Football is here, Tra-la, Tra-la!

It’s finally football season, and everything got underway last night with a handful of games. NC State has the worst offense I’ve ever seen, the MAC looks absolutely horrendous, and Oregon State embarrassed themselves last night with a loss to Stanford. There are my thoughts on last night’s games in a nutshell.

This weekend, all of the real stuff gets going, and the biggest local game is Ole Miss vs. Memphis. For some reason, the edge seems to be off of this game this year. As of yet, the trash-talking is way off of the last couple of years’ pace, and I’m not really sure why. As for the game itself, I expect Ole Miss to want to make a statement. In my eyes, the Tigers only have one real advantage in this game, and it is their receivers against Ole Miss’s defensive backs. However, I don’t know if Arkelon Hall can get it to them, I don’t know if the Tigers can run the ball, and I don’t think the Tigers will be able to stop Ole Miss’s offense, which should be much, much better this year. Conventional thoughts from Ole Miss are that Jevan Snead will throw the ball a lot, because QB and WR are the Rebels’ biggest strengths. I expect, though, that Houston Nutt will run it a lot and try and test Memphis’s run defense, which was 103rd in the nation last year, giving up 202 yards per game. Ole Miss will be fired up, the game is being played in Oxford, and despite the fact that this game is always close, I think Ole Miss wins it pretty handily. Final Score: Ole Miss 34, Memphis 20

The biggest national game of the week is probably Alabama-Clemson, being played at the Georgia Dome. Alabama fans will probably make up the majority of the crowd. I like Nick Saban’s decision to start Julio Jones, because I think the best way to win and develop players is to put your best players on the field, regardless of how old they are. The Bama offense will be pretty good this year. Clemson’s offense is on a different level. They are loaded with NFL talent throughout the skill positions, with Cullen Harper at QB and CJ Spiller and James Davis at RB. I just don’t think Bama has the horses yet to run with Clemson, but I give a big coaching edge to Nick Saban. In my opinion the two best freshmen in the country, Julio and Da’Quan Bowers, a defensive end, are playing in this game. Final Score: Clemson 31, Bama 21

For some reason, Mississippi State is playing at Louisiana Tech this week. For some reason, Sylvester Croom is taking his team down the day of the game. The last couple of seasons, the Bullies have been horrible in week 1, losing by a combined 60-0 score to LSU and South Carolina. Louisiana Tech is actually decent, which begs the question again–why do you play this game at Ruston? It makes no sense. All of this being said, though, an SEC team should beat Louisiana Tech in any situation. I said the same thing last year when Bama lost to Louisiana-Monroe. Final Score: Miss. St. 24, LA Tech 20

Tennessee travels out across the country to play UCLA on Monday night. Normally, I wouldn’t know how to pick this game, because traditionally it is tough to travel out to the West coast, especially the first week (just ask Tennessee’s team last year). UCLA is down to their third string QB Kevin Craft, who last year was playing for Mt. San Antonio Community College. I think Tennessee has the potential to be a really surprising team this year…as long as Phil Fulmer lets Dave Clawson run the offense. This game could be interesting, but Tennessee just has too much in the end. Final Score: Tennessee 30, UCLA 17.

Enjoy the action this weekend, be safe, and I’ll see you at Calhoun’s for some football.

Tuesday Ramblings

Thoughts I’ve had while trying to figure out why Vanderbilt Football Recruiting Director is not one of the jobs featured on the new game show “America’s Toughest Jobs”

In this week’s ramblings, MTR has decided to do some college football predictions.

We’ll start with the Memphis Tigers who I have going 8-4 overall and 6-2 in CUSA. Another bowl season for the Tigers, but not an AutoZone Liberty Bowl appearance.

Meanwhile, in the SEC

East

1. Georgia 11-1(7-1) Division Champions thanks to head-to-head win over Florida
2. Florida 11-1(7-1)
3. Tennessee 8-4(5-3)
4. South Carolina 6-6(3-5)
5. Kentucky 4-8(1-7)
6. Vanderbilt 2-10(0-8)

West

1. Auburn 9-3(6-2) Division Champs based on head-to-head win over LSU
2. LSU 10-2(6-2)
3. Alabama 8-4(5-3)
4. Ole Miss 7-5(4-4)
5. Mississippi State 6-6(3-5)
6. Arkansas 4-8(1-7)

SEC Championship game: Georgia over Auburn

Some other predictions:

-Ohio State running back Beanie Wells beats out Tim Tebow, Chase Daniel, and Knowshon Moreno for the Heisman.

-Georgia beats Oklahoma in the BCS Title Game January 8 in Miami, giving the SEC three straight titles.

-Three SEC East coaches step down at season’s end: Bobby Johnson, Steve Spurrier and Rich Brooks

-Notre Dame bounces back to win at least eight games

-Ole Miss and East Carolina meet in the AutoZone Liberty Bowl

-My lock of the week pick wins at least 75% of the time.(Get my picks, including the lock of the week, here every Thursday)

That’s all for this week, enjoy the kickoff of the college football season. I’m looking forward to it and I’m sure you are also. It should be a lot of fun as usual.

Sunday on the Couch!

The Olympics are over.  Thank goodness football starts this week.  For how much we’ve had to talk about the last few weeks, it would suck to have nothing for the next three.  Great timing IOC.  What an Olympiad it was.  Here are my top five stories:  1. Men’s Volleyball Gold and Coach Hugh McCutcheon’s Month. 2. Usain Bolt’s shattering of records. 3. Michael Phelps Gold Rush. 4. Women’s Beach Volleyball Dominance. 5. Men’s and Women’s Basketball Dominance.

The closing ceremonies were spectacular.  With all of the problems behind the scenes at the Olympics, it was nice to not have to see any of them during the television coverage.  All we did learn was that the venues were state of the art, and the productions were first class.  The scenes from the closing ceremony was spectacular, and who wouldn’t want to get one of the bikes to ride around in?

 

During the closing ceremonies, the flag was passed from Beijing to London.  To mark the passing of the games, a bus symbolizing London was wheeled around the stadium.  It wasn’t just any bus.  It opened up into a stage for musical performances. 

I was just wondering what will happen if the bid is accepted for Birmingham, Alabama, in 2020.  What would represent Birmingham in the closing ceremonies?

Seriously, Birmingham hosting the Olympics is just flat out comical.  Whoever came up with that proposal is certainly running for office.  Good luck getting voters to believe that possibility. 

Sportsline.com came up with a bracket for the hottest American Olympian.  I don’t have any complaints other than Amanda Beard getting a bye in round one and beating Misty May.  Here are the results:

Hottest American Olympian
First round	Quarterfinals	Semifinals	Finals
1 Jennie Finch BYE	1 Jennie Finch 8 Logan Tom	1 Jennie Finch 4 Amanda Beard	1 Jennie Finch 11 Alicia Sacramone
8 Logan Tom 9 Hope Solo
5 Sue Bird 12 Misty May-Treanor	4 Amanda Beard 12 Misty May-Treanor
4 Amanda Beard BYE
6 Kerri Walsh 11 Alicia Sacramone	3 Candace Parker 11 Alicia Sacramone	11 Alicia Sacramone 2 Heather Mitts
3 Candace Parker BYE
7 Nastia Liukin 10 Natalie Coughlin	2 Heather Mitts 7 Nastia Liukin
2 Heather Mitts BYE

I agree with the winner……

    

Most of the time the website for TMZ is dirt (Except for the Dish- see below).  But give tmz.com credit for their feature this week on the best butt’s of the Olympics.  I give you some of the best:

       

I would be remiss if I didn’t give my #1 on the list, Misty May, a little more than one shot.  Here are the best of Misty.

     

Misty (born July 30, 1977) has won more tournaments than any other female player with 103 career wins. She has two brothers, Brack and Scott, and her first cousin is tennis player, Taylor Dent. She is a fan of, and friends with, basketball star Jason Kidd. The tattoo of a roman numeral five on her lower back is a tribute to Kidd, who wore #5 on his jersey for most of his career. Misty appeared on NBC‘s game show Identity on April 6, 2007. She posed as “Born In 1977.”

Most women’s career tournament victories: 103

Most women’s career earnings: $1,751,408

Most women’s international career wins: 38

I have to be honest- I didn’t watch any of the Little League World Series.  Yes, it was intentional.  The highlights I saw the last couple of weeks reassured me that it the right thing to do.  These kids look ridiculous.  With their hats on crooked, their pants too baggy, their protective armor, their eye black, and their attitudes, it’s embarrassing to see what has happened to the pure old game of baseball.  Sure you can blame the big leaguers, but I blame ESPN solely for trying to make these kids stars and putting them in a spotlight that they shouldn’t be a part of.  It’s awful to see these children exploited and acting like imbeciles.  Act like you’re a kid playing baseball!  And don’t think ESPN is the only one to blame.  Some parents need to take a look at themselves!  Plus, the game sucks.  How about putting the fence at a respectable distance?  That’s right- ESPN loves the homerun.  Thanks ESPN for ruining little league baseball.

Whatever happened to Haley Joel Osment?  Remember the kid from Sixth Sense and Forrest Gump?  He’s now 20 years old and hasn’t been in a decent movie since 1999.  Osment received injuries, including a broken shoulder when his car struck a mailbox and overturned near his home on July 20, 2006. On October 19, 2006 Osment pleaded no contest to one count each of misdemeanor driving under the influence of alcohol, and possession of marijuana while driving. He was sentenced to three years probation, 60 hours in an alcohol rehabilitation and education program, a fine of $1500, and a minimum requirement of 26 Alcoholics Anonymous meetings over a six-month period. He currently attends New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.

THE DISH

Beard dating Phelps? ‘Ew, no!’ Ree Hines (MSNBC)- Olympic swimmer and medal machine Michael Phelps may have what it takes to win over America’s hearts, but he’s just not good enough for former women’s breaststroke champ Amanda Beard. Rumors of romance between the athletes began to circulate earlier this week, and while the record-breaker simply denied them, Amanda took to the airwaves on a radio show and made it clear that she found idea of dating the golden boy repulsive.  When asked if she ever kissed or held hands with Phelps, she responded, “Ew, No! That’s so nasty.”   She told the radio hosts, “C’mon, I have really good taste. He’s not really my type, personally. I go for a little bit different-looking guys.”

Phelps? J.Lo in training too Courtney Hazlett (MSNBC)- Poor Jennifer Lopez. The new mom is training for a triathlon, but everyone is too busy watching the Olympics to notice. Lopez, who appeared on “Good Morning America” Aug. 18 to discuss her preparations for the Malibu Triathlon, was overheard saying after the segment that she “couldn’t understand why everyone is talking about that swimmer,” according to a GMA source. “She couldn’t come up with Michael Phelps’ name, and then she yammered on about how she was the one training for a triathlon just six months after giving birth, and how that was the big story right now, not ‘the swimmer.’ ”

After 8 gold medals in Beijing, huge sponsor deals likely for Michael Phelps HEIDI EVANS (DAILY NEWS)- Clary/Getty Michael Phelps is all smiles after winning his 8th gold medal – which should lead to a big pay day from sponsors. Michael Phelps‘ eight gold medals could be worth eight figures in endorsements and earnings, experts say. “If he’s handled properly over the next four years, he should generate in excess of $40 million,” said Marc Ganis, president of Sportscorp Ltd. A $1 million memoir is already being peddled to publishers, according to reports. Howard Freeman, president and CEO of New Jersey-based marketing firm Promo 1, said: “Phelps will reap the biggest financial reward from water since ‘Jaws.'”

Chad Johnson says he can beat Phelps Mike Florio (PFT.com)- Chad Johnson said on ESPN’s Pardon the Interruption  that he could beat Olympic swimming stud Michael Phelps. “The problem with Michael Phelps is there’s no competition where he is,” Johnson said.  “Now if he came to where I’m from, which is the inner city, Liberty City [in Miami], I was the three-time Charles Hadley Pool champ. . . .  I know a couple people who could beat Michael Phelps right now.  Seriously, I’m telling you.  And I’m one of them.”

Fantasy football costly to employers CHICAGO, Aug. 18 (UPI) — Fantasy football will cost U.S. employers $9.2 billion in lost work time this season, a private research group said. Business researchers Challenger, Gray & Christmas said the 17-week NFL schedule will subtract 1.19 hours of productivity per week from about 17 million Americans who participate. Using salaries information supplied by the Fantasy Sports Association, the average fantasy footballer earns $80,000 per year with 70 percent of the participants earning between $50,000 and $149,000. That amounts to an average loss of $45.22 per week per player, Challenger, Gray & Christmas said.

Forbes orders second printing of Saban issue Forbes magazine has ordered a second printing of its Sept. 1 issue featuring University of Alabama head football coach Nick Saban on the cover, the first time in more than a decade that the magazine has ordered a second printing of an issue in anticipation of higher sales. The magazine is printing 107,500 extra copies, more than doubling Forbes’ usual run of 90,000 copies for retail distribution. Most of the second printings will be sold in the southeastern U.S. The cover story profiles Saban as “The Most Powerful Coach in Sports.” “Demand for the issue has been so high that stores have sold out of Forbes magazines within minutes,” the magazine said in a press release. — Tuscaloosa News

Slamball lands TV deal with CBS, Versus CBS has inked a deal to telecast the SlamBall championship title game in November. Versus will carry eight SlamBall games on Sundays starting Aug. 31. Owners plan to roll out a full-fledged SlamBall league in 2009 across eight U.S. cities. Hyped as the first-ever “team action sport,” SlamBall mixes elements from basketball, football, hockey, soccer and gymnastics. Former Philadelphia 76ers president and part owner Pat Croce serves as SlamBall’s commissioner. Amare Stoudamire will be an analyst for CBS— Variety

Elvis Maid has Tell-Some Book on the King Nancy Rooks, a former Graceland cook, was set up at a souvenir shop table at the Candlelight Vigil, to sell her book, Elvis’ Maid Remembers. “He ate breakfast at 5 o’clock in the afternoon, but then he’d eat dinner at 1 o’clock at night,” she said. “We always had a meat loaf cooked, just in case he wanted it. If he didn’t want meat loaf, then we knew to give him roast beef. He also liked soul food.”

Love Hewitt wishes she’d been nude more Courtney Hazlett- Jennifer Love Hewitt was fired up about those unflattering bikini images that circulated last winter, but since then, she’s certainly taken advantage of every press opportunity to talk about her body. “I wish I had been nude from the time I was 12 until I was 28. I looked great!” Love Hewitt told Health magazine. “I want to tell all young girls to walk around in bikinis all summer — and enjoy it. I want to tell them to never, ever feel bad about anything, because there will be that one day in your 20s when you’ll eat a hamburger and actually see the hamburger on the side of your leg.”

Kanye Digging on Scarlett If a recent blog update is any indication, Kanye West has a huge crush on Scarlett Johansson. The rapper-producer posted a six-page entry titled “MY FAVORITE WHITE GIRL!!!!!!!” featuring over 100 photos of the actress.

 

Birthdays celebrated this past week: Christian Slater (39), Dennis Leary (51), Ed Norton (39), Martin Mull (65), Robert Redford (71- LEATHER FACE!), Bill Clinton (62), John Stamos (45), Matthew Perry (39), Mary Jo Fernandez (37), Willie Shoemaker (77), Rich Brooks (67), Al Roker (54), Connie Chung (62), Isaac Hayes (66), Robert Plant (60), Count Basie (104), Kenny Rogers (70), Wilt Chamberlain (72), Carl Yastrzemski (74), Gene Kelly (96), Jay Mohr (38), Cal Ripken (48), Dave Chappelle (35), Reggie Miller (43)

         

Pictured Left to Right (1^st Row): Elayne Boosler (56- used to have a crush on her for some reason!), Malcolm Jamal Warner (38- THEO!), Patrick Swayze (56- nice mullet), Kyra Sedgwick (43- better mullet than Swayze), Peter Gallagher (52- Best Eyebrow in the Business), Hayden Panettiere (19- The Cheerleader! Love to see her work at Saucer), Kim Cattrall (52- Hall of Fame Cougar), Barbara Eden (78- 1^st Ballot Hall of Fame Cougar), Rick Springfield (59)

   

There’s plenty happening in the next few months in Tunica.  For a complete list of events and attractions in Tunica, Mississippi, click on the link below.  Get easy access to the casino’s, golf courses, and all other entertainment.

http://www.tunicamiss.com/ 

Here’s a sneak peak of what’s coming up in Tunica:

August 29	Trace Adkins	Horseshoe	800-303-7463
August 29	Davy Jones	Gold Strike	888-245-7829
September 6	Peter Frampton	Horseshoe	800-303-7463
September 6	Rodney Carrington	Sam’s Town	800-456-0711
September 12	Chubby Checker & The Wildcats	Sam’s Town	800-456-0711
September 13	Ron White	Harrah’s	901-525-1515
September 27	The Allman Brothers Band	Horseshoe	800-303-7463
October 4	Montgomery Gentry	Horseshoe	800-303-7463
October 11	Lisa Lampanelli	Sam’s Town	800-456-0711
October 18	Air Supply	Sam’s Town	800-456-0711
October 18	Willie Nelson	Horseshoe	800-303-7463
November 7	Anita Baker	Horseshoe	800-303-7463
November 8	Tracy Lawrence	The Fitz	800-766-5825
November 8	Phil Vassar	Gold Strike	888-245-7829
December 13	Frank Caliendo	Sam’s Town	800-456-0711

Tune in to Mid-South Golfer the Radio show this Thursday from 3-4pm from Tunica National Golf and Tennis Club. The Sports Bar follows from 4-6pm.  Plus, sign up for Thursday’s three person scramble and get your team qualified for the Tournament of Champions brought to you by the good folks at Fitzgerald’s Casino.

 

For more information, call 866-TEE-OFF1 or go online at www.tunicanational.com.  See you there. 

Talk to y’all this week.

In honor of the Olympics…

Tuesday Ramblings

Thoughts I’ve had while watching Usain Bolt run-very quick thoughts.

The mayors of most American cities concern themselves with things like crime and budgets, but not in Las Vegas. In a sign that the city has too much money, the mayor of Vegas wants to build a football stadium to try and get the Super Bowl and all Monday night football games. Really? That city has way too much money if this is all the mayor has to think about.

According to our man Mike Florio and profootballtalk.com, Chad Johnson has begun the process of legally changing his last name to Ocho-Cinco. That seems like someone getting hammered and getting a stupid tattoo that they later regret. I wonder if Chad will think it was a good idea to change his name when he’s Ocho-Cinco years old?

Speaking of getting hammered, Charles Barkley sure seems to enjoy him some Patron tequila

Makes me want to throw up just watching it.

If you watched Michael Phelps’ miraculous comeback win in the 100-meter butterfly race, you were probably like me and thought he lost even after watching the replay numerous times. Well, Sports Illustrated has a great series of pictures that show the finish. Absolutely amazing!

How about the Olympics? I still can’t get enough. Whether it’s the unbelievably dominating performances of Phelps, Usain Bolt, Misty May and Keri Walsh, or the U.S. basketball teams, or the performances by Nastia Liukin and Shawn Johnson of the U.S. Gymnastics team, it’s just been fun to watch. I still can’t believe I have watched as much as I have.

If there is one thing I’d like removed from the Olympics, it is the pommel horse event in men’s gymnastics. It is such a dumb, boring event I can’t stand it. There should be a simple rule when determining if something can be a gymnastics event-if it’s impossible to do a flip during the routine, it should not be an event, period.

I’m extremely happy to see the Cubs playing so well, but as I’ve learned by being a Cubs fan my whole life, I am cautiously optimistic about the rest of the season and the post season. What is really impressive about this team is that they have the best record in the league and have done it without any real candidate for MVP. At this time of year, when the discussions begin about post season awards, no Cubs player is in the MVP discussion at all. Although you could make a case for four or five guys for team MVP I think that would be Alfonso Soriano, but he’s missed eight weeks of the season, so he won’t get much consideration for NL MVP.

Finally, last Friday was the Elvis vigil and I was there for the third straight year. The rain throughout the day hurt the crowd so there wasn’t nearly as many people there as usual, but MTR, SOTC(Sunday on the Couch) and friends still had a great time and we got to go up through the line to the grave site. Here are some pictures from the night.

That’s it for this week.

Sunday on the Couch!

I’m a day late with the blog, because I can’t turn off the Olympics!  Fine, I’ll admit it.  I was wrong last week.  The Olympics have been great to watch.  Michael Phelps was amazing, his mom was hysterical, the Chinese gymnastic “Dream Team” might be the best ever, USA’s beach volleyball girls are unstoppable (plus, the cameramen have been great on their signal shots!), Dara Torres was a fun story, Bela Karolyi is insane, the gymnastics and boxing judges suck, men’s volleyball is incredibly powerful, Pete Pranica keeps saying clean and jerk and snatch, Marc Gasol plays physical, USA baseball needs to just start beaning everyone, golf shouldn’t be part of future games, neither should tennis, thank goodness Jim Nantz isn’t there, the venues have been spectacular and maybe the best ever from architecture to amenities, and there haven’t been too many fluff stories on NBC.  I have enjoyed the games and I’ll be upset when they go.  Here’s to Birmingham having their bid accepted in 2020!

 

Here are my top 10 events that I couldn’t even think of participating in: (10) Any run over 400 meters, (9) Canoe/Kayak, (8)- Archery, (7) Triple jump, (6) Equestrian, (5) High Jump, (4) Pole Vault, (3) Marathon, (2) Triathlon, (1) Gymnastics (ANY apparatus event) 

 

One sport idea for future Olympics- synchronized pole vaulting!

 

An update on the SEC post-media days arrests and suspensions: Georgia (4), Kentucky (2), Mississippi State (2), Arkansas (2), Alabama (1), Tennessee (1- Fulmer subpoena)

 

Tom Glavine is going to see Dr. Andrews.  His career is over!  I’ve never heard of the good doctor not cutting on anyone!

 

When did the WNBA season end?

 

It’s time for Vince Young to get better, although a few weapons would help.

 

For a crappy quarterback, Kyle Orton has been named a starter 13 times as a member of the Bears, including twice this week!

 

The Dish

Gasol, Calderon defend controversial photo- The Associated Press- Players on Spain’s Olympic basketball team defended a photo in an ad showing the players using their fingers to apparently make their eyes look more Chinese. “It was something like supposed to be funny or something but never offensive in any way,” Spain’s Pau Gasol said. Gasol said it was “absurd” people were calling the gesture racist. “We have great respect for the far East and its people, some of my best friends in Toronto are originally Chinese,” Calderon wrote. “Whoever wants to interpret it differently is completely confusing it.”  Did he actually use the old, “Some of my best friends are Chinese,” line??

Chad Might Legally Change Name to ‘Ocho Cinco’– According to Michael David Smith at PFT, Chad Johnson is going to make everyone remember him and his number 85 forever. He is trying to legally change his name to “Ocho Cinco”. Johnson has taken the first steps in the state of Florida toward legally changing his last name to Ocho Cinco. If Johnson follows through on this, his actual, legal name will be Chad Ocho Cinco, and the NFL would then allow him to put his new last name on the back of his jersey

Tom Coughlin Sex Tape?- TMZ- NY Giants football coach Tom Coughlin is working with the FBI to catch a guy blackmailing him over made-up sex tales! According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Herbert Simpson allegedly threatened to make Coughlin’s life “a living hell by doing something to his family” if he wasn’t paid $30,000 to keep a sex scandal out of the headlines — problem is, the sex scandal never happened. Simpson wrote letters to Coughlin, pretending to be women who hooked up with the coach while he was on the road in Philidelphia. But Coughlin, who obviously knew the sexcapade accusations were BS, alerted the feds — who busted Simpson. If convicted, Simpson faces up to two years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Penelope Cruz is UGLY!- Contrary to popular opinion, Penelope Cruz is no hottie. At least that’s what the actress had to say when she spoke to Parade. “I don’t think I am beautiful,” she confessed. “I can look good, and I can look ugly.”

She must save the ugly for her off-hours.

Win Carrie Underwood’s Shirt!!  Heck Yes!- Keith Urban will host the “You Look Good in My Old T-Shirt Auction,” an
online auction benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, starting Thursday, Aug. 14, at KeithUrbanAuction.com. Keith, along with several other stars, including LeAnn Rimes, Dolly Parton, Josh Turner and Carrie Underwood, will auction off autographed shirts that they have worn. The auction will offer fans the chance to not only win a completely unique and personal commemorative item from a favorite artist, but also contribute to a worthy cause. Proceeds will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Anyone want to date Jen Aniston?– It’s always interesting to consider how celebrity-relationship news leaks. Often, it’s a photo that does the talking. But in the case of Jennifer Aniston and John Mayer’s recent break-up, it was Aniston’s camp that caused the leak. “I got a call from someone very, very close to Jen over the weekend, asking if I knew anyone who might want to go out on a date with her,” says one industry insider. “They weren’t being very discreet about it. The news hadn’t even broken yet that she and John split. You’d think of all people, Jen Aniston wouldn’t need to use people in her camp as a dating service.” 

Diddy wants Gold!- Move over, Michael Phelps! Sean “Diddy” Combs is sure he could rack some gold medals of his own, if the Olympic committee would only add a new competition to the games. “Who could have sex the longest,” Diddy suggested to New York Magazine. “I think that’s an event I can do well in.” He claimed that was just a joke before adding, “Even though I am serious.”

Dr. Phil backstage is hotspot to pick up women!- Forget the Playboy Mansion, the “Dr. Phil” show may be the new hot spot! Some married guy has posted on Craigslist that the audience at Phil’s show is “full of hot ass.” The post reads like a sleazy play book: “Before you go into the studio everyone hangs out in a staging area for about an hour, you have plenty of time to start something. I would recommend having something fun and very ‘L.A.’ to do after the show to offer the girls to go to. Then get into drinks.” And it gets worse: “Most of the women are foreigners and/or a little ‘white trashy’ so they are probably very easy. All of them are for sure looking for something to do after the show.”

‘Porn inspector’ demands free videos The Associated Press- A man claiming to be a police detective tried to get an adult novelty shop to give him free X-rated videos, saying he wanted to make sure the performers weren’t underage. He made three tries within nine days last month and was turned down each time. The store manager called police after the third try. Authorities said that the man showed a badge and left a business card from the Longmont police “age verification unit.” Cmdr. Tim Lewis said there is no such unit. “It was inventive on his part, I’ll give him that,” Lewis said.

‘Office’ actor Robinson faces drug charges The Associated Press– Prosecutors have filed felony drug charges against Craig Phillip Robinson, an actor best known for his role as Darryl Philbin on NBC’s “The Office.” Police in Culver City arrested Robinson on June 29 on suspicion of possessing MDMA, also known as ecstasy, and methamphetamine. Los Angeles County prosecutors charged Robinson with two felony counts of drug possession and one count of being under the influence of illegal drugs.

Reporter in Georgia Gets Her Shot at the Big Time– TMZ- Georgian television reporter Tamara Urushadze was shot in the forearm– LIVE ON TELEVISION — and continued her report minutes later.

 

 

Don’t let your boss see this video — you’ll never be allowed to call in sick again!

 

 

Birthday this past week: Rebecca Gayheart (36), Ben Affleck (36), Pete Sampras (37), Dan Fogelberg (57), Danny Bonaduce (49), Alfred Hitchcock (109), Magic Johnson (49), Rusty Wallace (52), Sarah Brightman (47), Steve Martin (63), Debra Messing (40), Julia Child (96), James Taylor (55), James Cameron (54), Donnie Wahlberg (39), Jim Courier (38), Robert DeNiro (65)

 

    

Pictured (left to right): George Hamilton (69 and tan), Halle Berry (40), Don Ho (78), David Crosby (67), Belinda Carlisle (50!!- WOW),

Saturday, both Frank Gifford and Kathie Lee Gifford celebrated their birthday together.  How cute is that!  Frank turned 78, while his wife turned 55.

There’s plenty happening in the next few months in Tunica.  For a complete list of events and attractions in Tunica, Mississippi, click on the link below.  Get easy access to the casino’s, golf courses, and all other entertainment.

http://www.tunicamiss.com/ 

Here’s a sneak peak of what’s coming up in Tunica:

August 29	Trace Adkins	Horseshoe	800-303-7463
September 6	Peter Frampton	Horseshoe	800-303-7463
September 13	Ron White	Harrah’s	901-525-1515
September 27	The Allman Brothers Band	Horseshoe	800-303-7463
October 4	Montgomery Gentry	Horseshoe	800-303-7463
October 11	Lisa Lampanelli	Sam’s Town	800-456-0711
December 13	Frank Caliendo	Sam’s Town	800-456-0711

Tune in to Mid-South Golfer the Radio show this Thursday from 3-4pm from Tunica National Golf and Tennis Club. The Sports Bar follows from 4-6pm.  Plus, sign up for Thursday’s three person scramble and get your team qualified for the Tournament of Champions brought to you by the good folks at Fitzgerald’s Casino. 

 

For more information, call 866-TEE-OFF1 or go online at www.tunicanational.com.  See you there. 

Talk to y’all this week.

5th and 1

With the anxiety of the pending football season looming over my head, I really can’t focus on too much going on in the world of sports. I mean seriously, this time of year is awesome. NCAA football came out about two weeks ago (it’s stellar), Madden has just been released (it’s incredible), and the NFL is soon to come.

It’s like a domino pattern every year. Sure as the seasons change, these three things always fall in line, one building more hype for the next.

So with the football season coming, let me just say that I except my Philadelphia Eagles to make a push. Last year was a joke as far as I was concerned. Losing to Green Bay because of poor, wait, pitiful special teams was bad enough, then we get picked apart by Jason Campbell?! Only to have McNabb throw an incomplete pass to LJ Smith on the one?! Heartbreaking!

But this year will be different. The Giants of New Jersey (they have no offices nor stadium in New York. At least the Jets have management there) have had some issues already with their best wide receiver, and one of the best in the game, Plaxico Burress and have traded away Shockey. Losing Jeremy shouldn’t be a big deal considering Boss played pretty nasty in the Super Bowl.

The Skins have always been decent but I think they set themselves back a bit in the trade to get Taylor. I personally believe the d-end is a bit too past his prime to make a major impact, and didn’t they give up some decent picks to get him? With the talent coming out of college this year, what’s one more year Washington?

To be fair, Campbell played well for them last year and he still has Moss and Chris Cooley to pass to in a tight situation. Their offense should be potent, but not enough to make play-offs again.

As for the Cowboys, they appear to have everything. Their wide outs are all nasty, as is their defense, though the line is nothing compared to the Giants’.

My main thing with the criminals athletes for the Cowboys is that there are too many head cases. T.O. is liable to explode at any moment, and who knows when PacMan Jones might relapse? I don’t know if Romo will be able to keep whoever his current star crush is out of his mind long enough to keep it together in Dallas.

Which brings me to why I think the Eagles will make a push. (Note: push, not win the Super Bowl) They have speed, and lots of it. DeSean Jackson was a great pick up, as was Laws. Their linebacking core is young, and fierce. Bradley will be anchoring the middle this year, allowing Mr. Omar Gaither to the outside, his natural position. And who thinks they might have a top three group of corners in Lito, Brown, and Samuel? Not to mention there’s still Brian Dawkins looming at the safety position. Even if he lost a step he can still fire those boys up.

On offense there’s McNabb who, if healthy, is arguably one of the best QB’s in the game. Jackson should be making an impact early, which will hopefully open up some room for Reggie Brown and Kevin Curtis. The wide receivers are for sure a weak point.

But if they are the worst part of the team, the best has to be in the backfield. Brian Westbrook, without a question, is the best running back in the game. L.T. hasn’t been known to receive exceptionally well, and A.P. is still young, needs to be patient, and pick up his blocking. Not to mention the Eagles acquired Lorenzo Booker, a B.West protege, from Miami to lighten the load.

That being said, it all depends on whether or not that powder keg goes off in Texas…

Tuesday Ramblings

Thoughts I’ve had while awaiting this year’s Elvis Candlelight Vigil.

This Friday is the Elvis Vigil out at Graceland and I can’t wait. This will be my third straight vigil and after going to my first a couple years ago I said that as long as I live in Memphis, I will never miss another one. It is a great event just for people watching and talking to the people who come from all over the world for this event. If you haven’t ever been, you should come out.

In honor of Elvis week here in Memphis, I thought I’d post this video which, in a way, combines two of my favorite things this time of year, Elvis and Wrigley Field.

Going into these Olympics, I didn’t think I really cared a whole lot and figured I wouldn’t watch a whole lot of the games, but I have become hooked. I found myself watching badminton and women’s sculls over the weekend for goodness sake. The Michael Phelps story is one of the best stories I have seen. He is truly amazing and as dominant in his sport as any athlete ever. I really hope he gets the eight golds just so I can say I was able to see it.

Watching the US relay team win the other night over the trash talking French team was one of the most exciting moments I can remember. I actually threw a high five to a friend in celebration, which qualified as my first ever Olympic high five moment. I think the comeback win by Jason Lezak in the final leg made it one of the 10 best Olympic moments of all time. The image of Michael Phelps standing poolside screaming will be one of the Olympic images we’ll see forever.

Another one of my favorite things about these Olympics so far is the pictures of President Bush with Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh.

That one has been the most widely posted picture and it’s great, but the one that makes me laugh the most is this one:

I just think that’s funny.

On the subject of the Olympics and photos, what in the hell was the Spanish basketball team thinking by taking this picture.

That picture actually ran as part of a full-page ad in the Spanish sports daily, Marca. The ad was supposedly wishing the team good luck in Beijing, but looks like blatant racism. Who could have possibly thought this was a good idea and why isn’t there more of an uproar? What do you think would happen if the US team did this in an ad in USA Today?

One final Olympic related note, I’m not sure what to think of this video of with Bill Plaschke of the LA Times and Kevin Pang of the Chicago Tribune eating at a Chinese restaurant that only serves penis.

There are many possible jokes there, but I don’t know what to say.

Congratulations to Padraig Harrington on his second straight major championship. It’s good to see somebody step up and claim the spot as the world’s top golfer while Tiger is out. Phil, Vijay, Sergio and the rest couldn’t do it, but Padraig has shown he’s the guy. Speaking of Sergio, I will say it again, can we please quit hearing about him as the favorite going into these majors when he can’t win one. All we know for sure about Sergio is that if he does contend at a major he’ll find a way not to win. He’s regarded as such a great ball striker, and yet he puts a ball in the water on #16 in the final round when he’s tied for the lead. Until he proves he can win a major, I don’t want to hear about Sergio as a favorite.

Finally, I went to see “Pineapple Express” over the weekend and I “high”ly recommend it(pun intended). If you like silly movies like “Knocked Up” and “Superbad” you will love this movie. I thought it was hilarious.

Have a good week, hope to see you at the vigil Friday night.

Sunday on the Couch!

What a sad weekend on the couch.  Memphis lost a legend in Isaac Hayes.  The 65 year old was found dead in his home on Sunday.  Hayes will always be remebered thanks to his soulful music, and his baritone voice which provided a major influence throughout the decades. His work contributed to the evolution of disco, rap, house music and modern R&B. He was honored when inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002. His voice will live with us forever.

 

  

“The car, the voice, the man — they all came together in some perfect embodiment of cool that we are unlikely to see again very many times in our lifetime.” -Gael Fashingbauer Cooper (MSNBC)

 

It was also sad this weekend to hear of the passing of Bernie Mac.  As co-star and friend George Clooney said to People Magazine, “The world just got a little less funny.”

 

Mac was very humorous, very flashy, but always very classy.  He will also be missed.

 

The Olympics are underway.  It was certainly a glamorous opening ceremony.  The fireworks sure brought the smog back quickly.  It sure would be nice to see any basketball!  Team handball is fun to watch and all, but…..  I’m already sick of gymnastics, boxing, and swimming!  I’d like to see Grizzlies center Marc Gasol play a little basketball.  USA plays Spain Saturday at 10:15pm.  In his first outing against Greece, Gasol had 7 points and 4 rebounds (3-offensive) in 19 minutes.

 

 

It would be a great medal stand to see these two this week! GO USA!

 

By the way, you can catch the TV Voice of the Memphis Grizzlies, Pete Pranica, during the Olympic coverage.  Monday at noon, Tuesday at 1pm, and Wednesday at 11:30am, and Friday at noon, he’ll be on MSNBC, broadcasting men’s weightlifting.  Thursday at 10am on USA, Pete brings us women’s fencing.  Congrats Pete and keep up the good work.

 

There’s no guessing on who the PGA player of the year will be.  Here’s a hint- IT WON’T BE PHIL MICKELSON!

 

Do you know who loves ESPN’s Jon Miller?  ESPN’s JON MILLER!  We get it!  You took Spanish in school.  However, we don’t care.  During the Cubs and Cardinals game, I couldn’t understand which Molina was playing for the Cardinals and I didn’t know Aramis Ramirez was even playing.  It sounded like some guy the Cubs may have just signed that I had never heard of.  Just read the names like the public address announcers do.  You’re not impressing anyone with your school background.

 

Here’s the updated scorecard on post SEC Media Days arrests and suspensions after Georgia’s impressive week:  Georgia (4), Kentucky (2), Arkansas (2), Alabama (1), Tennessee (1- with an asterisk for Fulmer’s subpoena). 

 

Since Swig closed downtown, there has been a battle for the best bathroom in a bar in town (don’t know if any of you heard about this search).  Well, Dish at Cooper-Young has taken a big leap towards the top after installing hand dryers that actually work.  They are amazing.  I’ve only witnessed these dryers at one other place- a bar in New Orleans that will remain nameless!  Although hand dryers are one of the worst inventions ever, these new dryers will impress you.  Other bathrooms on the list that are fighting for the top spot- Blue Monkey (Downtown), Calhoun’s, Quetzal, Side Street.

 

Is the WNBA taking a break for the Olympics, or is the season over?  Or has it even started?  I was just wondering, if anyone could help.

 

I think Illeana Douglas is one of the most overrated actresses in Hollywood, and I’ve never felt comfortable even looking at her.  It’s amazing how many great rolls and movies she has appeared in!  She was in Goodfellas, Cape Fear, Quiz Show, To Die For, and was nominated twice for a television Emmy for her work in HBO’s Six Feet Under.

  

Here’s the rub- She dated Marty Scorsese.  Now it makes more sense.  Plus, maybe things aren’t great.  She’s tabbed to be the host of A&E’s Celebrity Garage Sale.

 

The Weekly Dish

 

USC wins case . . . against USC

LA Times- The University of Southern California and the University of South Carolina share the same initials. But they won’t be sharing a trademark logo. Not now that the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has ruled that Southern Cal has priority of use when it comes to the “SC” logo, including the interlocking version. South Carolina fired back with a counterclaim to cancel USC’s federal trademark registration for its interlocking “SC” logo.

 

Brett Favre Sells Out New Jersey

TMZ Staff– It looks like New York Jets QB Brett Favre is selling out of his new jersey! Sources tell TMZ that the QB continued his record breaking ways by selling 3200 jerseys in one day! That set a single day sales record and single day, single player jersey sales record. Favre’s Green Bay jersey is the top selling jersey of all time.

 

Jenna Jameson Teaches Pets About Safe Sex

TMZ- Rumors of an apparent Jenna Jameson pregnancy have been swirling for weeks now — so it’s interesting that she is tackling the issue of birth control — for pets! In a new PETA ad campaign to promote the spaying and neutering of cats and dogs, the porn princess will appear nude in bed, with the tagline, “Sometimes Too Much Sex Can Be a Bad Thing.” The always eloquent Jenna stated, “Until dogs and cats can go on the pill or wear condoms, we need to help them practice safe sex — by spaying and neutering.”

 

Katy Perry ties Beatles record for No. 1 single

MSNBC– Katy Perry’s “I Kissed a Girl” led Billboard’s Hot 100 singles chart for a seventh week, tying the Beatles to become the longest-running No. 1 in the rock era for the singer’s Capitol Records label. ARE YOU SERIOUS?

 

Roseanne lashes out at Toby Keith??

Roseanne Barr has a beef with country singer Toby Keith and fans who appreciate his music. In a mini-rant on her blog, devoid of any details, the comedian wrote, “Toby Keith makes Americans proud to be stupid and drunken racist monsters.”

 

TV Stars making more than athletes?

TV Guide reveals that “Two and a Half Men’s” Charlie Sheen is the highest-paid comedy star in primetime, and brings in $825,000 per episode ($18 million per season). Mariska Hargitay is the highest-paid actress in a drama, thanks to her $600,000 per episode salary for “Law & Order: SVU.” The complete list is in the Aug. 11 issue of TV Guide. Simon Cowell makes $50 million per year for “American Idol” and “America’s Got Talent.”

 

Saget Sticks Up for Olsen Twins

The comedian defended the tiny twins after they were toasted by comics roasting Saget for a Comedy Central special. During Bob’s roast, several comedians made crude and sexual jokes about the 22-year-old sisters. Saget was upset by the hits on the mini moguls, telling the NY Post, “Anybody who talks about my TV kids — that upsets me the most. I am very protective. I love them very, very much.” Catch the controversial roast when it airs August 17 on Comedy Central.

 

Elvis’ peacock jumpsuit sells for $300,000

MSNBC- Elvis Presley’s favorite performance costume, the peacock jumpsuit, sold for $300,000, making it the most expensive piece of Elvis memorabilia sold at auction. Presley paid $10,000 to have the outfit made by Los Angeles designer Bill Belew, who created all of The King’s stage wardrobe between 1968-1977. Elvis first wore the costume at the Forum in Los Angeles on May 11, 1974, and later for the cover of his album “Promised Land.” The previous record for an Elvis collectible is $295,000 for his 1956 Lincoln Continental Mark II.

 

BIRTHDAYS CELEBRATED THIS PAST WEEK: This week marks the best looking week for birthdays this year!

           

From left to right: Loni Anderson (63), Maureen McCormack (Marcia Marcia Marcia- 52), Tawny Kitaen (beat up Chuck Finley! 47), Ginger Spice (36), Soleil Moon Frye (Punky Brewster- have you seen her lately? 32), Stepfanie Kramer (Dee Dee McCall from TV’s Hunter– 52), Charlize Theron (33), Gillian Anderson (40), Melanie Griffith (Not hot now! 51), Whitney Houston (Not hot now! 45), Angie Harmon (36)

Others: Jeff Weinberger (?), Billy Bob Thornton (53), Jeff Gordon (37), Roger Clemens (46- or twice the age of his girlfriends), Neil Armstrong (78), Patrick Ewing (46), Lucille Ball (97), Dustin Hoffman (71), John Facenda (95), Mel Tillis (76), The Edge (47), Deion Sanders (41)

 

There’s plenty happening in the next few months in Tunica.  For a complete list of events and attractions in Tunica, Mississippi, click on the link below.  Get easy access to the casino’s, golf courses, and all other entertainment.

http://www.tunicamiss.com/ 

Here’s a sneak peak of what’s coming up in Tunica:

August 15 – 16	Ricky Lynn Gregg	Bally’s	800-382-2559
August 15 – 16	Ronnie McDowell/Jordanaires	Horseshoe	800-303-7463
August 15	The Temptations	Gold Strike	888-245-7829
August 16	Kool & The Gang	Harrah’s	901-525-1515
August 16	Stephanie Mills	Harrah’s	901-525-1515
August 16	Bang! Fighting Championships	Sam’s Town	800-456-0711
August 29	Trace Adkins	Horseshoe	800-303-7463
September 6	Peter Frampton	Horseshoe	800-303-7463
September 13	Ron White	Harrah’s	901-525-1515
September 27	The Allman Brothers Band	Horseshoe	800-303-7463
October 4	Montgomery Gentry	Horseshoe	800-303-7463
October 11	Lisa Lampanelli	Sam’s Town	800-456-0711
December 13	Frank Caliendo	Sam’s Town	800-456-0711

I certainly recommend eating at Paula Dean’s sometime soon.  It’ll be one of the best meals you’ll ever have.  Of course, you can get the buffet at Harrah’s Casino.

   

Speaking of Harrah’s, Ron White will be appearing on September 13^th.  I have my tickets!  Do you have yours? 

Tune in to Mid-South Golfer the Radio show this Thursday from 3-4pm from Tunica National Golf and Tennis Club. The Sports Bar follows from 4-6pm.  Plus, sign up for Thursday’s three person scramble and get your team qualified for the Tournament of Champions brought to you by the good folks at Fitzgerald’s Casino. 

 

For more information, call 866-TEE-OFF1 or go online at www.tunicanational.com.  See you there. 

Talk to y’all this week.

Josh Smith Coming to Memphis?

It took a move like this to blast me back into the blogging scene, but i am back because this is big news.  Courtesy of my Morning Rush co-host Ron Tillery, here’s the scoop:

The Memphis Grizzlies have sent a contract offer worth $58 million to Atlanta Hawks restricted free agent Josh Smith today, according to multiple NBA sources.

As the only team left with significant room under the salary cap, the Griz have shifted out of a summer holding pattern and targeted the versatile 6-9, 235-pound forward.

Atlanta has seven days to match, per league rules, once Smith receives the offer sheet.

The Hawks have said they would match any contract offer to the 22-year-old Smith, but are on the hook next season with big contracts for Mike Bibby and Joe Johnson.

Smith’s numbers have increased in each of his four NBA seasons since Atlanta made him a first-round pick out of high school in 2004. He averaged 17.2 points, 8.2 rebounds and 2.8 blocks last season, helping the Hawks make the playoffs.

Now THAT is what I’m talking about! Anyone who has listened to the Morning Rush knows that my number one hope for the Grizzlies this offseason was that they would use their cap money to make a run at Josh Smith.  It’s not often you can acquire a 22-year-old whose numbers have been steadily on the rise, and who is already an elite defender (2 steals and 3 blocks per game last season).  Put him in a lineup with Conley, Mayo, and Gay and you’ve got an extraordinarily athletic group that’s capable of great things on both sides of the ball.  And they’d all be 22 or younger!

Obviously the Hawks hold the cards now.  They have a week to match, and they probably will do just that.  But their organization has been in turmoil for some time…they’ve had lots of time to extend Smith’s contract and they’ve steadfastly refused to pay more than 9 million a year.  Now the Griz have offered him around 12 million a year – that might be a bit more than they can swallow.  It’s still likely they’ll match, but it’s not a slam dunk, especially given the acrimony between Smith and the Hawks front office.

Kudos to Chris Wallace for engineering the move and to Michael Heisley for authorizing the spending.  If nothing else, this can put to rest the morons who keep claiming that Heisley is unwilling to spend money.  He has in the past and will in the future if the situation calls for it, and this situation called for it.

And major props to Ron for scooping EVERYONE on this story.  As I write, no one else has it yet.  Big scoop for Ron and the CA.