Bulletin 2:1–2.1962 Zaphenath-Paneah. P. 1353 in The New Bible Dictionary, ed. J.D. Douglas. London: InterVarsity.1975 Ramesside Inscriptions 1. Oxford, England: Blackwell.1979 The Family of Urhiya and Yupa, High Stewards of the Ramesseum: Part II, The Family Relationship. Pp. 71–74 in Glimpses of Ancient Egypt, Studies in Honour of H.W. Fairman, eds. J. Ruffle, G.A. Gaballa and K.A. Kitchen. Warminster, England: Aris & Phillips. 1980 Zaphenath-Paneah. P. 1673 in The Illustrated Bible Dictionary 3. Leicester, England: InterVarsity.1983 Pharaoh Triumphant, Life and Times of Ramesses II. Warminster, England: Aris & Phillips.1986 Third Intermediate Period in Egypt 1100–650 BC, second ed. Warminster, England: Aris & Phillips.1990 Early Canaanites in Rio de Janeiro and a ‘Corrupt’ Ramesside Land-Sale. Pp. 635–45 in Studies in Egyptology Presented to Miriam Lichtheim 2, ed. S. Israelit-Groll. Jerusalem: Magnes.1991 Non-Egyptians Recorded on Middle-Kingdom Stelae in Rio de Janeiro. Pp. 87–90 in Middle Kingdom Studies, ed. S. Quirke. New Maiden, England: SIA.1993 Ramesside Inscriptions, Translations, 1. Oxford, England: Blackwell. 1993/1994 Ramesside Inscriptions, Notes and Comments, 1. Oxford: Blackwell. Forthcoming a Ramesside Inscriptions, Translations, 7.Forthcoming b Ramesside Inscriptions, Notes and Comments, 7.Kitchen, K.A., and Beltrão, M. de C.1991 Catalogue of the Egyptian Collection in the National Museum, Rio de Janeiro, 2 vols. Warminster, England: Aris & Phillips.Lacau, P.1906 Sarcophages antérieurs au Nouvel Empire 2. Cairo: Service des Antiquités.Leibovitch, J.1943 Une amulette égyptienne au nom de Putiphar. Annales du Service des Antiquités de l’Egypte 43:87–90.Lowle, D.A.1976 A Remarkable Family of Draughtesmen-Painters from Early Nineteenth-Dynasty Thebes. Oriens Antiquus 15:91–106 + figs 1–2, pls. I-II.Malek, J.1979 Topographical Bibliography2, 3/2.2. Oxford, England: Griffith Institute.Malek, J, and Quirke, S.1992 Memphis, 1991: Epigraphy. The Journal of Egyptian Archaeology 78:13–18.Martin, G.T.1971 Egyptian Administrative and Private-Name Seals. Oxford, England: Griffith Institute.Meek, T.J.1969 The Code of Hammurabi. Pp. 163–80 in Ancient Near Eastern Texts Relating to the Old Testament, third ed., ed. J.B. Pritchard. Princeton NJ: Princeton University Press.Meissner, B.1920 Babylonien und Assyrien 1. Heidelberg: Winter.1936 Warenpreise in Babylonien. Berlin: de Gruyter.Mendelsohn, I.1949 Slavery in the Ancient Near East. New York: Oxford University Press.Mieroop, M. van de1987 The Archive of Balmunamhe. Archiv für Orientforschung 34:1–29.Posener, G.1957 Les Asiatiques en Égypte sous les XIIe et XIIIe dynasties. Syria 34:145–63.Ranke, H.1910 Keilschriftliche Materialien zur altägyptischen Vokalisation. Berlin: Reimer.1935 Agyptische Personennamen 1. Hamburg: Augustin.Ruffle, J.1979 The Family of Urhiya and Yupa, High Stewards of the Ramesseum: Part I, The Monuments. Pp. 55–70 in Glimpses of Ancient Egypt, Studies in Honour of H. W. Fairman, eds. J. Ruffle, G.A. Gaballa and K.A. Kitchen. Warminster, England: Aris & Phillips.Schulman, A.R.1975 On the Egyptian Name of Joseph: A New Approach. Studien zur Altägyptischen Kultur 2:235–43.Sethe, K.1899 Das ägyptische Verbum 1. Leipzig: Hinrichs.Spiegelberg, W.1896 Rechnungen aus der Zeit Setis 1. Strasburg: Trübner.1904 Aegyptologische Randglossen zum Alien Testament. Strasburg: Schlesier & Schweikhardt.Steindorff, G.1889 Der Name Josephs Sapheneat-Pa’neach: Genesis Kapitel 41, 45. Zeitschrift für Aegyptische Sprache 27:41–42.1892 Weiteres zu Genesis 41, 45. Zeitschrift für Aegyptische Sprache 30:50–52.Vergote, J.1959 Joseph en Egypte. Louvain, Publications Universitaires.Ward, W.A.1982 Index of Egyptian Administrative and Religious Titles of The Middle Kingdom. Beirut: American University of Beirut.Please help ABR continue to post these freearticles by making a donation of any size today. Donate
The Manger and the Inn
This article was reproduced in theFall 2007 issue of Bible and Spade. Why would Joseph, “of the lineage of David,” in the city of his family’s origin have to seek shelter in an inn and be turned out into a stable? Recently this question was put to me here in Beirut. This paper presents an answer. In this brief study I will attempt to demonstrate that Jesus was born in a private home and that the “inn” of Luke 2:7 is best understood as the guest room of the family in whose house the birth took place. Recent studies have primarily focused on Luke’s theological interests.1 The concern here is the Palestinian cultural background of verses 6–7 which we understand to be traditional material. Indeed, a more precise analysis of that background is critical for both a clearer understanding of the original tradition as well as any interpretation of its use within the Lucan framework. The Palestinian background of the entire text (vv. 1–7) is clear and strong. Five striking Middle Eastern details mark the passage. First, the author reflects an accurate knowledge of Palestinian geography when he has the Holy Family “go up” from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Second, the custom of “swaddling” infants is a Palestinian village custom, which is observable as early as Ezekiel 16:4 and is still practiced today. Third, the extended family of David is referred to in the oriental fashion as a “house.” This is then amplified for the non-Middle Eastern reader with the fuller phrase, “house and lineage of David.” Fourth, a Davidic Christology informs the text. Finally, Bethlehem is given two names, “city of David” (which presupposes some knowledge of Old Testament history), and “Bethlehem.” Given the Palestinian nature of the material, we will attempt to examine the Middle Eastern cultural background of the story with care. The cultural assumptions of this text are particularly critical because the story comes to us through a long Church tradition. Most modern versions of that story follow a familiar pattern. The Holy Family arrives late in the night. The local inn has its “no vacancy” sign clearly displayed. The tired couple seeks alternatives and finds none. With no other option, wearied from their journey and desperate for any shelter because of the imminent delivery, they spend the night in a stable where the child is born. But the cornerstone of this popular pageantry is flatly denied in the text of Luke. Popular tradition affirms that the child was born the night the family arrived. But in 2:4 we are told that Mary and Joseph “went up” to Bethlehem. The verse assumes their arrival. Then in verse six we are told, “And while they were there, the days were fulfilled for her to be delivered.” Thus the text affirms a time lapse between the arrival in Bethlehem and the birth of Jesus. Mary “fulfilled her days” in Bethlehem.2 We can easily assume a few weeks have passed, perhaps even a language software
2011年3月17日星期四
1220 BC, arguing that “[t]he Yadin date of 1230 BC (Mycenaean wares near [the] end of Hazor) was based on [the work of Arne] Furumark (in [the]
ible (Douglas Petrovich, “Amenhotep II and the Historicity of the Exodus Pharaoh,” The Master’s Seminary Journal 17:1 [Spr 2006], 87). The low chronology’s current popularity among many Egyptologists may prove to be nothing more than a mere trend.9. Sharon Zuckerman, “Anatomy of a Destruction: Crisis Architecture, Termination Rituals and the Fall of Canaanite Hazor” Journal of Mediterranean Archaeology 20:1 (June 2007), 24.10. Amnon Ben-Tor, “The Fall of Canaanite Hazor—the ‘Who’ and ‘When’ Questions,” in Mediterranean Peoples in Transition (eds. Seymour Gitin, Amihai Mazar, and Ephraim Stern; Jerusalem: Israel Exploration Society, 1998), 465.11. Zuckerman, “Anatomy of a Destruction,” 24.12. Yadin, “Hazor,” in New Encyclopedia, 603; Amnon Ben-Tor and Maria Teresa Rubiato, “Excavating Hazor—Part Two: Did the Israelites Destroy the Canaanite City?” BAR 25:3 (May/June 1999), 22–39.13. Kitchen, “Hazor and Egypt,” 313.14. Yadin, “Hazor,” in New Encyclopedia, 603.15. Sharon Zuckerman, “Where is the Hazor Archive Buried?,” BAR 32:2 (Mar/Apr 2006), 37. Unlike the description in Joshua 11, the text of Judges 4 does not state that the Israelites burned—or even destroyed—Hazor, so neither Ben-Tor’s theory (Israelite destruction) nor Zuckerman’s theory (internal revolt) is at odds with the text, per se, if these two Israelite initiatives against Hazor were not one and the same event. However, certainly the burden of proof is upon Zuckerman to overturn the mound of evidence produced by Ben-Tor, which seems to make evident what the account in Judges 4 alludes to, though does not state explicitly. The fate of Hazor in the narrative of Judges 4 will be discussed in greater detail subsequently.16. Zuckerman, “Anatomy of a Destruction,” 25. Obviously one great weakness in Zuckerman’s dismissal of the conquest theory is that her argument is one derived completely from silence. It must be noted that only a minute fraction of Tel Hazor has been excavated, and thus the possibility of a mass-burial site cannot be overlooked, as well as that of skeletal remains existing only in areas as yet unexcavated. In a personal conversation between the present writer and Ben-Tor, the chief excavator ventured that 600 years would be needed to excavate the entire site. Moreover, clearly not all of Israel’s victories over Canaanite cities, which battles actually were fought by the divine “captain of the army of Yahweh” (Josh 5:14–15) both in the days of Joshua and well beyond, were won by conventional weaponry or included a direct, human assault on the city’s fortified defenses (e.g. Jericho [Josh 6], Ai [Josh 8], earlier Hazor [Josh 11], Bethel [Judg 1:23–25], and Jerusalem [2 Sam 5:6–9]). Thus Zuckerman’s expectation to find remnants of weapons allegedly used if the Israelites truly were the destroyers of Hazor, and to find them in the site’s scant few excavated areas, is presuppositionally flawed. Zuckerman also fails to explain why the lower class(es) would initiate an internal revolt that would lead to the irreparable devastation of their native city, which would have to be the case since Hazor was left uninhabited until the 11th century BC, forcing the revolters to evacuate and resettle in other cities throughout the Hula Valley such as Tel-Dan, as Zuckerman suggests. What motive could be strong enough to incite such a peasants’ revolt that would lead to complete, personal disenfranchisement?17. Hoffmeier, “What Is the Biblical Date?,” 245.18. Wood, “Rise and Fall,” 477.19. Hoffmeier, “What Is the Biblical Date?,” 244.20. In Amarna Letter (EA) 227, the ruler of Hazor, while writing to the Egyptian pharaoh, refers to himself as the “king of the city of Hazor,” a case unparalleled in all of the correspondence of the Canaanite cities mentioned in the el-Amarna archive. Furthermore, in EA 148, he is referred to the same way by the ruler of Tyre. Unfortunately, EA 227 is rather fragmentary, but in it the king of Hazor reassures pharaoh that he is safeguarding the cities of pharaoh until the Egyptian king’s arrival (The Amarna Letters, ed. William L. Moran [Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press, 1992], 289, 235). As Yadin writes, “This indicates no doubt that the King of Hazor’s rule embraced more than the city itself,” which “is further corroborated by the letters of the rulers of Tyre and Ashtaroth” (Yadin, The Head, 8). It should be no surprise that in Judges 4, Jabin is referred to four times as the “king of Canaan,” while only once is he called the “king of Hazor.” In fact, he is called the “king of Canaan, who ruled in Hazor” (Judg 4:2).21. Keil and Delitzsch seem to agree, writing that the purpose of Joshua is to show how the faithful covenant-God of Israel fulfilled the promise that he made to the patriarchs, and how the Canaanites were destroyed and their land was given to the tribes of Israel for a hereditary possession through the medium of Joshua (C. F. Keil and F. Delitzsch, “Joshua,” in Commentary of the Old Testament, vol. 2 [Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 1989], 15).22. Wood, “The Biblical Date: 1446,” 256.23. Yigael Yadin, Hazor: The Rediscovery of a Great Citadel of the Bible (New York: Random House, 1975), 255. Elsewhere, the former chief excavator at Hazor notes that the destruction of the final Canaanite city undoubtedly is the one “related in the Book of Joshua” (Yadin, “Hazor,” in New Encyclopedia, 603).24. Zuckerman, “Anatomy of a Destruction,” 25.25. Rodger C. Young, “When Did Solomon Die? ” JETS 46:4 (Dec 2003), 601, 602. For a development of the argument that the jubilee cycles support a date of 1446 BC for the exodus, see idem, “The Talmud’s Two Jubilees and their Relevance to the Date of the Exodus,” WTJ 68 (2006) 71–83; idem, “Ezekiel 40:1 As a Corrective for Seven
Wrong Ideas in Biblical Interpretation
Three Verifications of Thiele’s Date for the Beginning of the Divided Kingdom,” AUSS 45 (2007) 173–179.26. Petrovich, “Amenhotep II”, 84, footnote 15. This article evaluates the candidacy of Amenhotep II as the exodus-pharaoh by examining this pharaoh’s biography against what must be true of the exodus-pharaoh historically. The conclusion drawn is that Amenhotep II is the only pharaoh of either the 18th or 19th Dynasty who sufficiently meets the necessary biographical requirements. To date, no late-exodus advocate has attempted to challenge the evidence that was presented, or the conclusion that was drawn.27. The commencement of the conquest can be dated exactly. With the exodus datable to 1446 BC, the conquest automatically is dated to 1406 BC, because for “40 years the sons of Israel walked in the wilderness” before entering Canaan (Josh 5:6). Since the crossing of the Jordan River transpired on the 10th day of the first month, a date of 28 April 1406 BC is filanguage learning
Wrong Ideas in Biblical Interpretation
Three Verifications of Thiele’s Date for the Beginning of the Divided Kingdom,” AUSS 45 (2007) 173–179.26. Petrovich, “Amenhotep II”, 84, footnote 15. This article evaluates the candidacy of Amenhotep II as the exodus-pharaoh by examining this pharaoh’s biography against what must be true of the exodus-pharaoh historically. The conclusion drawn is that Amenhotep II is the only pharaoh of either the 18th or 19th Dynasty who sufficiently meets the necessary biographical requirements. To date, no late-exodus advocate has attempted to challenge the evidence that was presented, or the conclusion that was drawn.27. The commencement of the conquest can be dated exactly. With the exodus datable to 1446 BC, the conquest automatically is dated to 1406 BC, because for “40 years the sons of Israel walked in the wilderness” before entering Canaan (Josh 5:6). Since the crossing of the Jordan River transpired on the 10th day of the first month, a date of 28 April 1406 BC is filanguage learning
“Searching for Paul’s Shipwreck on Malta”
A Critique of the 700 Club’s February 26, 2010 Program
内容: Tags: munxar reef, bob cornuke, shipwreck, malta, acts 27, 700 club--> On Friday morning, February 26, 2010, on CBN’s 700 Club program, Chuck Holton submitted a report about a man who believes he found an “amazing Biblical discovery” on Malta. This nine-minute video segment featured Robert Cornuke presenting his theory about the location of the Apostle Paul’s shipwreck on the island of Malta.http://www.cbn.com/cbnnews/world/2010/February/Searching-for-Pauls-Shipwreck-on-Malta/Cornuke, in his persona as a “former Los Angeles crime scene investigator,” approached the account of the shipwreck of Paul in Acts 27 and 28 as a “crime scene.” As he read the Biblical text, he concluded there were four “clues” that needed to be found in order to solve the “crime.” He identified these as: (1) a bay with a beach; (2) a reef or sandbar where “two seas meet”; (3) a seafloor with a depth of 90 feet; and (4) a place the sailors would not have recognized. Cornuke concludes that the shipwreck occurred on the eastern shore of Malta, not on the northern side of the island as most scholars believe.Conuke’s theory and investigations, as presented in this news segment, were already set forth in his 2003 book entitled, The Lost Shipwreck of Paul (Bend, OR: Global Publishing Service). In the book, his view is that the Alexandrian grain ship containing the Apostle Paul and Dr. Luke was shipwrecked on the Munxar Reef on the island’s eastern end. Cornuke claims to have located, from among the local spear fishermen and divers, six anchor stocks which could have been from this shipwreck (cf. Acts 27:29, 40), four of which were located on the east side of the Munxar Reef in fifteen fathoms, or ninety feet of water (cf. Acts 27:28). He identifies the “place where two seas meet” (cf. Acts 27:41) as the Munxar Reef and the “bay with the beach” as St. Thomas Bay (cf. Acts 27:39). He concluded that neither the sea captain nor his crew would have recognized the eastern shoreline of the Maltese coast when it became light on the morning after they dropped anchor (cf. Acts 27:39). Unfortunately, Cornuke’s theory simply does not hold water.Experts and Computer ModelsCornuke consulted Graham Hutt, an expert on Mediterranean storms, and Hutt concluded that the ship would have been driven by the winds to the southeast quadrant of the island, and that the more likely place of the shipwreck was the Bay of St. Thomas.In the book, Cornuke described a visit to the Rescue Coordination Center of the Armed Forces of Malta (2003:184-193). Here he watched a computer model that plotted the possible course of a ship caught in a windstorm from Crete to Malta. The ship landed, after 14 days in a severe windstorm, in the St. Thomas Bay!The limitations of storm experts and computer models were well illustrated by the recent Nor’easter that hit the Northeast United States on Feb. 25-26, 2010. The storm was a prime example of what computer models and meteorologists could not predict. The meteorologists on television said that this “monster storm” defied all the computer models and did not behave as any of the meteorologists predicted it should!Bay with a beachThe beach in the St. Thomas Bay was identified as the “bay with the beach.” The earliest maps of Malta show that the Munxar Reef, at one time, was actually a series of small islands. Possibly in the first century AD, this location would have been a lengthy peninsula that has now eroded away. If that is the case, the sea captain, in all probability, would not have been able to see the low-lying beach of St. Thomas Bay from the area where the four anchor stocks were found and almost certainly, he would not have dared to sail his ship through the dangerous islands or peninsula to reach the beach! Thus, the Bay of St. Thomas could not be the beach that the captain saw or where the sailors and passengers swam to.Reef or Sandbar where the “two seas meet”Several times in the news segment the Munxar Reef is described as a “sandbar.” A careful examination of a geological map would have identified the reef as being made of “Middle Globigerina Limestone.” This soft limestone is rock not a sandbar.The identification of the “two seas meet” is based on two Greek words, “topos dithalasson”, that are translated different ways in different translations. Professor Mario Buhagiar, of the University of Malta, cautions that this term does not offer any real help because it can have several meanings and the way it is used in Acts 27:41, does not facilitate an interpretation. A place where two seas meet (Authorized and Revised versions) and a cross sea (Knox Version) are the normally accepted translations but any beach off a headland (Liddell and Scott) or an isthmus whose extremity is covered by the waves (Grimms and Thayer), as indeed most water channels, can qualify as the place where the boat grounded. The truth is that the Acts do not give us sufficient clues to help in the identification of the site (see link at bottom for full bibliography).Anchors at 90 feetMr. Cornuke interviewed people, primarily divers and spear fishermen, who claimed to have located four anchors on the south side of the Munxar Reef at 15 fathoms, or 90 feet of water. Two other anchors were allegedly found near the Munxar Reef in 10 meters (ca. 33 feet) of water. Cornuke implied in his book that these two anchors were the ones put in the skiff when the sailors tried to escape (Acts 27:30). These interviews are the author’s primary evidence for Paul’s shipwreck.Unfortunately only two actual anchor stocks can be examined. They are on display on the second floor of the Malta Maritime Museum in Vittoriosa. The other four, however, are not available for scholarly consideration. One of the anchor stocks was melted down, another is in a private collection, and two were allegedly sold on the antiquities market.Unfortunately the video clip of the anchors in the Malta Maritime Museum is very misleading. It shows 6 or 7 anchors on display, but only two are from the Munxar Reef. One of them, called “Tony’s anchor,” was one of the smallest of those on display. It measured about 3 feet, 8 inches in length and would be too small for the stern of an Alexandrian grain ship.On the other hand, Professor Mario Buhagiar examined the other anchor and gave a cautious analysis, “It could have belonged to a cargo ship, possibly a grain cargo ship, and possibly one from Alexandria” (2003: 183). He went on to conjecture, “This anchor stock would fit very well within the era of St. Paul” (2003: 184). Although this anchor could have been from an Alexandrian grain ship, suggesting that it was from Paul’s shipwreck certainly goes beyond the available evidence.Did not recognize the landIn the 1st century AD, the island of Malta was, in essence, the “Turn Right to Sicily” sign in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. Malta was the landmark for sailors sailing west from Crete who were about to turn north to Sicily.
language software
内容: Tags: munxar reef, bob cornuke, shipwreck, malta, acts 27, 700 club--> On Friday morning, February 26, 2010, on CBN’s 700 Club program, Chuck Holton submitted a report about a man who believes he found an “amazing Biblical discovery” on Malta. This nine-minute video segment featured Robert Cornuke presenting his theory about the location of the Apostle Paul’s shipwreck on the island of Malta.http://www.cbn.com/cbnnews/world/2010/February/Searching-for-Pauls-Shipwreck-on-Malta/Cornuke, in his persona as a “former Los Angeles crime scene investigator,” approached the account of the shipwreck of Paul in Acts 27 and 28 as a “crime scene.” As he read the Biblical text, he concluded there were four “clues” that needed to be found in order to solve the “crime.” He identified these as: (1) a bay with a beach; (2) a reef or sandbar where “two seas meet”; (3) a seafloor with a depth of 90 feet; and (4) a place the sailors would not have recognized. Cornuke concludes that the shipwreck occurred on the eastern shore of Malta, not on the northern side of the island as most scholars believe.Conuke’s theory and investigations, as presented in this news segment, were already set forth in his 2003 book entitled, The Lost Shipwreck of Paul (Bend, OR: Global Publishing Service). In the book, his view is that the Alexandrian grain ship containing the Apostle Paul and Dr. Luke was shipwrecked on the Munxar Reef on the island’s eastern end. Cornuke claims to have located, from among the local spear fishermen and divers, six anchor stocks which could have been from this shipwreck (cf. Acts 27:29, 40), four of which were located on the east side of the Munxar Reef in fifteen fathoms, or ninety feet of water (cf. Acts 27:28). He identifies the “place where two seas meet” (cf. Acts 27:41) as the Munxar Reef and the “bay with the beach” as St. Thomas Bay (cf. Acts 27:39). He concluded that neither the sea captain nor his crew would have recognized the eastern shoreline of the Maltese coast when it became light on the morning after they dropped anchor (cf. Acts 27:39). Unfortunately, Cornuke’s theory simply does not hold water.Experts and Computer ModelsCornuke consulted Graham Hutt, an expert on Mediterranean storms, and Hutt concluded that the ship would have been driven by the winds to the southeast quadrant of the island, and that the more likely place of the shipwreck was the Bay of St. Thomas.In the book, Cornuke described a visit to the Rescue Coordination Center of the Armed Forces of Malta (2003:184-193). Here he watched a computer model that plotted the possible course of a ship caught in a windstorm from Crete to Malta. The ship landed, after 14 days in a severe windstorm, in the St. Thomas Bay!The limitations of storm experts and computer models were well illustrated by the recent Nor’easter that hit the Northeast United States on Feb. 25-26, 2010. The storm was a prime example of what computer models and meteorologists could not predict. The meteorologists on television said that this “monster storm” defied all the computer models and did not behave as any of the meteorologists predicted it should!Bay with a beachThe beach in the St. Thomas Bay was identified as the “bay with the beach.” The earliest maps of Malta show that the Munxar Reef, at one time, was actually a series of small islands. Possibly in the first century AD, this location would have been a lengthy peninsula that has now eroded away. If that is the case, the sea captain, in all probability, would not have been able to see the low-lying beach of St. Thomas Bay from the area where the four anchor stocks were found and almost certainly, he would not have dared to sail his ship through the dangerous islands or peninsula to reach the beach! Thus, the Bay of St. Thomas could not be the beach that the captain saw or where the sailors and passengers swam to.Reef or Sandbar where the “two seas meet”Several times in the news segment the Munxar Reef is described as a “sandbar.” A careful examination of a geological map would have identified the reef as being made of “Middle Globigerina Limestone.” This soft limestone is rock not a sandbar.The identification of the “two seas meet” is based on two Greek words, “topos dithalasson”, that are translated different ways in different translations. Professor Mario Buhagiar, of the University of Malta, cautions that this term does not offer any real help because it can have several meanings and the way it is used in Acts 27:41, does not facilitate an interpretation. A place where two seas meet (Authorized and Revised versions) and a cross sea (Knox Version) are the normally accepted translations but any beach off a headland (Liddell and Scott) or an isthmus whose extremity is covered by the waves (Grimms and Thayer), as indeed most water channels, can qualify as the place where the boat grounded. The truth is that the Acts do not give us sufficient clues to help in the identification of the site (see link at bottom for full bibliography).Anchors at 90 feetMr. Cornuke interviewed people, primarily divers and spear fishermen, who claimed to have located four anchors on the south side of the Munxar Reef at 15 fathoms, or 90 feet of water. Two other anchors were allegedly found near the Munxar Reef in 10 meters (ca. 33 feet) of water. Cornuke implied in his book that these two anchors were the ones put in the skiff when the sailors tried to escape (Acts 27:30). These interviews are the author’s primary evidence for Paul’s shipwreck.Unfortunately only two actual anchor stocks can be examined. They are on display on the second floor of the Malta Maritime Museum in Vittoriosa. The other four, however, are not available for scholarly consideration. One of the anchor stocks was melted down, another is in a private collection, and two were allegedly sold on the antiquities market.Unfortunately the video clip of the anchors in the Malta Maritime Museum is very misleading. It shows 6 or 7 anchors on display, but only two are from the Munxar Reef. One of them, called “Tony’s anchor,” was one of the smallest of those on display. It measured about 3 feet, 8 inches in length and would be too small for the stern of an Alexandrian grain ship.On the other hand, Professor Mario Buhagiar examined the other anchor and gave a cautious analysis, “It could have belonged to a cargo ship, possibly a grain cargo ship, and possibly one from Alexandria” (2003: 183). He went on to conjecture, “This anchor stock would fit very well within the era of St. Paul” (2003: 184). Although this anchor could have been from an Alexandrian grain ship, suggesting that it was from Paul’s shipwreck certainly goes beyond the available evidence.Did not recognize the landIn the 1st century AD, the island of Malta was, in essence, the “Turn Right to Sicily” sign in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. Malta was the landmark for sailors sailing west from Crete who were about to turn north to Sicily.
language software
Tall el-Hammam 2008: A Personal Perspective
Tags: sodom, gomorrah, tall el-hammam--> In January 2009, we will be back in the field for our fourth season of excavating at Tall el-Hammam1, Jordan.Situated seven miles north of the Dead Seaand nine miles east of the Jordan River, it is the largest site in the southern Jordan River Valley.Surface surveys and archaeological excavations suggest that activity at the site began with the earliest Biblical references to the region and continued intermittently right through New Testament times.Tall el-Hammam is rich with remains from almost every period.While I will have more to tell after we return and have an opportunity to analyze our finds from this season, as I leave for Jordan I wanted to share what we presently know about the site down through history, especially as it relates to the Bible. One of the most important things that happenedduring the 2008 digseason was the completion of a joint agreement with the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.While we already have an excavation permit from the Kingdom’s Department of Antiquities (DoA), we now have officially entered into a whole new level of relationship with the department.The Tall el-Hammam Excavation Project (TeHEP) is now a cooperative effort between the College of Archaeology, Trinity Southwest University and the Department of Antiquities of Jordan.This partnership allows for our excavation team to work hand-in-hand with our Jordanian counterparts both in the field during the excavation season as well as in the research lab the rest of the year.Their expertise will provide great insight and support to our research. Map of the southern Jordan River Valley, the area known as the kikkar (“the plain of the Jordan” – Gn 13:10) in the Hebrew Bible.Tall el-Hammam is number 8 on the map, a site which many scholars have suggested was Abel Shittim in the time of Moses and the TeHEP thesis is that the site might have been Sodom in Abraham’s time).Note that the sites on the east side are a good distance from the Jordan River and close to the Jordan mountain range, east of the Jordan River Valley – suggesting a river flooding problem and the ancient roadway circling wide along the edge of eastern mountains.It would have been from these mountains that Balaam looked down on the Israelites and tried to curse them (Nu 22-24) and it was to these mountains that Moses ascended up to Mount Nebo and died (Dt 34). Credit: Trinity Southwest Seminary The Early Bronze Age: Tall el-Hammam and the Table of NationsThe earliest city was centered on the lower tall (tel in Hebrew [Jos 11:13] and tell or tall in Arabic; an artificial mound created by the building, destruction and rebuilding of cities at the same location) and pottery we collected here suggests that occupation goes back well before 3,000 BC. It appears the site was continuously occupied from the Chalcolithic Period through the Middle Bronze Age. The working hypothesis of the Tall el-Hammam Excavation Project is that our site is the best candidate for the Biblical city of Sodom.That would make the lower tall the city mentioned in Genesis 10 (the Table of Nations).This chapter describes the post-Flood population as it spread throughout the ancient Near East, listing a number of cities by name.It says that descendants of Ham built four cities in ancient southern Mesopotamia (Babel, Erech, Accad and Calneh), four cities in northern Mesopotamia (Nineveh, Rehoboth, Calah and Resen), three cities on the western border of Canaan (Sidon, Gerar, Gaza), and five cities on Canaan’s eastern border (Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, Zeboim and Lasha). Scholars generally believe the Bible locates Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah and Zeboim (called cities of the plain/kikkar of the Jordan – Gn 13:10) on the eastern side of the Jordan River and Dead Sea. That would also locate the eastern border of Canaan and the Canaanite culture there (Gn 19:10).While rivers regularly served as ancient national borders, the Jordan River appears not to have been the eastern boundary of Canaanite culture throughout many of the Biblical periods.Apparently an even greater boundary in the area was the high Jordanian mountains.Getting up and down those mountain slopes was even more difficult than fording the Jordan River. Similarities in the archaeological evidence from both sides of the Jordan River Valley support such a cultural boundary.Pottery from the Early Bronze Age at Tall el-Hammam connects most closely to pottery at early sites west of the Jordan River. Consequently, our lower tall would represent the Sodom whose wickedness brought God’s judgment by the time of Abraham (Gn 13:13; 18:20).Based on architectural and ceramic evidence we found this season, it appears this oldest city was actually twice as large as we thought before the season began.The lower tall (over 40 acres) was surrounded by a four-meter wide city wall with towers.A continuation of the wall’s stone foundation was traced this year around the base of the upper tall (another 40 acres) as well.That would make Early Bronze Age Tall el-Hammam about a kilometer long from east to west, with a circumference of three to four kilometers – one of the largest cities at that time in all the ancient Near East. Whole storage jar from 8th-7th centuries BC, found just a foot below the modern surface of the tall.It came from the remains of a typical house of that time period. In connection with this Early Bronze city at Tall el-Hammam, and about 200 yards east of the site, is a massive dolmen field on the edge of the foothills.Dolmens are ancient miniature “Stonehenge”-type structures.Each one was constructed with upright megalithic stones serving as the four walls and flat top, 7 x 7 x 7 feet on average.While scholars are not really certain how they were used, the lack of both pottery and bones seems to suggest they were neither houses nor tombs.Instead, they may have served a cultic or ceremonial purpose, each one possibly representing an extended family.Dating as far back as the beginning of the Early Bronze Age (3000 BC), they may have served as a sort of family shrine or funerary monument for the departed. Called the Ar Rawda Dolmen Field, with over 100 extant dolmens, the area is being threatened by development.So, TeHEP is fortunate to have a couple of contemporary studies being done on this dolmen field connected to our site.An international project is conducting an ongoing spatial analysis of the dolmen field while a comprehensive survey to identify and record all the dolmens in the area has been undertaken by Hussein al-Jarrah on behalf of the Jordanian Department of Antiquities.Hussein is also the DoA director of the region where Tall el-Hammam is located, and he works side by side with us when we are excavating as a member of the TeHEP staff. The Middle Bronze Age: Tall el-Hammam in the Days of Abraham and LotThe Middle Bronze Age city, destroyed by fire, was centered on the 40-acre upper tall.In fact, the shape of the tall today is due to the construction of a mudbrick rampart which may extend from the top of the tall and down the slope all the way to that Early Bronze Age city wall at its base.On the upper tall we had already identified the rampart beneath Iron Age city structures in a number of squares.Its construction would have been a massive undertaking and evidence of both a strong government and a prosperous community. Last season we were also able to trace the Middle Bronze Age stone city wall and a couple of towers around much of the western end of the lower tall.That, along with ceramic evidence in the lower city, suggests the Middle Bronze Age city also extended over that area as well.We will need to excavate in the lower tall to clarify these things; but either way, the massive rampart makes it clear that the central city at that time was focused on the upper tall. Down twelve feet from the modern surface of Tall el-Hammam, the excavators reached a Middle Bronze Age house in a destruction layer, beneath 10 feet of Iron Age strata.Steven Collins, Director of the Tall el-Hammam Excavation Project (TeHEP), is in the foreground left, the author is in the rear on the right. On the upper tall a number of mudbrick walls have been found still partially standing,
Rosetta Stone German
Rosetta Stone German
2011年3月9日星期三
10 Mar 11 Collection Appeal Rights
Collection Appeal RightsBy: Sawyer Adams .... Click author's name to view profile and articles!!!Retargeting by ChangoTweet As a taxpayer, you are entitled to know what Collection Appeal Rights you have with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). There are some procedures with the help of which you can appeal against IRS collections action. The two main procedures you can use to contest collections initiated by the IRS are:Collection Due Process (CDP): You are entitled to initiate a CDP procedure if you receive one of the following notices: * Notice of Federal Tax Lien filing and your Right to Hearing under IRC 6320 * Final notice of your Intent to Levy and notice of your Right to Hearing * Notice of Jeopardy Levy and Right of Appeal * Notice of Levy on your State Tax refundCollection Appeals Program (CAP): You are entitled to initiate a CAP procedure for the following actions: * Before or after the IRS files a Notice of Federal Tax Lien * Before or after the IRS levies or seizes your assets * Termination of an Installment Agreement (IA) * Rejection of an Installment AgreementYou may represent yourself or enlist the of an Attorney, CPA or Enrolled Agent at the CDP, CAP and other Appeals proceedings. If you want a representative to appear on your behalf, you must file Form 2848 - "Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative." You may also authorize an individual, Attorney, CPA or Enrolled Agent to receive or inspect confidential material but not represent you before the IRS, by filing Form 8821 - "Tax Information Authorization."How to Request a CDPYou must fill out Form 12153 - "Request for a Collection Due Process or Equivalent Hearing" and send it to the address displayed on your levy or lien notice. If you have received both a lien and a levy notice, you may appeal against both actions by checking the boxes in line 5 on the form. You must also identify the alternatives to the lien or levy action. Possible alternatives may include: * An Installment Agreement, Offer in promise or Currently Not Collectible Status * Discharge of lien * Withdrawal of Notice of Federal Tax LienAfter you request a CDP hearing, your case will be forwarded to Appeals. Appeals will schedule a conference with you in person, on the telephone or by written munication. Unless the IRS believes that the collection of taxes is in jeopardy, you are not subject to any levy action during the 30 days after the levy action or the CDP hearing. If you make a timely request for a CDP hearing, the 10-year period that the IRS has to collect the taxes will be suspended, until you request to withdraw your hearing in writing or the hearing is pleted.How to Appeal against the Termination of an Installment AgreementCall the person or entity whose telephone number was mentioned on the termination notice, and explain that you want to appeal against the termination. Your appeal need not be in writing, unless the notice is sent by a Revenue Officer, in which case you need to request for an appeal using Form 9423. You will have 76 days from the day of the notice to file your appeal. Unless you appeal within 30 days from the date of the notice, the installment agreement will terminate automatically on the 46th day. After the 46th day, your right to appeal will continue for 30 more days. Your request for an appeal must be made on or before the 76th day after the date of the notice of intent to terminate the installment agreement. You are entitled to file only a solitary appeal within the 76 day period.How to Appeal against the Rejection of an Installment AgreementCall the person or entity whose telephone number was shown on the termination notice, and explain that you want to appeal against the termination. Your appeal need not be in writing, unless the notice is sent by a Revenue Officer, in which case you need to request for an appeal using Form 9423. You must appeal against the rejection of your installment agreement on or before the 30th day after the date of the notice of rejection.You can also appeal against other collection actions like the rejection of Offer in promise, Trust Fund recovery penalties, and denial of request to suspend penalties.Enrolled AgentsWould you like to bee an Enrolled Agent? To bee an Enrolled Agent an individual must pass the Special Enrollment Examination, also referred to as the EA Exam. The Special Enrollment Examination is a three-part exam administered by the IRS. The exam covers all areas of tax preparation including IRS Circular 230.Before taking the Special Enrollment Examination you should prepare by getting an Enrolled Agent study guide or taking an Enrolled Agent review course.Article Source: abcarticledirectoryFast Forward Academy is a leading publisher of education for enrolled agents and tax professionals. Access to free questions for the enrolled agent exam is available on their website.Note: The content of this article solely conveys the opinion of its author, Sawyer AdamsRetargeting by ChangoDid You Like This Article? Share It With YourFriends!Please Rate this Article 5 out of 54 out of 53 out of 52 out of 51 out of 5 Not yet Rated Click the XML Icon to Receive Free Articles About Auditing via RSS!Additional Articles From - Home Accounting AuditingWhat you need to know about Auditing from the experts.- By : john newportCulture and business proposition- By : foxhatsNavigating Miscellaneous Itemized Deductions- By : Sawyer AdamsAbout The National Association Of Enrolled Agents (NAEA)- By : Sawyer AdamsThe History Of Enrolled Agents- By : Sawyer AdamsThe Canon Sd780is Black Silver Gold Red - Very Nice Christmas Gift- By : ArticleSubmit AutoIRS Increasing Enforcement Activity- By : Sawyer AdamsDestination Military Surplus Products- By : Ali Khan5 Tips For Getting The Right Health Insurance For Your Needs- By : danica12 Quick Tips For Eye Shadow- By : Ali Khan Still Searching? Last Chance to find what you're looking for. Try using Bing Search!
2011年3月5日星期六
5 Mar 11 Make Money Online with Affiliate Programs
Make Money Online with Affiliate ProgramsBy: cher k .... Click author's name to view profile and articles!!!Retargeting by ChangoTweet If you are interested in making some extra money to pay off creditors or earn enough income to replace your current job or career then the Internet is the place where aspiring entrepreneurs are turning. Unlike traditional businesses, a business on the Internet can be started with virtually no capital, with the exception of your website expense. You have to have a website if you want to do business on the Internet.If you do not have your Hockey Jersey
own product to advertise on your website, there are literally millions of affiliate programs on the Internet who do have products and will pay you commissions to sell their products from your website. You can choose to sell cell phones, or internet services, candles, furniture, or maybe insurance, the field is wide open. The affiliate program you choose will also handle all the money, shipping and correspondence with your customers. All you need to do is to generate the traffic to your new website in order to make the sale.Often times the affiliate program you join will offer you free websites and that is great, but you will never generate enough free traffic to these affiliate sites to succeed without having your own website. Why you ask? For one, the search engines do not list affiliate sites and you definitely want to get listed in the search engines, this will be your biggest free traffic source.One of the best ways to generate free traffic is to get involved in link exchanges. You will basically place a link to another site on your website and they will in turn place a link on their site to yours. Once you have exchanged several hundred links a portion of your link partners traffic will come to your site. The free websites you have been given via your affiliate program will not be able to be edited in anyway, thus link exchanges are not an option.Link exchanges produce a double bonus also. Not only will you get traffic from your link partners, the search engines will place you higher in their listings when they see lots of links pointing to your site.The Internet was created to provide information, so if you want to succeed on the Internet and generate lots of free traffic, you are going to have to provide information on your website. Offering free and useful information will keep your visitors coming back to your website, and the double bonus here is that the search engines love content. The more content your website has will produce better listings in the search engines.Once you have perfected this process of building a website, getting listed in the search engines and have Chicago Blackhawks jersey
developed a huge traffic stream to your website, your going to be making sales. It will start out slow and as you build links and content, the traffic will grow and so will your sales.Affiliate programs can be a great stepping stone to get your foot in the door towards cashing in on the riches that the Internet provides. You can know the secrets of affiliate marketing through various e-books and guides that help in affiliate marketing.As time goes by you will find that you have learned so much and have evolved into an Internet Guru and now it is time to take it one step farther, and start selling YOURSELF. Using the knowledge that you have gained, you may want to venture into selling your services to other entrepreneurs just getting started. You could start a consulting business, or you may offer to build websites, or to help your clients get listed in the search engines. You may want to start writing E-Books and selling them. The possibilities are endless.The Internet is a huge marketplace that is still virtually untapped. Do not waste another day worrying about how you are going to pay your creditors or provide for your family in the future. Start an Internet business today and see how your life can be changed for the better.Article Source: http://www.shop-on-sale.com Cher K Markov articles on various subjects and has a treasure chest of information and resources for you on affiliate marketing at onlinedownloads.wordpress.comNote: The content of this article solely conveys the opinion of its author, cher kRetargeting by ChangoDid You Like This Article? Share It With YourFriends!Please Rate this Article 5 out of 54 out of 53 out of 52 out of 51 out of 5 Not yet Rated Click the XML Icon to Receive Free Articles About Affiliate Programs What Cloth Diaper Provides The Top Match For Newborns?- By : Blackhawks jersey
mirtagaylWhat is Affiliate Marketing and Why You Should Do It?- By : James A AndersonEarning Money Quickly With Email Marketing - True or False?- By : chad buistMoney Creating Tips For Individuals Involved In An Online Affiliate Marketing Home Business- By : Johnny BarrellGlobal Success Club And How To Make Money Online- By : Don SeanMake Cash Over The Internet With Affiliate Marketing- By : Leroy WheelerWhich Affiliate Networks To Look Out For When Promoting ?- By : Elsa Braxton Still Searching? Last Chance to find what you're looking for. Try using Bing Search!
own product to advertise on your website, there are literally millions of affiliate programs on the Internet who do have products and will pay you commissions to sell their products from your website. You can choose to sell cell phones, or internet services, candles, furniture, or maybe insurance, the field is wide open. The affiliate program you choose will also handle all the money, shipping and correspondence with your customers. All you need to do is to generate the traffic to your new website in order to make the sale.Often times the affiliate program you join will offer you free websites and that is great, but you will never generate enough free traffic to these affiliate sites to succeed without having your own website. Why you ask? For one, the search engines do not list affiliate sites and you definitely want to get listed in the search engines, this will be your biggest free traffic source.One of the best ways to generate free traffic is to get involved in link exchanges. You will basically place a link to another site on your website and they will in turn place a link on their site to yours. Once you have exchanged several hundred links a portion of your link partners traffic will come to your site. The free websites you have been given via your affiliate program will not be able to be edited in anyway, thus link exchanges are not an option.Link exchanges produce a double bonus also. Not only will you get traffic from your link partners, the search engines will place you higher in their listings when they see lots of links pointing to your site.The Internet was created to provide information, so if you want to succeed on the Internet and generate lots of free traffic, you are going to have to provide information on your website. Offering free and useful information will keep your visitors coming back to your website, and the double bonus here is that the search engines love content. The more content your website has will produce better listings in the search engines.Once you have perfected this process of building a website, getting listed in the search engines and have Chicago Blackhawks jersey
developed a huge traffic stream to your website, your going to be making sales. It will start out slow and as you build links and content, the traffic will grow and so will your sales.Affiliate programs can be a great stepping stone to get your foot in the door towards cashing in on the riches that the Internet provides. You can know the secrets of affiliate marketing through various e-books and guides that help in affiliate marketing.As time goes by you will find that you have learned so much and have evolved into an Internet Guru and now it is time to take it one step farther, and start selling YOURSELF. Using the knowledge that you have gained, you may want to venture into selling your services to other entrepreneurs just getting started. You could start a consulting business, or you may offer to build websites, or to help your clients get listed in the search engines. You may want to start writing E-Books and selling them. The possibilities are endless.The Internet is a huge marketplace that is still virtually untapped. Do not waste another day worrying about how you are going to pay your creditors or provide for your family in the future. Start an Internet business today and see how your life can be changed for the better.Article Source: http://www.shop-on-sale.com Cher K Markov articles on various subjects and has a treasure chest of information and resources for you on affiliate marketing at onlinedownloads.wordpress.comNote: The content of this article solely conveys the opinion of its author, cher kRetargeting by ChangoDid You Like This Article? Share It With YourFriends!Please Rate this Article 5 out of 54 out of 53 out of 52 out of 51 out of 5 Not yet Rated Click the XML Icon to Receive Free Articles About Affiliate Programs What Cloth Diaper Provides The Top Match For Newborns?- By : Blackhawks jersey
mirtagaylWhat is Affiliate Marketing and Why You Should Do It?- By : James A AndersonEarning Money Quickly With Email Marketing - True or False?- By : chad buistMoney Creating Tips For Individuals Involved In An Online Affiliate Marketing Home Business- By : Johnny BarrellGlobal Success Club And How To Make Money Online- By : Don SeanMake Cash Over The Internet With Affiliate Marketing- By : Leroy WheelerWhich Affiliate Networks To Look Out For When Promoting ?- By : Elsa Braxton Still Searching? Last Chance to find what you're looking for. Try using Bing Search!
2011年1月24日星期一
24 Jan 11 Oregon State Beavers vs Arizona State Sun Devils: ASU Looks for Tough Road Win
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesThe Arizona State Sun Devils are looking to rebound off two mistake-ridden matchups against the No. 11 Wisconsin Badgers and the No. 5 Oregon Ducks in an away game against the always steady Oregon State Beavers.Both the Sun Devils and the Beavers have had a rough St. Louis Rams jersey
start to the 2010 season, but it is to be expected when you enter games as the clear underdog.Oregon State tallied losses against then-No. 6 TCU and No. 3 Boise State, but being able to acquire a win against Big East foe Louisville.The Sun Devils head to Corvallis as six-point underdogs as the Beavers open up their first Pac-10 game at home.Let's break down the offense and defense for both teams heading into Saturday's conference matchup.OffenseOregon State places 101st in the country for both passing and rushing, averaging 161 yards in the air and 109 yards on the ground.Starting quarterback Ryan Katz has only totaled 461 yards and five touchdowns through the first three games, with a season high 160 passing yards against Boise State. Katz has also yet to break the 57-percent completion rate that he put up against Louisville.Now to the "heart and sole" of the Beaver offensethe Rodgers brothers.Running back Jacquizz Rodgers has 253 rushing yards and four touchdowns on the season, with only one game in which he rushed for over 100 yards (132 versus Louisville).Wide receiver James Rodgers, who led the team in receptions last season, has brought in 113 yards and one touchdown through three games. James sustained a concussion against Boise State last week, and remains questionable for Saturday's game against the Sun Devils.Arizona State's offense has been exceptional, ranking fifth in the country for passing yards (326/game) and 47th in rushing yards (169/game).Quarterback Steven Threet has 1,228 passing yards through the first four games, including 387 yards against the nation's No. 5 team last week.Threet hasn't been totally perfect though, throwing seven interceptions through the first four gamesfour against Oregon to result in a loss.ASU running backs Cameron Marshall and Tennessee Titans jersey
Deantre Lewis have both been solid in recent games, adding a much needed ground attack to the high-octane offense. Lewis had back-to-back 100-plus rushing games against Wisconsin and Oregontwo teams that featured nation-leading defense heading into the contests.Who will win this conference showdown?Who will win this conference showdown?Arizona State60.3%Oregon State39.7%Total votes: 68The Sun Devil offense put up 597 total yards against No. 5 Oregon in Tempe, but mental mistakes in the red zone prohibited ASU from scoringa weakness that has shined in the past two games.EDGE: Arizona StateDefenseThe Oregon State defense has allowed 30 points or more in each of their first three games, and allowing an average of 392 total yards each game.After allowing 288 passing yards against Louisville and 294 yards in the air against Boise State, the Oregon State defense will likely have their hands full with the fast-paced, pass-oriented spread offense the Sun Devils have implemented.On the flip side, the Arizona State defense is as strong as ever coming off a week were they forced Oregon to punt a total of 11 times.The ASU defense cut the explosive Duck running game nearly in half, allowing them only 145 yards on the grounda feat no other team has accomplished this season.In fact, the Sun Devil defense was able to contain Heisman candidate LaMichael James to his first game this season under 100 rushing yards and 3.2 yards per carry, his lowest average of his career.EDGE: Arizona StateConclusionIn what should be Washington Redskins jersey
a close game, the Arizona State Sun Devils have an advantage on both sides of the ball heading into hostile territory.Both teams are in dyer need for a win in Week 5, but ASU should come out with a conference win, assuming the team limits mental mistakes and sloppy turnovers.
start to the 2010 season, but it is to be expected when you enter games as the clear underdog.Oregon State tallied losses against then-No. 6 TCU and No. 3 Boise State, but being able to acquire a win against Big East foe Louisville.The Sun Devils head to Corvallis as six-point underdogs as the Beavers open up their first Pac-10 game at home.Let's break down the offense and defense for both teams heading into Saturday's conference matchup.OffenseOregon State places 101st in the country for both passing and rushing, averaging 161 yards in the air and 109 yards on the ground.Starting quarterback Ryan Katz has only totaled 461 yards and five touchdowns through the first three games, with a season high 160 passing yards against Boise State. Katz has also yet to break the 57-percent completion rate that he put up against Louisville.Now to the "heart and sole" of the Beaver offensethe Rodgers brothers.Running back Jacquizz Rodgers has 253 rushing yards and four touchdowns on the season, with only one game in which he rushed for over 100 yards (132 versus Louisville).Wide receiver James Rodgers, who led the team in receptions last season, has brought in 113 yards and one touchdown through three games. James sustained a concussion against Boise State last week, and remains questionable for Saturday's game against the Sun Devils.Arizona State's offense has been exceptional, ranking fifth in the country for passing yards (326/game) and 47th in rushing yards (169/game).Quarterback Steven Threet has 1,228 passing yards through the first four games, including 387 yards against the nation's No. 5 team last week.Threet hasn't been totally perfect though, throwing seven interceptions through the first four gamesfour against Oregon to result in a loss.ASU running backs Cameron Marshall and Tennessee Titans jersey
Deantre Lewis have both been solid in recent games, adding a much needed ground attack to the high-octane offense. Lewis had back-to-back 100-plus rushing games against Wisconsin and Oregontwo teams that featured nation-leading defense heading into the contests.Who will win this conference showdown?Who will win this conference showdown?Arizona State60.3%Oregon State39.7%Total votes: 68The Sun Devil offense put up 597 total yards against No. 5 Oregon in Tempe, but mental mistakes in the red zone prohibited ASU from scoringa weakness that has shined in the past two games.EDGE: Arizona StateDefenseThe Oregon State defense has allowed 30 points or more in each of their first three games, and allowing an average of 392 total yards each game.After allowing 288 passing yards against Louisville and 294 yards in the air against Boise State, the Oregon State defense will likely have their hands full with the fast-paced, pass-oriented spread offense the Sun Devils have implemented.On the flip side, the Arizona State defense is as strong as ever coming off a week were they forced Oregon to punt a total of 11 times.The ASU defense cut the explosive Duck running game nearly in half, allowing them only 145 yards on the grounda feat no other team has accomplished this season.In fact, the Sun Devil defense was able to contain Heisman candidate LaMichael James to his first game this season under 100 rushing yards and 3.2 yards per carry, his lowest average of his career.EDGE: Arizona StateConclusionIn what should be Washington Redskins jersey
a close game, the Arizona State Sun Devils have an advantage on both sides of the ball heading into hostile territory.Both teams are in dyer need for a win in Week 5, but ASU should come out with a conference win, assuming the team limits mental mistakes and sloppy turnovers.
2011年1月22日星期六
22 Jan 11 SEC Drama: Random Thoughts on The Season, Part I
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesAs opposed to putting out a full-body analysis of one game, I thought I'd throw out some readily-digestible chunks to spur some debate. I welcome any and all opinion and feedback on this format: What are the chances that certain teams are still "holding back" in terms of formations, sets, etc.? In the case of Alabama, there must certainly be a play in the books with Richardson and Ingram running some sort of ridiculous power sweep. What are the chances of Auburn or Arkansas having something similar, in terms of secret weapons? How Dallas Cowboys jersey
happy must the Commodores be right now? Yes, Ole Miss is about as well-built as a soup sandwich, but I've gotta think that the Vandy crew celebrated this win in a big way. Masoli must be ready to yank his face off out of frustration. I am certain a few people are calling Karma on this one... Auburn has talent, no question about it. But I saw a couple of things in the Clemson game that has me thinking that 11-12 wins (as some predict) is more than a stretch. If Auburn starts to have to win games by passing the ball, they are going to be in serious trouble. Watching Newton throw to DA in double coverage while the other cat was wide open shows me that he has a significant amount of growing to do. Florida seemed to get it together long enough to beat Tennessee. I was thinking an upset could happen, but since I didn't see the whole game, I can't provide detailed analysis of that match. I will say this, though: this is the kind of fire that great teams are forged in. When Alabama was going .500 in coach Saban's first year, that group was learning some valuable lessons on what it takes to win ballgames. I can't help but think that Dooley could have a real beast in Knoxville in the next two to three years. True Story: I picked the Gamecocks to win the East when they signed Lattimore in the offseason. USC has been one-dimensional for years now, and he takes care of exactly what they have been lacking. In my view, Garcia's mental issues have stemmed from a belief that he had to shoulder all of the offensive burden, on top of wondering if he was going to be yanked Denver Broncos jersey
at any second. That does not a happy QB situation make. Now that he has a stud RB, he has breathing room and some peace of mind in terms of offensive options. Teams can no longer sell out to stop the passing attack. The defense gets to rest a bit more since the g-cocks can actually sustain some long drives. Call me uninformed, but I had no idea Ryan Mallett was 0-fer-eternity in SEC road wins. My beloved Crimson Tide had better be ready for Petrino's team! Sidebar: Dre Kirkpatrick is going to be a lockdown, skull-cracking player before it's all over.Thanks for reading!
happy must the Commodores be right now? Yes, Ole Miss is about as well-built as a soup sandwich, but I've gotta think that the Vandy crew celebrated this win in a big way. Masoli must be ready to yank his face off out of frustration. I am certain a few people are calling Karma on this one... Auburn has talent, no question about it. But I saw a couple of things in the Clemson game that has me thinking that 11-12 wins (as some predict) is more than a stretch. If Auburn starts to have to win games by passing the ball, they are going to be in serious trouble. Watching Newton throw to DA in double coverage while the other cat was wide open shows me that he has a significant amount of growing to do. Florida seemed to get it together long enough to beat Tennessee. I was thinking an upset could happen, but since I didn't see the whole game, I can't provide detailed analysis of that match. I will say this, though: this is the kind of fire that great teams are forged in. When Alabama was going .500 in coach Saban's first year, that group was learning some valuable lessons on what it takes to win ballgames. I can't help but think that Dooley could have a real beast in Knoxville in the next two to three years. True Story: I picked the Gamecocks to win the East when they signed Lattimore in the offseason. USC has been one-dimensional for years now, and he takes care of exactly what they have been lacking. In my view, Garcia's mental issues have stemmed from a belief that he had to shoulder all of the offensive burden, on top of wondering if he was going to be yanked Denver Broncos jersey
at any second. That does not a happy QB situation make. Now that he has a stud RB, he has breathing room and some peace of mind in terms of offensive options. Teams can no longer sell out to stop the passing attack. The defense gets to rest a bit more since the g-cocks can actually sustain some long drives. Call me uninformed, but I had no idea Ryan Mallett was 0-fer-eternity in SEC road wins. My beloved Crimson Tide had better be ready for Petrino's team! Sidebar: Dre Kirkpatrick is going to be a lockdown, skull-cracking player before it's all over.Thanks for reading!
2011年1月18日星期二
18 Jan 11 Hogs Host The Crimson Tide: Arkansas Has No Chance Against Alabama?
Brian A. Westerholt/Getty ImagesThis Saturday will mark the biggest game in the state of Arkansas since the last top 10 match-up in 1979, when No. 6 Houston came to Fayetteville to face the No. 3 Arkansas Razorbacks.A lot has changed in 31 years.The Hogs are now ranked 10th in the nation, the Houston Cougars Reebok Chicago Bears #54 Brian Urlacher Realtree camo Jersey
season is in what appears to be a downward spiral, after losing both their starting and second string QBs.Last but not least, the University of Alabama Crimson Tide is No. 1 in the country.One thing is for sure, this will be a huge game.University of Arkansas students began camping outside DW Reynolds Razorback Stadium late Monday night/early Tuesday morning for a game that has been sold out for two weeks.Shortly thereafter, Arkansas students pleaded via Facebook and Twitter, for a "Red Out."However, I do not believe that this will be necessary. The Crimson Tide come to Fayetteville boasting the No. 1 ranking in the nation, so I believe that they would like to keep that intact.The Hogs go into Saturday remembering how they felt after the game a year ago in Tuscaloosa, the trip back, and having to sit and watch the game on film.That game has been on the Razorback players minds throughout last season, leading into this season.Arkansas doesn't need a gimmicky "Red Out" to remind them how big this game is; they don't need a thing with Ryan Mallett in the locker room.If you ask Arkansas' field general about Alabama, he changes his tone.His boyish smile goes away.His chipper happy go lucky attitude fades and a serious, strictly business demeanor comes over him.He remembers completing only 12 of his 35 pass attempts last year, he remembers the pass rush, he remembers looking up at the scoreboard after the game at the 35-7 final.If you would have asked him at the beginning of the season how many wins he predicted his Hogs to win this year, his answer was quick and simple: 14.If you ask him right now, his answer: 14.Ryan Mallett not only wants to change the way the fan base feels about the Arkansas Razorbackshe wants to change the way the nation perceives the Hogs.He brings a winning attitude to Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
a team that has had its share of disappointments and letdowns.He was a Razorback fan in 1998 when an undefeated Arkansas squad took on undefeated Tennessee and lost after Clint Stoerner fumbled in the waning moments, allowing the Volunteers to make a game winning drive.He brings the passion of a life long fan to this Arkansas Razorbacks team.But it's not just him: This entire team has shown that, although they may be down, such as last week's game against SEC foe Georgia, they are certainly not out.The improvement that this Arkansas team has made is quite evident to people around the state.A year ago, Arkansas loses that game. There is no dramatic comeback. Only a defensive fold and another painful loss.All the critics said in the preseason, "Arkansas won't be improved enough on defense."The Hogs D begs to differ.During the Ark-UGA game, the defense forced three and outs, bad passes, and came away with 6 sacks.They currently sit in the top 10 in most every category nationally. But they are looking to build on that and keep on improving.The past few days, this Arkansas Razorback team has sat back and listened to the entire country tell them that they don't stand a chance.Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesThat this game will be "deja vu."I sincerely hope that the Crimson Tide football team shares the same view of most the their fans.I hope that they waltz into DW Reynolds Razorback Stadium thinking: "We got this one in the bag."But we all know that won't be the case.Nick Saban is a phenomenal coach, who will have his team ready to play come Saturday.But don't think for a second that the Arkansas Razorbacks don't stand a fighting chance.After all, this Crimson Tide defense has yet to face an offense like this.Through the first three games this season for Alabama, it has been there. Noticed by opposing coaches, who were unable to exploit it due to lack of player experience and talent.Alabama's young secondary has shown the Arkansas coaching staff all they need to see to at least make this a competitive game. When Alabama played Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
then No. 18 Penn State, true freshman Rob Bolden saw creases in the coverage but didn't have the accuracy or arm strength to make Bama pay for their defensive flaws.That is a different story with Ryan Mallett on deck.Sure, you might sit back and say that the Arkansas Razorbacks don't stand a chance.But I'm sure that Jacksonville State and James Madison were told something similar. Ask Houston Nutt and Frank Beamer how that worked out.
season is in what appears to be a downward spiral, after losing both their starting and second string QBs.Last but not least, the University of Alabama Crimson Tide is No. 1 in the country.One thing is for sure, this will be a huge game.University of Arkansas students began camping outside DW Reynolds Razorback Stadium late Monday night/early Tuesday morning for a game that has been sold out for two weeks.Shortly thereafter, Arkansas students pleaded via Facebook and Twitter, for a "Red Out."However, I do not believe that this will be necessary. The Crimson Tide come to Fayetteville boasting the No. 1 ranking in the nation, so I believe that they would like to keep that intact.The Hogs go into Saturday remembering how they felt after the game a year ago in Tuscaloosa, the trip back, and having to sit and watch the game on film.That game has been on the Razorback players minds throughout last season, leading into this season.Arkansas doesn't need a gimmicky "Red Out" to remind them how big this game is; they don't need a thing with Ryan Mallett in the locker room.If you ask Arkansas' field general about Alabama, he changes his tone.His boyish smile goes away.His chipper happy go lucky attitude fades and a serious, strictly business demeanor comes over him.He remembers completing only 12 of his 35 pass attempts last year, he remembers the pass rush, he remembers looking up at the scoreboard after the game at the 35-7 final.If you would have asked him at the beginning of the season how many wins he predicted his Hogs to win this year, his answer was quick and simple: 14.If you ask him right now, his answer: 14.Ryan Mallett not only wants to change the way the fan base feels about the Arkansas Razorbackshe wants to change the way the nation perceives the Hogs.He brings a winning attitude to Reebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
a team that has had its share of disappointments and letdowns.He was a Razorback fan in 1998 when an undefeated Arkansas squad took on undefeated Tennessee and lost after Clint Stoerner fumbled in the waning moments, allowing the Volunteers to make a game winning drive.He brings the passion of a life long fan to this Arkansas Razorbacks team.But it's not just him: This entire team has shown that, although they may be down, such as last week's game against SEC foe Georgia, they are certainly not out.The improvement that this Arkansas team has made is quite evident to people around the state.A year ago, Arkansas loses that game. There is no dramatic comeback. Only a defensive fold and another painful loss.All the critics said in the preseason, "Arkansas won't be improved enough on defense."The Hogs D begs to differ.During the Ark-UGA game, the defense forced three and outs, bad passes, and came away with 6 sacks.They currently sit in the top 10 in most every category nationally. But they are looking to build on that and keep on improving.The past few days, this Arkansas Razorback team has sat back and listened to the entire country tell them that they don't stand a chance.Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesThat this game will be "deja vu."I sincerely hope that the Crimson Tide football team shares the same view of most the their fans.I hope that they waltz into DW Reynolds Razorback Stadium thinking: "We got this one in the bag."But we all know that won't be the case.Nick Saban is a phenomenal coach, who will have his team ready to play come Saturday.But don't think for a second that the Arkansas Razorbacks don't stand a fighting chance.After all, this Crimson Tide defense has yet to face an offense like this.Through the first three games this season for Alabama, it has been there. Noticed by opposing coaches, who were unable to exploit it due to lack of player experience and talent.Alabama's young secondary has shown the Arkansas coaching staff all they need to see to at least make this a competitive game. When Alabama played Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
then No. 18 Penn State, true freshman Rob Bolden saw creases in the coverage but didn't have the accuracy or arm strength to make Bama pay for their defensive flaws.That is a different story with Ryan Mallett on deck.Sure, you might sit back and say that the Arkansas Razorbacks don't stand a chance.But I'm sure that Jacksonville State and James Madison were told something similar. Ask Houston Nutt and Frank Beamer how that worked out.
2011年1月15日星期六
15 Jan 11 "St. Louis Rams set to rival, relive Greatest Show on Turf"
The Greatest Show on Turf era's St. Louis Rams boasted a cast of characters whose collection of offensive talent was unlike anything the NFL has ever enjoyed. Unfortunately, age, defections and coaching controversy eventually eroded the greatness of that team. But, for a too brief three-year period, it was sublime fPittsburgh Steelers jersey
or NFL fans.The Rams of today have made some compelling offensive acquisitions thus far this offseason. Already among the top offenses in the league, St. Louis has acquired the services of proven veterans Drew Bennett and Randy McMichael. Adding these weapons to the already impressive offensive toy box means the Rams could now potentially possess an offense that, in terms of talent, rivals the Greatest Show on Turf era (1999-2001). Let's compare the Rams' offense of that glorious era gone by to the 2007 incarnation to see if today's team can truly stack up:Quarterback: Kurt Warner vs. Marc BulgerNow get this straight, Rams fans: For the basis of our comparison we are using the Warner of yesteryear with the uncanny accuracy. Remember him? We're using the QB who would stand resolute in the pocket, take a Jevon Kearse clothesline to the larynx just to get the ball off, magical late '90s Warner. We are not using the backward-bent-thumbs, my-spiky-shorn-wife-wears-the-jockstrap-in-the-family, God-got-me-benched quarterback who is a shell of his former self as a backup with the Arizona Cardinals.Bulger seems to finally be receiving the accolades he so richly deserves and is one of the elite QBs in the game. However, Warner was a touchdown-throwing machine, and Bulger, despite his impressive play, can't stack up to the otherworldly numbers amassed by Warner during that three-year span (12,612 yards, 67.2 average completion percentage, 98 TDs). Advantage: Greatest Show.Number one receiver: Isaac Bruce vs. Torry HoltIf nothing else, Rams fans, you can't complain about the quality of starting wideouts over the last 20 years. From Henry Ellard and Flipper Anderson to Holt and Bruce, the Rams have enjoyed some of the best receivers the game has ever known. It's a difficult proposition at best choosing one Hall of Famer over another in this case, and during the era in question it can be argued that Holt assumed the title of "number one" at some point. Therefore, in light of these facts and as the Bruce of that era and the Holt of today are/were nothing short of incredible, we'll take the coward's way out. Advantage: Wash.Second receiver: Torry Holt vs. Isaac Bruce Holt began his career relatively slow by his standards (788 yards and 6 touchdowns in his rookie season), then proceeded to go on a tear unlike anything the NFL had ever seen, posting 1,300-plus yards for six straight seasons until injuries last year limited him to a "mere" 1,188 yards and 10 touchdowns. However, for the basis of San Diego Chargers jersey
this comparison, we are looking at Holt as the number two during the Greatest Show era and Bruce as the number two of today. Make no mistake: Bruce could be a number one on countless NFL squads even today. He is still among the better route runners in the league and added yet another 1,000-yard season to his collection last year. However, Holt was putting up best-receiver-in-the-league-type numbers when he was a number two, and while still potent, the Bruce of today can't compare. Advantage: Greatest Show.Running Back: Marshall Faulk vs. Steven Jackson Jackson is a rare combination of strength and speed. Like a bull sporting "Predator" dreadlocks, he is equally adept at running around or over an opponent. Faulk was a smaller package, not as strong but quicker with uncanny intelligence and agility. Faulk averaged well over 5 yards per carry in the Greatest Show days and was constantly finding the endzone.Jackson has proven himself to be more than a capable receiver, but Faulk could have just as easily been a wideout in the league. Jackson may get there yet, but Faulk was deservedly the league's MVP. In short, Jackson is spectacular, but Faulk was unreal. Advantage: Greatest Show.Third receiver: Az-Zahir Hakim vs. Drew BennettHakim was exciting in his time with the Rams and made his share of big plays. Bennett is a much larger target but nowhere near as fast as the nimble Hakim. Bennett proved he could be a number one receiver in his time in Tennessee and should be a nightmare to cover when matched against an opponent's third cornerback or linebacker. The difference maker is that Bennett has one turnover in his entire career and Hakim never met a ball he didn't fumble. Advantage: 2007 Rams.Tight end: Ernie Conwell/Roland Williams vs. Randy McMichaelConwell was a willing blocker and Williams was a capable receiver, but neither had a truly significant impact in the Greatest Show years. While only an average blocker, McMichael is an adept receiver who is already proven due to his production in Miami. He could further flourish with the Pro Bowl-caliber Bulger throwing to him. McMichael is the real deal and has the quality role players from the Greatest Show beat. Advantage: 2007 Rams.Offensive Line: Let's see, there's the young, hungry, best tackle in the league inSan Francisco 49ers jersey
Orlando Pace against the still-talented, oft-injured, money-hungry Pace of today. Back then, it was a young veteran line consisting of players like Tom Nutten and Pro Bowler Adam Timmerman against the wet-nosed pups of today. And don't forget the right tackle brothers from different false-starting mothers in Alex Barron and Fred Miller. While today's line shows promise and was instrumental in assisting Steven Jackson to his 1,500-yard breakout season, Bulger still ends up on the turf in a crumpled heap with alarming consistency. The Super Bowl era Rams line was a model of teamwork and usually kept Warner upright despite not getting a lot of help because of their coach's penchant for running four-wide sets and using Faulk so often as a receiver. Advantage: Greatest Show.Fourth receiver: Ricky Proehl vs. ? If not for Proehl's famous acrobatic touchdown grab in the 1999 season's NFC Championship against Tampa Bay, we may never have heard of the Greatest Show at all. It is uncertain whether Dane Looker will assume the number four role or if the Rams will fulfill that need in the draft. Proehl's tangible, quality contributions versus a player to be named later is a no-brainer. Advantage: Greatest Show.Head Coach: Mike Martz vs. Scott Linehan The brazen, near-omnipotent machinations of Mike Martz' "Max Q" offense, or the toned down, methodical approach employed by Scott Linehan? While most fans are happy that Martz was tossed out of Rams Nation on his ear, one thing is certain concerning his time with the club: The former coach's offense is directly responsible for two Super Bowl appearances and one world championship. Even the most ardent Martz detractors must admit to this fact.While the comparison to Linehan may be unfair (considering his body of work consists of only a single season), of the Rams' current head coach we can at least say one thing: that, despite his reputation for offense, he is much more conservative when compared to Mad Mike (although, truth be told, Martz makes Don Coryell look like Chuck Knox). Linehan hasn't exactly been a model of consistency either. Errant coaching decisions must take at least a portion of the blame for both Seattle losses last season. However, Linehan's game management skills show signs of improvement, and unlike Martz, he doesn't burn timeouts because his shoe is untied.When it comes down to it, Martz was the brain behind the golden age of Rams football, and you just can't argue with the Lombardi Trophy (people would think you were crazy). Advantage: Martz Madness.It appears as if the 2007 Rams offense doesn't quite stack up to that of the Greatest Show on Turf, being outclassed 6-2 according to the given criteria. But that doesn't mean they don't belong in the conversation; and while this Seattle Seahawks jersey
comparison doesn't take defense in to account, it seems as if the Rams are one or two competent defensive tackles away from being a contender next year. Perhaps the offense won't be revisiting the glory days of the Greatest Show on Turf, and perhaps there will instead be a need for an entirely new moniker. If the new pieces can jell, though, it's certainly possible. We'll find out in September.**You can e-mail Steve Reynolds at sreynoldsOriginal NFL coverage, courtesy of RealFootball365.com (10)
or NFL fans.The Rams of today have made some compelling offensive acquisitions thus far this offseason. Already among the top offenses in the league, St. Louis has acquired the services of proven veterans Drew Bennett and Randy McMichael. Adding these weapons to the already impressive offensive toy box means the Rams could now potentially possess an offense that, in terms of talent, rivals the Greatest Show on Turf era (1999-2001). Let's compare the Rams' offense of that glorious era gone by to the 2007 incarnation to see if today's team can truly stack up:Quarterback: Kurt Warner vs. Marc BulgerNow get this straight, Rams fans: For the basis of our comparison we are using the Warner of yesteryear with the uncanny accuracy. Remember him? We're using the QB who would stand resolute in the pocket, take a Jevon Kearse clothesline to the larynx just to get the ball off, magical late '90s Warner. We are not using the backward-bent-thumbs, my-spiky-shorn-wife-wears-the-jockstrap-in-the-family, God-got-me-benched quarterback who is a shell of his former self as a backup with the Arizona Cardinals.Bulger seems to finally be receiving the accolades he so richly deserves and is one of the elite QBs in the game. However, Warner was a touchdown-throwing machine, and Bulger, despite his impressive play, can't stack up to the otherworldly numbers amassed by Warner during that three-year span (12,612 yards, 67.2 average completion percentage, 98 TDs). Advantage: Greatest Show.Number one receiver: Isaac Bruce vs. Torry HoltIf nothing else, Rams fans, you can't complain about the quality of starting wideouts over the last 20 years. From Henry Ellard and Flipper Anderson to Holt and Bruce, the Rams have enjoyed some of the best receivers the game has ever known. It's a difficult proposition at best choosing one Hall of Famer over another in this case, and during the era in question it can be argued that Holt assumed the title of "number one" at some point. Therefore, in light of these facts and as the Bruce of that era and the Holt of today are/were nothing short of incredible, we'll take the coward's way out. Advantage: Wash.Second receiver: Torry Holt vs. Isaac Bruce Holt began his career relatively slow by his standards (788 yards and 6 touchdowns in his rookie season), then proceeded to go on a tear unlike anything the NFL had ever seen, posting 1,300-plus yards for six straight seasons until injuries last year limited him to a "mere" 1,188 yards and 10 touchdowns. However, for the basis of San Diego Chargers jersey
this comparison, we are looking at Holt as the number two during the Greatest Show era and Bruce as the number two of today. Make no mistake: Bruce could be a number one on countless NFL squads even today. He is still among the better route runners in the league and added yet another 1,000-yard season to his collection last year. However, Holt was putting up best-receiver-in-the-league-type numbers when he was a number two, and while still potent, the Bruce of today can't compare. Advantage: Greatest Show.Running Back: Marshall Faulk vs. Steven Jackson Jackson is a rare combination of strength and speed. Like a bull sporting "Predator" dreadlocks, he is equally adept at running around or over an opponent. Faulk was a smaller package, not as strong but quicker with uncanny intelligence and agility. Faulk averaged well over 5 yards per carry in the Greatest Show days and was constantly finding the endzone.Jackson has proven himself to be more than a capable receiver, but Faulk could have just as easily been a wideout in the league. Jackson may get there yet, but Faulk was deservedly the league's MVP. In short, Jackson is spectacular, but Faulk was unreal. Advantage: Greatest Show.Third receiver: Az-Zahir Hakim vs. Drew BennettHakim was exciting in his time with the Rams and made his share of big plays. Bennett is a much larger target but nowhere near as fast as the nimble Hakim. Bennett proved he could be a number one receiver in his time in Tennessee and should be a nightmare to cover when matched against an opponent's third cornerback or linebacker. The difference maker is that Bennett has one turnover in his entire career and Hakim never met a ball he didn't fumble. Advantage: 2007 Rams.Tight end: Ernie Conwell/Roland Williams vs. Randy McMichaelConwell was a willing blocker and Williams was a capable receiver, but neither had a truly significant impact in the Greatest Show years. While only an average blocker, McMichael is an adept receiver who is already proven due to his production in Miami. He could further flourish with the Pro Bowl-caliber Bulger throwing to him. McMichael is the real deal and has the quality role players from the Greatest Show beat. Advantage: 2007 Rams.Offensive Line: Let's see, there's the young, hungry, best tackle in the league inSan Francisco 49ers jersey
Orlando Pace against the still-talented, oft-injured, money-hungry Pace of today. Back then, it was a young veteran line consisting of players like Tom Nutten and Pro Bowler Adam Timmerman against the wet-nosed pups of today. And don't forget the right tackle brothers from different false-starting mothers in Alex Barron and Fred Miller. While today's line shows promise and was instrumental in assisting Steven Jackson to his 1,500-yard breakout season, Bulger still ends up on the turf in a crumpled heap with alarming consistency. The Super Bowl era Rams line was a model of teamwork and usually kept Warner upright despite not getting a lot of help because of their coach's penchant for running four-wide sets and using Faulk so often as a receiver. Advantage: Greatest Show.Fourth receiver: Ricky Proehl vs. ? If not for Proehl's famous acrobatic touchdown grab in the 1999 season's NFC Championship against Tampa Bay, we may never have heard of the Greatest Show at all. It is uncertain whether Dane Looker will assume the number four role or if the Rams will fulfill that need in the draft. Proehl's tangible, quality contributions versus a player to be named later is a no-brainer. Advantage: Greatest Show.Head Coach: Mike Martz vs. Scott Linehan The brazen, near-omnipotent machinations of Mike Martz' "Max Q" offense, or the toned down, methodical approach employed by Scott Linehan? While most fans are happy that Martz was tossed out of Rams Nation on his ear, one thing is certain concerning his time with the club: The former coach's offense is directly responsible for two Super Bowl appearances and one world championship. Even the most ardent Martz detractors must admit to this fact.While the comparison to Linehan may be unfair (considering his body of work consists of only a single season), of the Rams' current head coach we can at least say one thing: that, despite his reputation for offense, he is much more conservative when compared to Mad Mike (although, truth be told, Martz makes Don Coryell look like Chuck Knox). Linehan hasn't exactly been a model of consistency either. Errant coaching decisions must take at least a portion of the blame for both Seattle losses last season. However, Linehan's game management skills show signs of improvement, and unlike Martz, he doesn't burn timeouts because his shoe is untied.When it comes down to it, Martz was the brain behind the golden age of Rams football, and you just can't argue with the Lombardi Trophy (people would think you were crazy). Advantage: Martz Madness.It appears as if the 2007 Rams offense doesn't quite stack up to that of the Greatest Show on Turf, being outclassed 6-2 according to the given criteria. But that doesn't mean they don't belong in the conversation; and while this Seattle Seahawks jersey
comparison doesn't take defense in to account, it seems as if the Rams are one or two competent defensive tackles away from being a contender next year. Perhaps the offense won't be revisiting the glory days of the Greatest Show on Turf, and perhaps there will instead be a need for an entirely new moniker. If the new pieces can jell, though, it's certainly possible. We'll find out in September.**You can e-mail Steve Reynolds at sreynoldsOriginal NFL coverage, courtesy of RealFootball365.com (10)
2011年1月13日星期四
14 Jan 11 Saints defense comes through in win
The Dallas Cowboys might have to rethink their plans for the rest of the season. It's tough to consider yourself a playoff contender after scoring only one penalty-aided touchdown at home against the league's worst defense. Deuce McAllister ran for two touchdowns, John Carney kicked two field goals and Joe Horn added a 31-yard touchdown catch in the closing minutes, carrying the New Orleans Saints to a 27-13 victory that seriously dampened the Cowboys' wild-card chances. Dallas (5-8) had won consecutive games, including a thrilling New York Giants jersey
43-39 victory over Seattle on Monday night. With running back Julius Jones reviving the offense, Cowboys coach Bill Parcells said his team was peaking at the right time. Instead of continuing the momentum, Dallas lost at home to a team that had lost three straight and was more curious about its coach's status than its playoff possibilities. The Saints (5-8) also wound up with their first road win over the Cowboys in 10 tries. While Dallas has lost five games by at least 18 points this season, including drubbings by Philadelphia and Green Bay, this one will hurt more because of what was at stake -- and because it was so winnable. The Cowboys led 10-0 after one quarter, but managed only one field goal the rest of the game. An offense that put up 22 points in the fourth quarter against the Seahawks six days earlier hardly spent any time across midfield over the final three quarters. Most of the boos were for Vinny Testaverde, who was 14-of-35 for 167 yards with an interception that set up New Orleans' first touchdown and a fumble that ended a Dallas drive withNew York Jets jersey
1:40 left and the Cowboys trailing by a touchdown. Two plays later, Aaron Brooks hit Horn on the right sideline. He leaped over cornerback Terence Newman and went into the end zone, then celebrated by running to a sign and running a finger under the words "Remember Our Troops." What the Cowboys will remember is all the blown opportunities. They could've been up 21-0 after their first three drives, but wasted the first one with a missed field goal after getting to the 19, then got just a field goal after reaching the 18 next time. Dallas will have to win its final three just to break even and hope that's good enough to keep up Parcells' streak of always making the playoffs in his second season with a team. It won't be easy: next up is Philadelphia. The Saints were shut out in the first quarter for an 11th straight game, then tied it at 10 just before halftime. They matched Dallas at 13 midway through the third quarter and went ahead on a 5-yard TD run by McAllister with 5:21 left. McAllister ran a season-high 30 times for 83 yards and caught four passes for 37. Horn Oakland Raiders jersey
had 84 yards on five catches and Donte Stallworth had 113 yards on five catches. Brooks was 18-of-31 for 252 yards with two interceptions, the first coming in the end zone when New Orleans trailed 10-0. Dallas' Jones gained 88 yards on 23 carries, ending his NFL record-tying streak of three straight games with at least 30 rushes.
43-39 victory over Seattle on Monday night. With running back Julius Jones reviving the offense, Cowboys coach Bill Parcells said his team was peaking at the right time. Instead of continuing the momentum, Dallas lost at home to a team that had lost three straight and was more curious about its coach's status than its playoff possibilities. The Saints (5-8) also wound up with their first road win over the Cowboys in 10 tries. While Dallas has lost five games by at least 18 points this season, including drubbings by Philadelphia and Green Bay, this one will hurt more because of what was at stake -- and because it was so winnable. The Cowboys led 10-0 after one quarter, but managed only one field goal the rest of the game. An offense that put up 22 points in the fourth quarter against the Seahawks six days earlier hardly spent any time across midfield over the final three quarters. Most of the boos were for Vinny Testaverde, who was 14-of-35 for 167 yards with an interception that set up New Orleans' first touchdown and a fumble that ended a Dallas drive withNew York Jets jersey
1:40 left and the Cowboys trailing by a touchdown. Two plays later, Aaron Brooks hit Horn on the right sideline. He leaped over cornerback Terence Newman and went into the end zone, then celebrated by running to a sign and running a finger under the words "Remember Our Troops." What the Cowboys will remember is all the blown opportunities. They could've been up 21-0 after their first three drives, but wasted the first one with a missed field goal after getting to the 19, then got just a field goal after reaching the 18 next time. Dallas will have to win its final three just to break even and hope that's good enough to keep up Parcells' streak of always making the playoffs in his second season with a team. It won't be easy: next up is Philadelphia. The Saints were shut out in the first quarter for an 11th straight game, then tied it at 10 just before halftime. They matched Dallas at 13 midway through the third quarter and went ahead on a 5-yard TD run by McAllister with 5:21 left. McAllister ran a season-high 30 times for 83 yards and caught four passes for 37. Horn Oakland Raiders jersey
had 84 yards on five catches and Donte Stallworth had 113 yards on five catches. Brooks was 18-of-31 for 252 yards with two interceptions, the first coming in the end zone when New Orleans trailed 10-0. Dallas' Jones gained 88 yards on 23 carries, ending his NFL record-tying streak of three straight games with at least 30 rushes.
2011年1月12日星期三
13 Jan 11 Will Rudy Fernandez Play Tonight?
Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesAccording to oregonlive.com: In the latest news today, January 13, 2010, Rudy Fernandez is announced probable for tonight's game against the Bucks.Rudy underwent a microdiscectomy on December 8 and has not played since December 1. OnTuesday he saidthat he hopes to play between 10 and 15 minutesagainst the Bucks.How will Rudy help Portland tonight and throughout the season?Rudy's clutch three-point shot is a blessing from above; he can and will greatly contribute to the Blazers tonight. He has the ability to shoot, pass, andReebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
score, score, score. His defense is not bad either. Even though he will be fresh off an injury, I hope to see him play. He may be so-so at first, but most likely will be the same Rudy we truly missed by the second quarter.Patty Mills has been sent back to the D-League to play for the Idaho Stampede. He averaged 30 points in the two games he played for the Stampede earlier this season.A few Blazer summaries of the season...Brandon Roy is averaging 23.5 points per game this season, in 39.1 minutes a game. Andre Miller has an average of 12 points per game and 4.9 assists in 28.7 minutes.LaMarcus Aldridge has an average of 15.7 points per game and 7.9 rebounds. He plays about 35 minutes a game.Juwan Howard is averaging 5.3 points per game with 3.8 rebounds. Jerryd Bayless is putting up 8.7 points per game with 2.2 assists this season.The Blazers are currently sixth in the west; they are above .500 with a record of 23-16. They are second in the Northwest Division, behind fourth in the West, the Denver Nuggets. Portland is likely to make the playoffs for the second year in a row, Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
despite their injuries.Portland will still be missing Travis Outlaw, Nicolas Batum, Greg Oden and Joel Pryzbilla. Hopefully Rudy will be back and getting his minutes. The Blazers aim to make a run to the end. RIP City fans are the best and will encourage and support the Blazers through the fight to the playoffs.
score, score, score. His defense is not bad either. Even though he will be fresh off an injury, I hope to see him play. He may be so-so at first, but most likely will be the same Rudy we truly missed by the second quarter.Patty Mills has been sent back to the D-League to play for the Idaho Stampede. He averaged 30 points in the two games he played for the Stampede earlier this season.A few Blazer summaries of the season...Brandon Roy is averaging 23.5 points per game this season, in 39.1 minutes a game. Andre Miller has an average of 12 points per game and 4.9 assists in 28.7 minutes.LaMarcus Aldridge has an average of 15.7 points per game and 7.9 rebounds. He plays about 35 minutes a game.Juwan Howard is averaging 5.3 points per game with 3.8 rebounds. Jerryd Bayless is putting up 8.7 points per game with 2.2 assists this season.The Blazers are currently sixth in the west; they are above .500 with a record of 23-16. They are second in the Northwest Division, behind fourth in the West, the Denver Nuggets. Portland is likely to make the playoffs for the second year in a row, Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
despite their injuries.Portland will still be missing Travis Outlaw, Nicolas Batum, Greg Oden and Joel Pryzbilla. Hopefully Rudy will be back and getting his minutes. The Blazers aim to make a run to the end. RIP City fans are the best and will encourage and support the Blazers through the fight to the playoffs.
13 Jan 11 Will Rudy Fernandez Play Tonight?
Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesAccording to oregonlive.com: In the latest news today, January 13, 2010, Rudy Fernandez is announced probable for tonight's game against the Bucks.Rudy underwent a microdiscectomy on December 8 and has not played since December 1. OnTuesday he saidthat he hopes to play between 10 and 15 minutesagainst the Bucks.How will Rudy help Portland tonight and throughout the season?Rudy's clutch three-point shot is a blessing from above; he can and will greatly contribute to the Blazers tonight. He has the ability to shoot, pass, andReebok Chicago Bears #6 Jay Cutler Realtree camo Jersey
score, score, score. His defense is not bad either. Even though he will be fresh off an injury, I hope to see him play. He may be so-so at first, but most likely will be the same Rudy we truly missed by the second quarter.Patty Mills has been sent back to the D-League to play for the Idaho Stampede. He averaged 30 points in the two games he played for the Stampede earlier this season.A few Blazer summaries of the season...Brandon Roy is averaging 23.5 points per game this season, in 39.1 minutes a game. Andre Miller has an average of 12 points per game and 4.9 assists in 28.7 minutes.LaMarcus Aldridge has an average of 15.7 points per game and 7.9 rebounds. He plays about 35 minutes a game.Juwan Howard is averaging 5.3 points per game with 3.8 rebounds. Jerryd Bayless is putting up 8.7 points per game with 2.2 assists this season.The Blazers are currently sixth in the west; they are above .500 with a record of 23-16. They are second in the Northwest Division, behind fourth in the West, the Denver Nuggets. Portland is likely to make the playoffs for the second year in a row, Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
despite their injuries.Portland will still be missing Travis Outlaw, Nicolas Batum, Greg Oden and Joel Pryzbilla. Hopefully Rudy will be back and getting his minutes. The Blazers aim to make a run to the end. RIP City fans are the best and will encourage and support the Blazers through the fight to the playoffs.
score, score, score. His defense is not bad either. Even though he will be fresh off an injury, I hope to see him play. He may be so-so at first, but most likely will be the same Rudy we truly missed by the second quarter.Patty Mills has been sent back to the D-League to play for the Idaho Stampede. He averaged 30 points in the two games he played for the Stampede earlier this season.A few Blazer summaries of the season...Brandon Roy is averaging 23.5 points per game this season, in 39.1 minutes a game. Andre Miller has an average of 12 points per game and 4.9 assists in 28.7 minutes.LaMarcus Aldridge has an average of 15.7 points per game and 7.9 rebounds. He plays about 35 minutes a game.Juwan Howard is averaging 5.3 points per game with 3.8 rebounds. Jerryd Bayless is putting up 8.7 points per game with 2.2 assists this season.The Blazers are currently sixth in the west; they are above .500 with a record of 23-16. They are second in the Northwest Division, behind fourth in the West, the Denver Nuggets. Portland is likely to make the playoffs for the second year in a row, Reebok Dallas Cowboys #82 Jason Witten Realtree camo Jersey
despite their injuries.Portland will still be missing Travis Outlaw, Nicolas Batum, Greg Oden and Joel Pryzbilla. Hopefully Rudy will be back and getting his minutes. The Blazers aim to make a run to the end. RIP City fans are the best and will encourage and support the Blazers through the fight to the playoffs.
12 Jan 11 NBA All Star Reserves Revealed
Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesWhile the official 2010 NBA All-Star reserves will not be made until later today, Yahoo Sports has reportedly acquired the list of reserves, and there are some major snubs in both the East and Western Conferences, but lets start with the guys who made the cut.EASTERN CONFERENCE:Guards: Derrick Rose and Rajon Rondo will make their All-Star game debuts February 14.Guard/Forwards: Paul Pierce, Joe Johnson, Gerald WallaceForward/Center: Chris Bosh, Al Horford.Left off the Chicago Bears jersey
the team is New York Knicks standout David Lee who has 26 double-doubles this season and is leading all centers in the east in scoring and assists per game. Lee also ranks third in rebounds.WESTERN CONFERENCE:Guards: Deron Williams, Chris Paul, Brandon RoyForward: Kevin Durant, Dirk NowitzkiForward/Center: Pau Gasol, Zack Randolph.Guards Chauncey Billups and Monta Ellis were left off this years roster, as well as Clippers' center Chris Kaman.
the team is New York Knicks standout David Lee who has 26 double-doubles this season and is leading all centers in the east in scoring and assists per game. Lee also ranks third in rebounds.WESTERN CONFERENCE:Guards: Deron Williams, Chris Paul, Brandon RoyForward: Kevin Durant, Dirk NowitzkiForward/Center: Pau Gasol, Zack Randolph.Guards Chauncey Billups and Monta Ellis were left off this years roster, as well as Clippers' center Chris Kaman.
12 Jan 11 Are You Joakim: Noah Should Be On The NBA All-Star Team
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesI suppose I shouldn't be greedy with Derrick Rose becoming the Chicago Bulls first all-star since Michael Jordan in 1998, but I really think Joakim Noah got jobbed not making the team.Whatsteams me even more is that his former Florida teammate, Al Horford, beat him out for the post position.For a guy who lookedlike Bozo on draft day, Noah is no clown.Comparing the two, Horford averages 13.6 ppg along with 9.8 rebounds and 1.3 blocks. Noah is at 11.3 ppg with 12.1 rebounds and 1.7 blocks.Looking at the numbers you might not think there is much of a difference and statistically there isn't. But when you watch them play on the court, there is no doubt who the more valuable player to his team is.Noah is the second best player on the Bulls, and until Rose recovered from his preseason injury and got back to full strength, he was the one keeping them in the race.Horford is maybe the fourth best player on Atlanta; definitely behind Joe Johnson, Josh Smith, and Jamal Crawford.You also have to take into consideration the magnitude of the numbers pertaining to the position. Rebounding, blocked shots, and defense are more important to the post position than scoring, and Horford is only averaging a bucket more a game than Noah.His numbers are very pedestrian for a center, especially when you take his rebound numbers into account.Noah is second in the league in that category. He wipes theglass clean on the defensive end, and he's like the energizer bunny on the offensive boards, constantly hopping around until he either tips in the bucket or gets it out to a teammate for another shot.An intangible that doesn't show on paper is his hustle. Is there a player in the league that plays harder on a daily basis than Joakim Noah? If you're watching the Bullsday in and out, I know your answer is no.He's also vastly improved as an offensive player. He can put the ball on the floor and drive to the hole and finish. He's also got a couple ofnice moves around the basket along with a baby hook that is effective.I know he's got one of the ugliest outside shots in the NBA, and based on that shot, he looks like he just started playing the game, but it's also starting to go in more often. It doesn't matter what it looks like as long as it goes down.Or course as always, there are outcries from other cities that their players didn't make the team.The "Big Apple" is crying over the exclusion of David Lee and I can't blame them. He's another player that goes all out and probably deserved to make the team, but I think the system he plays under with the Knicks and Mike D'Antoni tends to pad statistics. I don't think he would have those numbers if he played for someone else.People say Horford's teammate Josh Smith should have made the team, but for the position he played, his numbers are nothing special. Looking spectacular at times doesn't warrant an all-star berth. Otherwise Tyrus Thomas of the Bullswould be on the squad.There are a few other players including Andrew Bogut of the Milwaukee Bucks that were mentioned as possible omissions.NBA.com had a poll of the East's biggest snubs and Noah, Lee, Smith, and Bogut were on it with Lee getting 42% of the vote, Smith 41%, Noah at 10% and Bogut at 8%.Obviously the voting was based on numbers, which should not be the only criteria when selecting a player for the team.Sean Devaney of Sporting News Today even had the gall to suggest Derrick Rose shouldn't have made the team. In his blog, he said, "As nice a season as Rose has had, he really shouldn't have been an all-star, not yet, at least."He continued with "putting him on the team, coaches who voted for the reserves ignored more worthy candidates."He then went on to name Josh Smith and two players from the Western Conference that Derrick Rose had no influence over.Without Derrick Rose, the Chicago Bulls would be the New Jersey Nets.Why not name the aforementioned Horford who denied his teammate Smith?What about Paul Pierce, who made the team on reputation and isn't really an all-star anymore?The bottom line is there are always going to be debates about who should have made the team. Fans are going to be homers andback their home town favorites.You could accuse me of that too.But watching Noah play this year, and looking at his competition in the East, no one can tell me he didn't belong on the team.
2011年1月10日星期一
10 Jan 11 Can the Knicks sign Bron and Melo?
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesWhile the 2011 market may not have as many stars, it isn lacking in big names, either. Carmelo Anthony, Pau Gasol , Caron Butler, Tim Duncan, Tony Parker , David West and Tayshaun Prince could all be changing zip codes two summers from now.-ESPNThe Knicks put themselves in position to sign two max players and re-sign David Lee in the off-season. However, if they sign one player like a Lebron , Bosh , Wade , Amare or Joe Johnson they could sign another player in 2011. In a perfect world all Knicks fans would like to see James and Anthony on the Knicks. Donnie Walsh should not feel pressured to sign two players to max deals this summer if he feels they would not be a good fit. Walsh also needs to spend money wisely on roster Minnesota Vikings
slots because they traded their 2012 first-round pick in the Tracy McGrady deal.How can this work:1) Eddy Curry has an expiring contract next season ($11.2 million)2) Knicks do not have a first round pick in 2012 (no salary against the cap)3) Melo has an ETO in his contract (early termination option)4) The Knicks have an estimated $31.5 million available in cap space (first time in 14 years they have been under the cap)5) Sergio Rodriguez can be retained by exercising a $2.3 million qualifying offer (good deal for a potential starting point guard)
slots because they traded their 2012 first-round pick in the Tracy McGrady deal.How can this work:1) Eddy Curry has an expiring contract next season ($11.2 million)2) Knicks do not have a first round pick in 2012 (no salary against the cap)3) Melo has an ETO in his contract (early termination option)4) The Knicks have an estimated $31.5 million available in cap space (first time in 14 years they have been under the cap)5) Sergio Rodriguez can be retained by exercising a $2.3 million qualifying offer (good deal for a potential starting point guard)
2011年1月9日星期日
9 Jan 11 Keys To The Wolf Den: Al Jefferson's Charge Will Speak Volumes About Wolves
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesThe Minnesota Timberwolves suffered a setback when the Timberwolves star Al Jefferson was arrested for a DWI, pending a court charge in April, and followed by a two-game suspension that will leave the Wolves without their leading scorer, andsecondleading rebounder."I want to apologize to the entire Timberwolves organization, owner Glen Taylor, my teammates, coaches and Wolves fans everywhere for my actions last night. I made a very poor decision and I am truly sorry for that. As a leader on this team, I know that more is Reebok New York Jets #6 Mark Sanchez Realtree camo Jersey
expected of me, and I am disappointed in myself. I will learn from my mistake so that it does not happen again. I fully understand and support the organization's disciplinary action. I will continue to work both on and off the court to be the best person I can be."Without Jefferson, the Minnesota Timberwolves will rely on Ryan Gomes, Ryan Hollins, Kevin Love, and Darko Milicic to contribute in the frontcourtespecially Love.Love, arguably the best rebounding power forward in the NBA, is averaging 15 PPGand 11 RPG, shooting 46 percent from the field and 39 percent from the three-point line. He's only 21 years old and clearly has all-star potential written all over him. Although extremely talented, Love has only played 35-plus minutes twice this season, and seeing that he's only averaging 29 MPG, his production per/40 is leading the NBA in rebounds.Slam Magazine has stated that Love is the Wolves future star; his numbers would suggest so, and possibly an increased role seeing that Jefferson is out. This will provide a small sample as to how the Wolves will look with Love playing the majority of the minutes at the power forward position.Love does a ton of fundamental things, such as boxing out much bigger opponents, throwing outlet passes, and making an honest effort on the defensive end. It will be interesting to see how Love will handle more minutes. But he won't be alone.Milicic, acquired with cash considerations for Brian Cardinal, has helped the Wolves in more fundamental ways, providing size and unorthodox play to compliment very little knowledge in the triangle offense, yet is enough to blend in because of his basketball I.Q.Having not played for three months, Milicic gets winded within 10 minutes of intense basketball play, but despite that has averaged 4.4 PPG, 5.0 RPG, and 2.2 BPGReebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
in 20 MPG.It's possible that the production, stats wise, are limited due to his conditioning, but as a Timberwolf, he's already leading the Wolves in blocks, and still has to get acclimated to the triangle offense that took the Wolves two months to crack 100-plus points on a regular basis.These two games should provide the young Wolves with a sense of urgency, hopefully using these last 20 games as a learning experience to get ready for next season. With that being said, here should be the lineup for the next two games.PG- Flynn/SessionsSG- Brewer/EllingtonSF- Gomes/BrewerPF- Love/GomesC- Hollins/MilicicThanks for reading!
expected of me, and I am disappointed in myself. I will learn from my mistake so that it does not happen again. I fully understand and support the organization's disciplinary action. I will continue to work both on and off the court to be the best person I can be."Without Jefferson, the Minnesota Timberwolves will rely on Ryan Gomes, Ryan Hollins, Kevin Love, and Darko Milicic to contribute in the frontcourtespecially Love.Love, arguably the best rebounding power forward in the NBA, is averaging 15 PPGand 11 RPG, shooting 46 percent from the field and 39 percent from the three-point line. He's only 21 years old and clearly has all-star potential written all over him. Although extremely talented, Love has only played 35-plus minutes twice this season, and seeing that he's only averaging 29 MPG, his production per/40 is leading the NBA in rebounds.Slam Magazine has stated that Love is the Wolves future star; his numbers would suggest so, and possibly an increased role seeing that Jefferson is out. This will provide a small sample as to how the Wolves will look with Love playing the majority of the minutes at the power forward position.Love does a ton of fundamental things, such as boxing out much bigger opponents, throwing outlet passes, and making an honest effort on the defensive end. It will be interesting to see how Love will handle more minutes. But he won't be alone.Milicic, acquired with cash considerations for Brian Cardinal, has helped the Wolves in more fundamental ways, providing size and unorthodox play to compliment very little knowledge in the triangle offense, yet is enough to blend in because of his basketball I.Q.Having not played for three months, Milicic gets winded within 10 minutes of intense basketball play, but despite that has averaged 4.4 PPG, 5.0 RPG, and 2.2 BPGReebok Oakland Raiders #21 Nnamdi Asomugha Realtree camo Jersey
in 20 MPG.It's possible that the production, stats wise, are limited due to his conditioning, but as a Timberwolf, he's already leading the Wolves in blocks, and still has to get acclimated to the triangle offense that took the Wolves two months to crack 100-plus points on a regular basis.These two games should provide the young Wolves with a sense of urgency, hopefully using these last 20 games as a learning experience to get ready for next season. With that being said, here should be the lineup for the next two games.PG- Flynn/SessionsSG- Brewer/EllingtonSF- Gomes/BrewerPF- Love/GomesC- Hollins/MilicicThanks for reading!
2011年1月8日星期六
8 Jan 11 The Best and Worst Contracts On The Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers are the NBA's most valuable franchise, both in terms of profitability and popularity.Not only do they reside in the bright lights of Hollywood with the most star-studded roster in the league, but they also have the rings to back it up. The Lakers are not only one of Reebok Green Bay Packers 21 Charles Woodson Realtree camo Jersey
the most successful franchises in all of sports, they are one of the most iconic.Such prosperity can be grown only through the acumen of an owner like Dr. Jerry Buss and the various general managers he's employed. They built two dynasties this past decade, something possible only through a series of outstanding trades, signings, and draft picks.However, not all contracts are created equal.Let's take a look at the best and worst contracts on the Lakers' roster, from worst to best.BASKETBAWFUL CONTRACTS13) Luke Walton: $21.8 million over four years Originally a prize coming out of the second round of the draft, Walton is now the bane of the Lakers' salary cap. He averaged 11 points in 2007 as a starter (alongside Smush Parker and Kwame Brown), which was enough to convince management to blow its entire midlevel exception and lock him up for six years.He's a tremendous passer who's even better in Phil Jackson's system, but they'll be paying him over $6 million in 2013, which is almost Lamar Odom/Ron Artest money. That's more than bad for a, at best, fourth forward off the bench. That's easily the worst contract on the team.Don't fool yourself. Those Luuuuuuuuke! chants that sound like Booooooo! really are boos.12) Sasha Vujacic: $10.5 million, two years Lakers fans thought we had something special. Vujacic still thinks so, and still chucks up a shot every time he catches the ball. In 2008 he shot 43 percent from behind the arc, capping the year with 20 points in Game Three of the NBA Finals.It was a fluke.The Lakers had the choice to use their mid-level exception on him or Ronny Turiaf, and they chose Slovenia's favorite son (and Paris Hilton's bff ) while letting our Caribbean brother walk to Golden State.To add insult to injury, not only is Vujacic ultra-emotional every time he's called for a foul, but his nickname violates the two sacred rules of nicknames: 1) it's lame and 2) it's self-imposed. As such, I'm not even going to type it.After least after his contract is up he can still make money off merchandise (headbands included!).11) Adam Morrison: $5.3 million, one year The worst high draft pick ever because he doesn't even belong in the league. In any role. Anywhere. And he's getting paid more than Kevin Durant. The fact that his contract expires after this season is the only reason he's not the worst contract in the league.MID-LEVELERS10) Derek Fisher: $5 million, one year Fish will never be able to command $5 mil a season again. But he has played out his contract with pride and dignity, and the intangible qualities he's brought to the franchise are worth more than any paycheck he's received.He brought respectability back to the Lakers. Improving the point guard position exponentially when he replaced Smush Parker. Providing a trusting voice when Kobe was sick of the team. And providing a sure, experienced hand in the playoffs.Last year's championship belongs to him as much as anyone. And who can forget that grin in Game 4 of the Finals?With that said, it's time for Fisher to sign at a much lower rate, in a mentoring role with much less time on the court. He could be a valuable asset to the franchise for the next 50 years on the bench, and it's soon time to make that transition.9) Ron Artest: $34 million, five years We got Ron Ron on the cheap. He was once the league's greatest two-way player and is still it's best wing defender. He signed for the mid-level exception despite his All-Star talent because he wanted to come to L.A.We had to compromise a little on the contract, so we gave him Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
the security of five guaranteed years. Artest is an upgrade over Ariza in the short term. He provides a grit and tenacity they've had only in Kobe, while relieving No. 24 of many of his defensive duties.But five years from now, when Artest is 35 and Ariza is in his prime, that contract is going to be an albatross around the Lakers' cap.PERFECTLY ADEQUATE8 7) DJ Mbenga/Josh Powell: $900,000 apiece, one year These guys make the minimum and fulfill their roles. Powell has a nice jumper and Mbenga provides another big body to occasionally spell Pau from bruisers in the league. Plus, the fans love him. You love him even more when you learn more about him .THE FUTURE6) Andrew Bynum: $57.9 million, four years This contract causes the most contention among Lakers fans. NBA fans in general consider him overpaid, but most Lakers fans disagree. I disagree completely. In fact, he's a little underpaid.Bynum is the second most important player on the Lakers, right behind Kobe. He's not the second best, as Pau Gasol is still the better player, but he is the foundation of the franchise's blueprint for the future.Remember, he's still only 22.The last year of his contract is a team option for $16.4 million. You can bet the Lakers will be picking that up. That will be right about the time we transition from the Kobe years to the Bynum years.THE SUPERSTARS5) Pau Gasol: $91.3 million, five years Pau isn't underpaid, but he's still underrated.Absolutely. 100 percent. Underrated. And underappreciated. Still.Try to think back to what things were like before Pau arrived. Back-to-back first-round losses in the playoffs. Forty-two or so wins a year. And Kobe begging to play on Pluto (seriously ).In the two seasons since Pau arrived: 80 percent winning percentage in games he's played, two Finals appearances, one championship, one happy superstar, and a franchise positioned to win multiple championships over multiple years.Case closed.4) Kobe Bryant: $47.8 million over 2 years It goes beyond on-court production. The offseason workouts. The fire he constantly lights under teammates. Kobe is why the Lakers are the league's biggest draw on the road. He has the league's top-selling jersey. He's a bigger celebrity in China than Yao Ming.Dr. Buss knows better than anyone that the product he Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
puts out on the floor can't just be good, it needs to be as big as Hollywood. He needs a star. A star big enough to pull all the stars in Los Angeles inside Staples Center 41 times a year plus playoff games.That's the reason why Kobe couldn't get traded when he demanded a trade. The Lakers would never accept just cap room. They'd never accept just draft picks. Or just prospects. Or a combination of the three.They needed a superstar back. And the only one they could get at that time was... Kobe.He's why fans buy the most expensive tickets in the league to watch the Lakers. He's the one who makes Dr. Buss his money.However, with all that said, I can't say he's the best contract on the Lakers, because it's pretty simple. Kobe's a max player, so he gets paid the max.Although that extension still hasn't been worked out, and with the new collective bargaining agreement brewing and a hard cap potentially looming, maybe things aren't so simple after all.LOW COST, HIGH YIELD PLAYERS3 2 ) Jordan Farmar and Shannon Brown: $4.8 and $4.2 million, respectively, over two years I love these contracts. They are so cheap and both players are so good. The Lakers do have an opening at point guard that Farmar hasn't taken for himself yet. Maybe he's destined to be a backup. Maybe the triangle isn't the best fit for him. Regardless, I like what he brings to the table, especially at that price.The Shannon Brown love in Lakers Nation is hot and heavy. He could have made more money elsewhere, but signed for the low price of $2 million this season to stay with a winner where he was well-liked and had a defined role (see, what Ariza gave up).With his Inspector Gadget-like hops (poor dunk contest showing aside) and a spark pluggy effect off the bench, he's combined with Farmar to make our weakness at point guard more palatable, or at least fun to watch.THE BEST CONTRACT1) Lamar Odom: $32.8 million, four years I'm a hopeless Odom romantic. I gushed about him enough in a previous article, but I remain tantalized by his skill set.He tops off the reason why opposing teams always complain about the "Lakers' length." He's our mismatch. Our game-changer off the bench. And he's been super-underrated in crunch time over the past few years.Dr. Buss played hardball with Odom thisArizona Cardinals jersey
summer over contract negotiations. Fortunately, we didn't lose him. And for a player of his talent, he's on the books for a cool $8 mil per year for four years (with the final year being a team option), which is just long enough to maximize Kobe's final years playing at a high level.Image taken from HoopsHype.What do you guys think? Shout out below, I'd love to hear what Lakers Nation has to say on the subject.
the most successful franchises in all of sports, they are one of the most iconic.Such prosperity can be grown only through the acumen of an owner like Dr. Jerry Buss and the various general managers he's employed. They built two dynasties this past decade, something possible only through a series of outstanding trades, signings, and draft picks.However, not all contracts are created equal.Let's take a look at the best and worst contracts on the Lakers' roster, from worst to best.BASKETBAWFUL CONTRACTS13) Luke Walton: $21.8 million over four years Originally a prize coming out of the second round of the draft, Walton is now the bane of the Lakers' salary cap. He averaged 11 points in 2007 as a starter (alongside Smush Parker and Kwame Brown), which was enough to convince management to blow its entire midlevel exception and lock him up for six years.He's a tremendous passer who's even better in Phil Jackson's system, but they'll be paying him over $6 million in 2013, which is almost Lamar Odom/Ron Artest money. That's more than bad for a, at best, fourth forward off the bench. That's easily the worst contract on the team.Don't fool yourself. Those Luuuuuuuuke! chants that sound like Booooooo! really are boos.12) Sasha Vujacic: $10.5 million, two years Lakers fans thought we had something special. Vujacic still thinks so, and still chucks up a shot every time he catches the ball. In 2008 he shot 43 percent from behind the arc, capping the year with 20 points in Game Three of the NBA Finals.It was a fluke.The Lakers had the choice to use their mid-level exception on him or Ronny Turiaf, and they chose Slovenia's favorite son (and Paris Hilton's bff ) while letting our Caribbean brother walk to Golden State.To add insult to injury, not only is Vujacic ultra-emotional every time he's called for a foul, but his nickname violates the two sacred rules of nicknames: 1) it's lame and 2) it's self-imposed. As such, I'm not even going to type it.After least after his contract is up he can still make money off merchandise (headbands included!).11) Adam Morrison: $5.3 million, one year The worst high draft pick ever because he doesn't even belong in the league. In any role. Anywhere. And he's getting paid more than Kevin Durant. The fact that his contract expires after this season is the only reason he's not the worst contract in the league.MID-LEVELERS10) Derek Fisher: $5 million, one year Fish will never be able to command $5 mil a season again. But he has played out his contract with pride and dignity, and the intangible qualities he's brought to the franchise are worth more than any paycheck he's received.He brought respectability back to the Lakers. Improving the point guard position exponentially when he replaced Smush Parker. Providing a trusting voice when Kobe was sick of the team. And providing a sure, experienced hand in the playoffs.Last year's championship belongs to him as much as anyone. And who can forget that grin in Game 4 of the Finals?With that said, it's time for Fisher to sign at a much lower rate, in a mentoring role with much less time on the court. He could be a valuable asset to the franchise for the next 50 years on the bench, and it's soon time to make that transition.9) Ron Artest: $34 million, five years We got Ron Ron on the cheap. He was once the league's greatest two-way player and is still it's best wing defender. He signed for the mid-level exception despite his All-Star talent because he wanted to come to L.A.We had to compromise a little on the contract, so we gave him Reebok Minnesota Vikings #84 Randy Moss Realtree camo Jersey
the security of five guaranteed years. Artest is an upgrade over Ariza in the short term. He provides a grit and tenacity they've had only in Kobe, while relieving No. 24 of many of his defensive duties.But five years from now, when Artest is 35 and Ariza is in his prime, that contract is going to be an albatross around the Lakers' cap.PERFECTLY ADEQUATE8 7) DJ Mbenga/Josh Powell: $900,000 apiece, one year These guys make the minimum and fulfill their roles. Powell has a nice jumper and Mbenga provides another big body to occasionally spell Pau from bruisers in the league. Plus, the fans love him. You love him even more when you learn more about him .THE FUTURE6) Andrew Bynum: $57.9 million, four years This contract causes the most contention among Lakers fans. NBA fans in general consider him overpaid, but most Lakers fans disagree. I disagree completely. In fact, he's a little underpaid.Bynum is the second most important player on the Lakers, right behind Kobe. He's not the second best, as Pau Gasol is still the better player, but he is the foundation of the franchise's blueprint for the future.Remember, he's still only 22.The last year of his contract is a team option for $16.4 million. You can bet the Lakers will be picking that up. That will be right about the time we transition from the Kobe years to the Bynum years.THE SUPERSTARS5) Pau Gasol: $91.3 million, five years Pau isn't underpaid, but he's still underrated.Absolutely. 100 percent. Underrated. And underappreciated. Still.Try to think back to what things were like before Pau arrived. Back-to-back first-round losses in the playoffs. Forty-two or so wins a year. And Kobe begging to play on Pluto (seriously ).In the two seasons since Pau arrived: 80 percent winning percentage in games he's played, two Finals appearances, one championship, one happy superstar, and a franchise positioned to win multiple championships over multiple years.Case closed.4) Kobe Bryant: $47.8 million over 2 years It goes beyond on-court production. The offseason workouts. The fire he constantly lights under teammates. Kobe is why the Lakers are the league's biggest draw on the road. He has the league's top-selling jersey. He's a bigger celebrity in China than Yao Ming.Dr. Buss knows better than anyone that the product he Reebok Pittsburg Steelers #83 Heath Miller Realtree camo Jersey
puts out on the floor can't just be good, it needs to be as big as Hollywood. He needs a star. A star big enough to pull all the stars in Los Angeles inside Staples Center 41 times a year plus playoff games.That's the reason why Kobe couldn't get traded when he demanded a trade. The Lakers would never accept just cap room. They'd never accept just draft picks. Or just prospects. Or a combination of the three.They needed a superstar back. And the only one they could get at that time was... Kobe.He's why fans buy the most expensive tickets in the league to watch the Lakers. He's the one who makes Dr. Buss his money.However, with all that said, I can't say he's the best contract on the Lakers, because it's pretty simple. Kobe's a max player, so he gets paid the max.Although that extension still hasn't been worked out, and with the new collective bargaining agreement brewing and a hard cap potentially looming, maybe things aren't so simple after all.LOW COST, HIGH YIELD PLAYERS3 2 ) Jordan Farmar and Shannon Brown: $4.8 and $4.2 million, respectively, over two years I love these contracts. They are so cheap and both players are so good. The Lakers do have an opening at point guard that Farmar hasn't taken for himself yet. Maybe he's destined to be a backup. Maybe the triangle isn't the best fit for him. Regardless, I like what he brings to the table, especially at that price.The Shannon Brown love in Lakers Nation is hot and heavy. He could have made more money elsewhere, but signed for the low price of $2 million this season to stay with a winner where he was well-liked and had a defined role (see, what Ariza gave up).With his Inspector Gadget-like hops (poor dunk contest showing aside) and a spark pluggy effect off the bench, he's combined with Farmar to make our weakness at point guard more palatable, or at least fun to watch.THE BEST CONTRACT1) Lamar Odom: $32.8 million, four years I'm a hopeless Odom romantic. I gushed about him enough in a previous article, but I remain tantalized by his skill set.He tops off the reason why opposing teams always complain about the "Lakers' length." He's our mismatch. Our game-changer off the bench. And he's been super-underrated in crunch time over the past few years.Dr. Buss played hardball with Odom thisArizona Cardinals jersey
summer over contract negotiations. Fortunately, we didn't lose him. And for a player of his talent, he's on the books for a cool $8 mil per year for four years (with the final year being a team option), which is just long enough to maximize Kobe's final years playing at a high level.Image taken from HoopsHype.What do you guys think? Shout out below, I'd love to hear what Lakers Nation has to say on the subject.
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