So much going on in the world, and especially our country these days. Sports seems a bit insignificant. Between watching the government work (or attempt to work depending on your point of view), and seeing the stock market take a beating on Monday, I was also fighting off one of those great summer colds. Enough whining, let's get on with it.
The Carolina Panthers looked good, but not great against Atlanta on Sunday. Part of that was Atlanta being good, but not great, and the other was Carolina having to deal wit4h some injuries. We'll find out more on Jordan Gross and Jeff Otah on Wednesday--smart money says Gross misses Sunday's game with Kansas City after suffering a scary concussion against the Falcons. Freak play, and I'm glad it wasn't worse.
Carolina still committed some mental errors, but not nearly as many as they had in the previous 3 games. A 3-1 start is pretty stout, with a chance to get to 4-01 against KC. That game is no gimme, now that the Chiefs found a win against Denver. Confidence breeds success. Kinda wish the stock market had some of that these days. Sorry for the crossover, there.
Charlotte Bobcats opened training camp ion Wilmington this morning. I like the prospect of this team actually being decent. i won't call them playoff contenders, but the pieces are there in the form of personnel. Now they have a bonafide Head Coach in Larry Brown. Some say Brown is worth 4 more wins this season. I would think the number is higher. It shall be interesting to watch this team grow over the course of the season.
Baseball fans, I apologize to all of you for the behavior of my beloved Chicago White Sox. They are the ones that lost 5 of their last 6 games, which led to a mandatory make-up game Monday against Detroit, which has now led them to a winner-take-all meeting with Minnesota tonight. I know everyone wants to talk playoffs, but until the A.L. Central gets squared away, y'all have to wait. Had the Sox done things the right way, they would be in Tampa getting ready for the Rays already.
Will break into the college football chatter later in the week--how 'bout them Heels and Blue Devils? Nice wins for both last weekend. Tough sledding for ECU, NC State and Wake. We'll talk more on them before the weekend.
As for me, I'm taking the evening away from the desk, trying to recuperate from this bout of the sneezes and sniffles. Tim Baier and Ryan Welch will take you through Sports Night at 10, so check them out. We'll hear from Adam Morrison, Bobcats forward on the mend from major knee surgery a year ago, plus hear from the Panthers, ACC football chatter, NASCAR and more.
Mike Solarte
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Friday, September 26, 2008
Spraying to all fields
It is Friday, and in addition to the Discount Tire Friday Night Final, I have a lot on my mind. So, here goes.
College football picks:
Without breaking down game tape, my picks for teams of importance in the state look like this.
ECU beats Houston - ECU bounces back from NC State loss.
Duke beats Virginia - Duke finally gets a conference win in forever.
Miami edges UNC - the T.J. Yates injury could be a dagger.
South Florida over NC State - Classic back-up game for the Pack.
Wake over Navy - Wake outlasts the Middies.
The Panthers and Falcons should be a dandy game. Again, not getting too in-depth on the matchup, this one will simply boil down to which team decides they want to grab control of the division. In the past, the Panthers have consistently failed to show that killer instinct when there was a lot on the line. This team has the potential to do that, it's just a matter of them getting the job done. I would like to see the Panthers negate the pass rush of John Abraham, by pounding the ball on the ground on offense. On defense, I want to see Julius Peppers blow up the man in front of him, and make Matt Ryan run for his life. Granted, the Falcons have a running game now, with Michael Turner carrying the mail, so sacks could be hard to find. This is a good week 4 game for both teams, after each went 2-1 in their first 3. Likely a true barometer for Atlanta, and an atonement kind of game for Carolina.
Personally, I don't think highly of Atlanta. Their 2 wins came against Kansas City and Detroit--two teams that would have a hard time with Oregon State (the way they played USC on Thursday night). This week, they will face a defense that has the ability to bottle up the run, and make things uncomfortable for a rookie QB.
I'm going Panthers, by 4, something like 24-20.
Now, the thing that is stuck in my craw, is the Uptown Charlotte ballpark for the Charlotte Knights. And it should be pointed out that this is my opinion, and does not represent the opinion of News 14 Carolina or Time Warner Cable.
Everyone has an opinion on this. Tax payers don't want to subsidize a new park, and I get that. The Knights would be responsible for a bulk of the costs of building the park. The thing that gets me is Jerry Reese. Just what is his problem?
Is he fighting for the greater good by trying to stonewall this project? Is he fighting for the citizens of Mecklenburg County in this pursuit of blocking construction? If that is how he feels, then he is wrong. He is not fighting for me. He is not representing my interests. All he is doing is standing in the way of progress on this, because he believes Charlotte can be a Major League Baseball city.
I'll wait, so you can finish laughing.
This is a city that has great fans, but think about this: If the Charlotte Bobcats are not selling out a 19,000 seat venue for 40+ dates a year, how will this area (and not just the city, but the surrounding towns) supports a facility (and team) that would likely have a capacity of (and this is just a guess) 50,000? A ballpark in Uptown Charlotte has a better chance of having 5,000-7,000 fans in it each night with the businesses, and such that are there. Minor league baseball is cheaper on the fans wallet than the majors are. Check the ticket prices out. You'll see the differences. A family can go to a game, and still have some money left over.
Major League Baseball, incidentally, has been rather quiet about the whole thing. In fact, I don't believe that the league has even mentioned the word Charlotte, other than to say it is the home of the Chicago White Sox International League affiliate. Charlotte has been used as a threat in the past--when teams want a new stadium and threaten to relocate. The Florida Marlins were one of the teams that said "hey, what about Charlotte?" once, and if I recall, the Montreal Expos did, too. Well, the Marlins are still in Miami, and Montreal went to Washington, D.C.
Here's what I want to know. What is Jerry Reese getting out of all this? Is he in line for a huge windfall if an MLB team does come to Charlotte? Is he holding this up because he just wants a nice patch of grass he can walk barefoot in? What is the motivating factor for him? If I had to guess, I would say that no Uptown park means more money in his pocket from someone. I have no proof of this, I am just offering a thought, and if my thought turns out to be true, then baseball fans in the Charlotte area are truly being struck out. All due respect to Knights Stadium in Fort Mill, it's a nice park, but it is not the place for a team based in Charlotte.
It's time we got to the real reasons this plan is being held up by Mr. Reese. Enough of the grandstanding. Just come out and tell everyone why this is taking place. Rather than say things like (paraphrasing) "I will use every resource to block this project," come out and tell the truth.
Hard to believe one individual can stop the progress of a ballpark, especially since the guy stopping it isn't the one writing the checks to build it.
OK, off my soapbox. Enjoy the weekend!
Mike Solarte
College football picks:
Without breaking down game tape, my picks for teams of importance in the state look like this.
ECU beats Houston - ECU bounces back from NC State loss.
Duke beats Virginia - Duke finally gets a conference win in forever.
Miami edges UNC - the T.J. Yates injury could be a dagger.
South Florida over NC State - Classic back-up game for the Pack.
Wake over Navy - Wake outlasts the Middies.
The Panthers and Falcons should be a dandy game. Again, not getting too in-depth on the matchup, this one will simply boil down to which team decides they want to grab control of the division. In the past, the Panthers have consistently failed to show that killer instinct when there was a lot on the line. This team has the potential to do that, it's just a matter of them getting the job done. I would like to see the Panthers negate the pass rush of John Abraham, by pounding the ball on the ground on offense. On defense, I want to see Julius Peppers blow up the man in front of him, and make Matt Ryan run for his life. Granted, the Falcons have a running game now, with Michael Turner carrying the mail, so sacks could be hard to find. This is a good week 4 game for both teams, after each went 2-1 in their first 3. Likely a true barometer for Atlanta, and an atonement kind of game for Carolina.
Personally, I don't think highly of Atlanta. Their 2 wins came against Kansas City and Detroit--two teams that would have a hard time with Oregon State (the way they played USC on Thursday night). This week, they will face a defense that has the ability to bottle up the run, and make things uncomfortable for a rookie QB.
I'm going Panthers, by 4, something like 24-20.
Now, the thing that is stuck in my craw, is the Uptown Charlotte ballpark for the Charlotte Knights. And it should be pointed out that this is my opinion, and does not represent the opinion of News 14 Carolina or Time Warner Cable.
Everyone has an opinion on this. Tax payers don't want to subsidize a new park, and I get that. The Knights would be responsible for a bulk of the costs of building the park. The thing that gets me is Jerry Reese. Just what is his problem?
Is he fighting for the greater good by trying to stonewall this project? Is he fighting for the citizens of Mecklenburg County in this pursuit of blocking construction? If that is how he feels, then he is wrong. He is not fighting for me. He is not representing my interests. All he is doing is standing in the way of progress on this, because he believes Charlotte can be a Major League Baseball city.
I'll wait, so you can finish laughing.
This is a city that has great fans, but think about this: If the Charlotte Bobcats are not selling out a 19,000 seat venue for 40+ dates a year, how will this area (and not just the city, but the surrounding towns) supports a facility (and team) that would likely have a capacity of (and this is just a guess) 50,000? A ballpark in Uptown Charlotte has a better chance of having 5,000-7,000 fans in it each night with the businesses, and such that are there. Minor league baseball is cheaper on the fans wallet than the majors are. Check the ticket prices out. You'll see the differences. A family can go to a game, and still have some money left over.
Major League Baseball, incidentally, has been rather quiet about the whole thing. In fact, I don't believe that the league has even mentioned the word Charlotte, other than to say it is the home of the Chicago White Sox International League affiliate. Charlotte has been used as a threat in the past--when teams want a new stadium and threaten to relocate. The Florida Marlins were one of the teams that said "hey, what about Charlotte?" once, and if I recall, the Montreal Expos did, too. Well, the Marlins are still in Miami, and Montreal went to Washington, D.C.
Here's what I want to know. What is Jerry Reese getting out of all this? Is he in line for a huge windfall if an MLB team does come to Charlotte? Is he holding this up because he just wants a nice patch of grass he can walk barefoot in? What is the motivating factor for him? If I had to guess, I would say that no Uptown park means more money in his pocket from someone. I have no proof of this, I am just offering a thought, and if my thought turns out to be true, then baseball fans in the Charlotte area are truly being struck out. All due respect to Knights Stadium in Fort Mill, it's a nice park, but it is not the place for a team based in Charlotte.
It's time we got to the real reasons this plan is being held up by Mr. Reese. Enough of the grandstanding. Just come out and tell everyone why this is taking place. Rather than say things like (paraphrasing) "I will use every resource to block this project," come out and tell the truth.
Hard to believe one individual can stop the progress of a ballpark, especially since the guy stopping it isn't the one writing the checks to build it.
OK, off my soapbox. Enjoy the weekend!
Mike Solarte
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
The aftermath of week 3
Well, I had a clunker of a weekend picking games--whiffed on the Panthers, ECU, and Carolina. Did manage Wake over FSU, but other than that, el stinko.
The Panther loss to Minnesota was simply this--all of the little things amounted to Vikings positives. Panther false starts, blocks in the back, holding, you name it, they did it. It was the worst the Panthers have looked all season--and they lost by 10. Couple things to keep in mind, here. Adrian Peterson was banged up, but still played and ran for 77 yards. The Vikings got 1 TD off of a turnover, and one from their offense. Panthers lone score came from their offense. Give credit where it's due--The Vikes were just better that day. Do I think they are better overall? If they are in the Dome, then yes. They are, however, beatable.
Next up, the Atlanta Falcons, a 2-1 team that has wins over Kansas City and Detroit, with a loss to Tampa Bay. We'll have more on this matchup later in the week (I promise).
Tough break for the Cats, losing LB Dan Connor to a knee injury. Donte Curry is back with the team, filling the roster spot left vacant after the injury. He was cut last week to make room for Steve Smith's return from suspension.
Other tough breaks: TJ Yates at Carolina. Russell Wilson and Nate Irving (among others) at NC State. Lots of big time injuries smacking some of the state schools. Speedy recovery to all, and good luck to the coaches trying to fill those voids.
Attended testing at Lowe's Motor Speedway on Tuesday, checking out the Sprint Cup drivers as they gear up for the Bank of America 500 on October 11th. Kasey Kahne has the chance to become the first Cup driver to claim all 3 races at the track in the same season. Kahne swept the races there in May, and he has won the fall race before. Should be interesting.
Heard from Brad Keselowski. He will try to make his Cup debut in Charlotte during the B of A 500--he needs to qualify on time, as he has no points to fall back on. He's 3rd in Nationwide Series points, and today, team owner Rick Hendrick said that Keselowski represents "the future of the company." Fairly lofty chatter from a guy that currently employs Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., and coming in 2009, Mark Martin. Keselowski is talented, no question, but that statement could have some adverse affects. Hope not, because Keselowski is a good kid.
Tennis returns to the Charlotte area with the Citadel Group Championships at the Palisades. 8 players, all with remarkable tennis resumes take the court in South Charlotte, among them Jim Courier, Stefan Enqvist, Wayne Ferreira, and Anna Kournikova.
Yes, A-K comes to the tourney, along with Chanda Rubin, to play some mixed doubles exhibitions on Saturday. Tickets are going fast, according to Courier, so if you are a tennis fan, and want to see some of the greats from the not-so-distant past, this event is for you.
Until next time,
Mike Solarte
The Panther loss to Minnesota was simply this--all of the little things amounted to Vikings positives. Panther false starts, blocks in the back, holding, you name it, they did it. It was the worst the Panthers have looked all season--and they lost by 10. Couple things to keep in mind, here. Adrian Peterson was banged up, but still played and ran for 77 yards. The Vikings got 1 TD off of a turnover, and one from their offense. Panthers lone score came from their offense. Give credit where it's due--The Vikes were just better that day. Do I think they are better overall? If they are in the Dome, then yes. They are, however, beatable.
Next up, the Atlanta Falcons, a 2-1 team that has wins over Kansas City and Detroit, with a loss to Tampa Bay. We'll have more on this matchup later in the week (I promise).
Tough break for the Cats, losing LB Dan Connor to a knee injury. Donte Curry is back with the team, filling the roster spot left vacant after the injury. He was cut last week to make room for Steve Smith's return from suspension.
Other tough breaks: TJ Yates at Carolina. Russell Wilson and Nate Irving (among others) at NC State. Lots of big time injuries smacking some of the state schools. Speedy recovery to all, and good luck to the coaches trying to fill those voids.
Attended testing at Lowe's Motor Speedway on Tuesday, checking out the Sprint Cup drivers as they gear up for the Bank of America 500 on October 11th. Kasey Kahne has the chance to become the first Cup driver to claim all 3 races at the track in the same season. Kahne swept the races there in May, and he has won the fall race before. Should be interesting.
Heard from Brad Keselowski. He will try to make his Cup debut in Charlotte during the B of A 500--he needs to qualify on time, as he has no points to fall back on. He's 3rd in Nationwide Series points, and today, team owner Rick Hendrick said that Keselowski represents "the future of the company." Fairly lofty chatter from a guy that currently employs Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., and coming in 2009, Mark Martin. Keselowski is talented, no question, but that statement could have some adverse affects. Hope not, because Keselowski is a good kid.
Tennis returns to the Charlotte area with the Citadel Group Championships at the Palisades. 8 players, all with remarkable tennis resumes take the court in South Charlotte, among them Jim Courier, Stefan Enqvist, Wayne Ferreira, and Anna Kournikova.
Yes, A-K comes to the tourney, along with Chanda Rubin, to play some mixed doubles exhibitions on Saturday. Tickets are going fast, according to Courier, so if you are a tennis fan, and want to see some of the greats from the not-so-distant past, this event is for you.
Until next time,
Mike Solarte
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Panthers-Vikes Primer
Just a couple hours shy of kickoff in the Metrodome, so here are a couple thoughts leading into the Panthers-Vikings matchup.
CAR offense v. MIN defense
The Panthers get Steve Smith back today, and that means their most dangerous home run threat will be on the field. In theory, this should make the Panther ground attack more of a problem for the Vikes, but you must remember, Minnesota has one of the better defensive fronts in the league. Smith will command some attention, drawing some multiple bodies in coverage. The onus is on the offensive line to get it done at the point of attack. If the O-line can win the battles up front,. the Panthers will be successful today. This, however, is no guarantee. Advantage-push
MIN offense v. CAR defense
Minnesota may be without Adrian Peterson, and even he does play, all reports out of the north say Peterson won't be 100% (hamstring). That would be a good thing for Carolina, considering the Vikes also benched Tavaris Jackson in favor of Gus Frerotte. Frerotte is more than capable as a back-up, but you have to consider some rust factoring in with him starting for the first time in a while. The indoor nature of this game doesn't lend too much of an advantage to either team--no weather conditions, an artificial surface. Speed is speed for both teams. Advantage-push
Special Teams
As mentioned above--both teams have capable kickers, weather not a factor. The last time these teams met in Minnesota, the Panthers tried a goofy lateral from Chris Gamble on a punt return that went for a fumble, and eventually a Minnesota win. Don't look for that today. Hard to give an edge one way or the other. Truth be told, I haven't seen enough of the Vikings in return situations to offer a solid opinion on them, so....advantage-push
Coaching
The Panthers have the edge here, given that they are running a team with confidence, while the Vikings will be facing the possibility of going 0-3 with 2 losses coming at home. Minnesota will be the desperate team in this one, so Carolina will have to be ready for that (with the Vikings trying things they might not normally try), but so far, what I have seen of the Panthers is that they will be. Advantage-Carolina
I'll go with Carolina to move to 3-0 by a final score of 24-13.
As for college football on Saturday, hats off to Tom O'Brien and NC State for pulling off the upset and beating ECU on Saturday. NC State proved that rivalry games mean something, especially when you go in short-handed with personnel, and simply "man up," and play hard. Probably could question some coaching decisions by ECU, but credit NC State for capitalizing on mistakes, and getting it done.
Tough break for UNC to fall short to Virginia Tech, but losing T.J. Yates didn't help matters,m especially with the way Tech responded to being down, and not giving up.
And, while not a thriller, props to Jim Grobe and Wake Forest for beating FSU for the 3rd straight year. 12-3 doesn't stir up thoughts of a well played game, but a road win in the ACC is big, no matter who it's against. Wake proved they can win ugly ones too, and that can be big for them down the road.
Enjoy the games, and if you are like me, you are recording the Ryder Cup matches, as the Americans lead 9-7 heading into singles matches today. USA needs 5.5 points to win the Cup, while Europe need 7 to retain it. Would have loved to see Boo Weekley go head-to-head with Lee Westwood, but that won't happen. Westy faces Ben Curtis, while Weekley drew Oliver Wilson. Don't be shocked to see the galleries get rowdy on Sunday, as having a chance to win back the Cup (a legit chance) should whip the fans into a frenzy. I love the Ryder Cup matches, because there are no sponsor dollars on display, no big prize money on the line. It's playing for love of country, or in this case, continent. It means so much, that these guys grind their guts out, just to contribute to their team. Great stuff.
Mike Solarte
CAR offense v. MIN defense
The Panthers get Steve Smith back today, and that means their most dangerous home run threat will be on the field. In theory, this should make the Panther ground attack more of a problem for the Vikes, but you must remember, Minnesota has one of the better defensive fronts in the league. Smith will command some attention, drawing some multiple bodies in coverage. The onus is on the offensive line to get it done at the point of attack. If the O-line can win the battles up front,. the Panthers will be successful today. This, however, is no guarantee. Advantage-push
MIN offense v. CAR defense
Minnesota may be without Adrian Peterson, and even he does play, all reports out of the north say Peterson won't be 100% (hamstring). That would be a good thing for Carolina, considering the Vikes also benched Tavaris Jackson in favor of Gus Frerotte. Frerotte is more than capable as a back-up, but you have to consider some rust factoring in with him starting for the first time in a while. The indoor nature of this game doesn't lend too much of an advantage to either team--no weather conditions, an artificial surface. Speed is speed for both teams. Advantage-push
Special Teams
As mentioned above--both teams have capable kickers, weather not a factor. The last time these teams met in Minnesota, the Panthers tried a goofy lateral from Chris Gamble on a punt return that went for a fumble, and eventually a Minnesota win. Don't look for that today. Hard to give an edge one way or the other. Truth be told, I haven't seen enough of the Vikings in return situations to offer a solid opinion on them, so....advantage-push
Coaching
The Panthers have the edge here, given that they are running a team with confidence, while the Vikings will be facing the possibility of going 0-3 with 2 losses coming at home. Minnesota will be the desperate team in this one, so Carolina will have to be ready for that (with the Vikings trying things they might not normally try), but so far, what I have seen of the Panthers is that they will be. Advantage-Carolina
I'll go with Carolina to move to 3-0 by a final score of 24-13.
As for college football on Saturday, hats off to Tom O'Brien and NC State for pulling off the upset and beating ECU on Saturday. NC State proved that rivalry games mean something, especially when you go in short-handed with personnel, and simply "man up," and play hard. Probably could question some coaching decisions by ECU, but credit NC State for capitalizing on mistakes, and getting it done.
Tough break for UNC to fall short to Virginia Tech, but losing T.J. Yates didn't help matters,m especially with the way Tech responded to being down, and not giving up.
And, while not a thriller, props to Jim Grobe and Wake Forest for beating FSU for the 3rd straight year. 12-3 doesn't stir up thoughts of a well played game, but a road win in the ACC is big, no matter who it's against. Wake proved they can win ugly ones too, and that can be big for them down the road.
Enjoy the games, and if you are like me, you are recording the Ryder Cup matches, as the Americans lead 9-7 heading into singles matches today. USA needs 5.5 points to win the Cup, while Europe need 7 to retain it. Would have loved to see Boo Weekley go head-to-head with Lee Westwood, but that won't happen. Westy faces Ben Curtis, while Weekley drew Oliver Wilson. Don't be shocked to see the galleries get rowdy on Sunday, as having a chance to win back the Cup (a legit chance) should whip the fans into a frenzy. I love the Ryder Cup matches, because there are no sponsor dollars on display, no big prize money on the line. It's playing for love of country, or in this case, continent. It means so much, that these guys grind their guts out, just to contribute to their team. Great stuff.
Mike Solarte
Friday, September 19, 2008
Heading to the Weekend
It generally takes my brain 5 days to recover from a Panthers game, so I apologize for being absent from the blog this week. Plenty to get to in this little corner of the internet. Such as...
COLLEGE FOOTBALL!!
Big weekend of games within the state. Looking at them, individually, we start with NC State hosting ECU. NC State is a MASH unit right now. Seems like half of their roster is out for the season, or at least going to miss the ECU tilt. Normally, this game has a bowl-game feel to it, but it may not this time. ECU is, in my eyes, clearly the superior team, and they face those depleted Wolfpackers. I don't see NC State having much of a chance in this one, only because they are so banged up, however, rivalries are rivalries. Prediction: ECU by 14
UNC-Virginia Tech
The Hokies have rebounded from their opening loss to ECU, after removing the redshirt from QB Tyrod Taylor back on September 2nd. The Hokies then beat Furman 24-7, and then eeked out a 20-17 win over Georgia Tech. Taylor brings a different style to the Hokie offense (think Michael Vick without the negative press), and that could pose problems for Carolina. UNC, however, is feeling quite good after a solid road win 2 Thursday's ago against Rutgers. I like what Butch Davis and company have done so far this season, and when you factor in the expected rush of the Heels playing a homecoming game in the ACC opener, I like the Heels chances in this game. I would think Brandon Tate will be a big cause for concern for Frank Beamer, but he's not the only one that can give Tech trouble. Prediction: UNC by 4
Wake Forest-Florida State
The Seminoles have looked very good early this season, but then again, they have played the equivalent of the News 14 Flag Football team (perhaps worse) so far this season. They have outscored their first 2 opponents (Western Carolina and Chattanooga) 115-7 in 2 games. Hardly the stuff top 25 rankings are made of. Still, FSU is always athletic, and Bobby Bowden is still Bobby Bowden. Wake Forest has faced tougher teams in their early games (Baylor and Mississippi), so we may know more about what the Deacons have than the Noles. We'll find out more about Wake this weekend, with this being a roadie, but I still give Wake a punchers chance. They may be short a punch or two, and I'm going with the home team. Prediction: FSU by 8
Ryder Cup
Every 2 years, golf fans get to watch what should be, the ultimate in competition and pride. The Ryder Cup has been lacking in American pride for the past 6 years. The Europeans have punked the Americans, and won the cup 5 of the last 6 times these matches have been played. As I write this, the morning alternate shot matches are well underway, and I am seeing a difference in this American team. There is more of the fist-pumping, and high-fiving between the players, and that is a good thing. I have thought that Team USA didn't gear up for these matches like the Euros do, and hopefully, that will be the difference for the Americans to overcome a very strong team, and earn the 14.5 points needed to win the cup again.
Speaking of golf, if you missed Sports Night on Thursday (shame on you), Tim Baier cranked out a nice piece on Lorcan Morris. Morris is a local golfer trying to cut it in big time golf. Funding is his problem. His game is not. He has a handful of wins on mini-tours in the region, but is looking for some sponsor support so he can chase his dreams at the bigger levels. Lee Trevino once said that pressure is "playing a $50 Nassau game with only $10 in your pocket." That's Morris, right now. He's got the game, but needs the backing. You can see the story on Morris here, and if you would like to help him out (or know someone who can), just shoot me an e-mail through the station. I'll be glad to forward that on to him. Lorcan is a nice young man, and I am pulling for him, big time.
I'll bang out a Panthers-Vikings preview for Saturday later tonight. Steve Smith is back, and Adrian Peterson may be out. Could make for a 3-0 Panthers start. We'll break it all down for you as a primer for Sunday.
See you on Sports Night at 10, and the Discount Tire Friday Night Final at 11!
Mike Solarte
COLLEGE FOOTBALL!!
Big weekend of games within the state. Looking at them, individually, we start with NC State hosting ECU. NC State is a MASH unit right now. Seems like half of their roster is out for the season, or at least going to miss the ECU tilt. Normally, this game has a bowl-game feel to it, but it may not this time. ECU is, in my eyes, clearly the superior team, and they face those depleted Wolfpackers. I don't see NC State having much of a chance in this one, only because they are so banged up, however, rivalries are rivalries. Prediction: ECU by 14
UNC-Virginia Tech
The Hokies have rebounded from their opening loss to ECU, after removing the redshirt from QB Tyrod Taylor back on September 2nd. The Hokies then beat Furman 24-7, and then eeked out a 20-17 win over Georgia Tech. Taylor brings a different style to the Hokie offense (think Michael Vick without the negative press), and that could pose problems for Carolina. UNC, however, is feeling quite good after a solid road win 2 Thursday's ago against Rutgers. I like what Butch Davis and company have done so far this season, and when you factor in the expected rush of the Heels playing a homecoming game in the ACC opener, I like the Heels chances in this game. I would think Brandon Tate will be a big cause for concern for Frank Beamer, but he's not the only one that can give Tech trouble. Prediction: UNC by 4
Wake Forest-Florida State
The Seminoles have looked very good early this season, but then again, they have played the equivalent of the News 14 Flag Football team (perhaps worse) so far this season. They have outscored their first 2 opponents (Western Carolina and Chattanooga) 115-7 in 2 games. Hardly the stuff top 25 rankings are made of. Still, FSU is always athletic, and Bobby Bowden is still Bobby Bowden. Wake Forest has faced tougher teams in their early games (Baylor and Mississippi), so we may know more about what the Deacons have than the Noles. We'll find out more about Wake this weekend, with this being a roadie, but I still give Wake a punchers chance. They may be short a punch or two, and I'm going with the home team. Prediction: FSU by 8
Ryder Cup
Every 2 years, golf fans get to watch what should be, the ultimate in competition and pride. The Ryder Cup has been lacking in American pride for the past 6 years. The Europeans have punked the Americans, and won the cup 5 of the last 6 times these matches have been played. As I write this, the morning alternate shot matches are well underway, and I am seeing a difference in this American team. There is more of the fist-pumping, and high-fiving between the players, and that is a good thing. I have thought that Team USA didn't gear up for these matches like the Euros do, and hopefully, that will be the difference for the Americans to overcome a very strong team, and earn the 14.5 points needed to win the cup again.
Speaking of golf, if you missed Sports Night on Thursday (shame on you), Tim Baier cranked out a nice piece on Lorcan Morris. Morris is a local golfer trying to cut it in big time golf. Funding is his problem. His game is not. He has a handful of wins on mini-tours in the region, but is looking for some sponsor support so he can chase his dreams at the bigger levels. Lee Trevino once said that pressure is "playing a $50 Nassau game with only $10 in your pocket." That's Morris, right now. He's got the game, but needs the backing. You can see the story on Morris here, and if you would like to help him out (or know someone who can), just shoot me an e-mail through the station. I'll be glad to forward that on to him. Lorcan is a nice young man, and I am pulling for him, big time.
I'll bang out a Panthers-Vikings preview for Saturday later tonight. Steve Smith is back, and Adrian Peterson may be out. Could make for a 3-0 Panthers start. We'll break it all down for you as a primer for Sunday.
See you on Sports Night at 10, and the Discount Tire Friday Night Final at 11!
Mike Solarte
BIG UPS!!!! September 19th 2008
Once again it's time for me to show some love to athletes from across North Carolina that you may not have heard of.
NCrunners.com has released its it's third poll of the season ranking the top cross-country programs in the state.
Shouts out to Green Hope, Broughton and Chapel Hill high school taking first, second and third places respectively in the Boys 4-A poll.
While on the boys Independent level Durham Academy, Cary Academy, Providence Day, Forsyth Country Day, North Raleigh Christian Academy, Charlotte Country Day, Greensboro Day and both Fayetteville Academy and Fayetteville Christian were each ranked in the top ten.
The ladies of East Chapel Hill, Green Hope and Myers Park are tabbed as the top three 4-A teams in the state.
While the girls of Cardinal Gibbons and Bishop McGuinness are the tops teams in the 2-A and 1-A levels.
A big shot out to these kids, I have no clue how in the world yall do all of that running. But a definite BIG UPS for all your accomplishments. Keep up the good work the season is far from over!
NCrunners.com has released its it's third poll of the season ranking the top cross-country programs in the state.
Shouts out to Green Hope, Broughton and Chapel Hill high school taking first, second and third places respectively in the Boys 4-A poll.
While on the boys Independent level Durham Academy, Cary Academy, Providence Day, Forsyth Country Day, North Raleigh Christian Academy, Charlotte Country Day, Greensboro Day and both Fayetteville Academy and Fayetteville Christian were each ranked in the top ten.
The ladies of East Chapel Hill, Green Hope and Myers Park are tabbed as the top three 4-A teams in the state.
While the girls of Cardinal Gibbons and Bishop McGuinness are the tops teams in the 2-A and 1-A levels.
A big shot out to these kids, I have no clue how in the world yall do all of that running. But a definite BIG UPS for all your accomplishments. Keep up the good work the season is far from over!
Monday, September 15, 2008
Panthers-Bears Fallout
Better look up the number of your local cardiologist, Panther fans. Looks like it's going to be a long season. Not a bad one, just a long one.
2 completely different Panther teams against Chicago. The JV in the first half--the ones that couldn't keep from moving before the snap, couldn't line up properly on a great punt from Jason Baker. The Varsity in the 2nd half. Bruising runs from rookie Jonathan Stewart, solid play from the offensive line to move the pile, a defense that got mean and nasty when it mattered most.
Carolina willed themselves to victory on Sunday, while the Bears came apart at the seams. Chicago held a 14 point lead, when they did the unthinkable--the took a shot at a fiery quarterback who had scrambled and then made the usual QB slide to surrender the play. 2 Bears unloaded on Jake Delhomme, leaving the QB a little wobbly. Once he came to, he grabbed his headgear which he had taken off, and began unloading language that would have made a trucker blush. All of it directed at the Bears defense.
It reminded me of Rocky III. Apollo Creed is deceased, Balboa agrees to fight the mighty Russian, and is getting pummeled. Rocky's trainer says to Paulie, "he's getting killed." Paulie replies, "he's not getting killed, he's getting mad."
Same thing.
That shot on Delhomme (which wouldn't be a shock if the NFL throws some fines at Chicago for), woke the Panthers up. All of them. Offense, defense, and special teams. The o-line blocked harder. The defense pursued harder. They played with a passion and intensity that was absent in 2007. Not a coincidence that also missing in 2007, was Jake Delhomme.
This is a Panther team, that 2 weeks in, is 2-0, and both wins come against good teams, and without their best player on the field. Steve Smith's suspension is now over. he'll be a part of the Panthers again, as they prepare to travel to Minnesota this week. Indoor game, artificial surface, and the Vikings coming off of a tough 18-15 loss to Indianapolis, after holding a 15-0 lead on the Colts.
It's hard not getting excited about this team, so if you are fighting it, don't.
Just have your heart doctor on speed-dial before you give in.
Mike Solarte
2 completely different Panther teams against Chicago. The JV in the first half--the ones that couldn't keep from moving before the snap, couldn't line up properly on a great punt from Jason Baker. The Varsity in the 2nd half. Bruising runs from rookie Jonathan Stewart, solid play from the offensive line to move the pile, a defense that got mean and nasty when it mattered most.
Carolina willed themselves to victory on Sunday, while the Bears came apart at the seams. Chicago held a 14 point lead, when they did the unthinkable--the took a shot at a fiery quarterback who had scrambled and then made the usual QB slide to surrender the play. 2 Bears unloaded on Jake Delhomme, leaving the QB a little wobbly. Once he came to, he grabbed his headgear which he had taken off, and began unloading language that would have made a trucker blush. All of it directed at the Bears defense.
It reminded me of Rocky III. Apollo Creed is deceased, Balboa agrees to fight the mighty Russian, and is getting pummeled. Rocky's trainer says to Paulie, "he's getting killed." Paulie replies, "he's not getting killed, he's getting mad."
Same thing.
That shot on Delhomme (which wouldn't be a shock if the NFL throws some fines at Chicago for), woke the Panthers up. All of them. Offense, defense, and special teams. The o-line blocked harder. The defense pursued harder. They played with a passion and intensity that was absent in 2007. Not a coincidence that also missing in 2007, was Jake Delhomme.
This is a Panther team, that 2 weeks in, is 2-0, and both wins come against good teams, and without their best player on the field. Steve Smith's suspension is now over. he'll be a part of the Panthers again, as they prepare to travel to Minnesota this week. Indoor game, artificial surface, and the Vikings coming off of a tough 18-15 loss to Indianapolis, after holding a 15-0 lead on the Colts.
It's hard not getting excited about this team, so if you are fighting it, don't.
Just have your heart doctor on speed-dial before you give in.
Mike Solarte
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