That's B(C)S

Today they revealed the new BCS standings. The day after Michigan gave up 42 points in a loss to Ohio State. The day after Michigan was down 11 points with 30 seconds to go in the "great epic" between two of the better teams in the NCAA. To me Ohio State dominated the game, and although they did not do a great job against Mike Hart, they are the superior team by far.
The rankings:
1. Ohio State (no problem here)
2. Michigan (are you kidding me?)
3. USC (another over-rated team)
4. Florida (another SEC team about to get messed over)
5. Notre Dame
6. Arkansas
7. West Virginia
8. Louisville


Now don't get me wrong Michigan is better than several of the other one-loss teams (they beat Notre Dame rather easily), but to put them over USC and Florida and even red-hot Arkansas is a mistake. Of course people that live in the rust belt (also known as the mid-west want a rematch) what else will they do?? Make some more cars!!


Here are the resume's for the other top teams and senarios that I would put them in.

Florida: If they beat FSU and Arkansas they should be number 2. They have the toughest schedule of any of the top 10 teams and are a blocked punt away from being undefeated. Yes, they do not win pretty (how about Michigans thrilling win over Vandy, or their close call two weeks ago). If we are stuck with an awful system, the team that plays the hardest schedule with the best record should be in the championship game.

USC: If Florida falters and they win-out they should go. They have not played a rough schedule (with the exception of Notre Dame, who Michigan handled and Arkansas, lucky they played them early). They should go over a one-loss Arkansas team because they won the head-to-head. They should go over Michigan because their resume will be very similar, except we have not already seen them get handled by Ohio State.

Arkansas: Need to win-out (LSU will give them fits and I don't think they match up well with Florida) and hope for Notre Dame to beat USC. If that happens I say you put them ahead of Michigan and Notre Dame.

Michigan: Obviously I am not very high on a rematch. But...If Florida loses to Arkansas, and Arkansas loses to LSU (very possible) AND Notre Dame beats USC (also possible) Michigan should go over a Notre Dame team they have already beat.

So those are my senarios, what do you think? What about other bowl games? Here are a few of my picks.

Sugar: Florida (who gets left in the cold) vs. West Virginia (if they beat Rutgers)
Rose: Michigan vs. Auburn (There's your rematch)
Orange: ACC winner vs. Notre Dame
Fiesta: Texas vs. Boise State

I see Arkansas getting the Capital Bowl, Tennesse in the next SEC game and LSU in the leftover bowl.

Top Ten Christmas

Top Ten Things I’d Like For Christmas

I am stealing this idea from another blogger. I love Christmas, and need to listen to the music. Yes I listen to Christmas music and am proud of it. Since you know how much I love lists, here goes…

This list is a dream list for me. If I could pick out ten things, no matter the cost or actual chance of them happening, here they are.

10. As good a time as possible in Colorado/Texas over the break: I am sure this will happen. Our parents bought us the tickets to come and see the families. I would like snow in Colorado and maybe a little in Texas as well.

9. A Gator Hat. Jamey got me the best Gator hat last X-mas and I managed to lose it in the move. Fitted hats are the best. In case anyone wants to know I where a size 7 ¼.

8. Subscription to Dolphin Digest: This is a must for any die-hard fan. It has articles throughout the year that no one except Dolphin fans will appreciate. I had this one time when I was little and loved reading about my team over and over. Now… if only they could win some games this year.

7. A Dolphin Christmas/New Years win. I want the Phins to be in position at 7-7 this late in the season and beat the Jets on X-mas (taking them out of the playoffs and putting us in position to grab a bid late). Then proceed to beat the 15-0 Colts to keep Miami’s ’72 team as the only undefeated team in history and securing our birth to the playoffs. While I’m at it, why don’t we just win the rest of the games to go to the super bowl.

6. NFL Sunday Ticket: I’d love to be able to watch the games I want to see on Sunday. This week I got to watch a thrilling Falcons vs. Browns game, while last week it was the Titans getting crushed by someone.


5. Sirius radio: Or whatever radio gets all the NFL games. This is my back-up to NFL Ticket, and it would be good to have all the stations for music for my dancing machine of a daughter. She has moves I have never even seen…

4. Music: I love my Christian music. And this year there are many great artists out there. Hopefully I’ll get my annual Wow CD from Jamey. I think I would actually like a Christina Aguilara CD (I can’t believe I just said that). And there are many other Christian artists I’d love to hear more from.

3. TIVO: I have heard great things about this. But I probably watch too much TV as it is. It would be nice to be able to record shows without having to use all the old VHS to keep everything on.

2. Tickets to watch the Gators win the National Title game. I know they have to beat a few teams first and hope USC loses, but I’d love to get to watch live as they “Tebow” their way over OSU or Michigan and prove all the critics wrong about Meyer’s offense.

1. My wife and daughter’s happiness. I hope both of them have a great X-mas.

I am sure there are more things I could list (A new car/house, etc…) but this is just a list I thought would be fun to make.

We are the champions

OLD MEN WIN TITLE


In a surprising blowout the old men managed to go undefeated last night. Playing Faulkner's best club team the old men used a suffocating defense to secure the win early and then had fun running the score up late in their victory over Kappa.
Led by Albert Cager's 3 TD's and Andy Bowen's 2 TD's the old men were only threatened once, at 13-6, before they pulled away to a 33-6 win last night in the championship.

The OM started with the ball and drove down the field quickly before an interception ended the drive at the 5 yard line. The defense quickly forced a 3-and-out and the OM started the next drive at the 50. Fueled by catches by Jerry and Russ to get the ball down to the 30, Andy Bowen scored one of his two rushing touchdowns by making several people miss. After another shutdown on defense, the OM scored quickly as Simpson found Cager for a 40 yard score.
After the half Kappa responded with a nice TD drive to make it 13-6. That is a close as they would get. The old men then ran a long drive down the field, including a reverse by Jeff May to get the ball down to the 5 yard line. From their Simpson found Bowen for a short pass that would push the lead to 20-6.
After another stop by the defense, with a sack on 3rd down by Jeff Hubbard. The OM quickly went down field. The big pass was Simpson to Medaris for 35 yards. On fourth and goal Simpson found Cager between two defenders to make it 27-6.
The last score was late in the game as Cager found Medaris for a 60 yard TD to complete the mercy rule.


Too bad that it is over.

"American" Christianity

Those of you who know me, or read my blog occasionally, know that I love the country I live in. I am very proud to live in a country that gives me the freedoms that America does. However, in class yesterday morning I heard the term American Christianity. We were discussing Paul. It got me to thinking.

The quote was used in class that when Americans pray we pray that our burdens be taken off our back. Or at least lessened so that we can continue. Where most of the rest of the world prays that their back be stronger to handle the burden. It made me think.

Often we hear people in churches, especially churches of Christ, complaining of the service where in other areas I would seriously doubt those being persecuted are questioning the song choice or the fact that they could not find a good seat on Sunday.

There are many other examples I could go on about, but hopefully everyone gets the point. I know I will try to think about this the next time I want to gripe about the church or some problem in my life.

Flag Football Pics

Here are a few pictures of Tuesday's victory.
nu=3235>5<2>33;>WSNRCG=32323:5969;29nu0mrj.jpg"> THE HUDDLE






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By far the best looking football player I've ever seen.





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Get'em





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Surveying the field






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The Champs

Elections

What does everyone think of the Dems gaining control in the Senate and the House? Will we have bi-partisanship going on? Or will it be more of "we don't really have a plan, but whatever Bush comes up with we'll just bash" from the democrats?
I actually am very interested in what we will do in Iraq now. Will we attempt to finish what has been started? Or will we pull out now and leave them to fend for themselves?
What other bills will get started? Gay marriage as a nation? What does everyone think???

Ladies' Night

Last night the old men took on another Faulkner club. This time though, we brought our secret weapon...the women. Three girls decided to get in on the action of flag football (Jamey, Brandie, and Jessica). The girls all did themselves proud, and I'm sure they were flattered to be flirted with by 18-21 year old college boys.
The recount:
The old people won the game 33-31. We started off rough with an INT returned to our 15 and quickly were down 6-0. The next possession went much smoother when after several passes, Simpson (Kenny) found Cager for the first score and with a converted XP, the old folks led 7-6. The young boys quickly answered to make it 13-7. On the next possession fueled by long receptions by Jerry and Jessica, the old men cashed in on fourth and goal with Simpson finding Medaris in the back of the end zone on a great catch. The XP made it 14-13.
The young guys again made a nice drive (converting several fourth downs and overcoming a sack by Jessica) to push the score to 19-14. Again the old folks returned the favor. This time on a pass to Russ Lasiter in the back of the end zone. The score stayed 20-19 after Simpson's pass fell incomplete for the XP. The young folks quickly responded to make it 25-19.
On the next drive fueled by several grabs by Jessica and a run by Jamey to take the ball to the five. Simpson's play fake to Brandie pulled the defense up and allowed him to find Medaris in the back of the end zone all alone. The XP made it 27-25. The old folks then held the young boys on the next drive led by the pass rush of the women and Cager's INT. The old people pushed the lead to 33-25 when Simpson found Jeff May in the back of the end zone on 4th and goal. The young bucks would score again, but could not convert the last extra point and the old people stormed...well hobbled, onto the field in celebration.
Pictures to follow.

Did you vote today?

Have you gone to vote today? I have not. It is not because I do not feel it is important, I just did not have any time to go vote (and I don't think I am registered in Montgomery yet). I did want to talk about the fact that we get to vote and how great that is. Too often I feel we as citizens do not take advantage of the opportunity (like I am doing now). What are the main issues in your state? Fortunately, Alabama will not have to vote on prop 1 (gay marriage, which I would hope would be defeated if it made it on as a bill).

Flag Football: Round 1

Well the old men did themselves proud Saturday by beating two clubs at Falkner.

In the first game we beat the second best club at Falkner 21-19. We scored on the first possession on a run by Simpson on fourth and goal. The club (Lambda) battled back to tie the score at 7 later in the half. With 31 seconds to go in the half Simpson found Cager for a 31 yard catch and run to put the old guys up. Goins extra point grab pushed it to 14-7 at half. Lambda scored in the second half to make it 14-13, but could not put in the extra point. The Old men then pushed the lead to 21-13 on a nice drive with two catches by Jerry to take us down to the red zone. Simpson then found Jeff for the score. The tenatious Lambda's made it 21-19 on the next play as the QB broke up the middle on an 80 yard run. The extra point was no-good and the old men ran out the clock on the next possession.

The second game was a laugher. The old men scored on the first four possessions to make it 28-0 and finish the game off with a reverse by Bowen for 60 yards to mercy rule the Sigmas. Simpson finished with 3 TD's passing and Bowen finished with 3 TD's. Cager also had several big catches and 1 INT to effectively seal the game.

We now have a scrimage Tuesday night at 7PM with the ladies playing with us. We will take on the Sigmas as they look for revenge against us. More pictures and stories to come...


BTW: In case anyone is looking for a fantasy stud, I had 5 TD passing and 1 rushing in two games :)

David vs. Goliath

I think one of the favorite stories in the bible is the story of David and Goliath. Anyone who has ever felt themselves as an underdog can relate to David. I love this analogy on several levels, the obvious underdog level and the much deeper level of the faith in God.
Tonight we play Montgomery Academy or as they like to be called "The Academy". They are 9-0 and have scored over 33 points in the last 8 games (so you can imagine how great my nights have been as I cannot sleep). Do we have a chance? Did David?

Thought ya'll might like this

Non-violent vs. Anti-American

After discussing with several men on various blogs I have continued to try to find out the pacifist (non-violent) view-point. What I have seen are two/three very different views and I'll attempt to mention each as I understand it. While I respect many of these people views (especially those in category 2 and 3), I disagree to a point with many of them. Here are the three types I have seen. Let me know what you think.

Category 1:

This group I would almost classify as the "anti" group. They tend to talk bad about Christians that are "fundamentalists", the country they live in, and really anyone that would fall into either of those two categories. I have a hard time understanding this group. It seems as though they want to enjoy the freedoms they enjoy, but want to criticize everyone that would disagree with their point of view.

Here is a quote that I thought fit this group

"The majority of pacifists either belong to obscure religious sects or are simply humanitarians who object to taking life and prefer not to follow their thoughts beyond that point. But there is a minority of intellectual pacifists, whose real though unacknowledged motive appears to be hatred of western democracy and admiration for totalitarianism. Pacifist propaganda usually boils down to saying that one side is as bad as the other, but if one looks closely at the writing of the younger intellectual pacifists, one finds that they do not by any means express impartial disapproval but are directed almost entirely against Britain and the United States[.]"

–Orwell’s Notes on Nationalism, May 1945

While not many of the people that I would consider friends fall into this category, I too often lump them all together...


Category 2

These are the pacifists that are much more like the amish. Although they obviously feel their choice in lifestyle is the correct one (often they point to the example of Christ) they do not condemn others that might disagree with them. This group seems to be the more prevalent group among the more educated left-wing group.
While I disagree with this group, they do make some valid points, but too often stop at theology without talking about practical solutions.

I would say this group is the "humanitarians who object to taking life and prefer not to follow their thoughts beyond that point" group.

Category 3

These people believe in defending your family, the rights of others, etc... But they do talk about exhausting all options of non-violence first. While I would say I am somewhat behind that, many here still fall short of practical solutions to events of the world today. This group does believe in having a police force, and a military, although many would not serve in either (or they would serve in a non-violent role).

Flag Football Update

This weekend the "Old Man" club had our first practice and scrimmage. We had 9 guys come out, but were probably missing our best two athletes who had other things to do, how dare them :). We realized quickly that we did not have a whole lot of speed and that the ball-control offense would have to be used. After about 30 minutes of going over offense and defense we scrimmaged the best club at Faulkner to see how we matched up with the other teams.
We each got the ball 5 times from our twenty to drive the ball. We ended up losing 21-20 in a pretty close game. I hope once we add those two that were missing we can look a little better on defense (we were struggling at the end). But I felt pretty good that we did not look too bad against the best Faulkner has to offer.
We play this Saturday so be sure to check back for updates...

Is it alright to be proud?

Is it alright to be proud of circumstances? I sure hope so. I am tired of people that are not proud of the things they have been blessed with. Too many times do I hear people that are not proud of who they are. I am not advocating being arrogant, just realizing that we are blessed.
I am proud to be a Chrisitian, although I myself am not better than anyone else, I serve a savior who is superior to other gods. It may just be something that bothers me, but it is alright to be a Christian!! How will people become followers if we do not show that this belief is superior to others? Again, I am not better than others, but my God and Savior are. If I don't feel that way, then why would I be a Christian?
I am proud of the country I live. Maybe at times too proud. I am not ashamed that I live in a country that gives me the freedom to worship anywhere I would choose. I am not ashamed that I live in a country that defends those who are oppressed and protects its citizens. I am tired of reading blogs like this "But for now, just enjoy your mid-morning coffee knowing that we live in pretty much one of the dumber countries of the world".
I am proud of what I do for a living. Not many talk against that so I'll move on.

Sorry to vent in two posts in a row, but sometimes I wonder if we realize how blessed we are...

60 civilians said killed in Afghanistan

Is it just me or is anyone else tired of hearing headlines like this one.

60 civilians said killed in Afghanistan

Don't get me wrong I am sad for the loss of any life, American or other. I just want to tell the Iraqi or Afahani "forces"..."QUIT BLOWING YOURSELF UP". I am tired of hearing how the U.S. is causing all the losses of the innocent civilians in suicide bombs. I don't remember hearing about us strapping a bomb to one of our soldiers chests and having him blow himself and several others up.

This probably follows the same line of logic as those who say we brought 9-11 on ourselves. I mean if we'd just allow the Muslims in Jerusalem to have the city to themselves and kick those Jews out, none of this would have been needed. We ought to be nice to these people or they'll blow a plane up in our cities.

For all the people that tell me we ought not be over there. I have yet to hear a realistic way to solve the problem in the middle east. Just like in coaching, it is much easier to critic from the sidelines, than be in the heat of it trying to do what you feel is right.

One blog that I found through Roxy has this article that is done much more elequent than I could ever do check out this blog www.1starfish.blogspot.com

Mom's Blog

My mother has now started a blog if you want to check it out. I am adding it to my links but here is a direct one http://www.blog.katskloset.com/ if you'd like to go there.

Flag Football

Recently some of the guys at Vaughn Park and myself have come up with the idea to try to play flag football in Faulkner's intermural program. Many of us played flag football through college and would like the chance to see just how much slower we have become. Personally I know I am sure to be disapointed when I break into the open, only to be run down by some younger legs. I think we are going to call ourselves the Omega Mu club or "OM" for Old Men if we get the chance to play.


Some of my favorite memories are of playing intermurals at Harding. My club was always one of the better football clubs. Not only memories of glory for my club (although you need to ask Jon about the time I caught and flipped him the ball for a TD in a game, or the "hail mary" I caught to beat a rival club), but many of my memories are of coaching Jamey's club. We only had one or two good players and most of our strategy consited of getting the ball to Jamey in about 20 different ways. She also had a play where she laid into a girl that probably doubled her weight and "decleated" her. Nice, that's my girl.

Can't coach effort

As most of you know who read my blog, I am the defensive coordinator for ACA's football team. There are several things that coaches learn quickly (I learned many my first year at MA). A few of these things are:
1) Players win and lose games
2) You can improve a team, but you cannot make them want to win
3) Sometimes you can play the best possible, and the other team is just better
4) Sometimes you can play bad, and the other team is just worse
And I have now figured out...
YOU CAN'T COACH EFFORT

I have tried this all year. I have taken many different approaches as to how to motivate them, but some boys will play very hard and some will just play hard (if they don't at least play hard, they don't play for me).
This shows with my defense. I have about 7 guys that have bought into what we are trying to do and play with reckless abandon, and about 4 are still not too sure, or just do not understand what real effort is. That is why we can look great for several plays in a row, and then look like we don't have a clue what we are doing. The goal for next year...
Find 11 like Brent Teel.

Moral Questions part III

Few more questions for you to weigh in on.

Does God do miracles and heal?
Yes, God heals everyone who asks in true faith
Yes, occasionally God heals but not necessarily
No, God does not heal and do miracles today
Not Sure

What is the nature of damnation?
Eternal torment, sorrow, and regret
Annhiliation
Not Sure/Other

Is assisted suicide ok?
Never
If the person is going to dye very soon and is in great pain
Yes
Not Sure

I am not sure about some of these. I think God can and does do miracles, but do not know why or how he decides to use them.
I know hell is not a place I want to be. The bible mentions weeping and eternal fire.
I don't think I could assist someone in death, but cannot speak for it since I have never been in that situation.

BCS poll

This is my blog on the BCS. Sometimes I feel you could take the "C" out of it, but this time they are pretty close to correct. Here is the current rankings.



1. Ohio State: They should be #1. They will be #1 all the way to the Michigan game. I can't see them losing to Michigan, so I guess they will be in the BCS Championship game. Hopefully they will play a good team, I can't stand OSU.




2. USC: The most underated team that has only lost a game in 3 years. They are being chosen to lose every week, but still are finding a way to get it done. I think they will run the table in the pac 10. I can't see Cal beating them, but Notre Dame could.

3. Michigan: Finally producing with all that talent, we'll see if they are still unbeaten when they get a shot at THE Ohio State University. I still think they could be upset before the game, and beat OSU to ruin their chances (at least that is what I am hoping for).

4. Auburn: Don't get me wrong here. I don't have a problem with Auburn, but to put them ahead of an undefeated tallented team does not make sense to me. Yes they play in the SEC, and if they'd lost to a very good SEC team that would make sense...They lost to ARKANSAS. Auburn will not lose another game, unfortunately they will still not be in the SEC Championship game, because I think the Hogs beat Tennessee.




5. West Virginia: They are my pick to be the team that gets messed over this year. I hope for their sake, that there is not a 1-loss team playing for the national title. I think they go undefeated and FLA still gets to go.
6. Florida: Good spot for FLA. I might have put them under Lousiville. Although, I think they are better than Auburn, they lost to them, so they should be underneath them in the rankings. Florida will not lose again. And when they beat the Hogs in the SEC Championship they will have a good chance to sneak into the title game.
7. Louisville: Another hopeful team that might go undefeated and not get a chance to play for the national title. I do not see them beating WVU, but if they do, they deserve to at least get a chance to go to the BCS Championship.
8. Notre Dame: Please beat USC. I don't think they can go to the BCS Championship, but they can mess it up for USC. They'll play in the orange bowl again.
9. Texas: Not real impressed with them, but they will finish with one loss this year. Going to the Rose to play the Michigan/OSU loser.
10. Cal: Tennessee might debate this ranking. They will lose again and not be in this spot.

My pick for what it will look like in the end.
1. OSU: I'd like them to lose to Michigan, but cannot see it happening.
2. USC: I don't think Notre Dame beats them at home.
3. FLA: They win the SEC with one loss and a blocked punt keeps them out of the title game.
4. WVU: They go undefeated and hopefully play FLA in an exciting game.
5. Auburn: They do not lose again and get a bowl spot.
6. Texas: Will not lose a game from here on out and will play Michigan is Rose Bowl.
7. Michigan: They may lose two games and still get in the rose bowl.
8. Boise State: I don't see them losing and hope the get invited to a BCS game, so they get killed.
9. Notre Dame: They lose to USC, but still get into a BCS (They now have 5 BCS games).
10. Louisville: Lose a close one to WVU and have to watch a sub-par ACC team take their spot in the BCS series.

Tell me how wrong I am.

Me

Got this from Jamey, thought I'd share it here.

1. FIRST NAME? Kenneth
2. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Dad's friend
3. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY? Not sure, I think watching movie about little girl
4. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? no
5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCHMEAT? honey turkey
6. KIDS? one little girl, Avery
7. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Think so
8. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL? blog
9. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? too much
10. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? yes
11. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? no
12. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? honeycombs
13. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? no
14. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? mentally
15. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM ? cookiedough
16. SHOE SIZE? 11
17. RED OR PINK? blue...if I had to pick red
18. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? Can be insensitive
19. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? my family people in Huntsville
20. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? yes
21. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Cargo Khakis and black shoes
22. LAST THING YOU ATE? Finger foods at church
23. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? Class pretending to work
24. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? BLUE
25. FAVORITE SMELL? Avery after her bath, Jamey's hair
26. LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? Brother
27. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE YOU ARE ATTRACTED TO: Legs (go Jamey)
28. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? yes
29. FAVORITE DRINK? Dr. Pepper
30. FAVORITE SPORT? Football
31. EYE COLOR? green
32. HAT SIZE? 7 1/4
33. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? no
34. FAVORITE FOOD? Mexican food
35. HAPPY OR SAD ENDING? happy
36. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED AT THE MOVIES? Facing the Giants
37. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Black
38. SUMMER OR WINTER? Winter
39. HUGS OR KISSES? Hugs
40. FAVORITE DESSERT? brownies
41. WHO IS LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Don't know
42. MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Not sure
43. WHAT BOOKS ARE YOU READING? Bible, Lou Holtz coaching book
44. WHAT'S ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? no mouse pad
45. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT? Football, Amazing Race
46. FAVORITE SOUND? Avery laughing
47. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? beatles
48. THE FURTHEST YOU'VE BEEN FROM HOME? Europe
49. WHAT'S YOUR SPECIAL TALENT? Sing
50. WHEN AND WHERE WERE YOU BORN? 2/27/80 FLA
51. WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? Jamey

Top Ten College Games Remaining

With UF going to Auburn this week it got me to thinking of what were the top games left this season. As many of you know I love top ten lists, so here are my top 10 college games left this season. Obviously it does not include championship games or bowl games, these are games that are already scheduled.


10. Tennessee vs Arkansas: This game will determine alot about both teams. If Arkansas can pull the win off I see them as no worse than in first in the West of the SEC. If Tennessee wins they stay in the shadows of FLA in the East and help out Auburn's hopes of playing in the SEC championship.

9. USC vs. Cal: Proabably for the Pac 10 championship. Every team not in the Pac 10 will be pulling for Cal to upset the Trojans and keep them out of the championship game for the 3rd straight year.

8. Nebraska vs. Missouri: Normally the North of the Big 12 is a joke. Not so this year with Nebraska at 5-1 and Missouri at 6-0. The winner here gets their shot at Texas and a BCS bowl game.


7. FLA vs FSU: I know FSU is not looking good. But if FLA manages to get through the rough part of the schedule unscathed, look out for the Noles. This could be FLA's fall game before the SEC championship game.

6. Clemson vs GTech: The winner here is my pick to have a great shot at a BCS. GTech has only one loss (to Notre Dame) and Clemson is as dangerous as anyone in the country right now.

5. Arkansas vs LSU: This game will be huge for the hogs if they want to have a shot at a BCS game. Same for any chances of LSU.

4. Notre Dame vs. USC: This is big for the bowls. If ND wins, pencil them into a big game. If USC wins and takes the Pac 10...sadly I think they go to the BCS regaurdless of what FLA can do.

3. Florida vs Auburn: If FLA wins 2 things happen. 1) Arkansas is in the championship game in the west. 2) FLA will go into FSU undefeated. If Auburn wins, the conference is up for grabs on both sides.

2. West Virginia vs Louisville: The winner of this is in a BCS bowl game, and has a chance to play in the Championship game if things go their way. I like WVU and Louisville against any other team in the country and would love to see one of them win it all.

1. Ohio State vs. Michigan: Talk about huge. This will be for a birth in the Championship game assuming both can do what they need to leading up to this point.

Let me know what you think. My picks:

10. Tennessee
9. USC
8. Nebraska
7. Florida
6. Geogia Tech
5. LSU
4. USC
3. Auburn
2. West Virginia
1. Ohio State

Moral Questions part II

These are some other "moral" questions I found that might provide some interesting discussion. Let me know what you think.

Is it permissible for Christians to drink alcohol?
Yes, as long as it is in moderation
No
Not Sure

Is the death penalty for grave crimes such as murder permissible?
Yes
No
Not Sure

Is premarital sex a sin?
Yes, it is fornication
No, not if the people love each other
No, not at all
Not Sure

Are all people predestined or do people have free will to chose?
God predestines everyone to heaven or hell
God predestines foreknowing what we will choose
It is a paradox, both are true God does not predestine at all
Other
Not Sure

To be honest I am not sure where I stand on questions 1,2 and 4. I would say 3 is wrong.
I would lean towards alcohol being ok in moderation. But not really for me. The best arguement I've heard towards no alchol was by Eddie Cloer at HU. He simply said "why". Why would you want to drink alcohol when we have so many other choices?
I would also lean to saying I am for the death penalty, but do not think I could be the one to enforce it.
The last one is difficult. If God knew we would not choose him, why make us? I still don't even come close to understanding that one...

Growing up

I have recently started noticing Avery as a little girl. For awhile she was a baby, but not is clearly a girl. I noticed this first when she starting drawing me pictures. These of course are colorful scribbles. But are done with a purpose by her.


I then saw Avery play at the park. She would not accept help for things she could do. Including the slide, bridges, and any other area she could go to. She was becoming a little girl.

Yesterday we spent the day at the fair. She enjoyed the shows (which we expected). She loved the sealions. But I was curious to see how she would handle the rides. After easing her into it with the giant slide with mom and teacups. I took her on the Merry-go-round. She enjoyed it so we decided to let her on the bumper boats by herself. Despite the sign that said the child had to be over 1 and 1/2 and over 36 inches (although she is close to that height) we let her ride it. She loved it. She rode it 3 times and was upset everytime she had to get out of the boats. She was by far the youngest kid on the ride, but you wouldn't have known it by looking at her. So we became a little more bold and got her onto another "big kid" ride. Despite being put with other older kids that she did not know, she did very well. I am sure Jamey will blog on this later with pictures so I'll stop there.

Even though she is growing up I will always view her as my little girl.

The "Peaceful" religion

After reading several other blogs about the Muslim religion, I have decided to write my own. Many times we are fed a line that most of these people are very peaceful and there are a few “extremists” that give the religion a bad name. While I would agree that many Muslims (particularly ones that do not live in the Middle East) are peaceful, I would disagree that the religion does not allow for violence. And here are just a few reasons why:

THE KORAN

While there are many other verses that could be put in here, I have chosen just two to share on this blog to attempt to keep it as easy to read as possible.

1. [2.191] And kill them wherever you find them, and drive them out from whence they drove you out, and persecution is severer than slaughter, and do not fight with them at the Sacred Mosque until they fight with you in it, but if they do fight you, then slay them; such is the recompense of the unbelievers.
2. [4.89] They desire that you should disbelieve as they have disbelieved, so that you might be (all) alike; therefore take not from among them friends until they fly (their homes) in Allah's way; but if they turn back, then seize them and kill them wherever you find them, and take not from among them a friend or a helper.

Here is another story of a Muslim leader:

BBC NEWS
Muslim cleric Abu Hamza al-Masri preached that killing non-Muslims was justified even for no reason, the jury at the Old Bailey has heard.
"Killing a Kafir [infidel] for any reason you can say it is OK even if there is no reason for it," he was recorded as saying.
Sudan's militant Muslim regime is slaughtering Christians who refuse to convert to Islam, according to the head of an aid group who recently returned from the African nation.
The forced conversions are just one aspect of the Khartoum government's self-declared jihad on the mostly Christian and animist south, Dennis Bennett, executive director of Seattle-based Servant's Heart told WorldNetDaily.
Villagers in several areas of the northeast Upper Nile region say that when women are captured by government forces they are asked: "Are you Christian or Muslim?"
Women who answer "Muslim" are set free, but typically soldiers gang-rape those who answer "Christian" then cut off their breasts and leave them to die as an example for others.
Backed by Muslim clerics, the National Islamic Front regime in the Arab and Muslim north declared a jihad, or holy war, on the south in 1989. Since 1983, an estimated 2 million people have died from war and related famine. About 4.5 million have become refugees.

ATTITUDE TOWARD CHRISTIANS
From the beginning, Islam drew a distinction between Christians and Jews and other non-Muslims. The former were "people of the book." They had to pay special taxes and wear identifying clothing, yet their status reflected a certain respect for what Muslims saw as the earlier but incomplete and corrupted revelation recorded in the Bible.

This next story I’ll give the a short version:

After the Pope made a remark that Islam can be a violent religion. Many in the Islamic community asked that something be done.

AS SHE LAY dying in a Mogadishu hospital, Sister Leonella forgave her killers. She had lived in Africa for almost four decades and could speak fluent Somali, but her last words were murmured in Italian, her mother tongue. ``Perdono, perdono," she whispered. I forgive, I forgive.
She was 65 and had devoted her life to the care of sick mothers and children. She was on her way to meet three other nuns for lunch on Sunday when two gunmen shot her several times in the back. "Her slaying was not a random attack," the Associated Press reported. It "raised concerns" that she was the latest victim of "growing Islamic radicalism in the country."
Raised concerns? Sister Leonella was gunned down less than two days after a prominent Somali cleric had called on Muslims to kill Pope Benedict XVI for his remarks about Islam in a scholarly lecture last week.
In his lecture, Benedict quoted the late Byzantine emperor Manuel II, who had condemned Islam's militancy with these words: "Show me just what Mohammed brought that was new, and there you will find things only evil and inhuman, such as his command to spread by the sword the faith he preached."
In the ensuing uproar, British Muslims demonstrated outside Westminster Cathedral with signs reading "Pope go to Hell" and "Islam will conquer Rome," while the head of the Society of Muslim Lawyers declared that the pope must be "subject to capital punishment." In Iraq, the radical Mujahideen's Army vowed to "smash the crosses in the house of the dog from Rome" and the Mujahideen Shura Council swore to ``continue our jihad and never stop until God avails us to chop your necks." Arsonists in the West Bank set churches on fire, and a group calling itself ``The Sword of Islam" issued a warning: ``If the pope does not appear on TV and apologize for his comments, we will blow up all of Gaza's churches."
With all this going on many still want to say that the Pope’s actions were wrong and that he prompted the Muslims to react. It is a staggering double standard, and too many in the West seem willing to go along with it. Witness the editorials in US newspapers this week scolding the pope for his speech. Recall the State Department's condemnation of the Danish cartoons last winter.
All of this has led me to feel the need to vent a little about this “peaceful” religion and the tolerance we need to show it. Sorry for the long blog, thanks if you made it this far in reading it.

Big players make big plays

Most of you that read this blog know that I coach football at ACA. We have a very special player on the team this year. His name is Brent Teel. Now, I have coached many good athletes in my career, but this one is different. He is by far the easiest to coach. He gives more effort than any I have coached so far.
This week we were losing a game to Catholic with under a minute left and had 4th and 25 at our own 15 yard line (ladies, that is not a good situation, it would be like shopping at Sears with $5 and needing to buy a formal dress). He caught a pass in the flats and broke (this is a literal number after watching the film) 8 tackles on his way to tying the score at 13 with 48 seconds left. Just to show he wasn't done, he scored the winning touchdown in overtime.
His stats for the game were 229 total yards, all three of our TD's, and 19 tackles. This earned him player of the week for Alabama by the Birmingham news (all classes) and player of week in Montgomery as well.
What makes him a good player is not all this. But the fact that he is the most polite young man you could know (if Avery was a few years older, I might even consider letting him date her).
Great to be around such good young men...

Questions

Was looking for some interesting questions to get some comments and found a link that had several "moral" questions. Here are a few:

Is it a sin to vote for a politician who is pro-choice on abortion?
a. Yes
b. Sometimes, depends on the circumstances
c. No
d. Not sure


Is abortion morally permissible?
a. Yes, it is the woman's choice
b. Only in cases of rape, incest, life of mother, etc
c. Only to save the life of the mother
d. Never permissible
e. Not sure


What is your view of the charismatic movement?
a. It is from God and is the future of the Church
b. It is a good movement, but not for everyone
c. One should be wary, the movement has problems
d. From the devil
e. Not Sure

What are your views on excommunication?

Should a Christian marry a non-Christian?


Well, what do you guys think? These are pretty deep questions. I feel we should vote for the more moral of the choices (regaurdless of party), abortion is at no time permissible, I like the charasmatic movement (as long as truth is being preached, which often is not the case), not totally sure on excommunication (but think there are cases when it needs to be used), and do not think a Christian should marry a non-Christian.

Tell me your opinions.

Sports picks for the week

Picks for the Week

These are the Swami Simpson’s picks for the week in sports. It will be a mix of pro, college, high school and yes junior high sports that I will be watching. Here are the picks.

JUNIOR HIGH

ACA vs. St. James
The Eagles get a chance for revenge. In the earlier loss, the girls held a late lead, but could not finish off the Trojans. With new coach Jamey Simpson, ACA is on the right path…
The pick: ACA in 3 games

ACA vs. MA
That is Montgomery Academy, not Madison. Last week the Eagles allowed an 18-6 lead to go to waste in their 23-25 loss. Not this time.
The pick: ACA in 2 games

County Volleyball tournament
With unbeaten Trinity the current favorite, many are not giving ACA a chance. I feel the girls are peaking at the right time and based on their tough 3 game set with Trinity last week…
ACA wins tournament
Giving Coach Jamey Simpson her 3rd county title in 3 years


HIGH SCHOOL

Madison Academy vs. Elkmont
The Mustangs were upended last week by upstart New Hope. Although Carter Hamric went 2-3 late in the game the Mustangs were too far down to come back. This week they face a much-improved Elkmont team for their homecoming. The game will be closer than expected but the Mustang D is too much for the Devils.
The pick: MA 14 – Elkmont 10

ACA vs. Catholic
The Eagles had their chances last week against the 3-1 Ashford team. One play would have brought home that first win. This week they face a Catholic team with 20 returning Seniors that is looking to avenge several years of frustration against ACA. The Eagles have looked good the past few weeks and hopefully the improvement will turn to a win.
The pick: ACA ? – Catholic ?


COLLEGE

Auburn vs. South Carolina
I like what Stevie has been doing to the Gamecocks. That said, Auburn will win going away…
Auburn 35 – USC 17

Tennessee vs. Memphis
Memphis always plays tough. No wait they’re awful…
TN 34 – Memphis 14

Florida vs. Alabama
It scares me that the Tide will be fired up to play. But UF should too, just remember the thrashing of last year…
UF 35 – Alabama 20

Notre Dame vs. Purdue
I am a true Notre Dame hater. This pick is more hope than what I really think will happen…
Purdue 35 – Notre Dame 34

Georgia Tech vs. Virginia Tech
A close game should be expected. I am not impressed with Virginia Tech and Georgia Tech’s only loss was a close one to Notre Dame…
GT 24 – VT 17

Ohio State vs. Iowa
This is the last chance until Michigan for OSU to lose. They won’t…
OSU 28 – Iowa 20


PRO FOOTBALL

Miami vs. Houston
I am not impressed with the Dolphins at all. Good for us the Titans are worse. The game will be close, but…
Miami 17 – Houston 13

Kansas City vs. San Francisco
KC is due a win for Jon…
KC 28 – SF 24

San Diego vs. Baltimore
This is the game of the week. San Diego is the real deal, while I think Baltimore has won some games against weaker opponents…
SD 28 – Baltimore 21

New England vs. Cincinnati
The Patriots need a win in a bad way. Fortunately, for me and other Dolphin fans they won’t get it this week…
Cin 31 – NE 21

Seattle vs. Chicago
Another match-up that should be fun to watch. Seattle has a great offense, but I think Chicago will hold them in check for much of the game. And as a defensive coordinator I believe that D wins championships…
CHI 17 – Seattle 14

Well there you go sports fans. Tell me what you think.

Top Christian Groups

I love Christian music. Ask Jamey, I own every wow that has been put out and will ask for Wow 2007 this year for Christmas. I love older artists, I love the newer artists. Here are my top 10 favorite. And my bottom groups.

10. Salvador: Not a very well known group. But I heard a few of their songs on WOW and bought a CD. I love almost every song.

9. Acappella and AVB: This shows my church of Christ roots. I grew up with these groups and still enjoy their music. Unfortunately I have lost many of my CD’s/Tapes of these two groups. So if anyone has a copy I’d like to copy it (I’ll pay for any expenses, you can’t even buy many of the albums anymore).

8. David Crowder: Very good music. Great to worship with in the car. Has a very distinct voice that is really not my favorite, but I love his passion and lyrics. I think he will also move up the more music he puts out.

7. Mercy Me: Love their albums. I will move them up as they stay around. They have a cross over hit with “I can only imagine”, but have many more songs that are just as good if not better. The lead singer has a very distinctive voice that I enjoy. Their lyrics are very deep as well.

6. Jars of Clay: The song “worlds apart” is an all-time favorite of mine. But “Flood” is another that topped the charts for awhile. Also have many others. The newer albums are decent, but not like those first ones.

5. Jeremy Camp: A newer artist. I don’t even own a CD of his, but love his music on the Christian radio.

4. Michael W. Smith: The legend. He has been there from the beginning. From “Go west young man” to his newest albums he has songs that will be forever remembered. I prefer his worship albums, but many of his older ones are also very good. “Friends” will always be a big hit in the Simpson family.

3. DC Talk: Many top albums. I personally love all from the old school raps to the newer alternative style. Their lyrics have inspired me since I was young.

2. Third Day: This group has burst onto the scene in the last 5 years (for me). I own many of their earlier albums and love their live stuff. Mac Powell (I think that is the name of the lead) has a great voice. I love the message of many of the hits, but the band is very skilled as well.

1. Steven Curtis Chapman: My all-time favorite. I own about every album he has put out. Have listened to him since he first got started and continue to buy his albums. His recent releases continue to inspire. I love his voice, but more importantly his message. BTW: Has any song been played in weddings more than “I will be here”.


THE BOTTOM FIVE
5. Petra: Christian rock is hard enough to get behind. Christian 80’s rock is way harder. This is like listening to the big bands of the 80’s singing Christian music.

4. Geoff Moore: Has good lyrics and is probably a really good guy. His music is just awful. “Homerun” is terrible.

3. Amy Grant: Had two or three good songs. “Baby, baby” is not one of them. Her personal life puts her here. (Others that were good, but had personal issues: Michael English). Not saying she cannot be forgiven, it just makes it hard for me to buy her Cd’s.

2. 4 Him: The backstreet boys of Christian music. Had one good song on a Wow CD awhile back, but the rest was awful.

1. Point of Grace: They have about as much depth as a Frisbee in their music. And the all girl group is not even that good of singers.

Top Ten Christian Movies

Next List. This time the top 10 Christian Movies. The criteria is that I have to have seen the movie.

10. Martin Luther: The 1950's version.

9. Prince of Egypt: Has a few "movie liberties" taken. But is a very well done movie.

8. Jonah: Veggietales special.

7. Luther: Very good movie about the Reformation.

6. The Ten Commandments: Oldie but a goodie.

5. Ben-Hur: Not completely on Christianity, but has several good scenes and gives context.

4. JESUS: Another portrayal of the life of Christ.

3. The Chronicals of Narnia: The books are better than the movie. But its points are very clear.

2. Gospel of John: Very well done version taken directly from the book of John.

1. The Passion of the Christ: Very intense movie that is a must see at least once, and probably should be seen more than that, for Christians.


Tell me which I missed.

Survivor/Amazing Race

Any comments on the two reality shows?

Survivor: Thought it got off to a good start.
My early pick: the buff guy in the Asian tribe.
Favorites: Cao Boy is hillarious so far. The guy on exile island.
Strongest Tribes: The Asian and Hispanic tribes are looking very strong.
Biggest mistake: Voting off one of the two males the African tribe had. Not good for physical challenges.
Soon to be gone: Hate to say it but not looking good for Kao Boi (however you spell it)

Amazing Race: How many different types of people can they have. I don't think I saw a "normal" white couple on the show.
Early pick: Daughter and Dad.
Soon to be gone: Cheerleaders, Beauty queens (I still can't tell them apart yet)
Who I am cheering for: The Rednecks from Kentucky and the Birmingham girls.

My Reality Show

On the last post I talked about several of my favorite reality shows, but I think the up-n-downs of my weekend were right there with them.
Thursday Night: Jamey's girls get their first win in the 3rd game. UP

Friday Night: We get beat again in football: DOWN

Saturday: Gators beat a tough Vols team: UP

Sunday: Dolphins get thrashed, Marlins choke away a gimme win: DOWN

We did have some of our good friends stay the weekend with us. Dawn and Chris Howell were at our house while they move in to their house. That was a good part as well.

Top Ten Reality Shows

The last post got me thinking. Here is a look at my top ten reality tv shows of all time (which is really just the last 6 years or so).

Top 10 Reality TV shows

10. America’s got talent: A rip-off of American Idol, but at least it got us through the summer. And you have to love the baywatch guy attempt to be serious.

9. Dancing with the stars: Not one of my favorites but it seemed everyone else got into this. My suggestion: get real stars.

8. The Bachelor: Good shows. The first few that were original were the best. From then it got hokey (ie: the bachelorette).

7. Joe Millionaire: Great show. The premise was that this guy was filthy rich (when in reality he made like $18,000 a year. The girls fall for him and when he picks a girl he had to tell her he was not rich. Great ending.

6. Nashville star: May actually have more talent than the more popular American Idol (Bucky would not have even made this show). I like how they have to be able to play an instrument.

5. The Apprentice: I never really got into this one. But the “your fired” has taken off.

4. Trading Spaces: Jamey’s favorite show. Everyone knows the idea, go over to neighbors house and fix up a room with a designer to help.

3. Amazing Race: One of the few I would actually like to be on. Jamey and I would tear it up. Love watching the different personalities come out. Cheered on the Hippies last year to victory (although the frat boys were hilarious and probably should have won).

2. American Idol: Don’t know if it is a reality show, or talent show. But it has the highest ratings and keeps Fox in business. Almost anyone under 40 in the U.S. at least has an idea of what is going on. From the awful singers in the beginning, to the ones that hang on too long (Chicken Little), to the great singers in the end it is a great show.

1. Survivor: It is my favorite and had the highest ratings for a long time. Looking forward to the new ones every year.


Not quite there:

Big Brother: A little too much of nothing for me

The MTV shows: Road Rules and Real World and Pimp My Ride

2-a-days (can’t stand Hoover High)

Contender: Was my number 11. I think the show is a good one, but its more a competition than reality show

American Inventor: Did the football guy win?

Supernanny: Hard for me to watch all those bratty kids.

Top Chef: For my father who loves the food shows.


Tell me which should be higher than others, or not at all on the list…

Survivor

I am a huge survivor fan. Jamey and I have watched the show since we were in college and enjoy are time to cheer on someone we don’t even know who will quickly become like someone we know. I love the fact that it does have twists and turns and the show seems to make sure something new will be on. Most of America loves it too, because when you google survivor you get 92 Million results.
This year survivor has decided to “spice up” the show by dividing the tribes. This has been done before by men-women, and age. Now the show has decided to make it divided on race. This to me opens the door for a lot of problems. I will watch because I am curious to see what happens, but am a little upset that the show has decided to go in this direction.
Since I live in the south, race is always an issue, even when it’s not supposed to be anymore in the modern times we live in. As I am sure most of you would agree who live in Alabama. Is the show taking on the issue, and I am wanting to simply avoid it? Or is the show wanting to add to its ratings no matter the cost? Either way I will watch to see what happens…

Enjoying Life

Today has been a good day. Although I am sick (can't breath without using my mouth), my team is 0-2, and Avery woke up at 5:45, today is still a good day. Why?

Because I am a Christian. I am able to talk about, worship, and pray to a God who has been through much worse.



Because I am a husband. I have a wife that loves me, takes care of me, and has fun with me. And enjoys much of the same things that I do (nice catch baby).

Because I am a father. I have a little girl that, as of this moment, loves me, plays with me, and kisses me. As noted in the picture she also helps me gameplan for football.

Because I am an American. I have the freedoms to worship my God, to live without fear.

Because I am a teacher. I get paid to influence kids everyday.


Because I am a coach. I do something I love and call it a "job".

So, even though I can't breath, am tired, still am slightly depressed about losing, today is a good day...

I Hate Losing

Ever since I was a little child I have been the most competitive person I know. I would play atari with my dad and if I lost I would cry all night in my room, and have to be coxed out to eat dinner. When I played sports I would not be able to be around others if we lost (this is at the age of 6).
Now a more mature me still can't stand to lose. I know it is a part of life, just not a fun one. Coaching at ACA has been a great experience for me. I love "my boys" and would do anything for them. They have improved a ton from the jamboree to now. We played our best game the other night in front of about 5000 people in our stadium and got beat. We didn't just get beat. We got beat in overtime. On fourth down. When we covered the reciever as well as possible the ball just got between two of our guys to their guy. I can't stand losing and it has taken me since friday to finally be able to forget (somewhat) the woulda-shoulda-coulda's of the game.
Most of you know Jamey and I are probably the most competitive couple. With a combined 0-7 record the Simpson's have had to mature a little in this respect. I still cannot stand losing, but in the middle of the game one of the officials was talking to the head coach and me about a local coach who recently passed away at a young age. He mentioned their were over 1000 at the funeral of boys he had mentored. And that helped me to see that I did not get into coaching to win games, but to win boys for Christ. So even though I hate to lose, I love coaching no matter the outcome.

Strongest Football Conference

This is to all those who love college football. I have always heard this conference is the best, or this one is because of this. I have moved enough and have enough favorite teams (FLA, AZ, Air Force) to give a somewhat unbiased opinion on the strongest conference in college football. I rank them on overall streangth, top teams, and year-in year-out streangth. With deepest sympathies to all the smaller conferences I will limit this to the BCS top 6.

Big East:

Easily to weakest of the bunch. Only WV keeps them above the lower level conferences. Louisville is a solid team recently and every now and then Syracuse is worth something (not lately though).
Too many weak teams drag them down to the bottom of the 6.

PAC 10:

In basketball I'll fight for them, not in football though. USC is head and shoulders above the rest. And I think USC still wouldv'e gone undefeated in the tougher conferences the last few years. After USC we saw what happened to Cal against a solid (not spectacular Tennessee team). Oregon looks to be tough. But Boise State beat the dog out of Oregon State last night and there are too many weak sisters here as well. Arizona and ASU will be improved and could make a bowl, but would not fare well in the tougher conferences. UCLA can't play a lick of defense. Stanford is another basketball school.
They fall to number 5 of 6.

Big 10:

I know this may have been blaspheme ten years ago. But now it is reality. The Big 10 is simply not that good. Ohio State I believe is a national title contender and that is why I have them above the Pac 10. Michigan is a constant underacheiver (but they do have the best uniforms in the land). MSU is off and on. Same with Purdue, Northwestern (who is more off than on) and Illinois. Iowa is a solid under the radar type team. Penn St. was good last year for the first time in a while, but is not looking too good this year. Wisconsin is good at running the ball, and that's about it.
They are 4 of 6.

Big 12:

They are this high for two reasons and two reasons alone: 1) Texas, 2) Oklahoma. The rest are mediocre at best. I feel you have to have them up here because every year either TX or OK will be in the title game it seems or close to it. Nebraska is turning it around and look to win the North this year. Texas A & M is normally good, until recently. But I feel they will bounce back this year or next. Texas Tech has one of the best offenses in the country (until they play Alabama). Kansas St. is normally pretty tough as well. The rest: Not so good.
3 of 6

SEC:

Most might disagree with this and I like to hear the reasons. The SEC is a very tough conference. Both sides have national contenders year in and year out. In the East you have FLA, TN, Georgia, and sometimes USC. In the west LSU, AU and Alabama most years. The problem lies in the rest of the teams. Vandy and Kentucky are whipping boys for the SEC and would be for most other conferences as well. Arkansas can sometimes do fairly well. MSU and Ole Miss are terrible.
2 of 6

ACC:

I know this is a surprise to some people. But the top teams are as good as the SEC: Miami, FSU, VTech, Clemson (this season), Georgia Tech. They also have a much more solid middle: Boston College, NC State, Virginia, North Carolina. They do have a bottom level: Duke, Wake Forrest. But the lower level is much more competitive than in any conference. With title teams at the top, a solid middle to push them, and only two write in wins I think the ACC is
1 of 6

Alright you SEC crazy's tell me why I am wrong.

Sorry Phins...

The Dolphins managed to do it again, get up on an opponent have the ball in their territory and lose. Oh well just 15 more I have to watch. At least I got the right score 28-17, just wrong teams. Credit to the Steelers, there is a reason they are super bowl champs.
On another note, Jamey's girls got off the hump, somewhat. I am sure she'll blog about this so I won't give too much detail. They did not win the match, but finally got a game won.
About Avery now. Her new favorite word is "no". This morning I was getting her ready for school (to come with me to see her mom, who is coaching in the morning), and I asked her about several different things she knows and she pointed and laughed. Then I asked if she wanted her diaper changed and she said "no,no,no" and clung to me with arms and legs not letting me put her on the table. The funniest is when people she doesn't want try to pick her up now. She puts her hand in their face and says "no,no". Not that we encourage this, but sometimes it is funny.

Miami Dolphins

Miami vs. Pittsburgh

Most of you know the Miami Dolphins are my favorite team in any pro or college sport. I have watched and cheered them through many-a 8-8 seasons. They break my heart every year, but I keep on cheering.
Now there is optimism in Miami about their beloved Dolphins. I am attempting to not get caught up in it, as I have so many times before. But it is hard, as the Phins have added Daunte Culpepper to the mix. They have rid themselves of Crazy Ricky and are now hooked on former Auburn Tiger Ronnie Brown. They still have Chris---I catch the hard ones and drop the easy ones---Chambers and Randy—I beat my wife…twice—McMichael. Their Offensive Line is improved. Their Defense should be sound. And yet I know somewhere down the line they’ll manage to lose to the Jets or Bills or someone’s peewee football team. I also know they’ll beat the Patriots at least once (please) and upend some other team that should beat them. My fearful prediction for the Dolphins: 10-6 wildcard team.
Onto the game, Miami typically starts the season well (except for last season 3-7 and the one before that 4-12) and does well in hyped games. With Big Ben out I think Miami will upend the Steelers 28-17 tonight and get my hopes rising before crushing them again for the 26th straight year.


Also would like to give a shout-out to the Marlins. A complete game no hitter thrown last night. First team ever to come from 20 games under .500 to above .500. They will not make the playoffs (schedule too tough and Padres have no one left on schedule), but way to go guys. A $15 million salary for the whole team. There are 20 players alone that make that much. Watch out, if they do slip into the playoffs as a wild card they are 2-0 in the world series...

Improving SLOWLY

As most of you know I coach football at ACA. As the defensive coordinater I take a lot of pride in my boys. We have become better already, but with 3 sophmores, 2 freshmen, and 5 juniors seeing much playing time on the defense it is a SLOW process. We opened with a jamboree against a top 10 school in 4A and acted like we didn't know how to play. Things started rough this week as we gave up two quick scores in the first 3 minutes. After that we held them to 7 points (on a busted play) and forced two turnovers and 5 three-and-outs (girls that means we did well). Hopefully we can play a whole game this week and come out 1-0 in our region. We'll see Friday...

Top Ten Video Games of all time

This is my list to the top ten video games I have ever played. I think it is safe to say that I have played many video games in my 26 years from Atari to Playstation 2. These are the games I feel were the best to come around on all the game systems.

10. Track and Field: Nintendo with the power pad. A classic that actually involved physical work with a video game. Great game.

9. Contra: A great game by nintendo. I played this game all the time and loved it. The awful graphics just make me love it more.

8. Super Techmo bowl: Great game for the old school players. Kept up with stats for you.

7. Madden (name the year): Any of the Madden games have to be up here. I would play and follow with stats for a year. Now there is Dynasty mode. Create yourself and play. Great games.

6. Golden Eye: This 007 game was a favorite of my college years. I loved playing in the four screens. The Proximity mines were the weapon of choice for me.

5. Sonic: This game is mainly on here because it is Jamey's favorite game. It was a classic by Sega for many.

4. NBA Jam: A personal favorite of mine. I used to have all-out wars with friends on this game. Classic (Shaq and Penny on the Magic).

3. Halo: 1 and 2 are great. Can remember playing on the system at Harding. Now I lose bad to my little brother.

2. Pac-man: Know this shows my age but I love Pacman. Arcade's beware I can make that one quarter last half an hour on a good day.

1. Mario Bros/Duck Hunt: I know it "came with the game", but it is the most popular game out there. There was even a awful kid's sitcom that tried to come from the game. Almost everyone I know has played both these games. I knew all the warps and was able to beat the game without warping. And I hate that dog on Duck hunt.

Those just off: Mike Tyson's punch out, Double Dribble (Great close ups of the dunks), Mario Cart Racing, Tetris, All the new war ones out on Xbox are great also.


Let me know what I might have missed all you nerds that know you played these games.

"Christian Politics"

As I read several friends blogs, and links to other blogs, to other blogs. I become more and more disturbed about one thing. Our "politics" as Christians. It seems more and more we as well as the rest of the nation want to turn away from the actual history that America was founded as a christian nation. I was actually very surprised to hear this from many people that thought it was fact. When in reality that is as far off-base as one can go. Here are just a few small examples of the true history of the founding of our nation.

52 of 55 signers of our Declaration of Independence were deeply religious

Immediately after creating our government the Continental congress bought 20,000 bibles for the people of the nation (as a governmental purchase)

Quote from Patrick Henry: "It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religion, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ."

George Washington in his farewell speach: "It is impossible to govern the world without God and the Bible. Of all the dispositions and habits that lead to political prosperity, our religion and morality are the indispensable supporters".

In 1782 the U.S. Congress voted this resolution: "The congress of the United States recommends and approves the Holy Bible for use in ALL SCHOOLS"

Of the first 108 universities founded in America. 106 were distinctly Christian.
The Harvard Student Handbook rule #1: the students must know Latin and Greek in order that they may STUDY THE SCRIPTURES

For over 100 years over 50% of Harvard Grads were ministers

There are many more examples that I could list. But I think the point has been made. Our nation was founded as a Christian nation. Unfortunately, now our nation is so depraved morally. What is even more sad is that many Christians were not even taught that it has not and should not be this way. This is where "Christian politics" come into play. I know and acknowlege that my allegiance is first to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To that end I feel that I need to be involved in decisions that are made in the place I live. A country that once was a deeply Christian nation. And despite as bad as it has become. Why do you think we are attacked by Muslim extremists? It is not because we are athletically or mentally superior or a threat. It is because we are still viewed as a Christian nation.

Although our nation is not where any of us would like it to be: ie. Gay marriage, abortion, etc... We must continue to be ACTIVE in our government. It is shocking for me to hear of others that will not vote, or do not care about the affairs of the nation in which we live. To many times as Christians we take a passive approach and become the "silent majority" on major issues. I hear people all the time talking about how America is going down hill, yet doing nothing.

Despite all the immorality in the U.S. we are in better shape than all of Europe, most of Asia and many other nations. To this end I feel we must be proud that we do have religious freedom, and must attempt to gain back the "Christian" part of America.

Growing up

I do not get sentimental much. Trust me you can ask my wife. But the other night we watched Cheaper By the Dozen II. Pretty good fun movie. One of the main story lines is about the youngest girl growing up. This for whatever reason got me a little sentimental about my little girl and how much she has already grown up. Tonight in church I watched for the first time how in class she can climb the little slide set they have and go down the slide all by herself. She did this several times and came running to me with a big smile as if to see if I was impressed. I will miss the days when she does not always run into my arms after every big acheivement...

Football preview

This is my football preview. It will feature college, pro and high school teams. Teams that I like and how I feel they will finish.

NFL: I am a huge Dolphin fan, but do not believe as some have suggested that they will make a run at the super bowl. I do feel they have a chance at a wild card given their division is not as strong as others in the AFC. My pick 10-6 and out in the first round.

Division Winners:

NFC

East: Giants: Tiki Barber. Manning with another year experience.
North: Chicago: Defense will lead the way.
South: Carolina: Too much talent.
West: Seattle: No one will put up a fight in West.

Wildcards: Cowboys, Tampa Bay

Just missing the cut: Saints, Falcons, Cardinals, Rams

Big disapointments: Redskins


AFC

East: Patriots: Tom Brady, 'nough said
North: Cincy: Carson looks ok.
South: Indy: Peyton Manning (seeing a theme here)
West: Denver: Running game always solid.

Wildcards: Miami, Pittsburg

Just missing the cut: KC, Jacksonville, San Diego (too much tallent in AFC West)

Big disapointment: Oakland (Again)

NFC Championship: Carolina vs. NY. Giants

AFC Championship: Patriots vs. Indy

Super Bowl: Patriots beat NY. Giants



College Preview

My favorite teams: Florida, FSU, Miami, Air Force, Arizona.
Of the above the Florida schools should fare well (although no real contenders for the BCS). Air Force will be above .500 and Arizona I think will creep above .500 under the "other Stoops".

Top 10

1. Ohio State: Too much Troy Smith (alot like Vince Young)
2. West Virginia: I believe in this under-the-radar team
3. Auburn: As much as I'll be rooting against them
4. LSU: Too much talent. Playing the "no respect card"
5. Notre Dame: Great offense. Bad defense. Rough schedule.
6. Oklahoma: If had QB would be my #2
7. Georgia: Too much talent. Under-the-radar. Due to beat FLA this year.
8. Cal: Should finally beat USC.
9. Florida: Next year will be their year.
10. FSU: Always loaded on defense. If they could just score a little...

Just outside: USC, Texas, Michigan, VTech, Miami, Louisville

Conference winners:

SEC: Auburn
Florida can win the East, but with Auburn or LSU out of the west look out.
Surprising team: Arkansas

Pac 10: Cal
USC will be there, but too much inexperience
Surprising team: Arizona

Big 12: OK
Texas is still good, just not vince good
Surprising Team: Colorado wins the north

ACC: FSU
VT and Miami will be around, just not enough
Surprising Team: Clemson

Big 10: OSU
Michigan could be very dangerous this year as well
Surprising Team: MSU



High school

Madison Academy: I am predicting a 12-2 season with the Mustangs getting to the semis. The defense returns 9 of 11 starters and should carry the team. Enough will be done on offense with the running backs to win games. Not pretty, but effective.

ACA: With the younger players the sky is the limit. Their DC is one of the brightest young minds in the game...

Let me know what you think.
Put in your favorite teams and lets hear how you think they'll do.

Top Ten places I'd like to go/have gone

This list will cover the top places I'd like to visit. I have been to a few, but most of these are places I'd like to go. The next list is the places I have been to that I enjoyed. Jamey and I love to travel and hope to be able to continue as we get older.

10. Italy: I'd love to go back to Rome/Florence/Pompeii and add in Milan/Venice and others to my list.

9. England/Scottland: Would enjoy seeing the coast and the terrain.

8. Australia: This is mostly for Jamey (it is one place she has always wanted to go). I'd like to see the coast and go to the Great Barrier Reef.

7. Israel: I'd love to walk the area where Jesus walked and see the things he has. I enjoy biblical history and would love to go back to the areas I read about.

6. Egypt: Would love to see the Nile, Pyramids, Sphinx.

5. Japan/China: Yes I realize these are different areas, but I figure I'd have to hit both in one trip. I'd love to see the huge cities in both places. I would also like to see the Great Wall.

4. South America: Anywhere that is not a war zone. Particularly Brazil.

3. Denver: I'd love to see my family more.

2. U.S. West: Kind of a cheat. But I'd love to do a road trip to hit: Yosimite, Mt. Rushmore, Glacier Park, Vancover, Seatle, San Fransisco, Las Vegas, 4 corners, Grand Canyon. (Yes it would be a long trip)

1. Alaskan Cruise: Jamey and I enjoy cruises and would love to do a 7 day cruise and also get to see Alaska for a few days afterward.



10. Guyana: Went there on a mission trip and enjoyed it.

9. Searcy: We loved living in this middle of nowhere place several years.

8. Chattanooga (spelling): We had a great weekend. Those in Huntsville, it is a good 3 day weekend place.

7. Football field: Doesn't matter where.

6. Huntsville: Another great place to live.

5. Gatlinburg: We had a great time on our honeymoon. I love the Christmas shops (even though it was June)

4. Florence: I enjoyed the city (even though we only had a day there)

3. Rome/Paris: We had a blast on this trip. History and love, can't do that much better.

2. Cruise to Carribean: We loved it. Went to several places, Cozumel, Cancun, Roatan. My favorite place: the ship.

1. My home: I love being at home with Jamey and Avery. (Even Curtis sometimes)

Hopefully Montgomery will be on the list soon...

Top Ten Again

Found this while looking for ideas about top ten's and thought I'd share it. Those of you who know me well know that I am a republican to the core (those on Jason's blog know it almost too well). This list is obviously sarcastic, I do not mean to offend any democrats, just ones who voted for Kerry in the last election (just kidding...well not really). I cannot take credit for the blog but did find it funny. Here you go.

Top Ten Reasons it's Cool to be A Republican
by: LittleOrangeFox


10. You control the weather (and can make hurricanes skip white people entirely.)

9. You can warm the entire globe single-handedly.

8. Your car is the reason the environment is bad. Go you!

7. You started all the wars yourself. Even the ones before you were born.

6. You get cool nicknames like NeoCon.

5. Dennis Miller likes you now.

4. Hillary doesn't.

3. All the elections get fixed in your favor.

2. You get to carry a gun.

And the number one reason it is cool to be a Republican

1. You can destroy entire buildings, make gigantic planes vanish into thin air along with the passengers and blame it on that guy in a turban - while at the same time really annoying Canadians who are on to you.

Top Ten Most Hated Athletes

This is another list for me. Top Ten most hated athletes. My criteria is the athlete must play a major sport and have been hated by most fans not just some (for example I'm sure Michael Jordan is not too popular in Salt Lake City).

10. A-Rod: I actually like him, but to be booed AT HOME in almost every game is something new. If he didn't make $250 million I might feel a little sad for the guy.

9. J.J. Redick: Hasn't even played a game yet but already people are against him. Just my luck that my favorite team (Orlando Magic) spent a first round pick on him.

8. Jeff Gordon: I really don't care but have heard enough people that hate the rainbow warrior that he made the list.

7. Terrell Owens: Hated by two cities now (SF and PHILLY). Soon to add Dallas to the list. Plays well when not chewing out his QB or Coach.

6. Vince Carter: Quit on his team and demanded to be traded and got away with it. Doesn't hurt that he has been a major disapointment in the playoffs.

5. Latrell Sprewell: The man choked his coach. He also invented the worst hairstyle to catch on since the afro.

4. Randy Moss: Been hated by most fans of the NFL for a long time, not likely to change...since he plays for the most hated NFL team (Oakland) now.

3. Kobe Bryant: The man got away with a crime (other than how selfish he plays on the court). He also single-handed ruined the Lakers.

2. Ray Lewis: I personally hate this guy. He is someone who probably got away with murder (literally) and plays for one of the most hated coaches as well in Baltimore.

1. Barry Bonds: This guy was hated before he "grew" a mere 40 pounds of muscle at the age of 40.

Tell me who you think should be on here.

A blog about nothing

This blog will cover nothing... If you are still reading you must watch Seinfeld regularly. I figure if a show can make millions over nothing why not try a blog that actually has no real topic or direction.

Here are a few random thoughts:
1) Why do I like lists so much (I feel like such a nerd)
2) Who decided that kissing was a greeting (have you really thought about kissing. Putting your nasty mouth on someone else and leaving saliva on them)
3) Who invented the wheel? Languages? Why are there other races? (OK sorry to get so deep)

Mascots that I would like to have if I owned a team: Knights, Bulldogs, Eagles or Cobras. Ones that would not be so good: Bison, Camels, Calculators, Muleriders (that is a real one), Wonderboys (also real), Inch Worms, Bunnies.

Great quotes of the 8th grade for the week:
"Why did God create the world in 7 days?" Like I am going to know that
"Why do evolutionist think we came from Animals" They are idots
"Why do we have black and white people and when did they get that color" ????

I am sure to have some more quotes for you next time and maybe a topic. Till then

Top 10 Worst Jelly Belly's

Tonight I'd like to post on one of my favorite candies. The "Jelly Belly" is a great variety in a packet snack. What I love about Jelly Belly's is to be able to look at what I am eating and taste all the different flavors. For any who do not know what Jelly Belly's are, they are an updated version of Jelly Beans. Tonight I tried the buttered popcorn flavor and decided to come up with (with the help of Jamey, Jason and Sunny) a top ten worst flavors.
This list is the top ten worst flavors of Jelly Belly's that never made it to the shelves, Here they are:

10. Vienna Sausage flavor

9. Taco flavor

8. A-1 Sauce

7. Crisco flavored

6. Beef Jerky

5. Egg Roll

4. Cottage Cheese

3. Ranch/Any other salad dressing flavored

2. Shrimp

1. Bacon Flavored

Also, Jason Bybee and I are the most dominate spades players this side of the Mississippi. Up next top ten worst mascots. Let me know if you have any ideas.

Last list for a little

This may be my last post for a few days/weeks. I will be starting back to school Monday and with teaching and coaching my workdays should run from 7-7 (that is if there is no Varsity or JV game, in which case it would be from 7AM-11PM). So I will attempt to update as often as possible. I figured a good way to finish up would be a top 10 sitcom list.
Criteria: I have to have seen it. I have to have thought it was funny (even if looking back at it, it is not as funny as I once thought). It has to have run for several years.

10. Family Matters: Urkel. The name brings the face of this sitcom. At it's prime was a very popular clean sitcom.

9. Family Ties: Michael J. Fox in a sitcom. Before he was 40 and still looked 16.

8. Full House: Looking back this is sooooo not funny. But at the time was a great show.

7. Saved By the Bell: Another one that I don't always like to admit I watched, but was great in the 80's and early 90's. Hurt itself by trying "the college years".

6. Cosby Show: Classic show. These are sometimes still funny to watch the re-runs.

5. Everybody Loves Raymond: These are still hillarious even if I've seen the show 200 times. The characters are all great.

4. Friends: Was the top show for several years. Great actors.

3. Cheers: A classic.

2. MASH: Another that could have been number one.

1. Seinfeld: Still funny to watch, even though it is quickly getting dated. Look at the clothes they where. A show about nothing sparked many spinoff types.

Those with a chance: The Office, King of Queens, Tell me some more

Sports Movies/Servant Hearts

Before I get into my top Sports Movies I'd like to share something I saw today at Alabama Christian. While driving home I saw our maintanance men working on our shrubs and cleaning gutters, etc... Of course I thought nothing about it until I drove by... As I passed them I realized who the "maintanance men" were. The President of ACA, Principle of ACA, and Assistant Priniciple of ACA all covered in sweat and dirt. This made me realize I had made the right decision to come to this school. Places I have been in the past would not have had this happen to say the least. I was very impressed and feel I am under the right type of servant leaders.

Ok, now on to two of my favorite topics, sports and movies. Here is my top 20.
Criteria: Movie must be mainly centered around sport. I don't count cheerleading or sports like Tennis, etc (sports that are stupid). Also, no racecar movies (these may be concidered a sport by some, not me) or Karate weird type sports (sorry Karate Kid fans).

20. Miracle: Great Story. Have to have at least one hockey in the top 20 incase some Canadian reads my blog. Also I enjoy clean movies based on a true story.

19. Happy Gilmore: Love Adam Sandler. One of the few who can make me want to watch golf.

18. The Rookie: Great movie. Another clean one based on a true story. Could've been higher if he hadn't made the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. I'd have changed it and put him on the Cardinals or someone.

17. The Waterboy: Adam Sandler again. A personal favorite with many great lines. "Mamamama said" this is a great movie. Also love when Lawrence Taylor says "Don't do drugs" the week before he gets busted.

16. Heaven Can Wait: Great older movie. For those who have not seen it. The main charater is the starting QB for the Rams. He is "taken" from life to early by his angel. Later on he is placed in a millionares body for awhile. Comedy that is worth renting some night. Women will even watch it with you for the smaller love story that develops.

15. White Men Can't Jump: Classic. Great actors, great plot, great dialogue.

14. Varsity Blues: Had to put it up there for the football scenes. Not a big fan of the rest of the stuff, but it had great action scenes.

13. Major Leagues Series: The first was one of the funniest movies every. Baseball fans will love it for the action, I love it for the comedy.

12. The Program: Movie that show the corruption in college sports. We don't know much about that down here around Auburn (Oops).

11. Radio: Great clean movie based on a true story.

10. Bull Duram: Classic.

9. A League of their own: Wasn't sure about putting this one up here. Not a big softball (even though they are playing baseball) fan. But the cast makes the movie. Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, Rosie O'Donnell, Madonna.

8. Field of Dreams: Great movie. Another that the whole family can enjoy.

7. The Longest Yard: Both the original and remake were great. If you have not seen the original with "The Burt" watch it.

6. Raging Bull: Robert De Niro is great as a boxer in this classic.

5. The Natural: Great Baseball classic. The last scene with the homerun is great. Only problem is that Robert Redford was already too old for this part.

4. Rudy: Could move up later. Great clean family movie.

3. Rocky Series: Rocky IV is my all-time favorite movie (the one vs. the Russian). The others are classics. This will move down on the list if the rumored Rocky VI comes out.

2. Hoosiers: Could have been number one. Great movie for the family.

1. Remember the Titans: I know it is a newer movie, but man what a classic already. Great Actors and the worlds best sport. Has great action shots and teaches several lessons. And clean enough to show any audience.


Honorable Mentions: Eight Men Out, Summer Catch, The Last Boyscout, Out Cold, Jerry Maguire, 61, All the right Moves, Friday Night Lights, Any Given Sunday, Everybody's All American, Tin Cup, Bagger Vance, Brian's Song, North Dallas Forty, Sandlot, Might Ducks, Mystery Alaska, For Love of the Game, Chariots of Fire, Bad News Bears

Worsts: He got Game, Love and Basketball, The sixth man, Basketball Diaries, Blue Chips (Notice these are all basketball movies)

Till next time