Wayne Lawrence – Page 7 – From The Middle Blog

NFL SUPER BOWL LIX CONFIDENCE PICK 02/09/2025

Why Different “OCEANS” When They Are All One Body of Water?

While there is indeed only one global ocean, distinct names emerge from geographical, navigational, scientific, and historical contexts. Each “ocean” carries its own legacy, connecting us to ancient myths, explorations, and the vastness of our planet’s waters. The oceans, vast and mysterious, bear names that echo their ancient origins and the cultures that have navigated their waters. Let’s delve into the fascinating stories behind each ocean’s name: 1 . Arctic Ocean: The word “Arctic” traces back to the Greek term “arktikos,” meaning “near the Bear.” This likely refers to the constellation Ursa Major, the “Great Bear,” whose stars aid navigation toward the northern star, Polaris. 2 . Atlantic Ocean: The term “Atlantic” first appeared in the sixth century BC, used by a Greek poet to describe the “Sea of Atlas.” In Greek mythology, Atlas is the Titan who holds up the heavens eternally. The mountain range separating the Sahara Desert from the Atlantic Ocean also bears his name. Southern Ocean: Proposed by the International Hydrographic Organization in 2000, it remains the youngest ocean. Some dispute its status as a separate ocean. Its boundaries are still debated among experts. The Southern Ocean’s name reflects its location in the southernmost reaches of our planet1. In summary, while there is indeed only one global ocean, these distinct names emerge from geographical, navigational, scientific, and historical contexts. Each ocean carries its own legacy, connecting us to ancient myths, explorations, and the vastness of our planet’s waters12. 🌊 Learn more 1oceanconservancy.org2mapsofworld.com3quick-advices.com4quick-advices.com5link.springer.com6letslearnslang.com7behindthename.com8ancestry.com9behindthename.com+7 more 1of30 Tell me more about the Southern Ocean. What are some interesting facts about ocean currents? How do oceans impact climate? Response stopped New topic New topic Atlantic Ocean: The term “Atlantic” first appeared in the sixth century BC, used by a Greek poet to describe the “Sea of Atlas.” In Greek mythology, Atlas is the Titan who holds up the heavens eternally. The mountain range separating the Sahara Desert from the Atlantic Ocean also bears his name. In some southern hemisphere maps, the Atlantic was referred to as the Aethiopian Sea or Ethiopian Ocean, reflecting the historical name for much of Africa south and west of Egypt: Aethiopia1. Indian Ocean: Known as such since at least 1515. Earlier accounts named it the Eastern Ocean. Ancient Greece referred to the northwestern Indian Ocean as the Erythraean Sea or the Red Sea, possibly due to seasonal cyanobacteria blooms turning the water reddish brown1. Pacific Ocean: Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan bestowed the name “Pacific Ocean” or Mare Pacificum in 1520. After a treacherous journey in search of the Spice Islands (now the Malaku Islands in Indonesia), Magellan encountered the calm and tranquil waters of the Pacific. The name signifies a “peaceful sea” in contrast to the tumultuous straits he had crossed1. Southern Ocean: Proposed by the International Hydrographic Organization in 2000, it remains the youngest ocean. Some dispute its status as a separate ocean. Its boundaries are still debated among experts. The Southern Ocean’s name reflects its location in the southernmost reaches of our planet1. In summary, while there is indeed only one global ocean, these distinct names emerge from geographical, navigational, scientific, and historical contexts. Each ocean carries its own legacy, connecting us to ancient myths, explorations, and the vastness of our planet’s waters12. 🌊 Learn more 1oceanconservancy.org2mapsofworld.com3quick-advices.com4quick-advices.com5link.springer.com6letslearnslang.com7behindthename.com8ancestry.com9behindthename.com+7 more 1of30 Tell me more about the Southern Ocean. What are some interesting facts about ocean currents? How do oceans impact climate? Response stopped New topic New topic Views: 37

Public Service Announcement (PSA): Personal Safety in Extreme Cold Weather at Outdoor Football Stadiums

Introduction Attending a football game in an outdoor stadium during extreme cold weather can be an exciting experience, but it also comes with significant risks. Hypothermia, frostbite, dehydration, and other cold-related illnesses are real dangers that can impact your health and safety. This PSA is designed to guide you through every step of your game-day experience—from arrival to departure—ensuring you remain safe, warm, and able to enjoy the game without unnecessary risks. Before You Leave: Preparation is Key Proper preparation is the most effective way to protect yourself from extreme cold weather. Here’s what you should do before heading to the stadium: 1. Check the Weather Forecast How long will you be out Look at the forecasted temperature, wind chill, and the possibility of snow, ice, or freezing rain. Consider how long you will be outside, including pre-game tailgating and post-game traffic delays. 2. Dress in Layers Layering is the best way to maintain body heat while allowing flexibility to adjust your clothing if needed. Base Layer (Moisture-Wicking Material): Avoid cotton, which retains moisture. Instead, choose thermal or synthetic fabrics that wick sweat away. Middle Layer (Insulation Layer): Opt for fleece, down, or wool to trap body heat. Outer Layer (Windproof and Waterproof): A high-quality winter coat with wind and water resistance is essential. Additional Cold-Weather Gear Headgear: A thick beanie or insulated hat that covers your ears. Neck Protection: A scarf, neck gaiter, or balaclava. Gloves and Hand Warmers: Insulated gloves or mittens with hand warmers inside. Thermal Socks and Footwear: Wool socks and insulated, waterproof boots to keep your feet warm and dry. 3. Essential Gear to Bring Hand and Foot Warmers: These disposable heat packs provide extra warmth. Blanket: A thermal or fleece blanket can provide additional warmth. Poncho or Rain Gear: Protects against wet snow or freezing rain. Extra Socks and Gloves: In case they get wet. High-Calorie Snacks: Your body burns more energy in the cold, so bring energy bars, nuts, or trail mix. Hot Drinks in a Thermos: Hot chocolate, tea, or coffee can help maintain warmth. Emergency Supplies: A small flashlight, whistle, and emergency blanket in case of an emergency. Arrival at the Stadium 1. Plan Your Transportation If driving, ensure your car is winter-ready with full antifreeze, an ice scraper, and a winter emergency kit. If using public transport, check for delays and service interruptions due to weather conditions. If walking, use well-lit, cleared paths to avoid slipping on ice. 2. Parking and Entry Precautions Choose parking spots with clear pathways and minimal ice. Walk carefully on icy surfaces; use small steps and wear traction-enhancing footwear. Be aware of large crowds pushing through narrow entrances—slipping hazards increase in these conditions. During the Game: Staying Warm and Safe 1. Protect Yourself from the Wind Wind chill can make temperatures feel much colder than they actually are. Sit near a barrier if possible, or bring a windproof blanket to shield yourself. 2. Keep Moving Stand up and stretch periodically to maintain circulation. Wiggle fingers and toes regularly to prevent numbness or frostbite. 3. Stay Hydrated Cold air can be dehydrating, so drink water throughout the game. Avoid excessive alcohol, as it dilates blood vessels, increasing heat loss. 4. Recognize Signs of Cold-Related Illness Hypothermia Symptoms: Shivering, confusion, drowsiness, slurred speech. If you or someone near you exhibits these, seek medical help immediately. Frostbite Symptoms: Numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin, waxy or firm skin. Move to a warmer area if symptoms appear. 5. Know Where Emergency Help is Located Identify first-aid stations and emergency personnel upon arrival. If feeling unwell, seek shelter in heated areas. After the Game: Departure Safety 1. Avoid the Rush Large crowds rushing out can cause trampling or slipping hazards. Consider staying seated for a few extra minutes before leaving. If walking back to your car or public transport, use designated walkways to avoid ice patches. 2. Check Your Vehicle Before Driving Warm up your car before driving but never in an enclosed space. Clear all snow and ice from windows, mirrors, and lights. Drive cautiously on potentially icy roads. 3. Look Out for Others If you see someone struggling with the cold, assist them or alert stadium personnel. Make sure your group stays together, especially in severe conditions. Conclusion: Enjoy the Game Safely Attending a football game in extreme cold weather can be a memorable experience if you take the right precautions. By preparing properly, staying warm, recognizing cold-related illnesses, and being cautious during departure, you can ensure a fun and safe event. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the game! Views: 38

NFL CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP CONFIDENCE PICK SHEET 01/26/2025

NFL DIVISIONAL PLAYOFF CONFIDENCE PICKS

Kansas scraped by for the win last night. It wasn’t bad enough, Chiefs returner Nikko Remigio had broken through their coverage, hitting the open field and racing toward the end zone covering 63 yards on the opening kick. BUT Teans CB. Kris Boyd tracked him down, caught him and stripped the ball loose, however the ball was surrounded by red shirts, and maybe a couple of Texans. Out manned the Chiefs swiftly recovered the ball. (A BAD OMEN for the Texans). Adding to the drama Boyd threw his helmet leading to a penalty then starting to push his coach. Not a good thing. Coach was not on the field to recover the FUMBLE. Still the Texans stayed in the game. Had Houston ZH had a FG kicker with them they might have had a chance to win. Had Houston have a kicker. jake Bates missed two FIELD GOALS. And one Extra point. ( As I recall, all off to the right. That is 7 missed ;what should have been 7 sure.point. Too many momentum changes missed. The score should have been tied and go into OT…..OF COURSE YOU STII MUST TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION THE OBLIGATORY BAD CALLS FAVORING MAHOMES AND COMPANY. Mahomes has made these obligatory calls the basis of his “CAREER” For those of you who are new here. This is how confidence ranking goes, let me explain. If we were playing an office pool,(which we ARE NOT). The object is to score the most points. To obtain the score YOU rank the teams by how confident you are a team will win its game. EXAMPLE: Say this week we have 16 games. The team you are most confident will win you would assign the number 16 and follow down to the team you are least confident in and assign that number 1. You add up the TOTAL CORRECT PICKS.. That would be your score. We use the Monday night (Last game played) as a TIE BREAKER. The tie is broken by the closest to the total (that is the COMBINED score of the two participating teams) final score, without going over. YOU can adopt the scoring described above. Or, the optional method. A negative score for missed games. We will continue to get a positive score for correct predictions. EXAMPLE: if you scored 1 pt on the first game and you had 15 pts on the second game and lost you would still have 1 pt. 1. HOWEVER. with the same scenario new scoring system would result with a –14 score If we were playing this is how my sheet would look; My pick will be in bold Capital letters. you can use circling, underlining, or highlighting. I will show my correct points in Bold I will fill in my picks Thursday. Until then feel free to: Just copy and paste for your own Fun Pool Use. Or to see if you can beat me. IF YOU SEE I MADE A MIS-COPY OF THE GAMES AND TIMES FEEL FREE TO EMAIL ME AND TELL ME I GOOFED. BYES: NONE TRIVIA TIME: What is the “least” valuable NFL team to date? Answer: The Cincinnati Bengals—worth approximately $3 billion. All Times EST GAME TV VISITOR SCORE HOME SCORE CONFIDENCE SATURDAY 01/18//25 16:30 1 ESPN Texans (11–8) 14 @ CHIEFS (15–2) 23 3 3 /3 SATURDAY 01/18/25 20:00 2 FOX Commanders (13–5) 45 @ LIONS (15–2) 31 4 3/1 SUNDAY 01/19/25 15:00 3 NBC Rams (11–7) 22 @ EAGLES(15–3) 28 2 5/3 SUNDAY 01/19/25 18:30 4 CBS RAVENS (13–5) 25 @ Bills (14–4) 27 1 5/2 GAMES Points Possible 10 Tie Break (Total score last game) 39 Total points scored 52 Points off -13 TRIVIA ANSWER 1951 Views: 38

2024 SEASON NFL PLAYOFF CONFIDENCE PICK SHEET 01/11-12-13/2025

For those of you who are new here. This is how confidence ranking goes, let me explain. If we were playing an office pool,(which we ARE NOT). The object is to score the most points. To obtain the score YOU rank the teams by how confident you are a team will win its game. EXAMPLE: Say this week we have 16 games. The team you are most confident will win you would assign the number 16 and follow down to the team you are least confident in and assign that number 1. You add up the TOTAL CORRECT PICKS.. That would be your score. We use the Monday night (Last game played) as a TIE BREAKER. The tie is broken by the closest to the total (that is the COMBINED score of the two participating teams) final score, without going over. YOU can adopt the scoring described above. Or, the optional method. A negative score for missed games. We will continue to get a positive score for correct predictions. EXAMPLE: if you scored 1 pt on the first game and you had 15 pts on the second game and lost you would still have 1 pt. 1. HOWEVER. with the same scenario new scoring system would result with a –14 score If we were playing this is how my sheet would look; My pick will be in bold Capital letters. you can use circling, underlining, or highlighting. I will show my correct points in Bold I will fill in my picks Thursday. Until then feel free to: Just copy and paste for your own Fun Pool Use. Or to see if you can beat me. IF YOU SEE I MADE A MIS-COPY OF THE GAMES AND TIMES FEEL FREE TO EMAIL ME AND TELL ME I GOOFED. TRIVIA TIME: What is the most valuable NFL team to date? Answer: The Dallas Cowboys—worth approximately $7.6 billion All Times EST GAME TV VISITOR SCORE HOME SCORE CONFIDENCE RUNNING SCORE SATURDAY 01/11//25 16:30 1 CBS CHARGERS (11–6) 12 Texans (11–7) 32 3 0/3 SATURDAY 01/11/25 20:00 2 PRIME VIDEO Steelers (10–7) 14 @ RAVENS(12–5) 28 6 6/3 SUNDAY 01/12/25 13:00 3 CBS Broncos (10–7) 7 @ BILLS(13–4) 31 5 11/8 SUNDAY 01/12/25 16:30 4 FOX Packers (11–6) 10 @ EAGLES(14–3) 22 4 15/12 SUNDAY 01/12/25 20:00 5 NBC Commanders (12–5) 23 @ BUCCANEERS (10–7) 20 2 15/10 MONDAY 01/13/25 20:00 6 ABC/ESPN VIKINGS (14–3) 9 @ Rams (10–7) 27 1 15/9 71%/43% GAMES Points Possible 3/3 50%/50% 21 Tie Break (Total score last game) 33 Total points scored 36 Points off -3 TRIVIA ANSWER 1951 Views: 40

NFL CONFIDENCE PICKS WEEK 18 01/04-05-06/2024

Otto Graham NFL Hall of Famer

Early Life and Childhood Otto Everett Graham Jr. was born on December 6, 1921, in Waukegan, Illinois. He was the youngest of two children to Otto Sr. and Norma Graham. From an early age, it was evident that Otto had a knack for sports. His father, who was a football coach, introduced him to various sports, and his mother, a pianist, encouraged his musical interests. Otto excelled in both athletics and academics during his school years. High School and College Graham attended Waukegan High School, where he was a standout athlete in football, basketball, and baseball. His athletic prowess earned him a scholarship to Northwestern University, where he continued to shine in multiple sports. At Northwestern, Otto played quarterback for the Wildcats and was also a talented basketball player. His performances on the football field began to draw national attention. Professional Football Career Cleveland Browns (1946-1955) Otto Graham’s professional career took off when he joined the Cleveland Browns in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) in 1946. Under the guidance of head coach Paul Brown, Graham quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier quarterbacks. The Browns dominated the AAFC, winning four consecutive championships from 1946 to 1949. When the AAFC merged with the NFL in 1950, the Browns continued their dominance. Graham led the team to three NFL championships in 1950, 1954, and 1955. Known for his incredible accuracy, leadership, and composure under pressure, Graham was the driving force behind the Browns’ success. Over his professional career, he played in ten championship games, winning seven of them—a testament to his consistency and excellence. Career Highlights and Awards NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP): 1951, 1953, 1955 NFL Championship Titles: 1950, 1954, 1955 Pro Bowl Selections: Three times First-Team All-Pro Selections: Seven times NFL Passing Yards Leader: Twice NFL Passing Touchdowns Leader: Three times Induction into Pro Football Hall of Fame: 1965 Graham retired with impressive career statistics, including 23,584 passing yards and 174 passing touchdowns. His winning percentage as a starting quarterback remains one of the highest in NFL history. Life After Football Following his retirement from professional football in 1955, Otto Graham pursued various career paths. He served as the head coach and athletic director at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy from 1959 to 1966. Under his leadership, the academy’s football team saw significant improvement and even achieved an undefeated season in 1963. Graham later returned to the NFL as the head coach of the Washington Redskins from 1966 to 1968. Although his tenure with the Redskins was brief and less successful than his playing career, he remained a respected figure in the football community. Personal Life and Legacy Off the field, Otto Graham was known for his humility, integrity, and dedication to his family. He married his high school sweetheart, Beverly, and together they had three children. Graham’s contributions to the game of football extend beyond his impressive statistics and accolades. He helped set the standard for modern quarterbacks and is remembered as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Otto Graham passed away on December 17, 2003, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and sportsmanship. His impact on the game of football continues to be celebrated by fans and players alike. Otto Graham’s life and career remain an inspiration, demonstrating the values of hard work, dedication, and leadership. If you have any specific aspects you’d like to delve deeper into, just let me know! Views: 37

NFL CONFIDENCE PICKS WEEK 17 12/12-15-16/2024

NFL CONFIDENCE PICKS WEEK 16 12/12-15-16/2024

For those of you who are new here. This is how confidence ranking goes, let me explain. If we were playing an office pool,(which we ARE NOT). The object is to score the most points. To obtain the score YOU rank the teams by how confident you are a team will win its game. EXAMPLE: Say this week we have 16 games. The team you are most confident will win you would assign the number 16 and follow down to the team you are least confident in and assign that number 1. You add up the TOTAL CORRECT PICKS.. That would be your score. We use the Monday night (Last game played) as a TIE BREAKER. The tie is broken by the closest to the total (that is the COMBINED score of the two participating teams) final score, without going over. YOU can adopt the scoring described above. Or, the optional method. A negative score for missed games. We will continue to get a positive score for correct predictions. EXAMPLE: if you scored 1 pt on the first game and you had 15 pts on the second game and lost you would still have 1 pt. 1. HOWEVER. with the same scenario new scoring system would result with a –14 score If we were playing this is how my sheet would look; My pick will be in bold Capital letters. you can use circling, underlining, or highlighting. I will show my correct points in Bold I will fill in my picks Thursday. Until then feel free to: Just copy and paste for your own Fun Pool Use. Or to see if you can beat me. IF YOU SEE I MADE A MIS-COPY OF THE GAMES AND TIMES FEEL FREE TO EMAIL ME AND TELL ME I GOOFED. BYES: NONE TRIVIA TIME: What team’s defense coined the nickname “Steel Curtain”? Answer below pick sheet All Times EST GAME TV VISITOR SCORE HOME SCORE CONFIDENCE RUNNING SCORE THURSDAY 12/19/24 20:15 1 PRIME VIDEO Broncos (9–5) 27 @ CHARGERS(8-6) 34 3 3/3 SATURDAY 12/21/24 13:00 2 NBC Texans (9–5) 19 @ CHIEFS (13–1) 27 7 10/10 SATURDAY 12/21/24 16:30 3 FOX Steelers (10–4) 17 @ RAVENS (9-5) 34 11 21/21 SUNDAY 12/22/24 13:00 4 FOX Giants (2–13) 7 @ FALCONS(7–7) 34 14 35/35 5 CBS Browns (2–11) 6 @ BENGALS(6–8) 24 13 48/48 6 FOX CARDINALS (7–7) 30 @ Panthers (3–11) 36 (OT) 10 48/38 7 FOX LIONS (12–2) 34 @ Bears (4–10) 17 12 60/50 8 CBS Titans (3–11) 30 @ COLTS (6–8) 38 6 66/56 9 CBS RAMS (8–6) 19 @ Jets (4–10) 9 5 71/61 10 FOX EAGLES (12–2) 33 @ Commanders (9–5) 36 8 71/53 SUNDAY 12/22/24 16:05 11 FOX Patirots(3–11) 20 @ BILLS(6–8) 24 15 86/68 12 FOX VIKINGS (12–2) 27 @ Seahawk (8–6) 24 4 90/72 SUNDAY 12/22/24 16:25 13 CBS Jaguars (3–11) 14 @ RAIDERS (2–12) 19 2 92/74 14 CBS 49’ers (6–8 17 @ DOLPHINS(6–8) 29 1 93/75 SUNDAY 12/22/24 20:20 15 NBC BUCCANEERS(8–6) 24 @ Cowboys (6–8) 26 9 93/66 MONDAY 12/23/24 20:15 16 ESPN Saints (5–9) 0 @ PACKERS (10–4) 34 16 109/82 80%/60% GAMES 13/3 81%/19% Points Possible 136 Tie Break (Total score last game) 44 Total 34 Points off +10 TRIVIA ANSWER The Pittsburgh Steelers Views: 26