The Los Angeles Chargers have a very distinctive history in professional football. Founded in 1959 as a charter member of the American Football League, the Chargers began play in Los Angeles in 1960, moved to San Diego in 1961, and returned to Los Angeles in 2017. The franchise has produced Hall of Fame players, innovative coaches, record-setting quarterbacks and one of the most influential offensive systems in NFL history. The Birth of the Chargers The Chargers were awarded to Los Angeles on August 14, 1959, as one of the eight original AFL franchises. They began their first season in 1960. The team’s founding owner was Barron Hilton, who purchased the franchise rights for $25,000. Hilton also held a contest to select the team’s name, with “Chargers” ultimately being chosen. The Chargers immediately became one of the AFL’s most competitive teams under head coach Sid Gillman. They won five division titles during their first six seasons and captured the 1963 AFL Championship. Chargers Owners The franchise has had several ownership eras. Barron Hilton — 1960–1966 Hilton was the Chargers’ founding owner and the person who brought the franchise into existence. His Chargers won the 1963 AFL Championship and helped establish the club as one of the AFL’s strongest organizations. Eugene V. Klein and the ownership group — 1966–1984 In 1966, Hilton sold the Chargers to a group headed by Eugene V. Klein and Sam Schulman. Klein became the club’s principal owner. The Klein era eventually produced the famous “Air Coryell” Chargers. Klein hired Don Coryell during the 1978 season, and the Chargers became one of the NFL’s premier offensive teams. Alex Spanos — 1984–2018 Alex Spanos purchased controlling interest in the Chargers from Klein in 1984. He subsequently acquired additional shares and became the dominant owner of the franchise. Spanos’ ownership included the team’s 1994 AFC championship and its appearance in Super Bowl XXIX following the 1994 season. Dean Spanos — Controlling owner Alex Spanos turned day-to-day control of the organization over to his son Dean Spanos in the 1990s. Dean became the team’s controlling owner and chairman and led the franchise through its move back to Los Angeles in 2017. The Chargers remain a Spanos family-owned franchise. Every Stadium the Chargers Have Called Home The Chargers have had an unusually varied stadium history because of their move from Los Angeles to San Diego and eventually back to Los Angeles. Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum — 1960 The original Los Angeles Chargers played their inaugural 1960 season at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. That first season established the Chargers as an exciting AFL franchise before the team relocated to San Diego. Balboa Stadium — San Diego — 1961–1966 The Chargers moved to San Diego for the 1961 season and played at Balboa Stadium. This became the franchise’s first San Diego home. San Diego Stadium — 1967–2016 The Chargers moved into the newly constructed San Diego Stadium in 1967. The facility subsequently carried several names: San Diego Stadium Jack Murphy Stadium Qualcomm Stadium The Chargers spent nearly five decades playing their home games at the facility. There was one unusual exception in 2003, when a Chargers home game was played at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, Arizona, because of the Cedar Fire in San Diego. Dignity Health Sports Park — Carson — 2017–2019 When the franchise returned to Los Angeles in 2017, the Chargers initially played at the small Carson venue then known as StubHub Center. It was renamed Dignity Health Sports Park in 2019. The Chargers played there through the 2019 season while their permanent Los Angeles stadium was being constructed. SoFi Stadium — Inglewood — 2020–present The Chargers moved into SoFi Stadium in 2020. They share the stadium with the Los Angeles Rams, making SoFi Stadium the current home of both Los Angeles NFL franchises. The Chargers’ first season at the facility began a new chapter in the franchise’s history. Chargers in the Pro Football Hall of Fame There is an important distinction in discussing Chargers Hall of Famers. The Pro Football Hall of Fame identifies 16 franchise members associated with the Chargers through the 2025 season. However, some of those individuals earned their Hall of Fame recognition largely or partly through careers with other organizations. For this article, the focus is on players and coaches whose Chargers careers are central to their Chargers legacy. Lance Alworth Position: Wide receiver Chargers: 1962–1970 Hall of Fame: 1978 Alworth was the first Chargers player elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He became one of the AFL’s great deep threats and was a centerpiece of the Chargers’ championship-era teams. Ron Mix Position: Offensive tackle Chargers: 1960–1969 Hall of Fame: 1979 Mix was one of the dominant offensive linemen of the AFL era and played a major role in protecting Chargers quarterbacks during the club’s early success. Sid Gillman Position: Head coach Chargers: 1960–1971 Hall of Fame: 1983 Gillman helped establish the Chargers as an offensive innovator. His coaching philosophy emphasized sophisticated passing concepts and helped influence generations of NFL coaches. Dan Fouts Position: Quarterback Chargers: 1973–1987 Hall of Fame: 1993 Fouts became the defining quarterback of the Air Coryell era. His combination of arm strength, accuracy and aggressive downfield passing made him one of the NFL’s most prolific quarterbacks. Kellen Winslow Position: Tight end Chargers: 1979–1987 Hall of Fame: 1995 Winslow revolutionized the possibilities of the tight end position. His receiving ability made him a critical component of the Chargers’ high-powered offense. Charlie Joiner Position: Wide receiver Chargers: 1976–1986 Hall of Fame: 1996 Joiner was one of the key members of the Chargers’ receiving corps and became one of the most productive receivers of his era. Fred Dean … Continue reading The History of the NFL Chargers: From the AFL to the Los Angeles Era
Tag: Arizona
Arizona Cardinals: A History of the NFL’s Oldest Continuous Franchise
The Arizona Cardinals are one of the most historic franchises in professional football. Their story began in Chicago more than a century ago, continued through St. Louis, moved to Phoenix, and eventually reached the present-day home in Glendale, Arizona. The Cardinals are the oldest continuously operating professional football franchise. The organization traces its roots to the Morgan Athletic Club, founded in Chicago in 1898. The team became the Chicago Cardinals and joined the NFL as a charter member in 1920. Over the decades, the franchise has been known as the Chicago Cardinals, Card-Pitt, St. Louis Cardinals, Phoenix Cardinals and Arizona Cardinals. The Cardinals have won two NFL championships, in 1925 and 1947, and their greatest modern achievement came when they won the NFC Championship in 2008 and advanced to Super Bowl XLIII. The Beginning: From Morgan Athletic Club to the Cardinals The franchise began in Chicago in 1898 as the Morgan Athletic Club. Chris O’Brien became one of the central figures in establishing the organization. The team eventually became known as the Cardinals because of the color of its uniforms. Rather than abandoning an old set of uniforms, O’Brien reportedly described their color as “Cardinal red,” and the nickname remained. In 1920, the Cardinals became one of the original members of the American Professional Football Association, which soon became the National Football League. That makes the Cardinals one of the two surviving franchises from the original 1920 NFL, along with the Chicago Bears. Cardinals Franchise Names Through the Years 1898–1920 — Morgan Athletic Club and early Chicago Cardinals 1920–1943 — Chicago Cardinals 1944 — Card-Pitt During World War II, the Cardinals temporarily combined with the Pittsburgh Steelers because of the shortage of available players. 1945–1959 — Chicago Cardinals 1960–1987 — St. Louis Cardinals 1988–1993 — Phoenix Cardinals 1994–present — Arizona Cardinals The franchise’s geographic journey is one of the most unusual in NFL history. All Cardinals Owners The Cardinals have had a relatively small number of ownership groups compared with their age, largely because of the remarkable length of the Bidwill family’s ownership. All Cardinals Owners Chris O’Brien 1898–1929 Chris O’Brien was the principal early owner and one of the foundational figures of the franchise. He sold the Chicago Cardinals to David Jones in 1929. David Jones 1929–1932 Jones owned the Cardinals for approximately three years before selling the franchise to Charles W. Bidwill. Charles W. Bidwill Sr. 1932–1947 Charles Bidwill purchased the Cardinals in 1932 and began what became the NFL’s longest-running family ownership tradition. Bidwill died in 1947, before seeing the Cardinals win the NFL championship that season. He was later inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Violet Bidwill Wolfner 1947–1962 Following Charles Bidwill’s death, his widow, Violet Bidwill, became owner. Violet was a remarkable figure in NFL history. She was the Violet Bidwill Wolfner history and guided the Cardinals to the 1947 NFL championship during her first season as owner. She also oversaw the franchise during its 1948 division championship season and eventually made the decision to move the Cardinals from Chicago to St. Louis in 1960. Charles “Stormy” Bidwill Jr. and William “Bill” Bidwill 1962–1972 After Violet Bidwill died in 1962, her sons Charles Jr. and Bill inherited the Cardinals. The brothers operated the franchise together for approximately a decade. William V. “Bill” Bidwill. 1972–2019 Bill Bidwill purchased his brother’s share in 1972 and became the Cardinals’ sole owner. His ownership included the team’s final years in St. Louis, the relocation to Arizona in 1988, the Phoenix Cardinals era, the transition to the Arizona Cardinals name in 1994, and the team’s first Super Bowl appearance. Under Bill Bidwill, the Cardinals moved from Sun Devil Stadium to their present-day home in 2006. Michael Bidwill 2019–present Michael Bidwill became owner following the death of his father, Bill Bidwill, in 2019. Michael had previously served as Cardinals president and had been heavily involved in the development of the team’s modern business and stadium operations. The Bidwill family therefore has maintained ownership of the Cardinals for more than nine decades. Every Stadium Called Home by the Cardinals Few NFL franchises have had a more complicated history of home stadiums. Normal Park — Chicago 1920–1921 and 1926–1928 Normal Park was one of the Cardinals’ earliest NFL home fields. The Cardinals returned there after playing elsewhere during part of the 1920s. Comiskey Park — Chicago 1922–1925, 1929–1930 and 1939–1958 Comiskey Park, primarily associated with Major League Baseball’s Chicago White Sox, served as a major Cardinals home for many years. It was also the site of the Cardinals’ dramatic 1947 NFL Championship victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. Wrigley Field — Chicago 1931–1938 The Cardinals played their home games at Wrigley Field, the famous home of baseball’s Chicago Cubs. For several seasons, Wrigley Field therefore served as a home for two NFL teams as well as the Cubs. Soldier Field — Chicago 1959 The Cardinals played four home games at Soldier Field during their final season in Chicago. Metropolitan Stadium — Bloomington, Minnesota 1959 The Cardinals also played two home games at Metropolitan Stadium during their final season before moving to St. Louis. Forbes Field — Pittsburgh 1944 During the temporary Card-Pitt merger with the Steelers, several games were played at Pittsburgh’s Forbes Field. Busch Stadium — St. Louis 1960–1965 When the Cardinals moved from Chicago to St. Louis in 1960, they played at the baseball Cardinals’ Busch Stadium, then known as Sportsman’s Park. Busch Memorial Stadium — St. Louis 1966–1987 The Cardinals moved into the new Busch Memorial Stadium in downtown St. Louis in 1966. The St. Louis Cardinals enjoyed some of their strongest regular-season success during the 1970s, winning NFC Eastern Division championships in 1974 and 1975. Sun Devil Stadium — Tempe, Arizona 1988–2005 The franchise moved from St. Louis to Arizona in 1988 and initially played at Arizona State University’s Sun Devil Stadium. The team was known as the Phoenix Cardinals… Continue reading Arizona Cardinals: A History of the NFL’s Oldest Continuous Franchise
Washington Nationals: The Complete History of the Expos and Nationals
I’m treating the Montreal Expos and Washington Nationals as one continuous MLB franchise, because MLB recognizes the Nationals’ franchise history as beginning with the Expos in 1969. The franchise moved to Washington after the 2004 season. The Washington Nationals have one of the most unusual histories in Major League Baseball. The franchise began not in Washington, D.C., but in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, as the Montreal Expos in 1969. After 36 seasons in Montreal, the franchise moved to Washington for the 2005 season and became the Washington Nationals. Although the Nationals are a relatively young Washington club, their franchise history stretches back to 1969 and includes Hall of Famers, Cy Young winners, MVPs, Rookie of the Year winners, legendary trades and, finally, a World Series championship. The franchise has played under two names: Montreal Expos — 1969–2004 Washington Nationals — 2005–present MLB’s official history treats the Expos and Nationals as one franchise. The Beginning: Montreal Gets Major League Baseball Montreal was awarded a National League expansion franchise in 1968, and the Expos began play in 1969. They became the first Major League Baseball team located outside the United States. The franchise’s founding principal owner was Charles Bronfman, the Canadian businessman and Seagram executive who helped bring Major League Baseball to Montreal. The Expos played their first game on April 8, 1969, at Shea Stadium against the New York Mets and won 11–10. Six days later, Montreal hosted its first home game at Jarry Park. The early Expos struggled to win consistently, but the organization developed a remarkable collection of young talent. Franchise Ownership Montreal Expos Charles Bronfman — 1969–1991 Bronfman was the founding principal owner and the man most responsible for bringing Major League Baseball to Montreal. He remained in control of the club until 1991. He was later inducted into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame. Claude Brochu — 1991–1999 Brochu led a consortium of Canadian investors that purchased the club from Bronfman. He became the Expos’ managing general partner and attempted to keep the franchise in Montreal despite serious financial and stadium problems. Jeffrey Loria — 1999–2002 Loria acquired control of the Expos in 1999. His ownership became controversial, particularly as the club struggled financially and attempts to secure a new Montreal stadium failed. Major League Baseball — 2002–2006 MLB took control of the Expos in 2002. The franchise remained under league ownership through its final Montreal seasons and its first season in Washington. Washington Nationals Ownership Major League Baseball — 2004–2006 MLB owned and operated the franchise during the transition from Montreal to Washington. Ted Lerner and the Lerner Family — 2006–2023 In July 2006, the Lerner family officially purchased the Nationals from MLB for $450 million. Ted Lerner became the managing principal owner. The Lerners oversaw the construction and opening of Nationals Park and eventually celebrated the greatest moment in franchise history: the 2019 World Series championship. Mark Lerner — 2018–present as Managing Principal Owner Ted Lerner transferred the managing principal-owner position to his son Mark Lerner in 2018, although the Lerner family has continued to own the franchise. As of 2026, the Lerner family remains the owner of the Nationals. Every Major League Home Ballpark Montreal Expos Jarry Park — 1969–1976 Jarry Park was the original home of the Montreal Expos. It was a converted minor-league facility expanded to Major League standards. It hosted the franchise’s first home game in 1969. Olympic Stadium — 1977–2004 The Expos moved into Olympic Stadium in 1977. The stadium had been built for the 1976 Summer Olympics. It remained Montreal’s primary Major League home until the franchise moved to Washington. Hiram Bithorn Stadium — San Juan, Puerto Rico — 2003–2004 The Expos played portions of their home schedule in San Juan during their final two Montreal seasons as MLB searched for a permanent solution to the franchise’s problems. Washington Ballparks RFK Stadium — 2005–2007 When baseball returned to Washington in 2005, the Nationals initially played at Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium. The club played three seasons there before moving into its new ballpark. Nationals Park — 2008–present Nationals Park opened on March 30, 2008. The Nationals defeated Atlanta 3–2 in the first regular-season game at the new stadium, with Ryan Zimmerman hitting a walk-off home run. Nationals Park finally gave Washington a permanent baseball-only home and became the setting for the 2019 World Series championship celebration. The Greatest Hall of Famers in Franchise History The franchise has produced or developed an extraordinary number of Hall of Fame players. Because Hall of Fame plaques are based on a player’s career and may use a different team logo, this list includes Hall of Famers who played for the Expos/Nationals franchise rather than suggesting that all entered Cooperstown representing Montreal or Washington. Gary Carter Position: Catcher Born: Culver City, California Hall of Fame: 2003 Carter became one of the greatest catchers in baseball history and remains the most iconic Hall of Famer associated with the Montreal Expos. He played for Montreal from 1974–1984 and again in 1992. Carter was a seven-time All-Star and helped the New York Mets win the 1986 World Series after leaving Montreal. Tim Raines Position: Left Field Born: Sanford, Florida Hall of Fame: 2017 Raines was one of the greatest leadoff hitters and base stealers in baseball history. He spent the majority of his career with Montreal and became the face of the Expos during the 1980s. He was… Continue reading Washington Nationals: The Complete History of the Expos and Nationals
WAY TOO EARLY PROJECTION OF TEAMS IN 2026 MARCH MADNESS
Below is MY perceived 2026 NCAA Men’s March Madness 68-team bracket summary along with why these contenders are projected where they are and who the last four in might be. With clear sections and some bracket context based on multiple bracketology sources and current standings. 🏀 2026 NCAA March Madness – Perceived Bracket & Summary Top Seeds (Projected No. 1s) No. 1 Seeds: Duke, Michigan, Arizona, UConn These are the teams currently leading polls and bracket projections: Duke has taken over the AP No. 1 spot after a signature win over Michigan, Michigan and Arizona remain elite in NET and poll rankings, and UConn is dominating the Big East. 🏆 Projected Bracket — Top Regions (This is a field combining multiple bracketology projections through February) No. 1 Seeds Duke – ACC powerhouse with top metrics and high Quad-1 win totals. AP News Michigan – Elite resume, strong analytics profile across KenPom & NET. Arizona – Undefeated and dominant in Big 12 play. UConn – Big East leader and consistent NET top10 team. �table 2–4 Seeds (Consensus among projections): Purdue – Listed as a 2-seed and inside the top 10 NET as well. Illinois, Houston, Iowa State, Gonzaga – All regularly projected as 2–3 seeds due to strong resumes and Quad-1 victories. Texas Tech, North Carolina, Florida – Frequently slotted in the 4–5 range. 🔥 Bubble & At-Large Favorites These teams are frequently projected in the middle seed range (6–10) and are viewed as strong bubble contenders: Wisconsin – Now considered a lock with a solid Quad-1 profile. Bucky’s 5th Quarter NC State, Villanova, Utah State – Often seen as swing seeds (7–9). Tennessee, Alabama, Iowa, Louisville – Held inside projected field in most bracketology lists. 📉 Perceived Bubble & Tiering Likely In (just inside): NC State, UCLA, Auburn, Missouri, USC, SMU � Traditional Bubble (needs wins to secure): Butler, Creighton, Seton Hall, UCF, San Diego State � 🏟️ Last Four In (Play-In Candidates) According to recent projections such as Sporting News’ field of 68 and other bracketology builds: 📌 Projected Last Four In Texas Ohio State Texas A&M New Mexico These teams typically show up just inside the 68-team range but with resume gaps that could easily drop them on Selection Sunday. ❌ First Four Out (Near-Misses) Teams often crack the bracket: Just outside the field, meaning they’d need late resume boosts to USC Santa Clara Virginia Tech Missouri These programs hover near the cut line due to inconsistent Quad-1 wins or fewer signature victories. 🧠 Why These Projections Make Sense 📊 Standings & Metrics The teams near the top of the NET and AP polls (Duke, Michigan, Arizona, UConn) also have strong strength of schedule and Quad-1 win totals — key components the Selection Committee values. NCAA.com+ 📍 Conference Strength Big Ten, ACC, Big 12, and SEC teams are well-represented due to conference depth and quality wins. The Big Ten alone has numerous projected bids. Bucky’s 5th Quarter 📉 Strong Mid-Majors Gonzaga and Utah State often appear in the field due to excellent records, strong conference performance, and Quad-1/Quad-2 victories. The Slipper Still Fits Views: 3
2025 SEMI FINAL GAME DUKE Vs HOUSTON AS I SEE IT
Clash of Titans: Duke vs. Houston – A 2025 NCAA SEMI- FINAL Showdown for the Ages By Artie Fichal On April 5th, 2025, under the bright lights of State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, the college basketball world witnessed an unforgettable battle between two powerhouse programs: the perennial blue-bloods, Duke Blue Devils, and the defensive juggernauts, Houston Cougars. A game filled with shifting momentum, individual heroics, and tactical brilliance, this national championship became an instant classic. Let’s relive every heart-pounding moment from tip-off to final buzzer. Pregame Hype and Background Coming into the game, both teams had cut through their brackets with authority. Duke, led by sophomore phenom Jalen Blake Jr. and coached by Jon Scheyer in his third full season, had taken down Kansas and Tennessee in a ruthless path to the Final Four. Their mixture of five-star talent and deep bench rotation had them clicking at the right time. Houston, on the other hand, came in with a chip on their shoulder. With Coach Kelvin Sampson still at the helm, the Cougars played suffocating defense and had a backcourt tandem in Jamal Sharp and Terrence Walker that terrorized opponents. Their upset of #1 seed Purdue in the Elite Eight and gritty win over Arizona in the Final Four showed they were more than ready. This wasn’t just a game—it was a battle for legacy, pride, and a permanent place in college hoops history. First Half: A Blitz from Both Sides Opening Tip (20:00–18:00) The game began with Duke winning the tip, and within 20 seconds, Blake Jr. nailed a pull-up three from the top of the key—setting the tone early. But Houston answered just as quickly, with Walker slicing through Duke’s defense for a tough and-one layup. Score: 3–3 Early Pace and Turnovers (18:00–14:00) Both teams came out with energy, but Houston’s pressure defense started causing problems. Duke committed four turnovers in the opening six minutes, two from errant passes trying to break Houston’s trap. Yet, Houston struggled to capitalize offensively, missing three open corner threes. Their only consistent scorer early was Walker, who had 9 of Houston’s first 13 points. Meanwhile, Duke’s Caleb Foster, known more for his defense, came up huge with a corner three and a slick assist to Mark Mitchell on a fast break dunk. Score: Duke 15 – Houston 13 Mid-Half Run: Duke Finds Rhythm (14:00–8:00) With Houston struggling to find consistent offense outside of Walker, Duke took advantage. Blake Jr. and freshman big man TJ Jefferson executed a perfect pick-and-pop, resulting in a three. Next possession, Jefferson grabbed an offensive board and slammed it back with authority. Then, came the highlight: an alley-oop from Blake Jr. to Mitchell that had the crowd erupting. Duke goes on a 9–2 run. Score: Duke 26 – Houston 17 Houston Fights Back (8:00–4:00) Coach Sampson made a key switch, bringing in senior forward Quincy Davis, who provided instant energy—drawing a charge on one end and hitting a midrange jumper on the other. Their full-court press started to wear Duke down again. Two steals led to back-to-back dunks from Sharp, and suddenly the Cougars were back in it. Score: Duke 30 – Houston 27 Closing Minutes Before Halftime (4:00–00:00) The final four minutes before halftime were pure chaos. Both teams pushed the tempo. Jefferson blocked a Sharp layup, which turned into a fast break dunk for Duke. But on the next possession, Houston responded with a banked-in three from Walker at the shot clock buzzer. Then, with just 11 seconds before the half, Blake Jr. crossed over Sharp, stepped back, and hit a DEEP three from NBA range. The building shook. Halftime Score: Duke 42 – Houston 38 Halftime Analysis At the break, analysts were buzzing about Blake Jr.’s 15-point first half and Houston’s tenacious defense. Despite trailing, the Cougars had forced 9 Duke turnovers and held them to just 3-of-10 from beyond the arc outside of Blake’s heroics. Key First Half Stats: Jalen Blake Jr. (Duke): 15 pts, 4 ast TJ Jefferson (Duke): 8 pts, 7 reb, 2 blk Terrence Walker (Houston): 14 pts, 2 stl Turnovers: Duke 9 – Houston 4 Second Half: The Tides Turn Opening Surge (20:00–17:00) Houston came out blazing. They scored on their first three possessions—a three from Sharp, a floater from Davis, and a dunk in transition from Walker. Duke looked rattled. Houston goes on a 9–2 run to take the lead. Score: Houston 47 – Duke 44 Scheyer Responds (17:00–15:36 Coach Scheyer called a timeout and made an adjustment, bringing in veteran guard Jaylen Roach to stabilize the offense. It worked. Roach hit a floater, then drew a foul on a drive, knocking down both free throws. On defense, Jefferson had a massive block on Davis, sending the ball into the stands. Score: Duke 52 – Houston 51 Here’s the detailed breakdown of the second half, continuing from where we left off: Second Half: A Championship Battle for the Ages Houston’s Defensive Stranglehold (15:36–14:00) With Houston up 51-50, the Cougars turned up the defensive pressure. Kelvin Sampson’s squad executed their famous full-court press to perfection. Duke’s Jaylen Roach struggled to break through the aggressive double-teams, leading to two consecutive turnovers. On the other end, Jamal Sharp drove into the lane, absorbed contact, and finished a tough layup over Duke’s TJ Jefferson. Next possession, Quincy Davis tipped an offensive rebound back to Walker, who drained a deep three from the left wing. The Houston fans erupted as their squad took their largest lead of the night. Score: Houston 58 – Duke 52 Blake Jr. Responds (14:00–12:47) Duke was on the ropes, but Jalen Blake Jr. refused to back down. Coming off a high ball screen, he pulled up from the elbow and hit a midrange jumper over Sharp. On the next possession, he showcased his shiftiness, slicing through the Houston defense for a tough floater. After a defensive stop, Mark Mitchell got loose in transition for a one-handed slam. Duke had clawed back. Score: Houston 60 – Duke… Continue reading 2025 SEMI FINAL GAME DUKE Vs HOUSTON AS I SEE IT
NFL WILD CARD CONFIDENCE PICKS 01/15-16-17/2021
I really don’t like doing these play off games. It is so hard to tell if a lower rank team will play over their head. Or a higher ranked team will be over confident and play badly. Then you have the reason it is called “WILD CARD”. The officials. The most unpredictable people on the field. Of course they have many things they are trying to watch for at the same time. But I really think, sometimes, it depends on their attitude at game time, which may change at any time, even several times during a game. (BUT it does seem they always favor the HOME team. VIKINGS: Fire HC: Mike Zimmer and GM: Rick Spielman DOLPHINS: Fire HC: Brian Flores GIANTS: Fire HC: Joe Judge TEXANS: Fire HC: David Cully WASHINGTON: Is considering a name change, (vacating their prior name, which was, as i see it; a tribute to our Native American heritage. I don’t really get the RED “skin”, part. But, a tribute to the way our Native American’s way of life. The way they fought for their land and lifestyle ). Would we not be of the same mindset if we were invaded, with our land and lifestyle at stake. Most likely not. HOWEVER. (warning, political statement ahead I am neither REPUBLiCAN, nor DEMOCRAT. i have no political affilitation in any way shape or form. I do not find a place for POLITICS in the governing of our U.S.A.) Football is like a small war. The football is a “BOMB”, with one team trying to drop the “BOMB”, in the rival’s base territory, (the goal line). Part of the war is to strike fear in the hearts of the opponents. MY OPINION: What could bring more terror in the hearts of anyone??? The Washington PELOSIS.! Of course they would be left looking for another name after she is dispensed with. I do think their new name should reflect the area they are in. Washington once had a MLB team named SENATORS. Perhaps the name “CAPITOLS” ? All Times EST GAME # TV VISITOR SCORE HOME SCORE CONFIDENCE RUNNING SCORE SATURDAY 01/15//21 16:30 1 NBC Raiders (10–7) 19 @ BENGALS (10–7) 26 4 4/4 SATURDAY 01/15/21 20:15 2 CBS Patriots (10–7) 17 @ BILLS (11–6) 47 3 7/7 SUNDAY 01/16/21 13:00 3 FOX Eagles (9–8) 15 @ BUCCANEERS (13–4) 31 5 12/12 SUNDAY 01/16/21 16:30 4 CBS 49’ERS(10–7) 23 @ COWBOYS(12–6) 17 1 12/11 SUNDAY 01/16/21 20:15 5 NBC Steelers (9–7–1) 21 @ CHIEFS (12–5) 42 6 18/17 MONDAY 01/17//221 20:15 6 ESPN Cardinals (11-6) 11 @ RAMS (12–5) 34 2 20/19 GAMES / GAMES Points Possible 21 Tie Break (Total score Last Game) 49 Total 45 Points Off +4 Views: 96
2020 MARCH MADNESS PICK SHEETS , UPDATES AND OCCASIONAL OPINION
MARCH 12,2020 “Today, NCAA President Mark Emmert and the Board of Governors canceled the Division I men’s and women’s 2020 basketball tournaments, as well as all remaining winter and spring NCAA championships,” the NCAA said in a statement. “This decision is based on the evolving COVID-19 public health threat, our ability to ensure the events do not contribute to spread of the pandemic, and the impracticality of hosting such events at any time during this academic year given ongoing decisions by other entities.” This marks the first year the NCAA tournament has not been played since its inception in 1939. That year, the event featured only eight teams, and Oregon beat Ohio State to win the first championship. National Championship ]This is where you can print your “OFFICE POOL” Bracket, Check the scores, etc. Yes I will have “MY PICKS” so you can compare your picks to mine. (And Laugh or Cry)I will have A “MASTER BRACKET”, “WHAT IF YOU CHOSE THE HIGH PICKS” for each game. Yes I will have MY PICKS. .An “UPSET” will be RED on “ALL HIGH PICKS” Bracket. GREEN indicate HIGH SEED Win What is a seed? Merely a starting place. Although unlikely, IT is possible for two 16 seeds to meet in the final game. Would lets say Michigan St were to be seeded as a number 16. They would still have to win all games to be CHAMPION ! SEEDING attempts to give a more favored team an easier path to the CHAMPIONSHIP. Seeding should lead to the best 2 teams playing in the final game. However there is always that upset minded team; or the chance that the favored team has a bad game, a stand out player is sick or injured. To print BRACKET: HOVER OVER SHEET. You will see a window at bottom with an arrow pointing down (second from right). Click this button. It will open a new window with the bracket then click the printer icon or go to file, and PRINT. TO Enlarge each sheet: Hover over and select the square on the far bottom RIGHT. To return to PAGE Repeat. MASTER BRACKET 2020 NCAA tournament schedule and locations: DATES ROUND WATCH CITY, STATE HOST(S) FACILITY March 15 Selection Sunday 6 p.m. ET on CBS N/A CBS will broadcast the Selection Show at 6 p.m. ET N/A March 17-18 First Four March Madness Live Dayton, OH University of Dayton UD Arena March 19/21 1st/2nd Rounds March Madness Live Albany, NY Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Times Union Center March 19/21 1st/2nd Rounds March Madness Live Spokane, WA University of Idaho Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena March 19/21 1st/2nd Rounds March Madness Live St. Louis, MO Missouri Valley Conference Enterprise Center March 19/21 1st/2nd Rounds March Madness Live Tampa, FL University of South Florida Amalie Arena March 20/22 1st/2nd Rounds March Madness Live Greensboro, NC Atlantic Coast Conference Greensboro Coliseum March 20/22 1st/2nd Rounds March Madness Live Omaha, NE Creighton University CenturyLink Center Omaha March 20/22 1st/2nd Rounds March Madness Live Sacramento, CA Sacramento State University Golden 1 Center March 20/22 1st/2nd Rounds March Madness Live Cleveland, OH Mid-American Conference/Cleveland State Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse March 26/28 Midwest Regional March Madness Live Indianapolis, IN Horizon League/IUPUI Lucas Oil Stadium March 26/28 West Regional March Madness Live Los Angeles, CA Pepperdine University STAPLES Center March 27/29 South Regional March Madness Live Houston, TX University of Houston Toyota Center March 27/29 East Regional March Madness Live New York, NY St. John’s University/Big East Conference Madison Square Garden April 4/6 Final Four and title game TBS/ March Madness Live Atlanta, GA Georgia Institute of Technology MASTER BRACKET [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/2020-MARCHMADNESS-MASTER.pdf” title=”2020 MARCHMADNESS MASTER”] ALL HIGH PICKS MY PICKS Views: 118
NCAA March Madness 2016
What a thrilling ending to the 2016 edition of MARCH MADNESS. North Carolina probably wishing the could have waited a couple of seconds for their final shot. I didn’t do so well. I DID however pick a number two seed to win (Michigan State); BUT it was a number two seed which won. So I have to give myself a half credit (?). It has been FUN. I plan to do this again next year. Despite my troubles with CHROME. It gave me fits in updating. I would spend sometimes an hour updating just one bracket sheet. Finally learned I had to clear my cache every time before I attempted to update anything. Be sure to check back regularly. I don’t have any idea what I will write about….. NO! wait I have some idea. Maybe some racing history. (If I can find the notes I made a couple years ago. Also…. who knows. WELCOME TO OUR 2016 MARCH MADNESS. I am not sure How many years we have been doing this. I will have to look it up. This is where you can print your “OFFICE POOL” Bracket, Check the scores, etc. I will have this “MASTER BRACKET”, “WHAT IF YOU CHOSE THE HIGH PICKS” for each game. An “UPSET BRACKET” (if the favored team wins it will be in Green, if it is an upset it will be listed in RED”. And, Yes I will have my picks so you can compare your picks to mine. (And Laugh or Cry) What is a seed? Merely a starting place. Although unlikely, IT is possible for two 16 seeds to meet in the final game. Would lets say Michigan St were to be seeded as a number 16. They would still have to win all games to be CHAMPION ! SEEDING attempts to give a more favored team an easier path to the CHAMPIONSHIP. Seeding should lead to the best 2 teams playing in the final game. However there is always that upset minded team; or the chance that the favored team has a bad game, a stand out player is sick or injured. I am reminded of one year in our STATE High School WRESTLING Tournament. The Athletic Assn. decided to go with a draw, rather than seeding. The Result? Two wrestlers with one defeat each faced each other in the first match. Loser of a first round match goes home. It was a 3 OT match. One of these wrestlers went home, while wrestlers with more losses during the season advanced. The winner of this match had no competition left. Easy wins. He won the CHAMPIONSHIP that first match. Not much excitement. Reportedly there is a TEENAGE GIRL in Indiana who has only missed 3 games in this years bracket. She picked Texas over Northern Iowa. California over Hawaii. Final game she had Syracuse over North Carolina. Her Champion pick is……VILLANOVA. She says she does not follow Basketball regularly and has only attended a game or two at her high school. Maybe this is proof the rest of us over think some things To print BRACKET: Click on PRINT PDF button at top and select page with the bracket you want to print. ( If you do not see the “PRINT PDF” button. Please go to the The Title “NCAA March Madness 2016” and click to advance to the full post). MASTER BRACKET [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/2016-march-madness-MASTER-bracket.pdf”] ALL HIGH PICKS [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/2016-march-madness-ALL-HIGH-PICKS-bracket.pdf”] UPSETS [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/2016-march-madness-UPSETS-bracket.pdf”] MY PICKS [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/2016-march-madness-MY-PICKS-bracket.pdf”] Views: 109
NCAA 2015 MARCH MADNESS
NCAA MARCH MADNESS TOURNAMENT. Right now it appears that Kentucky will receive the overall number one seed. Which guarantees them the easiest path to the final four. Here is where I make many of you mad. Might just as well get it out of the way right now. After careful consideration I predict KENTUCKY will be the first NUMBER ONE seed out. Kentucky is a good team and appears as of now they will go undefeated in regular season. But if you look at their schedule…..WHO have they played. A few teams that may be in the Tournament. But looking at their overall schedule, it has been pretty much of a soft schedule. In other years it could have been a tough schedule. But this year, well it was a disappointment. All teams have these years….maybe. But it may work out for them. While they have pretty much coasting, and other teams have been going toe to toe. They may be the most rested team entering the Tournament. Is it possible for a team with a losing record be in the BIG DANCE? Just ask MEAC Tournament Champion Hampton Pirates. With a 16-17 record. The answer is yes. Can they wear the Glass Slipper? What is a seed? Merely a starting place. Although unlikely, IT is possible for two 16 seeds to meet in the final game. Would lets say Kentucky were to be seeded as a number 16. They would still have to win all games to be CHAMPION ! OKAY. so I was wrong Villanova was first number 1 out. So That makes Kentucky 2nd Number 1 seed out. I called it right the second time!! Kentucky was the second number 1 out. They did play well. But their weak regular season schedule did not prepare them for the stronger teams. It took a last second desperation shot to overcome Notre Dame. But Wisconsin’s tough season made them ready. The behavior of the Kentucky “FANS” back in Kentucky I am sure did not reflect the feelings of the Wildcat Coaches and Players. However their acts do reflect back to them, the University, and The STATE. I still do not understand this type of childish behavior. It does not change the outcome of the game. Maybe “TOO Much ALCOHOL” is an excuse. But that would be all it was. NOT A REASON! Kentucky did make it a lot farther than I expected. Hats off to Kentucky Team for not quitting. Maybe next year (for a change) they will return with experienced players, and not have to rely on Freshmen. Here is to next year Kentucky. Season is over. Congratulations to DUKE. It is hard to say one bad call changes the outcome of a game. However a couple of bad calls and NO CALLS. Can alter a game. In what I saw was DUKE get more than their share the last 3 minutes of the game. I saw them commit charges that were mis -called BLOCKS. I saw Duke throw up there forearms to clear space. I really think the REFS let the game get out of control. Of course You can make the excuse that they were letting the teams play. HOWEVER, the Most Questionable Non Call was with about 2 minutes +/-. It was plenty obvious the Ball went out last touched by DUKE’s Winslow I think. I am not really good with names. But no one can say for sure if that really made a big difference, DOWN by 5. It would have given the BADGERS a chance to score and cut the lead by 2 or 3, (if they scored). This could have changed the momentum, or not. Who can say? But it is over no going back. I WANT TO POINT OUT THAT UNLIKE KENTUCKY, I SAW NO BEHAVIOR ON THE PART OF EITHER TEAMS FANS. (hope I’m not speaking too soon). But Hats off to them for showing maturity. Well THAT IS HOW I SEE IT. Check back for other articles throughout the year. Maybe some Public Service Announcements, or who knows what may strike my fancy. Maybe a few sports articles. but I Just have not been able to get into baseball since the strike which brought about the PED thing when they allowed Mark McGuire to hit those home runs to generate interest in the game. Just like the NBA let MJ get by with making his own rules to create interest in their arena. I can’t really call them sports any more. But will be back with our usual Football coverage. ACTUAL / RESULTS https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2015-MM-Brackett-Actual.pdf ALL-High-Picks. https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2015-MM-Bracket-ALL-High-Picks1.pdf UPSETS https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2015-MM-Brackett-Upsets1.pdf MY PICKS https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2015-MM-Brackett-My-Picks.pdf Views: 120
SUPER BOWL XLIX FEB. 01, 2015
UPDATE: NFL has found 11 of the 12 balls used Sunday against the Colts, were indeed under inflated. I guess the Patriots were afraid of the Colts beating them. Not that they had to as it turned out. What punishment would be appropriate? We know the answer. FORFEIT TO THE COLTS. But they won’t go that far. Any thing less will be merely a slap on the wrist. After all the MARKETING MONIES, and PUBLICITY for advancing to the Super Bowl will way out weigh any other punishment. Suspension of William Stephen “Bill” Belichick. No problem. Given the teams history, they will most likely find a way for him to watch and get plays to the other coaches. Speaking of the other coaches, who have been with Belichick long enough to know how he would call the game any way. Maybe suspending QB Tom Brady, TE Rob Gronkowski, Place Kicker Stephen Gostkowski, Punter Ryan Allen, and of course RB LaGarrette Blount. But suspending players would not really be fair to those players or the rest of the team. What ever punishment handed should have a HUGE impact on the Patriots bottom line. HOW ABOUT Forfeiture of all income springing from their advancement to and including Their SUPER BOWL appearance. (excluding the players pay. Of Course). Plus any sanctions NFL chooses to place on Future Draft Picks, etc.etc. We all know MONEY is what PROFESSIONAL SPORTS IS ALL ABOUT! We have now reached the BIGGEST game of the season….. “SUPER BOWL” !!!!!. Two great teams, Two great Quarter Backs, with a great supporting cast. Yes the QB’s usually take the praise when his team wins. But he is also called upon to bear the burden when his team gets beat. Just like the Pitcher on a Baseball team. BUT, in FOOTBALL. There are many teams. Offense, Defense, Special Teams, Back up Player, Practice Teams, Coaching Team, and lets not forget that all important team……the 12 th man team. Everyone of these teams are just as important as the other. The OFFENSE, plays its game to MOVE the ball down field, and SCORE points. The DEFENSE, plays its game to STOP the movement down the field, and if the opportunity arises, STEAL the ball away. (Just like in Basketball). Then in semi-rare occasions SCORE points. Kind of makes it seem like the DEFENSE does most of the work and gets a passing note of praise, for a win. The SPECIAL TEAMS. Are a combination of OFFENSE and DEFENSE. They are the SPECIALISTS, as the name implies. They can return kickoffs, or receive punts, or play for the onside kick. They include the KICKERS, SETTERS, RETURNERS, and anything else they may be asked to do. The PRACTICE TEAM, is that unknown group, which plays one of the most important roles on the team. They don’t make the big money, the game time players make. (Perhaps $100,000.00 a a year). What many people don’t realize is the Practice Team must mimic every opponent their team may face in a season. After all, how would the Patriots practice against the Seahawks, and vice-versa. If you think that is easy, try being a different team every week. The BACK UP Team. The Subs, the Bench warmers. The men who sit on the sidelines hoping to someday get into a real game. They must be ready at any moment to enter the game and play up to the same standards as the starters. While on the sidelines they must be cheerleaders, spirit lifters, if you will. It can’t be easy waiting to get in a game, (most likely; even if un-concioiusly hoping for something to happen to the starter to afford them their chance), to be that support group. The Coaching Team. Held together by the HEAD COACH. Each coach has his speciality. They are the ones who decides the plays, trains the players, and inspires them to succeed. Of course if you ask any one of them HIS job is the most important coaching position on the team. But the Head coach is the one who acts as referee, and maintains the peace among this group. I’m sure the Offensive Co-ordinator, makes most of the offensive play calls, just as the Defensive Co-Ordinator, makes the decisions on defensive plays. Etc.Etc. on down the line. But the Head Coach is the ultimate decision maker. NOW. We come to that all important 12 th MAN TEAM. They are sometimes called the “Boosters”, because that is what they do. They give the team that extra BOOST. Cheering them on to work harder, Applauding them when they make good plays. Supporting the team by buying the game tickets, concessions, and the various souvenirs, and Team apparel. They make noise to drown out the opposing teams signals, and hush up so their team can be heard and on the same wavelength. On one hand you have the seasoned veteran, TOM BRADY. On the other hand you have that “undersized” QB, RUSSEL WILSON, who is in his THRD year. BUT…. by the way already has one Super Bowl Championship under his belt. HUH? Can that be right. The QB most teams thought was to short to play that position effectively? YEP. That be him. (Not to brag or anything. But if you check my post of Jan. 13, 2012. Colts 1st Round Draft Pick Is…. I had Wilson as a TOP 3 Pick: in my eyes the most capable of the three). Can he be the QB with 2 Super Bowl Championships in a career of 3 years. This should be the BEST Super Bowl in MANY years. But there is always that unknown phantom that can come in and just make the game a blow out. As my Dad, always said. “HOPE FOR THE BEST, AND EXPECT THE WORSE”. As of this writing the odds makers in Las Vegas, have made no move as to odds and who they think will win. Right now it is just… Continue reading SUPER BOWL XLIX FEB. 01, 2015
