Who are you gonna draft?

Yep, it’s that time of year. You get that email or phone call. You buy that magazine and start researching online. Then the questions start racing through your mind. Where do I pick? Do I take a QB first or a RB? Let’s all say it together, FANTASY FOOTBALL!!!! It has become a five month obsession of checking injury updates, bye weeks and subscribing to the NFL Sunday Ticket. I imagine the NFL loves fantasy football. Why? Week one features an AFC matchup between the Chiefs and Bills. In the early 1990’s, that was a marquee matchup. In 2011, not so much. However, it is very possible that someone could have Jamaal Charles as their RB. That same person could also have Stevie Johnson as their WR (just don’t do him wrong God). Because of fantasy football, everyone wins. The NFL wins because the ratings are up. The fantasy owner wins because he gets to watch two of his fantasy football players. Where does he watch this game? If he watches at home, NFL Sunday Ticket gets another customer. If he watches at the local bar, that bar gets a patron for a three or six hour stretch. Fantasy football has become a phenomenon. It’s no longer the twenty-something college male participating. It’s the retired sixty-year-old male. It’s the soccer mom talking trash to her husband. It’s the sorority sister participating in a league against nine other guys. How many of you out there see a performance by Peyton Manning and say, “That’s a big fantasy week,” completely forgetting whether or not he won the game? We have had big fantasy weeks and big fantasy years. And who are the top performances all time? Well I’m glad you asked because below is a list of the greatest fantasy football team of all time. Well at least of players in the past 30 years, by position.

QB - Tom Brady, 2007 – 398 completions, 4,806 yards. 50 TDs, 8 INTs

QB – Dan Marino, 1984 - 362 completions, 5084 yards. 48 TDs, 17 INTs

RB – LaDanian Tomlinson, 2006 – 1815 rushing yards, 28 rush TDs. 56 rec, 508 rec yds, 3 rec TD

RB – Marshall Faulk, 2000 – 1358 rushing yards, 18 rush TDs. 81 rec, 830 rec yds, 8 rec TDs

WR – Randy Moss, 2003 – 111 rec, 1632 yards, 17 TDs

WR – Jerry Rice, 1995 – 122 rec, 1848 yards, 15 TDs

TE – Tony Gonzalez, 2004 – 102 rec, 1258 yards, 7 TDs

TE – Antonio Gates, 2005 – 89 rec, 1101 yards, 10 TDs

W/R - Priest Holmes, 2003 - 1420 yards, 27 rush TDs. 74 rec 690 rec yards

W/R - Marvin Harrison, 2001 - 109 rec, 1524 yards, 15 TDs

K – Jeff Wilkins, 2003 – 39 FGs, 46 PATs

K – Mike Vanderjagt, 2003 – 37 FGs, 46 PATs

DEF – Bears, 1985 – 198 points allowed, 54 forced TOs, 2 special team TDs, 4 DEF TDs

DEF – Ravens, 2000 – 165 points allowed, 49 forced TOs, 2 special team TDs, 1 DEF TDs

Give them penalties or give them death?

You always hear people say something like, “I love college football more than pro football. Those kids are playing strictly for the love of it.” You wonder if those people are now retracting their statements. Over time, especially over the past decade, we have seen some scandals in division one college football, both reported and found, that make you shake your head. Am I the only one who just cringes when another program is found with violations? It seems like it’s a monthly occurrence. Programs with great history and tradition are getting busted; programs with less success and power are also getting busted. “There’s a reason the student comes first in student-athlete.” This used to be a true statement. Let me forever dispel that myth. College football is about money, fame and power. Sounds like a tag line for a Scarface sequel, but it is true, or at least appears true after so many programs have come under fire. Let’s just list a few in the past decade:

Florida State University, or should I say "Free Shoes University": That nickname stuck when agents were found to have bought more than $6,000 worth of shoes for Seminoles players. Not too serious, I admit. There were much higher stakes in 2009, when Bobby Bowden had to vacate 12 victories because of an academic cheating scandal that included athletes from several FSU teams.

Gary Barnett’s X-rated recruiting at Colorado: Barnett was forced to resign in 2005 after it was learned his recruiting tactics included providing sex, drugs and alcohol to recruits. His bitter end was foreshadowed by a suspension in 2004 for making derogatory comments after kicker Katie Hnida had said she had been allegedly raped by a Buffalo player.

Southern Cal and Reggie Bush: The Trojan running back is the only player to give back a Heisman Trophy. USC's transgressions in 2005 weren't far removed from another major infraction in 2001, when tutors were caught writing papers for football players.

Tattoo blues at Ohio State: Jim Tressel wrecked his career when he failed to disclose information about players trading memorabilia for tattoos last season. All of that body ink meant it was time to pen a resignation letter. Now Terrelle Pryor may have that negative stigma no matter what he does in the NFL.

And the most recent one, which may be the biggest of all: Former booster, now imprisoned for his involvement in the Ponzi scheme, Nevin Shapiro’s allegations of major violations surrounding the University of Miami’s football program from 2002-2010.

Some of the details:

Let’s start with the most famous player listed above, Reggie Bush. He and the Trojans were found guilty; Bush and his family for taking money from a sports agent for housing and travel, and USC for not having any sort of compliance at all. The punishment: 4 years probation, 2 year bowl ban, 30 scholarships lost. Fair? Maybe, or maybe not. It’s fair that USC had to vacate wins and a national title with Bush having to give back his 2005 Heisman. It’s not fair that today’s USC football team had to pay for something that happened while the players might have been in junior high school. The NCAA was trying to prove a point, which I believe they did.

Next, “THE” Ohio State University. Terrelle Pryor and four others admitted to selling memorabilia for extra money and Jim Tressel lied about his knowledge of these violations. Pryor is now off to the NFL a year before expected and Tressel lost his job.

The “U.” While we are still at the beginning of this investigation, we do know that nine former players and one former coach have corroborated the story told by Nevin Shapiro. If that is the case, seventy something players involved in prostitution and “bounty” money for big game hits.

So who’s to blame? The athletic programs are for sure for their failure to have credible and qualified compliance departments. The coaches are also to blame even though it may be very difficult to monitor a hundred players involved on a football team. However, USC’s running back coach Todd McNair had knowledge of what Reggie Bush was doing. We all know that Coach Tressel had knowledge of his Buckeyes. So coaches are also at fault. Speaking of the Buckeyes, how about the NCAA? They found out about the five Buckeye players and their violations but chose to let the players play in 2011 Sugar Bowl vs. Arkansas. Why did the NCAA choose to send a message to USC but not to Ohio State? They had a chance to set the record straight and they let the players and yes, the money, dictate who rules.

I find myself saying, “You would never see this school get busted,” and, “They run a clean program.” But, much like MLB players who may or may not have partaken in steroid use, you never know who’s going to get named next. Can we trust any college program today? Is it true that no program can be successful and still be clean? I am not saying that programs like Miami should definitely be given the death penalty (suspended football program indefinitely). What I am saying, what I am pleading, is that the NCAA and the institutions tighten everything extensively. Instead of spending that money for a 9^th uniform (coughing Oregon’s name sarcastically), instead of spending that money on another state of the art gym and weightlifting room, instead of using funds for video equipment, let’s get back to basics. Let’s put the right people in place to run a program. As a UCLA Bruin fan, I will be the first to acknowledge that the best move USC has made recently is firing former athletic director Mike Garrett and hiring Pat Haden. A big move should be made by you too, NCAA. Create a position to oversee each division one football conference to instill and maintain the integrity of college football. Keep it college football; prevent it from becoming a minor league to the NFL. We all agree that Auburn’s national championship has somewhat of a black eye to it. Please don’t let every champion forward have that same black eye.

Little League, Big Dreams

It’s mid-August and baseball is in its dog days. Pro and college football are still a few weeks from the regular season. Hockey and basketball are nowhere to be found. Most sports fans are a little bored this time of year. Not me, I love this time of year. I anticipate it and look forward to it. In fact, when I watch ESPN and see the tease for it, I hum along with the little jingle. And as soon as I see when the first game is, the first thing I do is the same thing I have been doing for about 15 years straight. I call my grandma and tell her, “Nanny, the Little League World Series starts this week.” Her reaction, “Oh good mijo, I’ll have to tell Poppy so we can start watching.” 

As a kid growing up playing baseball, I had always heard about the Little League World Series and used to watch the championship game every year. It was always a Sunday afternoon in August. It always seemed like a big deal because it was opened with ABC’s Wide World of Sports. You know the opening, the downhill skier with the ridiculous crash while Jim McKay uttered “the agony of defeat.” Well that was preceded by the Kirkland, Washington little league team celebrating their Little League World Series win while McKay says, “the thrill of victory.” Who did Kirkland, WA beat? Taiwan. As a kid, just about every year it seemed that the little league team from Taiwan represented the world and would dominate. Naturally it was a huge upset when Washington or Trumbull, CT topped Taiwan, but it never happened often. However, sometime in the early 90’s, Taiwan faded and other teams had their day in the sun.

In many ways the Little League World Series has changed and evolved in the past 20 years. Early on, television only showed the championship game. Then, around 15 years ago, we got to see the entire tournament. This happened around the time the playing field expanded from 8 teams (four from the US and four from the world) to now 16 teams (8 and 8). Along with this expansion came a need to make sure the playing field was even, and in 2002, they began cracking down on the birth certificates requirement, making it harder to fabricate age and making it harder for kids who are too old, i.e. Danny Almonte, to play. About that same time, they began showing the regional finals or play-in game to get to Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Today, we get to see even more of the regional games. It is apparent that the tournament is big and will continue getting bigger. Luckily, Howard J Lamade Stadium now has a partner, Volunteer Stadium, because the tournament keeps growing.

Some may wonder or ask, “Why would you want to watch little kids play baseball?” One of the main reasons is the fact that you have these 12 and 13 year old kids who have remarkable poise with all the world watching. They seem to have the perfect balance of that serious look during the pressure situations while smiling when making a play that makes Sportscenter. I would venture to guess that multiple MLB locker rooms watch these games before their own. In addition to that excitement, it is a well run organization. All of the umpires and workers are volunteers. The players get to stay in a dorm that is shared by every team, and the parents aren’t allowed in. The ballpark and rules of the game also make it fun to watch. As far as size of the field is concerned, the dimensions figure out to about 2/3 the size of Major League Baseball stadiums. For the rules, it is governed that every player has to play. They have also added the safety factor to it. Before the pitch count rule was put into place, a pitcher could throw up to 12 innings per week, which meant an unlimited amount of pitches could be thrown in those innings. Now, there are limitations as to how many pitches a kid can throw, helping to protect their young arms. But the biggest reason I watch? It is a chance to watch extraordinarily talented kids have an experience of a lifetime, in a battle for all the excitement and glory.

To show what I mean by excitement, here is a highlights reel from the 2009 LLWS:

Twice in the last five years the championship game was won in the last inning or extra innings with a homerun, a dream all young baseball players have had. Whether it was Sean Burroughs leading the Long Beach team to back-to-back titles, the dominant teams like the kids from Hawaii or Chula Vista, CA, or the perennials like Warner Robbins, GA, the Little League World Series is here to stay. Did I mention it’s free?

Surfer Girl

Whenever some hear about a surfer named Hamilton, the first knee-jerk reaction is to say Laird Hamilton. He has been a professional surfer since the 1980s. However, there is a new surfer named Hamilton, Bethany Hamilton (no relation). Bethany has been a professional surfer for six years. In 2005, Hamilton took 1st place in the National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) National Championships. In 2008, she began competing full-time on the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) World Qualifying Series (WQS). In her first competition against many of the world's best women surfers, she finished 2^nd. So what makes Bethany stand out? Let’s go back to Halloween morning in 2003. Bethany went surfing with her friend Alana, Alana’s brother and Alana’s father. While waiting for a wave, a 14-foot tiger shark attacked her. Her friend’s father was able to help her to shore and rush her to the hospital, where she was saved after losing 60% of her blood and her left arm. Just one month later, Bethany was back in the water, with help from her father, Tom, learning to surf with one arm. Shortly thereafter, she was competing again. In July 2004, Bethany Hamilton was awarded the ESPY for Best Comeback Athlete. She has also given her time to help others less fortunate. That same year, Hamilton went with her church group to Thailand to take supplies after the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami. While there, she took the time to get the youth of Thailand back into the feared ocean water, teaching the children to surf and bringing fun back into their lives. She was also featured in ESPN’s series, My Wish, where she surfed with Kendall Curnick, an 8-year-old girl that was diagnosed with leukemia.

It is people like Bethany Hamilton and situations like hers and Kendall Curnick’s that really makes you appreciate human will and what is possible if you believe. When you hear about someone like Bethany Hamilton, Anthony Robles or Jim Abbott, you have to marvel what someone can accomplish despite what people may see as limitations. Anthony Robles is an Arizona State graduate who won an NCAA Championship while wrestling with one leg and finishing his senior season with a perfect 36-0. Jim Abbott, a Major League Baseball pitcher who was born with one hand, did not allow this to limit him. He worked hard, won the Golden Spikes award as College Baseball’s best player and even went on to throw a no-hitter while pitching for the Yankees. These athletes, along with Bethany, are an inspiration.

Bethany’s story is one that shows that hard work and desire can help you overcome nearly any situation.  We need to remember her story when we, as everyday people, are having a rough day or week. She is an inspiration to people of all ages. She isn’t the next Laird Hamilton; she’s the first Bethany Hamilton.

I'm Going to Disneyworld

Host: Thanks DeSean. We have Michael Vick up next.

Host: At the podium now is Michael Vick, you may direct your questions to him.

Bob Ryan, Boston Globe: Michael, can you talk about the feelings you have knowing your return to the NFL has been a success?

Vick: It’s still hard to put into words, hasn’t really sunk in yet. I knew even from last year’s playoff loss to Green Bay we had a good thing going, had some good pieces but just came up a little short. Management did a great job of going out and making the adjustments to make our team a winner.

Bill Plascke, L.A. Times: Michael, congratulations being named Super Bowl MVP. What do you think were the specific differences between last year’s team and this year’s?

Vick: One, I think that having our core group of guys together for a few years now, that has a lot to do with it. Most of our guys are young, perhaps not even in their prime, so with each passing game and season, we have grown. As I mentioned before, the players we acquired, and I can't say enough about our defense. Guys like Nnamdi (Asomugha), DRC (Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie) Cullen (Jenkins) and Jason (Babin). Right away in camp they showed they were here for the right reasons, ready to do whatever it takes to win. Then of course the guys who have been here a few years, specifically Trent (Cole) and Asante (Samuel), they were our leaders, solid veterans who stepped up week in and week out. They have been tremendous.

Woody Page, Denver Post: Michael, you just played a great game against a very solid Pittsburgh (Steelers) defense, talk about the game plan.

Vick: Coach (Andy) Reid and Coach (Marty) Mornhinweg had a great plan in place to minimize what the Steelers do best. We watched film and saw first-hand just how talented and great this team and organization is. We saw in the films we might be able to be successful with a lot of three step drops and short passes to combat their blitz. We thought anything down field might give their pass rush extra time to pressure myself. Plus, trying to find out where Troy (Polamalu) is at all times, again the short passes kept him at bay and maybe a step late.

Jay Mariotti, Chicago Tribune: Michael, you mentioned Coach Reid. Talk about a little about what he has meant with your road back and talk about others who have been instrumental along the way.

Vick: Coach Reid has meant everything. From giving me a chance, to working with my mechanics and footwork, he has taught me to stay in the pocket more and read defenses better. I think he sometimes doesn’t get the credit he deserves. Also, Coach (Tony) Dungy has been a great role model and mentor. He showed me how to look at situations and prevent myself from getting into situations that may not be the best. I owe him so much. Mr. (Jeffrey) Lurie, I want to thank him and his staff for taking a chance on me. I have tried my best to make sure he didn’t regret it. I don’t know how many teams entertained the thought of me on their respective rosters, but Mr. Lurie gave me a shot and for that I am so thankful

Rachel Nichols, ESPN: Michael, you mentioned the guys on defense making an impact. Can you specify some of the guys on the offensive side of the ball who helped make tonight’s win and this season a magical one?

Vick: Well, you all have seen what DeSean (Jackson) can do. He is an amazing talent. And it didn’t take him much time to get in game shape. Not too many people know this but he sought out Jerry Rice before his rookie season and began working out with him. That should tell you how much he wants to win and be the best he can be. LeSean (McCoy) and Jeremy (Maclin) are still so young, yet they have already made huge strides in this offense and are only going to get better. They make my job so much easier. And of course the guys up front, not needing to tuck and run as much this season, they gave me the protection I needed to get rid of the ball. The line has the continuity as a unit that you need and you can see over the past few years, they have improved day in and day out. Even when Vince (Young) had to step in for a couple weeks earlier this year while I was recovering from the ankle injury, Vince did a great job and the line didn’t miss a beat. I love playing behind them.

Dan LeBatard, Miami Herald: Michael, was their ever a time when you thought the road back was too tough, perhaps thinking no teams would reach out or that you may be a back up for the rest of your career?

Vick: There were good days and not so good days to say the least. I knew I still had the talent to play in the league, knew that I could still play the position. Donovan (McNabb) was the first from the Eagles to lobby to bring me into camp a few years ago. I thought I might be a back-up long term and I was ok with it. He and I have spoken often, he sent me a text last night saying to enjoy the moment and make sure you leave it all out there tonight. He said you may only get one crack at the Super Bowl, so make it worthwhile.

Pam Oliver, Fox Sports: Michael, when you were making your comeback, you came across PETA and other organizations who wanted you to never be allowed out of prison, let alone back in to the NFL. What have you done or are you doing currently that helps raise awareness of dog fighting and cruelty towards animals?

Vick: Well, I’ve helped enact the Animal Fighting Spectator Prohibition Act, which establishes federal misdemeanor penalties against convicted spectators of illegal animal fighting and make it a felony for adults to bring children to fights. I’ve spoke at engagements and schools around the country to tell them about the road I was on and how I thought I was just doing what many other people were doing. I forgot that I am a role model. Regardless of what I think, my playing professional football gives me that status and that is one of the things I realize more these days. Going to D.C., speaking with Congress, I’m just trying to do things better so I can make a difference on and off the field. I don’t think I could have said that a few years ago

Host: Last question please

Rick Reilly, ESPN: Michael, is there anything you want to say to the people out there and give them your little story of how you got to this point?

Vick: Since my days at Virginia Tech, especially when we lost to a great (Florida State) Seminole team in the (BCS) title game, I really haven’t forgotten that feeling, walking off the field knowing we were second best. I knew I could play at the next level but I really didn’t know what came with being an NFL quarterback. I truly admire how Peyton Manning and Tom Brady and Drew Brees have conducted themselves. Their resumes stand on their own. I wasn’t ready for it all. Even when the teams in Atlanta would make playoff runs, looking back I wasn’t doing all I could do to prepare and help the team win and that has been documented. That’s what this Eagles organization has instilled in me. Doing the right things, preparing and game planning for each team as if it were the Super Bowl each week. I want to thank my family for sticking by me and supporting me. And lastly, I’m going to Disneyworld and the first thing I do when I get there is take a picture with Pluto.