The Suite Spot

NFL Brief- Week 4

2009-10-06T18:12:00.000-07:00

First things first. Is anyone watching the A.L. tiebreaker game right now... This is why there is "Only One October." Two teams grinding out every play, trying as hard as they can, and putting on one hell of a show. Curtis Granderson actually just helped save the Tigers shot as we speak, with a real nice diving catch. This is what we the fans watch 162 games for, why we sit through the dog days of summer, countless nights of watching Baseball Tonight and learning every nuance there is about every player in the league. We do it for October, for the chance that our team will be one of the elite 8 who qualifies for the Fall Dance. For some lonely men, this is a marriage, only they get 4 months off a year... (wait a minute) Now before I talk some pigskin, I'm hoping for the Twins to win tonight for two reasons. First, I've never minded the Twins, a gutsy blue collar team with a good skipper and young quality players. Secondly, I think they are a better match up for the Yankees, a weaker starting rotation (still working on figuring out what theirs is. My hope is this gives the Bombers a chance to get up on them in the first 6 innings and let our bullpen keep it that way... time will tell... and at this rate the game won't be over anytime soon. Go Twinkies!!

Back to the holy league, I mean there is a reason they play on Sundays. The season is 25% over already... we can talk contenders, pretenders, the close but no cigars, the oops I DIDN'T again, and the one team that continues to spend but fails to do any diligence and research. Yes I am referring to the Oakland Raiders. We have 5 unbeaten teams left: Giants, Saints, Vikings, Colts, and the Broncos. Of those, Every team except Denver is a contender, the Broncos well see last weeks article for news about them. San Diego will win that division... just watch.

9:48- The Twins just won!! The Twins just won!! What a Game!!

Anyways, there are teams that have a loss, even two who I would still say are legitimate contenders as well. The Patriots at 3-1, a Tom Brady team can never be written off this soon. The 49ers, their defense keeps them in games, and their division is as weak as Mary Kate or Ashely Olsen's bones. They are the only child TV stars who have maintained the same weight since the age of three... Maybe contestants on The Biggest Loser should stop working out so much and go on a steady diet of Cocaine and purging... I'd put money on that contestant. Any who, The Ravens are right there and we've seen why, they lost a close one to the Pats this weekend, my guess is they were out coached. It took him a few games this year, but Bellicheck has this ship sailing right on course now. It has to be tough for a coach to be this good. He loses his coordinators seemingly every year and somehow finds a way to put such quality together out of players who don't carry the big name ego or price tag. Sure he gives the most boring press conference and he shows as much emotion as a Brit shows good dental Hygiene, but he does produce year in and year out.

Don't write off the following teams- Eagles, Bears, Falcons, San Diego and Green Bay, they are quality teams that could make a run.

Every other team has as much chance at the Lombardi Trophy as Micheal Vick getting with the CEO of PETA, some things just won't happen.

On to this week's power of 5...

1. Giants- next up raiders, so they'll be 5-0 going into week 6's battle with the Saints

2. Saints- have the week off to prepare for the leagues best
3. Vikings- Farve looks best when he's having fun, 3tds on MNF= a good time
4. Colts- Peyton closing in on 1500 yds and 12tds already
5. Patriots- think I'm biased here...nope, best coach in the league has the team ready

NFL Brief- Week 3

2009-09-29T18:24:00.000-07:00

Well another week down and the Denver Broncos are still undefeated. I know, I know, one win came off of a tipped pass and was if anything a lucky break, and I know the next win came against a lowly Cleveland Browns team, and yes their 3rd win was against another pre-season cellar pick in the Oakland Raiders, but the fact of the matter remains, the Denver Broncos are one of only seven remaining undefeated teams in the league. So does that put the Broncos in the top 10? Is Josh Mcdaniels team that's only allowed 16 pts in 3 games a true power this year. My guess, Nope! They are this year's version of the girl who blossomed too soon. You know the girl who grew into her bra and britches a little before the rest. The girl who every kid adored from 6-8th grade, until realizing then that everyone else was blossoming too, and their face was actually pretty to boot. The girl who had a line to slow dance with her at the fall and spring dance for two years and hasn't been able to find a date since. If you are looking for or ever wondered what happened to said female, she's probably doing one of 3 things.
1. Cashier at the local supermarket- yes we all that one, still puts on her makeup, only now no one cares
2. 3rd shift cashier at the local gas/ convenience store- this is the girl who thought she still had it all as she went into high school, started doing drugs with all the lonely, white trash boys, and now she has ratty brown hair, yellow-teeth, and sells soft core porno mags to any soul who isn't pumping gas at 2 a.m.
3. Raising three kids- this is the girl who some potentially successful young buc still thought it was the cool thing to do to knock up the girl who everyone "used" to talk about, only not to realize that no one still does think that way anymore. They moved on to things such as "college" While this chick is living in shady acres raising three kids all 10months or less apart from each other.

That's this year's Denver Broncos ladies and gentlemen, so if you are at all happy with the current 3-0 start, be happy... but be prepared for this team to fall right off the map. It's a good thing for them they play in a very weak division, AFC West, they will probably get 1-3 more wins against the Chiefs, Raiders, and the Chiefs again. The thing is I don't see them winning another game outside of that. They will not see the left side of the Win-Loss column until maybe Dec. 6th against KC. They aren't good enough to mount even one win in the next 8. Here's their lineup. Dallas, New England, @ San Diego, @Baltimore, Pitt @ Washington, San Diego, NY Giants. Maybe they squeak one by the Redskins, but I don't see it. They've blossomed too soon, and they will be embarrassed and made fun of the rest of the way, just like we make fun of aforementioned female.

Enough Ranting... on to this week's Power of 5

1. Giants- Dominant, Decisive, Defense- played a bad team, but made Tampa Bay look like a college team
2. Ravens- Second straight game Flacco throws for over 300 yards, and they only allowed 3pts. They are for real, even Derrick Mason had a 100+yards and a TD.
3. Saints- Only behind Baltimore b/c their D isn't as good.
4. Vikings- Brett Favre making noise, and they are blessed by Purple Jesus, a holy team!
5. Colts- everyone is writing off Peyton as past his prime, had 350+yds and 4tds, not bad for someone over the hill.

That's all for this week, thanks for reading! Write some comments get involved

NFL Brief- Week 2

2009-09-23T16:15:00.000-07:00

Well week 2 has come and gone, I wouldn't say we have separation yet in the league, but there are a few teams that are definitely establishing themselves as polished teams playing in mid season from through 2 games. Sure there is ton of football left to play, and some teams that have disappointed fans early (ehh hemm Patriots) still have plenty of time to get their act together. I was fortunate enough this week or so I thought to score tickets to the Patriots vs. Jets game from Giants Stadium. Best part was I didn't have to pay for them, and they were 20 rows deep at the 50 yard line. I should have known I was over blessed with the quality of tickets that my team would let me down and play 4 truly uninspiring quarters of football. This was my first ever NFL regular season games. I know shocking, I write a weekly blog about football and follow it like a pedophile follows a child but I had never been to a regular season game. I've been to 30 college games, preseason games, 100+baseball games etc.. you get the hint, but this was a truly virgin experience. A few things:

1. The Jets play in a stadium named for another team, and to my knowledge the new stadium being built will share the same name, Giants Stadium at the Meadowlands. Yes the Giants have had more success and are a better team this year as well, but to suit up every week to play a home game in someone Else's home is truly a shame.
2. The Jets are an improved team this year, but they aren't as good as everyone is making them. Their defense is greatly improved, but I'm not sold on Mark "Dirty"Sanchez yet. Their offense is sluggish and lack that "it" player.
3. Jets fans are intense- I sported my Seymour jersey (retro now) and was heckled probably every down.
4. Jets fans are big tailgaters and boozehounds- Most of those fans didn't make it in until the end of the 1st quarter b/c their respective tailgates were too fun to leave.
5. Jets fans are annoying- Take pt 4 and then watch a game surrounded by them.
6. Jets fans are loud- If I hear the J-E-T-S , JETS JETS JETS chants one more time this week...
7. I hate the Jets more now than I did before... They are the Mets fans of New York Football, the other team, the dirty team, the blue collar team who just likes to constantly bother people, and they lack the normal to good looking Giant fan girls. Female Jet fans are Giant alright, but not in a football context, if the Jets Offensive line couldn't play due to injury, three female beasts in front of me would have sufficed to fill in. Yes they are 2-0 for the first time since 2004, but they will not crack this week's power of 5 and I'd be shocked to see them do anything meaningful with the season.

Game of the week-- Giants beating Jerry Jones and his new $1.2bn Cowboys stadium with a game winning FG. This game made game of the week just for the look on Jerry Jones face after the FG went through the uprights. A few notes about this game. I'm not an Eli fan, but I must say this is the first time he looked real good. He was poised in the pocket, threw good balls, found a few new go to targets in Manningham and Smith. If he plays like that all season, which I'm not sold on yet, the GGGG-Men will be tough to beat. They play the Saints in week 5, and I'm hoping both teams are 5-0 for that game, and we can sort the NFL out a lot better after that game. Speaking of New Orleans football, the Saints crushed the Eagles 48-22, Drew Brees has 9 TDs in 2 games and nearly 1000 yards, if only he found this system 5 years earlier in his career, we'd be mentioning his name with the Peyton Mannings and Tom Brady's of this generation. As of now he still feels like a fad, if he can get his team over the hump and into the Superbowl that stigma will quickly fade.

Power of 5

1. G-Men- they have a great O-line and D-line, Eli playing like a champion...yikes
2. Ravens- Best D in the league, see Ray Lewis' game winning tackle for details. Oh and they have a real offense now.
3. Saints- Easy Breesy for this team, great skill players, defense is the Achilles heel
4. Vikings- Purple Jesus is hard for any team to slow down. Brett Farve isn't the current headline, and its what the team needs
5. Atlanta- Matt Ryan looks good and a strong running game to complement. Real test when they play a team out of their weak division.

NFL Brief- Week 1

2009-09-16T17:46:00.000-07:00

Well well well... another season has begun. We've waited months, followed OTA's and minicamps, read blog updates live from training camp, tuned in to at least the first half of every preseason game all for one reason. No, it's not the one day of every week where you aren't supposed to do anything but flick the channels between games, and have your stat-tracker in view at all times. ITS FOOTBALL SEASON!! To me, there is no better time of year, the heat of the subway becomes bearable, girls wear their cute lil football jerseys acting like they're fans, when they really just want to become more marketable to a male fan. (Starting to sound like a discovery channel documentary?) That was a generalization gals, but the reality is only 10% of you who wear apparel care about football , and of that fraction, 2-3% of you are attractive. God bless that small population, the fall foliage of football. I guess the conclusion of this rant is, Men don't like pigs, we like pigskin.

On to the games... Not sure where to being, this week had as many story lines as mistakes Kanye West has made in the last week. Tom Brady's return, The tipped pass that helped the Broncos down the Bengals, or was it Drew Brees throwing for 6 TD's and making fantasy owners salivate and feel good for taking him 6 picks to early, or could it be your a Jets fan and Mark "Dirty" Sanchez showed he could lead a NFL team over what is supposed to be a solid Texans team. If you weren't tired of it already, maybe you put on your Brett Favre jersey and watched "Purple Jesus" Adrian Peterson still the show on his way to a victory sealed by 3 TD's. This weekend just had so much excitement

Game of the week

Pats 25 Bills 24--

Wasn't the blowout everyone expected, and no the Patriots didn't cover the spread in this one, but Tom "terrific" Brady did it again. Down 11 points with 5 minutes left to play he orchestrated 2 drives ending in touchdowns. After throwing a 18 yd strike to Big Ben Watson, the pats trailed 24-19 with two minutes to play. They opted not for the onside kick, but instead to kick it away and trust their defense. They didn't even need to. Leodis Mckelvin provided the bonehead play of the week and ran the ball out of the endzone only to fumble it and give the Patriots the ball back with 1:45 seconds, 3 timeouts and amazing field position. That's all Brady needed, with 50 seconds to play, the same play used for the first TD to Big Ben was called again, and resulted in another game winning TD. The Bills fell apart, and Brady was welcomed back with another come from behind victory. It felt like December! Two small side notes, Ben Watson was almost cut by the Pats for lack of hands in the preseason. A former first round pick proved his worth with clutch play. Secondly, Tom Brady's Monday probably looked a little like this. Wake up, kiss my wife Gisele good morning, probably do a little more than give her a kiss. Have breakfast with a kid that the best QB and best looking model have created. (The only kid I can see being more gifted with both looks and athleticism would be the offspring of Michael Phelps and Megan Fox. No No No, not Seal and Heidi Klum, though if I was their kid I would never want to stop breastfeeding....ever!) Head to the stadium, win a huge game, and then repeat your waking up process before going to bed.

What a great opening week... can't wait for our second go round this weekend.

Power of 5

1. Patriots- best team in football... right now
2. Steelers- defending champs, but running game struggling
3. Packers- Aaron Rodgers and Greg Jennings are the new Brett Favre and Sterling Sharpe
4. Saints- maybe a great offense is better than a great defense
5. Giants- pains me to say it, but a front 7, o-line and running game

Quote of the Week

2009-08-25T20:51:00.000-07:00

It sounds a little sick at first, but after you read the full article, it's a pretty cool quote.

About Shaun Hill:

“'It’s fine to me,' Vernon Davis says. 'Every time he throws a pass, it always comes right to me. I like his balls.'

So does Singletary – in more ways than one."

- Michael Silver of Yahoo! Sports

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=AiiUOZCxPKEOmZNzeeDbl2c5nYcB?slug=ms-ninerscamp082509&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

It's Been too Long, but The Suite Spot is Back...

2009-08-09T16:22:00.000-07:00

I know what your saying, and have been saying, we are members of The Suite Spot faithful, but where have you been? Well we took a small hiatus, but with football season underway and the dog days of summer nearing an end, we are back and look forward to providing you with content that will make you yearning for more, just like last year. Stay tuned later this week for NFL preview and a baseball update. I'm gonna crack open a beer and watch the Yankees finish sweeping the Red Sox... stay tuned and get amped for another year of The Suite Spot. (Sidenote-- great commercial filler tonight is the Hall of Fame Game, the first NFL preseason game. TO in his first game as a Bill vs. Kerry "Tom" Collins and the Titans)

Suite Spot Puzzler

2009-03-18T21:12:00.001-07:00

This was in my sink. It used to be some kind of food. Can you guess what?

When it's about the game

2009-03-10T19:50:00.000-07:00

I'm a 49ers fan.

This post has nothing to do with that.

Today, Alex Smith made a very uncommon decision for a professional athlete - one that wasn't driven by money. By restructuring his contract with the 49ers, Smith effectively forfeited a substantial sum of money to stay in San Francisco. With plenty of other teams still interested in the 24 year-old and willing to ante up with more green, Smith ultimately made his decision because of the fact that he "just wanted the chance to compete." It wasn't about the money. It wasn't about a hometown discount. It was about the sport.

Say what you will about his first four seasons or his future in the NFL. Say what you will about the 49ers and their upcoming QB controversy. But you've got to love to see an athlete bring his/her heart to a professional sport. It's what makes college sports engaging. It's what makes watching the Tampa Bay Rays in the World Series exciting. The teams and athletes with the desire to prove that they can compete at the highest level remind us why their sport continue to captivate.

Kudos to Alex Smith for showing some maturity and some respect for the game. And Kudos to the 49ers for sticking with a guy that hasn't worked out in the past but is ready to fight for a job.

- KLB

A Couple Random Thoughts on a Friday-- 8

2009-03-06T08:50:00.000-08:00

It's Friday and I'm Bored...

1. Currently President Obama is addressing the nation, and I have ESPN's Colin Cowherd streaming on radio talking about WR's declining in value at 36 years or older. Sorry TO stats prove that 36 year old WRs just don't cut the mustard, especially for a heavy salary. I wrote about it earlier this year in a football post, and of course, it has come true. Was there really ever any doubt? Marvin Harrison and Terrell Owens both released, two of the best WR's of the last 10-13 years cut one after the other. It's actually exciting, even if they land somewhere, they likely won't be the main attraction, even though TO will try to be it just isn't the same. It's kinda like a hot chic who is stuck up or stupid, and in some cases both. You see her from the other end of the bar/room and she is a knockout, someone you must have, and until you finally talk to her, maybe she's easy maybe she's not, but her pure snobbishness and stupidity just decrease her overall value. Sure she's still hot, but that's all she is, hot. She drops back to being just one of the girls, because one day a girl with both looks and personality steps up and becomes that girl, the IT girl. Guys usually don't realize this until they get burned a few times by the said dumb hot girl, and some girls never understand that the tan douchey guy with nothing but daddy's bank account is just that, a loser who hasn't done anything for himself. (Side note- I once heard a kid in college with these traits on the phone with his father and he called him daddy. Almost made me puke in laughter, a complete loser) TO and Harrison are the same thing, sure they'll always be known as one of the greatest WR's of our era, but now they are going to slowly fade to black and become just one of those other WR's. A role player of sorts! Strange when you think about it, but when isthe last time someone talked about Issac Bruce? The whole point of this is that Obama's method of personal speaking is so boring that I'd rather listen to an ESPN radio talk show host than our President. Oh well, I never really was cut out for politics!

2. Last week I mentioned that I was going couples bowling, well that's until I underestimated the popularity of bowling in NYC. Are you kidding me? Let me run down the night for you briefly... Start out at my boo's apt and hosed through a 6-pack of 16ozers, even though I drank one in the cab on the way there. The girls drank wine and the man watched sports-- did someone just mutter UTOPIA, guess I'm just hearing things. Went to our first stop, Lucky Strike, a new trendy bowling alley/lounge/club intended to be a swanky good time. We called ahead and were told that you only needed rezzies if you were getting bottle service. That should have been the red-flag warning we needed not to go there. Place looked amazing, but had a 3-hour wait tagged onto it. A 3-hour wait at a bowling alley that charges exurbanite amount of money to bowl. 5 bucks for shoes, and $15 per person per string. That's absurd! I understand we live in NYC, but that's train-robbery. Where I come from its 2 bucks for shoes and $2.50 per string. Sounds a bit more reasonable. From there we called a few places, they all had 2-hour waits, at this point I'm losing my buzz and just want to bowl and pee can you blame me? We tried one more place that we couldn't get the number for, the lanes at Chelsea Piers. They were full even after I told them I was a famous comedian, and the bouncer kinda believed me... for real. Luckily for us there was a brewery on a pier overlooking the water and we just had some fresh brews and joked around. Whoever thought bowling was so popular... they had me!!

Have a good weekend all--

Herbie

TGIM- (Thank God It's March)

2009-03-04T08:14:00.000-08:00

Take a deep breath folks / Suite Spot faithful-- take it in, just like the hippie instructor at a yoga class tells you to. " Breathe in deep through the nose, and out through the mouth. Concentrate on things that make you happy as you take the kind air in, and embrace them as you exhale!" Nutty as that sounds, that's how happy I am as I write this post. MARCH is here, and for any of us who care about sports and beer, this is truly a great month, arguably the best of the year. Yes the weather still sucks, and it may rain as much as an ordinary month in London or Seattle, but we have so much going on. Its almost like a prix-fixed three course dinner menu. First Course- Spring Training, get the bats, gloves, and syringes out folks, the MLB is back for another season. Spring Training is boring to some, exciting for real fans and anyone involved in fantasy baseball. You get to see who's improved and what sleeper you're going to take 4 rounds ahead of where he "belongs." (side note, there is one guy in my fantasy league that without fail always picks the "sleeper" who does that, sleeps all year. Alex Gordon is a prime example of that- picked him 4 rounds and 2 years too early if anything) Either way, Spring Training is like the gateway drug of television. Your real shows are almost ending, but in May when they do, you won't hit that bender, you'll just get numbed by 9 good innings of your team every night. Main Course- March Madness, it almost goes without saying, this is the Mecca of any playoff in any sport. The World Series is great, Super Bowl is even better, but March Madness is 3 weekends of gold-plated television. Upsets galore, people who care more about perezhilton.com than the economy hoping that Duke will lose so they can win money and buy new shoes. Boyfriends actually love their girlfriends for this entire month. We get to fill out their bracket for free and maybe just maybe get a non-monetary kick-back if they win. Fellas you know what I'm getting at, and if you don't then dump her and find someone that does appreciate the finer things in life. March Madness is that much fun, the unthinkable can happen, and if for some reason your team wins, it's something you will never forget. Take it from me, my team, Syracuse, won in 2003! I remember every minute of the game, and every minute of the riot that followed. Inadvertent smoke bomb in the eye, very intentional billy club to the neck, and a random dude hanging from a tree in celebration falling after breaking the branch. That was also the first night I found out how a tongue ring felt. You just don't forget these things! While your chewing on that you have St. Patty's day, a marathon day of drinking to wash these sports down. I don't remember much of any St. Patty's day I've been involved with, except waking up early, Irish music, and seeing more ugly red-heads than usual. That's about it, but it is a solid time. For dessert, the NBA and NHL are both winding down and teams actually play hard with playoff implications with every game. Rejoice faithful March is here. Good luck on those brackets, stay away from Duke!!

The Itch

2009-03-02T16:11:00.000-08:00

$42-51 - Las Vegas 4-Diamond Hotel on The Strip: Monte Carlo

$89-99 - 4-Star Resort w/Spa Admission & More: Treasure Island

$212 Roundtrip Direct Flight: NYC to LAS

Not only was I receiving tempting promotional offers in my email, but it seemed like everyone and their mother had a Vegas trip planned this February. The same month that marks one year since my last trip to Sin City. Put all of this together and I had myself one hell of an itch.

It's a good thing that Connecticut has two of the largest casinos in the world to help me scratch it. Well, as long as I could find someone else that was willing to partake in a bit of the excitement. Should be easy right? Back in college, all someone had to do was cough something that sounded like "casino" and there would be a car on the road within 30 minutes. But that was years ago. Now my friends are either asleep by 9pm or staying with their girlfriend after a busy day of going to the vet and having a cat spayed.

So there I was. Home on a Saturday evening, staring a night of Hulu in the eyes with my girlfriend out of town at a bachelorette party. Would it really look THAT bad if I headed up to Mohegan Sun by myself? Should I even tell people if I go? Should I lie and say that I went with somebody else?

I realized that I was asking myself these questions for the wrong reason. I wasn't uncomfortable with being in a casino alone. Heck, even when I go with a few buddies I typically found myself alone at a table. Instead, I felt uncomfortable with the prospect of what other people would think - especially if I lost.

After a bit of self reflecting, I realized that I'm a 25 year old rock star (leg guitar) and rock stars don't stay in alone on Saturday nights. So I threw own a shirt, tie, and sports coat, grabbed a few lucky charms, and busted through the casino doors as if it were a Deadwood saloon. Moments later I found myself at a $15 dollar table, throwing back a few JDs, loving life. I must admit, though, that it's a humbling experience when you realize that counting cards isn't as easy as it looks. I wish I had my own Kevin Spacey to practice with. As the night went on my bets got bigger and my blood starting flowing faster. Nothing like an 11 to the dealer's 6 when you've got your largest bet of the evening on the table!

A couple hours later I found myself up a few bucks and had gotten my fix for the evening. But a new itch had surfaced! That extra cash was burning a hole in my pocket. It was time to spend. As soon as I stepped out of the casino I made reservations at my favorite restaurant for my girlfriend and I. After all, what good is a few extra bucks if your can't enjoy it with somebody else?

Gamble responsibly my friends, and remember to always put a 5 spot down on Lou Brown when you're throwing dice.

KLB

A Couple Random Thoughts on a Friday-- 7

2009-02-27T12:20:00.000-08:00

It's Friday and I'm bored...

Having your own opinion- I was talking to a client, a slightly older well respected fellow, this week about business, sports,the upcoming weekend, and the usual myriad of topics because after all, who really wants to talk business. During the conversation we had a clear disagreeance on a subject, think it was who the Patriots should draft this year. (yes that is part of my job description) Most times I would try and let the client "always be right" but this was my team and without thinking I abruptly and rather rude said, "I doubt that will ever happen...long pause... a quick stutter... but that's just my opinion." Ready for a lashing and an instant decrease in business I waited for his reply. "That's how the world works baby he said, you have to have an opinion or we all would still be cavemen wearing cloths and holding a club." Laughter followed, and then I realized he's right. It's always good to have your opinion and voice it when necessary, and as long as you have a reasonable basis, then stick to it. Jay Bilas, an ESPN College Basketball Analyst says quite often when someone disagrees with him or vice versa that, "Reasonable minds will disagree, but as long as there is reason, they have every right to." Now if your significant other wants to spend all your money shopping one day, and wants you to go with her to carry the bags-- that is unreasonable. You'll find out where to draw your own line on this, but appreciate the fact that people see things differently than you, it can be humbling, but next time someone disagrees with you, listen why and maybe take something away from it.

That was a little too serious-- I just passed wind under my desk. I call that laying down a bunt... Baseball term I know, but you try to sneak one by and hope the defense doesn't notice. This one appears to be a successful bunt

Going to the Knicks game tonight in baller seats-- not exactly the Celtics, but 10th row-mid court and a few cold brews go a long way

Going couples bowling tomorrow night, better than a couples screening of Revolutionary Road. I can imagine that tag line, "4 couples enter, only 1 will make there way out" If you've "scene" the movie (get it) than that last bit will make sense and maybe provide a laugh, if you haven't "scene" the movie, don't see it with your gf/wife/or other, you will contemplate breaking up with the person before the movie is over. I saw 3 engagement rings thrown at the screen when I was there. Holding my boo's hand was hard to do for the first 10 minutes after leaving.... enough said!

Also, just saw someone take a sip of their coke and put their tongue nearly down the whole bottle... not exactly a great thought to head to the weekend on, but that's all I've got...

Herbie

The Day the Funny Died

2009-02-22T01:33:00.000-08:00

If you live in a major West Coast radio market, you're probably familiar with the consistantly funny Adam Carolla Radio Show. The syndicated morning comedy broadcast out of Los Angeles that was slated as the replacement to Howard Stern on West Coast Terrestrial radio has been consistently funny from the start (in stark contrast to the abysmal David Lee Roth Show out of New York). Even if you only know him from his near-legendary stint on Loveline, you know that Adam brings the funny in a big way everyday. Unfortunately, those radio days stopped on Friday as his show was cancelled.

If you ask me, this cancellation (billed as a format change at the station) is the work of the same type of people that cancelled the hit original Star Trek series back in the 60's. Radio ratings tabulation is a archaic cluster fuck of Arbitron and people meters that just doesn't work. I believe that the show is actually a hit. There is anecdotal evidence of this by Carolla being consistently rated towards the top of the iTunes comedy top 10, but better still is the fact that smart people (foremost among them, me) really think the show is good. As far as I'm concerned, that's all you need. Aim high and the masses will follow in time.

Fortunately for all, Adam is setting up a new venue for his jags about the minutia of everyday life via a podcast only show on his website. Still, the fact that such a quality show would get axed when there is so much crap on the air is mind-boggling. The fact that this happened the same day that Conan O'Brien went off the air, is just a one-two combination to the gut of comedy fans everywhere. Personally, Carolla has been a welcome companion for me since I moved to California. I encourage anyone and everyone to support his podcast venture once it gets up and running. I am supremely confident that you'll be glad you did. And while you're at it, check out The Hammer on dvd. Carolla's very funny film only got a limited release last year, but it's a real hoot.

A Couple Random Thoughts on a Friday-- 6

2009-02-20T08:47:00.000-08:00

It's Friday and I'm bored...

1. ESPN's Streak for Cash- I don't know if any of you have done this or are doing this already, but I highly recommend it for any sports fans looking to win a cool million bucks without even spending a penny. The game can be found right off of ESPN's home page. ESPN gives you about 7 or so selections a day. "Who will win this game?" "Which player will score more points?" With a choice of two potential outcomes, Team A or Team B, Player A or Player B. If you can guess 27 consecutive outcomes in a row, you win $1,000,000 risk free. Sounds doable right? WRONG. I've been involved with this for about a month now and am 13-35-1 currently, that's a .271 clip. Pathetic, I know right! But ESPN is tricky, giving you soccer games and golf outcomes that are nearly impossible to choose. Especially when outside of 6 teams, I know nothing of EURO league soccer. You take my .071 soccer score, and my .000 Tennis score, you can understand my pain. My best win streak is 3, College hoops is the only sport where I stay afloat, makes sense as I am a hoops Guru. I pick results that are supposed to happen, they just never do. I have been a burden to any team I pick. The Magic should beat the Bobcats tonight, that is a choice, I know that if I pick the Magic tonight, they will lose. Murphy's law states, "Anything that can go wrong will go wrong." Well, lets just rename Murphy's Law and call it Herbie's Law, sounds better and is much more accurate! Even with my disdain and disgust for this game, check it out!

Unfortunately-- that's all I have today, I have to go take a test so I can keep my license and my job!

Don't be upset faithful who helped us turn 3000 yesterday, we were 10 days quicker to 3000 then we were to 2000. Thanks again all..

Have a good weekend

Herbie

Eastbound and Down

2009-02-19T01:08:00.000-08:00

If last week's pilot episode is any indication of future returns, rumors of HBO's demise as the source for the best shows on TV have been greatly exaggerated. Danny McBride (Tropic Thunder, Pineapple Express) lives up to his "next big thing" reputation starring as Kenny Powers, a former relief pitching phenom with a ruined arm that's about as useless as his reprehensible personality. Powers is forced to take a job as a substitute teacher at his old high school and his former sky high superstar attitude doesn't mesh well with the good folk of his hometown. He's an insufferable jerk along the lines of a Ricky Bobby except turned up to the maximum in every regard. I won't ruin any of the hilarious gags here but suffice it to say if you enjoyed McBride's instant cult classic The Foot Fist Way, then you'll find alot to like about Eastbound and Down. Catch it Sunday nights on HBO. You won't be sorry.

A Couple Random Thoughts on a Friday--5

2009-02-13T09:30:00.000-08:00

It's Friday and I'm Bored

1. Flight 3407- They say bad things come in 3's. So that worries me for people who are flying right now. I know of 6-8 people who are flying Continental Airlines today, and it does worry me a bit. One of them being the boo herself. (yes faithful, that means I am spending V- day drinking a 6-pack of loneliness) First plane crash, our hero, Sully landed his passengers in the freezing Hudson river, everyone survived! I wake up this morning at 5:45 turn on the news and learn of the second crash, a connector jet that landed on a house, killing all passengers I believe 49 and one grounded citizen. So crash one,-100% survival, crash two- 0% survival but a small plane. Hopefully the saying about bad things doesn't apply here, b/c it feels the third could be the biggest and worst of them all. I love flying, and continue to think it is the safest means of fast, normally reliable transport, but this is truly saddening. My deepest sympathies out to the families of the victims of this and any crash.

2. Survivor-- The latest season of Survivor kicked off last night with 16 eager survivors trying to Outwit, Outlast, Outplay and win a cool million bucks. Set in the Tocantins, Brazil. This season has the fixings to be a good one. Cast appears to be diverse and lively, challenges started off strong, and host Jeff Probst won't settle for a show that is sub-par. With 16 survivors in the first episode it was difficult to get to know them all, but a few were profiled last night. A dumb old lady bus driver named Sandy who people will end up feeling bad and root for. This lady was given a clue "walk 10 paces towards the palm tree" Problem is, she didn't know what a pace was! How can you not know what a pace is? I was shocked and cracked up with laughter. A pace is a four-letter word that I thought 100% of the non mentally-challenged populous of this nation knew. Sandy proved me wrong, and proved me wrong quick. I am intrigued to watch her the rest of the season so that she can help me become a dumber person. Picture the real-life Lloyd Christmas at 47 years old, female and driving a big-yellow school bus. The girl who got voted off last night had an endowment that would rival any of the ivy league schools. Carolina meet Harvard. Sad to see her go because she also sported a "Cindy Crawford" A birthmark/mole or other mark on your face that makes you look hot and not Fugly. She has hers right above her lip, as Borat would say "That's a Nice." I sport a similar one on my neck that made me share a bond with her and root for her. Guess it wasn't meant to be.

3. Keen's chophouse- NYC steakhouse that I went to last night. This is what I call a "gentleman's steakhouse". I felt like I was in the 1930's last night, only I wasn't wearing a top hat and smoking a cigar. Both of which were the norm at Keen's before smoking was banned in bars, and top hats went out of style! Either way, went there to meet a client, and talk shop over a beer or two. Twice during our stay a server came around and dropped off a basket with 3 ribs in it. (They are on the house for patrons who are near the bar) The ribs were good as were the fries and steak skewers we ordered! It's a great place to go with your buddies before heading to MSG as it is a mere 3 blocks away, not a place to bring your sweetheart, she'd hate it and the other men around would hate you for bringing a waft of estrogen into the bar. I've eaten dinner there as well... very tasty.

4. Valentine's Day- Drinking a 6-pack of loneliness this weekend? Anyone with me? The Boo is out of town-- will be celebrating at a later date... if she's lucky!!!

5. NBA All Star Weekend- It's in Phoenix this year, and should be exciting,if for nothing else the dunk contest. I'm curious to see the creativity of Dwight Howard this year, and to see if 5'10 Nate Robinson can do any dunks he didn't do a few years back. The East will win this year, Lebron will find a way to do more than Kobe and win the MVP, even though Kobe is still the best player in the league/ world. Sleeper pick- Paul Pierce for MVP

Have a good weekend all

--Herbie

A-rod = Amazing Player + Horrible Judgement

2009-02-09T23:33:00.000-08:00

In 1996, Alex Rodriguez tossed up an unprecedented rookie season. His .358 batting average led the league while popping 36 homers and 123 RBI. He also led the league in runs (141), doubles (54), and total bases (379). Factor in some great defense and you could argue not only that he's never been better, but that this was the greatest season ever for a shortstop. How do you follow this up? Well you can't really, but you can go on to be the best player of your generation and such a natural talent even accusations from a (sadly) credible source in Jose Canseco were laughed off despite the fact that his books have been eerily accurate to this point. When A-Rod's home run totals spiked to near 60 in '01-'02, people credited it to his natural improvement and the bandbox nature of his home stadium. When he got noticeably bigger after his trade to the Yankees, it was attributed to getting older, or adjusting to his new position of third base. All these red flags and even the biggest A-Rod hater wouldn't think to pin performance enhancing drugs on him.

What makes Rodriguez different from Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, and other all-time greats who have recently fallen under the cloud of steroids? He represented the purity of the game. An immense talent with an unquenchable need to succeed, and a willingness to work as hard as was necessary. This was the ideal that would topple the manufactured stats of the steroid era. Sure all the records were tainted, but A-Rod would heroically raise the bar in a matter of years. Now, he'll still be breaking all the records in the next decade, but it will only perpetuate the stigma of cheating that rots the heart of America's Pastime like a cancer. We won't be seeing another player like Alex Rodriguez for a long, long time. What a shame that it will be good riddance.

A Couple Random Thoughts on a Friday-- 4

2009-02-06T10:24:00.000-08:00

It's Friday and I'm Bored

1. So for Super Bowl Sunday, my one roommate who cares about sports is away, and I'm heavily craving Pizza/Wings/Chips/Dip Ice cold beer and all the finer things to enjoy on such a holiday. I had a few boxes in a few different pools, and I decided to lay some loot on the Cardinals moneyline. For you non degenerates out there, that means simply to just win the game, there is no spread. So I'm amped to watch the game see a few commercials laugh it up a bit and enjoy myself before another 5-day work week kicks me in my Munk (man-junk) repeatedly. So I walk into the living room to find two hungover souls watching step brothers, we're 15 minutes from pre-game festivities, and no one had even mentioned ordering pizza and wings yet. I didn't even have a cold beer in my hand. I needed to call an audible, and I needed to do it fast. Luckily I'm as social as Stevie Wonder is blind, my first phone call turned into an instant invite to a party at a buddies place. I asked what I had to bring, he said nothing, when a friend says nothing it means show up with a sixer or two and call yourself welcomed. Hopped in a cab down there went to a D'agostinos to pick up some brewski. (Small sidebar if any of you have brothers, call them broski a few times, its addicting and fun to say, and it makes you thirsty for a beverage of the adult variety, in turn making you an alcoholic) I walked by a bar on the way in and saw them flipping the coin, I was a half block away and had to hurry. I hate missing kickoff-- its like watching Lost and starting from the 3rd season or reading a book and starting on page 200, it's criminal. Went right to the cold beer section grabbed a sixer of Yuengling black and Tan, and a sixer of the Saranac Brewery Variety (Light beer drinkers, this variety pack is not for you!) Everything was going as planned until I got to the register where I ran into plumpy mcghee. This stout woman who was the Latin equivalent of Yokozuno took 3 minutes looking at my ID, couldn't find my birth date and called the manager for assistance. I'm ticked and then I hear the guy behind me mutter under his breath "Damn, I'm gonna miss kickoff!" Well me too brother, if Bertha wasn't taking so long with my ID I'd be in front of the couch already.

I finally show up to the apartment, 3 minutes of the game had gone by, I was ticked but my friends gave me the full recap. The spread was delicious, bean dip, scoops, queso, salsa, pizza on the way, mozzarella balls wrapped in prosciutto, Brownies, and in the back corner, a dozen Dunkin Donuts. I couldn't believe it. I only knew three people there, but as I have no shame this was my icebreaker. "Who brought the donuts?" Depressingly, the guy owns up to it, and everyone laughs at him. This guy obviously didn't have his game face on when he made his purchase. Either that or he sits when he pees! As the game went on it was evident to my friends that was either a Cardinals fan, or that I had some baggage riding on the game. So I explained the bet and all the females asked their boyfriends quietly, "What does he mean by Moneyline?" The guys who knew answered immediately, and the metro sexual boyfriends who watch Oxygen and Bravo with their GF's instead of testosterone filled channels like ESPN had the same puzzled look as they did when the audience chose Reuben Stoddard instead of "Clay the only thing Aiken is my arse."

Regardless the game got real close near the end, and with Arizona driving down 20-16 I said that if Arizona won the game I would everyone of the donuts left in the box, which happened to be all of them. Arizona scores 30-seconds later, and much like Adam when he took a bite of the poisonous apple, which doomed him. I took a bite of the "POISONOUS CHOCOLATE FROSTED" when there was still 2:47 on the clock for Pitt to come back and score, win the Superbowl, take my money, and leave everyone in the apartment dying in laughter. Lesson learned, I took a bite before my destiny was filled, and I paid not only the piper, but The House as well. My broski, who had the opposite bet,shot me a text that night "You are a team's worst nightmare!" That sums it up... Damn you guy who brought the donuts in the first place.

One small side note- Bruce Springsteen's halftime show was great, he is 59 years old and can still really wail. Imagine someone you know that age sliding crotch first into a camera jamming out in tight black jeans and a guitar from 1983... not a pretty sight is it!!

For another great live performance check out this cut of Worlds Apart http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=invIZMdJE40 This is a man passionate in his craft... and he has a great guitar solo at the 4:35 mark or so!!

2. Do English girls and other surrounding cold/ sunless countries wear makeup? Are they naturally uglier? I know you have a good one here and there, but something just seems off about them. Hygiene maybe, I'm not really sure. I mean girls in Seattle don't seem too have the same problem. Maybe it's in the air... or maybe Proctor & Gamble is still ticked about how we were treated in the 1700s and won't ship them any toothpaste.... Jury's out on this one folks...

Until next time all ye faithful--

Herbie

The Suite Spot Weekly TV Round Up: 2/1-2/7

2009-02-06T09:00:00.000-08:00

The winter TV season is in full swing and since it's been some time since I've written one of these columns, I've got a lot to talk about - think of this as a TV buffet. The obvious choice to open with? Lost. Hard to believe, but we're already four episodes into the 17-episode fifth season. This week's installment, while panned by many because of it's slow pacing and what many have called a return to a dead formula, still kept me glued to my seat. Yes, I agree that the horrendous chemistry between Jack and Kate bogged down a significant portion of the episode (as did the disappointing red-herring reveal of Carole Littleton's uninvolvement with Kate's lawsuit), but the shortcomings were easily outweighed by the happenings on the island. Scott offered his predictions earlier this week and I've got some as well. I'll let you good folks argue in the comments about their validity:

Seeing as how Penny and Desmond aren't married, we can assume that the baby took his mother's name. While it's quite likely that the baby was indeed named after Charlie Pace, his formal name would be? Charles Widmore. I posit that Penny just gave birth to her own father. Think about it.
And speaking of lineage, let me throw these two guesses out there as well: Daniel is Charlotte's father and Miles is the son of Pierre Chang.
And for my final trick, by the end of this season, we're going to find out that Richard Alpert, and possibly some of the other early Others, have only four toed feet. Realistically, whomever's been on the island the longest built that statue and it's safe to guess they built it in the only image they knew - their own.

And for you word freaks who loved finding out that "Hoffs/Drawlar" was an anagram for "flash forward" (the funeral home from the season three finale), then you'll love this: the carpet cleaning van that Ben had been driving Locke's body around in bears the name Canton-Rainier and that's an anagram for reincarnation. So even though most have assumed it anyway, I'd say it's for certain now that Jeremy Bentham has not taken his last breath.

Moving on to Heroes. The show returned this past Monday for what NBC spent an ungodly amount of money on to promote during the Superbowl. While they wisely billed it as a new season (it's actually the second half of season three), I'm not sure the masked wording is going to be able to make people forget about the abysmally bad seasons two and three, part one. Heroes' frosh season was critically acclaimed and for good reason - it was damn good television. But ever since the strike-shortened second season, the sci-fi drama has never been able to reclaim its past glory. Claims of "comic book logic" can only account for the show's poor inconsistency for so long. That being said, this week's mid-season premiere was a step in the right direction and hopefully the return of Bryan Fuller will remedy some of what's wrong. Fuller was a co-EP during season one, but left after that to chair Pushing Daisies. PD has since been canceled by ABC and Fuller has returned to Heroes.

Now, some quick thoughts on shows that everyone should be watching, but not enough are:

Battlestar Galactica (airs Fridays at 10PM on SciFi) - Entering the tail end of its fourth and final season, BSG has proven to be one of the most well written and well acted dramas on TV. I shunned the show initially because I was never a fan of anything even remotely similar to Star Trek. That being said, BSG is not Star Trek. It's an incredibly layered, smart, textured narrative that says far more about human nature, intolerance, and ethics, than it does about stun rays and warp speed. I blew through the first three seasons on DVD in about two weeks. You will too.
Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations (airs Mondays at 10PM on Travel Channel): I didn't even know the Travel Channel existed and had you mentioned this show to me, I would have assumed it was on Food Network... mainly because Bourdain used to be. AB:NR is much more than a Tasty Travels rip-off though. It's part Planet Earth, part Sundance documentary, part cooking show, and it's all narrated by one of the most likable assholes currently on TV.
Friday Night Lights (airs Friday at 9PM on NBC): This show is going to get canceled. Period. And it's a damn shame too. Arguably one of the greatest sports dramas to ever grace the small screen, FNL (a spin-off of the film in title and topic only), is the quintessential slice of Americana that everyone can relate to. Unfortunately, the ratings have never been there and had DirecTV not ponied up to secure first-run airing rights for the third season (which is now airing in its second run broadcast premiere on NBC), then season two probably would have been the end for Dillon Panthers.

And finally, a look to the future. I recently screened the opening minutes of the new ABC drama The Unusuals a few weeks ago and I think the alphabet network might be on to something with this one. In a TV landscape that's still dominated with police dramas, it takes a lot to stand-out. ABC has already grabbed one success this season with Life on Mars (that's another one that you should be watching and probably aren't) and I'm guessing The Unusuals (premieres Wednesday, April 8th, at 10PM) will follow suit.

As always, comments are welcome, and thanks for reading.

-Tooms

LOST Prediction

2009-02-04T09:24:00.000-08:00

Quick shout out to you Lost fans eagerly awaiting tonights episode...

I predict that Desmond and Penny's son Charlie (who was presumably named after our Charlie from the island), actually is our Charlie from the island. Wouldn't that be awesome and explain all the focus put on the birth of their son and the continued focus on them. It would also add alot of weight to Charlie's sacrifice to save everyone and his friendship with Desmond. Think about it and rememeber that you heard it here first.

Wanna get away?

2009-02-02T19:28:00.000-08:00

So it's 10:30 pm and I'm starting to think about my next vacation. My girlfriend and I are trying to find a relaxing yet adventurous destination for our next rendezvous.

Bahamas? Been there, done that.

Jamaica? I'd prefer to stay somewhat clothed.

Punta Cana? We'd like to at least have the OPTION of leaving the resort.

Europe? Not with the Euro where it's at.

Don't get me wrong. All of the places that I listed above would most certainly offer wonderful experiences - just not quite what we're looking for. Instead, maybe we should consider something a bit more...local.

The summer before my freshman year of high school, my family took off on the most amazing trip of our lives. Five weeks, 11,000 miles, twenty-nine States and hundreds of aw-inspiring moments. Relaxing beaches, magnificent mountains, unequaled National Parks - America is a beautiful place. The problem is that many of us will never take the time to appreciate it!

Well now is the perfect time. With the economy at its knees, a sudden flood of domestic tourism could be a significant help. Sit back, relax and enjoy a beachside margarita at Maui Mike's instead of Cancun Charlie's. Sink your teeth into a set of Memphis Dry Rub Ribs and leave the Foie Gras to Parisians. Reconsider how you decide to spend this year's stimulus check. Let's start putting our hard earned US dollars back into the US economy.

Here's a few recommendations from The Suite Spot:

Lake Tahoe: Not only do you get to soak up the sun on beautiful beaches by the crystal clear lake water, but you can add a little excitement with craps or blackjack. Put some down on Lou Brown for me.

Alaska: If you can afford it, get on the next plane. Walk on glaciers, snorkel in the artic, or toss bread to eagles as if they were pigeons. Probably the most extraordinary location in America.

San Diego: Catch a Padres game at Petco or head on over to the zoo to see the pandas. Not your thing? No worries. It'll be 80 degress - sunny with a slight breeze.

A Couple Random Thoughts on a Friday-- 3

2009-01-30T08:56:00.000-08:00

It's Friday and I'm Bored

1. If you live in NYC like I do, do yourself a favor and give Smith and Wollensky's a try. Went there on Tuesday night, now I've been there three or so times in the past so I am familiar with their service and meat quality. I have not been disappointed yet. Its a classic steakhouse with men's cuts and delicious apps and desserts. Wine list is good enough for me and the drinks are made like a 14 year old watching Baywatch, stiff. I had the crab meat cocktail and calamari for an app, a fillet for dinner and chocolate mousse cake for dessert. All very plentiful and filling. I was so full I had to limp home b/c 14 ounces of succulent beef was stuck in my left chamber of my stomach. Either way try it out... it's not only in NYC either other locations Chicago, Miami, D.C. Vegas, Philly, Columbus, Houston and Boston. I have had better steaks, but this place is consistently an A rated place for a men's meal.

2. Youtube video of the week-- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NHH-6ZQktRQ A co-worker sent this to me earlier this week. Most of it appears to be fake, but its freakish anyway and really fun to watch.
Especially three kicks in a row to the bell tower from Mason Crosby, are you kidding me?

3. Spent last weekend in Dallas, TX for a college friends wedding- People were very friendly, don't know what kind of Tequila I was drinking maybe Silver Souza but it was potent, plentiful, and pleasing. Yes that's an alliteration.

4. I had 5 or so brews last night, nothing heavy or anything, but I did forget to eat dinner. You wake up the next day with a weird feeling in your stomach. I'm not sure what the feeling is, but I can assure you its not pleasant. Strangest part is, you try and eat a disgusting breakfast eggs, bacon, and cheese and you can only put half of it down because you don't feel hungry, even though you haven't eaten in 16 hours. I'm no science major, but lets add this one to the list of things to figure out... Cancer, AIDS, why people like OPRAH, day after hunger followed by no appetite. In that order!! I hate Oprah and her book club.

5. I work on wall st we don't get paid high salaries we make it up on bonus. I officially hate Barack HUSSEIN Obama. Welcome to the United Socialist States of America. He is going to screw a lot of people over and NYC will only weaken when no one can afford to live here etc. He won't understand the effects for a few years when his approval ratings are bush-like. I hope I have to eat my words... but right now I'm going to eat a sandwich...

Have a good weekend all faithful--

UFC 94 Preview/ Prediction

2009-01-30T01:00:00.000-08:00

It's the biggest fight of the year and it's only January! The rematch everyone has been waiting for: B.J. Penn vs. Georges St. Pierre for the UFC Welterweight Title.

Who is Georges St. Pierre?

He's the UFC Welterweight Champion and is universally considered the #1 ranked fighter in the world in the weight class and one of the top few pound for pound fighters ever. Except for a flukey loss to Matt Serra that he's since brutally avenged, GSP has completely cleaned out the very tough Welterweight division and is left with no real challengers, making this the perfect time for this superfight.

Who is B.J. Penn?

Oh, he's only the UFC Lightweight (155 lbs.) champion, former Welterweight (170 lbs.) champ, and the greatest and most decorated jiu-jitsu practitioner that the United States has ever produced. He earned his black belt faster than any other American and won the 2000 World Jiu-Jitsu Championships. He's starred at Welterweight in the past but has since slimmed back down to Lightweight and he has ruled the division with an iron fist. He's got something to prove since his contraversial loss to St. Pierre in 2006 and has been waiting for a chance to move up in weight again for a shot at GSP's title.

What's the case for St. Pierre?

No one can question BJ's talent, but his conditioning has always been a question mark. BJ gassed out in the first fight with St. Pierre, and though Penn dominated Round One, GSP's superior conditioning won him the last two rounds for a split decision. As a title fight, this one can go a maximum of five rounds and this plays directly into GSP's strategy. He can use his world class wrestling to try to control BJ and drag the fight into the later rounds. A tired BJ will be susceptible to St. Pierre's extensive arsenal of kicks and take downs.

What's the case for Penn?

Though a great striker in his own right, GSP will want no part of standing and trading with BJ as Penn has shown time and time again that his boxing is among the best in the world. In addition, BJ has an advantage on the ground over just about anyone on earth. BJ has made a commitment to conditioning in recent fights and the results have shown with his domination of the Lightweight ranks. If he's brought his new gas tank with him to the 170 lb. division, then he is capable of brutalizing GSP on the feet and submitting him on the ground. Questions have been raised about GSP's heart and that he is a quitter due to his tapout loss to Matt Serra. I don't know about that, but he'll BJ will definitely put those claims to the test.

Who will win?

The Suite Spot believes that BJ has trained hard and wants to cement his legendary status. Penn will win by submission in the 3rd round. That said, this is going to be a hell of a fight and even if BJ shows up ready and in shape, GSP is a phenomenal talent and has every chance to come out victorious. Do yourself a favor and don't miss this huge super fight that the UFC has put together for you this Saturday!

Taken with Taken

2009-01-29T23:52:00.000-08:00

Liam Neeson stars as a badass in search of his kidnapped daughter in Taken. Otherwise a by-the-numbers thriller, Taken scores big in the action department. The film starts slow, setting the mood and casually introducing Neeson's character as a sympathetic figure due to events in his life, but once Taken gets rolling... look out! Liam Neeson is an inspired choice as the lead and you can tell that he really buys into the role. In a world of warmed over Bournes and Transporters, Taken is as good as it gets nowadays if you're looking for an action thrill-ride.

Our Answer to Yesterday's Hoop Question

2009-01-28T05:16:00.001-08:00

A couple good comments on the blog yesterday, a decisive answer from Paulo, and an "I'm in second year law school answer" from Mene Gene. The question is a tough one to answer, hence I asked it.

On one side of the coin you have the ACC, with perennial powerhouses in Duke and UNC, and a strong supporting cast this year with Wake Forest and Clemson. We'll say these four teams are locks in the tourney. After these four you do fall off a cliff a bit. Virginia Tech, FSU, BC and Miami are all teams that have showed signs this year, but are not consistent enough to be locks and two if not three of these teams might see themselves playing in the NIT instead of the big dance. Keep in mind, every team has that one night where they don't perform and lose to a lesser opponenet but these four teams do that too often. Lets break it down...
V-tech- Big wins- @ Wake, @ Miami, BC. Bad losses- Seton Hall, @ Georgia, Wisconsin.
Miami- Big wins- @BC, BAd losses - N.C State and a blow out by UNC
BC - Big wins- UNC Bad losses- Harvard, St. Louis (yes you read that right, Harvard and the Billicans of St. Louis)
FSU- Big wins- Florida Bad losses- Northwestern

After these teams competition drops off and competitive teams of old - GA Tech, Maryland, NC State are just not good this year!

As of now I see 5 teams dancing from the ACC- Duke, UNC, Wake, Clemson, and V-Tech . I do worry about the alliterative Classic Clemson Collapse which seems to happen when they get to 15 wins. They have 17 now and have lost 2 of their last 3. Watch out!

Also from the polls, the ACC has 4 ranked teams, 3 of which in the top 10...

The flip-side of that coin is the Big East- A tough, physical, gritty conference with league legends Georgetown, Syracuse, UCONN, and St. Johns. People are talking that this league can get 9 teams in to the dance this year, and maybe even 10 (that I doubt the committe will ever let happen) Right now I think that the Big East has 6 locks with three teams on the bubble. Marquette, Louisville, UCONN, Pitt, Syracuse, and Nova are in. Georgetown, Notre Dame and West Virginia are on the verge, and Providence has a shot as well. Mene Gene made the argument of sample size and how the extra teams in the Big East help aid it in being a more "powerful" conference. Agreed to a point but that same argument can be said if the big east had only 4 strong teams and 12 weak teams, you would say that since there are 12 weak teams and only 4 teams with merit, that it was overall a weak conference. I look at it as how many teams are going to get in the tournament, the Big East's RPI's when the numbers finally come out, will be very strong, and their SOS (strength of schedule) will be one main factor in such a good RPI. That stat basically spells out a great deal how strong your conference is, as a higher percentage of games are in and not out of conference... advantage big east

Conclusion-
Big East has 8 teams in the top 25 with a few lurking on the outskirts. To the ACC's 4.
Big East has 4 top ten teams to the ACC's 3.
Big East teams play a harder schedule.

Not saying that the best team is in the Big East, I think its either in the ACC (UNC) or Big 12- Oklahoma, but as far as a conference goes, this year Big East is the cream of the crop.

Which Conference is Stronger in NCAA Hoops?

2009-01-27T10:36:00.000-08:00

ACC or Big East? Let us know your thoughts!!

The Suite Spot turns 2000

2009-01-21T06:29:00.000-08:00

It took just a hair over a month to go from 1000 to 2000 hits, we appreciate all the support, comments, and feedback we have received. We had some real solid posts this month, A Life Without Cable, UFC Previews, NFL briefs/playoff predictions, Some random thoughts on a Friday, and a few other sports/TV related posts. We have linked up with two other blogs. Jackie's Corner Table is a good blog for anyone interested in food and eating out in NYC. The other is a San Fransisco sports blog dedicated to the 49ers. Both friends of The Suite Spot, so give their site a try as well!!! Look forward to turning 3000. Please tell your friends, family, co-workers anyone who would find this blog interesting, and leave us feedback on anything we can do to enhance your experience.

TSS- Herbie,Beardo,Tooms, KLB

MLB Network-- Thank you God (and Time Warner)

2009-01-20T12:54:00.000-08:00

Finally Time Warner Cable has done me some sort of good... some sort of (David) Justice. They picked up one of the official major sports networks. For the same lofty price of my monthly bill, I can now watch the hot stove report every night, can watch games of old and specials on players during and before my time! Last night over a brownie and some delicious 1% milk, I caught a special on Nolan Ryan's 7 no-hitters. His last no hitter came when he was 44 years old, and his last out against a youthful Roberto Alomar. That would be like Jamie Moyer pitching a no no last year... only The Ryan Express was throwing 95 still and taking personally endorsed Excedrin before and after every game. Remember how cheesy those commercials were, Nolan sitting in a blank Russel Athletic shirt with grey chest and dark blue sleeves. He would throw into a pitching target with a flame and smoke tailing the ball with every pitch. Commercial must have been great for Excedrin as it gave every viewer a headache!
Regardless, this channel has it all, and it will air some out of market games during the regular season, and will have so much spring training coverage it will be like a month long Christmas for baseball fans. Hopefully if this channel is successful it will spur the NFL, NBA, and others to come through my cable box. I'll settle for now

Merry Blartmas!!!

2009-01-16T10:37:00.001-08:00

A Couple Random Thoughts on a Friday-- 2

2009-01-16T07:39:00.000-08:00

Its Friday and I'm bored...

1. It was so cold out this morning, that even waiting for the subway I could still see my breath. I won't get into the many ways the NYC subway system is flawed, but my feet, all three legs, hands and face are still freezing now and it's been 3.5 hours since I was last outside! I 'm shocked that in a city filled with technology, we can't have space heaters (and air conditioners in the summer) underground in the subway system. More importantly bus-stops where you aren't underground and shielded from the brutal cold/ wind. Either way I'm cold, as was my heart as I wrote that.

2. American Idol-- This is the only time I'll watch, or even entertain the thought of watching American Idol, the very beginning. This is the pure entertainment value of the show, some people are strong, some people are just god awful, some people just do it to get on TV. I watch it solely for the laughter I get from Simon's expressions when one of the said awful is trying out. Usually a jaw drop, blinkless face followed by a hilarious comment. This week after telling a contestant he was one of the worst he'd ever seen, the contestant said maybe he needs a year of practice and that he'd come back next year. Simon responded by telling him that he should find something else to do with his life, b/c a lifetime of practice will never make him have a good voice. The truth is, he's right!! I know being white and under 6 feet tall I will never play professional basketball no matter how hard I practice. Growing up, I practiced hard, taking jumpshots til midnight in the winter time, learning how to dribble without looking at the ball by looking at the sky at night and learning the constellations, playing with kids 4-7 years older than me and getting to their level of play. It made me a very good basketball player, but I lacked some of the genetics that would have helped me play competitively at a higher level. I fully believe in dreaming about doing something great and achieving it, and I do believe that hard work will always pay off. The problem is, some things are just plain unattainable and people need to realize that sometimes dreams are just that --- dreams. Sorry to bash peoples hopes out there. Certain people aren't built for certain things, no matter how big the dream. Which leads me to one of the best things I've seen on American Idol followed by one of the worst things I've ever seen. Scott Macintyre was the first blind contestant I'd seen on the show, and they setup a whole story about his road and his talent. He showed up with the aid of a walking stick and human companion and absolutely wowed America. This man dreamed big, and in this case it aided by his talent, came through. A mesmerizing audition and a golden ticket to Hollywood was followed by a disgrace to him on national TV. Host Ryan Seacrest, how he is hosting a major TV show is sill a joke to me, tried to hi-five a blind person after he came out of the audition http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zmrmwm3FHMQ The man is blind Seacrest, cut him some slack. Either way this show is only good to watch for another two weeks, until it matters!

3. A lot of responses to my Rose Byrnes comment. Yes she is hot, but I never said she was the hottest thing on TV. I will be watching Damages episode two later today, Will keep you updated!

4.- Song of the Week- Dyer Maker by Led Zeppelin-- One of the better songs of all time, and in my opinion the best if not one of the best drummed songs of all time. John Bonham's drum solo about 2.5 minutes in is impressive and the song is very addicting and melodic. Sheryl Crow recently covered the song and does a bangup job, she even plays the accordion. Not the sexiest thing in the world having a girl playing accordion but Sheryl pulls it off and covers the song well. Specifically listen to it at the 1:11- 1:14 mark where she spices it up a bit. Check it out http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNjbGDLf-_8&feature=PlayList&p=0F875E9BBF2ADB9D&playnext=1&index=48

Have a good weekend---

Herbie

71, 77, 74, 73, 74, 73, 72

2009-01-14T23:39:00.000-08:00

What are these numbers? They're the high temperatures forecasted for the week of 1/11/09 - 1/17/09 in San Jose, CA. Enjoy the blistering cold rest of the country. Oh, and keep telling yourself that you love having 4 seasons and the crisp cold air and all that jazz. We have enough people out here already. Please stay where you are... and for god's sake bundle up.

Bagels on Monday

2009-01-14T21:49:00.000-08:00

I probably won’t be getting a raise this year. In fact, it’s highly unlikely that you will either. Instead, we get the pleasure of constantly stressing over benefit changes, slumping 401Ks, re-orgs, and layoff rumors. Our current economic state has caused our employers to pinch pennies worse than a ninety year-old man and we feel the repercussions. But does it really have to feel this bad?

In a conversation a few weeks ago with a family member, I found out that his company instituted a new tuition reimbursement program. This is the first year that they have ever offered tuition reimbursement. Shocked that it’s happened now? I certainly was at first, but after thinking about it for a few minutes, it started making a lot of sense. Offering education benefits accomplishes at least three important things. First, it’s a sound investment. It equips your employees with a deeper knowledge base and an expanded skillset - both of which should improve performance and increase their overall value. Second, it increases the likelihood that your employees will stick around. After all, MBAs degrees aren’t earned over night. Third, and most important, it improves employee satisfaction. There is something extremely comforting in knowing that your employer wants to see you get a better education and is willing to pay for it.

On a similar note, a friend of mine recently started a new job and was excited to tell me about her first day. Of the many differences between her old and new job, one of the first things that she mentioned was that her employer spoils its workers with bagels every Monday morning. What a great way to start off your week! Imagine struggling to get your aching bones out of bed at 6:00 AM, spilling coffee on your lap during the morning commute, and having the weather man remind you that it’s going to be below 20 degrees for the entire work week. But wait! As soon as I get into the office I’m gonna toast myself an everything bagel, spread a little bit of jalapeno cream cheese on top, and forget about the week’s stresses as a take my first bite. Talk about improving employee morale and shielding people from the things that they worry about every day. And all it took was a stinkin’ 99-cent bagel!

People look forward to the little things throughout the day that make them happy: grabbing a snack from the pantry, walking to the local coffee shop for a break from the office, throwing back a brew at the end of the day with colleagues. Companies need to start getting creative. People can live without a salary increase in 2009 but their employers need to do something to help them forget about it.

- KLB

UFC 93 Preview/Prediction

2009-01-14T00:08:00.001-08:00

Two of the best in the game lace 'em up for a match up that is years in the making as UFC mainstay Rich Franklin takes on former PRIDE stalwart Dan Henderson.

Who is Rich Franklin?

He's a mainstream fan favorite thanks to his clean cut good looks and background as a high school math teacher. Holding the UFC Middleweight Title for the better part of 2005-2006 doesn't hurt either. You may also know him as one of the coaches from Season 2 of The Ultimate Fighter reality show or as the guy who knocked Ken Shamrock out on the now famous Ultimate Fighter 1 finale show. He's taken two savage beatings at the hands (and knees) of #1 pound for pound fighter in the world Anderson Silva, but really, what's the shame in that? Since then, Franklin has bulked up back to his more natural Light Heavyweight status and showed he belongs with a brutal knockout of Matt Hamill by liver kick.

Who is Dan Henderson?

He's the former PRIDE Welterweight and Middleweight champion. Along with Randy Couture, he started the Team Quest fight camp in Temecula, CA and produces many top fighters along with his signature Clinch Gear line of fight clothing. He's one of the best wrestlers in mma as evidenced by his participation in the '92 and '96 Olympics for team USA. Though he is only 1-2 since joining the UFC, his two losses came in holding his own against the aforementioned Anderson Silva, and in a close decision in a 5 round war with Rampage Jackson. Needless to say, at age 38 Hendo is still a factor in the elite tier of the fight game.

Who has the better standup game?

Both fighters are well rounded and extremely dangerous on their feet, but they employ different styles. Franklin uses a measured standup style that mixed in effective punches, kicks, and strong knees from the clinch. He is a force from the outside as well as up close. Henderson, on the other hand, has one of the best right hands in the world and isn't afraid to use it. He focuses on throwing that brutal punch as often as he can even at the expense of taking some shots himself. It helps that he possesses arguably the toughest chin in the UFC, having never been knocked out. I give Franklin a slight edge here as I believe that he will be able to take advantage of Henderson's wild swings with a series of counter punches that could take their toll on Hendo.

Who is better on the ground?

Dan Henderson is possibly the best wrestler in all of MMA. There are probably a handful of elite jiu-jitsu guys who might think they could get the better of Hendo on the ground but even they would have their hands full. Rich Franklin is also an excellent grappler with strong, but not quite elite jiu-jitsu ability. His real strengths on the mat are superior ground and pound and a knack for avoiding submissions (he's never been submitted though he's appeared to locked into submission on a number of occasions). In total, I give a slight edge to Hendo as his wrestling is just too good.

Who will win?

So Henderson is amazing on the ground and just really good on his feet and Franklin is great on the feet and just really good on the ground. Either one of these guys would dispatch of 90% of anyone else with relative ease. It takes an elite guy to challenge these two. Both are among the smartest and most determined fighters out there. It's too close to call but since I promised a prediction it'll be Henderson by unanimous decision based solely on his superior chin and mat wrestling acumen. I figure he'll be able to absorb whatever Rich throws at him whilst standing up and will be able to impose his will when the fight goes to the mat. Enjoy the big fight this Saturday on Pay Per View!

A Couple Random Thoughts on a Friday

2009-01-09T10:23:00.000-08:00

Its Friday and I'm bored...

1. Damages Season 2- Previewed in an earlier post, I watched the premier on Wednesday night... My advice, watch this show. You'll like it! Also, the main character Ellen Parsons, played by Rose Byrnes, grows on you and gets hotter every time you watch an episode. She has a freckle under each eye that is close but not even from each other, its her Cindy Crawford. It's kinda of like having an extra private part, men crave it for whatever reason. I am not complaining. Show is well written too, and keeps you on the edge of your seat. I think Rose Byrne got hotter during the time it took me to write that blurb. She's like moss on a rock, just grows on you over time!

2. Female bathroom etiquette- I hear a lot "Mark, make sure you put the seat down when your done!" And I do understand that since men's intestines are shaped differently that we in general have more and worse gas. I can deal with all of that, but ladies please when going number 1, taking a pee-pee, or whatever you may call it, after your done and you wipe your tinkle (too bad you can't jiggle like the boys huh) make sure it hits the water in the bowl. Don't leave it on the beach, make sure it lands in the ocean. The nausea caused on many men when they enter the bathroom and see a golden sponge sitting on the beach is intense. It is just as easy to hit the water as it is for us men to put the seat down. I'll work on it if you do!! "If you want us to put the seat down, make sure your wipe makes the sound!"

3. 24 premier's on Sunday- Make this a game, a drinking game! Put an over/under on how many people die and drink whenever one does. Remember this is a two hour premier. Drink whenever he raises his voice, asks Chloe to upload anything to his PDA, when he describes his simple location as something very complex. Example-- Simple- Chloe I'm in a sewer on Edgar Styles ln.... Complex- Chloeeeeee, I'm stuck in an underwater garbage and water recycling public works structure with water at knee level. Drink if you see Tony Almeda (oops did I ruin a surprise??) Drink and adjust pants whenever his daughter is shown. Drink whenever he says Bomb. Also by the end of the first episode everyone has to pick their "mole" within CTU of the season. Winner gets a free beer from each participant! Make up some own rules, get creative, leave suggestions in our comments section!!

4. Listen to Jim Valvano's speech from the 1993 espy's this weekend. It is sad, motivating and inspirational. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePXlkqkFH6s Gives me chills every time I watch it, it will go down as one of the best speeches of all time, and I know there are many famous others, Gettysburg, I have a Dream, My Fellow Americans, Jimmy V. If you watch and listen to this speech you will get a lot out of it. I've watched it 50 times now and it only gets better. If you don't feel like watching take this out of it, "To me, there are three things we all should do every day. We should do this every day of our lives. Number one is laugh. You should laugh every day. Number two is think. You should spend some time in thought. Number three is, you should have your emotions moved to tears, could be happiness or joy. But think about it. If you laugh, you think, and you cry, that's a full day. That's a heck of a day. You do that seven days a week, you're going to have something special." Try it out... you will be better for doing it!

That's all for now.... look for random thoughts to become a regular post in this blog!

We're Back....Here's to a great 2009

2009-01-09T04:59:00.000-08:00

The four of us at The Suite Spot want to wish you the happiest New Year, and hope that in 2009 you reach all your goals. Our goal is to continue to grow this blog and make it a must as a daily read for you and yours! We've been away for the holiday season, but we are back and ready to go!!! Stay tuned later today for our first post in 2009, the ball has dropped, and now that it has it's time to get that ball rolling!!

--Herbie,Beardo,Tooms, Keith

NFL Playoff Predictions

2008-12-30T04:58:00.000-08:00

All season long I have been providing the Suite Spot faithful with weekly recaps of some relevant information and some well, not as relevant. I have provided my weekly Power of 5, enabling men and yes even women to be one step ahead with NFL knowledge.

Well the regular season is over and there is no reason to live in the past and recap anymore... Without further ado, The Suite Spot brings you its first annual NFL playoff prediction blog.

NFC-

1st round

#1 Giants, bye

#2 Panthers, bye

Wild Card Matchups

#4. Arizona vs. #5 Atlanta-- NFC West Champion Cardinals take on a Falcons team that won two more contests than the Card's during the reg. season. Look for this to be a game fueled with High-Octane offense. Arizona's passing game, and Atlanta's balanced attack will make this an exciting three hours Saturday afternoon. Home field will prove the edge for the Cardinals as I have them winning this one in a close shootout.

Arizona

#3 Minnesota vs. #6 Philadelphia-- If the Eagles show up, they will win this game, if the Philadelphia Soul ( the cancelled Arena Football team, sorry Jaws!) shows up then Minnesota has a chance. Adrian Peterson will need to run over 200 yards for the Viks to have any shot. He won't, Eagles Roll on the road big!

Eagles

Divisional Round

#1 Giants vs. #4 Cardinals- Its unfortunate for Arizona, it really is. Geographically unfortunate that is. This team can't win on the road, and above the mason dixon where temperatures get a bit chilly. Arizona won three games on the road- San Fransisco in September- Warm, St. Louis in a dome, and Kurt Warner's old time haven, and at Seattle staying in the same time zone. They will lose this game for this reason. I don't even need to get into how the GGGG-men are a better team.

Giants

#6 Philadelphia vs. #2 Panthers-- This is where the road ends for the Eagles. The O-line and two-headed Carolina running attack will carry the Panthers to victory. I just can't see a team this consistent losing to a team that is anything but consistent. Sure the Eagles have won when they needed to down the stretch, but they did tie the Bengals. If you can't beat the Bengals in regulation, forget about OT, then you won't beat the Panthers.

Panthers

NFC Championship--

Giants vs. Panthers-- Panthers will avenge their OT loss to the Giants in this one and will do what it takes to beat the GGGG-men. The Giants haven't been the same since Plaxico shot himself in the leg, in doing so he took his team down with them. Panthers will be in the Superbowl.

Panthers

AFC-

#1 Titans, bye

#2 Steelers, bye

Wild Card Matchups--

#5 Colts vs. #4 Chargers-- Two hottest teams in football, adrenaline pumping on both benches. So to me it comes down to your leader and how this adrenaline is used effectively and controlled. Peyton Manning vs. Philip Rivers advantage Manning. Peyton will out duel Rivers in this matchup. Colt DE Dwight Freeney will pressure and disrupt the sloth- ike Rivers in the pocket and Peyton will show off his hall of fame caliber skills.

Colts

#6 Ravens vs. #3 Dolphins-- Defense prevails, and Chad Pennington's arm is as weak or weaker than Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen's bone marrow. Raven's and rookie QB Joe Flacco win this one, in the most boring of any of the wild card weekend matchups.

Ravens

Divisional Round

#1 Titans vs. #5 Colts-- Colts are too hot, winners of 9 straight, and the Titans are underrated. This is going to be a good game, and Keith Bullock and the Titans will be ready. Unfortunately again I think this game comes down to clutch activity and leadership. Peyton vs. Kerry.. Yikes!! Kerry Collins has been great this year, but they won't have enough defense under the hood to stop this attack. Look for Peyton to open the field up and use TE Dallas Clark a lot in this game.

Colts

#2 Steelers vs. #6 Ravens-- Big Ben suffered a concussion on Sunday and should be ready for the game. Who cares! This isn't the year of Big Ben. This is the year of Joe Flacco, and though he doesn't light up the stat sheet. He has plenty of help on defense. Ray Lewis and the best Safety in the NFL, Ed Reed, are going to walk out of Heinz Field on their way to the AFC Championship game to face the old Baltimore Colts. Oh the Irony!

Ravens

AFC Championship--

Colts vs. Ravens-- Unfortunately for Flacco, all good things come to an end, and though they didn't win the division, the Colts will dismember the Ravens and play for their 2nd Superbowl in three years. I can only see how many endorsement deals are waiting on Peyton's agent's desk. If the Ravens are to have a chance, they will need to blister the colts with solid running through the tackles, the colts are too strong on the ends. I don't see this happening . Colts roll!

Colts

Superbowl-- Colts vs. Panthers

Panthers have been too good this season, and I think this is the year they get their franchise's first ring. They are strong on defense, strong on offense, well coached, and have poise, charisma, and this year more will than any other team. It will be an exciting game, and either Deangelo Williams or Jonathon Stewart will walk away with the Superbowl MVP trophy. The team is that strong and will prove it against a tough colts team. Weeks of preparation are better suited to scheme and stop a passing attack, but when you have linemen and RB's who know how to hit holes, that's just a matter of execution. If you can scheme to stop Peyton's attack and execute and grind out the run game you have what it takes to beat this team. Carolina will do this and walk out of Tampa with the Vince Lombardi trophy!!

Panthers

Pandemic is Contagious

2008-12-19T01:50:00.000-08:00

Looking for a last minute gift? The Suite Spot recommends the new board game Pandemic as one of the best and most innovative games to come out in years and the perfect unique holiday gift. The players must cure 4 distinct but equally deadly outbreaks that are rapidly spreading across the globe. The great part about this game is that the players have to work together to find the solution, so playing the game is a fun collaborative experience. It's not all roses and sunshine though, each session of Pandemic is a tense and exciting affair. As the disease spreads organically across the board, the players prospects for winning become increasingly bleak. Even better, the game is really easy to pick up and play, takes only about 45 minutes, and provides a wealth of different game play options and tactics despite its simplicity. The game has been difficult to find for quite awhile now, but has recently been put back into wide circulation. Catch this Pandemic at your local game store for about $30, but you might want to get vaccinated first.

Looks pretty cool, right?

2008-12-19T01:40:00.000-08:00

Don't look cool enough? The Suite Spot officially recommends smoking as the cure for a cool deficiency. You can pick up cigarettes in packs of 20 at most local stores for about $5 a pack. Grab some today!

Shine On!

2008-12-19T00:00:00.000-08:00

Feeling blue this holiday season? Between the holidays and the economy, everybody is a bit off their game. One other element that could be affecting you just might be Seasonal Affective Disorder. That's the effect that the winter season has on our mood, particularly if it reoccurs each year. A variety of factors could be the root of the problem, from the cold weather to family stress. The most common cause is the lack of light that we all suffer from this time of year due to staying inside and the shorter periods of daylight. One sure fire way to treat the winter blues is to add more light to your life. Particularly effective are full spectrum lamps. These are lights that produce a true white light that closely resembles the sun's rays as opposed to dim yellow incandescent lamps or overly harsh fluorescent bulbs. An additional benefit is that the light simply looks better than regular lamps so you'll find it easier and more pleasant to read or do other household tasks. I've had one as my desk lamp for years now and I swear by it. Ask for one for Christmas or make it a nice gift for a loved one who could use some cheering up.

The Wrestler

2008-12-18T18:14:00.000-08:00

Mickey Rourke stars as what looks to be a cross between Jake "The Snake" Roberts and Randy "Macho Man" Savage in one of the best and most interesting movies of the year. In fact, if it wasn't for The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, The Wrestler would rank as my clear cut most anticipated movie of the season. That said, a flat footed tie with the Brad Pitt vehicle is nothing to be ashamed of.

Suite Spot Tip: Don't even look at the Bill Simmons review he posted this week as it includes a spoiler early on that is best left unseen, especially for wrestling fans. You already know the movie is going to own, no need for the review!

This kid is never going to have any friends...

2008-12-18T07:24:00.000-08:00

There's a very good chance you may have already seen this since it went crazy viral on the 'net yesterday, but I couldn't resist talking about it. It's hands down the biggest WTF news item I've read in a quite some time.

Nice family photo, huh? Happy parents doting on their adorable 3-year old son. His name?

Adolf Hitler Campbell.

That's right. Young Adolf's parents named him after the infamous German leader because "no one else in the world would have that name." Well... that's true. Or they could just be white supremacists.

The Campbell's story hit the newswire after a local supermarket refused to put the young lad's full name on his birthday cake. I imagine that supermarket will make the same refusal should the Campbell's ever order one of Adolf's two sisters a birthday cake there as well. Their names?

JoyceLynn Aryan Nation Campbell and Honszlynn Hinler Jeannie Campbell.

Ain't that America?

The cable-free life

2008-12-17T20:53:00.000-08:00

$93.16. That was the total of my last Comcast cable bill. That was September.

Here I am three months later with NO interest in giving them my business again.

If you are anything like my friends or family, you're probably wondering what prompted this shocking decision. Why would a man that has had cable for 25 straight years and still enjoys solid TV programming turn away from this American household staple?

Here goes.

The immediate cause was 18 months of frustrating service with Comcast. Overpriced PPV movies, channel package realignments, and continual rate increases all coupled with crappy customer service got my goat. The only thing that kept me hanging on was the fact that neither DirectTv nor At&t U-verse were available at my residence. They still aren't.

The next factor was the rapidly growing availability of legal, mainstream programming on the web. Hulu, ABC.com, and other sites started streaming high-quality television episodes with limited commercial interruptions at no cost to viewers. Oh, and did I mention that its being done with better picture quality than standard definition programming?

The tipping point (thanks Malcom) came when nbcsports.com streamed the Beijing Summer Olympics...live! This opened my eyes. Why couldn't, and why shouldn't, all content be offered via this medium?!

Give it another year.

Over the past three months I've consumed all of the content a television lover could ever ask for:

Live broadcasts of the presidential debates and the resulting SNL parodies
Live college basketball games of my alma mater
Live NFL games in their entirety and highlights of every almost sport
Sitcoms, dramas, reality tv, music videos, cartoons, and late night talk shows
News
Films

Give it a chance and save yourself some money. Pay off some of that credit card debt. Put an extra gift in someone's stocking. Here, i'll even help! I only ask that you help me find a way to watch my Yankees come September.

The Suite Spot's Guide to a Cable-Free World

Hulu.com: NBC, FOX, Comedy Central, FX, and now films. Try The Office, House, Arrested Development, and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia
ESPN360.com: Live college basketball/fooball and NBA. Stick with the college sports. The NBA is garbage.
NFL.com: Thursday and Sunday Night Football
ABC.com / CBS.com: Most of their network shows. Try Lost and Survivor.
Netflix.com: Films, TV Series. Try The Shield, Weeds, Dexter, The Office
Sprint Phones: Discovery Channel, NFL Network, NFL Radio, ABC, Music Videos

UFC 92 Preview/Prediction

2008-12-16T18:45:00.000-08:00

It's the biggest card of the year and the UFC is not being shy about it. The Ultimate 2008 features not one, not two, but three Main Event fights on the card and the Suite Spot is here to break it all down for you:

Quinton "Rampage" Jackson

vs.

Wanderlei "The Axe Murderer" Silva

Who is Rampage Jackson?

He was the funny and likable star of The Ultimate Fighter reality show who laid out UFC poster boy Chuck Liddell and was on the precipice of major crossover fame before losing his title last spring and subsequently leading the LAPD on a chase through the streets (and sidewalks) of the city. He's facing 3 years of jail time if convicted. Still, his powerful strikes and devastating slams make him one of the most dangerous men in the world.

Notable Wins: Chuck Liddell x2, Dan Henderson, Ricardo Arona

Notable Losses: Wanderlei Silva x2, Shogun Rua, Forrest Griffin, Sakuraba

Who is Wanderlei Silva?

They call him "The Axe Murderer". Do you need to know anything else? Wanderlei (pronounced Van-der-lay) is the former PRIDE Middleweight Champion and 2003 Middleweight Grand Prix tournament winner who basically went 6 years without losing a fight in his weight class. Though a darling of the online fight community, he hasn't quite been the same since Mirko Cro Cop practically kicked his head off in late 2006. His lighning fast knockout of Keith Jardine last spring quieted his critics. Another win against Rampage would put him in line for a title shot.

Notable Wins: Sakuraba x3, Rampage Jackson x2, Hidehiko Yoshida x2, Dan Henderson

Notable Losses: Tito Ortiz, Mirko Cro Cop, Dan Henderson, Chuck Liddell

Breakdown:

Both fighters feature a brutal, aggressive style that begs for a highlight reel knockout. As such, this is probably the most hotly anticipated fight on the card despite not being for a title. Both fighters have something to prove and they'll come out throwing. That said, Wandy holds 2 brutal KO victories over Rampage and that's got to give Jackson pause. Wandy will jump all over any hesitation.

Silva by knockout in Round 2

Frank Mir

vs.

Antonio Rodrigio "Minotauro" Noguiera

for the Interim UFC Heavyweight Championship

Who is Frank Mir?

He's the former UFC Heavyweight Champion who is back from serious injuries due to a car crash in 2004. He's had trouble getting back into shape but finally looks to be back to the form that snapped Tim Sylvia's arm. He is enjoying increased fame due to his recent win over Brock Lesner and his coaching stint on the most recent season of The Ultimate Fighter. He is one of the worlds great submission fighters, especially for a big man.

Notable Wins: Tim Sylvia, Brock Lesnar, Tank Abbott

Notable Losses: Brandon Vera

Who is Minotauo Noguiera?

The Interim UFC Heavyweight Champion is probably the greatest fighter in the history of MMA this side of Fedor. "Big Nog" has fought and defeated a who's who of MMA and shows no sign of stopping. He showed his coaching chops and gregarious personality on The Ultimate Fighter so his popularity is at an all time high. There is no one tougher in the cage or more dangerous on the ground.

Notable Wins: Heath Herring x2, Mirko Cro Cop, Josh Barnett, Dan Henderson, Tim Sylvia, Ricco Rodriguez, Mark Coleman, Bob Sapp

Notable Losses: Fedor Emelianenko x2, Josh Barnett, Dan Henderson

Breakdown:

The winner of this fight will battle Brock Lesner later this year to unify the Heavyweight belt. Both men would relish that chance. These are the two best submission artists in the Heavyweight division, so this one should probably end up as a battle on the ground. Both guys can submit anyone at anytime so it could be over quickly. The Suite Spot believes; however, that this bout will stretch into the later rounds and Mir's conditioning (though much improved) won't hold up to Nog's legendary motor.

Noguiera retains UFC Interim Heavyweight Title by submission in Round 4.

"Sugar" Rashad Evans

vs.

Forrest Griffin

for the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship

Who is Rashad Evans?

He won season 2 of The Ultimate Fighter and is undefeated in 13 fights. A standout wrestler in college, he knocked Chuck Liddell out cold last spring and is also a PC.

Notable Wins: Chuck Liddell, Michael Bisping, Stephan Bonnar

Notable Losses: none, but controversially drew with Tito Ortiz (many say Tito should have won)

Who is Forrest Griffin?

He is the winner of the inaugural season of The Ultimate Fighter, thrusting the UFC into the mainstream with his legendary brawl with Stephan Bonner in the finale. He parlayed that notoriety into two straight bouts against the consensus #1 Light Heavyweight fighters in the world (Shogun Rua and Rampage Jackson). Forrest emerged victorious in both meetings, snatching the title in the process. His wry sense of humor and relentless fighting style make among the the most popular fighters in the UFC.

Notable Wins: Rampage Jackson, Shogun Rua, Stephan Bonnar

Notable Losses: Tito Ortiz, Keith Jardine, Dan Severn

Breakdown:

This is just an amazingly even matchup. Evans possesses superior striking power and wrestling while Forrest has the edge in jiu jitsu and stamina. Both are cabable of formulating great gameplans, but I believe that Griffin's trainer Randy Couture's knowledge of wrestling will negate Rashad's greatest advantage.

Griffin retains UFC Light Heavyweight Title by split decision.

It all goes down on December 27th from Las Vegas. Enjoy!

NFL Brief-- Week 15

2008-12-16T11:41:00.001-08:00

The Playoffs are around the corner, Christmas and Chanukah are also upon us, and teams are shopping for the final playoff spot as we struggle to shop for that final perfect gift. Small sidebar, instead of the mass population trying to be politically correct every year and using the term holiday season for the month of December, lets just call it Christmakah, it is used by few already, has a good ring to it, and satisfies both affiliations without degrading either. Jewish people do believe in Jesus, as just a carpenter, but I'm sure his carpentry skills could create one hell of a Menorah, and yes Christians he would make the oil burn forever if that would make you happy. To be honest in a recession like we are in now, bring on those loaves of bread and endless fish I've read about, we could use it, the second coming couldn't come at a better time. It would help my 401k, feed the hungry, and he would be able to cure Cancer and AIDS, cancer first because you can't do anything about getting it, AIDS second because you should have listened better in 5th grade. Was that a bit of a tangent? (Yes for those of you who think I don't want a cure, I do! Cancer should come first in my opinion!) Where was I? Oh yeah, Football and Playoffs!

NFC- Giants and Arizona have spots wrapped and put under the tree, yet with the way they are playing they are going to be the first ones opened and returned to the store. The Cardinals got smoked by the Vikings, and the Giants look like a college team without having a real running attack since Brandon Jacobs has been hurt. Carolina is the best team in the NFL and should clinch that division. They will beat the Giants next Sunday night. Minnesota looks good in the NFC North. Leaves two wild card spots. I feel the Eagles will win out and take one by having Tampa or Atlanta taking the other, giving either of those teams the other spot. My guess is Atlanta I know a lot of people think I'm done not to include the Cowboys... but that's my opinion and we'll see how it plays out.

AFC- Pitt, Tennessee have it locked, and Denver is very close to doing the same. Leaves the AFC East and 2 wild cards up for grab. The Colts will take one wild card, also watch out for Peyton's team to pull a Giants of last year and win the Superbowl going in as a wild card. AFC east is a mess, three teams dead-locked at 9-5. so many scenarios so I'll keep it short. The Patriots will make the playoffs by winning the AFC east and not because of who is on the field, but who is on the sideline. Coach Belichick will find a way to get his team back to the playoffs

On to this week's Power of 5--

1. Panthers- defense wins, add a running game and strong O-Line you win a lot
2. Steleers- Gutsy win over the Ravens, even if the refs forgot the rules of what constitutes a TD
3. Giants- much like DMX or an old lady, they are Slippin' Fallin' and they can't get up
4. Colts- Yes they are behind Tennessee in their division, but if the two played, Colts would win
5. Tennessee- Kerry Collins has laid off the bottle for the first 12 weeks, maybe he picked it back up

As always, thanks for reading-- comment, become a follower, get involved, http://the-suite-spot.blogspot.com/

Suite Spot Turns 1000

2008-12-15T13:05:00.001-08:00

Thanks to all of our readers... keep it up 2000 will come quicker than 1000 did... we appreciate all your support and we hope to only make visiting this blog more of an experience... thanks again-- Herbie, Beardo, Tooms, Keith... The Suite Spot

C.C. Sabathia Run, Run Sabathia Run!

2008-12-14T13:32:00.000-08:00

C.C. Sabathia is a hell of a pitcher. The Yankees are in dire need of help at the top of their rotation. As such, they have rewarded C.C. with the largest contract in the history of pitchers, $161 million over 7 years.

That said, Sabathia is not without question marks. He is pushing 300 pounds, making him among the heaviest players in the history of baseball. He's only 28 years old, but he has averaged nearly 210 innings per year since 2001. That's an ungodly workload and ensures that there's considerable wear and tear on his arm. He's pitched over 500 innings the last 2 years. That alone makes him virtually unsignable for many teams as even the most durable pitchers (Kevin Brown, Pedro Martinez, etc.) break down after that kind of abuse. In addition, he has a lifetime 7.92 ERA in the postseason, and a history of poor performance against the Yankees chief rivals: the Boston Red Sox.

Nonetheless, the Yankees were under a ton of pressure to get this deal done. They are still smarting from losing Johan Santana (still the absolute best pitcher in the game) to the crosstown Mets. They suffered through a poor year in 2008 due to an aging lineup and lack of depth on the pitching staff, finishing far behind both Boston and Tampa Bay. They absolutely must contend in their first year in the New Yankee Stadium.

Quite frankly, C.C. Sabathia is a big risk to be rewarded with such a large contract; however, for the Yankees he is a necessary addition. He is likely to be placed on a fitness and conditioning program immediately and his workload will be drastically reduced to protect the huge investment. I am confident that the Yankees will come to rue this monster deal as it winds down, but in 2008 they simply had to pull the trigger.

Still, the Yankees might not even be the best team in their own city as the acquisition of elite relief pitchers J.J. Putz and Francisco Rodriguez will make the Mets extremely dangerous. Look out for the Mets in 2009! And if Boston locks up Mark Teixeira? Yikes!

NBC takes gamble; gives Leno 10PM slot

2008-12-12T09:25:00.000-08:00

After what has seemed like endless speculation about whether or not Jay Leno will stay with NBC once Conan O'Brien takes over The Tonight Show in May 2009, the peacock network dropped a bombshell this week:

Leno is staying and they're moving him to 10PM.

For months, Leno has been taking jabs at NBC on his late-night program and for the most part, it seemed like the supposedly disgruntled host would probably end up on either FOX or ABC as a direct competitor to Conan. Not the case - Leno has changed his tune and seems happy to be staying around. The magnitude of this move is immeasurable. NBC is taking a huge gamble and there are a number of things to consider...

By moving Leno into the prime-time 10PM slot, NBC is effectively saying good-bye to original programming in that block. No more hour long dramas means NBC saves money. Considering that Sunday Night Football consumes all of its respective night, that means NBC potentially has to program only 8PM to 10PM, five nights a week. That's a mere 10 hours of original programming, 3 or 4 of which are almost assuredly going to be reality shows. This is an entirely new model for the evening TV landscape.
Despite the fact that Leno is currently a ratings darling, that too may change. Consider what he'll now be going up against - CSI: Miami and CSI: NY are both huge ratings grabbers for CBS and FOX still airs 10PM local news broadcasts on most of its affiliates which often do much better than competitors 11PM broadcasts. Will a traditional late-night audience be around at 10PM?
More than anything though, this unfortunately speaks directly to NBC's faith in Conan O'Brien. The Late Night host admitted this week that much of his success is owed directly to having Jay Leno as a lead-in and he said he was thrilled for that to continue. Personally I can't see how he could possibly be happy about this since it's sure to hurt his numbers as he tries to gain new fans in May. While it's expected that Conan will bring his sizable viewership numbers with him, he's still a much newer, fresher, and younger host, while Leno's style still hearkens back to the days of Johnny Carson - a style many still prefer. Having Leno continue as Conan's lead-in not only takes away from the monumental transition on The Tonight Show, it practically negates it. You may recall the feud between Letterman and Leno when Carson retired. Granted Leno isn't retiring and that's the point - the average American isn't going to view this as anything other than, "Oh hey, all those shows start an hour earlier." Also, consider this: currently Leno leads right into Conan - a HUGE help. Once the regime change takes place, the 11PM news will be in between them. Will Leno's legion stick around for that 1/2 hour? Number will probably drop off.

Of course, lost in all of this mess is Jimmy Fallon, who's taking over the Late Night seat. What does everyone else think though? Is this move a risk for NBC, or a more-of-the-same safe bet?

NFL Brief- Week 14

2008-12-09T08:13:00.000-08:00

Its a good thing I wait until the football week is fully over to write this column. and yes that means staying up till near midnight to watch the Monday nighter. I still don't fully understand why if all primetime TV is driven by the east coast, why must the games start so late. Is it so the east coast can watch the first half but fall asleep before its over, or so that the west coast can get home from work for the second half, and miss how it all started. Games are stories, and we should have the ability to get the setup, the climax and the end of every one. Now I do, but I as others sacrifice sleep which leads to bags under the eyes and other flaws in appearance. I guess that's another argument altogether, but it is apparent that it bothers me. Regardless, this Monday nighter was great. The Carolina RB tandem of Deangelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart teamed up for 299 yards en route to a 38-23 dismantling of the Bucs. Get prepared now, sportscasters will start overusing the saying that is overused every year during December, "Carolina can now control their own destiny." I'm not sure if I like that one as much as "Seal their own fate" but you don't even need to keep your ears remotely open to hear these phrases used in the next three weeks. Ron Jaworski of ESPN said it 10 times in the 4th quarter last night, other's will use their "Jaws" in coming weeks to beat this to a bloody pulp. The fact is, the Panthers (10-3) play the GGGG-Men (11-2) in week 16. They win that game and win out.. they secure home field and a bye throughout the playoffs. There IS still a lot to play for in the remaining 3 weeks. Look at the AFC east if you don't believe me. Three teams at 8-5, divisional matchups still on the table, and with the wildcard most likely to come from another AFC division, winning the east is paramount for the Jets, Patriots, and Dolphins to make the playoffs. Should interesting and equally entertaining!

This weeks power of 5--

1. Giants- Loss to Eagles, but still the best team in the NFL
2. Titans- Decisive victory over the lowly Browns, big tests with Steelers and Colts in weeks 16 and 17
3. Panthers- ~~300 yards on the ground, solid D, big test week 16 vs. GGGGG-Men
4. Steelers- Roethlisberger is an uninspiring/ plain QB who finds a way to win almost every week
5. Colts- its hard not to like a Peyton led team down the stretch

As always thanks for visiting us at The Suite Spot, please comment, tell your friends and get involved!

If Kong is wrong than I don't want to be right

2008-12-07T13:40:00.000-08:00

Recently it has surprised me to hear that many have not heard of the superb documentary "King of Kong". This fantastic film is the best documentary of this decade and one of the best films that I've seen in a long time. It documents the battle between longtime Kong Kingpin Billy Mitchell and newcomer Steve Wiebe over the all time high score in Donkey Kong. It may sound silly to you, but this is one of the funniest, most dramatic, and just plain best movies in quite awhile. If you haven't seen it, find another friend who has also missed out and watch it with them. You'll look like you have amazing taste. It'll be our little secret.

OJ Sentenced-- Finally Justice is Served

2008-12-05T10:44:00.000-08:00

It took more than 13 years, but finally OJ will be seeing hard time... judge Jackie Clark of the Nevada County Court system delivered a moving speech before giving OJ near max time for his armed robbery and kidnapping incident in Vegas this past October. The Suite Spot would like to know your thoughts on the verdict... Please let us know using by posting a comment. I feel to a point that this gives a percentage of the people who thought he was guilty 13 years ago for the murder of Nicole Brown Simpson a sense of relief... OJ is a criminal, and is finally being treated as such.

In his words...

2008-12-04T15:24:00.000-08:00

"Christianity will go. It will vanish and shrink. I needn't argue with that; I'm right and I will be proved right. The Suite Spot is more popular than Jesus now; I don't know which will go first - The Suite Spot or Christianity. Jesus was all right but his disciples were thick and ordinary. It's them twisting it that ruins it for me."

The Stripper from NYC

2008-12-03T15:06:00.000-08:00

Friday night June 27, 2008 was not the typical night for me and a few friends. Myself and two guys were out to have a typical guys night out... Pregaming at the crib, watching the Yankees lose, drinking some bud light 40's, making fun of people we know, and deciding where we wanted to head out to. After a few forties were in the tank, we decided to head to an upper east side bar where young, slutty girls, often still in college with fake id's go to score a slightly older man with a job and the ability to pay for her drinks. Girls who start to mature at 24 and by 25 are somehow ready to settle down forgetting that the ages of 18-23 existed, especially if the doctor gave them a thumbs up once annually. The music at this place is conducive to hooking up, 90's and 80's tunes that everyone who is in or has been to college knows every lyric of, and hip-hop that makes these 18-23 year old's bootys shake and grind on each other and us men. Only two of us were allowed to flirt with the vixens on the floor as the others held true to their girlfriends and got drunk looking.

By 4 a.m. we were sauced, mildly successful and ready to head home. We left the bar and hailed a cab. The cabbie proceeded to drive right past our destination two blocks until we finally got dropped off. That was the single best mistake a cab driver has ever made. He deserves more of a tip we gave him to say the least. Walking back up those few blocks we spotted this blond haired woman aged about 23, wearing a short skirt and walking a little dog. Being as drunk as I was, I decided to ask her what kind of dog she had, when hearing it was a Yorkie I noticed a distinct upstate New York accent and told her we had gone to Syracuse. She was from buffalo and right then knowing her for 30 seconds asked us if we cared for a beer. She was too hot to say no, so we headed up to her 4th floor apartment, walked inside the door. She lived alone in this real nice 1 bedroom joint with many instruments spread across her living room. She handed us a few fresh beers and the conversation started...

I asked , "What were doing at 4:30a.m, just walking your dog, or getting out of work?"
"Just got out of work" She said.
"Ahh, where do you bartend?"
"I'm not a bartender!"

Right then and there I smiled, couldn't contain it really, there is only one other profession that I could think of at the time that would keep a girl like this out so late. She must have been a...

"I'm actually a stripper!" She said as she bent down, me and another friend noticed she was not wearing anything underneath her skirt and immediately believed her. She then asked if we cared to do some drugs, she opened a full box of drugs she said she got from her bouncers. You name it, it was in there, pills, pot, snow. Everything was in there. We passed on them and started joking and talking about our night out and how there were some good strippers in the making at the bar we were at. She explained how she was stripping to make enough money to record her own CD, as she was really an aspiring artist trying to make it big in NYC. (We've all heard that at one time or another) By 5:30 a.m I was awake talking to her, one friend was dead asleep, and the other was playing her instruments (musical). She told us where she was stripping at and told us to come by at one time or another as soon as she got done her tour. Her and her co-workers were going on a month long tour to promote the strip club. She gave me her number and said to keep in touch as we were "now neighbors" and when she was done her tour that we'd get together.

We woke up the next day, laughed it off and checked the strip club's website, sure enough the tour was listed and she was the cover girl. She picked up my first phone call and made plans she later cancelled, second call went unanswered. I guess I'll never see this dame again unless I pay for the experience.

NFL Brief- Week 13

2008-12-02T05:49:00.000-08:00

Hope every member of The Suite Spot faithful enjoyed their Thanksgiving, ate a lot of turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, gravy, pies and whatever your favorite dish might be not mentioned. That said, after attacking my second helping of all the fixings I headed to the downstairs of my grandparents house to watch the traditional turkey day Lions game. It took me only 25 years to figure out why they put the Lions on Thanksgiving. Tryptophan folks, tryptophan!!! This amino acid that has been proven to cause drowsiness is the perfect supplement to a healthy nap for any Lions game. When I turned the game on it was the beginning of the second quarter, the score was already 21-3 in favor of Tennessee. I knew the game wouldn't be close, but please at least let me catch up with family I haven't seen for a year before I turn out the lights. The Lions ARE THE TRYPTOPHAN of the NFL, and its a shame that the people who schedule games haven't figured this one out for any part of the last 15 years, maybe they have been in a sleep-induced coma? Maybe I'm mad, or maybe I just want to enjoy football a little more after such a delicious feast.

I don't even want to give Plaxico Burress any ink here, but is it necessary to have a gun in a nightclub, and own it without a permit. Obviously you shouldn't have a gun in your pocket if you don't know that there is a safety button that will prevent it from "accidentally" shooting yourself in the foot. A player like this should be fired forever. If I, working for any other company was caught doing things criminal, my employer would have the right to can me, the NFL should do it right now, fire Plaxico and use this as a precedence. Criminal behavior should be allowed in the NFL as much as O.J. Simpson should have walked. There is no place for it.

On a lighter side--- this week's power of 5

1. Giants- will find a way to win with/without Plax
2. Titans- running game and defense too strong
3. Steelers- Best run D in the league, and a secondary to go with it
4. Panthers- Stewart and Williams proving to be a deadly 1-2 punch at RB
5. Dallas- With Romo back and D getting healthier, watch out

As always please check out the website, http://the-suite-spot.blogspot.com/ and thanks for supporting

A Monopoly on stupidity

2008-11-30T22:14:00.000-08:00

Here's a quick way to tell if someone is an annoying and foolish lemming: Ask them if they like the game Monopoly. If they say no, ask them why not? They will almost certainly claim that the game simply takes too long. Then ask them if they play with the "free parking scoops the pot of accumulated taxes and fees rule". They'll say yes and claim that it is how everyone plays. Then you say that it's not actually in the official rules and that people just made that rule up over the years. They'll retort that it makes the game much more fun. Wow.

Really? A game who's duration is solely limited by the amount of money in circulation but is claimed to be too long by all is made more fun by putting more money back in circulation? Amazing.

Monopoly is an expertly crafted game and should be played by its intended rules for optimal fun and duration of play. Do yourself a favor and read the rule book, or if you're one of the aforementioned annoying lemmings, then I'll quickly review the most 3 most ignored ignored Monopoly rules.

1. Free Parking is just that. A free space to park your token for one turn. Nothing happens if you land there. Accept this fact and the world will be a better place.

2. There are 12 Hotels and 32 houses. That's it. If you run out then you can't build anymore. This is one of the most powerful strategies for any but the most basic Monopoly player, but rarely does the common player take advantage of it. Create a housing shortage and dominate.

3. If a property is landed on and the player decided not to purchase it outright, the property then goes up in an open auction for all the players (including the one who initially declined to purchase). This rule ensures that all the properties get purchased in a timely manner and speeds the game up significantly. Brilliant, right? Wrong! It's in the damn rulebook but I've never seen a casual Monopoly game use this rule.

In conclusion, please allow the Parker Brothers to rest in peace by playing their game with the proper rules. You'll have alot more fun and you'll be far less annoying to me. Thank you.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2008-11-29T00:27:00.000-08:00

The Suite Spot wishes you and yours a safe and happy Turkey Day!

The Suite Spot Weekly TV Round-Up: 11/16 to 11/22

2008-11-21T13:45:00.000-08:00

I'm about to go on a giant FX rant, so bear with me because right now, it's pretty much the only network on TV where everything is worth watching. In the last Round-Up, I mentioned that both Nip/Tuck and Damages will return in January and dates for premieres have since been announced. Nip/Tuck's WGA Strike-shortened fifth season will resume on Tuesday 1/6 with eight new episodes to go in the season and Damages will follow on the next evening, Wednesday the 7th with its season two premiere. I honestly can't say enough good things about both of these shows and they each deserve your viewership. FX is doing some amazing things for an ad-supported cable network. Check out the latest promo for Nip/Tuck, set to Kanye's "Flashing Lights:"

And speaking of January premieres, ABC has announced that Lost will return a month earlier than expected on Wednesday, January 21st with two new episodes back-to-back. However, the real buzz about the show right now is focusing on the official season five poster released by ABC yesterday. See any clues?

In other ABC news, the alphabet network did some slashing this week and shit-canned three popular, but ratings challenged, series: Dirty Sexy Money, Pushing Daisies, and Eli Stone. All three series were cut short during last year's writer's strike and despite their season two renewals, they just couldn't find an audience. However, one new show is making the grade and ABC has extended freshman drama Life on Mars to a 17 episode order. It's one of the better new shows this season. So check it out and hopefully ABC will give it the back 5 for a full 22.

That's all I got for this week. If you're looking for something good to watch this weekend, then Sunday evening is your night with Entourage (the season five finale) and 24: Redemption (the two hour season seven prequel).

Question of The Day

2008-11-19T09:37:00.001-08:00

11 Weeks through the NFL season, The Suite Spot wants to know who you think will play in and win this year's SuperBowl? Let us know!

NFL Brief- Week 11

2008-11-18T07:44:00.001-08:00

This week I was fortunate enough to have the Patriots play on Thursday, helping me take a weekend off from the sauce, and to focus only one game at a time. Not the usual Sunday, where I head to my normal drinking establishment, order 16 wings, add an order of onion rings and endless pitchers. I take in 5% of every game, play Buck Hunter Safari buzzed at halftime and sleep like a baby after a full day of pigskin. If that last sentence sounded too manly, there are girls at the bar as well. They may gossip about Saturday night, a few of them bring the Sunday New York Times crossword and focus on that, while a few are die hard fans and get involved in the ruckus and some even play Buck Hunter.

Sounds like a great Sunday right, well maybe the Patriots should play on Sunday day more often not on national TV or in prime time. Save that for when Tom Brady comes back. The Patriots are 6-1 in non-prime time non nationally televised games this year, and 0-3 when they are!
The Patriots lost to the Jets on Thursday night, 34-31 in OT on what was supposed to be Matt Cassel's coming out party. ruined by a flawless effort by Brett Fav-re and a 100yd performance by RB Thomas Jones. The Patriots down 24-6 at one point, came back to tie the game with one second left on what could be the catch of the season. Randy Moss caught a pass sealed with perfection in the northeast corner of the endzone to tie the game with only one tick on the clock, only to lose in OT because of poor zone defense, leaving the middle of the field open for the Jets, ultimately leading to a 30 odd yard FG to propel the Jets into sole possession of 1st place in the AFC East for the first time since 2001.

Elsewhere, the Giants were dominate, running for over 200 yards and crushed the ravens, 30-10.

The Eagles and Bengals tied, yes you can have a tie in the NFL. Is it time for Andy Reid to go, I think so, with 4th and 1 with ~~ 1:30 left in overtime, on their own 40 odd yard line, he punted the football and played for the tie/loss. Now they are 5-4-1, when a win is what they truly need in a tough clustered NFC east division. Andy Reid needs a diet, and a new profession as bad as Toyota needs a new ad campaign. (Can we be saved by something besides zero?)

Power of five:

1. Titans- Gutsy comeback win over the Jags, oh and they are 10-0
2. Giants- I'm pretty sure this team is better than last years super bowl champion team, actually I'm positive
3. Panthers- Two RB's over 100 yards this week, a ground attack comparable to UPS
4. Jets- Gusty win over the Pats, big test this week vs. the Titans
5. Cardinals- Kurt Warner will have two WR's with over 1,000 yds and one of them missed 2.5 games with a broken face.

delicious 4 layer nacho dip -- it's easy

2008-11-17T23:25:00.000-08:00

If you're like me then I'm sure you often say, "Man, I could sure go for a delicious and easy to make nacho dip" I think we can all agree that this is a common dilemma. Well fret no longer friends, because we're proud to present the official nacho dip of the Suite Spot. Here's the recipe:

-1 regular size package cream cheese (reduced fat is also ok, but fat free won't work well)

-1 small can of diced green chilies (mild creates the best flavor balance, but go for hot if you're feeling frisky)

-1 two cup bag of grated/shredded cheese (Kraft Mexican blend works well, but any cheddar or jack combo would work nicely)

-1 can chili (vegetarian with beans is the least greasy, but meat can add some good flavor too)

You'll also need a medium-sized and microwave safe casserole dish (one of the regular square ones is good) and something to dip (I prefer Tostitos brand "Scoops" as this is a hearty dish).

Simply spread the cream cheese over the bottom of the casserole dish. Then pour the chili over that, spreading evenly. Next, spread the green chilies evenly. Finally, put the whole bag of cheese on top, covering the surface completely. Pop this into your microwave for 10 minutes at full power and you're in flavor country. Careful, it's hot!

Sink or Swim

2008-11-15T16:33:00.000-08:00

In life’s challenges, we will either sink or swim. Work, sport, game, and politics – they all must end with either success or failure. It’s a harsh but exhilarating fact of life that fuels our competitive nature and keeps us coming back for more.

Outwit, Outlast, Outplay, right Mark Burnett? Survivor's producer couldn't have adopted a better tagline for his hit TV show. But this concept transcends Survivor. We watch bar fights, sporting events, and political campaigns understanding that the competitors will do whatever it takes to win - and there will always be winners and losers. We strive to get accepted into the most prestigious universities and start our careers in Fortune 500 companies to position ourselves for success. This is competition. This is capitalism.

When we lose, we admit defeat. It's back to the drawing board. Sport teams sign free agents, recruit new talent and make trades to get ready for next season. Reality TV rejects return to their normal lives and are sometimes lucky enough to use their recently found fame to pursue new careers. And what about us? What happens when the circumstances cause us to lose our jobs or force us to shut the doors of our businesses? Some seek additional education, some hone their trade skills and polish up their resume, and others explore new ventures.

We we win, we prepare for the challenges ahead - the next season, the next immunity challenge, the next project.

In today's wild financial climate we see unprecedented foreclosures, layoffs, and plummeting 401Ks. Why? In short, banks lent to unqualified borrowers, unions bled corporations, CEOs took exorbitant bonuses, and investors went running scared. Companies like Lehman Brothers, AIG and General Motors failed. For all intensive purposes they should be out of the game. "The Tribe has spoken."

Whether it's AIG, GM, or Fajita Grill, a bailout is unjustifiable. Where's the capitalism? Where's the competition?

Music

2008-11-15T16:10:00.000-08:00

Periodically, I’d like to share a few noteworthy musical selections. Along with citing the artist, title, and music video link (if located), I’ll give a reason why I think you need to check it out. Enjoy!

Wagon Wheel by Old Crow Medicine Show
Because it should have been one of Deadwood’s ending credit themes

Chinese Democracy by GNR
Just because

JCVD is a Knockout!

2008-11-15T01:22:00.000-08:00

Jean Claude Van Damme delivers a devestating performance as himself in this semi-autobiographical tour de force. The film has garnered rave reviews across the board and around the world and the Suite Spot would like to join in endorsing it as one of the best films of the year. Kudos to Van Damme for the soul-baring performance and for such a daring career move... not that he had much to lose at this point. Bloodsport it is not, but JCVD is not to be missed!

UFC 91 Preview/Prediction

2008-11-14T23:33:00.000-08:00

Huge fight Saturday night at UFC 91 as Heavyweight Champion Randy "The Natural" Couture takes on Brock Lesner. This is a pick'em fight according to odds makers, but the Suite Spot will take a stab at predicting the winner.

Who is Randy Couture?
He's the most beloved and decorated champion in the history of the sport. He retired briefly after being finished by Chuck Liddell 2 years ago but then returned to the Heavyweight ranks to snag the title from a heavily favored Tim Sylvia. He then beat down another heavily favored opponent in Gabriel Gonzaga in his first title defense. Legal issues with the UFC kept Randy out of action for over a year but that's all in the past now. At a remarkable 45 years of age, "The Natural" looks to be in great shape and is ready for a new challenger to his throne.

Who is Brock Lesner?
He's the former WWF Champion whose pedigree includes the 2000 NCAA wrestling title. He left the pro-wrestling biz a few years back to try to tackle the NFL. Though he wowed scouts at the combine, he was eventually cut by the Minnesota Vikings. Since then, Brock has turned his attention to mixed martial arts. His UFC debut was an impressive though ultimately unsuccessful bout with former champion Frank Mir. This was followed closely by an utter domination of PRIDE FC veteran Heath Herring. This win silenced many critics who touted Brock's lack of skill and reliance on brute strength. Still Brock has something to prove and will have to take on all comers, starting with Couture.

How can Randy win?
Randy has more experience in big fights than anyone in the game and his gas tank has yet to be emptied. If he's in any kind of shape resembline his last outing, he'll be able to set a blistering pace that would exhaust Brock after a couple of rounds. Randy is no stranger to 5 round title fights, so one would think that the longer the fight goes the more conditioning will come into play. Randy is also renowned for his ability to formulate and stick to an effective gameplan over the course of his fights. One of his trademarks is imposing his will on his opponents with a combination of clinching up against the fence and brutal wrestling takedowns. That could be easier said then done against the massive Lesner, so look for Randy the change up his game a bit with a stick and move boxing style and judicious use of submissions when the fight inevitably goes to the ground.

How can Brock win?
Lenser is a giant! He will enter the Octagon at well over the 265 weight limit while Couture is a relatively small 220 pounds. In addition to this superior size and strength, Brock is also much faster and more athletic than the elder champion. Brock was able to land a devastating right hand in the opening moments of the Herring bout from which Heath was never able to recover. If he can pull a similar moe against Randy, than it could be much the same story on Saturday night. Look for Lesner to try to smother Couture with mat wrestling as he did against Herring. He'll try to lay on top of Couture in an effort to prematurely exhaust him. If Randy has lost any kind of edge in the past year, this strategy may prove successful.

The Suite Spot believes that Randy Couture will retain his title with a submission in the 4th round. Randy's skill and superior conditioning will prove to be too much for Lesner, but Brock will lay quite the beating on Couture in the meantime. So much so, that Randy may never be quite the same after the fight. Meanwhile, Brock will learn from his war with Couture the things he needs to dominate the UFC's Heaveyweight division for years to come. Enjoy the fight!

Bobbin' for life

2008-11-13T21:45:00.001-08:00

If we're not in a merge I think I'm history... even though I teach science. That's a little joke.
-Bob, Survivor Gabon

Bob Crowley is a remarkable man. He's wears every one of his 58 years on his face and yet he competes physically with those at their physical peak. He is clearly devoted to his chosen profession of teaching, yet he is also an accomplished outdoorsman. He has a large and loving family as evidenced by the letters he received from home and he's a friggin' log roll champion!

Then there's Randy Bailey. As self-described in his official bio he's "angry, blunt, mean and sarcastic", and "admits he's a train wreck with no living relatives besides an older brother, from whom he hasn't heard from in years." Wow. Seems like a real winner. However, though he has aged rather poorly in the looks department, he is actually quite the physical specimen given his middle age, regularly equaling or besting the younger cast members in challenges. In addition, he's deftly kept himself safe from tribal council sendoffs with a combination of clever alliances and ingenuity in camp.

Both have seen their best years pass them by yet both succeed in the game. How do they do it? Bob is a machine. Be it in camp or in the challenges, he never stops. You can see this is not just come ruse for the game either, his sinewy body has clearly been put through its paces with years of action and repetition. His natural ability and breadth of skills never fail to amaze. One gets the feeling that Bob would like to win the game as something of a personal test. The money or fame at stake is secondary to the challenge at hand and a loss would be chalked up as an educational experience rather than a disaster.

Randy, on the other hand, plays with a measured style should not be mistaken for lethargy as he has shown to be as strong and agile as any. He is clever and resourceful, as shown with his fashioning of fishing gear from fragments of his glasses. To me, he is reminiscent of a crocodile in that he'll lull you into ease with a lack of activity, then strike in a sudden flurry. His personality around camp certainly turns other off but he makes no apologies for his persona. His competitive spirit has no equal and is that of someone with nothing to lose and something to prove. I believe that he feels that his life would be validated with a win and therefore losing is not an option.

So what can we learn from this? I believe that there are two ways to deal with most situations. The Bob way is to play hard, try your best, and know that even if you fail you can take pride in the fact that you did things the right way. The Randy way is to take an opportunity and grab it by the throat, trying to exploit whatever advantage you can. This could provide an easy path to success, but in the event of failure, you must ask yourself if your course of action was worth it.

These two men are clearly polar opposites in life while producing startlingly similar results in the game of Survivor. The path Randy has chosen is easy to fall into, but results in lots of loneliness, pain, and a resentful attitude towards the world. The path Bob has chosen has left him happy, healthy, and surrounded by loved ones. I respect Bob and envy the honerable way he has lived his live and he is reaping the rewards accordingly. I pity Bob and the fruits of his actions are self-evident.

Think about this when presented with an obstacle in life. While sometimes it may be tempting to choose a Randy-like solution, I think the world would be a better place if more people could channel their inner Bob.

Question of the Day

2008-11-13T10:14:00.000-08:00

What is the best rivalry in college sports? Let The Suite Spot know! Name the sport and the teams involved

NFL Brief - Week 10

2008-11-12T06:14:00.001-08:00

We all knew a girl from high school that was the queen of the class, a member of the "snob" squad, wore the best clothes, was the head cheerleader, and was dating the captain of the basketball team. Girls wanted to be her, and guys wanted to be with her. Flash forward 5-7 years and she couldn't go to/ finish college because she got pregnant on accident, now has two kids, is married only because of those kids, and that head of the cheerleading team frame looks worn and battered. (Yes I knew someone who did and does fit this description) On the other end of the spectrum, you have the academic, not well taken care of and developed girl who had brains, but lacked social skills, reputation, and looks. Someone who wanted to be involved with the social scene, but was not, and was at times an outcast. But with a little fixer-upper, maybe contacts instead of glasses, a good hair cut, and some confidence, and you have a modern day successful beauty who is laughing at said head cheerleader all the way to the bank. Not to mention she is now being chirped at by all the boys from the basketball team. She's the Laney Boggs of the real world. (If you don't know Laney Boggs, do yourself a favor and watch one of the only decent chick flicks with Rachel Leigh Cook starring in She's all That)

10 weeks into the season, San Diego is the team that peaked in high school. They are 4-5, some had them picked to go to/win the super bowl before the season started. They beat the Chiefs this week by 1 pt, mostly because the Chiefs are as miserable at football as my friend Leo at Buck Hunter. Is Ladanian Tomlinson the next Shaun Alexander, dominate the NFL for 2-3 years and two years later be a free agent looking for a one year deal? Please tell me it isn't so LT! Maybe its time for a new coach in San Diego to motivate these stud players. Oh and they are in the second worst division in football.

Conversely, the Arizona Cardinals is this year's Laney Boggs, a goal line stand to stop them from losing to the 49ers, Kurt Warner in the running for MVP halfway through the season, a WR corps second to none in the NFL, and a flashy new RB in Tim Hightower who has "Edged" out Edgerrin James in only 9 games in the league. Yes they play in a weak division, but when is the last time Arizona hosted a playoff game, I'm not even going to bother wikipedia for the answer! It will happen this year!

This week's Power of 5

1. Titans- Still undefeated still #1
2. Giants- Dominating the most competitive division, is Eli ready to repeat?
3. Panthers- Great defense, and a running game only getting stronger
4. Patriots- learning how to win w/out brady = eating clock like it's Tiramisu
5. Redskins- if Clinton Portis is healthy, they will be dangerous

As always, please post your comments let The Suite Spot know what you're thinking!

What a Time We Live In

2008-11-10T06:18:00.001-08:00

In these tough financial times, the plebeian masses can always turn to one singular form of salvation: the Dollar Value Menu. Where else but this latter-day horn of plenty can one gorge oneself for so little money. As recently as the mid 90's, a double cheeseburger from McDonald's would cost you upwards of $3. Now it is only a buck. Factoring in inflation, the savings are obscene. So while the price of everything seems to be going up while wages stagnate and the market crashes, find solace in an American classic... for just a dollar.

The Suite Spot Weekly TV Round-Up: 11/2 - 11/8

2008-11-07T08:45:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the newest weekly column here at The Suite Spot, where I'll be bringing to you the week in TV. A sort of "in case you missed it" crash course covering anything boob-tube related. If it's on TV, then I probably watch it.

If you have any sense of television history, then you've probably heard of a little cartoon called The Simpsons. This past Sunday marked the show's 19th "Treehouse of Horror" special, and while I personally think they usually suck, this one had an extremely relevant highlight - a spoof on the Emmy winning/critically-acclaimed AMC drama Mad Men. If you aren't watching this show, you should be. Now. Anyway, The Simpsons beautifully re-created the entire opening sequence (frame for frame) from Mad Men. Take a look:

Moving on to Monday night Prison Break made an effort to shake things up a bit by killing off original cast member Brad Bellick (played by Wade Williams, pictured above). This entire season has been much better as the show has been re-created into a heist drama, but Bellick's presence has been a non-factor. The idiotic redneck we grew to love over the first three seasons has played no role in this season's machinations and frankly, it seems to me that his death was inevitable from the get-go. I don't see it impacting the remainder of the season at all.

On to Tuesday night, nothing new was on save for the Presidential Election, which brings me right into Wednesday night. Anyone still watching South Park? For the most part, I try to catch it, but it's hard to figure out when episodes are new since seasons always tend to take off months at a time. However, I caught this one and I'm glad I did. Kudos to Matt Stone and Trey Parker because they must have worked their asses off following the announcement of Obama winning late Tuesday night. The duo re-cut the entire episode all day Wednesday, even going so far as to included exact phrasing from Obama's acceptance speech into the episode. While it's clear that much of the episode is ambiguous and would have worked had McCain pulled off a victory, it's still impressive to think that whole chunks of the episode were prepped mere hours before it aired. You can see the whole episode at South Park Studios.

Also on Wednesday night, FX freshman drama Sons of Anarchy continued with its trend of getting better and better each week. Embroiled in a cat and mouse game with the ATF, I'm really looking forward to see how Clay and Jax can get SAMCRO out of this mess. I'm especially impressed with Agent Stahl (Ally Walker, pictured). She's been relentless in her pursuit of the club, but after her run-in with Otto at prison, I don't see it ending the way she wants. In other FX news, the network announced this week that both Nip/Tuck and Damages will return in January. Here's the latest promo for Damages:

Moving on to Thursday night and Grey's Anatomy, ABC suits dropped a bombshell this week when they announced that last night's episode, "Rise Up," would be Brooke Smith's last. Apparently execs at the Alphabet network weren't too happy about Erica's (Smith) lesbian storyline with fellow doc Callie Torres (Sara Ramirez). Personally, I didn't care for the plot too much either but it is November sweeps. However, was it really necessary to fire Smith? Anyone else see it? To be honest, her exit wasn't too bad. Considering everything that happened (her lesbian epiphany coupled with Callie's reluctance and the whole Denny Duquette mess), I thought it made sense.

One parting shot - FOX released its mid-season schedule this week, and after a year of delays, 24 is finally scheduled to return with its seventh season with the traditional two night, four hour premiere on Sun. 1/11 and Mon. 1/12. In case you haven't seen it yet, here's the latest promo:

So what does everyone think? Good column? Let The Suite Spot know in the comments! Especially if there's something big you think I missed!

Question of the Day

2008-11-06T08:02:00.001-08:00

This year it is probable that one of the two best college football teams does not play for the championship. How do we solve the BCS conundrum?? Let The Suite Spot!!

NFL Brief- Week 9

2008-11-04T07:57:00.001-08:00

Gonna make this one quick today as everyone should be out voting, and watching the precincts report, percent by percent.

Small sidebar, but why is 47% reporting so much more exciting than 46% reporting. I find it extremely exciting but I don't even know why. I will rush back and forth from the TV tonight making dinner just to make sure I don't miss that extra percent, call it kiddish, or maybe I have ADD, but I watch for the extra percent.
Anyways...

Quote from a basketball teammate of mine last night during a timeout, " Okay guys, lets treat this like McCain and the election, according to the polls we're down 15 and our time is running out, lets comeback and win this thing."

Maybe that's what Marvin Lewis said before the Bengals picked up their first win of the season, my guess it sounded a little more like, "Guys if you do like me at all, try harder so I can have a job a little bit longer." Whatever variation was said, the Bengals upset the under-performing Jaguars to pick up their first win of the season. It was good to see the lowly Bengals get a win, only to have the coach start talking about making a playoff run. Lewis said in the post game, if we win out guys, we have a shot at the wild card. Are you kidding me? I also have a shot at having child with Britney, but the chances are as slim as the Olsen twins. But you can't fault optimism, you can only appreciate it... to a point!

Elsewhere a distinction between the league's elite and the wannabes is becoming clearer after week9. Leads us to this week's Power of 5.

1. Titans- Learning how to win close games helps win Superbowls 19-16 OT win vs. Packers. Being undefeated halfway through the season lands you #1
2. Giants- Dismantling of the Cowboys last week, big test next week on the road vs. the red hot E-A-G-L-E-S
3. Panthers- Idle last week, here's hoping no- one got in a late night incident after leaving any form of a club
4. Steelers- Big Ben hurt, Parker hurt, Miller hurt, Defense, healthy as a mule!
5. Cardinals- Yes that's right, Cardinals. Don't look now, but Kurt Warner is a valid MVP candidate

As always, you can read more at The Suite Spot, http://the-suite-spot.blogspot.com/ comment, become a follower, make it a website you visit daily!

Question of the Day

2008-11-03T12:22:00.000-08:00

Sticking with the food theme, Nacho Cheese or Cool Ranch Doritios? Let the Suite Spot know!

Time for Some campaignin

2008-10-31T07:04:00.000-07:00

JibJab.com provides this hilarious video about our candidates...

http://sendables.jibjab.com/sendables/1191/time_for_some_campaignin#

Enjoy, The Suite Spot

Question of the Day

2008-10-30T10:46:00.000-07:00

Favorite type of girl scout cookie? Just ate a Thin Mint and it was tasty... let the Suite Spot know!

NFL Brief- Week 8

2008-10-29T06:36:00.000-07:00

NFL Brief Week 8

You know when you get that really bad hangover, the one that doesn't go away after one day one. The one that drags for a few days maybe even a week. Your body just feels lethargic, your mind empty, and your motivation in shambles. That's what we call a bender, when you can't rebound after a one day hangover, you are experiencing a bender, all the bread and carbs can't help you, only time. The Lions and Bengals have been on a bender since Sep. 7th. Sure they've both had there fair share of "shots". Bengals QB Carson Palmer is hurt leaving them with a backup from Harvard, oops. The Lions traded their #1 WR in Roy Williams to the Cowboys. At least Detroit tried to build for the future by taking three top round picks from Dallas in this trade, but their senior management only drafts WR's and doesn't realize there are other positions that help teams win games. What good is a RB after all if he has no Offensive line/ TE to block for him.
The Lions defense shows up absent on the attendance card, and the Bengals D plays like a first grader who gets held back because his skills don't improve to a second grade level. Ask the Titans why they are 7-0, because they play tough defense which creates turnovers and/or good starting field position. They have allowed a league low 87 pts this season compared to Cinci's league high 217 and Detroits 212.

There is a chance, and a good one at that these two teams go defeated for the entire season.
Lions remaining schedule- @ Bears, Jags, @ Panthers, Bucs, Titans, Vikings, @ Colts, Saints, @ Packers
Bengals remaining schedule- Jags, Eagles, @ Steelers, Ravens, @ Colts, Redskins, @ Browns, Chiefs

Its a shame the Bengals play the Chiefs the last game of the season, because if they didn't Rodger Goodell should have cancelled the Lions Vs. Packers and Bengals game and had first ever "Toilet Bowl" between the Lions and Bengals. It would be the only time anyone might tune in ON PURPOSE to watch these teams play. A few days ago my blog, http://the-suite-spot.blogspot.com/, I asked which team will win a game first, Lions or Bengals, and this response was classic: "Lions. According to wikipedia, a lion would kick the crap out of a Bengal. Thus, the hapless lions get my vote."

Who says long snappers aren't important- Did anyone watch the Giants vs. Steelers game on Sunday, the highly touted matchup of the 5-1's. Where Steelers long snapper Greg Warren tore his ACL, backup snapper goofed the snap on an ensuing punt leading to a game tying safety, and subsequent TD helping the GGGGG-men Steel the game from Pittsburgh, 21-14. Next time someone tells me a bullpen catcher isn't important....

Undefeated team- Titans
Defeated only teams- Lions, Bengals

Please check out, comment, become a follower of http://the-suite-spot.blogspot.com/ its like following a band before it gets big, and then when it does you can say," I knew them When"

Fashion Faux Pax

2008-10-28T13:16:00.000-07:00

Last night I went to a Coldplay concert... solid show by the way. A lot better live than on a studio cut album. Either way, I tailgated pretty heavy, enjoyed a few frothy adult beverages. Drank the finest of beer in Pabst Blue Ribbon. (Hey it is good after the 3rd one or so) Was hand-fed a few Doritos and Svedka shots and proceeded into the show. After enjoying the show, we headed back to the car where I had a chicken cheddar sandwich from Lenny's (a delectable NYC sambo shop) waiting for me to devour and help cure what was to be and is a daring hangover. So I forgot to eat the sandwich, woke up a bit buzzed for work, threw on my black dress pants, arrived at work only to have a co-worker tell me I was wearing navy blue socks. I guess you can never be to careful or sober for that matter.

Question of the Day

2008-10-28T13:10:00.000-07:00

Who would you take #1 overall in a NBA fantasy draft? Let The Suite Spot know by posting a comment!

Question of the Day

2008-10-27T09:21:00.000-07:00

Which team will get Win #1 first, The Bengals or the Lions? Let the Suite Spot know!!

This pear

2008-10-26T22:42:00.000-07:00

...tasted awful. What a waste of money.

Archer Farms hits the mark

2008-10-26T21:53:00.000-07:00

If you're like me then you have difficulty getting your daily dose of fresh fruits and vegetables. I'm always looking for ways to more easily integrate more of my FDA prescribed 5 a day. Recently, I was given a case of Clif Kids Organic Twisted Fruit Rope. Each one is a full serving of natural fruit and I must tell you that they were delicious. I quickly ran through my supply. Unfortunately, when I went to buy replacements, I found that they were about a dollar each. That's too much for a tiny (albeit delicious) fruit rope. So began my quest to find a suitable replacement. After some struggle with various bad tasting and rubbery fruit snacks I've finally found the answer and it's right at your local Target. Archer Farms Organic Real Fruit Strips have found the perfect balance between texture, flavor, and price. Only $3 for a box of 10 strips brings this product in line with fresh fruit prices, and while it doesn't beat fresh, sometimes you can't make it down to the market. Moreover, this product is an apt replacement for sugary fruit snacks such as Fruit Rollups. The Suite Spot would like to officially endorse this quality product.

Jon Gruden--oops

2008-10-23T04:55:00.000-07:00

Jon Gruden when asked on the world series, " I think the Devil Rays will win the series" Earth to you Jon- The Devil was stripped from the name a year ago. No body still says I hope the Washington Bullets win tonight, its the Wizards. Being politically correct is the new thing, and I totally don't agree with it. I want the days of the Bullets, Devil Rays, and theRedman. Its too bad that's not how it is now. But Jon if you're coaching football in a city that's baseball team is trying to win a championship, at least sound like you know a team plays baseball in Tampa Bay. It took everyone outside of Tampa 10 years, thats long enough... be a leader!

World Series Post

2008-10-22T14:10:00.000-07:00

So it all comes down to this, the Fightin' Phils and the Devil-less Rays. Put your chips on the table, its time to go all in!! Here at the Suite Spot we think a few things, the AL is a better league top to bottom, than the NL, look at interleague play where the AL smoked the NL again, as they do every year. All-Star game, no matter how much credit you give this game, the AL is dominant in the mid-season meeting of stars.

The Phillies- bring more experience, a proven lineup with two MVP's in Howard and Rollins, and Utley who is a top 5 MVP candidate every year when healthy. You have x-factors on this team, Victorino, who gets a big hit only when I watch him, bats .175 when I don't, J. Werth is a scrappy player who plays with heart is a good on defense and has a kid's winning mentality. You have Pat "the babe" Burrell, he will have one clutch hit this series I'm calling it now. The rotation- Hamels and Myers, Hamels an outright ace, and Myers has ace stuff when he keeps his head on straight. Behind them you have Blanton and Moyers, will give up some runs but keep you in the game. If the Phils can get 6-7 innings out of their starters, kiss the rays goodbye. Madson and Lidge are dominant, Lidge hasn't blown a save opportunity this year and I don't see it happening anytime soon especially not in this series, he's locked in and ready to dominate.

The Rays- youth drives this team, and also brings it success. B.J Upton has been powerfully stellar and could is one HR away from tying Carlos Beltran's 8 HR's in a postseason. Evan Longoria is a shoe in for AL rookie of the year (yes I had him on my fantasy team even though he wasn't in the majors until a month into the season) Don't get me wrong they do have some veteran leadership as well, Carl Crawford, a healthy Rocco Baldelli, Carlos Pena. This team is quick and can beat you with small ball or the power shot, a loaded young team. Their rotation is filled with great young talent, Kazmir, Shields, Sonnanstine,and ALCS MVP Matt Garza. Lefty David Price was also lights out in the bullpen and has dominate stuff, 96-98 mph on his heater, and a slider that will have the phillies guessing.

This is going to be a fun series, with Lefties Kazmir, Sonnanstine, and price giving problems to a Phillies lineup that holds power from the left side of the plate, Utley, Howard, both bat from the left side and will have to combat that. In the end the Phillies depth and experience will prove to much for the Rays in what will be a lowly rated, but very exciting World Series

The Suite Spot says----- Phillies in 7, The wait for a title for the last 25 years will finally come to an end!

Let us know your thoughts!!!

NFL Brief- Week 7

2008-10-22T05:38:00.000-07:00

Finally some separation between the haves and the have nots. Week 7 showed us that we do have some powerhouses in this league and there is a clearer picture now of who is a playoff contender and who will not be playing past December. Yes that inadvertently rhymed! Near halfway through the season, we have more teams looking to get in the playoffs, 19 at or above .500 but 6 teams who are a cut above.

1. Titans- Kerry Collins is playing sober this season
2. Giants- Confident Eli, could be scary if Plaxico is ever 100%
3. Steelers -Put anyone at RB and the line will get them room to run
4. Bills- With their smarter QB back from being concussed, Stanford grad Trent Edwards helping the Bills Circle the Wagon
5. Panthers- Swarming pass rush, steady backfield, and a healthy Del"homme" ("the man" in french)
6. Bucs - Team buying into Gruden's hard nose D philosophy + Jeff Garcia married to a former playmate = Great Success

Interesting game of the week-- Jets at Raiders. "The Icing on the cake" Interim Raiders Coach Tom Cable's first game was nothing short of a coaching experience. With a 3 pt lead in the final seconds of regulation, Jay Feely hit a 52 yard field goal that doinked off the post and was no good. Great for Oakland right, escaping with a close win, not so fast? Cable called for a timeout to Ice the Jet kicker's veins before the ball had snapped. So Feely got one more shot and put it through the uprights sending us into OT. Luckily for Cable, he has the strongest kicker in the league in Sebastian Janikowski who hit a Oakland home record 57 yarder at the end of overtime to solidify the new coach's first win.

Undefeated teams-- Titans

Defeated only teams-- Bengals, Detroit

Question of the week-- What's worse, playing for the Lions in a broken down city, or playing for the Bengals? Please comment and let us know!!!

NFL Brief- Week 6

2008-10-14T10:55:00.000-07:00

"On this team, we fight for that inch, On this team we tear ourselves, and everyone around us to pieces for that inch. We Claw with our fingernails for that inch, cause we know when we add up all those inches that's going to make the difference between winning and losing, between living and dying"-- Al Pacino

Jim Haslett and Gary Kubiak may have both used this speech to pump up their players this weekend, as the Rams and the Texans both got their first win of the season by getting that inch. The Rams upset the Skins 19-17 behind Josh Brown's last second kick, and in Houston, QB Matt Schaub noticed the dolphins line up with no linebackers on 4th and 2 and scampered in the goal line to help the Texans edge the Fins 29-28.

Elsewhere, Matt Ryan continued his bid for Rookie of the Year with an impressive show of leadership. The Atlanta "Peregrine" Falcons played a stingy Bears defense and emerged victorious over the bears on a last second 48- yard FG by Jason Elam. Down late, Matt Ryan who was 22/30 for 301 and a score, executed the 2-minute drill as a veteran would and drove the falcons down into field goal range to set up the winning kick. The Falcons are 3-0 at home and are tied for the divison lead at 4-2.

Undefeated team- Titans

Defeated only teams- Bengals, Lions

Found in Translation

2008-10-10T23:06:00.000-07:00

I am tolerant of movies that have ambiguous endings. I feel that sometimes what a film has built cannot be adequately concluded on screen and therefore may best be left to our imaginations. That said, I am always curious of what the filmmakers had in mind for their characters. One such movie is Lost in Translation, the overrated but nonetheless very well made and entertaining Bill Murray/ Scarlett Johansson feature from 2003. At the end of the movie the two stars embrace while Murray inaudibly whispers in Johansson's ear. He seems to be actually saying something, but it just isn't possible to make out what it is without some kind of audio enhancement. Luckily, that's just what the video below features. It seems legit to me and if you haven't seen it yet then it really adds to the movie and solves the mystery quite aptly. Be warned, if you don't want to shatter the film's mystique, don't listen!

NFL Brief- Week 5

2008-10-07T08:22:00.001-07:00

Parity- n. equivalence; correspondence; similarity; analogy. NFL 2008 season- filled with parity. Through 5 weeks there are 17 teams in the NFL with a .500 record or better. There are seven more that are 2-3 and still in playoff contention. Thats 24/32 (75%) of all teams still have a good chance at making a bid for the Superbowl and the Lombardi trophy. Sure there are a few slugs, Kansas City, Cincinnati, St.Louis, Detroit, Houston, but this season is wide open and players are working harder than ever to get to the playoffs.

Lots of great games this week-- as I spent them at a bar with bottle in hand, head turning to every TV with every ooh and aahhh and every annoying Dolphin fan singing this god awful chant everytime they scored, got a first down, went to commercial, ate a wing, basically on any human movment they started this chant, "Miam Dolphins, Miami Dolphins, Miami Dolphins #1..." real intuitive and equally creative.

The Atlanta "Peregrine" Falcons finally beat a good team, and maybe just maybe we can call them a reputable opponent. The Falcons clipped the Packers in a shootout 27-24. Aaron Rodgers who many people benched in their fantasy leagues due to concern over his sprained shoulder, played and played well. He tossed 3 TD's on over 300 yards, but it wasn't enough to beat Matt Ryan, Micheal Turner and the Falcons who improve to 3-2 on the year.

Undefeated teams- GGGG-Men and the Titans at 5-0

"When you Were Young"

2008-10-06T07:02:00.000-07:00

Remember when baseball was just baseball, you'd put on your uniform, make sure your long socks are up to your knees, put on your cap, grab your glove and have mom or dad bring you down to the field. Those were the days where if you went 1-4 you may have been disappointed on your three unsuccessful at-bats, but boy if that one hit didn't mean the world to you! You were so proud that you would talk about it the rest of the night over a slice of pizza with mom and pop and your older brother would be proud of you. Days when you ran out every play, scrapped for every ball in your direction and had an urge to play catch and practice whenever you could. Thats the same feeling I still get when watching the Rays and Red Sox play this postseason. Plainy put, THESE GUYS PLAY AS IF THEY'RE NOT GETTING PAID. With the exit of Manny Ramirez earlier this season to the Dodgers, the Red Sox fueled by MVP candidate Dustin Predoia and the critically acclaimed Red Sox Nation, and the Rays in their franchises first ever playoff appearance play with emotion, fire, and most importantly HEART. When these guys lace em' up its as if they are going to play little league or babe ruth, only when they make sure their long socks are up to their knees, there is a sellout crowd who also got dressed in team gear with a little less skill, a few more beers in them, but the same size heart. The MLB adage goes-- There's only one October-- thank god for October

Big Blue Makes Due

2008-10-05T23:43:00.000-07:00

There are some who claim that the so-called best team in the NFL is the team with the best record. Others would say that it's the team who is playing the best football right now. Still others would insist that until the defending Super Bowl champion loses a game, then they are the team to beat. Luckily, one team has cleared up this debate. Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 New York Giants are, for the first time in the Super Bowl era, the clear-cut best team in the NFL. Breathe that in. Now hold it. Hold it. Now let it out. Feels good.

Keep in mind the Giants' ridiculous 44-6 romp over Seattle came without perhaps the team's best player, mercurial wide receiver Plaxico Burress, who was suspended for breaking team rules. Nonetheless, the Giants attack was a varied and dominant as it's ever been. Now, this string of success and good fortune is bound to run out, but on this day, the entire NFL looks up at Big Blue. Carl from Aqua Teen Hunger Force always says that the Giants are #1. At this moment, he is right.

EliteXC's Kimboner

2008-10-05T23:00:00.000-07:00

Ding dong the myth is dead. The unbeatable brawler is exposed as being nothing more than a street thug with a glass chin thanks to unheralded and undersized Seth Petruzelli. The truth is that most anyone in the know already had written off Kevin "Kimbo Slice" Ferguson some time ago. Be it with his uninspired and controversial win over James Thompson on CBS in May or even 5 or so years ago from his street fight loss to Boston police officer Sean Gannon, who subsequently got his shot in the UFC but couldn't hang with even the weakest of competition. Nonetheless, Kimbo had MMA legend Bas Rutten in his corner and made a bunch of entertaing bare-knuckle brawl videos on YouTube, so he was an intriguing wildcard who suddenly had main event status due in no part to his fight record. That was all over with the minute luckless faded star (and former WWF Intercontinental Champ) Ken Shamrock pulled out of the scheduled main event with an unfortunate cut from last minute training. This forced EliteXC (with a Kimbo no-show meaning a probable end to the entire company) to push the untested but talented K-1 and Ultimate Fighter reality show veteran Petruzelli into the spotlight. If Kimbo had won, it would have been a testament to his toughness and courage to take on and defeat an opponent that he was unable to prepare for. As it stands, Kimbo seems to be a victim of his own marketing. He looks like a badass, he's an inspirational story, and maybe he can regroup and cobble together a fight career yet, but the Kimbo we thought we knew is no more. It's too bad, since the rest of the televised fight card was pretty excellent, but the only thing people will take away from the night was that Kimbo bit the dust in a big way.

Survivor Gabon...

2008-10-03T11:34:00.000-07:00

Survivor is back, and this time in earth's last eden, Gabon Africa. There is a vast array of personalites, ranging from a bow-tie wearing physics teacher, Bob, to a retro pin-up model named Sugar. Three episodes in, we have seen some very solid challenges, a new twist on exile island, where you have a choice to find the hidden idol by opening a clue, or chill out in comfort during the night by choosing the apple. If you aren't watching or have given up on the show in season's past, now is the time to get your self back in the saddle and ride this one for the fall season.

Couple small things that stand out this season-

Great theme music- african beat, steel drums, kinda makes you feel happy just watching the show.
Atmosphere- last time the show was in Africa, Season 3, it was in a boring desert with no water, bad challenges, only a few worthy people, and little to no excitement. This year we have more of a jungle, wet, swampy landscape with hills and greenery all over.
People- We will have arguments, we have GC, a former thug turned maintanence supervisor who quote is a "grown man." Your every season of survivor old woman/man, Gillian, the wierd dude, Randy a Wedding Videographer who will never get married. Tis the irony of Survivor folks. We have an asian video game professional, enough said. The guy hasn't been kissed since high school, and if you think I'm lying We have your typical as well, a few lawyers, one gay, a doctor, a physics teacher, sales rep, and your token surivor hot waitress, Paloma. The show is stacked!

Host- Jeff Probst, thank god that Survivor took this guy away from Rock N' Roll Jeapordy. He not only is best show on any running TV show, reality or other, he is making a case to become one of the best of all time. He is crisp, wins Emmy after Emmy, asks the show contestants perfect questions that always stir the pot, and the ladies love him, including most of the ladies.

Now that i've been nice-- There are a few glitches with the show that Why do they always show dangerous animals around the tribe when they are never really that close. They recently showed an aligator in water and then immediately cut to Sugar wading in the water. The gator was probably taped in a different river at a compeletely different time. Sure its supposed to make you scared and get your adrenaline pumping, but honestly CBS after 20 seasons, we get it. They have showed the same ape like animal running to the end of the range each episode, like I said, we get it. I guess just one more thing, when deciet is about to happen on the show, find some other way to hint at it besides showing us a snake right before the grand deception.

Other than that, keep up the good work-- show is money and there's a reason we're almost 20 seasons deep in it and always is top 15 in ratings

MLB Rd. 1 Predictions

2008-10-02T16:07:00.000-07:00

With the October Classic officially underway... lets look at the Divisional Series matchups and hear the SuiteSpot's predictions...

A.L
White Sox vs. Rays- Rays in 4. Call it youth over old age, call it new blood over blood clots. A tired White Sox team that had to play 163 games just to make it to the playoffs will not have the gas in the tank necessary to get past the Devil-less Rays. Carl Crawford is back and claims he's "100% ready to play and could prove to be the x-factor in this 5 game set. Rays Pitching staff of "Big Game" James Shields and Scott Kazmir will outduel Mark Buherle and Javier Vasquez.

Red Sox. vs Angels- Red Sox in 4. The Yankees have struggled to beat the Angels lately and the Angels have struggled to beat the Sox all season as well. They have lost to them on 9 straight occasions, and this series will prove to repeat recent history. I'll say this now... the Sox will win one game in Anaheim before returning to Fenway to finish off the 100 win Angels. Put it plainly, the angels will need exceptional pitching to stop the potent Sox lineup and an Angel on their shoulder to get by the 10th position player in Boston, the diehard Red Sox Nation

Look for two A.L East teams to meet in the A.L.C.S late next week.

N.L.-
Dodgers vs. Cubs- Cubs in 5. While the yankees golf, Joe Torre will still be working! This series will go farther than most people are expecting. Joe Torre will do his best to lead his team to the next round, but ultimately will fail to the Cubbies at Wrigley Field in the final game of the series. Too many weapons, Zambrano, Dempster, Wood on the mound; Soriano, Lee, Ramirez at the dish will overpower Manny Ramirez and company.

Phillies vs. Brewers- Phillies in 4. C.C. Sabathia has got to be gassed, pitching on 3 days rest for 3 straight starts before the playoffs will have this stud tired and vulnerable to a potent philly led offense. Need I say more... don't think so..

check back for L.C.S predictions...

Escalator Etiquette...

2008-09-30T08:01:00.001-07:00

Growing up in New Hampshire I knew of only four escalators. Two at the Mall of New Hampshire in Manchester, and the other two at the Rockingham Mall in Salem. Riding them was like a 15 second amusement park ride. It was your chance to run down them and beat your buddy, your chance to run up a downward moving escalator to show your youthful brawn and very youthful brain. Times have since changed for me, and now escalators are a mode of transportation for me in New York City. Thousands of us use them every day, and they are treated like a highway. If you are on the right side of the escalator you respect the right to standstill and relax, and by relax I don't mean pass wind on the pour soul behind you because you had chinese for lunch. The left "lane" is the passing lane with hurried bodies rushing up and down. And when people use the left lane for the standstill and create a "road" block people get ticked and rage semmingly escalates, pun fully intended. You hear small talk, "Oh they must not be from around here!", or "Look at that old bag slowing us up!" Folks lets treat this mode of transport like the pedestrian highway it is. and please always remember to signal before changing lanes or passing gas.

NFL Brief- Week 1

2008-09-30T07:06:00.000-07:00

Well the first week of the NFL season couldn't have been much better... especially if you are a fan of any other team other than the Patriots. Crushing news to a team that won 18 games and lost one big one as their leader, Tom Brady, suffered a season ending knee injury. Career backup Matt Cassel, who has been a backup ever since leaving high school stepped in and helped the defending AFC champions to a 17-10 victory over the Cheifs.

Brett who?-- while the Jets welcomed Brett Favre en route to a one touchdown victory over the Dolphins, Aaron Rodgers started his tenure as the Packer's QB with a primetime performance. A very economical 18-22 passing , 2 TD's and one Lambaeu Leap helped the Pack beat the division rival Vikings in our first monday nighter of the season. Green Bay faithful can start buying #12 jerseys with some confidence now. The second MNF football game proved to be Royal coming out party, Eddie Royal. The rookie from VA tech hooked up with Jay "chicken" Cutler for 146 yds and a TD as the Broncos decorated the Rrrrraiders 41-14.

NFL Brief- Week 2

2008-09-30T07:05:00.001-07:00

Week 2 brought us some suprises and some great matchups...

Game of the week- Eagles Vs. Cowboys This game was on the menu but should have been treated as monday's special. This entree showed a whole lot of offense, akick return for a TD, lack of Defense, and a rookie mistake of near epic proportions. Terrell Owens stole the show with 3 catches for 89 yards, 2 scores, and a 2 bird flapping endzone taunts as the Cowboys bested the Birds, 41-37. Eagle rookie Desaean Jackson, WR out of Cal showed his age and young arrogance on what looked to be 60 yard TD catch until a Wade Philips red flag showed that the young buc threw the ball out of his hands in celebration before crossing the goal line. Though they scored on the ensuing play, fate was sealed and Dallas became one of only 10 undefeated teams only two games into the season.

Elsewhere- A few upsets this weekend as the Niners beat the Seahawks 33-30 on an overtime field goal. J.T. O'Sullivan looked impressive (yes that wasn't a typo) with an accurate 20-32 day for 321yds and a score. The Reskins upset the saints at home, and the Broncos looked impressive taking down San Diego on a late 2 pt conversion to win 39-38 over a team that in the preseason was looked to win the division if not more.

Week 3 matchups of note-- Pittsburgh at Philadelphia, Jacksonville at Indi, and NFC powers Green Bay head to Cowboy stadium to take on Dallas...

NFL Brief- Week 3

2008-09-30T07:02:00.001-07:00

Extra, Extra, Read all about it... 2008- The year the NFL passed on the torch. With three weeks complete in the NFL season nobody is talking about Tom Brady (injured), Peyton Manning (winless at home), or Brett Favre (washed-up). The new crop of young QB's has finally come to harvest. Philip Rivers (#1 passer rating), Eli Manning (3-0), Tony Romo (3-0), Aaron Rodgers (Brett who?), and Jay Cutler (3-0) lead a new crop of young NFL players taking this league to another level.

To the game of the week... Jacksonville at Indi. Peyton Manning looked better, but still showed signs of rust and Josh Scobee Dooby Doo hit two late field goals to help the Jags pass the Colts 23-21. The Colts may be homesick, they are winless at their brand new Lucas Oil Stadium (including preseason). RCA dome where have you gone??? With injuries clearly still plauging the Colts defense, Maurice-Jones Drew and Fred Taylor lit up the Colts defense as both rushed over 100 yards and MJD tallied a TD. The Colts get a much needed bye next week while the Jags return home to play the Texans.

Elsewhere-- The Super Bowl Champion GGGGGG- Men (sitll pains me to say that) took Overtime to beat the Lowly Bengals and remain undefeated. Chad Ocho Cinco Johnson should worry less about his name and more about not dropping passes. A dropped catch near the goal line in the 4th quarter made the Bengals kick for 3 and the tie 23-23 instead of going up 4 on the New York Football Giants. That kick forced overtime, where the Giants won with a 22 yard pooch of the boot of John "Circus Folk" Carney.

Undefeated teams through week 3-
NFC- Dallas, G-Men
AFC- Buffalo (not a typo), Baltimore, Teneessee, Denver

NFL Brief- Week 4

2008-09-30T07:01:00.001-07:00

Pretty sure Brett Favre read last weeks recap every night before bed, and used it as motivation for Sundays career high 6 TD performance. Last week I wrote, "With three weeks complete in the NFL season nobody is talking about Tom Brady (injured), Peyton Manning (winless at home), or Brett Favre (washed-up)." Rumor has it in the post game press conference, Favre was quoted as saying, "This game is dedicated to Mark Hebert who recently called me washed up!" Brett, I take it back, for this week at least. This game that showed an extreme lack of defense, gun-slinging throws, and TD after TD, only to have late in the fourth quarter, one of my favorite players, WR Anquan Boldin getting knocked unconcious on a hit that has caused Jet Safety Eric Smith a 1 game suspension and a $50,000 fine. Boldin is home resting after being decorated in the end zone.

Elsewhere, in what I thought was the game of the week and aslo the worst coached game of the season.. DAAAAA Bears vs. the E-A-G-L-ES Eagles Sunday nighter from Solider field. The Eagles, without stud RB Brian Westbrook (Ankle), Starting TE L.J. Smith (back), and the Big Kid RG Sean Andrews (depression or some other physical ailment), failed to score on the goal line with 4 tries and the Bears hung on behind Kyle Orton to beat the birds 24-20. Coach Andy Reid should take a brunt of this loss, as a questionable first half touchdown by Greg Olsen should have been challenged as it appeared by the time he got possesion of the ball he only managed to get one foot in the endzone. His second mistake was running the ball on consecutive downs on the goal line without even one play action pass play to get the stingy Bears D to bite. Instead they rushed the ball up the gut on consecutive plays and got stuffed like a thankgsiving turkey on each try. Tough loss for the birds, big win for DAAA Bears.

Patriots were off this week-- so I was at peace going undefeated.

Undefeated teams--- GGGG- Men, Titans, and the Bills cause we all know, "No body circles the wagons like the Buffalo Bills."

Big Games next week- Stellers at Jaguars and Washington at Illadelphia (not a typo, just get your thug on)

Absolutely Perfect!

2008-09-28T22:52:00.000-07:00

The Life and Times of Mr. Perfect dvd was released last week by the fine folks of World Wrestling Entertainment. It is a fitting tribute to a man, Curt Hennig, who seems to have touched the lives of all he came into contact with. Blessed with the amazing wrestling persona of a man who believes he is completely perfect but had the technical wrestling skill and charisma to back up his claims, this was a true giant of the late 80's-early 90's wrestling scene. Though injuries and time robbed him of some of his ring acumen in his later years, he is fondly remembered for some of the best wrestling matches and feuds of his time. He was able to have legendary matches with some of his fellow greats such as Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels, but most notably for me, was his ability to make even the poorest ring workers (Hogan, Ultimate Warrior, etc.) look great in the ring. Some may say that he oversold the moves of his opponents, but I say that everyone else didn't sell them enough. Mr. Perfect, thank you for the hard work. You truly are worthy of the name.

Chadgelina doesn't have the same ring to it

2008-09-28T21:56:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of the movie in development called Chad Schmidt? I find the premise hilarious. The titular protagonist is a brash young acting talent who comes to Hollywood in the late 1980's to find fame and fortune. He looks and sounds identical to a similarly brash young Brad Pitt. Unfortunately, Brad hits it big with Thelma and Louise making doppelganger Chad an uncastable Hollywood punchline. Ageless Brad Pitt is set to play both himself and Chad Schmidt in what looks to be an hilarious send up on the cruelty of the film game and the role happenstance plays landing success. Hopefully, Chad will find some inner fulfillment and not simply resort to being the Tyler Durden lookalike in front of Grauman's Theater.