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Editor/founder of Cheer the Anthem, season ticket holder in Section 326 and full-time sports writer who lists June 9, 2010, as one of the greatest days of his life. Contact him at email@example.com.
Posts by Bartl
Removing the elephant from the room: 'Hawks hit Circus Trip on high note
Nov 15th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Game Recaps
NOTE: Boxing with 'Hawks/Not-so-Mighty Ducks is below
The not-so-hidden mishaps didn't completely vanish with this victory, but the home losing streak sure did. Take it when you can.
Duncan Keith is still drunk, the 'Hawks gave up yet another goal within a minute of scoring their own and Tomas Kopecky did his best Nick Boynton impression by taking a horrible penalty in the final minute of a tight game. Some things don't change.
Thankfully, the result was more pleasant after Viktor Stalberg redirected a Keith shot in overtime to give the 'Hawks a 3-2 victory against the Anaheim Ducks — their first win at home in five games.
I'm going to admit this right off the bat: When Kopecky went to the box, I figured the game was as good as over. Even if the 'Hawks killed the remaining 53 seconds of the third — which I wasn't confident about — no way were they going to kill the 4-on-3 to start overtime. I was just hoping to come away with two points for the weekend after the shootout loss to Nashville on Friday night.
Needless to say, I'm happy I was wrong.
Marian Hossa and Patrick Kane had a goal and an assist each, and it was a welcome sight to see those two on the scoresheet. Especially Hossa. Kid hadn't scored in his last seven games.
I'm still having trouble getting over Keith's turnover which led to Corey Perry's first of two goals 57 seconds after Kane's goal. To put into perspective how utterly poorly Keith has been playing lately, here's the text I got from my Dad — who watches the 'Hawks on and off, but isn't invested — after Keith's brain fart:
"Once a game, he falls asleep and costs his team a goal. This time less than a minute after we scored. I'm watching Andy Griffith."
Can't say I blame my Pops.
Other than Keith, Kopecky is off the hook after the 'Hawks snatched the second point in overtime. Boynton was persecuted after his dipshit delay of game penalty cost the 'Hawks earlier this season, and Kopecky was right in line to get a proverbial curb stomp if the Ducks netted one on the power play.
OK, OK. Yes, there's some good. Corey Crawford played outstanding and made some key stops on point-blank chances, including a couple great saves in overtime. We've discussed Perry's goal which Keith left Crawford out to dry, and Niklas Hjalmarsson was caught flat-footed as Perry skated right past him on his second goal. Crawford is going to get a couple of starts on the Circus Trip, and I'm hoping he shows more of what he did tonight.
The passing on the winning goal was fantastic, as Brian Campbell's fake-shot-pass to Keith froze the Ducks on the far side of the ice, leaving Stalberg time to get into position for Keith's slapper toward the net.
And speaking of the Circus Trip, this is a good time for all these assholes to get themselves some quality time together and quit telling us how it's taking time to get the locker room acclimated with each other. I'll be writing up a more detailed preview of the trip and what it's done for the 'Hawks the past couple of seasons, but if these guys come back liking each other more even if they go 2-4 I'll be a happy man.
So, for now, that gigantic elephant with "YOU GUYS SUCK" written on the side of it that we didn't want to look at anymore has left the locker room. There's some tough road games coming up, and what a better way to hit the pavement than with a 'W' at home.
Without further ado, here's a happier version of "Boxing." As always, there's two separate images — one for the game summary, and one for the actual box score. Click on the images to enlarge.
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Boxing with 'Hawks/Coyotes, 11/10/10
Nov 11th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Game Recaps
Well, this officially sucks. It's not even fun to watch. I pulled the hood over my head a few minutes into the third period. As I type this, the NHL On the Fly crew is calling the Blackhawks "weak."
That's actually a very good word to describe this team. They're avoiding contact, not playing with any physicality, and look like there's nothing keeping them motivated. Boos showered the 'Hawks at the end of the second period. And why not? They deserved it.
Beyond that, the Blackhawks lost their seventh home game in regulation. They lost eight all of last season. The entire 2009-10 hockey season, they lost eight. They're already at seven.
Duncan Keith must have developed an alcohol problem, because he's playing drunk. Patrick Kane might as well have not played tonight. It's really, really painful to watch — and that's probably because it's so shocking that we have no idea what to do anymore. These are the defending Stanley Cup champions, and they probably couldn't even win a Shinny Stick tournament right now.
Without further ado, here's another depressing edition of "Boxing." As always, there are two separate images — one for the summary, one for the actual box score. Click on the image to enlarge it.
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I want to talk about how we have nothing to talk about
Nov 9th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Ramblings
NOTE: Sorry for no strict recap and/or Boxing. I was on vacation in Boston for a Bruins game and admittedly didn't see much of either game this weekend. In fact, I still haven't seen a highlight of the Thrashers game. It would be more of a disservice if I wrote about stuff I didn't see. You're alive, so you'll be OK with that.
Sunday night, it took a matter of 14 seconds for the Edmonton Oilers to relieve the Blackhawks of their lead and take their own.
The clock on when we're going to see the defending Stanley Cup champions is still ticking.
What is it I'm hoping for? I don't know. I can't say I'm demanding to see every semblance of dominance we saw last season when the Blackhawks were the best team in the NHL. I'm not going to start crying if Marty Turco isn't "The One" or if the departed 'Hawks succeed. Business decisions had to be made.
I will say I may have been a bit too harsh on some of our star players to date. Stars alone don't win titles. Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane didn't win that Cup alone last season. I'm guilty of saying I want to see more out of them and Duncan Keith and the other top-tier talent the 'Hawks possess. There's a lot of it. I understand the role of a star player is to play like a star all the time. But even Michael Jordan had off nights.
It's the off-the-ice stuff that needs the attention. No more talking about how they miss the old guys. No more talking about the new locker room and how it's taking time to jell.
What I'm hoping for is the Blackhawks new faces and role players to start proving they're impressed by that brand new banner hanging at the United Center. I want them to think back to the home opener when they stayed on the bench secluded from the players from the title team, and they watched the ring bearers witness something they'll never forget.
I want them to start imagining that they're on the ice at the 2011 home opener standing in the same spot and watching a banner be raised. It's not to say they're talented enough to make it happen, but it sure as hell doesn't seem like they're playing up to what's now expected in Chicago. And they really don't seem to be playing with the purpose of getting to that point.
And most of all, I want last year's team members to starting telling the new faces why that's so important.
There was a different look about last year's champs. There were a lot of times the role players didn't do their jobs and we got on them. However, they still had the fire in their eyes and the determination to accomplish that goal of winning the Cup. They always talked like it. Maybe they just knew the media and what had to be said, but everyone constantly talked about winning the Cup. It never went away.
Do you see that from the new faces yet? Do you see Fernando Pisani or John Scott or Viktor Stalberg have that look like, "Whatever I have to do, whatever these guys want me to do, I'll do it because I want what they have"…?
I sure haven't. And beyond that, it's happening at home — where that banner hangs right above them as a constant reminder of the expectations surrounding anyone in a Blackhawks sweater.
I refuse to believe these Blackhawks that take the ice every night don't have what it takes to win another Cup. Maybe it's the superfan in me, but we've all seen flashes of brilliance from lots of those new guys. It's the consistency that's lacking. Last year's 'Hawks team was consistently good, then got great when they needed to be great.
This team is consistently mediocre, and they've gotten good at times. The personalities are different, sure. Last year's team had a closeness about them that even the players have acknowledged is lacking at this point. Well, what are they going to do to regain that? Last year's team didn't know each other until they met. Seems like a stupid thing to say, right?
However, these guys are all professionals and share a locker room, and a city. Figure something out. Remember in that Seinfeld episode when Elaine referred to her and George as friends-in-law? Elaine then sat down with George and told Jerry afterward, "I wanted to talk about how we have nothing to talk about." Well, do that if you have to. Get your shit together, and get it together fast.
Toews knows what I'm talking about:
"That motivation should be coming within our own locker room … we're adults and we're mature hockey players and when it's time to light that fire, you know where… "
While the 'Hawks find some lighter fluid, the Detroit Red Wings continue to win. The St. Louis Blues, of all the goddamn teams, are playing phenominal. The 'Hawks are currently staring up at both their naked asses being waved in their proverbial face. I know, it's early. But how many times have teams had rough starts in a good division and simply can't catch up because the other teams above them continued to play well? It's not uncommon. More often than not, a solid start leads to long-term success.
So, what's it going to take? Losing two games to a bottom-feeding Western Conference team at home within a week? I hope so. Maybe on Wednesday we can watch a team beginning to get things in order, beginning to play together rather than trying to do things in spite of each other.
The 'Hawks still haven't hit the opposition with their best shot.
Hopefully we won't have to wait much longer.
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Committed Indian column: 10 Reasons Why the Blackhawks Can Repeat
Nov 7th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Ramblings
**** Sam Fels of Second City Hockey gave me some space in his wonderful creation, The Committed Indian, for tonight's game against the Edmonton Oilers. Here's my column. Don't be cheap and purchase one outside the UC for $3 if you're headed there tonight. GO 'HAWKS!
Despite all the departures, I don't think anyone believed the Blackhawks would be stumbling into November hovering around the .500 mark. Things sure as shit haven't been ideal and right now, this isn't a Stanley Cup contender.
Fortunately, the NHL doesn't hand out the Stanley Cup in November. Through 16 games last season the Blackhawks were 9-5-2 – not much difference from this season — Antti Niemi's balls hadn't dropped yet and Cam Barker still skated on the third pairing.
Lots of things can change between now and June – and they have to. As much as we all sit and point farts in the direction of Stan Bowman, we know he knows, too. And we know the players know it.
So, with that in mind, I present you with 10 Reasons Why the Blackhawks Can Repeat. I'm not saying they will repeat, so don't come trying to chop my head off if the 'Hawks are on their couches come June. Agree, disagree, whatever. Sam gave me the space for tonight, you paid for the damn thing, so you will listen to every single word I have to say.
John Scott and Nick Boynton
Total joke. These two worthless piles of shit hopefully won't be around come March. I'm actually hoping Scott murders Boynton and is sent to jail for life. Then we won't have to worry about either of them. Now that I have your attention…
Patrick Kane will start to give a shit
Partying with his best friend Jack Daniels and a summer of casual sex may still be on his mind, but Kaner isn't far off his pace from last season. After 16 games, he had 16 points (4G, 12A). He's behind, but not by much.
The problem is that his attitude seems to be different. He looks like he's ready for the bar as soon as he steps on the ice. I personally think his "20 Cent" incident last offseason had him coming out of the gate with fire in his eyes. After winning the Cup and being loved for scoring the winner, he may seem a bit more casual. Rather than playing with something to prove on top of his ridiculous talent, he's simply playing on talent.
Despite all of his nonsense, Kaner is a competitive SOB. He's not happy where the team is right now, and his attitude will change. I'm certain of it. Last season's, "I'm going to score on you, and there's nothing you can do about it" attitude will come out – and soon.
Marian Hossa is, well, Marian Hossa
Hopefully while you're reading this, Hossa is on the ice somewhere. Before he got hurt, Hossa was the best player in the NHL. He was doing everything right, scoring goals, finding teammates… it was beautiful to watch. The 'Hawks haven't been the same without him. They've looked like they've been missing something.
That something has been Hossa's "Yeah, I'm doing this, you can watch if you'd like" style of play. The Blackhawks have Marian Hossa, the other teams don't. Advantage: 'Hawks.
Patrick Sharp is extremely handsome… and good
I remember saying at about the midway point of last season that Sharp has the offensive talent to be a 40-goal scorer. He just may accomplish the feat this season – and look good doing it.
I understand he can be better in his own zone, which his plus/minus proves. But his offense is what's going to help the Blackhawks, and he hasn't disappointed thus far.
Jonathan Toews won't let this bullshit continue
I'm not talking about his performance on the ice – though the 'Hawks could use some more offensive production from Tazer. I'm talking about that 'C' on his chest which he's shown he's well deserving of having. With all the new faces in the locker room, I'm assuming he's simply waiting for the right time to start putting people in their place.
Duncan Keith recently said it's taking some time for everyone to jell – both on and off the ice – and the Blackhawks are struggling because of it. Toews isn't going to stand for much more of that excuse. This team is a bunch of professionals and they're expected to mesh with whatever situation they're thrust into. Tazer will do his job and right the ship.
Marty Turco may give you heart failure, but he's a very serviceable goalie
The flailing, the flopping, the sometimes recklessness with the puck … I know, it can be taxing on blood pumper. His style is similar to Tim Thomas of Boston, which has been said to not but suitable for a playoff grind.
It's true, Turco hasn't had much playoff success. But Turco has come up with big saves while facing a lot more shots than he and any of us thought he'd be facing. Turco is far from the reason the Blackhawks are roughly mediocre right now. He's kept some games closer than they should've been, and he has the talent, experience and determination to earn a ring to help the 'Hawks through the season.
Brian Campbell is back
Without him, the Blackhawks were giving up an alarming amount of shots and changing up the defensive pairings seemingly every night. His absence was more than noticeable. Does anyone find it coincidental the 'Hawks began rolling in the playoffs once Campbell came back last season? His return is the reason I believe …
Niklas Hjalmarsson will start playing up to his contract
Hammer's left a lot to be desired since the 'Hawks matched San Jose's offer sheet, but I refuse to put all the blame on him. He hasn't been able to play with the same cohesiveness with his defensive partner as he did nearly all of last season with Campbell.
Super Nintendo Hjalmers is a very heady player who is fundamentally sound and isn't afraid to absorb contact in order to make the correct play. Though he hasn't lived up to his new salary, look for Hammer to return to form with Campbell returning.
Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook will play like the best D tandem in the NHL
Campbell's injury forced Keith and Seabrook to play ungodly amounts of minutes, mainly because the units behind them were simply far less talented. They even had to be split up at times to try and make up for the deficiency.
Keith is still the Norris Trophy winner for a reason, and he's near the top of the league in assists. His decision-making has been questionable, and Seabrook has appeared to be a bit lazy and getting beat on plays he normally wouldn't.
Fatigue can't be ignored in this situation. They're the best tandem in the league when they're on top of their game, and I can't see some of the sloppiness continuing much longer.
Everything will fall into place by mid-January.
The 'Hawks basically wrapped up the Central with a 10-4-1 January last season with Hossa hitting full stride after returning from injury. Hopefully the Blackhawks can stay healthy and won't have to worry about that sort of thing. However, the new faces should have meshed with the stars by this point, and everyone should understand their roles. There's a reason the stars are the stars, and they make people better. We're not seeing the immediate effects, but by January we should be seeing some solid results.
No matter what, this team will be dangerous come June.
Put a defending Stanley Cup champion in the playoffs and anything can happen. Last season, some wondered if the 'Hawks were too young and inexperienced to win it all. Well, there went that idea.
Now think of a young team coming off a Cup win and hungry enough to want to repeat. Five of the last six President's Trophy winners haven't won gone all the way, so forget regular-season record.
I know it may seem harder than it sounds with the Central Division being as strong as it is this season. But if the Blackhawks can get in the playoffs, they'll make some noise. They have the talent to win a finesse series, the ability to win a speed series and the toughness to win a physical series.
Stealing a quote, "Never underestimate the heart of a champion."
Contact Bartl sits in Section 326. Go buy him a beer or contact him at firstname.lastname@example.com. Follow him on Twitter @BlackhawksUp
Boxing (and a lot more) with Blackhawks/Devils, 11/3/10
Nov 4th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Game Recaps
I'm going to add more to "Boxing" tonight, simply because this diarrhea-inducing excuse for a performance deserves more than some quick whit.
The amount of flabby ass left on the ice tonight is starting to become all too familiar, which is piss-poor for a defending Stanley Cup champion. I don't want to hear anymore about how this team needs to jell, and I don't want to hear anymore about what the Blackhawks DON'T have that could be contrived as an excuse.
The 'Hawks handed over two points in their 5-3 loss to the New Jersey Devils, a team that had scored three goals ONCE before tonight. The Devils' all-world goaltender Martin Brodeur left with an injury in the second period, and he wasn't challenged all that much to begin with when Johan Hedberg relieved him.
I don't care if Marian Hossa is out. I don't care that Dave Bolland is out. I don't care that half of last year's Cup team is spread around the NHL this season. The Blackhawks have three gold medalists, including the Olympic MVP and Conn Smythe winner, a silver medalist and electrifying goal-scorer, a Norris Trophy winner, a defenseman worthy of a $7-million-per-year salary and a very handsome man taking the ice every night. Few teams in the NHL boast this, especially when most of the aforementioned accomplishments came from players under 29.
All of that is more than good enough to make up for/help out the role players on this team, or any team for that matter. There's so much talent that's playing patty-cake night in and night out that is making me sick to my stomach. I hate talking like this, and I hate being this guy. However, there's only so much I can take before I start getting insanely pissed.
The Devils came into the UC tonight without stud muffin Zach Parise and looking like a team that could barely beat the Chicago Wolves. Yet, the Blackhawks displayed enough laziness and poor decision-making to fart away what should have been a sure victory to a team far, far less talented.
I mentioned before the season started that QStache was really going to have to earn his money this year. So far, there's nothing for which I can pat him on the back. This isn't the same strategic team as it was last year. Anyone who watches sports has seen teams with less talent win games and championships simply because of coaching and strategy. This Blackhawks team won't do it. Q needs to start coaching to what he has, rather than forcing players into roles they're not suited for and have no chance to succeed.
Tonight's loss exposed all the bullshit within that team. They're not playing like they want to defend the Cup and keep it here in Chicago. They seem content with bringing it to bars, clubs and on TV this past summer and letting someone else experience their fun this coming June. There's no urgency. There's no heart. There's nothing that was the staple of this team last season. And the reason that's inexcusable is because the main core of this team is still the intact.
*** I'd like to send a special shout out to Brian, Scott and Drew of VIP's for the complimentary passes and Brian, the manager of Cans Bar, for the drinks. Much appreciated, fellas.
So, with that, here's your fucking "Boxing." As always, there are two separate images — one for the summary, one for the actual box score. Click on the image to enlarge it.
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Boxing with Hawks/Rangers, 11/1/10
Nov 2nd
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Game Recaps
Well, that was just frustrating. There's really no better way to describe it.
If you're going to give up a goal in the last 20 seconds of a period, take a penalty at the end of a period and then give up a game-winner after tying the game 28 seconds earlier, how the living fuck are you going to expect to win a game?
Adding to that, the Rangers played without Chris Drury, Vinny Prospal and Marian Gaborik.
The Blackhawks' 3-2 loss Monday to the New York Rangers spoiled the return of Brian Campbell, who looked like, well, like he's been out for a long time. However, he did play well, and you can't expect much out of a guy who hasn't dressed yet this season.
Unfortunately, Sean Avery was not taken out by a sniper during the game, which was something I actually bowed my head and prayed would happen before the game started.
Without further ado, here's your latest edition of "Boxing."
As always, there are two separate images — one for the summary, one for the actual box score. Click on the image to enlarge it.
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Eddie O: Campbell playing tonight
Nov 1st
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Ramblings
Eddie Olczyk stopped by the NHL Live studios in New York, and said on the show that Brian Campbell will be playing tonight at Madison Square Garden against the Rangers.
It'll be interesting to see how many minutes QStache gives him and/or how many the doctors have cleared him to play. Either way, having watched Nick Boynton and John Scott fart all over the ice this season, even just a few minutes of Soupy would be a welcome site.
Tim should have your full preview later today.
Welcome back, Soupy.
UPDATE: A guy with actual big-boy credentials, Tim Sassone, puts up a blog stating Campbell's return benefits Niklas Hjalmarsson the most, seeing has he's currently a minus-8.
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Boxing with 'Hawks/Wild, 10/30/10
Oct 31st
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Game Recaps
This edition of "Boxing" is a bit more wordy in order to make it more recap-like. There's just not a ton to write about the Blackhawks' 3-1 win Saturday against the Minnesota Wild. The game was so boring, it's hard to even try and make shit up that's funny.
Either way, here's it goes. As always, there are two separate images — one for the summary, one for the actual box score. Click on the image to enlarge it.
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Boxing with Hawks/Oilers, 10/29/10
Oct 30th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Game Recaps
Here's your "Boxing" from the Blackhawks diarrhea-inducing 7-4 loss to the Edmonton Oilers on Friday night.
Please note there will be no preview for tonight's game against the Minnesota Wild. Tim is out of town and I'm watching the Michigan State vs. Iowa game. You'll live.
As always, there are two separate images — one for the summary, one for the actual box score. Click on the image to enlarge it.
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Boxing with Hawks/Kings, 10/27/10
Oct 29th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Game Recaps
Sorry, sorry, sorry for getting this up so late. Tim put together a good recap and I'm having so much sympathy for Marian Hossa getting hurt that I'm starting to get sick. Without further ado, here's your "Boxing" from Wednesday night's Blackhawks 3-1 win against the Los Angeles Kings.
As always, there are two separate images — one for the summary, one for the actual box score. Click on the image to enlarge it.
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Theory of the Three-Year Grace Period
Oct 25th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Ramblings
I've lived by a notion for quite some time. There's no right or wrong, but there's a general understanding I believe should be accepted by an avid supporter of any franchise.
It's the Theory of the Three-Year Grace Period. It's fairly simple, and the Chicago Blackhawks are the perfect example.
If I had to come up with a general overview of the Theory, it would go something like this: If the franchise you support wins a championship, you have no right to get angry or upset regarding any player decisions — excluding "star players" — made by management for a period of three years.
To be more clear, the Theory does not include coaching decisions. For instance, I can be completely perplexed and question QStache for jumbling the lines or, more importantly, why the living hell he continues to scratch Jordan Hendry when John Scott noticeably sucks.
Here are the general principles:
Players are often forgotten, but championships are remembered forever.
If you're a supporter of a franchise, you'll remember the exact place you were and whom you were with when your team wins a championship. I can tell you the exact places I was when the Chicago Bulls won all six of their titles in the 1990s, and I'll always remember where I was on June 9, 2010. None of those memories will ever, ever go away.
However, I have no idea where Bobby Hansen went for the 1992-93 season after sparking the Bulls to a fourth-quarter rally in Game 6 of the 1992 NBA Finals. He's long been forgotten. And in 10-15 years, I challenge you to remember where Brent Sopel went after the 'Hawks won the Cup. But in 10 years, you'll still remember where you were and whom you were with when the 'Hawks ended their 49-year title drought.
Repeating championships are nice, but it's a greedy thought.
Sometimes we forget how hard it is to win one championship, let alone two, three, four, etc. And for a long-suffering Blackhawks fan, I can't see how that's possible. Do you realize how long 49 years is?
It's very easy for a fan to become entitled and spoiled by a championship. Many great athletes played their entire career without winning a championship, and many franchises with extremely large fan bases have gone years without a single title *cough* Cubs *cough.*
As a fan, take your title and be happy for a little while. A repeat is just gravy. In the case of Blackhawks fans, enjoy the Stanley Cup we currently have and enjoy some good hockey. Take in the banner when you go to the United Center. Watch your championship DVD. Re-watch Game 6 on your DVR. You'll enjoy it just as much as you did live.
If you think your franchise stopped liking winning, you're stupid.
Every management representative of the franchise you support wants to win again. If you think you want to win, multiply it by 100 and you'll come close to knowing how they feel. Not only do they feel a sense of pride, but they get very rich by winning. If management makes moves, it's either because they're forced by player demands/league rules which would financially over-extend the franchise or break rules, OR because it's simply at management's discretion the player be moved.
And since the management of your franchise made the right personnel moves the season before which won you the championship you'll never forget, I'd say there's a decent head on that person's shoulders.
If I had to come with FAQs on the Theory, here's what it would look like:
If my team made the finals, do I live by the Theory?
No. Simply playing for a championship does not qualify you to live by the Theory. The reason being that your team was THAT close to a title, and you have every right to challenge and question management for making offseason or in-season moves that you feel may bring down the chances of winning a title. For example, Philadelphia Flyers fans can challenge and question with great vigor any player moves made.
Can I still be upset about the actual play of the new/current players and be just as passionate about my team winning another championship?
Of course. It's the reason we love sports so much. Some players — new or remaining — are just terrible, and teams are forced to win titles in spite of those players. However, to say, "Damn, we should have kept Departed Player X rather than get this asshole," is not right. As previously stated in the general principles, the move was made for a reason by the management who gave you the championship you'll never forget.
Why is it the Theory of the Three-Year Grace Period and not four, five, six, etc.?
Three years for a championship team is plenty of time to reload/rebuild/find a new direction to win another title. If a franchise had to over-extend itself to win you the title you'll never forget, management deserves time to be able to do what's right by them to keep the franchise running successfully, though it may not feasibly be at a championship level.
If your team has not won another title within those three years, you have every right to challenge and question moves heading into the fourth year of the drought. After all, we're still supportive fans and paying customers who help feed the franchise money. Especially since we're living in a "I want it right now!" society, three years is more than enough time.
* * * *
The Theory can be difficult to live by for fans, including myself. I questioned the Blackhawks sending Nick Leddy to Rockford when he was more than serviceable during his stint, especially because Brian Campbell is out with an injury. Nick Boynton and Scott are worthless. In my mind, I couldn't justify the decision. Then I checked out my Stanley Cup Champions t-shirt, and I immediately began to trust Stan Bowman.
However, I will never, ever, ever complain about the 'Hawks trading Dustin Byfuglien, Kris Versteeg, Brent Sopel, Ben Eager or Andrew Ladd, letting Adam Burish sign with Dallas or walking away from Antti Niemi. I made it pretty clear why simply based on what the Blackhawks had left to compete this season. But beyond that, I trust Bowman. I trust his hockey mind and I trust what he needs to do in order to stay competitive yet stay within financial compliance.
The bottom line is that I keep hearing a lot about how we should have kept one or more of the above players mentioned when the Blackhawks struggle. And the memory of people questioning the signing of Marian Hossa at the expense of letting Martin Havlat walk even furthers my point that management is smarter than us — no matter hard it is for us to admit.
I want to see the Blackhawks repeat as Stanley Cup champions as much as the next person. I probably think about it so much it borders on being unhealthy.
But if they are hoisting the Cup in 2011, management put the players on the ice, not us. And if they're not? Well, that Stanley Cup champions t-shirt still looks pretty sweet.
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Bupkis for the weekend: 'Hawks drop a pair to annoying division rivals
Oct 24th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Game Recaps
Admittedly, I spent most of this weekend focused on on a college reunion for the Michigan State vs. Northwestern game and wasn't focused on the Blackhawks. The problem with that? I still saw enough shitting the bed that annoyed me.
The winning streak was nice, but the shortcomings we've been pointing out during those wins ultimately came back to bite us in the ass Friday night against the St. Louis Blues during the 4-2 loss in Chicago Jr. Then, Columbus did its best impression of the 'Hawks, coming back from two goals down Saturday to beat us 3-2 at the UC.
Here's my brief Sunday morning recap of what I saw. And this is all assuming you watched the games, so if you're looking for a traditional recap check the Blackhawks' official site….
♦ David Perron continues to shove his stick directly up my ass for dropping him on my fantasy team by killing the 'Hawks. The asshole has all of his four goals and four of his five points in two games against the Blackhawks. I only have myself to blame. Well, actually…
♦ Nick Boynton is officially playing like the guy who's been a castoff for a few teams over the past few seasons, sat in Rockford for most of last season and was a healthy scratch whenever possible during the 'Hawks Cup run. How Jen Patterson wants any part of this guy is beyond me, especially if she's ever seen him lace up his skates. Boynton is constantly out of position, and because of that is flailing around the ice most of the time wondering where he should go next.
He pinches when he shouldn't pinch, he falls for the slightest of fakes and is so slow Hans Moleman could run him down. He played like a complete pile of dog shit in both games this weekend, and the best part of the Blackhawks having the next three days off is that I don't have to watch Boynton attempt to be a hockey player.
♦ I'm not sure how many of you thought you'd ever say this, but Tomas Kopecky being out Saturday seemed to hurt the 'Hawks. His absence did allow for Kane/Toews/Sharp to get back together for the night and allowed Dave Bolland to get back with Marian Hossa and Troy Brouwer. But as much shit as Kopecky gets, he still plays solid, pretty fundamental hockey, which seemed to be lacking toward the end of the second and into the third.
♦ Speaking of Bolland, any excuses for his poor performance to date can officially be thrown out the window. Talk all you want about him centering players who aren't as talented like Fernando Pisani and Bryan Bickell, but Saturday he skated with one of the league's top goal scorers and a guy who should have been playing on the top two lines all season long. Bolland's 41.4 faceoff percentage is atrocious, and he simply looks like a kid skating around that needs a haircut.
Bolland has one goal and one assist in 10 games and I'm about ready to start calling out QStache to make him a healthy scratch to set him straight. It's becoming a nightmare to watch.
♦ Patrick Sharp is playing out of his mind. He's tied with Steven Stamkos for the NHL lead in goals and continues to be a very handsome man.
♦ On the other hand, Hossa has slowed down and has now been held without a point in three straight games.
♦ Both Marty Turco and Corey Crawford played well in their starts this weekend — especially Crawford. The kid gave us every opportunity to win and each of the three goals he gave up came on defensive lapses. Turco's performance was solid in St. Louis, but he needs to stop the Blues' third goal hands down. I understand there was traffic, but that's the second time this season — including the home opener against Detroit — that he let a weak shot trickle five-hole for the game-winner.
♦ Don't look now, but Kopecky has more points than Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane. This includes Saturday night's game when Toews had a goal and an assist in a game when Kopecky sat out. Kane hasn't scored a goal in five games. I'm assuming this won't continue for the rest of the season. However, if it does, the short blonde guy swinging from a noose off the Michael Jordan statue will be me.
♦ I understand Duncan Keith is leading the NHL by averaging nearly a half hour of ice time (29:44), but he's slapping that puck around like he's thinking, "I won the Norris, so I can do whatever I want." Now, to be clear, I don't think Keith is the type of guy who thinks that way. However, he's sure as hell playing like it. He's attempting to force pucks in places they have no business going even if there weren't three opponents in the way, and I'm failing to remember a time when I thought to myself, "Man, Duncs played really well tonight."
♦ This is just hilarious. Adam Burish apologizes for being a shitty video-game character.
Ok, I'm about done here. A combined edition of "Boxing" will be up tomorrow morning, then you can expect something from Tim either tomorrow or Tuesday.
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Boxing with Hawks/Canucks, 10/20/10
Oct 22nd
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Game Recaps
Sorry for getting this up so late, but I had some car issues I had to work with yesterday and there was a bunch of other shit going on that you don't care about. So, here's your latest edition of "Boxing" from the Blackhawks' shootout win Wednesday against the Vancouver Canucks.
There are two separate images — one for the Summary and one for the Box. Click on the images to enlarge them.
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Boxing with 'Hawks/Blues, 10/18/10
Oct 18th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Game Recaps
Here's your latest edition of "Boxing" from the Blackhawks' 3-2 OT win Monday against the St. Louis Blues. Sorry about not getting boxing going from the weekend games, but… actually, I'm not sorry. I was tired and lazy and you're still alive so whatever.
There are two separate images — one for the Summary and one for the Box. Click on the images to enlarge them.
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Looking Sharp: 'Hawks take two with help from a very handsome man
Oct 17th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Game Recaps
Patrick Sharp is a very handsome man. He's a pretty decent hockey player, too.
The man behind the looks had a pair of two-goal games in Friday's 5-2 win against Columbus and Saturday's 4-3 win against Buffalo. Sharp's performances also block that big spotlight beaming on Saturday's win that the 'Hawks pretty much should have lost.
But as my buddy Boston Joe told me earlier today when Michigan State struggled through a win against Illinois, "Good teams win." The 'Hawks still play like the champions they are when needed.
That was no more evident than during Friday's dismantling of the BJs. After the loss to Nashville and with Marty Turco sitting for two straight games, the 'Hawks needed to take advantage of a rusty Columbus team that hadn't played in nearly a week.
Sharp put 13 shots on net Friday. To put that into perspective, the 'Hawks had 21 shots Saturday as a team. He's simply playing like a man possessed. To me, it's clear when someone is playing like they have something to prove when the kid in them comes out. After each of Sharp's goals Saturday — which includes the game-winner late in the third period — he celebrated like he scored his first goal in pee-wee hockey. It was beautiful to watch, and he's showing he knew he had to put his name on the scoresheet even more this season with all of the departures during offseason. He's neat.
All right, onto the meat of this…
♦ Marian Hossa is a goddamn beast. A goal and an assist Friday, another goal Saturday. Him and Sharp have both potted five goals now and are clearly playing like men among boys. Not only is Hossa putting himself on the scoresheet, he's doing all the things we need to appreciate more: Kill penalties, backcheck like a mother fucker, control the puck and provide scoring opportunities for his teammates. Hossa is the ultimate example of unselfishness, he's got a six-game points streak and I have a gigantic man crush.
♦ There's been a Dave Bolland siting! He's been playing like Fat Albert on roller skates up until tonight, when he made a great move on Patrick Lalime to tie the game 3-3. Bolland also was 13-for-19 on faceoffs tonight after farting on the dot most of the previous five games. Hopefully we see more of Saturday's Bolland from here on out.
♦ Both of Brent Seabrook's assists tonight were gorgeous. He made a great pass on a 4-on-4 to spring Bolland and earlier fed a beautiful lead pass to Hossa for his goal. We haven't seen the 2009-10 Seabs until tonight, which isn't surprising given he's been playing nearly a half-hour per night. But Saturday his passing skills led to two big goals.
♦ John Scott is a 6'8″, 258-pound paperweight.
♦ Anyone else surprised the Sabres didn't at least try and stir up shit with Niklas Hjalmarsson tonight? I really felt we'd see some punches thrown or at least a monster hit from someone. Eh, whatever.
♦ O Campbell, Where Art Thou? Jassen Cullimore belongs in Rockford or on a couch somewhere. He played 18:54 in sheer terror and had me begging for Brent Sopel's ugly ass by the 10-minute mark. Also, the 'Hawks were out-shot 41-21 against Buffalo and let 32 go through against Columbus. PooP.
♦ What a week for Nick Boynton. He takes a dipshit delay-of-game penalty that doomed the 'Hawks against the Preds, took another dipshit penalty at the end of the game tonight against Buffalo and played a role in the hotness that is Jen Patterson getting fired from Comcast Sportsnet. Asshole.
♦ Back to some better stuff, Marty Turco played really well in both victories this weekend. He may scare the shit out of you and may lead you to brief moments of heart failure, but Turco makes the saves when they're need the most. The 'Hawks have made life difficult for their goaltenders so far this year, and Turco has stepped up.
I know there's more stuff I can add, but I don't want to make this too long. "Boxing" upcoming… when I feel like it.
'Til then…
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Boxing with Blackhawks and Monsters in the Forest in Arnold movies, 10/13/10
Oct 13th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Game Recaps
Here's Wednesday's twisted box score from the Blackhawks' 3-2 loss to the Nashville Predators. Enjoy.
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NHL lays the Hammer: Hjalmarsson suspended 2 games for hit
Oct 12th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Ramblings
As suspected, Niklas Hjalmarsson has been suspended for two games for his bone-crushing hit on Jason Pominville, according to TSN. I thought it would only be one game, personally, but the NHL gave two games to James Wisniewski today for making a blowjob gesture on the ice. I guess nearly killing someone — intent be damned — is worth at least a blowjob.
Anyway, we'll have more thoughts on this later.
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Boxing with the Blackhawks and Giant Swords, 10/11/10
Oct 12th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Game Recaps
Monday night's box score of the Blackhawks' 4-3 victory against the Buffalo Sabres — with a twist.
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The Champs are here! The Champs are here!: Blackhawks 4, Sabres 3
Oct 12th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Game Recaps
This game, nor this season, started like we wanted it to start. Before anyone finished mixing their after-work cocktail, the 'Hawks fell behind 2-0 and seemed headed toward their third straight loss to open their title defense.
But this is what champions do — they fight back. Monday's win won't go down as the prettiest — unless you're counting Patrick Sharp being back in the lineup — but it's a win nonetheless which gets the 'Hawks on the board.
Also, good to hear Jason Pominville only suffered a concussion. For a minute there it looked like he would be making a tee time on Cloud 9 with Kim Johnsson.
Here's what I've got…
♦ Marian Hossa is the motherfucking master. His two goals tonight made Ryan Miller look like Cristobal Huet's little sister, and he's got five points in the first three games. Hossa also set up a chance for Jonathan Toews while lying on his testicles by somehow sliding the puck over with his stick to a cutting Toews. Watching this guy play is a thing of beauty, and everyone better start appreciating how lucky we are to be able to witness this until he retires before his 300-year contract is up for the next 11 seasons.
♦ Despite the two quick goals, Corey Crawford played very well tonight and made some good saves — especially on scrambles in front of the net. Sharp stood and watched Drew Stafford skate right past him up the middle of the ice and put a dart on net 14 seconds into the game. Then every 'Hawk on the ice supervised while Derek Roy positioned himself in front of the net to put a rebound past Crawford just a couple minutes later. It could've shaken the kid up, but he hung tough and finished strong.
♦ Niklas Hjalmarsson didn't intend to nearly kill Pominville, but he's going to get suspended — it's just a matter of how many games. It was simply a timing play Hammer mistimed. But with the NHL dying to make an example of someone other than people who make blowjob gestures on the ice — Very classy, Wiz — Hammer will have some extra time to film his Ikea commercials.
♦ Another half hour-plus (31:42) of ice time for Duncan Keith, with Brent Seabrook adding close to that (28:30). Not trying to make excuses from their sometimes spotty play, but I'm wondering if these two are feeling the effects of so much time on the ice. Granted, Seabrook looked absolutely lost a few times tonight, most notably on the Sabres' third goal which slipped right past him. But with Brian Campbell out, Hammer getting booted, John Scott being a complete boner and the inexperience of Nick Leddy, the 'Hawks are relying heavily on Keith and Seabs and it's tough to expect them to make every single play.
♦ Speaking of Leddy, congrats on your first goal, kid. Even if it was uglier than a Brent Sopel look-a-like contest.
♦ Patrick Kane netted a power-play goal to pull the 'Hawks within 2-1, scoring a goal in Buffalo for the first time since 2007.
♦ The fourth line of Jack Skille, Jake Dowell and Viktor Stalberg had some great shifts tonight, which is becoming a trend. Now, if they can just put one in the net …
♦ Dave Bolland needs to get his head out of his ass. He was 3-for-9 on the faceoff dot and looked like a complete moron most of the night. I'm not sure what's wrong with him, but through three games he's done nothing but aggravate me.
♦ Toews' numbers: 21:09 on-ice, +3, 14-for-25 in faceoffs and one good deed, bringing Leddy the puck for his first NHL goal.
That's it for now. The latest edition of "Boxing" will be up around noon tomorrow. You'll read it.
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Boxing with the Blackhawks and Communists, 10/9/10
Oct 11th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Game Recaps
Here's Saturday night's Blackhawks vs. Red Wings box score with a twist:
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Boxing with Blackhawks and Big Falling Snow Pile, 10/7/10
Oct 8th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Game Recaps
My nice new job allows me access to screenshots of the box scores, so I thought I'd take advantage and try to put something together for last night's Blackhawks opener vs. the Colorado Avalanche.
I'm going to try and do this as much as I can this season. Can't guarantee I'll get to it every single game. Sorry if the font is a bit small, but it's definitely readable. Let me know what everyone thinks.
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It's a league game, Smokey: Falling Snow Pile 4, Blackhawks 3 (OT)
Oct 8th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Game Recaps
It's pretty amazing how emotions shift so quickly. Until yesterday, I was still enjoying the Stanley Cup victory. Hell, I haven't even gotten my season-ticket holder time to grope the thing. That happens Oct. 14.
But as soon as the VERSUS coverage shifted to Denver, I forgot everything that happened in June and during the Summer-long celebration. We're back to reality, and the Colorado Avalanche made sure the Blackhawks know that, too.
The 'Hawks showed flashes of their potential to repeat as champs, but also played like they were wearing slippers at times. It's what comes with defending a title and having a target on your back. And there's 81 more of these to go.
Though I would have loved to get started with a victory, the Blackhawks came out with a standings point from a game in which they trailed 3-1 and looked left for dead. So, there's that.
Here's the rest of what I've got for tonight…
♦ Before everyone starts leaving skid marks in their undies, Marty Turco is the reason that game even went to overtime. I wanted to get that out of the way just in case there's a meathead reading this saying, "We should've never let Niemi walk." Turco made some great saves tonight on good chances for the Avs — and more importantly, on good shots as well. There's not much to complain about on any of those four goals.
♦ Turco's athleticism is something we're not used to, and it may cause heart failure for one or two people this season watching him chase the puck all over the place. Yes, he almost got burned getting caught in Bumblefuck deciding whether or not to chase down a loose puck entering the zone. But I'm convinced Turco's ability to play the puck will be an asset for the 'Hawks rather than a detriment. Minus the Chris Stewart goal, Turco snuffed the Avs on a couple more odd-man rushes because…
♦ … the 'Hawks were noticeably different without Brian Campbell. The Avs had enough short-handed chances tonight to make me want to strangle a small child. Part of the reason for that is Campbell's speed wasn't around to make up for the blue-line shortcomings of the forwards at the point. Aside from that, Nick Leddy's blunder which led to the Stewart goal may not have happened, but I'll get to that in a minute.
Oh, and the Blackhawks gave up 41 shots. This can't keep happening. And if it does, it'll be a long season.
♦ Marian Hossa is a fucking animal. He just does everything right. Even forgetting his deflection goal and beautiful assist on Bryan Bickell's tally, Hossa makes such good decisions and plays an outstanding defense for a forward. If he wasn't known so much as a scorer and playmaker, I have no doubt he'd be getting more consideration for the Selke Trophy.
♦ Patrick Sharp is not only a very handsome man, he also played fantastic tonight. Even during the preseason, Sharp looked like a man just dying to get back on the ice and get the season started. Not a bad way to get going: Goal, assist and seven shots on goal.
♦ Getting back to Leddy's miscue in the offensive zone that lead to Stewart's goal: It was a 19-year-old play made by a kid seeing his first NHL action. Leddy turned a routine cross-ice pass into hacky sack. Niklas Hjalmarsson was forced to saucer it to Leddy, who had time to either settle the puck down with his hand — a la Duncan Keith – or simply let the puck slip past him and let the boards settle it down for him. Overall, Leddy didn't play all that bad for a guy no one really figures is ready to play at this level. He made a rookie mistake.
Let's just hope there's not many more of them.Sorry, there are no polls available at the moment.
A couple non-'Hawks-related things…
For those who may not have noticed the names on certain posts, Tim Currell has jumped aboard to help me out with some thoughts and keep this site updated with insightful words. My fault, Tim, for not announcing this earlier. But be sure to check the names on the posts to know who's writing and who to direct your feedback to. You can find each of our email addresses on the "About" page.
Holy. Fucking. Shitballs. Look at this fucking goal by Jordan Eberle, the Edmonton Oilers rookie making his NHL debut. I couldn't go without posting this:
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No TV, No Crosby…
Sep 28th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Preseason
For the first time this pre-season, we'll all be relegated to our smart phones (or in my dad's case, his U.S. Cellular handout flip phone) checking on updates. The Blackhawks will get their first glimpse of the new Console Energy Center in Pittsburgh when they take the ice against the Penguins at 6 p.m. CST. Judging by the look of the lineups, we shouldn't be missing too much with this game not being televised.
Sidney Crosby will once again dodge the Blackhawks as he ices down his vagina this evening, but Evgeni Malkin will man up and play (though probably pretty sparingly). The 'Hawks are also going pretty thin, with Jonathan Toews, Patrick Sharp, Marian Hossa, Duncan Keith and both Marty Turco and Corey Crawford taking a night off.
The best news of the day came when Jeff Taffe was sent down to Rockford so I don't have to watch that shithead stumble all over the ice for the time being. With 19-year-old Jeremy Morin looking pretty damn good for a roster spot and Jack Skille playing exactly like he needed to in order to stick with the big club, Taffe and Evan Brophey are easy-to-live-with casualties.
As McClure of SCH pointed out, it would be nice to see more out of Makarov Cocktail and Viktor Stalberg in this one, especially since the coaching staff is giving them every opportunity to show what they can do with the studs on this team.
Short and sweet for tonight. I'll be keeping up on my Droid. GO ICEHOGS 'HAWKS!!
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Comcast needs a pre-season, too
Sep 24th
Posted by Bartl in 2010-11 Ramblings
Watching the replay of the Blackhawks' 4-2 pre-season loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning, I noticed something very strange. Pat Foley and Eddie Olczyk clearly were announcing the game the entire time. Apparently, Comcast disagreed. Have a look:
I did a little research but couldn't find out who any of these three people are; unless of course it's just the dummy template some intern forgot to fill.
Much like the Blackhawks, Comcast isn't immune to needing some exhibitions. Luckily this intern will have another chance tonight to prove his/her worth before Comcast makes it's first roster cuts.
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'Hawks vs. Lightning Live Chat
Sep 22nd
Posted by Bartl in Blackhawks


text:
T-Bone's Week 3 College Football Top 20
T-Bone gives you his weekly Top 20 College Football poll for week 3 of the season
Jay Weezie's Top 20 College Poll
1.Alabama 2.FSU 3.Oklahoma 4.Auburn 5.Oregon 6.UCLA 7.Ohio st 8.Mich St 9.Notre Dame 10.Baylor 11.Stanford 12.Wisconsin 13.USC 14.Clemson 15.Ole Miss 16..South Carolina 17.Georgia 18.LSU 19.Nebraska 20.UNC
SEC East Race Runs Through Athens
We're barely 48 hours into the college football season, but one thing has already been settled. The SEC East race will run through Athens, Georgia. Two days removed from an opening night debacle that saw South […]
Ryan McGee Of ESPN The Magazine Talks SEC, ACC, BIG 10
Senior Writer at ESPN The Magazine Ryan McGee stopped by on Wednesday to discuss the upcoming college football season, the SEC, and college quarterbacks. Has the SEC has disproved the theory that you need an elite […]
Fox Sports South Jim Grobe Talks FSU And SEC vs ACC
Jim Grobe talks with Chris Kroeger from Primetime about Florida State's schedule this year, Virginia Tech's positioning on taking over the Coastal division, and if the ACC can ever compete with the SEC on a National level.
Gary Danielson Predicts Football Conferences To Not Make Final Four
CBS Sports Analyst Gary Danielson called into "The Mac Attack to discuss anything and everything about college football season starting back up for the 2014 season.
South Carolina's Spurrier Ready For Kickoff
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Steve Spurrier's done with talking season. He's ready to see No. 9 South Carolina live up to the high expectations its dealt with since finishing a third-straight 11-win season a year ago.
College Football Spotlight: 10 Thoughts For The 2014 College Football Season
Forget much of what you know about college football. The chase for one of the four playoff spots begins this weekend with a handful of high-profile games.
Travis Haney Of ESPN: "There Is More Uncertainty With More Teams Than We Are Used Too"
Travis Haney joins Primetime to talk about what team currently in the Top 10 that could finish outside the Top 10 at the end of the year, if Auburn will stay at the top of the heap in the SEC, and we finish by getting his "way too early Final Four" for the first year of the College Football Playoff.
Schools Invest Millions Preparing For SEC Network
The Southeastern Conference's new network debuts Thursday, promising more than 1,000 live events this year and a reach that includes most major television providers in the South.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
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