Thursday, July 31, 2008

The Daily Roundup: Thursday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:
Nightlife gets cool greeting in China: "Police have tight grip on clubs."

Beijing pollution better, more measures considered : "Chinese officials said Thursday that they would shut down more factories and take additional cars off the roads if current pollution curbs do not clear the city's air enough before next week's Olympic Games."

A Time to Look Back: "With his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Saturday, Redskins cornerback Darrell Green reflects on 20 NFL seasons, family and the evolution of the game."

The conference headlines:
Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer: ACC finally has coaching 'stability' -" Things won't be the same when this ACC football season begins in a month or so. "




Georgia Tech
Big man added to roster: "Senegal native Dieng admitted as graduate student, becomes 10th scholarship player for Jackets."

Coach: QB up for grabs: "Johnson hopes sophomore emerges as starter, but nothing is settled yet."

Tech linemen more agile under Johnson


Maryland
Five questions: Terps basketball recruiting

UM football recruiting notes

Terps football: "View photos of Maryland's projected starters, including junior receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey."


NC State
NCSU's O'Brien seeking some answers : "Coach Tom O'Brien's second preseason practices at N.C. State start today with modest expectations for the football season ahead, at least from the media."


North Carolina
Finding a new Connor Barth just one fo the priorities at training camp for UNC: "The fact North Carolina was picked to finish second in the Coastal Division affirmed the belief that the Tar Heels have enough talent to climb into the upper reaches of the ACC this season."


Wake Forest


Boston College
Needham native Hannigan makes switch to defense pay off for Boston College lacrosse team: "Emily Hannigan's outstanding performance as an athlete and student has earned the Boston College junior from Needham her coach's confidence, and a berth this spring on the Atlantic Coast Conference's All-Academic women's lacrosse team for the third consecutive season."



Miami
Coach Shannon continues to stamp program: "On Tuesday, UM coach Randy Shannon told a gathering of reporters that he plans..."


Duke
Duke women to host Stanford: "The Duke women's basketball team will host Stanford during the upcoming 2008-09 season, an athletic department spokesman said on Wednesday."

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Thursday, July 31, 2008 |

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:
Tire debacle brings apology : "NASCAR picks up the pieces after the Indianapolis race and starts working to prevent future trouble."


Michael Wilbon: It Can't Go Both Ways: "The Packers have made it clear that they no longer want Brett Favre as their starter, so the simple solution is here: trade him or cut him."


The conference headlines:
Sammy Batten of the Fayetteville Observer: Good wastes no time in picking N.C. State

2008 All-ACC Academic Baseball Team Announced: "ACC Baseball Scholar-Athlete of the Year Buster Posey of Florida State leads the 2008 All-Atlantic Coast Conference Academic Team as announced today by Commissioner John D. Swofford."

Q&A: Getting to Know... Clemson's Cullen Harper: "Clemson quarterback Cullen Harper is entering his second season as the starting quarterback. He has been chosen by the media as the ACC Preseason Player of the Year. The same media picked Clemson to win the ACC championship this season. He took time to sit down with theACC.com as he prepares for the start of camp."

Curtis Joins ACC Administrative Staff: "Atlantic Coast Conference Commissioner John Swofford announced today that Charlene Curtis, former Wake Forest head women's basketball coach, has been named as the league's Coordinator of Women's Basketball Officials."

2008 All-ACC Academic Women's Tennis Team Announced: "ACC Women's Tennis Scholar-Athlete of the Year Kristi Miller of Georgia Tech heads up the 2008 All-ACC Academic Women's Tennis Team, as announced today by Commissioner John D. Swofford."


Georgia Tech
Option stays regardless: "Coach says offense won't change even if Jackets struggle, but quarterback situation remains unclear."

Should athletes be paid?: "Some take issue with players not paid beyond scholarships, but the NCAA says education is pay."




NC State
Touch-ups before touchdowns : "Two days before Thursday's start of football practice, earth movers pushed dirt outside Carter-Finley Stadium as work on two projects proceeded with N.C. State's home opener just 5 1/2 weeks away."


Duke
Greene picks Duke: "Leesville defensive back Zach Greene is the son of a former N.C. State football player."


Wake Forest


Maryland
Terps Lure Coach: "Desmond Dunham resigns as head coach of the boys' and girls' cross- country and track and field teams at Eleanor Roosevelt to volunteer at the University of Maryland."



Clemson
Former Clemson star back in NBA: "Former Clemson standout Will Solomon has joined the NBA's Toronto Raptors."


Florida State

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Wednesday, July 30, 2008 |

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!
PHOTO: Go ahead....mess with Georgia Tech's Michael Johnson...we dare you!!!

Getting your mind right:
John Feinstein of the Washington Post: Army's Flip-Flop Is Unfair to Campbell

Art Monk's actions lead to honor : "The wide receiver did his job extremely well, catching more passes than anyone before him. Those who knew him well were outraged when the Washington Redskins player was passed over seven times in Pro Football Hall of Fame voting."

America's got talent: "The USA Basketball squad is loaded with the most talent since the '92 "Dream Team. But Kobe Bryant and company will be tested in every Olympic contest."

Spurrier: It's time to raise the bar :In three seasons at South Carolina, Steve Spurrier has gone 7-5, 8-5 and 6-6. By the school's standards, that's good work. But Spurrier's standards are not South Carolina's."


The conference headlines:
Dan Wiederer of the Fayetteville Observer: N.C. State taps Georgia pipeline

David Haugh of the South Florida Sun Sentinel: Now's not time for Hester to shine -"Now comes the hard part for Devin Hester."


Wake Forest
Florida defensive back commits to Deacons

Role Model: Brey says Prosser coached right way

Family is trying to find ways to cope with loss


Georgia Tech
GEORGIA'S ON HIS MIND : "Georgia Tech defensive end Michael Johnson gets ready for the upcoming season by pumping iron inside the Hugh Spruill Strength Center on campus. One game in particular might provide some extra motivation while working out - and it's stenciled on the mirror behind Johnson."

Tech baseball coach signs one-year extension

A's send ex-Tech star Murton to minors

Q&A with Tech running back Jonathan Dwyer

Jackets place three on preseason All-ACC team


Virginia
UVa's Barker charged

UVa gets another player from Tidewater region

UVa QB Lalich has date in court


Clemson
Fire sets Leggett’s lakefront home ablaze with damages: " The lakefront home of Clemson baseball coach Jack Leggett was heavily damaged by fire Sunday. Neither Leggett nor his wife or children were present when the blaze started."

Predictions only heighten expectations for Tigers: "Quarterback Cullen Harper (pictured) and running backs James Davis and C.J. Spiller were the top three vote-getters for the ACC's preseason player of the year. The Tigers open the season Aug. 30 against Alabama in the Georgia Dome. With preseason practice beginning Friday, The State examines 10 storylines for camp

Dolphins sign ex-Clemson star Merling
The Dolphins signed the eighth of their nine picks Friday, one day before the start of training camp.

New Clemson blog: Pawsitive Press: "The State's Clemson beat writer Paul Strelow blogs about Clemson University athletics."

IPTAY hauls in record $21 million

Trio of Tigers tag top of list


Virginia Tech
Hermitage pair headed to Virginia Tech


Duke
Duke teammates now brothers-in-law: "Duke wide receivers Ryan Wood and Matt Pridemore, who played together in high school, had felt like they were kin for a long time. And now they are, officially."


Miami
Ex-Hurricanes QB Kenny Kelly facing felony drug charges

UM hires assistant baseball coach: "Miami announced Monday it has hired Rey Fuentes as an assistant baseball coach. Fuentes, a former player and assistant coach at Barry University, will work with outfielders and hitters in addition to coaching first base for the Hurricanes."

Offense is deep as UM opens camp: "With UM practice opening next weekend, an intriguing 12-man battle looms at receiver, and all the skill positions are deeper. Some early chatter..."

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Tuesday, July 29, 2008 |

Monday, July 28, 2008

The Daily Roundup: Monday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!


PHOTO: Lorenzo Brown, the future of NC State basketball? He's one of the best in high school and the Pack just signed him.

Getting your mind right:
A bad day at Indy: Tire mishaps plague racers at Brickyard : "Debacle, fiasco, blunder: pick any word to describe yesterday's NASCAR-Goodyear screw-up here, but the 250,000 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway deserved ..."
\
The conference headlines:

Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer: Cutcliffe aggressive on X's, O's

Sammy Batton of the Raleigh News and Observer:Is UNC ready for giant step forward?

LENOX RAWLINGS of the Winston-Salem Journal: Smith continues to follow the path charted by Prosser


NC State

Top guard commits to Pack : "N.C. State secured one of its top class of 2009 recruiting targets Sunday morning when guard Lorenzo Brown of Roswell, Ga., told Wolfpack assistant coach Larry Harris he is committing to the Pack."


Wake Forest

A Year Without Skip


Miami
Bears' Hester gets reported $40 million extension
A half hour into his first practice of training camp Sunday, Devin Hester got behind cornerback Charles Tillman and hauled in a 40-yard pass from quarterback Rex Grossman.




Duke

Golfer Giuliani is suing Duke


More to come.......

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Monday, July 28, 2008 |

Friday, July 25, 2008

The Daily Roundup: Free Throw Friday


The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:
The Weekend Smoke from the StogieGuys.com: Stogie Reviews: Tatuaje Black- This is a great one, folks.

The Stars Have Aligned: "Jerry Colangelo has assembled the "Redeem Team," the U.S. men's basketball team headed to Beijing that, while star-studded, remains focused on one goal: gold."


The conference headlines:
Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer: Prosser a person, coach to remember: "Given the chance to have just one more conversation with Skip Prosser, Wake Forest basketball player Harvey Hale said Thursday that he first would update the late Deacons coach on the team's defensive progress during the 2007-08 season."


Wake Forest
Prosser's recruiting class keeps his memory alive: "When Tony Woods came off the court at the AAU tournament in Florida, the five-star recruit had an unsettling voicemail waiting for him."


NC State
Pack to play Marquette in basketball: "The N.C. State basketball team will play a home-and-away series with Marquette, starting on Dec. 22."


North Carolina
UNC's Balmer signs with Niners: "Kentwan Balmer, a late-blooming star at North Carolina, was the 29th overall pick in April. He is the last of the 49ers' six draft picks to sign."


Duke
Scott makes switch to Duke : "Shortly after his announcement earlier this summer that he wanted to play football for Rutgers, Hillside running back Desmond Scott started to think that he'd rather play closer to home."

More to come.......

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Friday, July 25, 2008 |

Thursday, July 24, 2008

The Daily Roundup: Thursday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:
Toyota boss faults change in rules for No. 2 series: "'I guess you can say they have excelled more than we anticipated,' NASCAR's Pemberton acknowledges. NASCAR's decision Wednesday to reign in Toyota's horsepower advantage in the Nationwide Series - which the automaker's top racing official said was without technical justification - is likely to fuel the perception the manufacturer would spend its way to competitive dominance."


Edwards gives ASU the edge: "Mountaineers quarterback returns to operate potent spread offense."

Fame as a pulpit: "The Gators' Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback said football is secondary to serving God, which is why he spent his offseason preaching around the world."


Homemade knife found in Lowe II's cell: "Sidney Lowe II is being held in the Guilford County Jail in Greensboro rather than being sent to a minimum-security prison farm camp as a judge ordered." Not a good start, Sid....not a good start.


The conference headlines:

Swofford defends league caliber: "Despite lacking a presence on a national scale, commissioner John Swofford adamantly defends the caliber of ACC football."


Wake Forest
Adams named to preseason All-ACC team : "Wake Forest tailback Josh Adams obviously made a big impression during his freshman football season at Wake Forest last fall. The former Cary High School standout has been named to the preseason All-ACC football team for 2008. "

Curry named to preseason All-ACC team: "The preseason honors kept rolling in Wednesday for Fayetteville’s Aaron Curry."


Clemson

Trio of Tigers tag top of list: "Harper, Davis, Spiller headline preseason player of the year ballot
Need proof for the lopsided expectations of Clemson’s offense compared to the rest of the ACC? Look no further than the preseason player of the year voting."

Alabama-Clemson game brings huge payday: "Alabama and Clemson will reportedly earn nearly $2 million apiece for their season-opening matchup in Atlanta."

Miami
Trio of UM recruits headed to prep school: "Three members of the University of Miami football team's top-rated recruiting class will be heading to Milford Prep in New York state this fall instead of Coral Gables, according to published reports."

UM's Shannon pleads for time ... Will he get it? : "Around this time last year, Miami Hurricanes coach Randy Shannon was all about selling the confidence he had in the football program."

Coker returns to the 'dark side': "It's not that bad, Larry. When introduced as the guest speaker Tuesday morning at the Sun Belt Conference Football Media Days, former University of Miami coach and current ESPN college football analyst Larry Coker cracked about joining the media ranks: ``I'm now part of the Heath Ledger/Joker/Batman dark side.''"


Georgia Tech

Dickey leaving Tech to play pro in Ukraine: Do you see a trend......these guys can make millions in Europe right now. You'll see more of this.

3 Jackets named All-ACC: "Offensive lineman Gardner, D-linemen Walker, Johnson named to conference's preseason squad."


North Carolina
Kenan Stadium plan moves ahead : "The University of North Carolina's Board of Trustees approved the design for a first phase of plans to substantially expand the Tar Heels' football stadium."




Florida State
Four Seminoles earn preseason honors: "Despite being relegated to the middle of the ACC pack, Florida State still managed to see four players receive preseason All-ACC honors during the league's just-completed media days."

White may have right stuff for FSU football: "Markus White was drawn to Florida State in part because of its location. Tallahassee is near his West Palm Beach home, but not too close."


NC State
Velez going for more than gold : "When Dan Velez dives in the pool at the Olympics next month, he'll be wearing more than a stylish swimsuit. The former N.C. State standout also will be wearing the tattooed title of a prayer on his left arm in memory of his father, Jose."


Virginia

Maryland



Virginia Tech

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Thursday, July 24, 2008 |

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

PHOTO: Clemson is #1 according to the ACC Coaches

Getting your mind right:
Mike Wise of the Washington Post on the Jason Taylor trade -Not Just a Pretty Face: "The Redskins didn't just acquire one of the NFL's elite defensive ends, they traded for an ambassador who could help lift an ailing franchise."

Ex-'Canes star Shockey dealt to Saints

Bobcats, Okafor at an impasse: "Source: Sign and trade might be the next step. As things stand now, Emeka Okafor will be an ex-Charlotte Bobcat by the end of next season, if not sooner."

Dan Wiederer of the Fayetteville Observer: A hot topic in college basketball

MIKE MULHERN of the Winston-Salem Journal: Dale Earnhardt Inc. loses its appeal to NASCAR

JOHN DELONG of the Winston-Salem Journal -Home is still Lewisville, despite son's success


The conference headlines:
ACC looks for vindication : "Despite recognition of its top players in the NFL draft, the expanded ACC has come up short on the field in competition against heavyweight conferences such as the SEC."

Clemson is preseason pick in ACC football poll: 'Wake Forest coach Jim Grobe called it “a little scary.’’ North Carolina’s Butch Davis wondered if a sobriety test should have been performed on the participants. And N.C. State coach Tom O’Brien simply said, “Consider the source.’’ They were talking about the ACC preseason poll."

Who influenced ACC coaches?

Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer: Bowden on borrowed time at FSU - "Near the end of the 1994 college football season, which was Florida State's third year as an ACC member, Seminoles coach Bobby Bowden made a prediction."

ACC copies NFL: "The ACC will look more like the NFL in one way this football season -- injury reports. The conference will adopt a standard guideline for reporting injuries during the week, associate commissioner Mike Finn said Monday at the ACC Kickoff. "


Virginia Tech
Hokies still toast of coast: "Virginia Tech picked to win ACC's Coastal Division."

Analysts like Va. Tech


Clemson
Clemson picked to win ACC crown: "Having finally stolen the mass audience from his legendary father, Clemson coach Tommy Bowden played the part. With legendary Florida State coach Bobby Bowden fielding questions about the Tigers’ ascension just a table away at the ACC Football Kickoff, his son was asked about his championship-less legacy entering a 10th season at Clemson."


Florida State
Weatherford ready to turn things around: "A relaxed, yet energetic Florida State quarterback Drew Weatherford said Sunday he is feeling strong enough physically after minor knee surgery to resume his role as starting quarterback."

Seminoles looking for a few good men: "In a way, Bobby Bowden acknowledged, cobbling together a lineup without seven suspended starters isn't much different from trying to navigate through a spate of injuries."

Bowden and Florida State in a downward cycle: "In a way, Bobby Bowden acknowledged, cobbling together a lineup without seven suspended starters isn't much different from trying to navigate through a spate of injuries."


North Carolina
UNC picked to finish 2nd in Coastal Division: "North Carolina coach Butch Davis didn't exactly plan a party to toast his Tar Heels' selection as the second-best team in the ACC's Coastal Division in the ACC Football Kickoff preseason poll released Monday, but Davis did wonder if some media voters were partying before casting their ballots."

Annual cellar-dweller turns into a trendy pick

Disgraced track star Marion Jones seeks reprieve : "Disgraced Olympic track star Marion Jones has asked President Bush to commute her six-month prison sentence for lying to federal agents about her use of performance-enhancing drugs and a check-fraud scam." Wow.....

Notebook: Little may shift focus to football : "It sounds like Greg Little will have a hard time convincing Butch Davis that he should play basketball again next season."

Mount Tabor pitcher commits to UNC


Duke
Simmons is latest to choose Duke: "Sanderson High coach Jason Tindal calls Duke's in-state football recruiting "turbo-charged.""


Boston College
Change of pace expected: "It is different now for Jeff Jagodzinski. Different, not easier. But if you listen to Boston College's football coach, anything is possible."


Miami
Hurricanes' Shannon: 'We'll be better': "Last year at about this time, new University of Miami football coach Randy Shannon stood in front of a packed crowd of 3,000 and promised to deliver a winning program."

Football Forecast: '08 predictions : "By now, you've thumbed through the magazines, read the predictions (The Canes were picked third in Coastal Division of…"

Talent drop-off? 'Canes say no : "The normally soft spoken Eric Moncur felt he needed to add an extra emphasis on the answer."

Miami gets another commitment


Georgia Tech
Ex-Navy coach Johnson brings option to Ga. Tech

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Tuesday, July 22, 2008 |

Monday, July 21, 2008

The Daily Roundup: Monday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!


PHOTO: The ACC Coaches met last week to discuss the upcoming season. Gotta love the South Park take on former Duke coach Ted Roof and The Fridge, to the left.




Getting your mind right:

Mike Wise of the Washington Post - Dancing With a Star: "Before accusing the Redskins of having a quick-trigger in trading for Jason Taylor, realize that it was a move they absolutely had to make."




Beijing curbs cars to clear the air in time for Olympics: "Authorities Sunday ordered half of Beijing's 3.3 million vehicles off city streets for two months in an experiment designed to remove a smoggy halo over the capital and ease traffic jams before the Summer Olympics."





The conference headlines:

ACC previews: Clemson • North Carolina


Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer- History favors Atlantic division: "The ACC's annual football media kickoff event began Saturday night with the players from the league's Coastal and Atlantic divisions competing in a putting tournament at one of the golf practice areas on the Reynolds Plantation resort."


Sammy Batten of the Fayetteville Observer: No Heisman hype in ACC preseason


Names you need to know heading into the ACC football season


Is the Triangle ready for some football? We'll see: "Put football and basketball on a balance scale to measure success for the Triangle's three Atlantic Coast Conference schools -- Duke, North Carolina and N.C. State -- and the difference isn't obvious, it's mind-boggling."





NC State

Pack hoops recruit a potential star

Elder Glennon tutors brother: "Freshman quarterback Mike Glennon should be well prepared when he reports to N.C. State after working out this summer with his brother, Sean Glennon, a quarterback who helped lead Virginia Tech to an ACC championship last season."






Wake Forest

Wake Forest's Curry was all-star that nobody wanted: " When Wake Forest linebackers coach Brad Lambert first saw video highlights of Aaron Curry back in 2003, he couldn’t understand why the E.E. Smith High School senior had only a single scholarship offer from East Carolina."


Wake Forest Corner Talks -- and Plays -- a Good Game





Boston College

New-look Eagles ready to go: "What can we expect from the Eagles in the 2008 season, which unofficially got underway with this weekend's ACC football kickoff meetings?"


Ravenous Purvis sets sights high


Clemson

Clemson defense still in search of an identity

Loss shapes bond for Clemson football duo: "Left to right, Daniel Andrews and Jamie Harper, both incoming Clemson football players, have been on the same team since elementary school. They share the lose of a parent to cancer and the love of football. The news came as Jamie Harper reached his public-speaking class late one March morning. His teacher had received a phone call with word that the father of Harper’s close friend and future Clemson football teammate Daniel Andrews Jr. had died after a relatively brief bout with cancer."

Playing favorites: "Rich Glickstein/rglickstein@thestate.com -->The Clemson football team practices Thursday morning for the Chik-fil-A Bowl at the Georgia Dome. Clemson junior quarterback No. 10 Cullen Harper tosses the ball warming up for practice. The upcoming ACC Football Kickoff is shaping up to be a Clemson lovefest."





Virginia Tech

Hokies off the schedule but still expect to see Tigers


Sean Glennon was there to represent Virginia Tech.



Hokies have Georgia on their minds



Hokies land 2 cagers for 2009-10 season





North Carolina
UNC's Nicks: NFL can wait: "Tar Heels wide receiver has pro dreams, but he first wants to ‘leave a trademark' at UNC."


Williams out front in UNC's underclassman leadership: "Deunta Williams was trying to keep a low profile on Sunday. The sophomore safety was North Carolina's defensive representative at the ACC's Football Kickoff at the Ritz-Carlton Lodge at Reynolds Plantation."


LT-Peppers: A tricky comparison: " Comparing talented football players always is risky, but it’s also fun. The best defensive player ever to come out of North Carolina, and the only UNC player in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, is Lawrence Taylor."

Williams prepares for great expectations in 2008




Duke
Duke's Oghobaase sets record straight about injury: "When Duke defensive tackle Vince Oghobaase tore the medial collateral ligament in his right knee in spring practice before his highly anticipated freshman year, the early diagnosis was that he would recover enough to make his debut when the 2005 season kicked off."





Maryland

Weekly Terps recruiting roundup





Virginia

Now a leading man: "John Phillips, newly elected co-captain, represented the Cavs at the ACC Football Kickoff."


Hampton guard opts for UVa





Georgia Tech

JOHNSON HOSTS CAMP : "Former Tech star wide receiver Calvin Johnson Jr. shows young wide receivers how to get past a defensive back on the line of scrimmage during his inaugural 2008 Wide Receiver Camp at Sandy Creek High School in Tyrone."


Tough blocking Tech-niques: "Senior tackle Gardner says opposing defenders will have hard time with Jackets' cut blocking."


Even 'NCAA 09' confused by Jackets' offense





Miami

UM coach will try fitting 3 into 2 for the QB job : "What used to be one of the surest bets in college football has become even more curious."


At UM, it's two for the show


A cancer-free UM?: "Greetings from ACC Media. Today we got to meet with the..."


UM Football: "Canes seek anattitude change. Sheriff Shannon has some new deputies. And the deputies have a new motto: ``No excuses.'' University of Miami left tackle Jason Fox and defensive end Eric Moncur told reporters Sunday at the ACC Football Kickoff that they are part of a new, seven-player council that keeps close tabs on fellow players and doles out punishments for breaking rules."

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Monday, July 21, 2008 |

Friday, July 18, 2008

Goodbye, Billy Packer

I know I'm late to this story. But, then, I've been MIA from the blog for a while so it's of little consequence. And I do so desperately wish to include my two cents regarding Billy Packer's departure from CBS and the Final Four.

In a word: Yippee!!!

I signed onto the fire Billy Packer bandwagon many moons ago. And I've advocated his firing on this blog and elsewhere to anyone who would listen. For the most part, my criticism is that he's a condescending scold. Yes, he's stuck in the 1960s. And, yes, he's a Wake Forest partisan who can't seem to get over his UNC and Duke hatred. But that's not what gets my goat.

What gets me worked up is his insufferable attitude. He's been quoted as saying about himself that he is "often wrong but never in doubt" without the slightest hint of sarcasm or irony. And any man who can say that is likely a self-righteous prick.

I remember hating Dick Vitale in the late 1980s. Then I saw him give a speech to the McDonald's All-Americans in which he was a truly passionate advocate for those young men. He was not self-aggrandizing. He was humble and genuine. And in that one speech I learned that Dick Vitale is, while still annoying, a decent person who wishes well to those he covers.

Billy Packer has never given such a speech. I cannot remember watching a Billy Packer-announced game in which at some point I did not want to mute him* because of his petulance. Packer never seemed to be joyful. Sure, he was a knowledgeable basketball guy. But his every utterance screamed: "Listen to how much I know about basketball." He's simply the most annoying broadcaster to whom I've ever listened and, because I love college basketball, could not escape.**

I'm not sure that Clark Kellogg is the answer for CBS, btw. I can only listen to a man say "Squeeze the Orange" so many times. But anything will be better than listening to Billy Packer cover another Final Four.

Now, if only Raycom would do the right thing and get him off of ACC games, I'd be completely pleased.

*I can't hear the TV when I'm yelling at Packer anyway, so there's no need to mute him.

**Bill Walton is perhaps more annoying. But he doesn't do high-profile events that I must watch. His Grateful Dead schtick is garbage, but I know where the mute button is when he makes a halftime appearance!!

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Birkel at Friday, July 18, 2008 |

The Daily Roundup: FreeThrowFriday

The BEST ACC Sports coverage!!!


Getting your mind right:
The Weekend Smoke from the StogieGuys.com: Stogie Reviews: Toraño Virtuoso Encore


Staying on task: "James Otey never let go of his college basketball hopes."


The conference headlines:
Playing favorites: "The upcoming ACC Football Kickoff is shaping up to be a Clemson lovefest."

For now, football coaches keep it light ... mostly: "The smiles might not come as easily when practice starts in a couple weeks. Or after that first loss."

Miami
UM coach will try fitting 3 into 2 for the QB job : "What used to be one of the surest bets in college football has become even more curious."

Two for the show: "UM coach Randy Shannon said whether Robert Marve or Jacory Harris wins the starting quarterback job, both will get playing time this upcoming season."

The two-QB system fad:"If folks are saying that 30 is the new 20, then the two-quarterback system is."

Jacory Marve? : "I'm not in Tampa for the Florida Sports Writers Association College Football..."


Virginia Tech


Clemson

Ex-Clemson LB to join Div. II program: "Former Clemson linebacker Cortney Vincent has signed to play at Tarleton State, a Division II program in Stephonville, Texas. Vincent, a senior who started 12 games at middle linebacker this past season, was dismissed from the Tigers in May after failing to earn reinstatement from suspension."


Duke
Cutcliffe cuts up with area coaches : "Duke coach David Cutcliffe was the new man on the dais this year and showed no signs of stage fright sitting with N.C. State's Tom O'Brien, UNC's Butch Davis and N.C. Central's Mose Rison."


Georgia Tech
Jackets getting defensive: "Mr. CFB wonders what Tech's defense will look like under its new coordinator."

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Friday, July 18, 2008 |

Thursday, July 17, 2008

The Daily Roundup: Thursday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:
Jennings Signs in Italy: "Former Oak Hill Academy standout Brandon Jennings signs a multi- year, multi-million dollar contract with Pallacanestro Virtus Roma."

AP Source: Packers allege tampering by Vikings : "The Green Bay Packers have filed tampering charges against the Minnesota Vikings alleging the team made inappropriate contact with Brett Favre, a person familiar with the Packers' complaint told The Associated Press Wednesday night."

Posey bolts for Hornets: "Forward James Posey agreed to a four-year, $25 million contract with the New Orleans Hornets yesterday, leaving the Celtics after helping them win their 17th NBA championship in his only season in Boston."

Bob Ryan of the Boston Globe - Things to keep in mind: "James Posey walked the championship walk in both Miami and Boston, and we'll tell the Hornets what Pat Riley told us: You will like him in the regular season and you will love him in the money games."

C-USA picks Pirates second in division: "East Carolina is again expected to contend for a Conference USA football championship after two straight years where the Pirates had late-season chances to win the league."


The conference headlines:
JOHN DELL of the Winston-Salem Journal: Deacs land two football commitments

Scott Sexton of the Winston-Salem Journal - What a deal! Coach's son scored big one before judge - We must admit.......he got a large break...very large.




North Carolina
Heels go back to school : "When Sean May was a star forward at North Carolina, he often could be found slouched in the back of his classes, just trying to get through his seminars and to the next Tar Heels practice. But now he sits front and center at UNC each summer."

Wright makes right decision: "Ex-Heel happily adjusts to NBA life."


Clemson
Clemson football tickets: Money can't solve everything: "Windfall donations sweep ticket office, but all requests for better seats can’t go through. As the Clemson ticket office waded through requests for upgraded football seats, numerous customers provided lists of 20-plus prioritized choices if their first option did not pan out — some color-coded for convenience. Those fans, as well as many others, might be disappointed when season tickets arrive in the mail in mid-August."

Purnell creates cancer fundraiser: "Clemson basketball coach Oliver Purnell watched a decade ago as his grandfather, whom he considered a parent, died following a painful bout with prostate cancer. His grandmother also succumbed to breast and brain cancer."


Duke
Out of gate quickly?: "If I've heard it once, I've heard it about 200 times already. David Cutcliffe better win his first game at Duke, against James Madison on Aug. 30 at Wallace Wade Stadium."


Maryland

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Thursday, July 17, 2008 |

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:
Sidney Lowe's son sentenced to 15 months: After an emotional plea by N.C. State basketball coach Sidney Lowe that his son be granted mercy from a judge, Sidney Lowe II was sentenced Tuesday to 15 months at a Guilford County prison farm.

Trevor Graham banned for life : "Track coach Trevor Graham received a lifetime ban from the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency on Tuesday for his role in helping athletes obtain performance-enhancing drugs."

Favre tempted to show up at Packers camp: "Brett Favre says he's tempted to show up at the Green Bay Packers' training camp just to call the team's "bluff."

Posey wants a four-year deal: "Free agent James Posey is treating negotiations as if this could be his final contract."

Aaron McFarling of the Roanoke News: Favre debacle dredges up flaw


The conference headlines:
JOHN DELONG of the Winston-Salem Journal: LaRue's league is a good thing for Deacs


Clemson
Bowden calls early praise premature: "Even with the pieces in place, Tigers must still produce wins, Tigers coach says. Nearly every item Clemson coach Tommy Bowden would include on a perfect program blueprint — facilities, graduation rates, staff stability, discipline, season ticket sales — he said Tuesday he believes he can check off."


North Carolina
No regrets heading to NBA: "Brandan Wright is preparing to be in Golden State's rotation, more than a year after leaving North Carolina."

Sammy Batten of the Fayetteville Observer: Elite WR considering FSU, Pembroke


Duke
Nelson auditions for NBA : "Knocking on all the doors that might lead to an NBA roster spot could take longer than a few months for former Duke standout DeMarcus Nelson."


Maryland
Former Terps signee Bass enrolls at Memphis


Georgia Tech
Glen Rice Jr. eyes Tech: "Walton standout, son of NBA star, has Jackets, Miami on basketball recruiting short list."

Touted Florida TE hasn't heard from Tech

Tech LB: Coaches on same page this year

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Wednesday, July 16, 2008 |

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!
PHOTO: Although we suspect many agree with this agravated Tar Heel fan, Packer will be missed in the college game.

Getting your mind right:
Packer won't return to CBS : "Billy Packer, the man whom many considered college basketball's know-it-all, has known for more than a year that the 2007-08 season would be his last as CBS' lead analyst."

Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer: Brashness set Packer apart: " Go ahead. Laugh when you read this, but college basketball fans will miss Billy Packer. "

Michael Wilbon : "A Pro in College Game: "Billy Packer has faced criticism during his 27 years at CBS, but no one has been as complete a critic or as good at explaining and analyzing the college basketball game."

Intensity is priority for Bobcats: "New Bobcats coach Larry Brown says guaranteed contracts don't guarantee playing time on his team. A guaranteed contract won't equal guaranteed minutes. That was Charlotte Bobcats coach Larry Brown's message Monday, delivered during a vivid mid-practice lecture."

Favre debacle dredges up flaw: "Favre's potential return to the league brings into full light the NFL and the conundrum of the one-sided contract."


The conference headlines:
Dascenzo of the Durham Herald Sun: Ellington expects his stock to rise: "Wayne Ellington, North Carolina's 6-4 rising junior, saw it coming Monday at the media room in the Smith Center, which was full of individuals wondering just what planet the Tar Heels are on."


NC State

Hickson makes big impression: "Cleveland Cavaliers assistant John Kuester was on a roll Monday, thinking up new ways to praise rookie J.J. Hickson. Former Wolfpack center scores 26."

Jack Britt's Proctor commits to N.C. State: "Jack Britt High School’s Everett Proctor started the recruiting process as an athlete, but he ended it as a quarterback prospect. The Fayetteville Observer’s 2007 Cape Fear region Player of the Year made an oral commitment to N.C. State on Monday, a decision he based in part on the Wolfpack’s offensive style."


North Carolina
Heels hope to learn from a variety of experiences: "Monday was the 100th day since North Carolina tanked in the first half against Kansas in the Final Four. Marcus Ginyard hadn't really thought about the ghastly performance until he was asked about it during a meeting with reporters Monday afternoon at the Smith Center."



Clemson
Track star turns focus to football: "Freshman safety hangs up his track spikes as he goes for a starting position for the Tigers. Three weeks ago, Spencer Adams lost his claim to the nation’s top time by a junior athlete for the 110-meter hurdles time. He bowed out with an eye on the taller hurdle in his path."

Clemson loses a coaching legend: "Clemson Sports Information -->I.M. Ibrahim is the only Clemson coach to win two national titles, with the men’s soccer team. -->There were an abundance of stories Clemson men’s soccer coach Trevor Adair wanted to share about his predecessor, I.M. Ibrahim, who died Saturday at age 67. But he chose one he believed summed up the kind of man Ibrahim was.-

Ex-Tiger retires from pros for priesthood: "A June 18, 2008, photo released by the New England Revolution shows defender Chase Hilgenbrinck in Foxborough, Mass. Hilgenbrinck left the Revolution and retired from professional soccer on Monday, July 14, 2008, to enter a seminary.
When he was playing professional soccer in Chile, Chase Hilgenbrinck would seek comfort in the churches to satisfy his spiritual needs and remind him of childhood Sundays spent at Holy Trinity in his hometown of Bloomington, Ill."
Clemson bulks up training staff: "Clemson has added trainers for its men's basketball and baseball teams."


Georgia Tech
JACKETS COMING TOGETHER : "Georgia Tech linebacker Anthony Barnes (No. 12, right) is convinced the Yellow Jackets' defense and chemistry will be improved this season."


Wake Forest

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Tuesday, July 15, 2008 |

Monday, July 14, 2008

The Daily Roundup: Monday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:
Growing Pains for ACC: "The ACC's expansion has only elevated expectations in the short term, but it should raise the level of competition at smaller schools as the conference gets more exposure."


Rookie stands tall enough: "D.J. Augustin is getting to the rim just fine, and assists will come with time. Maybe size doesn't matter. Charlotte Bobcats rookie D.J. Augustin has grown tired of all the scrutiny concerning his 6-foot height. It's never been a hindrance in the past, Augustin says, and based on his first two summer-league games might it won't be in the NBA, either."

Sidney Lowe Lowe II will be in court today : "Today, the younger Lowe is expected in Superior Court in Greensboro to face multiple felony charges that include aiding and abetting attempted armed robbery, possession of stolen goods and second-degree kidnapping. " Word is he will plead guilty. Sad, sad day fro the Lowe family.



The conference headlines:
Maryland



Georgia Tech
Tech lands hoops recruit: "6-foot-8 Holsey chose the Jackets over ACC rivals Clemson and Florida State."

JACKETS' CHANCES: Tech couldn't muster much of an offense against the Hokies last season. How will the Jackets, under new coach Paul Johnson, fare against Virginia Tech and the rest of the schedule?



Miami
5 most important (No. 1) "We've finally reached the top spot of the most important factors for the success...July 11, 2008 12:14 PM EDT "

5 most important (No. 2) :"No doubt, the most talked about position will be quarterback. Coach Randy...July 10, 2008 11:57 AM EDT "

5 most important (No. 3):"Let's face it. The Hurricanes had one of the worst offenses in the ACC, maybe..."


Florida State
From Andrew Carter's Chopping Block:


Clemson
Former Clemson coach dies"Dr. I.M. Ibrahim, the only Clemson coach in any sport to win two national championships, died Saturday in Seneca. Ibrahim coached the Clemson men’s soccer program from its inception in 1967 until 1994."

Beijing and pros beckon Padgett:"Darvis Patton, left, crosses the finish line ahead of Travis Padgett who placed second in the second heat of the men's 100 meter semifinals at the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials in Eugene, Ore., Sunday, June 29, 2008. Right is Jeffery Demps.
Had Clemson sprinter Travis Padgett followed through on his commitment, he would probably be gearing up for Duke’s fall football practices instead of the Olympics."


Virginia Tech

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Monday, July 14, 2008 |

Friday, July 11, 2008

The Daily Roundup:Free Throw Friday

The BEST ACC Sports coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:
The Weekend Smoke from the Stogieguys.com: Stogie Reviews: Avo Maduro Piramide

Teams push ticket scalping : "The Carolina Hurricanes and other pro sports franchises are supporting a bill that would let fans buy scalped tickets over the Internet for North Carolina games and shows."

Ownership leads Stewart to move on: "Tony Stewart was given an opportunity -- literally -- he couldn't refuse."

ECU suspends linebacker Joyner: "East Carolina football coach Skip Holtz has suspended freshman linebacker Max Joyner for breaking a team rule."

Welcome to Summer Camp: "The life of an assistant coach is filled with repetitive 16-hour days of traveling from city to city, camp to camp scouting and making yourself visible to hundreds of basketball prospects."

The conference headlines:
Reliving Tech's Golden oldies: "Matt Winkeljohn of the AJC notes the recent passing of Jake Rudolph has evoked memories of days gone by."


Duke
Ex-Duke football, PGA player dies: "Years before Al Geiberger became golf's famous "Mr. 59" in 1977, there was Mike Souchak, the PGA Tour's "Mr. 60" for almost a quarter of a century."




Miami
ESPN to produce documentary on UM football: "ESPN announced Thursday it is making a documentary on the University of Miami football program to air sometime next year. the network said in a statement." That should be cool....


Maryland


Virginia


North Carolina
Smithfield-Selma duo likes fit at UNC : "Smithfield-Selma football coach Anthony Barbour knew Justin Dixon and D.J. Bunn could be special players when they reported for practice four years ago as freshmen."

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Friday, July 11, 2008 |

Thursday, July 10, 2008

The Daily Roundup: Thursday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!
PHOTO: Titletown...Chapel Hill?!?!? Apparently ESPN thinks they have a shot. What say you basketbloggers...is Chapel Hill, at least, the title town of the ACC? Take it to the comments section.

Getting your mind right:
Stephen Curry works on leadership : "This is a pivotal summer for Davidson star Stephen Curry, who is likely to show up on some first-team All-America squads when preseason basketball magazines hit the stands. As a sophomore last season, he averaged 25.9 points and set the NCAA season record with 162 3-pointers." Smart move....too small to play the two guard on the next level, but what a weapon he could be as a jump shooting point.

Michigan will help coach pay: "Former West Virginia University football coach Rich Rodriguez and the University of Michigan have agreed to pay a $4 million buyout and settle a lawsuit that WVU filed after he broke his contract."

76ers sign Brand to $82 million deal : "Elton Brand believed his career would end as an L.A. Story. Forced by a contract ultimatum Brand would not accept, the would-be movie mogul and two-time NBA All-Star instead opted to take his production east and see his name roll on the credits of Philadelphia's roster."

Duhon signs with Knicks, may start at point guard: "Chris Duhon is coming to compete for the New York Knicks' starting point guard job. Nobody is saying yet if that competition will be against Stephon Marbury."


He's Fighting for His Life: "Tony Thompson's rocky path to boxing started as a way to support his family, but it could pay off with the heavyweight title after the reluctant fighter's bout with Wladimir Klitschko on Saturday night."

Stewart, Gibbs agree to part : "The two-time Cup champion decides he wants a chance to own his own team."

Dustin Long of the Roanoke News: JGR exit fits long-term plan


The conference headlines:
DASCENZO: Look for fireworks at Kenan: "Once described by several coaches as a sleeping giant in football, North Carolina hasn't won an ACC title since 1980, hasn't enjoyed a winning season since 2001 and has had five head coaches in the last 25 years -- but so what."


Clemson
McDaniel accuser not dropping chargesWoman’s attorney says she is intent on pursuing case against player. An attorney for the woman accusing Clemson football player DeAndre McDaniel of assault said Wednesday his client intends to continue pursuing the charges.

Author dubs USC-Clemson the nation's most underrated football rivalry: USC Gamecocks vs. Clemson Tigers -->Ivan Maisel's indoctrination into Palmetto State football came in 1981 during his days as a reporter at the Atlanta Constitution."

Dorman lineman commits to Clemson."Offensive lineman Brandon Thomas (6-4, 285) of Dorman committed to Clemson on Wednesday."

Former Clemson safety lands at Samford: "Former Clemson safety lands at Samford Former Clemson receiver Jeff Ogren, former Memphis quarterback Matt Malouf and former LSU tight end J.D. Lott have transfered to Samford in Birmingham, Ala. the school announced Tuesday."


Florida State
From Andrew Carter's Chopping Block Blog:
Season preview: Running backs

Miami
James Jones excited about Miami Heat homecoming : "It wasn't a case of James Jones offering his services at a hometown discount."

UM, Dolphins add logo; J.J., ex-Canes reach out: "On rare occasions, if enough fans complain about something, they can make a difference. That happened at UM this week, and Canes fans should give themselves (and the athletic department) a hand."

5 most important (No. 3): "Let's face it. The Hurricanes had one of the worst offenses in the ACC, maybe..."

5 most important (No. 4) : "Today, we stay on the offensive side of the ball. Two years ago, the..."

Kirby Hocutt to fans: We got U: "The early scouting report on newly-hired UM athletic director Kirby Hocutt is he..."


Duke
Duke's Cragg promoted: "Administrator rewarded for 21 years of service to school."


North Carolina
'Titletown' nominee: Chapel Hill: "University of North Carolina fans will have a chance to prove to the country what they already believe -- that Chapel Hill is the capital of sports in this country."


Georgia Tech
Paging longtime Tech fans: "Matt Winkeljohn is searching for venerable Yellow Jacket supporters from the early 1950s."

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Thursday, July 10, 2008 |

Wednesday, July 09, 2008

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:
Beijing has lots of work ahead : "With one month to go before the Olympics open Aug. 8, China's work is hardly complete."

Vick files for bankruptcy protection: "Attorney says imprisoned Falcons QB is in a "precarious financial position"


Alternate Path to NBA: "Instead of submitting to the NBA's age requirement by the typical route point guard Brandon Jennings is considering playing overseas."

Bobcats back home in the gym: "It's where former Tar Heel Larry Brown is ageless, boundless and in full control."

Truex fined 150 points for failing inspection : "Martin Truex's bid to make the Chase for the championship took a severe hit Tuesday when NASCAR penalized his Dale Earnhardt Inc. team 150 points for bringing an illegal car to Daytona."



The conference headlines:
Sammy Batten of the Fayetteville Observer - Heels add some familiar names


NC State
Pack prefers 5-year pacts : "N.C. State basketball coach Sidney Lowe won't get a contract extension as athletic director Lee Fowler tries to keep coaches' deals in line."


North Carolina
Tar Heels a hot ticket: "North Carolina's football season tickets for '08 are sold out."

Lawson's day in court delayed: "North Carolina point guard Ty Lawson had his first court appearance on a driving after consuming alcohol charge continued Tuesday until early August."


Duke
Duke football players, coaches clean up campus: "When David Cutcliffe couldn't sleep in the wee hours of the morning before he interviewed for Duke's vacant football job, Cutcliffe headed to campus to see the school for the first time in his life."


Georgia Tech

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Wednesday, July 09, 2008 |