Top Ten Packers

The NFL Network’s Top Ten Green Bay Packers:

 

10. FB Jim Taylor #31

9. OG PK Jerry Kramer #64

8. WR James Lofton #80

7. CB Herb Adderly #26

6. HB PK Paul Hornung #5 (above, kicking)

5. MLB Ray Nitscke #66

4. DT Reggie White #92

3. QB Bart Starr #15 two Super Bowl MVPs (above, holding)

2. QB Brett Farve #4 League MVP

1. FL PK DB Don Hutson #14

 

Best of the rest: Forrest Gregg, Jim Ringo, Vince Lombardi, Curly Lambeau, Mike Holmgren, Aaron Rodgers, Lynn Dickey, Don Makowski. No mention of Dave Robinson.

 

Hutson was the best player of his era by far, perhaps the greatest football player in history. Farve set many career passing records. Starr won two Super Bowl MVPs. White turned the franchise around and led the Packers to the Super Bowl. Nitscke epitomized Lombardi’s tough defense. Hornung scored 174 points in 14 games, and could run, pass, block, and kick. Adderly was moved from running back to defense and became a hall of famer. Lofton was the best receiver of his era. Kramer’s block won the Ice Bowl. Taylor was just as good as Hornung.    

People People

Interesting focus group on statements Georgia Power should make concerning the closing and handling of possibly toxic coal ash ponds around the state. Some people of various backgrounds and ages and ethnic groups seem to have a hard time putting themselves into someone else’s shoes, following instructions, and determining which phrases in a statement are the most important. Some took everything with a negative outlook, demanding a course of action without thinking about the cost or consequences. Some trusted government agencies to do the right thing more than Georgia Power, when the information we were given clearly stated the EPA did not have sufficient guidelines in place to address the situation.

I’m not sure what it would take to favorably impress some of the people. These were the type people to jump to conclusions without all the information, the type people posting on the AJC’s Facebook about Chickfila. One lady was a counselor. Based on her opinions and negative outlook, I would hate to be paying for advice from her. I may have been speaking up too much in the group session, and I tried to dial back to give others every chance to talk. I would only speak up when no one else was saying anything. I did make everyone laugh when I compared a statement to telling your wife that “I love you right now, but I’m not sure I’ll love you in the future.”  

Most focus groups are filled with several people I consider to be smarter than myself. Last night’s group wasn’t that way. They are interesting to see people from all kinds of backgrounds, and most are able to get by despite hardships far worse than I have to endure.

  

Read an article about a guy who drank a gallon of water a day for 30 days. He did it as an assignment for his magazine. Made him feel great (more energy, etc) but he thought it was too much, so he cut down after the 30 days were over. One gallon is 128 ounces, or four 32 ounce cups. During the summer I would get the RaceTrac cup filled up in the morning with zero calorie Vitamin Water, and sometimes in the afternoon. It is close to 32 ounces. If I did it at lunch as well and twice on the way home, I would be drinking a gallon a day.

Did you see Kobe’s 60 point game last night? That was something, him taking 50 shots, one more than Jordan’s most ever. Wilt took like 63 shots in his 100 point game. David Robinson once had a big last game of the year when he was trying to win the scoring title. I wonder how many shots he took that night.

What do you think about Golden State breaking the Bulls’ record? Interesting that Steve Kerr was a part of both teams.

Someone messed up Tuesday, then left after lunch for a doctor’s appointment. That left me to spend the entire rest of the afternoon in meetings cleaning up the mess, so much of my work didn’t get done. Worked until 6:30. Spent most of Thursday cleaning up someone else’s mess that should’ve been cleaned up weeks ago. Friday I cleaned up another old mess, figured out what was missing from a report, entered a big credit, and was charged with training the region on the correct way to cost orders. All in addition to the things I normally have to get done. Monday will be another busy day.

Tuesday night: Ceil cooked spaghetti, broccoli, and mixed vegetables. Watched Jeopardy and The Voice. I worked on the computer and cleaned the kitchen. M went to his bible study. He’s been carrying around a book for his summer internship. For what C paid in airfare we would’ve saved money for us all to have driven out there. Then I could’ve gone, but that would’ve meant I would’ve missed the Masters.

Tuesday while eating lunch my plastic fork broke. It had been cracked for a while. Wednesday I had leftover spaghetti for lunch that I had to eat with a spoon.

Wednesday night M baked a buffalo chicken pizza. C cooked mixed vegetables and chicken spaghetti.  

Thursday night I worked until 6:40. M went to get gas for the lawnmower for me, before he drove off to a pre-prom event. C had a dinner with other moms from her school. When I got home I cut the grass and blew the drive. Wasn’t finished until almost nine. Worked on the laptop after that.

Tonight before M’s prom all the kids are gathering at our house for pictures, since the prom is at the nearby Chattahoochee Nature Center. Gotta work on taxes Saturday. Sunday C and I might go to Athens (for the softball bobblehead).  

Lots of people commenting on the Braves losing streak. Not me. Too much other stuff going on like the Masters and NBA. Braves have played less than 4% of their schedule and everyone is panicking. Not like football where one game is almost 10% of your season. More of that win now at all costs mentality. Fredi is coming under fire for some of his decisions. Last year management told fans there would be improvement in 2016 over 2015. The quote was “you won’t see another season like that.” If they’re worse someone will have to be held responsible. Probably Fredi. He probably pulled the starter too soon last night.

Top Ten New York Giants

The NFL Network’s Top Ten New York football Giants.

 

10. RB 21 Tiki Barber NYG leading career rusher

9. QB 11 Phil Simms Super Bowl MVP

8. MLB 53 Harry Carson schooled LT

7. QB 10 Eli Manning 2 time Super Bowl MVP

6. LB 70 Sam Huff HOF

5. C 7 Mel Hein MVP HOF

4. HB FL PK DB 16 Frank Gifford MVP HOF (above)

3. DE 92 Michael Strahan HOF all-time sack leader

2. OT 79 Roosevelt Brown HOF

1. OLB 56 Lawrence Taylor HOF

 

Best of the Rest: quarterbacks Fran Tarkenton, Charlie Connerly, and YA Tittle, head coaches Tom Coughlin and Bill Parcells, assistant coaches Tom Landry and Vince Lombardi, tight end Mark Bravaro, punter Sean Landetta, LB Carl Banks.

I did not make note of the top ten Super Bowls, or the top ten Super Bowl plays.

Masters Sunday Timeline

2:30: Rory’s drive on the tough par four 3rd rolls onto the green and snakes around toward the hole. Jim Nantz says what I’m thinking: that’s the best tee shot I’ve ever seen on three.

2:33: Speith walks to the first tee, giving five to every young fan who offers their hand.

2:54 Rory emerges from the bamboo with a huge grin after making a great recovery shot on the par three 4th hole.

3:03 Shane Lowry makes a hole in one on 16.

3:09 Billy Horschel sinks his approach shot on eight for an eagle.

3:19 Soren Kjeldsen of Denmark sinks his second long putt of the day, becoming one of three players under par. On Saturday Soren had played in the third from the last group, with Brandt Snedeker. After his tee shot on 14 he veered right and animatedly greeted a large group of friends.

3:24 As Spieth lined up his approach on three a huge roar was heard over at 16: Ryder Cup captain Davis Love III made his own hole in one.

5:02 Kuchar pulls a Tiger (and Davis Love III before him) chipping in from behind the green on 16. Spieth’s fourth straight birdie (on 6, 7, 8, and 9) extends his lead to five shots.

5:11 Louie Giglio’s pal Louis Oosthuizen’s tee shot on 16 rolls into playing partner JB Holmes’ ball – and then into the cup for the third hole in one of the day. Would’ve been something had both balls rolled into the cup.

5:34 Danny Willett’s birdie puts him two behind Spieth just after Jordan’s approach on 11 almost rolls in. Spieth missed the par putt, then miss-hit his tee ball (and his second shot) on 12 into Rae’s Creek. His next shot rolled into the bunker.

5:48 Just after Spieth putts for a quadruple bogey and Willett makes his par, Lee Westwood chips in for eagle 15. Willett leads (-4) followed by Westwood (-3) then Dustin Johnson (-2), with Speith and Snedecker at (-1).

5:59 Willett birdies 16 to take a two shot lead. Spieth’s approach on 13 rolls off the back of the green. Dustin makes a brilliant recovery on 15. Westwood bogies 16.

6:03 Dustin birdies 15 (-4). Speith birdies 13 (-2) then hits his tee shot into the trees to the left of the 14th fairway. Willett’s approach on 17 rolls off the back of the green. Rory birdies 18 to finish one over.

6:30 As Spieth hits his third shot close on 15, Willett finishes 18 at 5 under. Westwood finished 2 under. Dustin rams his short bogey putt too hard. His double drops him to -2 after 17. Jordan sinks his six foot birdie putt to draw within two shots with three to play.

6:44 Spieth misses his birdie putt on 16.

6:58 Spieth bogies 17. In the clubhouse a joyous Willett facetimes his wife back home in England, and accepts hugs from friends. Langer finishes a long day bogey bogey.

7:09 Poor Smylie Kaufman finishes four over for the last three holes, eight over for the tournament. Spieth’s par putt ends it. He walks off studying his scorecard, slapping few hands. He kindly asks the camera to get out of his face. Tough day for the defending champion.

More on the Masters

The Chicago Tribune, among others, published an article about Augusta National club member / marker Jeff Knox, the guy who played with Bubba Watson on Saturday and Kevin Na on Sunday. Under Saturday's tough conditions Knox shot 80. On 12 his shot rolled into the water, and he did not slow things down by hitting a penalty shot. Sounds like his son got in trouble with the club for talking to Sports Illustrated, and he did not talk to the Tribune. The Chicago paper called the group of patrons near the 13th hole "a mob" – a term I'm sure Billy Payne would have a problem with.
http://ftw.usatoday.com/2016/04/2016-masters-jeff-knox-bubba-watson-marker

Interesting to see how some of the behind the scenes things work at the Masters. Did you notice the guys dressed in white coveralls with yellow flags? There was one on the 14th tee who would wave his flag when the group on the 13th hole would finish, to signal the group behind them to proceed. Similar guys were in the fairways, signaling that groups could tee off. Interesting the signal was given even while the group was walking off the green, since the players about to hit would still take time with their warm-up shots.

Speaking of the yellow flag wavers – on Sunday Rory McIlroy made a great tee shop on the 3rd hole, the short uphill par four. The ball landed on rolled onto the right part of the green, then trickled down toward the hole. Jim Nantz quipped that it was the best tee shot he'd ever seen on the hole. Having watched most of the field attempt the same shot at the one Sunday round I attended, I would have to agree with Nantz. A few minutes later another golfer tried to do the same, but his drive rolled off the back of the green – past the two golfers and caddies who had just exited the green on the way up to the 4th tee.

Read several articles in Golf World magazine, including the one on the autograph hound from Atlanta. If I did that I'd be sure to dress like a golfer, or a golf patron. Interesting comments from Nicklaus and other golfers. 

I showed the article about the amateur DeChambeau to Ceil. ESPN had done a segment on the kid from SMU, who tries to swing every club exactly the same way. All his clubs are the same length. Glad he didn't wear his Hogan cap Sunday evening in the Butler Cabin. I wonder if Nantz already knew DeChambeau's answer when he asked his future plans. Considering the kid was being honored as the low amateur, Nantz put him on the spot to admit in front of Billy Payne that he was turning pro for this week's Hilton Head tourney. DeChambeau finished 21st – guaranteeing him an invitation to the 2017 Masters.

Good thing I didn't wear that Masters visor Saturday. The wind would've blowed it off. I had a great time. I'd never watched action there at the 13th hole, or the 17th green, so that was a treat. Also getting to see the final group on 13, 14, 15, 17, and a little of 18 was special as well. Standing behind Rory when he made that shot from the 15th fairway was amazing.

I was remembering that final round I went to a few years ago with Will. We arrived about the same time as we did Saturday and stayed to the end on 18. We stood the entire time – over nine hours. I wouldn't have wanted a repeat of that. The grandstand was kinda fun with all the people coming and going.

Where W&MC are moving next month is only 7/10 of a mile from Augusta National. He can at least probably get into a practice round next year.

Saturday night I was concentrating on getting to that rest area to drop off the badges and after I mentioned supper that one time I forgot. After taking Barney outside I fixed a PB&J.

Sunday morning I was walking Barney outside before leaving for the airport. It was 8:40 and I got a text from Ceil – she had just landed. Her flight wasn't scheduled to land until 9 am, giving me time to drive down while she was deplaning and walking to baggage claim. I jumped in the car and headed out, arriving at 9:20. I had planned on getting gas on the way, so on the way back we stopped at Howell Mill to gas up.

C and M had to wake up at 3:30 to get to the airport, after staying out late the night before. Stopped by Whole Foods to get them breakfast because they didn't want to go to Waffle House or IHOP or anywhere else I could think of. Then they went home and took naps. We watched the Masters – a pretty exciting final round. Sunday I fixed another turkey and cheese wrap on the Panini press. Sunday night Ceil grilled chicken tenders and broccoli. M went to the Varsity Sunday night after church.

Strong Words

Collapse. Meltdown. Came apart. Words written about Jordan Spieth’s final round Sunday. I submit these are all much too strong words. What did he do?

 

(1) Shot one over par for the day – the same score he shot Saturday, one stroke better than his Friday score.

(2) Finished second in the Masters, perhaps the toughest course in the world, under tougher than normal conditions. He outplayed all but one player in the field.

(3) Hit many more good shots than bad. In fact he only made two terrible shots out of 73.

(4) Seven birdies. Six Pars. Four Bogies. Take away those two bad shots and Spieth wins the tournament.

(5) Played the first 5 holes even par. Played the middle 8 holes one over. Played the last 5 even.

(6) Made 22 birdies in 4 days, more than anyone else. Willett made 13.

(7) Spieth’s alleged “meltdown” should not have come as a surprise: he played the back nine in 2 over both Friday and Saturday.

(8) Did this while mired in a season-long slump.

  

Have these people ever played golf before? If Jordan Spieth collapsed Sunday, he also collapsed at least six times in tournaments earlier this year. Almost all players lose well over 90% of the tournaments they enter. Get over it, people. Perhaps their standard is a tad high. Spieth’s record against the field at Augusta: 276-2-2. He’s played the Masters three times and only two guys have beat him.  

It may have been a testament to Jordan Spieth’s greatness that he led for the first three rounds of the Masters, plus the first eleven holes of the final round. He was dealing with adversity not only on the back nine Sunday, but also the entire year. Spieth had a busy off-season, traveling overseas to six countries. After winning in Hawaii in early January he finished no higher than 17th. He missed a cut and though he made it to the round of 16 in the Austin match play event, he admittedly had control problems with his woods and irons. He was pulling wrong clubs and being too aggressive, and called himself “brain dead.” People have placed impossible expectations on Spieth, and naively call him out when he falls short. Yet through it all no golfer is more hospitable or giving.

Could you imagine the patrons on the course watching the scoreboards when Spieth went from -5 to -1? Spieth did a great job handling himself under the conditions. CBS did well to analyze but not criticize. Others less in the know were not as forgiving, holding every miscue under the proverbial microscope. The NFL and MLB has a cooling off period before the media can come in. Spieth had a camera in his face the moment he stepped off the course. No one said anything about Willett’s nationally televised celebration at the sight of Spieth’s bogey on 17 (actually it was Willett’s caddy and friends coming in to give him hugs that spurred the celebrations, not Willett himself).

Like everyone else (including me), Jim Denison used Spieth's struggles to get clicks. I’m sure a lot of what he wrote about Spieth was gleaned from other articles Jim had read. Everyone handles adversity differently. Reactions can differ from Christian to Christian as well. Just because Bubba Watson is a Christian it doesn’t mean he automatically handles adversity well. People are getting onto him about comments he made this weekend, taking Watson to task while not questioning the validity of the patron who provoked him – a guy who was standing in a place we wasn’t supposed to be. Why wasn’t this fan removed from the course? Why believe him? But that’s the world we live in today.

http://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=5369bb601ac44bfdda928110b&id=9c462d11e2&e=38b7cb855f

My Masters Saturday

Saturday was a long but special day, my third visit to Masters. Gassed up the CRV shortly before seven and made it to Reid’s by twenty after. Meaghan and Liza were already awake, and they greeted me at the door.

We drove through downtown and headed into the morning sun on I-20. As we chatted I had one ear on the radio, and turned it up when 92.9’s Sam Crenshaw introduced Lang, who spoke in depth about the Hawks as they enter the playoffs. He does a better job as a guest, speaking specifically and succinctly, with the knowledge of a professional but the passion of a fan. Lang ends the segment asking Sam for a shout-out to Reid and Dave listening on their way to Augusta. How about that!

The sun-drenched interstate is filled with luxury vehicles full of high-achievers racing at high speeds to Augusta. I’m in a little bit of a hurry only to meet Burch, who has generously offered up the Masters badges. For a long while I follow an SUV driving 74 MPH. Reid and I talk Tech basketball, the Masters, and other topics. We ease into the rest stop at mile marker 182 at meet Burch, who expertly offers the best route to the course.

Our next stop was Bojangles for bacon, egg, and cheese biscuits. Traffic doesn’t back up until Alexander meets Washington Road, but in no time we’re parked in the massive grass parking lot adjoining the course. It’s a long walk to the grounds, through the gates, past the practice area, and toward the course.   

The first players we saw at hole number one were Matt Kuchar and Thailand’s Thonghai Jaidee, hitting their second shots. We crossed over to the eighth hole and saw the first group of the day: Bubba Watson and marker Jeff Knox, the Augusta National member recently written up in Sports Illustrated. After Knox hit his second shot he walked over to chat with a friend who happened to be standing right next to me.

Then we crossed over to the second green, where we watched several groups chip and putt: Adam Scott and Charley Hoffman, Kuchar and Jaidee, Henrik Stenson and Hunter Mahan, and Harris English and French amateur Romain Langasque. We cross to the third fairway, but continue on across 7, 17, and 15. We settle in the grandstand overlooking the 14th tee and 13th green. Behind the green tree tall pines are bent to the left from the wind. In the distance we can see the bridge leading across Rae’s Creek to the 12th green.

Bubba goes for the green on his second shot and hits it close. Knox laid up just short of the creek, and then chips it close. While Knox was hitting Bubba and his caddie were transfixed by something in the creek. They waited at the bridge for Knox and his caddie to point out what they were looking at. Perhaps a snake? After returning their attention to golf, both made their birdie putts.

Group after group hit their approach shots and putted on 13, and teed off 14. About half went for it and half laid up. Only a couple found trouble in or around the creek. Sergio’s downhill lie gave him fits. Early in the day competitors were aimed under the hole and putting uphill. Later on in the day more aimed right at the flag. A few found bad lies in bunkers beyond the hole. A handful of birdies were made, including gems by former champions Larry Mize (who had laid up) and Bernhard Langer (who didn’t). Bill Haas made the only eagle, chipping in from his position across the creek.

Thirty of the 57 making the cut were from foreign countries. Portly Kiradech Aphibarnrat of Thailand didn’t look like he’d make it up the 14th fairway, plodding along ten yards behind playing partner Hideki Matsuyama. Many familiar names missed the cut: Phil. Rickie. Els. Zach Johnson. Vijay. Tom Watson. Schartzel. Mike Wehr. Mark O’Meara. Ian Woosnam. Ryan Moore.

The back gate golf shop wasn’t far, though it was up a hill. The line moved quickly, and soon we were inside. Lots of nice stuff, but nothing reached out and grabbed me. Nice dri-fit quarter zip pullovers. Dog collars. Socks. Umbrellas. The green Masters folding chairs were only $30.00, but they wouldn’t work well at the beach. A wall of caps, all the dreaded one size fits all. I had noticed marker Jeff Knox sporting a nice green Augusta National cap I’d never seen before, so we selected the blue version for Lang. I hope it fits. At the last minute I bought a keychain for Ceil.

No line at the concession stand. Two egg salad sandwiches and Coke (me) and chicken wrap, mini carrots, and Coke (Reid) might’ve cost $30.00 at Turner Field, but at the Masters set us back eleven bucks. We sat and ate and took our time getting back, but we only missed two groups. I had the thought that I should’ve brought a pen and blank piece of paper to take notes. Maybe next time.

Not only was there an abundance of great golf to watch, the day at the Masters was great for two of my other favorite pastimes: people watching and shoe watching. Patrons came dressed in everything from navy blazers and sundresses to cargo shorts and T-shirts. Lots of golf jackets and Masters attire. Golf caps and Masters caps new and old. I had chosen to wear my Braves road cap, to represent Georgia’s home team. I only saw one other Braves cap. Also one Royals cap, a Twins cap, two Astros cap, and predictably - two Red Sox caps.

There was a veritable feast of shoes to look at. Scores of fashionable Nike running shoes. A long-haired white sports junkie in his late twenties rocked a huge pair of Air Jordans. A middle-aged guy was wearing a pair of dated green leather Puma Californias. Also plenty of golf shoes, ranging from full on soft spikes to the latest in spikeless models. Saw one pair of my black adidas adicross golf shoes. No one was wearing Ryan Moore’s fashionable True Linkswear golf shoes. But the one shoe I saw more than any other was the very pair of brown leather ECCO spikeless shoes I has chosen to wear. I saw four or five guys wearing them, most with the original orange shoestrings that came with the shoes.

A few players rocked cool footwear as well. Rory wore an interesting pair of Kobe-modeled Nikes with blue uppers (top). Keegan Bradley’s Air Jordans has a huger 45 on them 9above). Spieth wore his same ugly pair of Under Armors. Snedecker wore pink pants (below). Mize, Bubba, Matsuyama, and amateur DeChambeau (and others) wore all black. I saw a patron in black pants and Nikes, something I could’ve worn. But I’m content in my khakis, white golf shirt, and Columbia pullover.

After Spieth and McIlroy teed off on 14 the grandstand emptied. We followed the crowd to the 15th fairway where we watched the last three groups hit their approach shots. Rory’s tee shot sailed left near a spot we had just vacated. I stood ten yards behind him as he effortlessly drew his approach around a tree and onto the green – an amazing shot.

Then we moved to the 17th green, yet another spot I had never before lingered. Kjeldsen made a nice chip from behind the green to save par. As Rory and Spieth neared the crowd grew. Professional photographers edged near to record the action. After they putted out we ran into Reid and Andrew Hall. I laughed too loudly at a comment – just as Spieth teed off into the trees on 18.

Reid and I made our way back toward the main gate, stopping to watch Rory hit his approach on 18. Two golfers toiled on the range. One was 58 year-old Langer, whose bogey on 18 keeps him out of Sunday’s final group. As we walked through the parking lot my fitbit hit 10000 steps.

We make it back to the car and join the gridlock on Washington Road. Then traffic clears and we meet Burch at the westbound rest stop. I speed home, hitting the downtown connector to join gridlocked traffic from the Braves game. After dropping off Reid, I speed home, making it just before 11 pm. Barney had been home alone all day, but was glad to see me.

Masters Saturday

Any day at the Masters is a special experience. Unless you're Louie Giglio. Wednesday Louie went inside the ropes to caddie for Charl Schwartzel in the par three tournament.

More to follow on my slightly less spectacular Saturday at the Masters.

Good News

M has had the worst run of bad "luck" the past few months. Never can seem to catch a break. Last week C went back to SC to tend to her sick mom. Thursday I had to leave work and pick up a sick M at school. C didn't return until Monday and now is on spring break. Since M doesn't eat well I was taking him out to eat more than usual: CFA, PaPa Johns, Five Guys, CiCi's, Fuddruckers. Last night he cooked wings, and made a late night run to Taco Bell. Yesterday M went out looking for a job. He applied several places, and Wendy's hired him to start next Wednesday.

 

M had to interview someone for a school project and wanted to talk to a friend I hadn't spoken to in what, two years? I called and we had a nice chat. They moved down near Terrell Mill and his office is near the Marietta Square. They still have the Airstream trailer.

 

Wednesday morning M went to talk to him, and he offered M a summer internship, and said he'd pay more than Wendy's. Unbelievable.   

 

Worked until seven Wednesday night. C cooked spaghetti for supper. M had Moe's. C watched her show about the heart doctor. Then the Braves and The Middle. AJ had the only Braves RBI Wednesday night. Like the first game, the Braves were in it to the end. Tying run on second with two out in the ninth. But if everyone says they're gonna lose 100 games, they're gonna lose every two out of three.

 

Pulled up to the airport right at 6 am Thursday morning to drop off C and A. Neither packed until this AM. Hope M took nice shoes. They're attending two of MC's shows. M got a first class seat but not C. Was at my desk before 6:45. I left work at 5:15 and made it home in 30 minutes, thanks to the lighter spring break traffic. Barney was glad to see me. He sniffed around Ceil's car (and even jumped inside) looking for Ceil. I baked a leftover chicken tender and cooked a turkey quesadilla on the Panini press. I was tired from waking up so early, and went to bed at 10:30. Barney stayed downstairs in the hopes that Ceil would return. Like clockwork he came upstairs at 5:45, right before my alarm went off.

 

I watched a bunch of the Masters as well. There is a video making the rounds of Vijay Singh skipping the ball across the water on the par three 16th hole, as many players do in the practice rounds. Vijay's ball skips across the water, then bounds up onto the green and rolls down the hill and finally into the cup for a hole in one. Not sure if it was from this year. I was looking at last year's Saturday tee times. 28 groups of two, with the leaders teeing off at 2:55 pm. Depending on how many are tied at the cut line, the first tee time could be as late as 10:25 or so.

 

Lots of good Masters articles. Monday Rory made a hole in one on 16. SI had a long article about what happened to Tiger: loss of desire, tired of being Tiger Woods, body broke down due to all his workouts that made his muscles too big for his frame. Jogging in combat boots and going through drills with Marines made it worse. The article said his Tiger Woods Learning Center in Anaheim has been a tremendous success helping underprivileged kids make it to college. The article said he's talking to his playing opponents more. Another long article on Billy Payne to read.

 

Four of Will's former high school teammates are still toiling away at college baseball. All four have dads that are big sports nuts.

 

Holt is a redshirt sophomore at UAB majoring in engineering. Batting .192, 5-26 (all singles) with 10 strikeouts. 2 RBI. Holt played summer ball in New York state, then last year in Alaska.

 

Perry spent one year at UAB before transferring to tiny Covenant College. Batting average by year: .319 freshman, .327 sophomore, .250 junior. Played summer ball in New York state.

 

Ray pitches for Covenant. Made four relief appearances last year as a freshman. This year he has a 2.84 ERA and a .205 batting average against.

 

Michael played at Southern Tech before they disbanded, then transferred to tiny Flagler College in St. Augustine. ERA by year: 4.53 FR, 4.94 Soph, 4.58 Junior. Played a half season of summer ball in Florence SC.

 

Braves: Nice crowd for the opener. With the improved bullpen I'm hoping for a slight improvement over last season. I'm hoping to hit three games this month, for bobbleheads of course: UGA women's softball on the 17th, Turner Field on the 23rd and Gwinnett on the 30th.

 

Not sure if I told you about the Hurts. I rarely see them except on social media. They had moved to Milton from Sandy Springs around 2002. Now both girls are at Auburn. Oldest may graduate in May. Youngest is a member of the recently crowned SEC champion Equestrian team. David's long-time kitchen business near Bolton Road must've closed – he's been catching some camera work here and there and driving Uber (he finally had to get a smart phone). Wife Mary has gone back to nursing, which must pay most of the bills. They sold their house to downsize and moved in with David's 90 year old mother off West Paces Ferry. The first week they were there his mother fell and broke her hip. They're hoping to find something smaller to buy, up in Milton. Mary is the super organized one orchestrating all this.

What's Your Prediction?

Every year fans complain when their team doesn’t win the championship. Most forget that at the beginning of the season few expected the team to do well in the first place. After two close games the Braves were in up to the final out, I’m already hearing complaints the team failed to execute perfectly.

Last year UGA started the season with three novice quarterbacks. In fact they only had one great player (Nick Chubb) and he went down with a season-ending knee injury. The Dawgs did well to rally to win ten games, but by the end of the season fans were crying for Mark Richt’s head. That the season never held realistic visions of glory meant little by then.

When a sportswriter or radio host makes a preseason prediction, few fans remember to hold them accountable. Some will publish their results, like Mark Bradley, Jeff Schultz, Matt Chernoff, and Chuck Oliver. What fans do this?

Anyone? Bueller?

So often during the offseason I read fans on social media predicting 100 loss seasons, only to complain during the first losing streak. Isn’t that what they expected? Any knowledgeable fan knows the Braves are in a rebuilding mode. The team knew it would struggle after trading away so many established players. The goal is to win in 2017 and 2018. Did these so-called fans actually expect the Braves to win? To lose one hundred (which the Braves did not do) they’ll have to lose two of every three. Four losses per week. Yet the same fans who predicted the terrible record complains when the team performs as predicted. Why is this?

Sure watching a losing team can be frustrating. Fans like to vent on social media. Like many things, this public display of “affection” only reveals the mentality, temperament, and true colors of the individual.

I hope the Braves win the World Series. A winning record and competitive team would be great. Just making a playoff appearance would be tremendous. But these are hopes and dreams, and quite unrealistic ones at that.

On the contrary, I expect the Braves to struggle this year. I’ll do my best to not complain about every strike out and error. I’m not one to do an in depth research project of the Braves personnel to determine how much better the team will be over last year. Nick Markakis went into last year with no offseason work and hardly any spring training – and still was the team’s most reliable hitter. After a season of injuries Freddie Freeman returns healthy. Hector Olivera looks more comfortable at the plate. Aybar can hit better than Simmons without too much drop-off in the field. Inciarte provides solid offense and defense.

Last year the Braves lost at least 20 games due to a weak bullpen losing late game leads and ties games. This year with Grilli, Jim Johnson, Vizciano, and Eric O’Flaherty bolstering the pen, the Braves should be at least ten games better. That should at least keep them ahead of the woeful Phillies.

What are your expectations for the Braves 2016? Based on the reality of the roster and competition, what will their record be? What would truly disappoint you?

Venomenon

The pretty blue ones had toes too light. This dark grey pair isn't as bad. Is it? Bought them for half price in celebration of Matthew's good news and next week's focus group. Good reasons, huh?

From one sneaker blog: The Nike Kobe 9 EM “Gold” will have the Zoom Kobe Venomenon 4 to hang out with at retail this Friday, at least for a few seconds. The most recent Kobe team shoe will drop in Black/University Gold-Laser Crimson-Dark Grey, playing off the EM’s The Game of Death vibe with a black-based Hyperfuse layout and placed gold trim with a touch of pinkish crimson. Sticker price was $120.00 in March 2014.

My pair just needs a new pair of shoestrings. And insoles. With these colors I can wear them to Tech games.

A Tradition Like No Other

The Masters: I've been to two practice rounds and one Sunday round. The 18th green is super crowded so you have to stand, but there are lots of other good players to watch. When W and I went on the Sunday, after walking the course we stood near the 3rd green, the short par four. In the distance you can see the second green, golfers teeing off on 3, their short approach shot, and putts. To our right was the par three 4th tee, with the green and 5th hole tee box in the distance. When all the players finished hole 3 we moved over to 18.

Last Tuesday after work I went over to my friend's office across the street from the new Braves ballpark. When he sits at his desk he faces the window looking out over the construction. He can also see Kennesaw Mountain and another mountain in north Georgia. After that we ate at Boneheads. Lee had fried catfish. Reid had fried fish. I had grilled chicken with a spicy BBQ sauce, a cold corn and black bean dish, and rice.

Wednesday: worked until 6:15 and tried to make a funeral home visit in Lawrenceville but by the time I found it the people had gone. Was after 8:30 by the time I got home.

Thursday was month end / quarter end. The CEO had charged our division to lead the company with great results. Co-worker Wanda was out for her step-father's funeral, leaving me a lot to do. We had several serious delivery issues with our customer, some that rose up Thursday afternoon. Ceil was in SC taking her mom to the doctor, as her brother and niece were busy elsewhere. My mom was in the hospital in Macon recovering from surgery. My brother's mother-in-law was in intensive care at Kennestone. I left work at 12:15 to take care of a sick M.

Worked from home most of the day Friday. Did a little laundry. Later I drove M to Alpharetta to fetch his Jeep. Stopped at two thrift stores. M got a Perry the Platypus t-shirt. I got a Jermaine O'Neal bobblehead and a pair of red adidas sneakers. M picked up papajohns pizza and I cashed in an expiring gift certificate at Dicks Sporting Goods. Got two pair of knee high baseball socks to wear to work and a pair of white shoestrings for the red sneakers.

Saturday morning I cleaned upstairs. Watched several episodes of the NFL Network's Top Ten. M picked up some groceries at Whole Foods. Later M wanted to hit more thrift stores. He got a lined jean jacket and an Avitt Brothers t-shirt. I bought a Columbia PFG shirt and a pair of white adidas shell toes to sell. Afterwards we ate at the Five Guys in Sandy Springs. On the way home we stopped by The Dollar Tree and Kroger.

Sunday afternoon was productive. Laundry and folding. Ironed seven shirts. Cut the grass. Watched the Nicolas Cage movie Lord of War. M went to Passion City Church. Later we went to CiCi's Pizza to try their new flatbread pizza. Also had a salad. Not that great.

Did you see how the final four games are on three different networks? The regular broadcast plus two other broadcasts from the point of view from each team. I guess they want to avoid lawsuits from students who'd be offended if someone said something contrary from their own worldview.

My friend's son who plays tube in the UNC band is at the final four. Had his picture taken with Roy Williams and later with Jay Bilas. See where Coach K had knee replacement surgery? He is scheduled to coach the Olympic team beginning August 5.

After work Monday I met M at Fuddruckers. They gave us extra fries and we both took home half our burger and some fries. Real good but Five Guys may be just as good if not better. Ceil was home when we got home. Barney was more interested in eating. Watched The Voice and the game, also some Braves. During the night Barney was restless, so I finally went downstairs to sleep.

M applied for a job on the way home, then went out job searching today. He landed a job at Wendy's. I'll tell him to be the best employee and give great service.

Anna is planning on attending the UGA spring football game on the 15th. Two UGA students died when the driver lost control of her car.

Early bird music selections at work: "I Want Candy," "The Best of my Love," "Tequila Sunrise," "Twisting the Night Away," "Hit the Road Jack," the theme from "Roundup" (used on NFL Films), Elvis' "Don't Be Cruel," and Alabama's "The Closer You Get."

The AJC is making a big deal about a backup outfielder making the Braves team.

Top Ten Ageless Wonders

The NFL Network’s Top Ten Ageless Wonders. You’d think George Blanda would be a shoo-in for the top spot. League MVP at age 43. Blanda retired at age 48, after scoring twice was many points as anyone else in history. But the NFL Network likes an argument, so Blanda finished fourth.

 

10. CB/S Ronde Barber.

9. QB Steve DeBerg.

8. TE Tony Gonzalez. The NFL loves him.

7. PK Morten Andersen.

6. QB Warren Moon.

5. MLB Ray Lewis. The NFL loves him.

4. QB/PK/LB George Blanda.

3. QB Brett Farve. The NFL loves him.

2. RB Emmitt Smith.

1. DB/KR Darrell Green.

 

Ranked second was running back Emmitt Smith, who played more NFL games than any other running back. He also rushed for more yards than anyone else in NFL history. Smith played for 15 seasons, retiring at the age of 35. But his last two years with the Cardinals were a flop.

 

Not mentioned was Herschel Walker, who was a productive player in all twelve NFL seasons before retiring at age 35. Walker also played three professional seasons in the USFL, giving him as many total seasons – and more games played – than any other running back in professional football. Herschel also gained more yards than any player in history.  

 

PL.seasons.games..yards

HW…15…....241…23730

ES….15…....226…21579

 

Best of the rest: Jeff Feagles. Trey Junkin. Lou Groza. Jackie Slater. Kevin Meline. Anthony Munoz was shown but not mentioned. Bruce Matthews was mentioned by an “expert.”

 

Morten Andersen scored over 700 points AFTER the age of 40 – more than over a dozen hall-of-famers scored in their careers. He retired as the all-time leading scorer for two different teams: the Saints and Falcons.

Opening Day

Red Shoes: Part Five

I've been looking for these shoes for more than ten years. Finally found them last night. A little snug in the instep. But they'll do. Red adidas Campus. The fifth red shoe in the series.

1. Puma California: my favorite, but they tore up.
2. Puma Suede: similar to the Campus. OK but I didn't wear them much.
3. Puma Liga: I just didn't like the tan bottoms.
4. Nike Flyknit Lunar 1+: not that great.
5. adidas Campus

The question: red shoestrings or white? For me it's a no-brainer: white. Almost all photos of the campus show it with red strings, but I don't care. My pair aren't as bright as the strings that came with them, so I quickly switched them out.

April Bobbleheads

 

4.07 THU LAA Trout & Pujols HR double BH

4.08 FRI Reading Ruth Hartman Golden BH

4.09 SAT Reading Cole Hamils Golden BH

4.10 SUN COL Nolan Arenado diamond leader BH

4.10 SUN 80’s vintage Brewers BH

4.15 FRI or 4.22 Jackie Robinson Day

4.15 FRI Montgomery Chris Archer BH 2000

4.16 SAT STL Adam Wainwright BH

4.16 SAT MIA Charles Johnson 97 ASG BH

4.16 SAT TB Kevin Kiermaier Platinum Glove BH

4.16 SAT Albuquerque Holly Holm BH

4.16 SAT Harrisburg Vladimir Guerrero BH 1500

4.17 SUN UGA softball BH 1000 7 PM

4.19 TUE STL Adam Wainwright 2006 WS mini BH

4.19 TUE BOS Mookie Betts BH

4.19 TUE TEX Jeff Bannister manager of the year BH

4.22 FRI SF golfer Juli Inkster BH

4.22 FRI Lexington Legends Demarcus Cousins BH 1000

4.23 SAT Braves Skip & Pete w/ sound chip double BH

4.23 SAT NYY Babe Ruth BH

4.23 SAT ARIZ AJ Pollock BH

4.23 SAT CIN Joey Votto Superhero BH

4.23 SAT DET April in the D retro BH

4.23 SAT Omaha Moose Antler Mike Moustakas BH

4.24 SUN TOR Josh Donaldson MVP BH

4.25 MON LAD Clayton Kershaw BH

4.26 TUE SF year of the monkey figurine (BH?)

4.29 FRI York Governor Tom Wolf BH 1500

4.30 SAT Gwinnett Brian Snitker 2500

4.30 SAT SEA Nelson Cruz broomstick BH

4.30 SAT MIL Jonathan Lucroy superhero BH

4.30 SAT STL Trevor Rosenthal BH w/ talking chip

4.30 SAT TB Archer K-counter BH

4.30 SAT CHI vs ATL Ron Santo statue
4.30 SAT OAK Sean Doolittle Metallica gnome

4.30 SAT Bowling Green Kevin Kiermaier bobbleglove