The $ 1 Billion White Elephant In The Room , To Be More Precise Sitting In Arlington Texas

He may well be the most despised owner in all of the NFL. But the Dallas Cowboys’ Jerry Jones is the consummate showman. Anything that he deems fit and appropriate that’ll place his name and more to the point that of his Dallas Cowboys in the limelight. Then as far as he’s concerned the rest of the whole world can go to hell. And that means if he’ll fall afoul of the NFL. In Jerry’s world …….it’s his way or the damn highway . Make no mistakes about it whatsoever. As that’s the way he treat his peers and subordinates.

Broncos running  back  Knowshon  Moreno  is  congratulated  by  teammate   Jabar  Gaffney  after   Moreno' s   second   quarter   touchdown  against  the  Cowboys.  Broncos'  running back  Knowshon  Moreno (27) is congratulated  by teammate  Jabar Gaffney (10) after  Moreno's   second   quarter  touchdown against  the  Dallas  Cowboys   in a   game  played  at  Invesco  Field  in  Denver , Colorado.   The   Broncos   would    go on  to defeat  the  Cowboys   17-10   in the game.  The  Dallas  Cowboys   now  sit  at  2-2  within the  NFC  East.  While  the  Broncos (4-0) are   one  of    4   unbeaten  teams  within  the  NFL  .       picture  appears   courtesy  of ap/photo/ Chris  Schneider  .............

Broncos’ running back Knowshon Moreno(27) and teammate Jabar Gaffney celebrate Moreno’s second half touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys in a game played at Invesco Field in Denver , Colorado. The Broncos would go on to defeat the Cowboys 17-10 and remain unbeaten within the NFL. The Cowboys for their part now sit at (2-2) within the NFC East. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Chris Schneider ………………

With the gargantuan billion dollar stadium having been opened up to much public debate and a certain amount of controversy. I can only think to myself wouldn’t it be of even greater benefit to Jones and the Cowboys’ fans if they actually had a worthwhile on-field product that their fans could laud over ? Instead they’ve been served up a trite piece of garbage and with a quarterback whose backbone may well be as yellow as any, as they come. Much has been made of the ‘special talents’ of Tony Romo . But until he’s able to lead this team with authority , he’ll be lauded for his known association with the likes of Carrie Underwood and Jessica Simpson , respectively. And when that essentially has become the pinnacle of your notoriety within the NFL. Then you can only but assume the only way to go , is essentially ….. up from there .

Broncos'  defensive player Andra  Davis(54)  tackles  Cowboys'  running  back  Marion  Barber  (24)  during  the  first   quarter  of  the  game  played  at  Invesco  Field  in  Denver  , Colorado.     picture  appears  courtesy  of   ap/photo/ Jack  Dempsey ......................
Broncos' defensive player Andra Davis(54) tackles Cowboys' running back Marion Barber (24) during the first quarter of the game played at Invesco Field in Denver , Colorado. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Jack Dempsey ......................

In yesterday’s showdown with the AFC West division leading Denver Broncos (4-0) . The Cowboys essentially showed us all on national television that they’ve no stomach for a fight , when they’re called upon or even placed in a situation of adversity. If anything this team seems to mirror the gullible hokum persona of its coach Wade Phillips . And for the coach who has become about as eloquent as an inebriated drunk when questioned as to what ails this team. It’s now clear for all to see that the franchise and ownership are clearly at a crossroads. We can no longer continue to make excuses for a team that repeatedly comes up short and for want of a better a word just under-performs. And what of Jones you might say ? Well Jerry would have you believe that he’s got everything under control and there’s nothing at all to worry about.

Broncos' running back   Knowshon  Moreno    evades  Cowboys'  defensive  players   DeMarcus Ware (94)  and  Bradie  James  (56)  .      picture appears   courtesy  of   getty  images  /  Doug Pensinger  ............................
Broncos' running back Knowshon Moreno evades Cowboys' defensive players DeMarcus Ware (94) and Bradie James (56) . picture appears courtesy of getty images / Doug Pensinger ............................

As alluded to earlier the events that took place between the Cowboys and Broncos . Wherein the Denver Broncos and their stifling defense upended the Dallas Cowboys 17-10 . This has essentially paved the way for what we now know about the two teams. The Broncos under first year coach Josh McDaniels can play football, despite much of the off-season and preseason turmoil that surrounded the team. For the Cowboys , however , they may well be now doing it all with smoking mirrors. I get the impression that illusionist Criss Angel wouldn’t at all be uncomfortable in the presence of the Cowboys. But then again , Criss Angel hasn’t been known to make as any boobs as the Cowboys have been known to , as of late.

Cowboys'  coach   Wade  Phillips  looks  on as  the  Broncos  have   just   scored  the   game  winning   touchdown.    picture  appears  courtesy  of  ap/photo/  Jack  Dempsey   ............................
Cowboys' coach Wade Phillips looks on as the Broncos have just scored the game winning touchdown. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Jack Dempsey ............................

The Cowboys we’re led to believe are a potent offensive weapon that Romo ought to be able to make full use of the artillery made available to him. However , when you’ve got a quarterback who at this present moment in time is more liable to shoot himself in the foot. Rather than making use of the weapons that he’s afforded. You can well understand one of the many reasons that the hype surrounding this team is no longer justified. Their running game yesterday was all but obsolete. And their much vaulted defense was nowhere to be seen ,as the Broncos ran the Cowboys’ secondary ragged. Much of what we gleaned from the Broncos’ victory are borne out in the game stats . Romo played a with all the wantoned abandonment of of a cavalier . Whereas, his counterpart Kyle Orton was secure his distribution of the ball amongst his teammates. Romo’s two fumbles and an interception proved to be costly for the Dallas Cowboys. Never-mind the fact that he overthrew his receivers in trying to stretch the field and continually threw into double coverages ,expecting his teammates to pull off the spectacular play.

One quarter of the way into the season and one could suggest that the Cowboys now face an uphill battle within the NFC East. And with the likes of the Philadelphia Eagles (2-2) , New York Giants (4-0) and Washington Redskins (2-2) all seemingly finding their footing. It’s self evident than they can ill afford anymore major slip ups as the season progresses. Much of more of the same and we might as well write off the team for all that it’s worth. And judging by the billion dollars spent on the edifice in Arlington Texas. What price would say that the Cowboys as a team is now said to be worth ? Do bear in mind that their presence in the postseason has been limited but one playoff win in the last decade. Not much to be proud given the team’s history and legacy we’re led to believe.

Broncos' wide receiver   Brandon Marshall (15)  scampers  his   way to  the  game  winning  51 yard  touchdown   reception  triumph  over the  Dallas  Cowboys  .      picture   appears  courtesy  of  getty  images/  Doug  Pensinger  .....................
Broncos' wide receiver Brandon Marshall (15) scampers his way to the game winning 51 yard touchdown reception triumph over the Dallas Cowboys . picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Doug Pensinger .....................

Hype is one thing but being over-hyped just isn’t worth it, much like that $1 billion white elephant that has been constructed there in Arlington , Texas to begin with. So what price are you prepared to pay or even offer for the privilege of owning the Dallas Cowboys ? Or perhaps like the vast majority of us you’d rather just see this franchise go up in flames ?

Kobe You And Are I Going To Rule The World And We’ll Have the ‘Illest ‘ Rap Video Out There ! And Tell Kanye At The 2010 VMA’s We’d Appreciate His Support

As a child growing up in the West Indies, I can remember my grandmother telling me “…… what doesn’t hurt you , won’t kill you.” Imagine to my surprise then when I heard that the Los Angeles Lakers had signed the enfant-terrible’ Ron Artest . Now don’t get me wrong , as a player , I admire Artest for what he brings to the table. An unstoppable zest for the game and a zeal not too often seen from players with far more ability but even less heart. In many respects after the Kobe -Shaq era of unbridled success with the exception of the lopsided loss of an NBA championship series to the Detroit Pistons . The last thing one might have expected , was the for the Lakers to have made a full court press and to have acquired Artest as a free agent.

Kobe  Bryant  (left) and   newly  minted  teammate  Ron  Artest   picture  appears   courtesy  of  reuters /  Mike   Blake  ..............................
Kobe Bryant (left) and newly minted teammate Ron Artest picture appears courtesy of reuters / Mike Blake ..............................

And if one remembers at the time , that Lakers’ team had enough egos on it , that it would’ve made more sense to have five separate balls on the court . Rather than them all having to share one apiece. You had Kobe Bryant , Shaquille O’Neal, Gary Payton, Karl Malone and last but not least Derek Fisher.

From  left  to  right  Gary Payton,  Shaquille O'Neal,  Karl  Malone  ,  Kobe  Bryant   and   Rick  Fox.   All  have   a  forelorn   upon them as  they began  to    realize  that   the  improbable  and  the   inevitable was  about to  happen.   They  would   lose  the  NBA  Final   series  to  the  Eastern  Conference's  Detroit  Pistons.       picture  appears  courtesy  of   getty  images /    Mitchell   Russell  ........................
From left to right Gary Payton, Shaquille O'Neal, Karl Malone , Kobe Bryant and Rick Fox. All have a forelorn upon them as they began to realize that the improbable and the inevitable was about to happen. They would lose the NBA Final series to the Eastern Conference's Detroit Pistons. picture appears courtesy of getty images / Mitchell Russell ........................

There’s a saying that oil and water don’t mix . And in the case of adding Malone and Payton into the mix. Whilst on paper , it may well have all looked good. And the NBA pundits were saying that the Lakers at the time were “a sure thing thing to win to win it all “. The fact of the matter was the Lakers were too cock sure of themselves. And as the complacency set in , so too did the acrimony between the quartet of superstars on the team. What transpired in those NBA Finals was a lesson as why the old adage stills holds true. “Too many Chiefs not enough Indians .”

Lakers'  coach  Phil  Jackson  speaks  to  the   members  of  the  media   at  a  news  conference   at the   team's   training  facility  in  El  Segundo  ,  California.      The  team   now  embarks  on the  defense  of  their  2008-09   NBA  title.    picture  appears courtesy  of   ap/photo/  Nick  Ut  ..................
Lakers' coach Phil Jackson speaks to the members of the media at a news conference at the team's training facility in El Segundo , California. The team now embarks on the defense of their 2008-09 NBA title. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Nick Ut ..................

And the NBA Finals 2003-04 truly set the Lakers apart from other teams that’ve made the NBA Finals. Point blank favorites they would succumb to the Pistons in a rout unprecedented in its execution and precision. The Lakers’ players were made to look languid and very much like a group of aged geriatrics who knowingly looked out of place. And at the end of it all the Pistons would triumph with an emphatic 4-1 series win and with Chauncey Billups being named Finals’ Series MVP.

Kobe  Bryant  speaks to  members  of  the  media   at the  team's   media  day  at  the   opening  of  their  training   camp  at  the  Toyota  Center   ,  the  team's training   facililty  in  El  Segundo  ,  California.     The   Finals  MVP  of  last  year  is   relishing  the  challenge  of   opening   up  the   2009-10  season  as  the   defending   NBA  champions  and   is  looking  to   successfully   defend  that  title.       picture  appears  courtesy  of   nbae/getty  images/  Evan  Gole   ................
Kobe Bryant speaks to members of the media at the team's media day at the opening of their training camp at the Toyota Center , the team's training facililty in El Segundo , California. The Finals MVP of last year is relishing the challenge of opening up the 2009-10 season as the defending NBA champions and is looking to successfully defend that title. picture appears courtesy of nbae/getty images/ Evan Gole ................

Courtesy of nbcsports.com and The Orange County Register

Kobe, Lakers must be even hungrier to repeat

‘Our focus is on getting better. It’s not really on replicating what we did’

By Kevin Ding Orange County Register

You might’ve forgotten, and Kobe Bryant almost has by now, but the Lakers broke through for a championship not too long ago … and had some trouble when they reconvened for the first time to defend it.

It was the 2000-01 season, and it was the first time Bryant’s feud with Shaquille O’Neal spread to the public consciousness.

O’Neal had a traditional plan that they could just replay the previous season; Bryant came back with new muscles to flex. Two-and-a-half months into the schedule, they were sniping through the media about Bryant overdoing his offense and O’Neal dogging it on defense.

The issue, as described back then by one Phil Jackson, was this about Bryant: “Some nights he’s in balance. Some nights it’s over the edge with trying to find how he can do a little bit better.”

In the end, Bryant hiked his scoring average from 22.5 points to 28.5 (more than he averaged in either of the past two seasons, by the way) and infused the Lakers with a fire they needed to become a far better team.

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In order to read Kevin Ding’s article in its entirety just click on the link provided
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Ron  Artest   of the  Los  Angeles  Lakers   poses   for  his  official  team  photograph  at  the  team's  training  facility   in  El  Segundo,  California.    Artest   brings along  a  great  deal  of  veteran   experience  and  it's   hoped   leadership   that'll   prove  invaluable  alongside  that   of    his  teammate  Kobe  Bryant.      picture  appears courtesy  of  nbae/getty  images/   Juan Ocampo    ......................
Ron Artest of the Los Angeles Lakers poses for his official team photograph at the team's training facility in El Segundo, California. Artest brings along a great deal of veteran experience and it's hoped leadership that'll prove invaluable alongside that of his teammate Kobe Bryant. picture appears courtesy of nbae/getty images/ Juan Ocampo ......................

Now come full circle, after the Lakers’ overwhelming triumph over the outmaneuvered and overwhelmed Orlando Magic in the NBA Finals of the 2008-09 season. Whereby, the Lakers secured their fifteenth NBA title and their coach Phil Jackson , his tenth . All it’s said had to be right in “Lakerland”. However , the tremors were there for all to witness, as the negotiations started in earnest for the renewal of contracts for players who were part of the team’s triumph. Lamar Odom it was suggested , that he was no longer a valid part of the team. And for Trevor Ariza , he felt that he deserved not only more playing time but also more money. For the Lakers’ hierarchy, a decision had to be made . And that laid in the hands of not only the owner , Dr. Jerry Buss . But also that of Phil Jackson and the team’s GM, Mitch Kupchak.

Lakers’ GM Mitch Kupchak speaks about what he feels that Ron Artest can provide for the Lakers as a player. The GM also speaks about the loss of Trevor Ariza , who signed with the Houston Rockets as a free agent.

Much to everyone’s surprise Ariza was allowed to flee and he signed with the Houston Rockets . Odom was re-signed by the team. But low and behold , within their midst came Ron Artest , hoping to pursue his goal of winning an NBA championship. And that comes with baggage included no doubt ? The question might now have to ask, is whether or not Artest can acclimatize himself amongst his new-found teammates and not become a disruptive distraction. We all found it somewhat surprising that during the playoffs with the Rockets , that he alongside Aaron Brooks ,showed leadership and played with a great deal of aplomb and zeal. And though the team’s heroic effort came up short , it showed Ron Artest in a light not previously seen before. That was with a Rockets team that didn’t have the services of either Tracy McGrady or Yao Ming for the playoffs. Yao Ming was lost prior to start of those playoffs. And McGrady as we know , well he’s about as soft as they come and then some !

The Los Angeles Lakers are most certainly looking to repeat as NBA champions. And if anything, they will be looked upon as the presumptive favorites within the Western Conference of the NBA. Though it has to be said that the likes of the San Antonio Spurs, Denver Nuggets, Dallas Mavericks , New Orleans > Hornets, Utah Jazz and Phoenix Suns would all like to think of themselves as noteworthy candidates to assume that mantel as favorites. But in all honesty, it is the Lakers who definitely have the most well rounded roster and the ability to win it all, of the favored representatives in the conference. That’s got to be the case with the addition of Ron Artest. He gives the team an additional offensive option beyond Bryant , Odom and Pau Gasol . And at the same time his defensive play cannot be questioned , as he’s amongst the very best in the game.

Lamar  Odom   of  the  Lakers   seen  here  at  the   team's   training   faclity    the  Toyota  Center   doing   some   pre-game   warmup  exercises.     The   player  was   re-signed   by  the  team    in  the   hopes  of   boosting  their  chances  of   repeating  as   NBA  champions.         picture  appears  courtesy  of   nbae/getty images/  Andrew   D.  Bernstein  .....................
Lamar Odom of the Lakers seen here at the team's training faclity the Toyota Center doing some pre-game warmup exercises. The player was re-signed by the team in the hopes of boosting their chances of repeating as NBA champions. picture appears courtesy of nbae/getty images/ Andrew D. Bernstein .....................

And while there’s no doubt that in many people’s eyes the Los Angeles Lakers are the team to beat. In the Eastern Conference the likes of the Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics and Orlando Magic would like to feel that they’ll be able to negate those thoughts. If nothing else they’ll do their utmost to prove that the supremacy of the NBA just doesn’t reside in the West but like a pendulum it tends to swing both ways.

As to what now lies ahead for Artest and his new teammates. The whole NBA world awaits as to what may well materialize. None more so than the fans of the Lakers , who now feel that even with the loss of Ariza . They are now in much better shape than before . As to what this’ll also mean for Kobe Bryant. One can surmise that the player is no doubt happy with outcome. Let’s just hope that two won’t at all be pursuing a joint recording and rap career . God knows we’ve had to suffer the indignity of listening to Bryant rap , much less the indecipherable mono-toned absurdities of Artest. It’ll be better for all of us , if they just let their ballin’ on the court speak for itself , wouldn’t you say ?

DC ……BC ……There’s No Mistaking The Redskins Suck

The NFC East off all of the NFL divisions is said to be the most contentious and competitive. Within that division lies the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants , Philadelphia Eagles and the Washington Redskins.

Steven  Jackson  of  the  Rams   is   upended  during  the   game  played  against  the  Redskins   by DeAngelo  Hall.    The  game  itself   was  something  of   an  eyesore  as  a  spectacle  for  those   in  attendance at   Fedex  Field  in  Landover, Maryland.   The  game  was  won   by   the  Redskins   9-7  over  the    St  Louis  Rams.     picture  appears  courtesy of   ap/photo/  Rob  Carr  ......................
Steven Jackson of the Rams is upended during the game played against the Redskins by DeAngelo Hall. The game itself was something of an eyesore as a spectacle for those in attendance at Fedex Field in Landover, Maryland. The game was won by the Redskins 9-7 over the St Louis Rams. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Rob Carr ......................

With the installation of first time coach Jim Zorn , -it was felt that the franchise and team would settle back into some sort of normalcy. Normalcy with this franchise and with the arrival of owner, Daniel Snyder . In many respects , it has been very much like watching a speeding train ride just race ahead at full speed not knowing what lies ahead and the fact that rail tracks have become buckled. You know it’s going to careen and crash- laying almighty waste amongst the carnage that remains. It’s the only way that I for one can best describe the franchise , since the departure of Joe Gibbs and what essentially went on before his second tenure of the franchise he led so triumphantly to three Superbowl wins as an NFL coach.

Redskins'  defensive  lineman  Lorenzo Alexander  (79) and  teammate  defensive  end  Brian  Orakpo  watch   from  the  sidelines  at   Ford  Field ,  in  Detroit  as  their  team   goes  on  to   lose  19-14   to the  Detroit   Lions.    picture  appears  courtesy  of    ap/photo/   Carlos  Osorio  ...................
Redskins' defensive lineman Lorenzo Alexander (79) and teammate defensive end Brian Orakpo watch from the sidelines at Ford Field , in Detroit as their team goes on to lose 19-14 to the Detroit Lions. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Carlos Osorio ...................

Well once again it’d appear that not all is right in Daniel’s world and the belief is that Zorn’s head could well be on the chopping block , if the team doesn’t fare well this season. And if the team’s present record (1-2-0) and performances are anything to go by. Then the Washington Redskins and their fans are in for a long and arduous season. Statistically also, the team leaves a great deal to be desired . And their lone victory this season came over the hapless St Louis Rams, 9-7 . A game for which it can be best described as atrocious in its execution , by both teams ! In actuality for the Rams , of whom it can be said ,they’d be hard pressed to even give a high school team a competitive game. Such, has been their travails to date.

Lions'  wide   receiver   Bryant   Johnson  is   tackled   by  the  Redskins'  defensive   player   Carlos   Rogers  .     The   Lions  would  go  on  to  defeat  the  Redskins  19-14   in   a  game  played  at   Ford   Field    in  Detroit   ,  Michigan.    picture  appears  courtesy  of   ap/photo/  Carlos   Osorio   ....................
Lions' wide receiver Bryant Johnson is tackled by the Redskins' defensive player Carlos Rogers . The Lions would go on to defeat the Redskins 19-14 in a game played at Ford Field in Detroit , Michigan. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Carlos Osorio ....................

What may well just be another pointer as to how badly the Redskins have fared. It is the fact that their $ 100 million man in Albert Haynesworth has , had about as much presence on this team. As a vegetarian would feel comfortable in a room filled with carnivores with an assortment of venison laid out for all to consume. Through three regular season games thus far , Haynesworth has bearly registered a blip on the radar screen , registering just 9 tackles and 1 sack through those games. For $100 million , I’m sure that the Redskins’ fans and the NFL as a whole, were expecting more from the player ! But Daniel Snyder , as we all know has never been scared to overpay for what he deems to a priceless trinket. In this case however, he’s overpaid for a dud !

A  forelorn   Redskins'  coach   Jim  Zorn   walks  the  sidelines  in  the   third  quarter  of  the  game  played   against  the  Detroit  Lions .       picture  appears  courtesy  of   ap/photo/ Paul  Sancya  ....................................
A forelorn Redskins' coach Jim Zorn walks the sidelines in the third quarter of the game played against the Detroit Lions . picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Paul Sancya ....................................

One may well point to the fact that there has been continuous upheaval with regard to the organization. From the management on down. But for the team’s much derided quarterback , Jason Campbell . He’s had to deal with more than most. Since his entrance into the NFL and with him being named the team’s starter at the position. He’s had to go through two coaches and at least seven different offensive coordinators in that time . And one wonders why there’s no cohesiveness and fluidity to Campbell’s game ? He’d have been better off doing the play calling himself , for all of the assistance he’s been given. We could also point to the fact , that even though it’s been said that Snyder has taken a hands off approach. You can’t help but feel that he’s got his finger on the pulse of almost everything that takes place within the locker room and with Zorn’s own strategies and training practice schedules.

Redskins'  wide  receiver   Santana  Moss (89) is  tackled  by  Lions'  defensive   players    safety ,  Louis  Delmas (26)  and   linebacker,  Larry   Foote (55)   during  the  game.    The  Lions  would   go  on to  defeat  the  Redskins   19-14  and   halt  their   19   game    regular  season  losing  streak.        picture  appears  courtesy  of  ap/photo/  Carlos   Osorio   .................................
Redskins' wide receiver Santana Moss (89) is tackled by Lions' defensive players safety , Louis Delmas (26) and linebacker, Larry Foote (55) during the game. The Lions would go on to defeat the Redskins 19-14 and halt their 19 game regular season losing streak. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Carlos Osorio .................................

And in terms of a respite , it’s hard to see where the Redskins’ next victory may well come from. They essentially played down to the level of the Detroit Lions in succumbing to a 19-14 loss at Ford Field , in Detroit , Michigan ,during week three. There the Lions were able to stop their run of 19 consecutive regular season game losses, with the defeat of the Redskins. And about the only bright spot for the NFC East team on the day , may well have been the play of Campbell , himself . And that of his wide receiver Santana Moss . The player had 9 receipts for a total of 175 yards , with a touchdown to show for his production on the day. For Jason Campbell it was his best production by far in terms of the season as it stood. His figures , 27/41, 340 yds, 2 TD’s , 1 INT.

Redskins'  defensive  tackle  Albert  Haynesworth   covers   his  face  while   being   taken  off  the   field   on  a  motorized  cart .  The  player  suffered  an  injury   during  the   game  and  as a  matter  of   precaution  his   day  was   curtailed  in  order   for   him  to   undergo  X-rays  to  make   sure  his  injury  wasn't   far  more   serious.  With   $100 million  being  vested  in the  player  ,  the   team  has  yet  to   reap   any  reward   from him   by  way  of  leadership   or  his   presence   on the  field.   picture  appears  courtesy  of   ap/photo/ Paul  Sancya    ..........................
Redskins' defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth covers his face while being taken off the field on a motorized cart . The player suffered an injury during the game and as a matter of precaution his day was curtailed in order for him to undergo X-rays to make sure his injury wasn't far more serious. With $100 million being vested in the player , the team has yet to reap any reward from him by way of leadership or his presence on the field. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Paul Sancya ..........................

With the team now sitting afoot of the NFC East . One has to ask what direction is this team said to be going in ? They’ve not posted a winning season since 2007. And having made the playoffs that season , they brushed aside by the Seattle Seahawks in a wildcard berth playoff loss , 35-14 . Prior to that their last postseason berth was attained in 2005. Something of a sobering thought for one the NFL’s wealthiest teams. For all of the money spent by Daniel Snyder. He’s yet to reap the dividends of his largesse. Much of that appears to be from the ineptitude shown when it comes to making personnel decisions and his continued interference in the team’s day to day operations.

Redskins' quarterback  Jason Campbell (97)  is  face masked   by  Lions'   defensive  player  Jason  Hunter (97)   during  the  game  played  between  the   two   teams  at   Ford  Field   ,  Detroit  ,  Michigan.      The   Lions   would   go  on  to   defeat  the  Redskins   19-14.          picture  appears   courtesy  of   ap/photo/   Paul  Sancya  .........................
Redskins' quarterback Jason Campbell (97) is face masked by Lions' defensive player Jason Hunter (97) during the game played between the two teams at Ford Field , Detroit , Michigan. The Lions would go on to defeat the Redskins 19-14. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Paul Sancya .........................

Courtesy of Yahoo Sports and Associated Press

Wife wants Haynesworth to pay bills, stay away

By Teresa M Walker , AP Sports Writer

FRANKLIN, Tenn. (AP)—Albert Haynesworth’s(notes) wife is asking a Tennessee judge to force the Washington defensive tackle to pay veterinary bills, his daughter’s tuition and other family expenses dating back to when she filed for divorce in April 2008. She also wants a restraining order against him.

Stephanie Haynesworth said in the motion filed Sept. 17 that Haynesworth recently threatened to stop paying temporary support that began in June. The motion alleges he said he wouldn’t pay his daughter’s monthly tuition and a $4,000 veterinary bill that he authorized for the family dog.

A Williamson County Chancery Court judge had been scheduled to hear the the motion Tuesday, but it was continued until Oct. 13.

Haynesworth signed a seven-year, $100 million contract with Washington in the offseason. The Redskins said Monday that Haynesworth was in Tennessee for an MRI on a sore hip and personal business.

Attorney Joanie Abernathy, who is representing Stephanie Haynesworth, did not immediately return a message left at her office. The attorney representing Albert Haynesworth also did not immediately return a message left by The Associated Press.
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A vocal Redskins’ fans lets his thoughts be known about the franchise and particular its owner and coach

Where the team now stands at present , where they no doubt thought that they would be and want to be. Well it’s like describing the distance that needs to traveled between the earth and the moon. It’s safe to say that at present , as the pilot said to be steering this particular vessel. The coach, Jim Zorn is in need of a great deal of luck and someone who can best assist him in navigating this journey. So far the direction that they’re said to be going in bears no resemblance of the desired destination sought by the fans of the Washington Redskins , or that of its owner , Daniel Snyder. They’ve been aimlessly wandering around and plummeting the depths of mediocrity. That it’s hard to empathize with the franchise or its owner.

A somewhat comical view as to who Snyder ought to hire .
Be sure to watch this in its entirety , it’s a hoot !

Jim  Zorn  (center)  and  team  owner   Daniel  Snyder  (right) at the  team's   training  facility   in  Ashburn  ,  Virginia  .    picture  appears  courtesy  of   getty images/   Chris    Hendricks    ........................
Jim Zorn (center) and team owner Daniel Snyder (right) at the team's training facility in Ashburn , Virginia . picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Chris Hendricks ........................

We can all agree upon the fact that this is an organization that in one way or another has seemingly continued to suck. And they’ll carry on doing so , for the foreseeable future ! Not because they want to but merely because it’s now become a part of their inherent psyche.

I’m Not Going To Rain On Your Parade But …………………

Well the sporting weekend has ended and there was a great deal for the fans to rejoice in. And there was also a great deal that they were completely mystified by or just downright upset with. For myself it was seeing the WBC heavyweight title fight that took place between Vitali Klitschko, the champion and Chris Arreola. Suffice to say that the bout ended in the tenth round with a TKO . And the champion , Klitschko was declared the winner. What I for one found repugnant was the fact that the challenger, Arreola , came into the bout highly touted as a fighter. Well he put up about as much of a fight as the French were known have done in surrendering Paris to the Germans in Word War II. Dan Goossen , as the promoter of the event and the WBC at this moment ought to taking some time and asking themselves what the f_ck just happened ?

Vitali  Klitschko  celebrates  his  tenth  round  TKO   of the  challenger   Chris  Arreola   for  his  WBC  heavyweight title  .  The   bout   took   place   at  the  Staples   Center  ,  Los Angeles  ,  California.,   picture  appears  courtesy  of  getty images/  Donald  Miralle /Bongarts/
Vitali Klitschko celebrates his tenth round TKO of the challenger Chris Arreola for his WBC heavyweight title . The bout took place at the Staples Center , Los Angeles , California., picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Donald Miralle /Bongarts/

Now pardon me for saying this, but the Fedex Cup playoff system that the PGA Tour now has in place , elicits about as much excitement as seeing Rosie O’Donnell adorning a stripper pole. And for the lesbians out there who may well feel slighted by my comments then please accept my humble apologies ! The season ending Tour Championship, in the end came down to the game’s two best players, in Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson making the event something of a spectacle. But in terms of sheer entertainment and excitement. It bordered on being anti-climactic. Woods was never in with a chance of losing in the overall standings. And while Mickelson had a memorable win of the event. There wasn’t much else that we could glean from this all. On the PGA Tour at present , it’s merely Tiger’s world and about just about everyone else is just playing for the privilege of being alongside him , in being a part of the final pairing on the last day of an event.

Woods watches  his  tee  shot    on  the  seventh   hole   during  the  final  round  of  the  Tour  Championship  played  at  the  East  Golf  Club   in  Atlanta  , Georgia., .   The event   would  be  won  by  Phil  Mickelson  with   Woods   finishing   in  second  place   , four  shots   off  the  lead.     The  overall   Fedex  Cup  standings and  points  table  was   won  by  Woods.    In  addition  to the  second   place  prize  money    Woods  takes   home   a  $10  million   payoff  by way of an annuity.     picture  appears   courtesy  of   getty images/  Scott Halleran  .......................
Woods watches his tee shot on the seventh hole during the final round of the Tour Championship played at the East Golf Club in Atlanta , Georgia., . The event would be won by Phil Mickelson with Woods finishing in second place , four shots off the lead. The overall Fedex Cup standings and points table was won by Woods. In addition to the second place prize money Woods takes home a $10 million payoff by way of an annuity. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Scott Halleran .......................

Three weeks into the NFL season and what heave we learned ? Well, the Oakland Raiders are still a long way off from where they want to be. And for those fans of the Raiders ,who feel that this team even has some semblance of being disciplined . Then please entertain me with your thoughts on what it is that leads you believe that they are ? Because , as of yet , I’ve yet to witness it, from this team. The Raiders seem to be content with portraying a team that’s inept. Or it could well be that the organization and their fans are quite content with the direction that the team is said to be going in , at this time.

Raiders'   quarterback   JaMarcus  Russell  (2) talks  with his  quarterback's  coach  on the  sidelines   of  the  game   played   against the   Denver  Broncos   in  Oakland  Alameda  County  Stadium  on  Sunday.    The  Raiders   would  end  up  losing the  game to  their  divisional  rivals   23-3  .      picture appears  courtesy  of   getty  images/   Jed  Jacobsohn  ......................
Raiders' quarterback JaMarcus Russell (2) talks with his quarterback's coach on the sidelines of the game played against the Denver Broncos in Oakland Alameda County Stadium on Sunday. The Raiders would end up losing the game to their divisional rivals 23-3 . picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Jed Jacobsohn ......................

Somehow, some way the Raiders found a way to further sink into the depths of ineptitude. In their home game played against AFC West divisional rivals, the Denver Broncos. This Tom Cable coached team , merely shows us now, that they’ve no right whatsoever to call themselves an NFL franchise. They do the very term an injustice! But yet ‘Raider Nation’ remains deeply faithful to the organization. Their thoroughly lopsided loss 23-3 to the Broncos , would suggest that the team still has a lot to learn. No one more so , than their starting quarterback JaMarcus Russell. But what might be even more galling is the fact the talents of players , such as Michael Bush and Darren McFadden are being wasted.

While the Raiders continue to be content with the travails of Russell as a player, in the NFL. It’s my contention that the Raiders deserve far much more than they’re presently getting from Russell. But rather than having improved at the position. He’s regressed as a player and at the position. His decision making is horrendous and his understanding of the game borders on the fact that he can’t yet read defenses-much less understand the playbook. Defensively, let’s just say that the team hasn’t any semblance of that , at all !

Raiders'  coach   Tom  Cable   argues  with the  sideline   judge   Barry  Anderson   during  the  game  played  against  the  Denver  Broncos   on  Sunday  afternoon.   picture  appears   courtesy  of  getty  images/  Ezra  Shaw  ...................
Raiders' coach Tom Cable argues with the sideline judge Barry Anderson during the game played against the Denver Broncos on Sunday afternoon. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Ezra Shaw ...................

And if you were under the impression that the Oakland Raiders were the only team to be languishing in the bowels of ineptitude. Then think again ! The Cleveland Browns , Kansas City Chiefs, St Louis Rams , Tampa Bay Buccaneers and last season’s AFC East division winners , the Miami Dolphins . All of whom , are now staking a claim ,as to who might just be the worst team in the NFL at present.

Bucs'  quarterback  Byron  Leftwich  (7),center,  calls a  play in the  huddle   in  the  game   against  the  New  York  Giants  , played  at Raymond    James  Stadium  in  Tampa ,  Florida,.    The  Buccaneers   would   be  shutout   by  the  Giant   24-0.      picture appears  courtesy of  getty   images /   J  Meric  ...................
Bucs' quarterback Byron Leftwich (7),center, calls a play in the huddle in the game against the New York Giants , played at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa , Florida,. The Buccaneers would be shutout by the Giant 24-0. picture appears courtesy of getty images / J Meric ...................

My choice, as to who now holds that unique distinction , as being the worst team in the NFL. Well look no further than the NFC South‘s Tampa Bay Buccaneers . They’re now making the Detroit Lions‘ winless season of a year ago, seem like a stark reality that it’ll be repeated once again. Already at 0-3 and their division being somewhat of a competitive one. Their fans now have to put up with the idiocy of their young first year coach ,Raheem Morris, making ridiculous statements about the commitment and competitiveness of his players. I know it’s one thing to try and spur and encourage your players. But what Morris is now trying to inspire , isn’t at all helping situation. Especially when it comes to the very fact that the players themselves possess about as much will to win as you or I would want to have one of our legs chopped off , just for the fun of it.

Bucs'  backup  quarterback   Josh  Johnson (11)  signals a  play   prior  to the   snap.     Johnson   has  since  been  promoted  to  the  starting   position  with  Leftwich  being   demoted  to  the   role  of   backup.   No   word as   of  yet  as  to  when    rookie  Josh  Freeman  will  take  to  the field.   He's still  Raheem  Morris'   'project  in the  making'   as  of  now.      picture  appears courtesy  of  getty  images  /  J  Meric  ..............................
Bucs' backup quarterback Josh Johnson (11) signals a play prior to the snap. Johnson has since been promoted to the starting position with Leftwich being demoted to the role of backup. No word as of yet as to when rookie Josh Freeman will take to the field. He's still Raheem Morris' 'project in the making' as of now. picture appears courtesy of getty images / J Meric ..............................

Sunday , we saw this Buccaneers’ team perform with all the adroitness of an overweight ballet dancer who’d forgotten their steps. And all this was done, as they entertained their guests ,the New York Giants at Raymond James Stadium , in Tampa ,Florida. The resulting game ended with the Giants ‘blowing out’ the Buccaneers 24-0 . This was all made easier by the sheer audacity and inept play by the Buccaneers on both sides of the ball. I’d contend that instead of Eli Manning quarterbacking the Giants. You could have inserted either Andrea Bocelli or Clay Aiken into the position , you may well have gotten slightly better production from either in the position playing for the Buccaneers. But the end result, would still have been the same . And if you feel that my contempt of the Buccaneers is overdone. Then consider this, it tells you something as to how inadequate this team is when their # 3 quarterback , Josh Johnson had more passing yards and rushing yards than the other members’ of the Bucs’ offense combined, in the game on Sunday. And when one bears in mind that the Buccaneers’ starting quarterback is none other than Byron Leftwich . We can all agree that Johnson’s achievement on the day weren’t all that lofty to begin with. His stats don’t exactly shoot out at you but neither does Leftwich’s.

Bucs'  coach   Raheem Morris  (arms folded)  watches   his  team  from  the  sidelines  as  they  play  the  New  York   Giants  on  Sunday  in  an  NFL  game  played  at   Raymond  James  Stadium  in  Tampa ,  Florida.  picture  appears  courtesy  of  getty  images/   J   Meric  .................
Bucs' coach Raheem Morris (arms folded) watches his team from the sidelines as they play the New York Giants on Sunday in an NFL game played at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa , Florida. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ J Meric .................

As anemic as this Bucs’ defense is, their offense their offense just might be even worse. This isn’t an offense that’s going to scare anynone , much less , put up in excess of 25 or 30 points a game . They haven’t got it within them to do so ! And their options at the quarterback position isn’t liable to get any better with the introduction of their rookie Josh Freeman . This is the player in whom Morris had categorically stated that ” ……. were I to make the choice all over again. I’d still pick Freeman over Mark Sanchez”. Strong talk from a rookie coach who’s yet to attain a win at the professional level within the NFL. Needless to say that the New York Jets are indeed happy in their choice of first round draft pick Mark Sanchez.

Jason Horowitz of CBS Sports and of Pat Kirwin of NFL.com provide you with their pregame analysis of the game. Little did they know that their concerns with the Giants would be of no merit. On the other hand their analysis on the Bucs was spot on.

Giants' running  back    Ahmad  Bradshaw  (44)  runs  the  ball  against the  Buccaneers  on   Sunday.   The Giants'  offense   had  their  way  with  an   undersized  and   unathletic  Bucs'   defensive  squad   throughout the entire  game.      picture  appears   courtesy of    getty  images/  J  Meric  ...................................
Giants' running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) runs the ball against the Buccaneers on Sunday. The Giants' offense had their way with an undersized and unathletic Bucs' defensive squad throughout the entire game. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ J Meric ...................................

There have been many things that the Bucs’ fans have had to contend with over the years. But this present situation if it goes unabated may well just be the worse thing yet that they’ll find themselves being a part of. And that includes the ungodly years where winning was the farthest thing away from their minds. Losing then was the metaphor for success as far as they were concerned. Especially if the margin of the loss was under 25 points. It hadn’t yet been part of they psyche. And even having become successful , they went away from the things that got them there . As the feeling was that they’d ‘arrived’ and were finally amongst the “big time ” in terms of what success really meant.

Giants'  wide  receiver  Sinorice Moss (83)  catches  a  touchdown  pass   over the  shoulder  of   Bucs'  cornerback  Aqib  Talib (25)  ensuant to  the  Giants   24-0  defeat  of  the  Buccaneers  at  Raymond   James  Stadium  in  Tampa  ,  Florida  .    picture appears courtesy of   getty  images/  J  Meric  ........................
Giants' wide receiver Sinorice Moss (83) catches a touchdown pass over the shoulder of Bucs' cornerback Aqib Talib (25) ensuant to the Giants 24-0 defeat of the Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa , Florida . picture appears courtesy of getty images/ J Meric ........................

Now their trials and travails have once again become all the more glaring , for all too see. And it’s hard to see how they can now extricate themselves from the mess that they’re now in. An inexperienced coach , a team that lacks leadership , but above a team that has a real desire to acquit themselves well on the field of play . Seemingly these are the traits that this team now possesses . And it’s not at pretty in terms of what’s now being served up to their fans and the NFL as a whole !