Reagan on Raising Debt Ceiling

Ronald Reagan would definitely NOT fit it with today's GOP.

Cardinals 13, Buccaneers 10

Big win today for the Cardinals, 13-10 over the Buccaneers in Tampa Bay.  The Cardinals move to 2-2 on the season.  It wasn't pretty though, the Cards trailed 10-0 going into the 4th quarter before finally waking up and scoring 13 late points. They need to find a way to get more consistency out of that offense.  A road win is a road win though I guess, I'll take it, they aren't going to win many more playing like this though. 

Observations:

• Just when I was beginning to doubt Patrick Peterson he intercepts 2 passes. 
• QB Carson Palmer has been quite underwhelming thus far this season.   
• I'm not sure if I agree with spending the past week in Florida.  
• Injuries are really decimating the Cardinals defense.  
• The Cardinals are becoming quite the 4th quarter team. 
• No catches for Larry Fitzgerald in the first half, 6 in the second half though.
• The Cardinals only had 56 yards rushing today, that needs to improve.  
• Jonathan Cooper would sure look good on that Cardinals offensive line. 
• Bucs RB Doug Martin held to 45 yards on 27 carries, that's only 1.7 yards per carry.
• Cardinals LB Darryl Washington will be available next week!  He's been missed.
• Andre Ellington has been providing a nice spark offensively. 
• Mike Glennon played well early, then played like a rookie the rest of the way for the Bucs.
• Up next?  @ University of Phoenix Stadium to take on the Panthers.

Vikings 34, Steelers 27

The Vikings finally win one as they knock off the Steelers 34-27 today in London.  The Vikings improve to 1-3 on the season.  The story of this game was Matt Cassel, while hardly sterling, his ability to stretch the field really seemed to open things up for the rest of the Vikings offense.  If I'm Leslie Frazier, Cassel keeps the starting job, his 123.4 QB rating was far better than anything that we've seen out of Christian Ponder this season. 

Observations:

• Matt Cassel didn't exactly light it up but he did keep the Steelers defense honest.  
• Everson Griffen finally showed up!  He can be a difference maker.  
• What has happened to the Vikings defense this year? 
• Welcome back Jerome Felton, you were missed. 
• Great touchdown by Greg Jennings, that's some nice YAC!
• Adrian Peterson had140 yards on 23 carries, plus 2 TD's.  
• Jerome Simpson had 7 catches for 124 yards.  Nice game!
• The Vikings 2 minute defense just plain stinks.    
• I still want to see more Desmond Bishop!  He should be out there more!
• Cordarrelle Patterson is becoming quite the threat as a kickoff return man. 
• Ben Rothlisberger really does do a great job of buying time. 
• The Steelers are now 0-4 for the first time in 45 years.
• Was that Gene Simmons singing the national anthem?  
• Wembley Stadium seems like a good place to watch a football game. 
• Up next?  Bye week next week, then @ Mall of American Field to take on the Panthers.

Farewell Mariano Rivera

Best Relief Pitcher ever.  First ballot Hall of Famer.  Class individual.  It was a nice run!

Arizona St 62, USC 41

Arizona State topped Southern Cal 62-41 last night in Tempe.  The Sun Devils move to 3-1 on the season.  It sure was nice to see ASU finally lay a beat down on USC.  I think it's safe to say that Todd Graham has this ASU program moving in the right direction.  The offense was clicking on all cylinders.  Taylor Kelly, Marion Grice, Jaelen Strong, Chris Coyle and D.J. Foster form quite a potent offense. The key for Arizona State the rest of the way will be improved play out their defense, they really need to tighten things up down the stretch. Good win!

Observations:

• It was nice knowing you Lane Kiffin.  
• 4 more TD's for Marion Grice, he's unstoppable near the goal line.  
• Nice game for Taylor Kelly, he's finding his groove. 
• The start of WR Jaelen Strong's ASU career has been pretty impressive.  
• It was good to see TE Chris Coyle getting worked back into the gameplan.
• Arizona State's rush defense needs some work.  Jaxon Hood would help too.
• I'm conflicted about the Michael Eubanks goal line packages.
• So much for that vaunted Southern Cal defense.  
• Southern Cal had defeated Arizona State in 12 of their last 13 meetings. 
• Arizona State DT Will Sutton proves that he is still a force.  
• Arizona State is now 10-0 under Todd Graham when leading at half time. 
• I love how well disciplined Arizona State has played under Todd Graham. 
• Arizona State DB Irabor really impressed me.  
• Total Yards:   Arizona State 612; USC 542
• Third Quarter scoring:  Arizona State 28, USC 7
• 4 turnovers by Southern Cal, that's typically hard to overcome. 
• 2 interceptions by Arizona State DB Alden Darby.
• I hope that Southern Cal WR Marqise Lee's knee injury isn't serious. 
• Sun Devils debut new helmets for Maroon Monsoon.
• Up next?  Notre Dame @ Cowboy Stadium next Saturday.

Minnesota 7, Iowa 23

The Gophers fall to the Hawkeyes 23-7 today at TCF Bank Stadium in Minneapolis to fall to 4-1 on the season.  It feels like deja vu all over again, feast on weak non-conference opponents, then get slapped around once B1G play starts.  Very disheartening to say the least.  I saw it coming too, they've been just way too one dimensional coming into this game, until they can play a more balance offense they are going to struggle when they play quality opponents.  They also need to get bigger, stronger and deeper.  I was hoping this reality check wouldn't come so soon.  It's getting old. 

Observations:

• Philip Nelson starts and plays the whole game at QB for the Gophers. 
• Why no Mitch Leidner at QB though?  He played well last week and Nelson struggled.
• So much for that vaunted Gopher rushing attack, just 30 yards rushing (1.1 yard per carry). 
• The Gophers need to find some playmakers on both sides of the ball. 
• Iowa dominated both side of the line of scrimmage.  
• Total Yards:   Iowa 464, Minnesota 165 
• Time of Possession:  Iowa 36:01, Minnesota 23:59
• Just 11 first downs for the Gophers today. 
• Is Iowa better than anticipated or are the Gophers just not as good as hoped for? 
• The Gophers schedule doesn't get any easier going forward.
• The Gophers really need to find a way to generate a pass rush. 
• Congratulations to Drew Wolitarsky on his first collegiate reception. 
• Mark Weisman is a load of a RB for Iowa.  147 yards on 24 carries.
• Floyd of Rosedale stays in Iowa City.  
• Up next?   @ The Big House next Saturday to take on Michigan. 

A Good Week for Jon Stewart

He was lobbed softballs all week and he smacked them all out of the park.

The Daily Show with Jon Stewart

The Daily Show with Jon Stewart

More here, here & here.

14th Amendment of the Constitution

Isn't it usually the Republicans and Tea Party member who drape themselves in the flag and the constitution?   Aren't they also the ones now threatening to shut down the government over the funding of the debt?  Does it occur to anyone else that they are maybe not as familiar with the constitution as they claim to be?   Check it out. 

14th Amendment of the Constitution; Section 4:
"The validity of the public debt of the United States, authorized by law, including debts incurred for payment of pensions and bounties for services in suppressing insurrection or rebellion, shall not be questioned. But neither the United States nor any State shall assume or pay any debt or obligation incurred in aid of insurrection or rebellion against the United States, or any claim for the loss or emancipation of any slave; but all such debts, obligations and claims shall be held illegal and void."

Section. 4. The validity of the public debt of the United States, authorized by law, including debts incurred for payment of pensions and bounties for services in suppressing insurrection or rebellion, shall not be questioned. But neither the United States nor any State shall assume or pay any debt or obligation incurred in aid of insurrection or rebellion against the United States, or any claim for the loss or emancipation of any slave; but all such debts, obligations and claims shall be held illegal and void. - See more at: http://constitution.findlaw.com/amendment14/amendment.html#sthash.dbFKuigk.dpuf

Section. 4. The validity of the public debt of the United States, authorized by law, including debts incurred for payment of pensions and bounties for services in suppressing insurrection or rebellion, shall not be questioned. But neither the United States nor any State shall assume or pay any debt or obligation incurred in aid of insurrection or rebellion against the United States, or any claim for the loss or emancipation of any slave; but all such debts, obligations and claims shall be held illegal and void. - See more at: http://constitution.findlaw.com/amendment14/amendment.html#sthash.dbFKuigk.dpuf

Section. 4. The validity of the public debt of the United States, authorized by law, including debts incurred for payment of pensions and bounties for services in suppressing insurrection or rebellion, shall not be questioned. But neither the United States nor any State shall assume or pay any debt or obligation incurred in aid of insurrection or rebellion against the United States, or any claim for the loss or emancipation of any slave; but all such debts, obligations and claims shall be held illegal and void. - See more at: http://constitution.findlaw.com/amendment14/amendment.html#sthash.dbFKuigk.dpuf

Debt Ceiling Ransom Letter

Have you seen the Republicans demands to fund the debt?  Talk about a handout to the rich and powerful.  They really are insane if they think they are going to get all of this.  

• One Year Debt Limit Increase
  • Not a dollar amount increase, but suspending the debt limit until the end of December 2014.
    
    • Similar to what was done earlier in the year.
      
  • Want the year long to align with the year delay of Obamacare.
    
• One Year Obamacare delay
• Tax Reform Instructions
  • Similar to a bill passed last fall, laying out broad Ryan Budget principles for what tax reform should look like.
    
  • Gives fast track authority for tax reform legislation
    
• Energy and regulatory reforms to promote economic growth
  • Includes pretty much every jobs bill passed this year and last Congress
    
  • All of these policies have important positive economic effects.
    
  • Energy provisions
    
    • Keystone Pipeline
      
    • Coal Ash regulations
      
    • Offshore drilling
      
    • Energy production on federal lands
      
    • EPA Carbon regulations
      
  • Regulatory reform
    
    • REINS Act
      
    • Regulatory process reform
      
    • Consent decree reform
      
    • Blocking Net Neutrality
      
• Mandatory Spending Reforms
  • Mostly from the sequester replacement bills passed last year
    
  • Federal Employee retirement reform
    
  • Ending the Dodd Frank bailout fund
    
  • Transitioning CFPB funding to Appropriations
    
  • Child Tax Credit Reform to prevent fraud
    
  • Repealing the Social Services Block grant
    
• Health Spending Reforms
  • Means testing Medicare
    
  • Repealing a Medicaid Provider tax gimmick
    
  • Tort reform
    
  • Altering Disproportion Share Hospitals
    
  • Repealing the Public Health trust Fund
    

Under Boobs!

Obama on the GOP

Great quote from President Obama on the GOP, spot on too:

"Now, I think -- this is an interesting thing to ponder, that your top agenda is making sure 20 million people don’t have health insurance. And you'd be willing to shut down the government and potentially default for the first time in United States history because it bothers you so much that we're actually going to make sure that everybody has affordable health care."

AZ Tidbits

• Glendale preparing bid for the 2016 NCAA Football Championship game.
• ASU extends contracts of Todd Graham & Steve Patterson.  
• Arizona state jobless rate jumps up sharply.   
• ESPN study ranks the Arizona Diamondbacks as the number 1 MLB franchise.
• Arizona has one of the nations highest rates of poverty. 
• I love those Arizona lightning showers. 
• Diamondbacks name Archie Bradley & Chris Owings as team's ML Pitchers/Players of the Year.
• This past Phoenix summer was the hottest on record.  
• 18 percent of Arizona residents lack health insurance, ranking 10th worst in nation. 
• Is Mesa Mayor Scott Smith running for Governor of Arizona?
• Trio of Arizonans make Forbes list of wealthiest Americans. 
• John McCain calls out the Dodger for the NL West clinching celebration at Chase Field. 
• Is a private prison system really the right for Arizona?  
• Arizona Cardinals DB Rashad Johnson is one tough hombre. 
• Chad Campbell announces that he will not run for Governor of Arizona. 
• Sheriff Joe Arpraio booted from latina conference.  Rightfully so.
• Arizona ranks as the fifth worst state to be unemployed. 
• The Arizona Cardinals lose starting LB's Sam Acho & Lorenzo Alexander for season.  
• Border Patrol agents in Ajo, AZ are living in some nice digs. 
• Bob Schieffer schools Arizona Congressman Matt Salmon on the reality based world.

Obama on the ACA

What is the GOP so afraid of?   Why are they lying about it? 

Cardinals 7, Saints 31

The Cardinals fall to 1-2 on the season today with a 31-7 loss to the Saints in New Orleans. The Cardinals offense was nowhere to be found today, I would probably credit the Saints defense for that more so than the Cardinals offense though, they were really swarming to the ball all game long.  When Drew Brees is on his game, he's also almost unstoppable.  The Saints are back, keep an eye out for them this season.  The Cardinals on the other hand have some work to do, they need to get healthy and they need to get everybody back on the field. 

Observations:

• The Saints are a different team with Sean Payton on the sidelines.
• The Cardinals offense was MIA today.   
• Carson Palmer was sacked 4 times and he threw 2 interceptions, he needs more time.  
• The Darnell Dockett we all know and love so much finally showed up on game day! 
• Time of Possession:  Cardinals 24:29; Saints 35:31 
• The Cardinals are very much missing starting LB Darryl Washington. 
• Chandler High School product Cameron Jordan had 2 sacks for the Saints.
• I wouldn't be opposed to Bobbie Massie getting Levi Brown's snaps at LT.
• Honey Badger with another big play, get used to it.  
• 12 tackles by Karlos Dansby.  He can't cover WR's though. 
• Rob Ryan was a good hire by the Saints to be their defensive coordinator.
• Condolences to Dan Williams and his family.
• Up next?  @ Tampa Bay to take on the Buccaneers.

Vikings 27, Browns 31

The Vikings fall to 0-3 on the season today with a 31-27 loss to the Cleveland Browns at Mall of America Field in Minneapolis.  This was a pretty inexcusable loss for the Vikings, they were at home against a winless opponent who where starting their backup QB and who had just traded their starting RB during the week, there's no way they should have lost this game.  Until the Vikings admit their mistake with Christian Ponder I don't see this team going anywhere, he completely limits what the Vikings can do offensively.  His one minute drive at the end of the game was a complete joke, they had no chance.  He is clearly not the long term answer for this team at QB and the sooner they realize it the better.  The coaching staff needs to do a better job too, they seem to be losing their team.  Bill Musgrave, Alan Williams and Mike Priefer were all out coached today, by a long shot. 

Observations:

• Brian Hoyer didn't exactly grasp onto that starting QB job, nice game winning drive though.
• Wherefore art thou Everson Griffen?  Isn't this a contract year for you?  
• The Vikings need CB Chris Cook to stay healthy.  CB depth is a concern. 
• 3 turnovers for the Vikings today, they aren't making it easy on themselves. 
• Were the Browns really successful on a fake punt and a fake FG in the same game?  
• 2 rushing TD's for Christian Ponder today.  He's still struggling through the air though.
• Lots of boo's in the dome today, it sounds like the natives are getting restless.  
• Where is the pass rush from the Vikings?  Hoyer had way too much time most of the game.
• More Desmond Bishop please!  Get him out there! 
• Contain Adrian Peterson and you contain the Minnesota Vikings. 
• Was that Letroy Guion playing fullback?
• Browns DE Barkevious Mingo is going to be a good one.
• The Vikings offensive line struggled once again, they are very overrated.  
• Teddy Bridgewater or Jadeveon Clowney?    
• Erin Henderson showed up late to the party, but played very well in the second half. 
• The Browns played the second half without a kicker, it didn't seem to matter much though. 
• Fumbles 2 games in a row for Adrian Peterson, say it isn't so. 
• Kevin Williams breaks the Vikings record for starts by at DT!  Well done KW. 
• This was the final opening day at Mall of America Field for the Vikings.  Good riddance!
• The Hubert H Humphrey family blew the Gjallarhorn before today's game.
• Up next?  In London, to take on the Steelers. 

Annual Deficit as Percentage of GDP

Do you notice a trend here?  Does this jibe with GOP talking points?

Arizona State 28, Stanford 42

The Sun Devils fall to 2-1 today with a 42-28 loss to Stanford in Palo Alto, CA.  This game was a bit of a reality check for the Sun Devils coming off their win over Wisconsin last week.  Stanford was by far the better team, they beat the Devil in every facet of the game and looked very worthy of their number 5 ranking.  Arizona State really struggles on the road for some reason, they looked really rattled early in this one before finally settling down and trying to make a game of it.  The Devils have a ways to go before they can compete with the top teams in the PAC12, they need to get bigger, deeper and stronger, that will take some time. 

Observations:

• There was no quit in the Sun Devils tonight, that was nice to see. 
• I'm guessing the NFL will come calling on Stanford coach David Shaw soon. 
• Taylor Kelly was rattled early.  He really struggles when pressured.
• Halftime score:  Stanford 29; Arizona State 0.  
• Will Sutton is either being double teamed or his added weight has really slowed him. 
• The Devils need to be sure that D.J. Foster is getting his touches.  
• Time of Possession:  Stanford 35:33; Arizona State 24:27.  
• Once again, way too many dropped passes by Arizona State.  
• Only 50 yards rushing by the Sun Devils, they need to maintain some semblance of balance. 
• I was impressed by the play of redshirt freshman LB Salamo Fiso tonight.
• Only 2 penalties on the game for the Devils, they need to keep that up. 
• 2 more TD's by Marion Grice. He's a touchdown machine!
• Heckuva game by ASU WR Jaelen Strong.  
• Up next?  USC @ Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe next Saturday night.

Minnesota 43, San Jose State 24

The Gophers move to 4-0 today with a 43-24 victory over San Jose State at TCF Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.  The Gophers took their running game to another level today, they gained 353 yards rushing, they completely dominated the line of scrimmage and time of possession battles.  Once again, they just wore their opponent down.  151 yards rushing for Mitch Leidner, 121 yards rushing for David Cobb, 6 rushing TD's.  On the downside, the Gophers only threw for 71 yards today, that has to get better as they head into the B1G schedule, they also gave up 439 passing yards, that will need to improve also.  As expected, the Gophers will now take their 4-0 record into B1G play, there are no gimme's from this point on, let's hope for the best. 

Observations:

• I would say the Gophers have a full fledged QB controversy.  
• Gopher QB Mitch Leidner is a beast running the football. 
• The Gopher passing game still needs a lot of work. 
• Ben Lauer looked very good at the LT spot today.  
• LB Aaron Hill is the most underrated player on the Gophers squad. 
• The Gophers defense gave up too many big plays.  
• Time of Possession:  Minnesota 41:02; San Jose State 18:58. 
• Eric Murray has played well but still has a ways to go at CB for the Gophers.
• I've been very impressed with the play of LB De'Vondre Campbell. 
• RB David Cobb continues to impress.  I love the Gophers RB depth. 
• I did not like to see 2 missed extra points, those can haunt you.  
• Gophers do not beat themselves.  Least penalized team in B1G.  
• SJSU punter Harrison Waid may want to work on his anger management issues.  
• Once again, nice half time adjustments by Gophers DC Tracy Claeys.  
• Props to SJSU WR Chandler Jones, he had a heckuva game. 
• I'm not a big fan of Beth Mowins calling the game on ESPN. 
• It's safe to say, SJSU QB David Fales will be playing on Sundays. 
• Up next?  Iowa in the B1G opener at TCF Bank Stadium next Saturday.

Flying Eagles POV

I love this.  They somehow attached a video camera on an eagle, this is the end result.

 

POTpourri

• Do you know how to tell if a woman is DTF? 
• Byron Buxton wins Baseball America's 2013 Minor League Player of the Year Award. 
• Is wealth inequality reaching a tipping point?   
• Some CEO's are cheating their way to higher pay.
• Who are the Top 10 Athletes turned Actors? 
• It's looking more and more like a GOP civil war is coming.  
• Would Michael Bloomberg make a good Presidential candidate?  
• You can catch Pearl Jams new single "Sirens" here. 
• Should Floyd Mayweather Jr be considered the best boxer ever?  
• RIP Ken Norton & Mike Dunbar.   
• A government shutdown would be a disaster for Republicans. 
• AMC's "The Walking Dead" get's a spinoff.   
• Cleveland Browns deal Trent Richardson to the Indianapolis Colts. 
• Forbes releases their updated list of the Richest People in America.
• Catalina Otalvaro in a bikini here!  So hot!!!
• Jon Stewart calls out the GOP on their love of the second amendment.
• Kenichi Ebina wins 2013 "America's Got Talent" crown. 
• The Top 10 Coaching Rants of All Time.  
• The Los Angeles Lakers unveil their black jerseys. 
• 2013 "Saturday Night Live" selects new cast members.

September Flavor of the Month . . . .

. . . . is Hillary Fisher.  It's doesn't get much better than this girl!  Facebook here.  Twitter here.

Yet Another Mass Shooting

Yet another mass shooting, and how do we respond?  With resignation of course because nobody dares take on our all powerful gun lobby.  So we just sit back and wait for the next one.  How fucking sad is that?  I for one am getting tired of all the carnage.  Why has this become acceptable?  Why can't we stop believing that more guns on the street is the answer?   Let's toughen the gun laws, toughen the background checks, put limits on semi-automatic shotguns and magazine clips.  It may not stop the mass shootings but at least it should be able to lessen the carnage.  This is not ACCEPTABLE!  In the meantime, since none of that is going to happen, here are 10 ways to survive a mass shooting, learn them, live them, it's your only hope. 

Income Inequality

Why has this become acceptable to so many?  We can do better, we must do better.

Cardinals 25, Lions 21

The Cardinals knock off the Lions 25-21 today at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale.  I'm really liking what I'm seeing from this Bruce Arians offense, I just love their approach.  Same goes for Carson Palmer, don't let the rumors of his demise foul you, he's still got some life left in him.  They are just head and shoulder better than they were last year.  Hopefully, they can keep this up. 

Observations:

• The Cardinals defense did not give up a single point in the 2nd half. 
• Only 1 sack allowed by the Cardinals today, much improved.  
• Nice NFL regular season debut for ASU product Kerry Taylor.  
• Rob Housler's inability to stay healthy is becoming problematic.  
• The Cardinals need to get better on 3rd down.  Just 1 of 11.  
• Justin Bethel is one helluva special teams player.  
• The Honey Badger made his presence felt once again.  He knows football.
• Andre Ellington looks like a 6th round steal for the Cardinals.
• MegaTron is just unstoppable.  
• Patrick Peterson on the other hand is just a Super Freak. 
• Carson Palmer now over 30K yards passing in his career, impressive.
• Up next?  @ New Orleans to take on the Saints.

Vikings 30, Bears 31

The Vikings fall to the Bears 31-30 today in Chicago. The Bears scored at touchdown with 10 seconds remaining to secure the victory.  The Vikings fall to 0-2 on the season.  What a weird game, it didn't seem like either team wanted to win this one, there were mistakes galore from both sides.  Christian Ponder looked horrendous in the first half but actually looked like an NFL QB in the second half, the Vikings are going to need much more consistency out of him moving forward.  They need to fix their defense too, they gave up way to many yards today.   

Observations:

• Cordarrelle Patterson started the game off wonderfully. 
• The Vikings offense is way too one dimensional and easy to defend. 
• The Cover-2 defense so 1985.  Why are the Vikings so reluctant to change? 
• The Vikings LB's are a mess.  Desmond Bishop needs to be on the field. 
• The Bears have now beaten the Vikings 12 of the last 13 times in Chicago. 
• Christian Ponder is apparently on a very short leash, as he should be. 
• 100 yards rushing for Adrian Peterson.  His pace is well short of his 2500 yards goal. 
• It was good to see Kevin Williams back on the field. 
• Jamarca Sanford did not have one of his better games.  
• What was the deal with the Vikings red zone play calling late in the game? 
• Jared Allen earned his money today. 
• Technically difficulties can really ruin my enjoyment of a football game
• The Vikings kickoff coverage leaves lots to be desired.
• Up next?  Last Metrodome home opener, vs the Cleveland Browns next Sunday.

Carl's Jr Knows Commercials

I love those Carl's Jr's commercials.  Here's the latest.



That's Marilia Moreno BTW.   It sounds like Katherine Webb is up next.

Arizona St 32, Wisconsin 30

The Sun Devils knock off the Badgers 32-30 tonight at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe.  The Sun Devils improve to 2-0 on the season.  This is a big win for the Sun Devils, Todd Graham really needed to beat a quality opponent.  It wasn't an easy win though, they seemed intent on giving it away, they made a lot of mistakes and quite frankly were out coached.  And that ending???? 

Observations:

• That was as bizarre a finish to a football game that I've ever seen.  
• Marion Grice is a touchdown machine! 
• ASU started out fast once again.  This is a nice habit to get into.  
• WTF was Punter Dom Vizarre thinking on that punt attempt?
• Wisconsin did a nice job of neutralizing Will Sutton. Were they dirty though? 
• Catch those passes Richard Smith!!!
• Wisconsin had some trouble with the speed of ASU's defense.  
• Osahon Irabor had a nice game from the secondary. 
• Melvin Gordon is a pretty impressive looking RB for Wisconsin. 
• Nice tribute to the Yarnell 19 by Arizona State tonight.  
• I love when they have blackout night at Sun Devil Stadium. 
• Up next?  @ Stanford next Saturday.

Minnesota 29, Western Illinois 12

The Gophers improved to 3-0 today with a 29-12 win over Western Illinois.  I wasn't too impressed with the Gophers today, I was expecting them to play better against an FCS team.  WIU was too close for much too long in this game.  In their first 3 games the Gophers have just worn down their smaller outmanned opponents, that's not going to happen from here on out as the schedule gets much tougher from this point on.  Still, 3-0 is 3-0, I'll take it. 

Observations:

• Ra'shede Hageman had another impressive game.  He was in beast mode!
• Another on field seizure for Jerry Kill.  Business goes on as usual though.
• Do we have a QB controversy?  Mitch Leidner looked good today. 
• I really like Maxx Williams, he's going to be a good one.  
• Nice game for David Cobb, 2 TD's & 82 yards rushing.
• The 2 sacks from DE Theiren Cochran was nice to see. 
• The Gophers offense is still much too predictable.  Run-Run-Pass-Punt. 
• Roderick Williams legs just never stop moving.  
• Only 2 penalties for the Gophers today.
• Gopher OL did not get much push, they need to do better. 
• Too many soft cushions early on by the Gopher CB's.  
• Western Illinois' Bob Nielson is a good football coach.  
• I love the Western Illinois Leathernecks nickname.  
• Up next?  San Jose State @ TCF Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.

AZ Tidbits

• Marijuana Policy Project plans Arizona legalization measure in 2016.
• Arizona Senator John McCain hints at marijuana legalization. 
• Phoenix Suns release forward Michael Beasley.  He then signs with Miami. 
• Arizona job recovery lags behind nation.
• Danny White heads the Arizona Republic list of the top 50 All-Time ASU football players.
• Ricky Hunley heads the Arizona Republic list of the top 50 All-Time UA football players.
• Things seem to be getting a little bit out of control at Arizona State University. 
• RIP Alexis Urbina.  
• ASU is 30, UA is 44 on the U.S. News & World Report ranking of business schools.
• The Phoenix Coyotes open training camp!!!  Yeah, there still here!
• It appears that the voters will have a say on voter suppression act HB2305.
• Is Diamondbacks manager Kirk Gibson on the hot seat? 
• Judge clears path for higher contributions limits.  Plutocracy rules.
• Are you familiar with Fred DuVal?  You should be.
• Goldwater Institute sues Arizona over Medicaid expansion. 
• Official Arizona GOP body passes rebuke of John McCain. 
• More than 200 new Arizona laws go into effect today. 
• Watch out for those boulders when visiting Arizona.
• Poll finds people either love living in Arizona, or hate it.
• Diamondbacks SS prospect Chris Owings wins Pacific Coast League MVP Award.

Karl Rove Syria Flip Flop

Can you say hypocrite? 

Karl Rove, before President Obama decided to get congressional approval to strike Syria:
"Obama must go to Congress first before taking action against Syria, otherwise it would be political suicide."

Karl Rove, after President Obama decided to get congressional approval to strike Syria:
"Obama's request for Congressional approval is just a delaying tactic that proves he is indecisive."

Colbert on the Myth of Reagan

The Colbert Report

Colbert about sums it up as only he can do.  

I too am at a loss to understand how Ronald Reagan has reached such godlike status to so many on the right.  My lord, he's been out of office for almost 30 years now and we're still reeling from the damage that he did.  What an unmitigated disaster he was.

POTpourri

• 24 Things Single People are Tired of Hearing. 
• President Obama did a masterful job of handling the Syria crisis. 
• DOJ admits regulated marijuana industry preferable to the black market.
• Nude Melissa Giraldo pictures here!!!
• RIP David Frost & Tommy Morrison. 
• Paul Ryan's was for Obama's Syria strategy before he was against it. 
• Tokyo awarded 2020 Summer Olympic games.  
• Are these the 50 Best Asses in the world?  
• Peter King (R-NY) announces 2016 Presidential run.
• Are you familiar with how the Tea Party got played by the top 1 percent? 
• Bruno Mars to perform at the Super Bowl halftime show.  Good pick. 
• Roger Nadal and Serena Williams win 2013 U.S. Open Tennis titles.  
• George Zimmerman arrested on assault charges.  Karma's a bitch.  
• Kate Upton wins Model of the Year Award. 
• Sounds like lots of shenanigans within the Oklahoma St football program.
• Apple introduces two new iPhones.
• U.S. Men's National Soccer team clinches berth in the 2014 World Cup.
• Did you catch Jimmy Kimmel's "twerking girl on fire" hoax video?
• Las Vegas to get the world's highest ferris wheel. 
• Ndamukong Suh gets largest fine for on-field incident in NFL history.

Musburger Interviews Eminem

This is classic!  Can you say awkward? 

Cardinals 24, Rams 27

The Cardinals kicked off the 2013-14 NFL season today with a 27-24 loss to the Rams in St. Louis. After last seasons debacle, it was nice to watch an NFL caliber football team on the field again.  It was a winnable game too, they were up 24-13 late into the 3rd quarter, they just couldn't close it out.  It was a step in the right direction though, I think that Bruce Arians is going to get this thing turned around. 

Observations:

• Larry Fitzgerald has to be happy to have a real QB again. 
• The Honey Badger made his presence felt early.  
• I doubt that Jay Feely is feeling more secure in his job after today. 
• Cards need to get more pressure on the QB, I would have liked to have seen more John Abraham.
• Carson Palmer is already the best Cardinals QB since Kurt Warner. 
• Andre Roberts had a nice game, I like the Cardinals WR's. 
• Darnell Dockett needs to step his game up, he was barely noticeable.
• I had forgotten how bad Levi Brown really is.   
• Rob Housler needs to stay healthy and start living up to the hype. 
• Darryl Washington would have probably helped the Cardinals today. 
• Robert Quinn seems to love playing against the Arizona Cardinals.
• Up next?  The Lions @ University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale. 

Vikings 24, Lions 34

The Vikings kicked off their 2013-14 NFL season today with a thud, losing 34-24 in Detroit to the Lions.  The Lions were clearly the better team today, they beat the Vikings in all facets of the game.  If they can stay healthy and limited their mistakes, the Lions could actually make some noise this year.  Reggie Bush seems like a real nice pick up for them and I though Ziggy Ansah did some nice things at DE.  As for the Vikings?  They need to clear some things up quickly or they are looking at a long season. 

Observations:

• Adrian Peterson started his season like an MVP is suppose to, then promptly disappeared. 
• Christian Ponder continues to underwhelm.  He's clearly not the long term answer at QB. 
• The Vikings OL appears to be a bit overrated, they're really not strong enough up the middle.  
• Kevin Williams was missed in the middle of the Vikings defensive line. 
• The Vikings linebackers struggled.  They need Desmond Bishop out there.
• Time of Possession:  Lions 36:19, Vikings 23:41. 
• Are the Vikings incorporating some wishbone offense?  
• Where was the Vikings pass rush?  Everson Griffen and Brian Robison were invisible. 
• Nice game for Jerome Simpson, 7 catches for 140 yards. 
• I liked the looks of the Vikings purple pants. 
• Wait a minute, that wasn't Jason Hanson.  WTF? 
• Up next?  @ Chicago to take on the Bears.

Olbermann

I'm so happy that Keith Olbermann is back on TV.  Great stuff!

Minnesota 44, New Mexico St 21

The Gophers get off to a 2-0 start with a 44-21 win over the New Mexico State Aggies tonight in Las Cruces, NM.  This game was all about the rushing offense, special teams and big plays.  It was a nice win, let's not kid ourselves though, NMSU is not a good football program, this was expected.  After 2 games, I'm still not convinced the Gophers can play like this once the Big Ten season starts and expect the same results.  Their offense is just so vanilla.  Still, a 23 point win on the road is nothing to scoff at either, I'll take it. 

Observations:

• That's how you pound the rock!  342 yards on 43 carries for the Gophers.
• Marcus Jones knows how to return kicks!
• This is the first time the Gophers have scored 40+ points two games in a row since 2005.
• Roderick Williams had a nice game, as did David Cobb, I like the Gophers RB depth. 
• The Gophers passing game still needs some work. 
• Yes, that was a Willie Mobley sighting.  Good for him.
• 2 weeks in a row with a defensive TD for the Gophers, you've got to like that. 
• The Gophers seemed to go into the prevent defense a bit early. 
• Chris Hawthorne seems to be settling into the kickers job. 
• USA Today ranked NMSU number 121 (out of 125) in the FBS coming into the season.   
• NMSU may want to consider starting King Davis at QB moving forward.  Just saying.
• Should a college football program really have guns all over their helmets? 
• I'm not sure what was worst, BTN2GO or AggieVision. 
• Up next?  Western Illinois @ TCF Bank Stadium next Saturday. 

Don't Tread on Me!

Arizona St 55, Sacramento St 0

Arizona State opened their season tonight with a 55-0 route of Sacramento State.  How Sacramento State got on the schedule is beyond me.  I guess I'll take the win though, especially considering how tough the next 4 weeks are going to be (Wisconsin, Stanford, USC and Notre Dame).  It was an impressive win, no doubt about it, that Sun Devil offense is really fun to watch.  It's shaping up to be a fun season. 

Observations:

• Keep an eye out for Jaelen Strong at WR this year.  He's a good one. 
• Todd Graham's Sun Devils continue to strike early and often. 
• The middle of the field was open all night for the Sun Devils. 
• Taylor Kelly started right back up where he left off last year.   
• Total Yards:  Arizona State 523, Sacramento State 167.
• Todd Graham teams just do not get many penalties. 
• It appears that Zane Gonzales has taken the kicking job from Alex Garoutte.  
• Here's hoping that Chris Young's injury isn't serious.
• I love the new Tillman Tunnel.  That's some motivation.
• Up next?  Next Saturday @ home against Wisconsin.