Minnesota 3, Michigan St 14

The Gophers finished their regular season today with a 14-3 loss to Michigan State in East Lansing.  The Gophers fall to 8-4 (4-4 in the B1G) on the season with this loss.  The combined record of the four teams that beat Minnesota this year is 36-12, so it's not like they were beaten by any slouches either.  It's been a nice year for the Gophers, to take that next step though they are going to need to figure out a way to throw the ball a little more consistently.  Still, overall, I like the direction they are headed.    

Observations:

• Once again, Tracy Claeys was acting head coach with Jerry Kill in the coaching box.  
• No offensive touchdowns for the Gophers in the last 10 quarters.  Yikes.
• Philip Nelson has got to get better throwing the football.  
• Gopher QB's today, 9 of 25 for 125 yards, 0 TD's, 2 interceptions. 
• Did David Cobb really gain 101 yards rushing against the nations top rushing defense? 
• The Gophers really need a deep threat at WR, they are sorely lacking in big plays. 
• Ra'Shede Hageman had another strong game, he will be hard to replace.  
• Andre McDonald would have been a nice piece to this offense.  
• Time of Possession:  Minnesota 38:41, Michigan State 21:19. 
• Michigan State was 0-8 on third down today. 
• Theiren Cockran with another sack, he's had a nice season.
• Peter Mortell averaged 47.5 yards on 5 punts today.  Remember last years punting issues?
• I was very impressed with the play of the Gophers defense today.
• The Michigan State defense lived up to the hype, they're good! 
• Up next?  Bowl game baby, when and where to be determined.

2013 TPSG Turkey of the Year

What better day than Black Friday to name the winner of the 2013 TPSG Turkey of the Year Award.  There were no shortage of candidates this year but there was one clear winner in my mind.  So without further adieu, the winner of the 2013 TPSG Turkey of the Year Award is . . . .

TED CRUZ - the most divisive congressman in one of (if not the most) divisive congresses ever.  He's more responsible than any other politician for the recent government shutdown, he's hated in the Senate, he meddled where he doesn't belong in the House of Representatives, his faux filibuster made him a laughingstock, he put his own personal political ambitions ahead of the country, his ideology is out of touch with the masses and he has no clue on how to make the government actually govern more efficiently.  He's an easy winner in my book. 

Honorable Mention:

• Rob Ford - the crack smoking train wreck of a mayor of Toronto, Canada. 
• Aaron Hernandez - he killed a man, maybe more than one, enough said.  
• Rush Limbaugh - he really needs to stop with the rape analogies. 
• Anthony Weiner - keep you pants on buddy, it's time to find a real job outside of politics. 
• Ryan Braun - liar, cheat, narc, quite the trifecta. He even pissed off Dick Vitale. 
• Trey Radel - hypocritical Florida congressman arrested on drug charges
• Richie Incognito - it's time for Richie to grow up, perhaps not going by Richie would help.
• John Boehner - perhaps the worst Speaker of the House ever. 

Happy Thanksgiving!

Pope Francis on Trickle Down Theory

I'm really liking Pope Francis:

"Some people continue to defend trickle-down theories which assume that economic growth, encouraged by a free market, will inevitably succeed in bringing about greater justice and inclusiveness in the world.  This opinion, which has never been confirmed by the facts, expresses a crude and naive trust in the goodness of those wielding economic power and in the sacralized workings of the prevailing economic system.  Meanwhile, the excluded are still waiting."

“As long as the problems of the poor are not radically resolved by rejecting the absolute autonomy of markets and financial speculation and by attacking the structural causes of inequality, no solution will be found for the world’s problems or, for that matter, to any problems,” 

I really hope that the evangelical right are listening.  

Last Vegas

"Last Vegas" starring Robert DeNiro, Michael Douglas, Morgan Freeman & Kevin Kline as lifelong friends Paddy, Billy, Archie & Sam.  When Billy, the group's confirmed bachelor, decides to get married he invites his friends to Las Vegas for a bachelor party.  The twist of course is that they are all in their mid-sixties.  I enjoyed this movie, there were plenty of laughs, a few heartfelt moments and the cast as you would expect was top notch.  I love movies set in Las Vegas and this one was no exception, while it was no "Hangover", I would recommend it. 

I will give this movie 3 stars out of 5 (*****). 

Dwight Eisenhower

It sounds like he's describing today's Republican Party doesn't it?

Cardinals 40, Colts 11

The Cardinals pounded the Colts today 40-11 at University of Phoenix Stadium. With this win the Cardinals improve to 7-4 on the season. This was an intriguing matchup because Bruce Arians knows the Colts personnel very well but conversely the Colts were very much aware of Bruce Arian's offensive tendencies.  Turns out it was all Cardinals today, they are really playing some good football right now.  I really like the way this team plays football too, they are really aggressive and attacking on both sides of the ball, it's so much fun to watch.  Nice win Cards!

Observations:

• That's four wins in row for the Cardinals!
• No interceptions for Carson Palmer once again, he's really heating up! 
• This may have been Rashard Mendenhall's best game as a Cardinal. 
• Micheal Floyd has really upped his game over the past couple weeks. 
• I liked the way that Carson Palmer was spreading the ball around today.
• Total Yards:  Cardinals 410, Colts 239.
• Calais Campbell was in beast mode today.  
• Today was the first time that the Cardinals have scored over 30 points this year. 
• This just in, the Cardinals defense is good, real good.   
• Karlos Dansby has been a great free agent signing for the Cardinals.
• It was nice to see 2 more TD's for Larry Fitzgerald, they need him back on track. 
• Fitz became the youngest player in NFL history to gain 11,000 receiving yards. 
• I love that the Cardinals have Tom Moore on their sidelines, he's a brilliant offensive mind.
• 4 more field goals for Jay Feely.  Remember when they almost cut him? 
• NFC Wildcard battle is really heating up between Cards, 49ers & Panthers. 
• Up next?  @ Philadelphia to take on the Eagles.

Vikings 26, Packers 26

The Vikings blow yet another big lead but still manage to tie the Packers 26-26 today in Green Bay. The Vikings are now 2-8-1 on the season.  The Vikings held a 23-7 lead at one point but just couldn't hang on, it was rather disgusting.  The biggest issues for the Vikings at this point?  The coaching decisions leave a lot to be desired, I'd put that on top of the list.  QB play is also just not good enough, they desperately need an upgrade.  The defensive has been incredibly porous also (there is some talent there though so this one may go back to the coaching issues).  A new coach, a new QB and maybe a new linebacker or two would go a long way towards curing the Vikings woes. 

Observations:

• At least the Vikings are still in the running for the number 1 overall draft pick. 
• The Vikings led 23-7 in the fourth quarter.  WTF?
• Why doesn't Christian Ponder play like this every week? 
• Jerome Simpson made several very nice catches.  
• Where have you been hiding Rhett Ellison?  
• Yet another 100 yard rushing game for Adrian Peterson.
• Yet another rushing touchdown for Adrian Peterson.
• This may have been Xavier Rhodes best game as a Viking. 
• Matt Kalil's sophomore slump continues.  
• Why is there no double overtime in the NFL?  
• Is the Vikings cover-2 defense really suppose to be that soft?  
• Audie Cole was solid replacing Erin Henderson.  13 tackles, 2 TFL, 1 sack, 3 QB hits.
• Have I mentioned that Toby Gerhart could start on a lot of teams? 
• Blair Walsh continues to be money inside of 60 yards. 
• It's only a matter of time before Cordarrelle Patterson takes a kickoff return to the house.
• Christian Ponder is NOT a good two minute quarterback.
• The Packers are not that impressive without Aaron Rodgers.
• You have to like the way Eddie Lacy runs the ball. 
• Would you consider 19 degrees to be frozen tundra? 
• Matt Flynn > Scott Tolzien.  Neither anywhere close to Aaron Rodgers.
• Up next?  @ home to take on the Chicago Bears.

Dream Angels

I'm usually opposed to Christmas ads before Thanksgiving but VS gets a pass.

Arizona St 38, UCLA 33

The Sun Devils held off the Bruins 38-33 Saturday night in a thriller from Los Angeles.  This win moves the Sun Devils move to 9-2 on the season (and 7-1 in the Pac-12) and more importantly it clinches the Pac-12 South Division for the Sun Devils!  They'll now meet Stanford for the Pac-12 Championship on December 7.  If the Sun Devils can beat Arizona next week, they will host the Pac-12 Championship Game. That's a tough matchup for ASU, playing them at home would help a lot.

Observations:

• Taylor Kelly really showed up big time for this game. 
• Marion Grice continues to shine.  He's hoping he's healthy for next week.
• Admit it, you were getting worried in the second half.
• First half scoring:  ASU 35, UCLA 13
• Second half scoring:  ASU 3, UCLA 20
• ASU is now 15-0 under Todd Graham when leading at halftime.
• Jaelen Strong has really added another dimension to the ASU offense. 
• Arizona State is becoming a pretty good road team, that's 4 of their past 5.
• ASU got big games on defense from Carl Bradford, Davon Coleman, Chris Young & Will Sutton. 
• Zane Gonzales is quietly have a very strong season. 
• Gus Johnson sure does get excitable doesn't he? 
• Up next?  @ home against Arizona next Saturday to end the regular season.

Minnesota 7, Wisconsin 20

The Gophers fall to the Badgers 20-7 today in Minneapolis. This loss drops the Gophers to 8-3 on the season (and 4-3 in the B1G).  The Gophers needed to play a near perfect game today to beat Wisconsin, they didn't, they lost 3 fumbles, dropped way too many passes and were way too inconsistent on offense.  In the end, it's obvious that the better team won.  It's really hard not to see progress with the program though, despite their errors they kept it close, the defense played well and they battled to the end, I like what I'm seeing. 

Observations:

• Tracy Claeys was acting head coach once again. As they say, if it ain't broke. 
• Jerry Kill was in the coaching booth again, I'll assume he is next week too. 
• The Gopher passing game was non-existent today.  
• David Cobb cracked the 1000 yard mark!  First Gopher to do so since 2006. 
• A perfect game was needed to win today, they didn't have a perfect game.  
• The Gopher defense played well against a very good Wisconsin offense. 
• I'd like to see the Gophers use both QB's more, especially if one is struggling. 
• Philip Nelson finished 7 of 23 for 83 yards, 0 TD's and a QBR of 6.2. 
• Roland Johnson is very underrated, he will be missed next year.  
• The Gophers really seemed to miss Derrick Engel today. 
• Time of Possession:  Wisconsin 35:11, Minnesota 24:49. 
• Wisconsin was held to their lowest point and yard totals of their season today.
• Chris Borland is a heckuva football player, thankfully he is a senior.  
• Let's give the Badgers defense some credit for the Gophers offensive struggles.  
• That Wisconsin fake punt attempt was laughably inept. 
• It looked cold in Minneapolis today.  Still had largest TCF Bank Stadium crowd ever!
• I fear that the Badgers came out on top of this Bielma/Andersen coaching change. 
• The Paul Bunyan Axe stays in Madison for the 10th straight year. 
• What a huge recruiting weekend for the Gophers!
• Up next?  @ Michigan State next week to close the regular season.

We've Gone Nuclear!

Why you ask did Democrats go nuclear and reform the filibuster rules?  Pretty simple.

POTpourri

• Counsel of Economic Advisers reports slowest healthcare spending in decades.
• Democrats go nuclear!  Republicans were warned.  Long overdue. 
• John Oliver gets weekly comedy talk show on HBO.  
• April Rose is one of the very few good things about "Grown Ups 2".  
• Why do Republicans have a playbook to sabotage the Affordable Care Act. 
• Wil Myers & Jose Fernandez win MLB Rookie of the Year Awards. 
• David Blaine continues to freak me the fuck out. 
• Have you noticed the shenanigans by health insurers over the past few years?
• Would a "Basic Income" policy make sense the U.S.?  It's not as crazy as it sounds.
• The UFC seems to be developing a credibility problem.  
• More states should be following lead of states like California and Minnesota.  
• Just 90 companies are responsible for two thirds of global warming emissions. 
• Who is Laura Cremaschi and how do I find more pictures of her? 
• How do you know when it's time to increase the minimum wage?  
• Does the trend towards High Deductible Health Insurance plans scare anyone else? 
• It's nice to see all of the great publicity that Jerry Kill has been receiving lately.
• Once again a Republican politician's actions say "Do as I say, not as I do!". 
• Why is Scott Walker suddenly concerned about the poor?  Don't be fooled.
• America produced more oil than they imported for the first time since 1995.
• Is capitalism really the best we can do? 

Jon Stewart on ACA & Katrina

It really is an absurd comparison. Stop it already!

The Daily Show

Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa

"Jackass Present: Bad Grandpa" - starring Johnny Knoxville & Jackson Nicoll.

This movie was hilarious, I loved it.  Knoxville plays the recently widowed Grandpa Irving Zisman who is tasked with driving his grandson Billy across country to his real father after Billy's mother is sent to prison. While irritated with Billy at first, Grandpa and Bill bond along their journey.   

I'd describe it as kind of a combination of the "Jackass" movies and "Borat".  There were all sort of crazy stunts/gags played on real unsuspecting people with hidden cameras.  Watching the reactions of the people in the movie was priceless.

Johnny Knoxville was outstanding as the heavily made up Grandpa and Jackson Nicoll was tremendous as the 8 year old Billy.

The scene at the child beauty pageant was one of the funnies that I've seen in quite awhile. 

Hopefully, the Jackass crew continues to make this type of movie as I think that they may have found their niche.

I'll give this movie 4 out of 5 stars (*****).

Worst Socialist Ever

Were you paying attention? The Dow Jones & S&P 500 hit all time highs yesterday.

November Flavor of the Month . . . .

. . . . is Karlie Kloss!  She just keeps getting hotter and hotter!  Here's her twitter & Facebook.  

Vikings 20, Seahawks 41

The Vikings lose another one, this time 41-20 to the Seahawks in Seattle.  The Vikings fall to 2-8 on the season.  I suspect that we are now one week closer to the end of the Leslie Frazier era with the Vikings, he and his coaching staff just seemed so over matched once again. They just need to blow things up at Winter Park!  At least the race for the number one overall pick in next years NFL Draft remains alive. At this point, all I can say is "Make it end! Please!".  

Observations:

• Why is it apparent to everybody but Leslie Frazier that Christian Ponder is not an NFL QB?
• Since they are paying him $3 millions, isn't it time to see more Josh Freeman?
• No Greg Jennings today.  They need him on the field if they want to have a chance.
• Did Jerome Simpson's benching really last just one play?  
• There are no two ways around it, the Vikings defense is just plain bad. 
• Just 33 yards in total offense and no points for the Vikings in the 3rd quarter. Ouch. 
• More Cordarrelle Patterson please!  He's got that "IT" factor to him. 
• At least the Vikings have Blair Walsh going for them.  
• 2 touchdowns for Jarius Wright, that was nice to see. 
• Where for art thou Jared Allen?  He knows he's a free agent soon doesn't he?
• I have no doubt that Toby Gerhart could start for many teams in the NFL.  
• You are not going to win many games when you turn over the ball 4 times. 
• I'd like to see what Michael Mauti could do given some defensive snaps.
• Marshawn Lynch or Adrian Peterson?  Tough call, I'd love to see Peterson in a good offense.
• I have grown to really detest Percy Harvin. 
• Up next?  @ Green Bay to take on the Packers.

Cardinals 27, Jaguars 14

The Cardinals topped the Jaguars 27-14 in Jacksonville today.  With this win the Cardinals improve to 6-4 on the season, they are very much in the playoff hunt.  I know Jacksonville isn't a very good team, but I still like a lot of what I saw today.  Carson Palmer seems to be figuring out the offense, the secondary receivers are stepping up, the defense continues to shine, their big name players are playing like big name players, they are looking like a solid football team.  Nice game Cardinals.

Observations:  

• 419 yards passing today for Carson Palmer, he seems to be figuring out the offense.
• Carson Palmer's streak of games throwing an interception ends at 9 games.
• The Cardinals defense seemed to want to phone this one in at the start.
• It was nice to see another Larry Fitzgerald touchdown!
• The Jaguars defense is just NOT very good. 
• Rashard Mendenhall is not the RB that he used to be.  More Andre Ellington please!
• Gutsy 4th down call by the Jags to start the game.  Nothing to lose.  
• Great game for Cardinals WR Michael Floyd.  6 catches for 193 yards & 1 TD.
• Rushing Yards:  Cardinals 14, Jaguars 32.  That's pathetic all the way around.   
• Football players shouldn't sport dreadlocks.  It would seem like common sense wouldn't it?
• Yet another sack by John Abraham, that 7 sacks now in the past 4 games. 
• TE Jake Ballard has been a solid mid season pickup for the Cardinals. 
• Time of Possession:  Cardinals 35:53, Jaguars 24:07.  
• Cardinals Kicker Jay Feeley continues to impress.  
• This wasn't the best officiated game I have ever seen. 
• Stupid taunting penalty by Yeremiah Bell early on.  You can't do that!
• How is it possible that the Jags scored their first home TD of the season today?
• Give the Jags credit, they are still playing hard for Gus Bradley.
• Lots of empty seats in Jacksonville.  Do they really need a $63 million scoreboard?
• Up next?  @ home vs the Indianapolis Colts. 

Arizona St 30, Oregon St 17

The Sun Devils stuffed the Beavers 30-17 last night at Sun Devil Stadium.  The Sun Devils move to 8-2 on the season (and 6-1 in the Pac-12).  If Arizona State can beat UCLA next week in Los Angeles, they will win the Pac-12 South crown!  UCLA is good and the game is on the road, ASU may have their work cut out for them but they certainly have a chance, especially the way they have been playing.  Go Devils!

Observations:

• That's five straight wins for the Sun Devils.  
• 2 more TD's for Marion Grice, that gives him 20 TD's on the season. 
• Arizona State is typically not good when Taylor Kelly throws 2+ interceptions.
• WR Jaelen Strong appears to be back at full strength!  
• The Sun Devils don't usually beat themselves. 
• Another 118 yards rushing for Marion Grice.  He's at 901 rushing yards for the season.
• Another turnover created by ASU, that makes 24 straight games. 
• Arizona State is good on special teams!
• What's going on with you Carl Bradford?  ASU needs you on the field.
• Robert Nelson is really stepping up his game down the stretch. 
• The Arizona State defense is incredibly underrated. 
• Was that Curly Culp being honored at halftime?  Congrats!
• Arizona State cracks the Top 20 in the latest AP poll. That seems a bit low to me.
• I hate you Pac-12 Network!  Get a deal done already!
• Up next?  @ UCLA next Saturday.

Elizabeth Warren on Judicial Filibusters

I like her more and more every time I hear her.

POTpourri

• Strongest storm in recorded history devastates the Philippines.  
• Are you aware of how Republicans Rig the Game? 
• Miguel Cabrera & Andrew McCutchon win 2013 MLB MVP Awards.
• 2013 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show pictures here & here & here!
• The Trans-Pacific Partnership sounds like a bad agreement to me. 
• 2013 CMA winners list can be found here.  
• Clayton Kershaw & Max Scherzer win 2013 MLB Cy Young Awards. 
• What happened to the Republicans calls for moderation? 
• This is why the GOP wants cuts to the EPA.  
• Senate Democrats unveil Pro-Choice bill to prevent states from chipping away abortion rights.
• Sarah Palin should really consider a teleprompter.  
• Is UCLA freshman Myles Jack the best college football player in America?  
• Why do Republicans want to take away your paid sick time?   
• Lisa Morales just may be the hottest woman on earth!
• Clint Hurdle & Terry Francona win 2013 MLB Manager of the Year Awards. 
• Justin Bieber apparently really enjoys Central/South American prostitutes.
• Ryan Riess wins the 2013 World Series of Poker Main Event. 
• RIP Todd Christensen & Robert Vito.
• Congressional approval sinks to record low of 9%.  
• Do you know what the job market would look like today in not for austerity measures?

AZ Tidbits

• Arizona State Athletic Director Steve Patterson bolts ASU for Texas.  
• Should the Arizona Cardinals pursue a trade for Ben Roethlisberger?  
• Diamondback Geraldo Parra named 2013 NL Defensive Player of the Year. 
• 2013 Arizona election results can be found here.  
• Phoenix named one of the Top Cities for People Under 35.
• Opponents score a big victory over Arizona voter rights restrictions. 
• Diamondbacks Paul Goldschmidt & Geraldo Parra win Gold Glove Awards. 
• Arizona State University is not a bad place to spend Halloween. 
• Kevin Harvick wins the AdvoCare 500 at Phoenix International Raceway. 
• Shouldn't University of Arizona RB Ka'Deem Carey being getting more Heisman hype?
• Phoenix ranked as 28th Best Sports Town in America for Sports Fans. 
• Check out Mocking the Draft's look at Arizona State's football draft prospects here.  
• Apple is coming to Mesa, Arizona.  This should be a boon to Scott Smith.
• Tempe named one of America's Most Creative Cities. 
• Arizona high school football player dies from brain injuries suffered in a game. 
• You can find a list of Arizona high school athletes who signed college LOI's here. 
• Does Sheriff Joe Arpaio really need drones?  Let's slow down here!
• Arizona in Top 5 for number of people in poverty.
• It's nice to see Arizona State RB Marion Grice starting to get some national publicity.
• Darnell Dockett is not a fan of Richie Incognito. 
• Diamondbacks Paul Goldschmidt wins a Silver Slugger Award.

You Can Keep Your Plan

I'm honestly not too upset by those statements from President Obama.  Why on earth would we want people to keep their substandard health insurance plans?  Those plan aren't doing anybody any good.

Captain Phillips

"Captain Phillips" starring Tom Hanks & Barkhad Abdi.  This movie tells the true story of Captain Richard Phillips and the hi-jacking of his cargo ship by Somali pirates off the Somali coast.  This is a great movie, in fact, I think it was probably the best movie that I've seen this year.  I really can't say enough good things about it, it was suspenseful, fast moving, terrifying, you name it.  Director Paul Greengrass does a great job of building the suspense up to the movie's climactic conclusion, Tom Hanks is wonderful as Captain Phillips and Barkhad Abdi is terrific in his first staring role.  It also left me feeling glad to know that we have a military force like the Navy Seal Teams defending us, those guys are remarkable.  Go see it!

I will give this movie 5 out of 5 stars (*****).

The Close-Up

Just because.

Cardinals 27, Texans 24

The Cardinals knocked off the Texans 27-24 today at University of Phoenix Stadium.  The Cardinals improve to 5-4 on the season.  Minus a few costly mistakes, it was a pretty nice all around win for the Cardinals.  Given the mediocrity of the NFC this year, and a manageable remaining schedule, the Cards are still well within striking distance of a playoff spot.  For the most part, I really like what I have been seeing out of them.  Don't get me wrong though, they've still got some flaws that will require an off season or two to correct but I think they are on the right path. 

Observations:

• 2 more sacks for John Abraham, he's now number 12 all time in sacks.  
• It's about time that TE Rob Housler found the end zone.   
• Here's my vote for Justin Bethel as the NFL's best special teams player. 
• The Cardinals defense really picked things up in the second half.
• Another game, another interception from Carson Palmer.  
• I cannot see Rashad Mendenhall returning to the Cardinals next year.  
• We need more Andre Ellington please! Stepfan Taylor too for that matter.
• OT Eric Winston is starting to look like a free agent bust. 
• This just in, Dave Zastudel is a tremendous punter.
• More Wildcat formation from the Cardinals, I'm not sure if that's a good thing or not. 
• J.J. Watt is good at football.  That is all.  
• No Arian Foster, Matt Schaub or Gary Kubiak today for the Texans. 
• Case Keenum looks like he has the potential to be a decent QB.  
• Could someone explain to me why the University of Phoenix Stadium roof was closed? 
• Up next? @ Jacksonville to take on the Jaguars. 

Debt Elephant in the Room

Take all that Republican concern about the debt with a grain of salt please.

Arizona State 20, Utah 19

The Sun Devils eked out a squeaker yesterday, 20-19 over Utah in Salt Lake City.  It took 2 late touchdowns to do it but a road win is a road win, I'll take it.  This win moves the Sun Devils to 7-2 on the season (and more importantly, 5-1 in the Pac12).  At this point, the Sun Devils control their own destiny in the Pac-12 South, if they win out they are in the Pac12 Championship Game.  It won't be an easy road though, they've still got Oregon St, UCLA and Arizona to go. 

Observations:

• Will Sutton really stepped up big when they needed him to. 
• It wasn't ASU QB Taylor Kelly's best game but he also stepped up big time when needed. 
• 2 games in a row without a touchdown from Marion Grice?  How does that happen? 
• Marion Grice did rush for 136 yards on 20 carries, that's 6.8 yards per carry. 
• ASU LB Chris Young had another strong game.   
• The Devils have created a turnover in 24 straight games now!
• Rick Smith has really been coming on from his early season struggles. 
• So much for that streak of 49 games while leading at halftime for the Utes.  
• ASU has now scored on 45 straight red zone drives!  Wow!
• Where the heck did Gannon Conway come from?  Keep it up!
• The Arizona State defense seems to be getting better and better as the season progresses.
• The Sun Devils need to get Jaelen Strong back on track. 
• It's long past due that the Pac-12 Network & Directv settle their differences. 
• Up next?  Oregon State next Saturday @ Sun Devil Stadium.

Minnesota 24, Penn State 10

The Gophers top the Nittany Lions 24-10 today in Minneapolis.  The Gophers improve to 8-2 on the season, yes that's right, 8-2!  Who saw that coming?  The wheels looked like they were falling off after that Michigan loss earlier in the season, but they have been lights out ever since.  You really have to give a ton of credit to Jerry Kill and his coaching staff, they have done a tremendous job this season.  The players have really rallied to Kill's aide too, they obviously have a great deal of affection for their coach.  Their 2 toughest games of the season (Wisconsin in 2 weeks, then @ Michigan State) are still yet to come but with their confidence growing exponentially, don't count these guys out.

Observations:

• Tracy Claeys improves to 4-1 as interim head coach.  
• Jerry Kill was in coaching booth once again.  
• That 96 yard TD drive in the first quarter was damn impressive!   
• Philip Nelson is looking better and better at QB for the Gophers. 
• The Gopher OL didn't miss a beat with 2 new starters. 
• David Cobb is closing in on a 1000 yard rushing season.  4 straight 100 yards games!
• Time of Possession:  Minnesota 35:28, Penn State 24:32.
• FB Mike Henry may be the most under appreciated player on the Gophers squad. 
• Pete Mortell has had a heckuva year punting the ball. 
• Damien Wilson has been solid at MLB for the Gophers this year. 
• It was an unusually quiet game for Ra'Shede Hageman. 
• The Gophers have been damn efficient on fourth down this year. 
• Freshmen WR's Donovahn Jones & Drew Wolitarsky are really stepping up their games.
• Is there a better young TE in the B1G than Maxx Williams? 
• I liked the Gophers Support the Troops helmets!  
• Penn St RB Zach Zwinak is a beast of a RB.  
• The Gophers did a nice job of containing Penn State WR Allen Robinson. 
• Did the Gophers break the Governor's Victory Bell?
• How can these locker room videos not get you pumped up for Gopher football?  
• Up next?  Wisconsin @ home on November 23.  Tough matchup. 

Warthog vs Wild Dogs vs Crocodile

I love these nature videos.

Vikings 34, Redskins 27

The Vikings win!  34-27 over the Redskins @ Mall of America Field.  The Vikings improve to 2-7 on the season to avoid their worst start to a season in franchise history.  It was really the tale of 2 halves, the Redskins clearly won the first half but the Vikings were clearly the better team in the second half.  I'm not sure what happened at half time but whatever it was, it worked.  It was a nice win for the Vikings, it's hard to get too worked up about it though as they are still just 2-7. 

Observations:

• I have to admit it, Christian Ponder looked the part of an NFL QB tonight. 
• With Ponder's injury, who starts at QB next week now? 
• Second Half scoring:  Vikings 20, Redskins 3
• Where has this John Carlson been hiding?  
• Kevin Williams appears to want a new contract. 2.5 sacks on the night.
• Nice game for Adrian Peterson.  75 yards rushing, 2 TD's.  
• The Vikings time management to close the game left me scratching my head. 
• Please work Cordarrelle Patterson more into the offensive game plan. 
• Injuries are really decimating the Vikings lineup.   
• Time of Possession:  Redskins 36:01, Vikings 23:59.
• The Redskins defense is somehow worse than the Vikings defense. 
• Andrew Sendajo really likes laying the wood. 
• The Vikings tackling was pretty atrocious tonight. 
• How would RGIII look in a Vikings uniform?  It almost happened. 
• Did this win cost the Vikes Teddy Bridgewater?
• I'd be fine with the Washington Bravehearts.  I think it's time.  
• Yes, that was Chris Carter blowing the Gjallarhorn & getting his Hall of Fame ring.
• Up next?  @ Chicago to take on the Bears next Sunday. 

New Eminem - Berzerk

I'm not a huge rap fan but I've always appreciated Eminem.  MMPL2 was released this week and it sounds like a winner to me.  Check out Berzerk, it's got a little Beastie Boys to it, I like it.

Most Hated People in Sports

Lots to choose from, he's my current Top 10 Most Hated People in Sports:

1. Aaron Hernandez - killing someone leaps him to the top of the list.
2. Richie Incognito - why is an adult still bullying people?  Grow up already!
3. Alex Rodriguez - liar, snitch, cheater, egomaniac, not a great combo.  
4. Ryan Braun - HGH is bad enough but his brazen lies about it were very distasteful. 
5. Riley Cooper - don't use the N word people!
6. Kurt Busch - arrogant punk of a NASCAR racer.  
7. Tiger Woods - I'm still not past his past marital indiscretions. 
8. Lane Kiffin - karma's a bitch isn't it Lane?  
9. Lamar Odom - Kardashian spouse, drug addict, underachiever, need I say more? 
10. Michael Vick - it's hard to get past the dog fighting scandal. 

GOP Priorities

Why does the GOP hate poor people so much?

POTpourri

• Boston Red Sox win 2013 World Series. David Ortiz named World Series MVP.
• Will the legalization of medicinal marijuana be fast tracked in Washington? 
• This just in, "government by crisis" is an economy killer.  
• The Republican civil war continues.  It's long overdue. 
• Xenia Deli is looking seriously hot these days.
• Please check Media Matters for America before believing all the Right Wing Media hacks.
• When are Wall Street titans going to start facing jail time?  
• Are you aware that state Republicans are curbing wage and labor standards?  
• Just when you thought that Fox News couldn't sink any lower, this is reported!
• GOP Rep Pete Session to President Obama "I can't even stand to look at you." 
• Arctic temperatures reach highest levels in 44,000 years.  
• Did Ohio Governor John Kasich have an epiphany?  
• Aren't the Tea Party members the real RHINO's?  
• Where are you hiding Hillary Fisher!!! 
• Do you know what Republicans wont tell you about Obamacare?  
• Rand Paul may want to find a new speech writer before 2016. 
• Pamela Anderson with short hair?  Say it isn't so.  
• Should it really surprise anyone that the right wing likes junk health insurance plans? 
• Isn't blocking judicial nominations to keep their majority the same as packing the court? 
• Is Chris Christies's record in New Jersey really worth bragging about?  
• Remind me again, why weren't the GOP concerned with embassy attacks under GWB?

Vikings 23, Cowboys 27

The Vikings lose another one, this time 27-23 to the Cowboys in Dallas.  The Vikings fall to 1-7 on the season, the race for the number one pick in the 2014 NFL Draft continues.  The Vikings actually kept this game much closer than I had anticipated, still they came up short when it mattered most once again.  It's really aggravating watching this team play, there's way too much talent on this roster for them to be 1-7 on the season.  I'm not a fan of their play calling (offensively or defensively), their QB play continues to hamstring them and injuries are really starting to pile up, it's not a pretty combination.  I'm still advocating that they blow things up immediately after the season ends. 

Observations:

• I've seen enough of Christian Ponder, he's not the answer, please stop playing him.  
• With Ponder's inability to stretch the field, he needs Kyle Rudolph on the field. 
• Ponder does seem to play better in the no huddle offense (as long as it's not the last 2 minutes).
• I like the way Greg Jennings competes, the Vikings need more of that. 
• The Vikings offensive line once again underwhelmed.   
• Blair Walsh missed an extra-point?  Really?   
• Adrian Peterson had a nice game.  140 yards on 25 carries, plus 1 TD.
• Nice use of that prevent defense Vikings.  Not.
• OMG, did a Viking cornerback really intercept a pass?  
• Did the Cowboys really score 2 touchdowns in a 10 second span?
• Why didn't the Vikings try a field goal late in the fourth quarter?  That was stupid!
• Harrison Smith was really missed in the Vikings secondary.  
• How does J'Marcus Webb still have a job in the NFL again?  
• The Cowboys killed the Vikings across the middle of the field today. 
• Is it too soon to speculate on the Vikings next head coach yet? 
• AT&T Stadium in Dallas looks pretty impressive. I'd love to catch a game there sometime. 
• Up next?  Thursday night @ home against the Redskins. 

Jon Stewart Message to Fox News

Don't fuck with Jon Stewart.

The Daily Show  

Minnesota 42, Indiana 39

The Gophers dropped the Hoosiers 42-39 in Bloomington, IN today!  You have to love those B1G road wins!  The Gophers improve to 7-2 on the season (and 3-2 in the B1G).  This one was a nail-biter, the Gophers led 35-13 with less than six minutes to go in the third quarter before giving up 4 straight touchdowns and the lead down the stretch.  Thankfully, Philip Nelson hit Maxx Williams for a late touchdown and the Hoosiers choked in the last minute.  This Gopher team is getting my pumped up, it'll be interesting to see how they close down the stretch (against Penn St, Wisconsin & Michigan State). 

Observations:

• Tracy Claeys was acting head coach once again.  Jerry Kill was in the coaching box.  
• Phil Nelson got the start at QB for the Gophers today.  
• It's about time that the Gophers scored on their opening drive. 
• David Cobb is easily the most improved Gopher this year.  188 yards rushing, 1 TD. 
• Philip Nelson had his best game as a Gopher today.  16-23, 298 yards, 4 TD's.  
• Aaron Hill just seems to always be in the right place.  
• When is the last time the Gophers has a 570+ yard game?  
• I've been very impressed with DB Damarius Travis.  
• Have I mentioned that I'm a big fan of Maxx Williams? 
• I'm still scratching my head on that Gopher fake punt call.  
• Tommy Olson stepped up big time replacing the injured Jon Christenson.  
• Derrick Engel is quietly having a nice season.  4 catches, 97 yards, 2 TD's. 
• I like the way that the Gophers are working Donovahn Jones into their offense.
• Turnovers will kill you.  Hold onto the damn ball!  
• Someone please explain that last Indiana play call to me please?  
• Up next?  Penn State @ TCF Bank Stadium.  Winnable game.