God Bless the Sabres Store

by Ryan

Today I ventured down to HSBC Arena to watch the Sabres first on ice practice. Before I get to that, I thought I'd take a stroll into the Sabres Store to see what was on clearance. When I got there, however, what was brand new was much more interesting.

Ignore the pajama pants on him, it's the jersey that matters. Like the display says, that's the brand new RBK Edge Sabres jersey. The official release wasn't supposed to be for another day, but after the Buffalo News leak, why not put them on sale today?

For anyone who is curious, the uniform is pretty much the same as last years. There was some question about the numbers on the right shoulder, but they are coming back this year as well.(see below)

A bit close to the NHL Logo in front, but it could just be a bad angle. Besides, they still have time to get it right.

Looking around a bit, I noticed this rack. As it turns out, all of those are the other EDGE designs around the league, including some jerseys that haven't been officially released yet. You can see both the home and away San Jose jerseys next to the Sabres ones on the far right.

The Edmonton jersey, seen above. Didn't stray too far from the point, and managed to keep the Canadian and Alberta flags off. These pictures were taken by a camera phone, so the color quality is a bit off.

Yeah, looks like that is the Stars' away jersey after all. They really, really want everyone to know where their home barn is. You would think they've done enough distancing from their North Stars days...

Some pictures of the actual practice to come, as well as some cool pictures of a jumbotron-less HSBC Arena.

A 39-year-old Defenseman with heart problems is always a smart signing

By Jon

The Bills aren't the only WNY team dealing with injuries. Training camp officially opens tomorrow, and Teppo Numminen is already reeling.

That's right folks, Teppo's pesky little ticker just won't work quite right. Numminen has a history of heart problems, requiring surgery once as a Sabre and once as a Dallas Star. It's not known when Teppo will go back under the knife, but Darcy made it quite clear that it is a different type of surgery from his previous two.

I may be the only Teppo supporter left in all of Buffalo, and I was convinced that he could muster out at least one more productive year at the blue line. You have to wonder if he might just decide to hang up the skates rather than but his health at risk, especially with the Sabres not being the highly-regarded contenders they were a year ago.

Here's to a speedy recovery Teppo, I would love to see you have one more chance at that elusive chalice.

Burger King Is Speaking. Listen Up, Tubby.

by Ryan


I really wanted to talk about some actual football news today, and even mention some stats. Then I saw the picture below.

That fine screenshot was from the Burger King website. Apparently BK is giving away mini football jerseys with their kids meals. The first thing I though of was how embarrassing it will be to order a kids meal to get one of those bad boys. The second thing I thought of is how delicious that double cheeseburger will be as I make fingers stiff arm and hurtle as a mini Lee Evans. Sweet victory will be mine.

I love how BK put a giant disclaimer at the top right of the page. "HEY KIDS! THIS IS ADVERTISING!" Like they don't recognize the brainwashing that comes with commercialized toy deals. Psh.

I wish they would put that blunt honesty to use more often. "HEY KIDS! THIS IS FATTENING!" would work just fine, I think.

Burger King has always embraced its image as the place for fat people who are unashamed of their gluttony, something I give them great credit for. You wouldn't see any other fast food place patting themselves on the back for the Tripple Whopper or Quad Stacker. Only BK has the guts to pair giant portions of food and midgets together to celebrate what makes America great.

It only makes sense that Burger King is the company to scream it's Ludovico Treatment right at the faces of our youth. Not to mention the mental trauma all those impressionable girls will go through when they learn they can't fit into those mini jerseys...

The Latest on Kevin Everett

By Chris

Dr. Andrew Cappuccino, the surgeon who performed on Bills tight end Kevin Everett and Dr. Kevin Gibbons, the consulting neurosurgeon met with the media at Ralph Wilson Stadium this afternoon to discuss the status of the injured player.

From WGR550:

After coming out of surgery, Everett could barely push his knees together. However, the doctors voluntarily put him in a drug protected state Monday due to a high temperature, and cooled him down with extra equipment. Tuesday, the doctors briefly brought him back to consciousness to perform some brief tests and found marked improvement. Wednesday morning, Everett was able to bring his knees up slightly, wiggle his toes, and slightly use his quadriceps. He flexed his triceps in his arms, but was not able to neither flex his biceps consistently nor use his hands at all.

Everett has been removed from the ventilator and is breathing on his own, which is a major step according to his doctors. Everett is attached to a feeding tube but is awake and starting to ask questions. He understands what is happening, and the road ahead to recovery.

And from BuffaloBills.com:

"He had clear improvement in the motor function of his legs," said Dr. Gibbons the director of the neurological ICU at Millard Fillmore Gates hospital. "He was able to move his legs together and apart, wiggles his toes and had slight movement from his ankle. He was able to kick out his lower leg against gravity with his knee raised. He was able to slightly extend his elbow with his triceps muscle."

With those signs of muscle movement the doctors decided to being warming Everett's body to do further testing. It had been cooled during and following surgery to reduce swelling.

"The decision was made to begin warming him," said Gibbons. "We did that over the next 12 hours. During the course of this time with the sedation lifted we were able to repetitively examine Kevin with continued anti-gravity power and continued movement in one muscle in his arms. This morning he continues to demonstrate improvement in his legs to the point where he can bend his hip and has the ability to straighten out his knee. He demonstrates continued power in his ankles. He has somewhat improved triceps function in that he can just overcome gravity with his left triceps. His biceps function seem to fluctuate. He has no movement in his hands."

Everett's condition was grouped into the second worst class of spinal cord injuries when he was initially assessed. Following the latest developments he's almost met all the requirements to be upgraded to the next best class.

When asked if he will walk again Dr. Gibbons made it clear that it's against the odds, but wouldn't rule it out.

"I wouldn't bet against it," said Gibbons.

The Roost will continue to provide more updates on Everett's condition as they become available. And for more coverage, be sure to check Bfloblog.com as well.

The Only Difference is that Nothing Has Changed

by Ryan


Well I doubt anyone saw this coming.

For the second straight year the Buffalo Sabres will open the season sporting new uniforms. Thankfully a complete overhaul isn't in order this time, as the team is simply making the switch to the RBK Edge design.

The official release date was supposed to be this Saturday, which coincides with the start of single game ticket sales. However, Brian Campbell was nice enough to stand awkwardly in front of a wall long enough for that picture to be taken.

Now before you get all up in arms about that jersey you bought last season, take another look at the thing. It is almost exactly the same, save for the NHL patch on the chest, and the overall design is a big more snug than before. The materials are also more water resistant, but that will do nothing to prevent you from getting nacho cheese all over it.

To be honest the change is more about player comfort than anything. Wind tunnel tests, moisture resistance, and ventilation are the most used buzzwords, and RBK has put a lot of effort into ensuring players will be happy wearing them.

And while some teams are using this as an opportunity to make some cash with logo changes and uniform overhauls, the Sabres have spared us the grief this year. Hey, wasn't that what last year was about?

There will be no third jerseys for any team this year, which means the greatest Sabres logo of all time will be shelved for the time being. However, judging by its popularity last year, I'd look for it to make another comeback within the next few seasons.

Also, some rumors have been swirling that if/when the Sabres play in the Ice Bowl on January 1st they will break out the throwbacks as an exception to that rule. Now if only they'd get around to announcing that...

A Necessary Replay

by Ryan


Depending on what "school" you belong to, this is the best or worst thing to happen to HSBC Arena in a long time.

For those of you not aware of what all the cool kids have been buying recently, come October 5th you will be staring at something similar to this. Hopefully they won't have to clean it that often once it's up there.

While the old school fans among us (myself included) may see this is a step backwards, you really cannot argue against the beauty that is the HD revolution. Sure, those noise meters are pointless, and no one should have to be told when to make noise, but have you seen a replay at the Ralph recently? Seeing JP's preseason bomb to Evans again on the big board got almost as big a roar as the actual play.

Heck, take a look at this picture from the tunnel end zone. That's from a cell phone on the other side of the stadium. Imagine if there was actually something of worth on that screen? Crisp is an understatment.

Still, an even bigger jumbotron hanging from the rafters of HSBC may make us even more mush-brained as fans. Even with the sweet, sweet HD screen at Ralph Wilson Stadium, there are no commands to cheer. For the most part, football stadiums leave it up to fans to sense when it is important to make noise.

The same cannot be said for arena sports, which seem to assume it's patrons have no sense of "the moment." (Some exceptions are the Bell Centre in Montreal(Habs) and Oracle Arena in Oakland(Warriors), who are blessed with very devout and smart fans)

My first game in the Sabres new digs happened to be during that awkward phase it experienced during it's inaugural season. The jumbotron consisted of one usable video screen propped at the top of the 100 level; the only thing hanging above the ice were suddenly useless speakers.

It was an interesting time to say the least. While the building certainly looked strange and somewhat lacking, there was something very wholesome and vintage about the experience. No trace of computer generated confetti to celebrate a score, just a spotlight and horn. Gone were the images of uncomfortable people waiving or pointing at themselves on screen, and no sign of an in game host anywhere. Even though you knew something else was supposed to be there, it felt just right.

On Friday the Sabres will hold their first practice of training camp. Once again there will be an empty space above the ice, and the Arena will no doubt flash back to thoughts of middle school dances and clothes that never quite seem to fit right.

Soon enough it will look normal again. Big, flashy boards with picturesque replays and block letters screaming for noise. Speakers blaring AC/DC with perfect pitch and tone. Call it a summer makeover, necessary to stay in with the cool arenas around the league.

Still, those who visit HSBC on Friday will get a chance to see an alternate take on the world of NHL hockey. No replays, no video monsters, and maybe even no advertisements on the boards. It will be a rare chance to see the very origins of hockey in the modern era. No commercials, no contract talks; just a group of men skating around the barn.

Hockey the way it was meant to be.

Doing whatever it takes....

By Jon

What's worse, using illegal performance-enhancing drugs, or taking illegal videos of the opposing team to gain an edge? Apparently, the New England Patriots don't give a crap about either.

The chic Super Bowl pick from the AFC has now been involved in two instances of blatant cheating (if the most recent reports pan out) in the past few weeks. Nothing like the franchise that has become the face of the NFL over the past 5-10 years finding themselves marred in controversy.

The Harrison story is weeks old, so I'll let that be. But the new allegations bring up so many other questions. How long have the Pats been taping the other bench? Have they been caught before? How many other teams practice this? How much information can be taken from tapes of opposing coaches?

The story that intrigues me most is how they were caught. This will probably be further developed over the next few days, but I am praying that Mangini blew them in. As we all know, the Mangenius, or "Tits McGee," as Ryan prefers, was part of Belichick's staff in New England, and have been involved in a petty high school-esque fight ever since. You have to assume that they were taping coaches when Mangini was there, so did he alert the NFL brass? If he did, it would be a collective middle finger to the entire Pats organization, or so we can only hope.

The NFL is the only major sports league in the U.S. that can handle such constant controversy. HGH, taping coaches, raging criminals...yet they remain on top. This speaks volumes for the work of the Tagliabue regime and the popularity that they helped create. Granted, football was immensely popular before, but the NFL really distanced itself from the competition of other sports under his watch, and continues to reap the benefits with each negative story that comes out.

Your move, Goodell....

And finally some good news

By Chris

If you were looking for some optimistic news in the Kevin Everett saga, then today is the day you've been waiting for.

Kevin Everett might walk again after all.

The doctor who performed the spinal surgery on Everett told Buffalo TV station WIVB on Tuesday that Everett has voluntary movement of his arms and legs and as a result he is optimistic that Everett will walk again.

The road to recovery begins.

More Bad News

By Chris

While nothing is certain, things don't look good for Bills tight end Kevin Everett who was seriously injured in yesterday's game against Denver. Everett was sedated earlier today and is still undergoing evaluations in intensive care. And now that they're calling it a "'catastrophic' and life-threatening" injury, we're beginning to hear the things none of us want to hear:

"A best-case scenario is full recovery, but not likely," Dr. Andrew Cappuccino said, one day after performing a four-hour operation on the player. "I believe there will be some permanent neurological paralysis. ... A full neurological recovery was bleak, dismal."

And from WGR550:

During the surgical procedure on Sunday night, doctors realigned and decompressed Everett's spine, and fused the third and fourth cervical vertebrae with screws.

Monday morning, doctors performed a neurological exam and determined that he could breath on his own, and had similiar sensations as the night before, but stressed they still do not have a prognosis. Doctors are concerned about blood clotting and pneumonia to start, and will keep him in a protected state with drugs for the next two to three days. Everett is also on a respirator.

Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Everett family.

UPDATE: 9/11

Dear Tiki Barber,

by Ryan

Hey, buddy! Long time no see. Actually, I see you everywhere these days, and it makes me want to blind myself with an awl.

Here's the deal, Tiki: you were slightly amusing on Fox News. Yeah, I think my Mom tuned in a few times, whatever.

Then you got a bit shady and announced you were retiring in the middle of a playoff race. While the Niedermayer method is not recommended, you didn't play it much better.

And now that you are actually retired you just can't seem to keep your mouth shut about anything. This new found release from allegiances has you telling anyone that will listen what you think about the Giants and their general suckitute.

Guess what Tiki? If you are going to collectively throw the organization, players, and staff under the bus, we'd appreciate it if you stopped using the possessive when you talk about them. You were just so giddy when you cut ties with the G-men, why linger around with all this "we" and "us" and "our" garbage.

Sure, it doesn't help when Madden refers to the Giants as "yours," but we all know he's losing it. The keys have been taken away from him in his video game, and he did the freaking Heisman Pose a few weeks back and no one batted an eye. Don't even get me started on his "colorful" artwork.

No one wants to hear you talk like this, friend. Even Steve Tasker thinks you are being a homer. So cut the crap and do what you do best: say nothing meaningful in a suit. You are not special. You just happen to have a nice wardrobe and adorable smile. Heck, Keyshawn Johnson looked like Neapolitan ice cream this morning and still got a paycheck for it.

So shut up, publish your stupid book no one will read, and get out of my face. Unless you are suiting up next week behind that fat kid who backs up Eli, move on. You are retired. Get over yourself.

Oh, and tell Keith Olbermann that he sucks at life, and if he continues to make bland jokes all season I'm flying to New York City to beat him with his red phone. He's killing me, and making Collinsworth and Costas turn themselves into low rent stand-up artists.

I can't believe I watched your lame schtick while Kevin Everett is lying in a hospital bed clinging to what's left of his career. It only goes to show how pathetic and vapid "Football Night in America" is in light of real life. Disgusting.

To think you retired to save your best years for later in life, Tiki. Good for you. While you sit there and create a storm of meaningless bullshit, guys like Kevin Everett risk everything just to play the game they love. Thank God you had the decency to give your self promotion a backseat in light of today's events.

What an assclown.

Pray for Kevin Everett

By Chris

On a day of renewed excitement throughout the country with the return of football, there is a somber cloud hanging over Buffalo.

Third-year tight end Kevin Everett was taken off the field on a stretcher and then driven off in an ambulance at the start of the second half. After colliding helmet-to-helmet with Domenik Hixon of the Denver Broncos, Everett fell limply onto the field. He wasn't moving and play was delayed for 15 minutes. As he was being loaded onto the ambulance, you could see that he was blinking, but there's no way to know his state of mind. He wasn't even able to give the obligatory thumbs up.

Everett has a cervical spine injury and had surgery for that injury Sunday evening. He's currently in intensive care for further evaluation. Even the casual football fan knew, from watching that hit, that nothing good could come from it.

Here's some pretty good coverage on Everett's condition from WIVB Channel 4 here in Buffalo (video of the hit is included, it's just not for the faint of heart). Link to Video.

This was supposed to be a big year for Everett, his breakout season. Coming from a long line of stand out tight ends from Miami, he was expected to do great things in Buffalo. He missed all of his rookie season with a knee injury and totaled just one catch for one yard in four starts last season. This was supposed to be a put-up-or-shut-up year and now he may not get his chance to show us what he's capable of.


So being a Buffalo sports blog, we here at the Roost want to extend our thoughts and prayers to Kevin Everett and his family, and encourage all of our readers and sports fans alike to do the same.

Sadly, my first thought after watching the hit was of Jason Street breaking his spine after trying to tackle an opposing player in the pilot of the Friday Night Lights TV show. I pray that Everett's injury isn't that serious.

The Bills lost a lot of players to injury in the season opener (including three starters on defense), but it's obvious that Everett's is the most serious.

We all remember David Pollack, the Bengals linebacker who broke his sixth cervical vertebrae last September. Pollack is on the fast track to recovery and may even be able to play next season. So there's hope that these things can work out for the best.

Get well soon, Kevin. We're all pulling for you.

UPDATE.

UPDATE: 9/11

Here we go again......

By Jon

If you've been a regular reader of the Roost since our inception (a whopping four months ago), I'm sure that you've realized that I am the pessimistic one, Ryan is the eternal optomist, and Chris represents the middle ground (I don't really know where Rich falls in there).

Today is no different.

I am not high on this Bills team. Today solidfied that. I'm fully convinced that it will be a football-less January down on One Bills Drive yet again. You can try all you want, but you won't be able to sway me otherwise. I don't think our quarterback is ready, I don't think our defense is good enough, and I certainly don't think the Bills will be able to overcome the plethora of injuries suffered earlier. Say what you will, but this Bills team is (still) in rebuilding mode, at least one year away from contending for even a wild-card spot.

Perhaps the least encouraging thing I took from the game is how awful the Broncos looked. Their offense in particular looked rather lost, with Jay Cutler showing his youth (i.e. passing backwards while under pressure.) The Broncos run defense certainly didn't look stellar. If we can't win a game in which the opposing team looked so sloppy and relinquished so many oppurtunities to take control of the game, how are we going to compete with contenders?

So, without further ado, I present your Week 1 positives and negatives.

Positives



- The beginning of the Bills opening drive. There was a great rhythm, with each play going for positive yardage (at least at first). Unfortunately, Marshawn Lynch missed a blitz pickup (rookie mistake, for sure), and the drive stalled. (Upon further review, maybe this should be under the negatives.)

-Marshawn Lynch had a very good first game, overall. After a rather quiet first quarter, Lynch picked up a huge first down at the end of the first half on a second-effort play after having his helmet dislodged at the line of scrimmage. To someone who was a bit skeptical of having a rookie as a starting RB, Lynch really proved himself to me. I can't wait to see him play next week, and there may be one of those obnoxious "Money" shirts in my future. Lynch later scored on an impressive 23 yard run, where he showcased his blazing speed and his ability to run through people. Lynch may single-handedly make the Bills season watchable.

-Josh Reed. His numbers were pedestrian (a measly four catches for 37 yards.) What the numbers don't show are the difficulty of said catches. Reed further proved that he isn't afraid to go over the middle, and held onto the ball despite heavy traffic and big hits. Also added a halfway decent end around to boot.

-Return teams. Roscoe Parrish's TD return was great, he had tons of room to run and hit holes at an alarmind speed. Terrence McGee would have returned a kick (which in hindsight, may have won the Bills the game), but for whatever reason, all-pro Champ Bailey was on the field to stop him (Ask Romeo Crennel and Kellen Williams what they think of having stars on special teams.) Mario Haggan also laid a monster block in the second half on a punt return, but Parrish wasn't quite able to spring loose.

-Jim Leonhard. He filled in rather nicely for Ko Simpson, finishing with a part in 13 tackles and throwing in a pick.

-The refs. Very good job today, in my opinion. Got the right call on the Brandon Marshall TD grab as well as the Jay Cutler shovel pass late in the game.

Negatives

- Special teams coverage units. Josh Scobey pulled a boneheaded move in making contact with Domenik Hixon in the second half, ruining a great punt by Brian Moorman. Another penalty also wiped out another Moorman gem, this time late in the game, leading to what proved to be the winning drive. Something tells me that Elam doesn't drain that kick if he's another fifteen yards back.

-The injuries. Webster, Wire, Simpson, and Everett all out, along with Ellison from a prior injury. My heart goes out to Everett and his family, as this serves as a chilling reminder that there is so much more to life than a stupid game. Get well soon, Kevin.

-Rian Lindell's post-missed FG reaction. Never have I seen a professional athlete look so pathetic.

- Randy Cross's color commentary. I hate that man. Get off of TV, you fool.

- The "C" on captain's jerseys. They look ridiculous. Please, leave the "C" to hockey.

- Brad Butler's false start penalty and JP's ensuing interception. Butler's penalty at the end of the first half put us out of range for a FG try (one that may have won us the game), and JP's ill-advised throw almost resulted in a Bronco's TD that would have sucked the life out of the Bills going into the half.

- JP Losman, in general. Looked pretty awful, but that may be a testament to the stellar Broncos pass D. We shall see in future weeks. Sorry JP, but 93 yards just isn't going to cut it.

- The game. It was a pretty terrible game to watch. Very little flow, very little offense. Hope things improve, but I certainly wouldn't hold my breath.

I am begging for the Bills to prove me wrong, don't get me wrong. But as a proud fan of a team that hasn't made the playoffs since the new milleneum, I'm not going to hold my breath.

8 in 8: AFC East

By Chris

In today's final installment of the Roost's NFL Preview, Eight Divisions in Eight Days, the AFC East is featured.

1. New England Patriots
Jeez what hasn't been said about these guys already? They should finish 6-0 in the division.

Normally, completely overhauling your receiving corps and cutting your receptions leader from last year would get you double looks from even Detroit Lions president Matt Millen. But this is New England we’re talking about, with a Canton-bound quarterback under center and a workaholic genius on the sidelines. If there’s any tandem in the league that can make that work and get Randy Moss motivated on Sundays, the Brady-Belichick duo is it. Brady might just even be this year’s Offensive MVP.

Oh yeah, they also added Pro Bowler Adalius Thomas to a defense that gave up just 237 points last season, second only to Thomas’ former team, Baltimore.

2. Buffalo Bills
Call me a sucker, but I've been debating as to whether the Bills will finish 2nd or 3rd in this division for a long while now. We just don't know what to expect from this team this year. The Bills could either be pretty good or really bad. They just better finish with a better record than the Dolphins. Expectations are pretty high here in Western New York, considering the team has not been to the playoffs since the Music Ci—I’ll stop there and spare fellow Bills fans the heart ache of that memory.

Regardless, I’m very excited to see Marshawn “Money” Lynch finally take a snap in a regular season game, and not just because he’s on my fantasy team. As long as the new players on the offensive line live up to their big contracts, Lynch, a potential Offensive Rookie of the Year, should be an upgrade over that guy that got traded away. And if J.P. Losman continues to improve and Josh Reed hangs on to the ball, the Bills should be in good hands on the offensive side.

The big questions will be on defense. As Vince Young showed us during the preseason, they could use some of Bobby Boucher’s Tackling Fuel, because the Bills just can’t tackle. I love Paul Posluszny and what he might bring to the table, but it’s the other positions that concern this fan.

The lack of depth at defensive end is troublesome and they don’t have a legitimate #2 cornerback. Jason Webster will be the whipping boy on the team by Week Four. Then again, is Terrence McGee really a legitimate #1?


3. New York Jets
There's just no way the Jets are as good as they were last year, right? Mangenious got the most out of his guys last year and then some. Sure they've upgraded at running back by getting Thomas Jones, but as long as Chad Pennington is their quarterback, I'm not sure how anyone can really take these guys seriously. I'm sure they'll be in the hunt at the end of the season, but I don't see them making too much noise.

4. Miami Dolphins
The defense isn't getting any younger and neither is their quarterback. They passed on Brady Quinn for Ted Ginn and I see that mistake haunting them for many years to come. Their offensive line won't open too many holes for Ronnie Brown and this team is going to struggle big time.

Tomorrow Never Dies

by Ryan


James Bond should be dead. We all should be, actually.

Think about it: in almost every 007 movie he gets a nice whack on the head with a gun. Add that kind of pistol-whipping up over time and you are looking at some very serious brain damage. Factor in his age and various STDs and Mr. Bond isn't stirring very much of anything anymore.

Why is this relevant, you ask? Do you know what a slang term for pistol-whipping is? Buffalo.



In less than twelve hours the Buffalo Bills will be on the field.

I have no idea how that will go. That may be what is keeping me up tonight, but no matter how much game tape I watch there isn't much I can do to prevent Travis Henry from scoring a touchdown for every child he fathers. In fact, that mental image alone just may give me nightmares forever.

What really keeps me awake at night is the pistol-whipping that each new season brings. Buffalo is famous for it, and no matter how many times we get that tolchock to the head we pop back up for more in next year's feature. It's a sick, twisted metaphor for hope in our sports world, one that we all know far too well.

The difference between us and James Bond is that everything works out in the end for 007. We sports fans are left alone to find our bearings after each train wreck, while it is Bond that gets the gun and the girl by movie's close.

So what is it that keeps us going? If Bond gets a paycheck, gadgets, and Rolling Stones style "Satisfaction" for each whack, what is our reward?

Nothing of value, that's for freaking sure. We haven't won a single thing, in the monetary or Biblical sense. And while many grow tired of this drought and drop off the bandwagon, well, I've been doing this too long to quit.

What I keep with me is the hope that someday all those beatings will be worth wile. Eventually, something's gotta give, whether in my head or in the pistol. In the meantime, the little things become a bit more important.

Cheering hard for John DiGiorgio because his mother and girlfriend are sitting the row below you. Buying a "Money" shirt and wearing it around no matter how pale and Irish you are. Debating if firing off a cap gun is in support of the Bills or Broncos, as well as how dumb you will look doing so.

The point is this: no matter how cruel an ending this season may have, there is no reason it shouldn't be fun. The team is young, J.P. may be coming into his own, and at the very least the stadium should be full every game. Plus the Dolphins are garbage! That makes it a good year already!

So no matter what happens tomorrow, I'll be okay. We all will be. Our faces here in Buffalo may be bloody and broken, but our hearts are strong. Solid, even.

And it don't get no better than solid.

8 in 8: AFC North

By Chris

Today's installment of the Roost's NFL Preview, "Eight Divisions in Eight Days," takes a look at the AFC North.

1. Baltimore Ravens
Despite their tough schedule (Weeks 12-14 include a road trip to San Diego and then two home games against New England and the Colts), the Ravens should win this division and secure the fourth playoff berth in the AFC. The defense was absolutely insane last year, and even without Adalius Thomas, there's no reason to think they can't lead the league in pretty much of all of the major stat categories again. And no, I'm not going to mention that slimeball new runningback they just traded fo--oops.

2. Pittsburgh Steelers
That's right, the Steelers are back. Couple a healthy Ben Roethlisberger with an MVP season for Troy Polamalu, and I see the Steelers locking up that first wild card spot in the AFC. The Bengals may be a sexier pick here, but everyone seems to forget that the Steelers were the defending champs going into last season. They faced a plethora of distractions, including Big Ben’s motorcycle wreck and Bill Cowher’s impending retirement that led to their disappointing season. New coach Mike Tomlin should be able to get the team focused and in shape to make another serious push for the postseason.


3. Cincinati Bengals
Just because they're finishing in third doesn't mean they're going to suck. I think they can seriously make a push for the Wild Card, but getting swept by the Steelers isn't going to help
their cause. Just a prediction. Carson Palmer is nasty and I love how 85 is already talking trash, but I just can't see this team leapfrogging over the Ravens or the Steelers, at least not this year at least.

4. Cleveland Browns
They're going to be soooo bad. They'll have a Top 3 pick again in the draft I bet, and they won't even be able to use it since they traded it away to get backup Brady Quinn this year. Good news for Dallas. This team could go 1-15 and I'm not sure anyone would be totally shocked. Looks to me like the curtain on the Romeo Crennell era may be drawing to a close...

8 in 8: AFC West

By Chris

In today's edition of the Roost's NFL Preview, 8 in 8, we take a look at the AFC West.

1. San Diego Chargers
Probably the best all-around team in the league outside of New England. Norv Turner loves to run the ball so expect another dominant season from LaDainian Tomlinson. And as the maturation of Phillip Rivers continues, he'll probably want to look for Antonio Gates a little more this season. Couple Gates' "comeback" with the emerging Vincent Jackson and it looks like the Chargers should win about 13 games to take home the division.

2. Denver Broncos
In a very, and I mean very, top-heavy division, look for the Jay Cutler-led Broncos to secure a wild card berth. One of the most balanced teams in the league, it's Mike Shannahan that puts them over the top of other playoff hopefuls New York, Jacksonville and Cincinnati (that's right, Pittsburgh will make the playoffs. More on that tomorrow.). Big Poppa Travis Henry should have a career year behind Denver's almost-mythical offensive line and the defense should be as stingy as ever. Expect them to win that extra lat season game this season to get them into the postseason.

3. Kansas City Chiefs
No matter how high the Roost's own Rich might supposedly be on KC, let's face it: They're just not going to be very good. Sure Larry Johnson is great, but he'll have to carry the load on offense and will his body be able to handle another 1,293-carry season? I honestly can't name three players on their defense without cheating, and while it may not be about names, that doesn't hide the fact that they'll be very bad this year. Luckily, they've got Oakland in their division to spoil any hopes of "winning" the top pick in next year's draft.

4. Oakland Raiders
They've got a quarterback controversy between Daunte Culpepper and Josh McCown. I think that just about sums up dah Raidahs this year. That and a commitment to high draft picks that they can't sign. Do I really have to waste more breath on these losers? (Running and hiding under my desk now because Raiders fans are freaking nuts).

Shenanigans

by Ryan


I, as do many rational sports fans, freaking hate the Patriots. It's not much of a stretch. really. They are division rivals, consistently smoking the Bills twice a year. Oh, and they have a few Super Bowl wins in the last decade. Can't forget about those.

Now while they deserve reverence and respect for their success and all that crap, I still hate everything about them. From that freaking space lighthouse to Reche Caldwell's now unemployed googly eyes, rage grips my soul at the very mention of New England's boys. Their smugness kills me. Sometimes I like to imagine Bill Belichick savoring his own farts and contemplating which hybrid car to buy next.

So when I see stories like this I get really pissed off. In fact, I declare shenanigans.

Tom Brady isn't hurt. The only thing that has been hurting him recently is his wallet, which will now hurt him for the next 18 years. However, this does not constitute his placement on the eternal injury report. I mean, the guy's been on the injured list since he gained the starting spot. He's either made of sugarcane or the most self detrimental quarterback of all time.

The thing is, putting him and others on the injury report with slightly sinister motives does nothing. What head coach isn't going to gameplan for Tom Brady no matter how stiff his shoulder is? In all the weeks he has been on that rediculous report, which head coach has gameplanned for Sage Rosenfels, Doug Flutie, or any other second stringer? Does Billy think his word is enough to force Tits McGee over there to break out the Matt Cassel game tape?

Tom Brady's 108 game start streak must really mean something, then. This guy's giving everything he has to even show up in uniform, let alone get out there and throw. His shoulder must look like Pedro's after all those deep balls.

Wait, what about screen passes? Never heard of them.

Madden got it wrong

By Chris

After watching the Colts-Saints game tonight, I've really got to question John Madden's credibility. There is no way Peyton Manning was Indy's best player on the field. Sure it looked like it he was playing Madden 08 out there, but there's no way his face should have been slapped on Madden's bus. I present to you,
And the honor belongs to this guy: Saints cornerback Jason David. David got burned for three of the Colts' scores, putting him under a cloud Tim Donaghy-esque suspicion. Actually that's a little extreme. But the fact remains that he was really the best player for the Colts tonight, earning him the Roost's Real Horse Trailer Player of the Game award for Week One.






















Congrats, #42. Your Yahoo! Picture Gallery really is one for the ages.

Cherry Pickin' Week One

Each correct pick against the spread is worth one point. The "Sure Bet" pick is worth 2 points. The Rooster with the most points at season's end wins a major award. May the biggest loser win.

8 in 8: AFC South

by Rich

Today's edition of the Roost's NFL preview series takes a look at the AFC South.

1. Indianapolis Colts

The defending Super Bowl champs are the obvious favorites in their division, but they also face some serious questions: Can Joseph Addai avoid the sophomore slump and carry the load as a full-time feature back? Will second-rounder Tony Ugoh be up to the task of protecting Peyton Manning's blind side? Can you name anyone on the Colts defense other than Dwight Freeney and Bob Sanders? In the end, it simply doesn't matter. Peyton & Co will cut that meat all the way to another division title.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars

I had a hard time picking this team to finish second in the division, mainly because their coaching staff doesn't seem to have much of an idea what they're doing. "Hey, let's start one quarterback all 4 preseason games, then release him the week before the season starts and just assume that the other guy will be able to step in with no problems, despite not getting a single rep against a first-team defense or with the first-team offense all preseason." Personally, that type of logic ranks right between "Let's get drunk and get tattoos" and "Only $7 million for Jeff Weaver? What a deal!" on my list of bad decisions. On the other hand, that defense is still plenty scary, especially up front, and MoJo Drew should keep them in games and fantasy owners drooling, so they should hold their own.

3. Tennessee Titans

On the plus side, the Titans have Vince Young, who is already one of the most exciting young QBs in the league. Unfortunately, that's about the only positive I can really think of. Pacman Jones was their best defensive player, and we all know how that's working out for them. If that's not enough, Vince has the Madden curse to contend with in addition to the usual "sophomore slump." Oh yeah, and I couldn't name a single one of their recievers. ...

Wow. I just looked it up, and uh...Eric Moulds is starting. Well, good luck with that one, Nashville.

4. Houston Texans

Poor Andre Johnson. On any other team, he'd be a Pro-Bowler and a household name. Maybe the Matt Schaub Experiment will work out, and the Texans will finally emerge from the cellar of the AFC. Or more likely, their front office will spend the entire season figuring out the mechanics of time travel so that they can go back and take a mulligan on Mario Williams.

Put StubHub On Notice

by Ryan


While many prepare for the NFL Season to start tonight, others have already turned their attention to hockey. Next week Sabres mini camp opens up, and rumor has it the team will also unviel their new uniform style on September 15th. While that may not be a drastic change, any hockey news is good news to me. It's been a long summer.

Also in the news are Preseason ticket sales, which acutally started on Tuesday morning.

The team has doubled their home preseason games this year (2), so that should give more people an opportunity to check the new team out. Hopefully Adam Mair will repeat as the Sabres' preseason scoring champ.

Tickets range from $15-40 for adults, with some discount for children that frankly I'm too lazy to figure out. Oh, 50% off with purchase of an adult ticket. Whatever.

I like the discounted tickets for preseason games because they rarely have any entertainment value. Backup goaltenders, farmed out 9th defensemen, and "The Wave" are common themes in most exibitions. Most of the time the stars sit out. Last year Buffalo's only preseason home game was against Pittsburgh. The only time I saw Sid the Kid was when I looked up into the press box. (Look for the same thing to happen this year, as our Pens game is the second of a home and home.)

Making both preseason games unofficial "Kids Day" celebrations will certianly keep me away from the exhibitions, but it is good for the game. Many of the little people will be attending their first live hockey game. Anyone that has seen live hockey game can tell you there is a big difference between it and TV hockey. It just may be enough to keep them interested once hockey isn't the "it" thing to do around here.

I personally think they should give out some skates and encourage youth hockey at every possible opportunity. Great Skate should get a jump on this and raffle off some junior Synergys or something.

Hey, if McDonalds is allowed to cram Happy Meals down our kids' throats, why can't we do the same with hockey? Why let our kids get all metro'ed up by youth soccer? Hockey builds character, looks cooler, and doesn't force them to wear short shorts that expose their inadaquate calf muscles. That's traumatic stuff for little kids.

Besides, with the full cages youth hockey uses, you'll never have to worry about dental work. Ronaldinho can't make you the same promise.

8 in 8: NFC North

By Jon

Pretty predictable division, if I say so myself.

1. Chicago Bears

No surprise here, or at least there shouldn't be. Last year's NFC champs return nearly everyone, with the major exceptions being Thomas Jones (trade to NYJ) and Tank Johnson (criminal). While there may be a slight drop-off statistically at RB and DT, respectively, Cedric Benson and Darwin Walker (yes, that guy) should pick up the majority of the slack. The big question mark, as it was last year, is the quarterback. I don't think I'm in the minority when I say that Brian Griese is a better QB than Rex Grossman. Expect to see Griese at some point this season.

2. Green Bay Packers

The rest of the division is downright mediocre, in my estimation. Some people think the Pack will surprise some people. Count me out. Brett Favre returns, sparing the Green Bay faithful from the Aaron Rodgers era. Gone is Ahman Green (not that he was all that exceptional the last few years anyways), replaced by the combo of Vernand Morency and rookie Brandon Jackson. I'm sure that opposing d-linemen everywhere are terrified. The defense, especially the front four and corners, should be excellent, but I can't see this team winning many games having to rely on Brett Favre's aging arm for nearly all of its offense.

3. Detroit Lions

You heard (read?) me. I don't expect the Lions to finish at the bottom of the division. They've gotten slightly better on offense with the addition via draft of Calvin Johnson, and adding Tatum Bell (who I'm very high on) to their RB carousel. John Kitna certainly isn't going to win them many games at QB, but he won't lose many either. And he's a hell of a lot better than Tavaris Jackson, that's for sure. Speaking of which....

4. Minnesota Vikings

Sorry Minny fans, this ain't your year. Never a good sign when you're QB depth chart reads like this: Tavaris Jackson, Brooks Bollinger, Drew Henson. The running game should be solid, as the line is solid. The defense should be good as well, but you will never be able to convince me that a team who's quarterback goes into every game thinking, "Just don't screw that up" will have any sort of success.

8 in 8: NFC South

by Ryan

In today's edition of the Roost's NFL Preview, "Eight in Eight", we look at the NFC South.

1. New Orleans Saints
This is pending Drew Brees having his arm fall off after 554 attempts last year, but even then Reggie Bush may have a 60% completion percentage with the weapons available. My fantasy IQ tells me that Marques Colston will still be a dominant receiver; and with Bush catching passes out of the backfield, Devry Henderson in the two slot, and decent defense backing them up, I smell an easy playoff birth. Look for the Saints to repeat as South Champs.

2. Carolina Panthers
Jake Delhomme is the only thing keeping me from a higher ranking. I like Steve Smith, DeShaun Foster looks rejuvenated, and their defense will be staunch as always, but questions with the QB just may keep the team from firing on all cylinders.

For an 8-8 team whose "key addition" is David Carr, it's hard to believe they will finish in the upper half. Julius Peppers and company should thank Mike Vick for the help. A nice fruit basket should do just fine.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Take a look at the Depth Chart and tell me what's wrong. No, you're right, they should have more quarterbacks. Absolutely.

Cadillac Williams will more than likely bounce back from his Sophomore Slump, but it's not going to be enough to lift the Bucs from a sub .500 record.

4. Atlanta Falcons
Joe Horn does not like the Joey Harrington Experience. Joe Horn does like Mike Vick. Joe Horn advises Mike Vick stay strong, and give Chris Redman some pointers. Mr. Horn wishes he was back in New Orleans.



Joe Horn is not amused.

Roenick Thinks the New Sharks Logo is Sick

by Ryan

Roger Clemens, Michael Jordan, and many others have already made press conferences pointless with their retiring and un-retiring. Now we have Jeremy Roenick to thank for ruining text message news.

Seriously, the man announced his retirement via text message to a reporter from the Philadelphia Inquirer; and now he takes it back. Verizon is going to be pissed, man. Say goodbye to your free VCAST package.

A move to San Jose is great for us all, really. Unfortunately when the winds shift we will hear still him screaming about something, but just like the buzz of high tension wires we will learn to ignore it. Plus the surf scene in San Jose will provide him with an ample supply of board wax for his luscious hair.

I'm not so sure that this isn't a desperate attempt to get 500 goals, but based on his stats last year (11 goals in 70 games), well, it certainly is a desperate attempt to get 500 goals.

Being the 5th scorer on the Coyotes is one thing, but this Sharks team is a whole other story. I doubt he will see much higher than the 3rd line, and never see a second of power play time. (This is a team with Thornton and Marleau on it, mind you.)

In any event, expect a Myspace message from Jeremy next spring when he decides to hang up the skates and assault our ears as a studio analyst. I can't wait.

Joe Theismann need not apply

By Chris

I can't wait for the new season of Friday Night Lights. I really can't. I was sketchy on the show at first and never really got into it until midseason. So I watched about a dozen episodes online in order to catch up and I don't regret the decision one bit. It's a great show with a lot of heart and the football scenes are surprisingly pretty good. Don't worry, you'll be getting more Lights praising from me in the coming months.

So I was on NBC's website this evening looking up some information on the upcoming second season (which begins Oct. 5 at 9 p.m. ET), and my jaw dropped when I saw this link at the bottom of the page:

AMERICAN GLADIATORS CASTING CALL

Yes that's right. American Gladiators is returning and looking for contestants and I couldn't be happier. I'm too young to appreciate the show for what it was when it was happening, but I remember watching reruns on TNN on weekday mornings in the summer. I'd wake up early--OK, like 10ish--to catch Miami Vice and then American Gladiators. Good memories.

It looks like the show is going to be a mid-season replacement (imdb.com has it pegged for a 2008 debut), but the wait will be soooo worth it. Yes I know this has the potential to suck hard, but the anticipation is what it's all about right? The worst thing that could happen is that the debut gets delayed because the new Nitro decided to stock up on HGH before filming. And I'm willing to bet no one would be surprised.

Also, even if you're not jacked up like Tim Couch and you're not thinking about applying, take a look at some of the questions being asked in the application for potential contestants. There's some really personal stuff in there.

• "13. Have you had any experiences that have traumatized you?"

• "14. What is your unique and personal motivation for wanting to compete on the show?"

• "19. What conversation topics are 'off limits' for you at a dinner party?"

• "21. If you were going to be in People magazine, what inside info about you would be put next to your picture?"

• "24. If you had Aladdin's lamp and had 3 wishes, what would you wish for? (Rule: you can't wish for money or more wishes). 1. 2. 3. Why?"

• "25. What is your strategy to win the game? (We won't tell the others.)"

• "Draw a picture of yourself in the box below"

Basically every storyline they want to make about you on the show is right there in this application. Maybe I should have tune into The Contender tomorrow night, just for those up lifting and "scripted" subplots each boxer has. Then again, maybe I made the right choice in watching Rocky III tonight instead. After all, Clubber Lang could probably take Laser in the Joust.

Wingfest

by Ryan


The title really does say it all.

Wingfest was this weekend at Dunn Tire Park, and while that may not have anything to do with sports, it certianly does have a lot to do with Buffalo.

Sure, they had competitive eating events, but anyone that considers this the pinnacle of competition is grossly misunderstanding the definition of sport. No, really... that's pretty gross.

The food was good as always. The wings in the picture above are from the Anchor Bar, which lived up to the hype. (For those not from around here, the Anchor Bar is, as the kids say, the cat's pyjamas.)

It was interesting to look around Dunn Tire Park from the field. When the National League was looking for expansion cities, Buffalo was looked at very seriously. Dunn Tire was also looked at when the Expos needed a place to, um, not be the Expos anymore.

What kept anything from happening were the usual problems that come with Buffalo. Too small of a city, not enough money, no corporate sponsorships to speak of. Everything that keeps us trapped in the fear of losing the teams we love also prevents us from ever seeing anything more come in.

The sad thing is that it could be done. With a bit of imagination you can see the stadium expanded. Bleachers in the outfield, just jutting out above the onramp to the highway. An upper deck above the lower bowl, new press box, and a state of the art video board in center. In my mind it looks pretty darn good, before all that reality comes back.

Sure, the Bisons have a storied history and a loyal fanbase. But this city is a very, very different place if we have the Rockies or Marlins playing downtown. Even with a very strong alleigance to another team, I would be hard pressed not to be a fan if we had a National League team in Buffalo.

I know it's pointless, talking about all these what ifs, but it is something to think about. What would this city be like if we never had an NHL team? The Bisons of the AHL played at the Aud long before the Sabres took their place. What happens if the Knox brothers never take that chance?

Pointless, I know, because they did take that chance. But on these days before anything happens, what else is there to do but wonder about potential?

Wingfest wasn't about the what ifs, but in between all that sun and wing sauce I couldn't help but be reminded of it.

8 in 8: NFC West

By Chris

In today's edition of the Roost's NFL Preview, "Eight in Eight," we look at the NFC West.

1. St Louis Rams
Scott Linehan's offense should put up some gaudy numbers this year and propel the Rams to the head of the pack. Behind one of the best offensive lines in the game, potential MVP Marc Bulger has a plethora of weapons at his disposal including suddenly-elite runner Steven Jackson, Torry Holt (one of the league's most dangerous receivers even when not 100%), Isaac Bruce (still a threat at 35), and Drew Bennett (a former #1 in Tennessee, now a 3). They even added former X-Factor Dante Hall for kick returns. The Rams defense is also very capable of winning games. On the D-Line, Leonard Little had 13 sacks last season and the team drafted nose tackle Adam Carriker to solidify the line for the future. Look for the Rams to make a lot of noise this year.

2. San Francisco 49ers
Three years ago they were a joke, but now it seems that the 49ers are ready to make the leap to become a Wild Card contender. With most teams, the key to success is at the quarterback position and this is the season where we'll find out if Alex Smith is ready to lead a team into the postseason. Frank Gore is a beast when healthy and the team put a lot of money into the defense this offseason. Former Bill, the shutdown corner Nate Clements, steps in at $80 million to bolster a secondary that had a mediocre 27 takeaways a year ago. The '9ers should be fun to watch and competitive in every game. Can't wait to watch these guys in December.

3. Seattle Seahawks
They'll probably finish in second place in the division. They have a lot of experience and bounceback years from Matt Hasselbeck and Shaun Alexander should give them a big boost, but it's tough to see them jumping over San Fran and St Louis right now. Seattle is a talented, well coached team, and that should be enough to keep them alive in Week 15, but they're now in a tough division and will suffer because of that.

4. Arizona Cardinals
By default, the Cardinals are at the bottom of the heap once again. In a division that got really good, really fast, Arizona is just a victim of inexperience that will lose the close games against their divisional opponents. Edgerin James can only be better, but their line has been historically awful and it's far fetched to think they'll get better anytime soon. Their defense isn't anything spectacular. Prediction for new head coach Ken Whisenhunt's first Dennis Green-esque meltdown: Postgame Week 5 (at St Louis).



*******
And finally, Peter King's Monday Morning Quarterback is always a must-read, but this week is especially good. King brings in former Bills center Ross Tucker to detail what it's like to get cut from an NFL team. Tucker was placed on injured reserve by the Redskins this weekend as they trimmed their roster down to 53.

A sampling:

Before signing my medical paperwork, I asked the team for an MRI to make sure my neck was OK after having those two stingers in the game. It turns out I have a herniated disc that may require surgery at some point. Two doctors told me I shouldn't play again this year because of some signs of spinal cord irritation. They don't think it is a good idea if I ever play again. The Redskins put me on injured reserve, but the end result is the same: I will never play football again.

Link to the story.

Eight Divisions in Eight Days: NFC East

By Chris

The Roost's NFL Football Preview begins today and I know how much you all have been waiting for this one. Each day, I'll tackle each of the eight divisions and give what insight I think I have into each team's upcoming season. Today I'll be taking a look at the NFC East.

1. Philadelphia Eagles
Well someone has to win this division, so it might as well be the Iggles. This of course, is contingent on the health of Donovan McNabb. They've got a real good offense and a stingy and consistent defense. Sure they've gotten rid of Dahani Jones and Jeremiah Trotter, but they've still got Brian Dawkins, one of the league's best safeties and Lito Sheppherd, who isn't half bad. What it comes down to is that someone has to win this division and the Eagles, when healthy, seem to be best equipped to do so.

2. Dallas Cowboys
I was going to pick the Cowboys to win the East. I really was. But then I remembered who their coach is. Our old friend Wade Phillips was too good to wear a headset when he coached the Bills, and while I think the 'Boys offense is going to put up some sick numbers, I have a feeling that they're going to be losing a helluva lot of close games. Phillips is not a good head coach. He botched the entire Doug Flutie/Rob Johnson situation and split an entire fanbase here in Buffalo because of that controversy. Flutie Magic or not, if I was a Cowboys fan, I just wouldn't trust this guy running my team. Yeah, he's a really good coordinator; he got the most out of his players in San Diego, but he's going to be making all of the crucial decisions and I can guarantee that he'll be wrong more often than he'll be right. So look for them losing some tight games in the fourth quarter and those losses ultimately costing them a Wild Card berth.

3. Washington Redskins
Jason Campbell is the starting quarterback. The defense underachieved last year, but it won't be good enough to compensate for an inexperienced quarterback. The Portis-Betts combo, which they'll have to rely on because of a potentially shaky passing game, won't last long. And as I look into the crystal ball, I see some very amusing press conferences from Portis taking thinly veiled shots at Joe Gibbs and Al Saunders for making him share the ball. He wants to be the featured back but with the emergence of Betts, he might lose a lot of carries, especially those going across the goal line. Combine that controversy with a not-so-talented team, and you're looking at a 6 win season.

4. New York Giants
Couple a flaky starting quarterback with a running back that can't hang onto the football and you're looking at a team in trouble. The defense is nothing special and neither is the offense really when you look at it. The players don't like their coach and it won't be very long before they quit on him and we have to listen to a Coughlin meltdown. And then it will be all over SportsCenter and then we can all listen to Tiki Barber tell us all he was right. Who says the offseason is too long?

Holy September

by Ryan


Man, it sure didn't take long for me to realize how much I've missed some real sports news. After three long summer months with minimal sporting options, the reality of fall just hit me over the head: fall is freaking awesome.

Just look at the front page of any sports website. There's barely any room for today's news. I just finished watching a ridiculously entertaining tennis match, and that won't even make page two.

I mean, did you see Clay Buchholz tonight? The kid threw a freaking no hitter at Fenway in his second start ever. Now I know as a Red Sox fan this means more personally then it may for others, but even when you take away allegiences this is pretty incredible.

Still, it can be argued that it wasn't even the biggest news of the day. Hey, 21 rookies have thrown no-nos, but how many I-AA teams beat ranked opponents on opening day as an away team? None? Not anymore.

There will be people more qualified than I that will write about these stories, and with those words will be more concrete analysis of the day's events. Still, a day like this is the exact reason why people watch sports.

In a world in which everything seems so determined, sports bring an element of potential that is rarely seen elsewhere. After a while, everyone knows how that movie will end, and everyone has heard that song. But on any given day, one game can be more than that. One blocked kick can change the face of the BCS, and one 23 year old can electrify the smallest ballpark in the majors.

Of course, the modern sports fan values single days more than ever. Many out there desire to make an instant history out of that one game, taking something special and attaching absolutes to it.

However, what is important is not whether what you witnessed was the "best ever," but rather what purpose the extraordinary served. Games on days such as these remind us of why we bother to watch, why we take the time to be a fan.

In some posts I touch upon something I call "Why Sports Matter." In reality it is more of a question than an answer. Many times I ask myself why I put so much effort into being a sports fan when there are other things to focus on. Surely I could devote my time on earth to more worthy tasks, so why do I care so much?

Thankfully, this is a question I don't have to answer. My answer is found within box scores, power plays, and out routes. No combination or words are better than what our eyes can see, and with some luck, days like September 1st happen for us.


Today was a good day, and a good reminder of why we do this in the first place.

The Final Cutdown

By Chris

The Buffalo Bills trimmed their roster to 53 players today and put defensive end Al Wallace on the Injured Reserve. Cop beater Anthony Hargrove was also officially placed on the suspended reserve list because he violated the NFL's Substance Abuse Policy earlier in training camp. "The Franchise," Craig Nall, will be looking for a new home and so will Shaud Williams and Jonathan "Fast Freddy" Smith after all three were among those released by the team.

Cutting Nall is a testament to how well Trent Edwards has progressed during his rookie campaign. And even though Losman is the starting quarterback this season, the pressure to perform is real. If Edwards' performance forced the coaching staff to cut a veteran after only four "games," then who knows how soon it will be until they believe that Edwards can be a very capable starting NFL quarterback?

Roost favorite Fred Jackson made the team, proving that there is some justice in the world. Jackson played his heart out in the preseason and was able to break some good, hard earned runs. Having him around should be good for locker room morale, reminding guys what the game is about. Losing Shaud Williams is really no big loss.

And the special teams should once again be outstanding this season. Sam Aiken, Coy Wire, and Josh Stamer made the team, showing the influence of Special Teams Coach Bobby April (who, from what I've been told, looks like my dad).

Also getting the axe was H-Back Brad Cieslak. So it doesn't look like he'll be doing any touchdown dances in Arizona in a Bills uniform this season.