Brew City Sports

What If?

2012-01-26T18:06:00.002-06:00

Prince Fielder Will Join This Guy and His Dad in Detroit in 2012

Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Monday, April 3, 2006. Prince Fielder begins his first full season in the major leagues against the Pittsburgh Pirates, going 0-4 with 4 strikeouts. The golden sombrero. While Fielder would go on to post 6 of the finest seasons in Brewers franchise history, this inauspicious start to his 2006 season has been forgotten. So, too, was his 0-5 with three strikeouts the next game. But I find myself thinking of this over and over. What if these games never happened? And what if Fielder was allowed to have 6.75 of the best seasons in franchise history? Why did Prince Fielder start the 2006 season in Milwaukee rather than Nashville?

Let’s start by asking, “was Fielder ready for the majors?” I would say most certainly so, but he also wasn’t so ready for the majors that he couldn’t have spent 2 more months in Nashville. He had a .957 OPS in 378 ABs in Nashville and a .764 OPS in 59 cup-of-coffee ABs in Milwaukee in 2005. But two major defects existed in his game: strikeouts and defense. He had 93 K’s in Nashville and a worrisome 2:17 BB:K in Milwaukee. While the strikeout numbers were not horrible for a power hitter like Fielder, they did signal that he was likely not going to be a superstar in his first season in the majors, especially considering his poor defense. In 2006, all around, Fielder was about an average first baseman in the majors. Staying in Nashville until June would likely not have developed Fielder, who needed to make the transition to the majors, but it certainly would have been a justifiable move for the Brewers to make at the time.

The next question is, “did the Brewers have any other options at first base?” This answer is a resounding, “yes.” Lyle Overbay completed the 2005 season with a .816 OPS, and he could have been kept for another season (not that trading him wasn’t smart). Russell Branyan was allowed to walk away from the Brewers after the 2005 season. At this point in history, Branyan was a better hitter than Fielder. And, during this time, the Brewers were employing Carlos Lee in left field, a position Lee was not equipped to play. Moving Lee to first base would have created several issues of its own, but the fact is that the Brewers could have filled first base without calling Fielder up.

The last question is, “did the Brewers need the extra win or two that Fielder could provide in 2006?” This answer is an obvious and resounding, “no!” While the 2005 team finished 81-81 and gave immense hope for the future, the future was not 2006. The 2006 team finished with 75 wins, a lucky total for a team that surrendered over 100 runs more than they scored. Though the NL Central Division was horrible in 2006, the Brewers were not a legitimate contender. Their third starter was Dave Bush. Their second best reliever was…Rick Helling?! This is the bullpen that was so thin it employed Derrick Turnbow (6.87 ERA) at closer for two-thirds of a season, as well as Chris Mabeus, Joe Winkelsas, and Chris Spurling. I could go on, but you get the point. Having now witnessed a division-winning team in Milwaukee, looking back at this pitching staff it was obvious, or at least it should have been, that the Brewers were not going to win anything in 2006.

Yet, Doug Melvin brought Fielder up to the majors in April instead of June (or July, whatever was necessary given Fielder’s 2005 call-up and the other rookie call-ups of the time). The Brewers maybe won one more game than they otherwise would have in a season that was utterly meaningless. What if Melvin had been patient? Fielder may have been pissed, sure, but that wouldn’t really matter. It wouldn’t affect his play. All I can say is it is a damn shame.

The Brewers enter 2012 trying to defend their 2011 divisional crown, and they do it having lost perhaps their most important player. The cards are now stacked against the Brewers this year, in what will likely be the last year the Brewers have any legitimate shot at competing for the postseason until 2017 at the earliest. And every time I say or I hear someone else say, “if we only had Fielder for one more season,” I think of that opening day performance in 2006 and shake my head. What if Doug Melvin had just been a little more patient?

The Dagger Thrown and the Yardage Surrendered

2012-01-10T15:41:00.021-06:00

The video below has the audio of this post being read by Steve Czaban on Milwaukee morning radio. Thanks to 102.9 The Hog for the audio and obviously Steve for the mention.

6,585 yards (32^nd) and 359 points (19^th) were surrendered by the Green Bay Packers’ defense in the 2011 season. Dead last in yards allowed, an NFL record 4,796 passing yards allowed and a below average points against total is an atrocious showing for any defensive unit, much less one that won a Super Bowl a year ago and finished the most recent season 15-1. Yes, the Packers defense tied for a league-high 38 turnovers forced (31 INTs, 7 fumbles) and the defense/special teams accounted for 5 touchdowns (tied for 4^th overall), but the yards surrendered shouldn’t be any less alarming. Or should they?

After an absolute routing of Oakland at home, fans started to write off the yardage surrendered as the team basically giving up in the fourth quarter. Who could blame them? Returning 9 defensive starters from the previous season, one could hardly fault the snake-bitten Packers for wanting to avoid the injured reserve list previously occupied by 10 defensive players (7 of whom saw significant playing time) last season, especially when games were well in hand.

Football stat gurus Football Outsiders took a league-wide look at their DVOA figures, removing team performance in the 4^th quarter of games after the week 14 game against Oakland. Those results showed the Packers as having the 4^th highest drop in DVOA performance in the 4^th quarter of games in 2011. That result is nothing astounding, but significant nonetheless.

That said, those calculations were a quick, broad attempt in determining which teams tend to ease off the gas pedal in the 4th quarter. Packer fans should be understandably skeptical after witnessing their team breeze through a 15-1 season where their offense gained fewer yards than their defense allowed (6.482 vs. 6,585), and rightfully so. Aaron Rodgers was so brutally efficient this year that 11% of his 502 passing attempts went for touchdowns, and the Packers posted a +201 point differential that would have topped the league were the Packers as concerned as the Saints about their QB winning the MVP.

Driving home listening to the radio during that Oakland game, I came to a revelation that sparked the research for this piece. In the 3^rd and 4^th quarter, Wayne Larravee and Larry McCarren referred to all of Oakland’s yards/points as “garbage” and Mike McCarthy was quoted after the game as saying, “It’s not often in this league that you can say you won a game by halftime, but that happened today.” How do we account for situations wherein a team is so efficient, they’ve won the game before the start of the fourth quarter? And does that affect their performance?

If you’re wondering whether good teams truly ease up when they feel the game is at hand, look no further than this year’s Patriots Colts game. The AFC’s best Patriots surrendered 21 points to a winless Colts team in the fourth quarter, under the mentality of resting starters in the hopes of winning both the battle and the season-long war. The Patriots have the highest winning percentage and three championships in the last decade. I’d consider this clever gamesmanship, not an indictment of the quality of their defense.

Using advancednflstats.com’s win probably numbers combined with admittedly subjectively designated scoring plays, I’ve produced a game by game analysis of when the proverbial “dagger” was delivered and the “garbage” yardage and points that were surrendered beyond that point. The two general dagger-defining criteria used will be a +.95 WP and a Packer’s point total at the time that exceeds their opponent’s final point total, erring on the later points in the game where both criteria are met. At the end, I’ll tally those post-dagger yards/points, discuss omissions and explain what it all means.

Week 1 vs the Saints. Dagger: John Kuhn TD with 11:52 remaining in the 4^th quarter to put the Packers up 42-27. On the ensuing possession, the Saints get the ball back but produce a 3 and out. At 5:35 in the 4^th quarter, the Saints get the ball back again with a .01WP, still down 15 and start their first scoring drive and so we start the first “garbage” yardage/points tally:

Drive 1: 76 yards, 7 points.
Drive 2: 79 yards, 0 points. Mark Ingram stopped on the goaline on 4^th down, Packers up 42-34.
Ballgame

Week 2 vs Panthers. Dagger: 84 yard TD pass to Jordy Nelson with 2:26 remaining in the 4^th quarter. Packers are up by 14 (30-16) with a .99WP. Garbage tally:

Drive 1: 83 yards, 7 points.
Ballgame

Week 3 vs. Bears. Dagger: Rodgers 10 yard TD to Finley, Packers up 27-10 with 12:49 to go in the 4th quarter. On the ensuing drive, Cutler throws a pick to Morgan Burnett, Packers .99WP. Garbage tally:

Drive 1: 32 yards, 7 points.
Drive 2: 4 yards
Drive 3: 20 yards
Drive 4: 16 yards
Ballgame

Week 4 vs. Broncos. Dagger: Rodgers 8 yard TD scramble, Packers up 35-17 with 8:26 left in the 3^rd quarter, .98WP. Yes, an early 3^rd quarter dagger. The Packers score twice more after this and Denver has several possessions, but they finish the game with 23 points. Garbage tally:

Drive 1: 50 yards
Packers go up 42-17
Drive 2: -4 yards
Drive 3: 0 yards, INT
Packers go up 49-17
Drive 4: 78 yards, 7 points.
Drive 5: 7 yards
Ballgame

Week 5 vs. Falcons. Dagger: Rodgers 29 yard TD to Jennings, Packers up 22-14, after a few possessions, .99WP for Packers after Crosby field goal. The WP graph plays a big part in determining the dagger here: the touchdown to go up 22-14 only gives the packers a .86WP, it’s not until enough clock is killed that the chart spikes to .99 and stays there. Atlanta gets the ball with 1:10 left in the 4^th quarter. Garbage tally:

Drive 1: 57 yards.
Bush INT, Ballgame.

Week 6 vs. Rams. Dagger: Rodgers 7 yard TD to Driver with 1:51 left in 2^nd quarter, Packers up 24-0, .96WP. Garbage tally:

Drive 1: 62 yards, 3 points.
Drive 2: 32 yards
Drive 3: 70 yards
INT Sam Shields
Drive 4: 60 yards
Drive 5: 17 yards
Drive 6: 15 yards
Ballgame

Week 7 vs. Vikings. Dagger: Mason Crosby field goal after INT, Packers up 30-17, .97WP with 3:18 left in the 3^rd quarter. Garbage tally:

Drive 1: 50 yards
INT Charles Woodson, Packers Field goal, up 33-17.
Drive 2: 52 yards, 3 points
Drive 3: 77 yards, 7 points
Drive 4: 34 yards, Vikings punt, never get it back.
Ballgame

Week 9 vs Chargers. Dagger: Rodgers 4 yard TD to Jennings, Packers up 45-24, .99WP with 10:27 left in the 4^th quarter. The Packers hit .97WP when they score 38 points, but because San Diego ultimately puts up 38 points of their own, the touchdown to get to 45 points is the true dagger. Yes, this was a close shootout, but I’d call a 21 point lead with 10 minutes left to play a done deal. Garbage tally:

Drive 1: 80 yards, 7 points.
Recovered onside kick
Drive 2: 55 yards, 7 points.
Drive 3: 10 yards, punt.
Drive 4: 30 yards, INT Charlie Peprah.
Ballgame

Week 10 vs Vikings. Dagger: Rodgers 17 yard TD to Jordy Nelson, Packers up 24-0, .97WP with 9:10 left in the 3^rd quarter. Garbage tally:

Drive 1: Cobb fumbled punt, 17 yards, 7 points.
Packers TD to Kuhn
Drive 2: 32 yards
Packers TD to Nelson
Drive 3: 0 yards
Matt Flynn TD
Drive 4: 40 yards
Ballgame

Week 11 vs Buccaneers. Dagger: John Kuhn 2 yard TD run, Packers up 28-19, .95WP with 7:42 left in 4^th quarter. Garbage tally:

Drive 1: 7 yards
Rodgers throws INT
Drive 2: 50 yards, 7 points
Nelson TD
Williams INT
Packers Missed field goal
Drive 3: 23 yards
Ballgame

Week 12 vs Lions. Dagger: Rodgers 65 yard TD to James Jones, Packers up 21-0, .98WP with 5:25 left in 3^rd quarter. Suh was ejected on the touchdown drive before this when the Packers went up 14-0 and Detroit unraveled. Garbage tally:

Drive 1: 5 yards
Charles Woodson INT
Packers field goal, up 24-0
Drive 2: 72 yards, 8 points
Drive 3: 1 yard
Packers field goal, up 27-8
Drive 4: 79 yards, 7 points
Ballgame

Week 13 vs Giants. No dagger, Packers win 38-35 on the last play of the game.

Week 14 vs Raiders. Dagger: This game’s dagger is entirely subjective. Oakland’s first score happens with around 8 minutes left in the 3^rd quarter, down 34-7. Looking at the WP graph, I’ve designated the dagger after the Packers go up 31-0 in the 2^nd quarter on a Ryan Grant TD run, 7:06 left in the 2^nd quarter, .95WP. Oakland is then held to a four and out and the Packers drive the ball to Oakland’s 4 yard line before Finley drops a ball that’s intercepted in the endzone. Below are garbage tallies for the remaining Oakland drives after the assigned dagger above (omitting the 4 and out).

Drive 1: 66 yards
INT Rob Francois
Packers field goal, up 34-0
Drive 2: 80 yards, 7 points
Packers field goal, up 37-7
Drive 3: Fumble recovered for Walden touchdown, Packers up 43-7
Drive 4: 3 yards
Packers field goal, up 46-7.
Drive 5: 17 yards
Drive 6: 77 yards, 7 points
Drive 7: 22 yards
Ballgame

Week 15 vs Chiefs. No victory, no dagger.

Week 16 vs. Bears. Dagger: Rodgers 7 yard TD to James Jones, Packers up 28-10, with 1:54 left in the 3^rd quarter and .97WP. Garbage tally:

Drive 1: INT Charlie Peprah
Nelson TD, Packers up 35-10, Bears season over.
Drive 2: 67 yards, 8 points
Drive 3: 95 yards, 3 points
Ballgame

Week 17 vs Lions. Game came down to the last play with several lead changes, no dagger.

Omitted from the tallies were opponent’s drives that resulted in no first down or yardage less than ten yards. In a competitive game situation, those are desired outcomes and therefore those unsuccessful drives are not relevant here.

The totals are 1,862 yards and 109 points allowed in garbage time. Subtract those numbers from season totals above and you get 4,723 yards and 250 points surrendered, good for 4^th and 3^rd overall in the league, respectively and similar to last year's totals of 4,945 and 240 (5th and 2nd).

If you take half those totals (931 yards, 54.5 points), assuming opponents are going to gain some yardage in that time, and subtract those from the season totals, the defense would rank 18^th in yards allowed and 5^th in points surrendered.

I also compiled total interceptions and fumbles recovered in this “garbage” time. 9 passes were intercepted when the game was in hand and 2 fumbles were recovered. It’s also important to note that five games (Bears 1, Vikings 1, Lions, Raiders, and Bears 2) had interceptions that occurred right around the dagger. Those show the defense’s contribution in putting those games out of reach.

However, subtracting 11 “garbage” turnovers of players simply ball-hawking would give the team 27 total turnovers, good for 8th in the league. Astoundingly, they’d still be tied for 2nd in the league with 22 INTs. Last year, they recorded 32 turnovers with 24 INTs and 8 fumbles.

Meanwhile, the Packers put up 73 points in garbage time, approximately 13% of the 560 they produced all season. Above, I made a derogatory remark about the Saints blowing teams away and inflating stats. A quick look at late game WPs in a few memorable games showed the Saints produced 76 garbage points of their season total 547 in just 4 games, most notably scoring 31 in the second half against the Colts.

All of this information is most useful in context. The 1,862 post-dagger yards allowed are 28.7% of all yards allowed by the Packers over the course of the season, while the 109 points are 30.4% of the total points allowed on the year. Now, if these totals were achieved in roughly 30% of the opposition’s time holding the ball, this entire exercise would be meaningless as the garbage time touchdowns would be no more or less informative than normal scores. However, opponents held the ball for a total of 472 minutes and 16 seconds (to Green Bay’s 487:44), of which 105:18 were considered to be post-dagger, totaling just 22.2% of the total TOP for Packer opponents. In 22% of possession time, opponents gained almost 29% of their yards and scored over 30% of their points. That, my friends, is statistically significant

If we normalize the post-dagger yardage and points to pre-dagger totals, the defense would have allowed 6,074 yards and 322 points the Packers are 29th in yards and 9th in points. Further, if you normalize the Detroit offensive outburst, which was itself played entirely post-dagger, we’re looking at 5,775 yards and 291 points, good for 23rd and 5th, respectively.

23rd and 5th. The yardage makes sense because most teams aren’t going be able to run the ball enough to keep up with Rodgers and his henchmen, so they need to employ long-yardage pass plays. 5th is more in line with last year’s team that finished 2nd in points allowed.

Sure, this type of analysis could be done for every team, but an offensive juggernaut that puts teams away early and wins 15 of its 16 games affords its team the fortunate situation where the maximum effort is not always required of its defense. Taking into consideration the mathematical analysis above and remembering that 21/22 opening day starters (Nick Collins) are expected to play in Sunday's Divisional Playoff game (compared to the 10 would-be starters on IR last year), the coaches and defense are deserving of praise for a job well done.

Now it’s time to determine whether maximum effort can be expended when the stakes have been raised.

(Credit due to BrewCityBub for TOP and normalization calculations and contributions)

Packers 45, Lions 41

2012-01-02T12:18:00.000-06:00

Burnt Ends

2011-12-19T18:10:00.002-06:00

I recommend a diet consisting strictly of fruit, Fiber One, and V8 for the next week or so.

Packers 46 Raiders 16

2011-12-14T19:56:00.000-06:00

Sorry Mr Davis, your Jedi Mind tricks are no match for the Death Star

Packers Face Toughest Test to Date

2011-12-06T13:16:00.006-06:00

The Death Star showed off its pinpoint accuracy during the final 58 seconds of Sunday's game.

Suh claims Goodell set him up, but everybody knows Donkey Kong is the one that gets stuck with bananas.

Death Star Descends Upon Detroit

2011-11-28T14:20:00.006-06:00

The Death Star and Blacks: Black on the outside, concentrated, rust-belt-city-destroying power on the inside

No wonder Schwartz acts like an aggrieved lowlife once given a position of power.

I don't think we'll be winning the "Least Racist Blog on the Internet" award this year.

Mazel Tov!

2011-11-22T16:31:00.003-06:00

Cubs Hire Dale Sveum

2011-11-17T13:48:00.000-06:00

Week 10 Recap: As if millions of voices cried out in terror and were suddenly silenced

2011-11-16T11:32:00.003-06:00

Princess Leia told us that pecker petter Favre was in there!

Nordic rape whistles. ohh OHHHHHHHHHH!!! Aaron Rodgers is raping the shit out of us!

Kotsay signs with San Diego

2011-11-15T16:21:00.001-06:00

Go fuck yourself, Kotsay.

Packers 45, Chargers 38

2011-11-09T15:03:00.000-06:00

Welp, who's ready for Rodgers to start getting the Favre treatment from the media?

2011 Hendy Award Winner - Yuniesky Betancourt

2011-11-07T09:03:00.004-06:00

Thanks to everyone for participating again this year. We definitely did our part and ultimately gave the award to the player who was most deserving. I look forward to a horribly disappointing season next year and bringing the hate out again next October. Enjoy the off-season!

Yuni B did not strike out in the Hendies.

2011 Hendies - The Feces Four

2011-11-01T08:54:00.008-05:00

Kinney Division Champion

Casey McGehee

Franklin Division Champion

Wil Nieves

Bando Division Champion

Yuniesky Betancourt

Taylor Division Champion

Shaun Marcum

Per usual, we are going to vote in round robin format. Each finalist will face off against everyone else one time. If there's a tie, we go to the head-to-head results between the two players that are tied. If they're still tied like last year, we go to the usual "state your hate" tiebreaker.

Matchups:

McGehee v. Nieves

McGehee v. Betancourt

McGehee v. Marcum

Nieves v. Betancourt

Nieves v. Marcum

Betancourt v. Marcum

Have fun and get some anger out!

Hendies Headlines

2011-11-01T08:50:00.003-05:00

Kotsay Can't Get Enough Takers

The improbable upset of Mark Kotsay has occurred. Shaun Marcum is in the Feces Four.

Hendies Headlines

2011-10-31T16:41:00.003-05:00

Hart Lagging Behind Field

With voting continuing in the Excrement Eight, it looks like Corey Hart has run out of gas. Your Feces Four is almost set.

2011 Hendies - The Excrement Eight

2011-10-27T14:45:00.004-05:00

Daniel Ray Herrera Came Up Short in the Sewer Sixteen

No real upsets last round. Here are your matchups to determine who'll be facing off in the Feces Four.

Kinney Division:

1. C. McGehee
7. J. Wilson

Franklin Division

1. W. Nieves
11. C. Hart

Bando Division

8. Y. Betancourt
6. Z. Braddock

Taylor Division

8. M. Kotsay
11. S. Marcum

I don't know for sure why Herrera is throwing right-handed, but I think he decided it's better to just throw from the right side rather than throw a screwball, a pitch that hasn't existed in baseball for 40 years for a reason. I guess that's the Cinderella story.

2011 Hendies - The Sewer Sixteen

2011-10-25T09:19:00.002-05:00

Preseason Favorite, Carlos Gomez, Disappointed Yet Again

We are down to sixteen. Here are the matchups:

Kinney Division:

1. C. McGehee
5. L. Schafer

7. J. Wilson
6. E. De La Cruz

Franklin Division

1. W. Nieves
5. M. Fiers

2. D.R. Herrera
11. C. Hart

Bando Division

8. Y. Betancourt
5. M. McClendon

2. S. Mitre
6. Z. Braddock

Taylor Division

8. M. Kotsay
12. Z. Greinke

2. M. Gamel
11. S. Marcum

2011 Hendies - The Round of 32 Assholes

2011-10-20T09:46:00.003-05:00

Marcum (above) Made a Statement in Round One

Here are your matchups for Round 2:

Kinney Division:

8. K. Loe
1. C. McGehee

5. L. Schafer
4. T. Green

7. J. Wilson
2. F. Lopez

6. E. De La Cruz
3. J. Reed

Franklin Division

1. W. Nieves
9. L. Hawkins

5. M. Fiers
4. M. Rivera

2. D.R. Herrera
10. N. Morgan

3. M. Stetter
11. C. Hart

Bando Division

8. Y. Betancourt
1. C. Counsell

5. M. McClendon
4. E. Ferris

7. T. Saito
2. S. Mitre

6. Z. Braddock
3. M. DiFelice

Taylor Division

8. M. Kotsay
1. E. Almonte

4. M. Maldonado
12. Z. Grienke

7. C. Gomez
2. M. Gamel

3. J. Carroll
11. S. Marcum

Introducing Your 2011 Hendy Awards!

2011-10-17T09:58:00.006-05:00

We begin this baseball offseason as we do every one, by declaring our most hated Brewer. You should all know the rules by now. If you don't, go back and look at previous years' voting. Or just look in the comments and see how we're doing it.

The Brewers did only one thing right this season - they played exactly 48 players, which gives us an even player pool to have this tournament style hate-fest.

Here are the brackets:

Seed Divisions

Kinney Franklin Bando Taylor

1 C. McGehee W. Nieves C. Counsell E. Almonte
8 K. Loe J. Hairston Y. Betancourt M. Kotsay
9 J. Kottaras L. Hawkins F. Rodriguez M. Estrada

4 T. Green M. Rivera E. Farris M. Maldonado
5 L. Schafer M. Fiers M. McClendon B. Kintzler
12 R. Braun P. Fielder Y. Gallardo Z. Grienke

2 F. Lopez D.R. Herrera S. Mitre M. Gamel
7 J. Wilson T. Dillard T. Saito C. Gomez
10 R. Wolf N. Morgan J. Axford J. Lucroy

3 J. Reed M. Stetter M. DiFelice B. Carroll
6 E. De La Cruz S. Green Z. Braddock B. Boggs
11 C. Narveson C. Hart R. Weeks S. Marcum

16 players will receive a bye in the first round. All 1-4 seeds get to rest up in Round 1.

The first-round matchups we will be voting on are as follows:

Kinney Division:

8. K. Loe
9. J. Kottaras

5. L. Schafer
12. R. Braun

7. J. Wilson
10. R. Wolf

6. E. De La Cruz
11. C. Narveson

Franklin Division

8. J. Hairston
9. L. Hawkins

5. M. Fiers
12. P. Fielder

7. T. Dillard
10. N. Morgan

6. S. Green
11. C. Hart

Bando Division

8. Y. Betancourt
9. F. Rodriguez

5. M. McClendon
12. Y. Gallardo

7. T. Saito
10. J. Axford

6. Z. Braddock
11. R. Weeks

Taylor Division

8. M. Kotsay
9. M. Estrada

5. B. Kintzler
12. Z. Grienke

7. C. Gomez
10. J. Lucroy

6. B. Boggs
11. S. Marcum

Holliday Homers, but Brewers Take Game 4

2011-10-14T09:24:00.004-05:00

It's starting to get interesting. Discuss Brewers postseason here.

I'll get it started by introducing our first topic in the comment section...will Mark Kockspray start at third base for the Brewers tonight in St. Louis?

Packers 49, Broncos 23

2011-10-04T12:48:00.001-05:00

Rodgers' stats for the year... 1,325 yards (2nd), 9.4 yards per attempt (2nd), 331 YPG (4th), 12 TDs (2nd) and 124.6 QB rating (1st by a significant margin) all with 2 rushing TDs (the most on the Packers) on a 4-0 team. He's running away with the MVP four games in.

Clearly captain neckbeard pipecleaner arm and the Broncos were no match for the league's best offense.

Also, since Brady Quinn and AJ Hawk were playing against each other again, television viewers were again subjected to seeing their centaur sister and wife respectively, Laura Quinn Hawk (pictured above).

The Packers roll down to Atlanta to salt the remains of the scorched Superdome earth this Sunday night.

The Curse of Expectations

2011-09-30T15:53:00.002-05:00

I now understand why Billy Beane doesn't watch A's games.

The whole mess we're in today starts in summer 2002. I was 19 and home for the summer between my freshman and sophmore years of college. I had spent most of the previous few summers watching and attending Brewers game, making the most of an ability to drink alcohol underage with little restriction. Perhaps the best part of the games were that we took joy in the Brewers misery. Condescendy still has pictures of the record for team strikeouts that stood until 2010 (another reason to cheer against the Diamondbacks). Jose Hernandez made a couple attempts at the individual record. and later in that summer, Brewers baseball reached its nadir, with the on-the-mound fight between Jerry Royster and Mike De Jean.

Two months prior to that fight, the Brewers began a major course correction. Their approach to the draft under Jack Zdureincik is the singular reason the Brewers are in the playoffs today, and while he had some success prior to 2002 - Hardy, Sheets, Hart - he amassed talent and built his reputation as the best drafting scouting director of the decade (per SI) beginning with the selection of Fielder in 2002. The pick was ridiculed in Moneyball (too fat for the A's!), but was the first in a string of top flight selections that directly or indirectly produced the rest of the roster (Weeks, Braun, Gallardo, LaPorta, Lawrie, Jefress, Odorizzi) and the catalyst for the organization's revival. With that success, everything changed.

It took a few years to get things humming, but in reaching the 2008 playoffs, on the back of the repeated acquisition of premium talent through the draft, the Brewers erased 25 years of futility. In doing so they exhausted most of their resources and expended all of their energy. The accomplishment in 2008 was not winning the World Series, it was merely having a date to the dance.

Three years later, following the gutting of nearly every useful asset in the minors, the core of premium talent secured a return trip to the playoffs, in what is all but certainly Fielder's final season in Milwaukee. The stakes just feel different than in 2008. The team is as healthy as it has been all season. They've managed to identify all of the weak spots in the starting lineup not named Betancourt, and are generally firing on all cylinders. Their opponent in the first round is an overachiever and eminently beatable, particularly compared to the Phillies, who were a legitimate possibility as recently as Wednesday evening. In short, getting a date to the dance is no longer sufficient, now the Brewers need to get laid.

This is the last year with Fielder. Next year three pitching contracts come off the books. At best, in 2013 Greinke signs another deal, Jungmann is a serviceable 4th/5th type and Estrada holds his own. At best. In reality the team won't have the pitching to win more than 75 games and won't have the farm system to fill in the gaps. It's this year, and maybe next, to see a successful (ie championship) team in Milwaukee. This is the point at which hard realities set in.

We've all been able to watch the playoffs for years with the keen understanding that each team has somewhere between a 40% and 60% chance of winning any given playoff series, rendering their odds of winning a championship a veritable crap shoot. Fine when you're antiseptically watching other teams, not fine when you've only got one or two cracks to get your dick wet. My point, in all of this (and I realize this is random rambling, I just can't focus on work and wanted to save my observations for posterity) is that I'm really not going to be able to enjoy any of these games because the expectations are too high. I'm going to take losses personally. This isn't just a bird in the hand. There don't appear to be any birds in an entire field of bushes. If they get swept out this week it's entirely plausible I'll never see a Brewers World Series. I get drunk at Notre Dame games because I can't stomach how bad the team is. I'll be getting drunk this weekend because I can't stomach the thought of fully appreciating the gravity of each loss. Not to worry, though. I'm sure the Brewers will be chasing some record for futility in 2013, and I can finally enjoy going to games again.

2011 MLB Postseason Predictions

2011-09-29T15:43:00.000-05:00

Tigers at Yankees

Rays at Rangers

Diamondbacks at Brewers

Cardinals at Phillies

Not Alderaan!

2011-09-26T08:02:00.003-05:00

Panthers, Newton Prepare for Packers

2011-09-16T11:08:00.003-05:00

Carolina Planning to Start Rookie, Undrafted RT

With Panthers' starting RT Jeff Otah out with a concussion, Carolina will start undrafted rookie, Byron Bell to anchor the right side of its offensive line. Bell has been described as one who "plays tall" and "lacks recovery speed." Making matters more complicated for Newton and the Panthers, they are without starting RG Geoff Schwartz, who is out for the season.

Mike McCarthy and the Packers have not publicly stated whether the defense will attempt to exploit Carolina's sudden potential weakness on the right side of its line. When reached for comment, Clay Matthews III's agent stated, "Clay obviously cannot disclose what the plans are at this point, and he cannot speak right now because he is sharpening his penis."

Let's Not Lose Sight of What Really Matters

2011-09-15T09:34:00.004-05:00

And this is really what baseball is all about.

This guy reminds me quite a bit of this Milwaukee legend:

We haven't had a Brewers post in quite a while. I can't figure out why people are so down on the team right now. The Brewers have a 5.5 game lead with 12.5 games left. It would take an epic collapse to miss the playoffs. I'm not worried. Just because the offense has staggered for over a week does not mean anything. The Brewers' offense has been up and down all season. If anything, we can take the current struggles as a sign that they will be peaking in two weeks when games matter a lot more.

I admit I am biased that I want the Brewers to finish behind the Diamondbacks. But I can't figure out why fans are so desperate for the Brewers to have home field advantage and play the Braves in the first round instead of the Phillies. First, when does home field advantage matter? Only when a series goes to its final game. It does not matter if a series ends early, even if the team played more games on the road than at home in a series ending in 3 or 5 games. Most series do not go to a final game, even 5-game series. And we likely are only talking about one series because the Brewers will finish ahead of the Braves no matter what and behind the Phillies no matter what. Further, I think the recent slump at home helps show that the Brewers' home/road split was not sustainable. In reality, the Brewers are better at home but not hugely better at home. So we are talking about a small advantage that home field may bring, but the chances of that advantage to come into play are still below 50%. So we should not be so concerned about home field advantage.

Second, people are terrified to play the Phillies in the first round. Why? The Phillies admittedly are the best team in the National League. But if you think they are so great, then you have to assume you'd play them in the NLCS, right? The reality is that the Phillies have won only 7% more often than the Brewers this year. That is a significant difference, but consider that that is over 150 games. Take any 5 game sample, and the Phillies have only slightly better than a 7% advantage to beat the Brewers. The more games that you play in a series, the more likely it is that the Phillies win. In an infinite game series, the Phillies win every time. In a one-game series, the Phillies win only 53.5% of the time. Of course, if the Brewers do not play the Phillies in the first round, perhaps they get lucky and the Diamondbacks beat the Phillies. But, if that's the case, then the Brewers certainly could have beaten the Phillies. So, what are we really worried about?

I guess I'm still married to the "playoffs are a crapshoot" notion. I don't care how the Brewers get in, I just am happy if they get in. And right now, despite slipping a lot in the standings against the Cardinals over the last two weeks, I'm very confident they will be in the playoffs.

But before you start thinking the Brewers don't piss me off, I am not going to forgive the Brewers when they put a shitty postseason roster together. It is unforgivable to keep Kotsay or Wilson on the roster given the better options available. The only way those guys make the roster is if Hairston or Green don't make it (there's no way Counsell or Betancourt get left off). That's not okay. And it is unforgivable to continue to play Betancourt at shortstop every game and to have him starting in the playoffs. The options to replace him aren't great, but my God are they better than him. The Brewers need to use the next two weeks to get Hairston prepped at short.

Packers 42 Saints 34

2011-09-13T14:33:00.000-05:00

FOOOOOOOOOOTBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAL!

The 2011 NFL season is here and started as many would have hoped, with a planet-eviscerating bang. The Packers offense looked sharp and the defense looked, well, like most defenses that have to try to stop Drew Brees.

Bob McGinn noted some important stats from the game that I thought I'd relay. The wide-receiver snaps-played breakdown was...

Jennings - 52

Finley - 51 (29 isolated or lined up wide, 13 in-line, 9 in backfield/wing)

Driver - 44

Nelson -27

Jones - 19

Cobb - 7

Obviously one game is a very small sample size, but it gives you an idea as to the initial depth chart ranks for each as these are snaps played, not targets.

Rodgers was blitzed about 60% of the time and ran from the shotgun 61% of the time, not coming even close to throwing an interception. Bulaga and Sitton didn't allow a QB pressure, much less a sack all night despite the heavy blitz percentages. It seems like the right side of the offensive line is going to be unbelievably solid for years to come.

Starks played 43 snaps to Grant's 16. I wonder who's going to be the starting running back the rest of the season?

The defense was a mess, but Raji played 92% of the snaps (70 of 76) all but four defensive snaps were played in the two defensive lineman "nickel" formation. They played 1 down of 3-4 and 3 downs of the "hippo" 4-4 with Howie Greene.

Jarius Wynn clearly saw more time (32 plays) than CJ Wilson (6). Wynn played well and we'll probably continue to see more of him if Mike Neal keeps up his Justin Harrell impersonation. Wynn, Walden, and Hawk/Bush combined for the 3 sacks.

Matthews was assigned one blocker 23 times, double-teamed 13 times, dropped into coverage 9 times and ran stunts 6 times in all 51 of Brees' dropbacks. Again, Mike Neal needs to get healthy or Matthews will continue to create sacks for other players by drawing the opposing offense's left tackle or regular double teams. Matthews was a fucking terror against Mike Vick twice last year, so I think he'll thrive in next week's matchup against the poor man's Eagles in Carolina.

Beyond that, Morgan Burnett lead the team with 14 tackles, Bishop wasn't far behind with 12.

Injury reports aren't due until tomorrow so we'll hear then as to the extent of Williams' shoulder injury, but initial reports were that it was nothing terribly serious.

2011 Packers Defense Preview

2011-08-30T13:27:00.008-05:00

(click to enlarge)

Whereas the offense preview likely left most of you with a boner that’d rival a horny teenager Bub discovering Viagra for the first time, the defense preview will probably only hit the “honeymoon” boner status.

D-line: BJ Raji was easily the most underrated player on the Packers last year right up until we heard the call, “Hanie throws it over the middle, intercepted! BJ Raji… in the endzone for the touchdown!”

It was as if God (Capers) had called down from above the perfect gift (play) that fell into his lap (incompetent Bears’ quarterback throw) that resulted in a game-winning, Super Bowl birth-confirming interception for a touchdown. With that, Raj received all of the praise that comes along with such a high profile play. Basically what I’m saying is Raji’s interception/TD was pure luck that garnered him the national attention and praise he deserved after last season.

The numbers to back up such claims? Raj played 85% of the snaps in 2010 (1,070 of 1,259), the most by a Packers d-lineman in a single season in over a decade. He led the d-line in tackles for losses (4.5), batted balls (3), and tied for sacks (7.5), combining with that 6 knock-downs and 19.5 hurries. For a guy who’s listed at 337, those numbers are simply incredible. He should have been a pro-bowler, but as previously stated, karma eventually did repay the Freezer.

All that said, 2011 should bode well for Raji. Less will seemingly be more for Raji, even in Cullen Jenkins’ absence. I’d like to think a 337 pound guy will be more effective when playing only, say 75% of snaps. Don’t forget that last year, Jenkins and Pickett probably didn’t play a full 16 games at 100% between them, after suffering a broken hand and severe, high ankle sprains. A healthy d-line rotation will hopefully get BJ off the field more, allowing him to be better rested and more effective when he plays. This will be his third year under Capers’ system, he’s going to want a new contract soon. He should go ahead and book his flight to Hawaii already.

Mike Neal right now smacks of Justin Harrell light. Not as high profile of a pick, not as serious of an injury history (yet) but clearly plenty of promise shown hindered by injury. His development and performance this year is probably the most crucial of any player on the defense.

A healthy, effective Neal and the d-line is better than it was last year. He’s 295 and was called the team’s best d-line pass rusher in last year’s camp. Reports say he won’t fully recover from his shoulder surgery until October, but he should be well enough to play week 1. If he can avoid the Harrell injury bug, he should really boost the line’s production. The team let Cullen Jenkins walk and didn’t offer him anything after he couldn’t negotiate a blockbuster deal with Washington. Philly definitely got him a discount the Packers could have afforded, but they still opted not to sign him. I’d chalk that up to both his age and the team’s confidence in Neal. Neal’s a gym rat who sleeps in a hyperbaric chamber every night. The guy eats, sleeps and dreams football. Pray he’s healthy.

Ryan Pickett is one of two players on the defense signed through free agency that isn’t pulling in the league minimum. He led the defensive line in tackles per snap played last year and is bringing the team’s average age way up at 31. At 340 lbs, he was moved from DT to LE last year and it did nothing to hinder his production. Most teams probably wish they had this guy on their line.

The Journal Sentinel did a puff piece on Howard Green, who is also wrecking the team’s average age (32), and how he’s living in a hotel in Green Bay until he makes the team. He’s been cut 10 times already in his career, but leave it to Capers to find use for all 360 lbs of him. Word is he’s in camp in great shape, and he can go ahead and buy a house in Green Bay now because he’s going to make the team. He’ll work a yeoman’s job on the d-line, for sure, but it’s a role the team desperate needs filled to give other guys (Raji) a breather. You’ll see him again in 4-4 fronts, eating up blocks and making tackles, he had the second most tackles per snap last year for the guys in the trenches.

CJ Wilson should see more playing time this year as he’s not buried behind both Jenkins and Neal. He’s a 7th round draft pick who got his weight up to around 300 without sacrificing any speed in the process. We’ll see a lot of him if something happens to Neal, the result of that extra PT remains to be seen.

Jarius Wynn will probably get the 6th and final d-line spot on the active roster. He was a 6th round draft pick out of Georgia and saw 160 some snaps last year compared to 75 a year ago. He’s another end rusher, but clocks in on the lighter side around 290 lbs. What’s interesting about Wynn and Wilson are that they’re both young projects who’re being slowly weaned into games. Both are 24 and are slowly being developed in camp each year. That’s the luxury of having such a good, deep defense. Both will be suitable replacements in the event of 2010-esque problems.

Lawrence Guy, Eli Joseph, Jay Ross and Chris Donaldson will probably be shown the door to the practice squad, but there’s a likelihood that a non-concussed Guy could prove something before Saturday’s final cut. If not, it’s a waste of a draft pick even this blogger could see ahead of time.

Linebackers: Leroy Butler came right out and said it on Milwaukee morning radio a few weeks ago: Clay Matthews doesn’t like to practice. Hence the hamstring “issues” that kept him out of the past two camps. For a guy that spends his offseason working out and practicing mix martial arts to get better at football, I’ll go ahead and say he can miss as many practices as he’d like. He played with a broken shin last year and still put up the league’s second highest sack total despite the double teams and depleted depth chart starting around him.

He’s healthier in camp this year and had an even longer period of time due to the lockout this offseason to work out without the bother of “practice.” Needless to say, I can’t wait until he’s let out of his cage.

Opposite Matthews, you’re primarily going to see Walden (Pond). Camp reports are that he’s the best physical specimen of the three competing for the starting job, capable of both the rush and coverage duties associated with the position. He probably needs some time to develop and learn the role, but thankfully he’s surrounded by a team of what will be 3-year starters in their positions. I’d expect him to take his form midseason. Pond was an undrafted FA picked up by the Packers after Dallas let him go. He’s this year’s Sam Shields, the raw talent we hope the coaching staff can turn into a great player.

Zombo broke his shoulder playing a preseason game and made the competition for the position much, much less interesting. I expect him to be PUP’ed (ala Harris and Starks last year), and they’ll likely put off the decision on what to do with him until they have to in week 7. He excels at the pass rush, but not run defense nor coverage. He’s an overrated work in progress. Unfortunately, unlike the d-line, the team doesn’t have much depth at this position to bring him along properly.

Brad Jones, the 7th Rd draft pick out of Colorado that won the starting job opposite of Matthews last year, broke Brett Favre’s foot before joining the IR party. He’s played a lot (394 snaps in ‘09, 292 in ‘10) so it’s a bit of a surprise that he’s not winning this position battle right now. Word is the shoulder that kept him out of games the past two years is a big reason why. If anything, he’ll be good depth at the position.

Beyond those guys, we’ll have some interesting battles for roster spots. Based on camp results, DJ Smith, Vic So’oto and Jamari Lattimore are likely fighting for 2 spots. DJ Smith and So’oto have the highest upside. DJ Smith was the record-setter at Appalachian State who was overlooked because he’s short. The guy was a D2 monster drafted in round 6 this year. So’oto is the preason success story, another physical specimen we also want to succeed. He’s an undrafted FA this year out of BYU who runs a 4.68, and did 35 bench reps at 6’3” 260. Thems Clay Matthews numbers at the same height, with 20 lbs more to him. Lattimore has shown promise and holds his school’s second highest career sack total, behind none other than Walden. Expect Elmore and the rest to be shown the door, another wasted draft pick.

Francois will back up Hawk and Bishop on the interior. Francois has bounced around the NFC North as an undrafted FA and has been around long enough to have the position pretty well locked up. Expect both him and DJ Smith to serve as the backups on the inside.

As for Hawk and Bishop, there’s not much more to say. Bishop finished the season second in team tackles (151), just 6 behind Hawk’s 157, despite player 4 fewer games than Hawk. Although he led LBs in missed tackles, he was clearly the best interior blitz option.

Hawk hasn’t missed a game since being drafted, hence the huge contract. He’s slow and seemingly a run specialist, but he improved his coverage numbers once he took over as a starter again last year, not allowing a TD in coverage after week 5. He’s been downright miserable in pass rush. These two are probably overpaid, but healthy and moderately effective will certainly provide the glue necessary to keep the defense together.

CBs: Prepare your boners. Green Bay kept 6 last year and will probably do that again. Woodson, Williams, Shields, Bush, Davon House, and probably Josh Gordy.

Many of you might be concerned about Tramon Williams’ big contract. You know, management patting themselves on the back for finding an undrafted CB turned Pro Bowler, and paying out the ass after seemingly one season of production. Welp, ease your concerns, Football Outsiders has numerical reassurance for you. He ranked 4th in the league in pass success rate (4 percentage points behind Revis at 66%) and 9th in yards per pass allowed (5.5 yards).

Those two statistics cover the scope of performance for a d-back in football much like OPS would for a batter in baseball: he forces a high rate of incomplete passes when thrown to AND doesn’t allow much yardage when those passes are completed. Include his playoff numbers, you know, two interceptions that basically won the team two playoff games and he undoubtedly ranks highers. Those are just secondary statistics. Other more significant ones to note? He allowed only six plays of more than 20 yards and gave up ONE touchdown pass all of last season. Basically, he’s an elite player and they extended his deal below market value. Now say a “Glory Be…” in gratitude for Thompson.

Charles Woodson and Sam Shield’s production will be directly related this season. The more effective Shields is, the better Woodson is. Woodson has another two or so magical years of being essentially a coach in a player’s body. He makes great decisions, is always around the ball and is one of few players in the league who legitimately looks at his role on the defense as an opportunity to score points for his team. He’ll be listed as a starting CB, but really will be a starting headache for opposing QBs. He’ll blitz a lot, he’s as sure a tackler as the secondary has (led the team in 5 forced fumbles), he can keep up with teams’ #2 receivers. Hell, he broke his collarbone in the Super Bowl running stride for stride with one of the league’s fastest receivers in Mike Wallace. Of course, knowing Chuck, he broke up the pass before breaking his collarbone.

Sam Shields is primed for the sophomore slump, but if he’s productive, it’ll enable Woodson to just be where the ball is on the field. Shields is probably the fastest on the team, as shown by the fact he committed one penalty all of last season. He can use his speed to make up for mistakes. That said, he gave up 10 20+ yard plays last year and 4 TDs. He needs more time learning the position because 2011 will be his third year playing CB.

Davon House runs a 4.41 40, good for top 15 in this year’s draft class. He was a four year starter who set a school record for downs played at New Mexico State and scored a 20 on his Wonderlic. He impressed in camp early before being injured, but we definitely want him to succeed because…

It keeps Jarrett Bush off the field. Yeah, we’re digging into dime backs at this point, but Bush is clearly the worst. He’s a great special-teamer we’d love to bump one more spot down in the depth chart. He’s looked deplorable in pass coverage this preseason. Shocking.

Josh Gordy is the physically-talented undrafted project at corner this season. He runs a 4.42 and has a huge vertical. He showed versatility in the Cleveland preseason game (a sack and an interception) that will probably fit in well with Capers system. Pat Lee has been more disappointing than a Jewish guy’s penis after a solid postseason run. Brandian Ross will be a casualty of cuts, too.

Safties. Pretty cut and dried. Collins, Burnett, Peprah and Anthony Levine.

Nick Collins, despite being a Pro Bowler, is a pretty underrated player at his position. Right now, he’s probably better than Ed Reed is, the Packers could probably start Steve at SS as long as Collins is on the field. He instructs, reads the ball well and hits hard.

Burnett has as much promise as any early round draft pick on the roster and showed as much on the field last year. Remember, TT traded UP to get him. Peprah filled in very well for Burnett by starting the last 16 games of the (post)season. He was an undrafted FA out of Alabama who signed a modest two year extension this year. Levine will get the job over Underwood’s headaches. He’s another undrafted practice squad guy with an impressive camp. Underwood had troubles off the field and seemingly on, when trying to transition from CB to SS. He’s the one who was unable to stay academically eligible at Ohio State under Tressel. I’d call that too many character issues…

And there you have it, the summation is that the defense is full of raw, undrafted young depth with super-talented veterans filling in the key positions around them. Given Capers’ complex schemes and some tough passing offenses on the schedule, they’re sure to endure headaches this season, but the on-field product, if healthy, will be as good or better than last year. If they experience half of last year’s injuries, they’ll be worse.

This preseason, the only managerial complaint I have is not achieving the full value of players and draft picks. There isn't much room for Matt Flynn with a healthy Rodgers, but he's valuable to other teams, I hope they move him if they can, they can probably get a decent draft pick for him. Same goes for the draft picks this year they're going to cut (Guy, Elmore, etc...). The problem will be worse next year if the team is successful and healthy. They'll have 7 draft picks, plus another 3 compensatory (untradeable ones) in 2012 all while carrying one of the youngest rosters in the league. Rather than draft the aforementioned shit, trade later round picks for more early round ones. With TT still in control going forward, the Packers will just need more quality, not quantity in future drafts.

Brewers Fans Breathe Sigh of Relief - Astros Eliminated

2011-08-23T16:20:00.003-05:00

34 and 33. That's tough. Sorry Astros. I'm sure next year will be just as soul crushing for you, if that's any consolation. Thanks for reminding us what it was like to be a Brewers fan 10 years ago!

Brewers Turn 4-6-3-2 Triple Play, 4 Double Plays in One Game

2011-08-16T16:07:00.000-05:00

2011 Preseason Packers Offense Preview

2011-08-12T15:37:00.002-05:00

QB: If you want more proof of Ted Thompson’s genius, look no further than the team’s present QB situation. Aaron Rodgers is the reigning Super Bowl Champion/MVP and projected to be a top 10 overall fantasy player this season. Why is Thompson a genius? Because presently 14 quarterbacks in the league are getting paid more than Rodgers, and he’s signed through 2014. While a restructure is certainly due in the future, just revel in that magnificence for a moment.

Flynn’s contract is up at the end of this season and McCarthy is pushing hard to carry Graham Harrell on the active roster probably to keep the options for Flynn open.

While the team probably won’t win the Super Bowl with a hurt Rodgers, it’s evidently clear the team can still make the playoffs were he to suffer a season-ending injury with Flynn filling in under center. Think Matt Cassell and the Patriots going 11-5 in 2008 (yes, I know they didn’t make the postseason that year).

Flynn is better that probably 1/3 of the league’s starters as it is. Given his performance against New England, he could very likely command a decent contract in 2012 FA (probably a 4th-5th round compensatory draft pick for the Packers) or be traded before the deadline for no less than a 3rd round pick if Rodgers and the offensive line stay healthy. Remember, Flynn won a National Championship under center in college and was named the MVP of that game.

RB: James Starks will win the lion’s share of carries by the end of the year if he’s healthy. The proof is in the tape: he looks more explosive and shifty that Ryan Grant. Oh yeah, he’s also younger (25 vs 28) and slightly bigger. He was projected to be a 2-3rd round pick before getting hurt his senior year, and fell all the way to the 6th round. Even with the lockout, he’s already seen more practice time/reps than he did last season, which should only make him better. Also remember, when ready to come off the PUP list, the Packers gave HIM the roster spot over Al Harris. That decision has already paid off and is evidence that the team clearly sees a ton of potential in him.

The tandem in the backfield, if healthy, should make the offense downright deadly. Brandon Jackson’s contract with the Browns might net the Packers a late round compensatory pick and they won’t miss much with Alex Green filling in as the 3rd down back. He’s also bigger than Jackson and because Hawaii ran a spread offense, he’s essentially played the 3rd down role his entire college career.

FB: John Kuhn’s contract was easily the worst thing the Packers did this offseason. Why? Because they have the deepest offense in the entire league. Paying $7.5M over 3 years for a fucking fullback just so fans can howl “Kuuuuhn” in the stadium and successfully scare away the remaining four black residents in Green Bay? What the fuck?

This offense has two stellar RBs, a bonafide 3rd down back, arguably the league’s best TE backed up by three very talented role players and an offensive line that’s likely going to be starting 3 potential left tackles week 1. That’s like putting three short stops in the infield defensively.

One would logically think the Packers, of all offenses, could easily absorb the role Kuhn played with the talent they already have. Instead, a team normally dormant during free agency signed a FB to one of the highest contracts in the league at his position. Simply mind boggling.

OL: As stated earlier, the line is deep and good. Don’t let that fool you into thinking that Chad Clifton is not the lynchpin of this unit, however. Case and point: the NFC Championship. Clifton leaves with a stinger, Peppers eats Lang’s lunch on the field and delivers an almost career-ending blow to Rodgers’ head that clearly scrambled his brains and playing ability for the rest of that game. If Chad Clifton stays healthy and moderately effective, consider these guys one of the league’s best units.

Josh Sitton and My Morning Jacket's Jim James

If not, expect the offensive line to experience a milder version of the woes seen in the first seven games of 2009. Sitton is an All Pro, and along with Wells, their abilities and experience will hold down the line’s interior spots wonderfully. Bulaga struggled at times last year at right tackle, and they’ll piece in one of TJ Lang or Sherrod at the LG spot. Lang is more experienced and knowledgeable of the offense and Sherrod is clearly the better athlete. He’s bigger, faster and has a larger wingspan. He’s also pretty smart. Sherrod will probably get the starting LG job over Lang before long. Lang has been underwhelming to date in his game appearances, but isn’t a bad back-up to have starting behind an under-employed first round draft pick.

Pay attention to Marshall Newhouse in the preseason, he’s a talented, previously injury plagued guy who could find some playing time at tackle in the event of a Clifton/Bulaga injury. Nick McDonald and Caleb Schlauderhaff seem like great back-ups for the guards. Schlauderhaff started at LG for four years for Utah and scored a 28 on his Wonderlic after being drafted in this year’s 6th round.

TE: If I could guess, this year the Packers will give 4 roster spots to TEs and carry only 2 FBs. Finley, Quarless, DJ Williams and Crabtree will likely assume those spots, and obviously Kuhn and Johnson (the seemingly more healthy option) will be the two FBs. Remember they carried 3 of each on last year’s active roster, mainly for versatility and special teams purposes.

The Packers are clearly in “wait and see” mode with Finley. If Kuhn can command a deal just by being a fan favorite, imagine what Finley’s much-discussed potential coming to fruition could do for him. The Packers wisely aren’t jumping the gun on a contract, but likely will if Finley stays healthy and effective through the first 4-8 games of the season. They have the money to sign him, there’s simply no real need to do so just yet.

DJ Williams already seems better than Quarless with his great hands and route running ability. I’d imagine they’ll part ways with Quarless soon enough, but keep him on at least this year. Quarless has the shitty kind of character issues/attitude that will hinder his production, whereas DJ Williams has the feel-good, overlooked late draft pick vibe already. Yes, that’s a lot of unproven drivel, but DJ Williams was a First Team all American TE in the SEC. Crabtree is a special teams staple, he’ll stay and likely inhabit position #4 on the TE depth chart.

K: Mason Crosby just received a long, market value (a seemingly high 5 years, $3M per) contract to be a below average kicker with a strong leg. He’ll benefit kicking off from the 35 this year, but do with that what you will.

WR: The mere thought of this group replaces the necessity for Viagra for Wisconsinites. I gave him a lot of shit, but they signed James Jones to an absolute steal of a $3.2 M/year over 3 years deal. Jordy Nelson is quickly entering his prime, and will put the team in an awkward contract decision at the end of the year when he becomes a free agent. Clearly he’s good, they’ll just have to evaluate finances and whether he’s worth his market value over keeping Driver. Remember, he was the leading receiver for yardage in the Super Bowl.

Randall Cobb is too talented, versatile and smart to keep off the field despite this depth. Remember, he can be lined up in the backfield just to fuck with the more simplistic defenses the team faces. His special teams contributions will be tough to gauge because I have little faith that Slocum’s unit will be able to execute without committing penalties and stupid mistakes, but I think we’re all elated that our starting CB will no longer have to return punts. Nick Fairley also called him the toughest guy to tackle in college. He also set an SEC record for all-purpose yards in a single season.

The team will likely have a potentially ugly parting of ways with Donald Driver soon, but he’s still the most sure-handed gamer of the group. He was prone to injuries last year and his use will likely decrease greatly this year as a result, but I have no doubt he’ll thrive in a more limited slot role. Fewer snaps against nickel and dime backs ought to squeeze a year or two more out of him. Oh yeah, and the only problem Greg Jennings will present for the team is opening his mouth when he doesn’t get the ball thrown to him enough. That’s all the more I’ll say about a top 5 WR in the league last year.

To further put things in perspective, the Packers will be able to roll out a 4 WR set of Jennings (RD 2, 27), Nelson (RD 2, 26) Jones (RD 3, 27) and Cobb (RD 2, 20). Average age of 25, average draft RD of 2, and that’s with the club’s all-time leading receiver standing on the sidelines. Oh, and Jermichael Finley could be on the field at that same time. And the reigning Super Bowl MVP will be throwing to them.

Excuse me while I go rub one out.

The Bucks?

2011-08-09T13:21:00.000-05:00

Ok, NOW This Is Getting Enough Attention: Counsell Earns 1st HIAWDA

2011-08-04T12:15:00.004-05:00

Even Bill Bergen thinks Craig Counsell has been appalling at the dish this year. The month of July did not treat the crafty defensive specialist very well, as he put up this line: 34PA, .000/.030/.030, 1R, 1RBI(albeit a game winner), 0BB/4K

Fortunately Counsell didn't get enough bats to derail this team, as it enjoyed a successful July. And, with the addition of JerHairJr, Craig will probably see the field less and less in the last few months of the season. When Rickie heals (hopefully HGH-aided) and is ready to play, I don't see how Counsell still has a roster spot...

I have never been a Counsell hater, but when you are on the brink of historic futility, you need to be properly rewarded for it. Happy HIAWDA, Craig!

This Isn't Getting the Attention It Deserves

2011-08-02T13:25:00.004-05:00

Craig Counsell is about to set perhaps the most significant record of any player in Milwaukee Brewers franchise history. Yet, you haven't heard much if anything about it. When Craig Counsell makes his next two outs, he will reach 47 straight at bats without a hit, a streak that will best the previous record for a position player set by Bill Bergen in 1909. Bergen is widely considered to be the worst hitting position player of all time. Even though he played in an extreme pitchers era and was a catcher at a time when catchers wore wildly inadequate protective gear, there was no excuse for his career .395 OPS in 11 seasons and 3028 at bats. Those are real numbers, and there is no hyperbole here. Bergen was the worst hitter of all time. And we are talking about 140 years of baseball.

What Counsell has done is nothing short of amazing. 45 consecutive at bats without a hit. 29 games in which he has appeared without a hit. A batting line of 0/45, 1 BB, 5K since June 10th. So much is made of Joe Dimaggio getting a hit in 56 straight games. That's an impressive feat, no doubt. But in my opinion it's hardly as impressive as going 45 (likely will be the record of 46+) at bats without a single hit.

About a decade ago, Voros McCracken published his theory that pitchers have little control over what happens when a hitter makes contact with the baseball and puts the ball into the field of play. That theory has developed over the years, but the theory in its most fundamental form has remained the same - a ball that is put in play will be a hit about 30% of the time. Counsell has only struck out 5 times in those 45 at bats. Conventional wisdom would therefore say he'd have about 12 hits during this stretch. Instead, he has zero.

Is Counsell just supremely unlucky right now? Most statisticians would say yes. I agree with statheads virtually all the time, but in this case I'd say no. Counsell hasn't really even come close to a hit in the at bats I have seen (which is probably about 25-30 of them). He is singlehandedly busting McCracken's theories on balls in play. The theory is not designed to account for players who swing with utter disregard for driving the ball. You would think Counsell has been playing tennis with how he has just tried to serve the ball up off his bat for the opposing second baseman to trot under and catch. When Counsell makes contact, it is as if the ball is heavier than his bat, pushing his bat backwards as the ball is hit. The result is a soft groundout or fly ball that cannot clear the infield. That result has occurred with a consistency that is nearly impossible to replicate. If Counsell does not hit into a catcher's interference in his next two at bats, he will likely set the Major League record for hitless at bats.

Consider the significance of this streak further. We are talking about a hitless streak that has only been done once before - and done by the worst hitter in major league baseball, at the height of the dead-ball era, and done by someone who was probably playing with 5 to 10 injuries at the time that would set any current player on the DL. Then think of the tens of thousands of position players who have played in the Major Leagues. Think of all the rookies who have never seen Major League pitching. Think of all the players playing through significant injuries and slumps. Think of all the defense-first players who hit around the Mendoza line. None of them have done what Counsell has already done and likely will do. A streak made only more amazing by how he did it (40 consecutive balls softly put into play). Now try to think of any significant record held by a Milwaukee Brewer. You won't think of any as remarkable, long-lasting and significant as Craig Counsell's Great 2011 Hitless Streak.

Counsell Celebrates Recent Accomplishments, Prepares to Start Every Day at Second Base

2011-07-29T14:06:00.003-05:00

I'm willing to give Melvin and Co. a little bit of leash on not having a great backup second baseman on the roster. After all, you don't anticipate Weeks to miss games. But what I can't give them any leash on is still having Counsell on the roster to give Roenicke the thought of playing him in Weeks's absence. Why is Counsell still in the Majors?

I've never been a huge critic of Counsell for various reasons, and I admit he's the best defensive infielder on the team. But there's just no way to excuse how bad he is offensively. Further, I don't think any athlete that goes out of his way to make a political statement, as the pinko, unionist Counsell did this offseason, deserves anything but relentless criticism and hate.

Please Brewers, stop doing things wrong. I beg you. Please cut Counsell. Please.

BCS 6th Birthday - Top 25 pictures of the last year

2011-07-21T12:24:00.001-05:00

I toyed with the idea of cutting the countdown to ten this year, as there were some very lean months in the last 12. However, BCS isn't one to break with tradition, so I'm giving you a full 25. I think we'll agree the quality is down over years past, but hopefully the revived interest in the blog in the last six weeks, fueled exclusively by unadulterated hatred for Mark "Kockspray" Kotsay will give us better offerings in year 7. On to the countdown:

#25: We didn't hear much from SteveWoodardRules this year, but he found time to go hunting with Clay and Chuck in Week 2.

#24: Dear Mark: Using your right hand to hold the tennis racket may improve your chances of making contact, you fellater.

#23: ...He looks a bit constipated, no?

#22: The Cowboys realized they fucked up and sign Cullen Jenkins to play corner

#21: Betancourt, Kotsay, Wilson, Dillard, DiFelice, Counsell, and Kam Loe all ask Nieves to put in a good word for them

#20: Remember when my brother was too scared to talk to Ban Johnson's daughter?

#19: When Matthews isn't showering in the blood of his enemies, he enjoys a nice, cool Heineken bath

#18: James Harrison thinks Clay Matthews III is overrated. When was the last time Harrison clown raped some guy's heart?

#17: Aaaand this is our first picture with a penis

#16: Didn't think we'd actually get to a point where we'd miss Gomez, if only for his glove

#15: Why couldn't the SEALs have taken this asshole out instead?

#14: This guy here is dead

#13: If you Google Image search the phrase "They're still shitty", this picture is among the top 25 responses.

#12: Betancourt gets a breather

#11: For all of the inactivity in the last year, the blog did coin one very important phrase. "Clown Rape" will forever be associated with Clay Matthews' interactions with quarterbacks.

#10: For the uninitiated, the Win Probability Added (WPA) graph below indicates that Mark Kotsay has a small pecker.

#9: This is about as intellectual as we get around here. Take a theme from a freshman-level psych course, insert the greatest clown rapist in a generation, and voila, you've reached the top ten.

#8: Packers' defensive coordinator is known for his unconventional methods. This picture is just the first of several pieces of evidence.

#7: We discussed shuttering the blog a few months back. In reality, we'll stop doing the blog just as soon as penis jokes are no longer funny.

#6: Carlos Gomez experiments with some secret African recovery methods. While Albert Pujols favors HGH, Gomez appearas to favor fecal play. No surprise, given his approach at the plate.

#5: The only reason Romo isn't staring down the penis on his head is that he's trying to play hard to get.

#4: Like flies surrounding Urlacher's asshole.

#3: On reinforcing stereotypes: The ref is blatantly watching Austin push off but has done nothing to punish him.

#2: Is that an alpenhorn in your pants, or are you just BJ Raji. Alternatively: Penis jokes are really funny.

#1: There was really no contest this year. In fact, other than the arabs in the first countdown, there has never been such an uncontested #1 overall picture. It's got all the elements you ask for - shitty photoshopping, subtle hatred for the Brewers, racial observations, and, most importantly, a penis. Admit it, you laughed again when you scrolled down to this one. The very definition of a classic. Well done, Condy.

So, budding BCS artists, what does it take to make the top 25 countdown? I think the list is pretty simple

1. Penis humor

2. Doing really anything with Clay Matthews

3. Hating the Brewers

4. More dicks.

There you have it. Thanks to everybody for your contributions, and looking forward to advancing the cause of dick jokes in the next 12 months.

Brewers relievers "Concerned as Fuck" about Gomez's injury

2011-07-21T08:56:00.004-05:00

I Wish I Knew How to Quit You...

No, not because an already shitty defense just got worse, but because it may have opened up the fourth spot in the Feces Four this coming October.

1,000 Words on Swagger...

2011-07-18T11:32:00.003-05:00

Brewers acquire A-Rod

2011-07-13T00:34:00.004-05:00

Former New York Yankees' third baseman Alex Rodriguez (above) knocks his 6,000th career home run with the Brewers, his 5,374th with the team, obliterating Hank Aaron's record by roughly 4,500 for most home runs with one franchise.

AP (Milwaukee) - In something of a surprise move, the filthy rich New York Yankees traded surefire hall of fame third baseman and cash considerations to the Milwaukee Brewers for two PTBNLs. A surprising move given the Yankees >90% chance of making the playoffs this year, next year, and frankly, each of the remaining years on Rodriguez's contract. "We just really, really like Caleb Gindl," stated Yankees' General Manager Brian Cashman.

The Brewers, who, at press time, lacked the slightest financial wherewithal to pay for even a month of Rodriguez's contract, are nonetheless ecstatic to be replacing likely Hendy finalist and total shitbird Casey McGehee at third base. "Frankly, even if his knee injury holds him out until late September, we're better off with him than playing that shitbird McGehee all season!" exclaimed Brewers' skipper Ron Roenicke.

No word yet on how much of Rodriguez's contract the Yankees will be on the hook for, but early reports are stating that it's in the "pretty much fucking all of it" range. When reached for comment about the trade, Rodriguez made some passing comment about having to play next to the one shortstop that sucks more at defense than Jeter, returning to being fanned with a novelty feather by a topless Cameron Diaz.

No word yet on Brewers solutions at shortstop and in the bullpen, but given tonight's actions, the message is clear: the Brewers are willing to open their pocket books in this all-in season.

Probably Still Won't Get Me To Watch the ESPys...

2011-07-11T21:43:00.002-05:00

But this is hillarious...

Kotsay to Critics: "You Done Hatin'?"

2011-07-11T17:02:00.000-05:00

Armen Gilliam, Dead at 47

2011-07-06T12:07:00.002-05:00

Mark Kotsay, miraculously still rostered.

Pujols back after two weeks

2011-07-05T14:42:00.002-05:00

There couldn't possibly be an unnatural explanation for this, right?

Dillard: "You Cut Me?!"

2011-07-02T18:04:00.004-05:00

Hat tip to anonymous poster who pointed out how much Dillard looks like Bug from Uncle Buck. Nice work.

Honestly, Dillard hasn't been bad, and he's plenty useful against righties. The Brewers are down to 11 pitchers, three of whom never will throw more than one inning (Askford, Saito and Hawkins) and one who won't be asked to (Loe). Braddock cannot be a lefty specialist because he's one of only two guys, the other being horrible (Estrada), who can throw more than an inning. This is a recipe for bullpen disaster if there are any hiccups in the rotation. Of course, this would be true if they weren't planning on calling up a pitcher very soon.

To me it's obvious that Gamel is going down to Triple-A tomorrow night and a pitcher will be called up. Again, Kotsay survives. That's the disgraceful thing here. We are right back where we started without a single good hitter on the bench and no one who can fill in on occasion for McGehee, whose career is falling at terminal velocity. Because Kotsay has contributed absolutely nothing this season and has survived all of these "difficult decisions," it's impossible to imagine a scenario where he is cut. I mean, what else can he do and what other options need to slap Doug Melvin in the face for him to realize the sunk cost on Kotsay?

Retro Post - Small Ball

2011-06-28T12:01:00.004-05:00

We were just talking about this video, originally posted here
http://brewcitysports.blogspot.com/2008/05/small-ball-at-its-finest.html by LIFM on 5/31/2008.

It still cracks me up, so I have decided to do our first Retro Post.

Fucking roster me you Communists

2011-06-27T08:58:00.007-05:00

DiFelice got optioned back to AAA today with no corresponding roster move yet. They could bring up Hirohito as he looks to be fully healed, but with two recent days off and some long efforts from the rotation, the Brewers can afford to go short handed in the pen for a few days while significantly improving their DH situation. Gamel hit his 18th HR of the year on Sunday, or, more home runs than Kockspray has hit since the start of the 2009 season.

It says right here in my contract that I don't fucking have to go to Milwaukee

2011-06-24T00:32:00.002-05:00

Top 10 Milwaukee Athletes of All Time - The Blog of Hate Discusses Players It Loves (Revised Version)

2011-06-23T10:48:00.003-05:00

After much debate in the comments of the previous post, I think we here at BCS have come to a consensus regarding the top 10 athletes of all time in Milwaukee.

10. Mark Kotsay, UTIL Brewers 2011-present
9. Mark Kotsay, UTIL Brewers 2011-present
8. Mark Kotsay, UTIL Brewers 2011-present
7. Mark Kotsay, UTIL Brewers 2011-present
6. Mark Kotsay, UTIL Brewers 2011-present
5. Mark Kotsay, UTIL Brewers 2011-present
4. Mark Kotsay, UTIL Brewers 2011-present
3. Mark Kotsay, UTIL Brewers 2011-present
2. Mark Kotsay, UTIL Brewers 2011-present
1. Mark Kotsay, UTIL Brewers 2011-present

Top 10 Milwaukee Athletes of All Time - The Blog of Hate Discusses Players It Loves

2011-06-21T16:24:00.004-05:00

I'm bored and thinking about Fielder's impending departure and the legacy he'll leave behind in Milwaukee. Out of hand, he's probably the third most important Brewer of all time, likely to be solidified by the overall legacy he leaves behind after his entire career is complete. He'll likely be the third real Brewer to have his number in the ring of fame, provided he makes any meaningful contribution at his next stop (I'd say a career home run total over 400 would do). This got me to thinking - who are the most important athletes to have played in Milwaukee, based on their Milwaukee contributions only? Obviously if we opened the list to the entire state the list would be mostly Packers, but NFL teams don't face the same issues small market baseball and basketball teams face. I know this is the type of exercise that typically interests only me, but if you can muster up some like, let me know your thoughts.

Honorable Mention: Oscar Robertson, Ray Allen, Marques Johnson, Glenn Robinson, Ben Sheets, Rickie Weeks, Russell Branyan

10. Cecil Cooper, 1B Brewers 1977-1987 Career WAR 38.6

Cooper was a 3-time top-five MVP Candidate right in the middle of the Brewers' playoff years in the early 80's and compiled a .466 career slugging%. Not necessarily elite power numbers for a 1B (career high of 32 HR in 1982), but a consistent performer in the prime of his career that just so happened to be critical years for the Brewers. With a few more strong seasons in Milwaukee it's relatively easy to see Rickie Weeks take over this spot.

9. Sidney Moncrief, SG Bucks 1979-1989

Moncrief spent 10 of his 11 years with some pretty good Bucks teams in the 80's that were usually held back by the Boston Celtics. Moncrief was a two-time defensive player of the year in the NBA and a five-time All-NBA team member. He'd probably be higher on this list if he didn't play for the Bucks.

8. Ryan Braun, 3B/OF Brewers, 2007-Present (Career WAR 20.8) and 7. Prince Fielder, 1B/DH Brewers, 2005-Present (Career WAR 21.6)

The Molitor and Yount of the new generation. Fielder gets the slight nod for the time being due to his superior plate approach to Braun's prior to this season, as well as the disastrous defensive start to Braun's career (-27.7 fielding runs above average at 3B in 2007). Fielder was the youngest player to hit 50 home runs in history and did so in a Brewers uniform. He's currently tied with Geoff Jenkins for second all-time in HR in a Brewer uniform.

As I write this in 2011, Braun ranks as only the 8th most important athlete in Milwaukee history. Given that he's signed through 2020, it's not inconceivable that he could end up in the top two by the time things are said and done. A defensive butcher but an offensive ace, Braun has added plate discipline to his approach this season (11.9% walk rate, compared to a 7.7% career average), which was the final remaining piece holding him back from the offensive elite. Braun will certainly rank as the franchise leader in career home runs by the end of his career, and, health permitting, should set a plethora of additional franchise records.

6. Kareem Abdul-Jabar, C Bucks 1969-1975

The most important Buck on the list, Kareem led the Bucks to their only championship in team history. He's most noted for his runs in Los Angeles with both the Bruins and the Lakers, but he's also the best Buck of all time. He led the league in scoring twice in a Bucks jersey, including a 31.7 mark in the Bucks' championship season and 34.8 per game a season later.

5. Warren Spahn, SP Braves 1953-1964

The winningest left-hander of all time spent 12 years of his career in the Brew City, including his lone Cy Young Season with the 1957 Champion Braves. He also finished runner-up three additional times with the Brewers. I note this because his career peripherals are not overwhelming - only 4.4 strikeouts per nine, and a pedestrian ERA+ of 119 (his career ERA of 3.09 is a function of the time in which he played). Truthfully his legacy for longevity is the reason he is ranked so highly on this list.

4. Paul Molitor, 3B/DH Brewers 1978-1993 Career WAR 75.2

The Ignitor is 9th all time in career hits and was a no-doubt first-ballot Hall of Famer. Molitor stole 412 bases in his career with the brewers and had a near-80% career success rate. Statistically speaking his entire career may be more impressive than Yount's, but given that some of his production, including his 3,000th hit, came in Blue Jays and Twins uniforms, he falls short of Yount.

3. Robin Yount, SS/OF Brewers 1974-1993 Career WAR 74.1

Yount is unquestionably the most important Brewer of all time, the only one of any real significance to spend his entire career with the team. He holds team records in HR, RBI, Runs and Hits, and is the only player in Major League history to win an MVP award at two different positions. He will forever be a hero in Milwaukee, perhaps eclipsing the importance of the two players in front of him on the list, and with Ryan Braun and Tony Plush the only foreseeable threats to his throne.

2. Hank Aaron, RF Braves 1954-1965, DH Brewers 1975-1976 Career WAR 150.5

I'll bet this surprised you a bit. He suffers from the same impediment that Molitor does - he spent 10 years in another city. There's no question that his legacy in Milwaukee is more important than Eddie Matthews', but given that he spent 11 seasons in Atlanta and produced 4 40+ home run seasons in the ATL, his career numbers must be discounted some in a Milwaukee context. Regardless, he's not really a threat to drop any lower because despite Yount's awesomeness, Aaron was simply a better player. Perhaps the most important asset to Aaron's legacy in Milwaukee is the fact that he chose to close out his career here as a DH. Although this only resulted in 222 games, 22 home runs and 0.6 WAR, it's an important memento to the city's sports legacy.

1. Eddie Matthews, 3B Braves 1953-1965 Career WAR 107.2

Matthews spent nearly his entire career in Milwaukee, coming over in his Age-21 season when the team moved from Boston, and leaving with the team for Atlanta in 1966. Matthews Ranks 23rd all time in WAR for position players and tied for 21st in career home runs with 512. Matthews was underappreciated in his era as he never finished second in the MVP balloting, but OPS+s consistently above 140, and career ISOBB of of .105 and a career ISO Slugging of .238. He showed much better patience at the plate than his higher-profile teammate.

In today's game there's no way a team like the Braves would have been able to keep Spahn, Matthews, and Aaron together for as long as they did, so it's unlikely to see three Brewers teammates at the top of this list at any point, but it's pretty remarkable the elite talent that the 50's and 60's Braves had on them.

Brewers to Celebrate Tim Dillard Bobblehead Night

2011-06-21T14:28:00.002-05:00

I'm excited.

Brewers to Employ New Lineup Strategy in AL Parks

2011-06-17T15:56:00.002-05:00

Nieves Cut, Looking for New Work

2011-06-16T11:57:00.001-05:00

We wish you the best in your new career, Wil.

Brewers-Cubs Games 1 and 2 recap

2011-06-15T10:40:00.000-05:00

Meet Your New DH

2011-06-15T10:20:00.003-05:00

Why would you call up Gamel when you got a guy slugging .305 in the majors?

Brewers Sweep the Cardinals

2011-06-13T10:46:00.002-05:00

Dillard to Critics: "You Done Hatin'?"

2011-06-10T09:37:00.001-05:00

Game Review - Brewers 7, Mets 6

2011-06-09T11:10:00.007-05:00

Ok, this won't really be a huge game review. Prince Fielder is crushing the ball right now, and Kameron Loe looks like he's facing Prince Fielder every at bat. That's all that really needs to be said about last night's game (strange for such an exciting one), other than noting a good effort by Randy Wolf, and that we may have our first player out-and-out excluded from the Hendies

Interview with Corey Provus

Brewers-Marlins Series Recap

2011-06-08T09:46:00.002-05:00

Sorry I'm a day late on this. I'm going to try to stay on top of series recaps going forward, at least for the weekday series. I'll also talk a bit about last night's game, because it's fresh in my mind.

Overview

It's pretty tough for a team expected to win 53-55% of its games to win only 32% (9-19) of its road games over the course of the season. However, that's exactly where the Brewers found themselves heading into a four-game wrap-around series against the Marlins last weekend. Similarly, it's difficult for any team to maintain a 14-7 record in one run games, which is exactly where the Marlins were heading into the series. So, what we saw was a perfect opportunity for the normalization of those stats heading into the series. However, I don't think many would have expected such an immediate and dramatic regression for each of those trends. Let's go to the tape...

Game 1 - Brewers 6, Marlins 5

The game started out with a bang when Prince Fielder got the green light on a 3-0 count and hammered a 2-run homer to right field, giving the Brewers a 2-0 lead. This was exactly the type of offense the Brewers had come to rely on in the previous four weeks, and was expected to continue in the favorable hitting conditions in south Florida. The runs were especially important this night because Ryan Braun was on the bench nursing a sore shoulder. However, those same conditions allowed the Marlins to jump on Randy Wolf as well, including homers from Gaby Sanchez and Mike Stanton, as well as a triple from Emilio Bonifacio, hit about as hard as Emilio has ever hit a ball in his entire life. After the fielder homer, the Brewers clogged the bases for a few more runs, but the Brewers found themselves behind after Sergio Mitre allowed a double to John Buck, later driven in by Greg Dobbs. Unable to produce anything for several innings, the Brewers found themselves down a run with one on in the ninth. They had hoped to give Braun a true day off, but were given no choice but to pinch hit him given the circumstances and their already impotent bench. On Braun's only swing of the day (no BP, nothing off a Tee, and a ball and a strike looking), he crushed one to very deep left that had shades of the finality of his grand slam against Pittsburgh and 2-run homer against Chicago in late 2008. I think I speak for everybody here when I say he is my favorite Jew since Jesus. The Brewers needed the emotional pick-me-up after the crushing loss to Cincinnati two days prior. In all, the Brewers looked pretty lost at the plate for a team that scored 6 runs (11 k's to 2 bb's) while giving up five walks to a relatively impatient Marlins team, but in the end a win is a win.

Game 2 - Brewers 3, Marlins 2

Unlike Game 1, Game 2 was a pitchers duel between Yo Gallardo and Chris Volstad. Gallardo did his part for the Brewers offense holding the Marlins to 2 runs, 1 earned (thanks, Casey McGehee! When was the last time we had a 3B that could competently field his position? Charlie Hayes?), on 6 hits and 2 walks. Meanwhile, Tony Plush, facing Chris Volstad for the first time since this muscled one as far as he ever has for his first homer of the year. In the 7th, Fielder hit another massive homer and YunE-6 just missed another, doubling in Johnathan Lucroy to give the Brewers a 3-2 lead. The game was not without late-inning dramatics from the Brewers' bullpen, though, as Omar Infante led off the 9th with a single, and his eventual pinch runner made it to 3rd on a wild pitch by Axford before Emilio Bonifacio's strikeout to end the game. With the win, the series was at worst a push, and the road trip at worst 3-4, a marked improvement for the Brewers overall.

Game 3 - Brewers 6, Marlins 5

The Brewers spotted Christy Mathveson an early five run lead, including a Rickie Weeks homer and run-scoring balk in the third, but couldn't produce another hit for seven innings. Meanwhile, the Narv dog mowed down the Marlins for five straight innings, but was vulnerable as he always is to the big inning. In the sixth, Narveson issued two walks, a strong double, and another single, while Marco Estrada finished the job, allowing a game-tying grand slam to Brett Hayes. The Brewers got out of a 1-out, bases loaded jam in the 9th against two of Florida's best hitters - Gaby Sanchez and Mike Stanton - that included a force out at home to send the game to extras. In the 11th, the Brewers got another pinch-hit home run from a bench player sure to make the hall of fame when Josh Ripken hit the eventual game winner in the top of th 11th. John Axford, pitching for the third consecutive day, made it interesting yet again by allowing two baserunners, but eventually closed it out to give the Brewers the game and the series. My heart can't take this anymore, please just blow them the fuck out tomorrow.

Game 4, Brewers 7, Marlins 2

I'll admit I didn't watch or listen to any of this game, but from what I understand Greinke was still giving up hard hit balls, though they resulted in only two runs. He continued to show the precise command of the strike zone that we all expected when he came over, which gives one hope for the rest of the summer. The offense included Fielder's third homer of the series. Fielder is finally looking like a man looking for a nine-figure deal. He's a notorious slow-starter, so I expect to see continued power from him for the rest of the summer. For the first time all series the bullpen held up their end of the bargain and the Brewers were able to sweep the Marlins.

Overall, the series put the Brewers hot on the trail of the Cardinals, who swept the Cubs but lost ground by the end of the day Monday. Much like the Marlins, the Cardinals peripherals (most notably the BABIP of both their hitters and pitchers) suggest a team ready to head back to earth, which would hopefully coincide with the upcoming weekend series in Milwaukee. The Brewers showed some significant impatience at the plate, drawing only nine walks all series, but the offense has enough raw power to keep them in games, given the talent of the top three starters in the rotation.

Brewers vs. Mets game 1 - Mets 2, Brewers 1

I'm running out of steam a bit here, but thankfully there isn't much to talk about from last night's game. Prince Fielder hit yet another home run, his fourth in five games, and muscle-bound former Brewer Chris Capuano kept the Brewers in check the rest of the day. Meanwhile, Carlos Gomez showed why, despite his utter ineptitude at the plate, YunE-6 is the frontrunner for the 2011 Hendy by getting to at least four balls that prevented extra-base hits/runs, including two in the 7th on Jose Reyes' tripe to the wall and Carlos Beltran's should-have-been home run (the others were a leaping catch into the right center wall, and another at the base of the deepest part of the center field wall, left field side in a dead sprint). However, it wasn't enough to win the game as the Brewers could do nothing right on offense. Ryan Braun looks like he's still struggling with his shoulder, which is problematic when the bottom third of the order can't do dick to score runs.

Brewers 2011 Draft

2011-06-07T00:16:00.003-05:00

On Monday night, the Brewers started what hopefully will be the beginning of the rebuilding of their decimated farm system.

It's hard not to be cynical when dealing with the Brewers' drafts, particularly those of the past few years and those where they do not pick early in the first round. Of the Brewers' top picks in the last five drafts, 3 have been traded, one was a bust within months of signing and one did not sign at all. With that recent history, it is no wonder that the Brewers currently sport the worst farm system in baseball, a system without a single impact position player prospect and no pitching prospect within 3 years of the majors. Historically, the Brewers have lived and died by the draft. This is because the Brewers have almost no international scouting and signing presence and because the Brewers are at best the 29th biggest market in baseball. Given the need for a boost to the farm system, there is as much pressure on this draft as any for the Brewers in recent memory.

The Brewers picked 12th overall and made what seems to be the consensus right choice in selecting Taylor Jungmann out of the University of Texas. Jungmann is exactly who I saw the Brewers targeting. He is a sinkerballer, and I get the impression that Doug Melvin has an extreme hard-on for sinkerball pitchers. He is also highly advanced and hopefully could be in Double-A by next year, meaning he could be with the big league club by 2013, the year after the MLB rotation is set to expire. Remember that Melvin is trying to stay competitive every year and not looking to go into any rebuilding process where the MLB team suffers. While this is probably impossible, Melvin is going to do whatever he can to patch things for 2013 and beyond.

Considering Melvin's objectives, I was also not surprised to see the Brewers select another college arm, Jed Bradley, out of Georgia Tech at 15th overall. Bradley was highly regarded, and few believe this pick to be a reach for the Brewers. However, there has been some questions about Bradley's true potential and whether he will succeed in the majors without dominating stuff.

Predicting how these guys will be is obviously impossible at this point, and most experts believe both to be solid picks for the Brewers. I do not know anything in particular about these guys that you couldn't read on your own. But I do have a system for determining whether a player is overrated by looking at a few key things that scouts and fans overvalue. So, here goes on those:

1) Speed. Not applicable here, as this applies only to hitters. Speed is an important component to baserunning and defense, but that's only about 2% of the game of baseball. Yet, in the desire to find the perfect five-tool prospect, scouts get huge, raging boners over guys who are fast to the exclusion of guys who can crush a baseball 500 feet.

2) 100 mph fastballs. This is the pitching equivalent of blazing speed. Again, this is the progeny of efforts to find the perfect, unhittable pitcher. Sorry, Rookie of the Year was a fiction. Didn't really happen. And, even in fiction, the guy who throws 100+ mph is on the operating table by the end of the story. Every year there is a player who throws ultra-hard but who "needs to work on his secondary offerings." 99 out of 100 times this guy is a bust (see e.g. Mark Rogers, Jeremy Jeffress). Fortunately, neither Jungmann nor Bradley were selected for throwing 100 mph. Each tops out in the low to mid 90's, which I believe to be just slightly below the optimal velocity for a pitcher on a scouting report. This is a plus.

3) Cool names. Neither Jungmann nor Bradley has a cool name. This is very good. This concept is beyond the reach of empirical study, but guys with distinct, cool names get overvalued. There are not a lot of guys named "Colt" in the majors. Good baseball players have normal names.

4) Body type. Good baseball players also come in all shapes and sizes. This is particularly true for pitchers. For hitters, there is a direct correlation between being big and crushing a baseball. Hence, bigger hitters are generally better. Way too much concern is given, however, to bigger pitchers. More size equals more moving parts, meaning more likelihood for mechanical flaws. This creates accuracy concerns as well as more injury concern. More muscle mass and fat means more strain on joints and tendons. If a guy is throwing 95 mph, who cares if he is 6'0" or 6"6"? Unfortunately, the Brewers seemed to be drawn to the fact that Jungmann and Bradley were good "pitcher builds" (i.e. 6'4" 220lbs). This is a knock against the pitchers, but not too much because they aren't being too overvalued. They aren't 6'8" after all.

5) Relievers. The desire to draft college relievers is still a mystery to me. They are not worth what teams think they are. Both Jungmann and Bradley are future starters. This is a plus.

6) Cold weather numbers. Not a factor here either, as both pitchers pitch in very competitive southern conferences. Their numbers are not inflated for playing against bad competition, and they are considerably more advanced than northern players.

Admittedly, my analysis could be considered backwards. But I take the information provided by experts, find the flaws those experts typically make, and use the history of mistakes by experts to determine where a player probably should go. Using this analysis, the Brewers seemed to make two very solid picks. I struggle to find any knock against them from this standpoint. They throw multiple pitches (4 for Bradley, 3 for Jungmann) and have no injury concern from what I can tell.

The concern I have from the traditional scouting standpoint is that neither is a big strikeout pitcher. I prefer this over the groundball-type pitcher. This is particularly true with Bradley, from whom I question if he has a major league strikeout pitch. But both Jungmann and Bradley are starting at a point where they could develop more strikeout skills. They have good control and command and enough velocity. And I love how advanced they are and how relatively low risk they are - particularly compared to high school pitchers and pitchers who throw harder with less control.

While I love to see the Brewers take position players instead of pitchers, this year's draft position was not as conducive to taking a hitter. There was a glut of college arms, and the two arms the Brewers picked would have been top-10 picks last year. This was a good, deep draft. We will what bats the Brewers can find in the second round and beyond when the draft starts up again on Tuesday. Considering the Brewers' window, which closes in 2013 and for the near future after that (despite Melvin's disagreement and efforts to keep the Brewers competitive every year - for this he will fail), I would not have minded seeing the Brewers take more high upside players who would not reach the majors for quite a few years. Who cares about the 2013-15 seasons, right? But I do prefer college players, so I won't complain with Melvin's strategy.

Jungmann is now the Brewers No. 1 prospect, followed closely by Bradley at No. 2.

Tim Dillard Shoots Down Critics, Marlins

2011-06-06T09:18:00.003-05:00

...And your May HIAWDA winner is:

2011-06-05T18:42:00.003-05:00

Is it even necessary to look up his numbers in May? Does anyone even care anymore? Is anyone happier than me to see Tony Plush healthy? No, No, and NOOOOOO. I will admit though, he actually looks good in a Nashville uniform.

I gave in to my cynical curiosity and brought up his May stat line: 80PA, .200/.282/.414/.696, not to mention 7BB/27K

Enjoy pinch running for the remainder of the season, you worthless dick

Marquette Forfeits 2011-2014 Seasons - Future in Big East in Doubt?

2011-06-03T10:39:00.002-05:00

.234/.295/.348/.642

2011-05-17T15:43:00.000-05:00

Coincidentally, the numbers above represent both Carlos Gomez's 2011 batting statistics to date and my exact BAC watching him bat in the 1st, 4th, 6th and 8th innings last night after watching him strand 8 fucking base runners.

NFL Draft 2011

2011-04-28T15:57:00.002-05:00

For the last five years, the blog has served as an archive for both hilariously innaccurate and incredibly accurate player assessments. Steve, the Bub and Condy all have paragraphs of predictions that they ought to include on a resume sent to ESPN. Obviously there's plenty of documentation on why several bloggers (Steve, the Bub) thought Clay Matthews was going to be great. But we've all read that many times after the fact. I've highlighted a few notable and funny comments below. By way of who's the blog's best oracle, I'm putting my money on the Bub Father. Seriously.

"Great story on My Man Mario on Yahoo! today. The man is going to be a disgusting NFL player. Everybody is saying that he's by far the best defensive prospect in the draft." Bub in 2006.

"I'm a bit concerned about how injury prone all these guys seem to be" Condy in 2007 regarding Justin Harrell.

"Jordy had something like 120 catches and had 260 return yards on 5 returns. He was obviously picked to make the special teams extra special." Steve 2008

"The other player I'll talk about individually is Brian Brohm. I was higher on this guy than any other quarterback in the draft" Bub 2008. (Matt Ryan, Joe Flacco and Matt Flynn were in this draft).

"Bubba Franks is gone, so he finds a TE who is really athletic, knowing how Franks couldn't separate any longer. This guy can't block (yet), but sure can run, jump and catch passes." Bub Father on Jermike 2008

"Our offensive tackles are getting a little old and Barbre is a tackle we were forced to play at Guard when Coston and others were hurt. By grabbing Sitton and that wop from Louisville, we added nice depth."
Bub Father in 2008 (Sitton is arguably the best guard in football)

"Alright ya'll, I'm about to fuck you up with some truth. Matthews is horse shit."
Condy in 2009

"Underwood was too undisciplined to stay at Ohio State?! Crack open the fucking bottle and let's toast!"
Condy in 2009 (Bub and I agree this is the best one, Underwood had a great preseason on and off the field, so I still am optimistic about him).

"I think the Packers will expect Burnett, as well as Bulaga and Neal, to contribute significantly in their rookie seasons."
Condy in 2010

Get on record starting tonight!

Attention Ron Roenicke: PLAY TONY PLUSH!

2011-04-08T09:30:00.007-05:00

FUCKING START ME, YOU SHITHEAD

In case you have never heard this dude speak, Nyjer Morgan is a strange individual. Sort of a Flava-Flav type with unlimited swag. I don't even care that his career numbers are pedestrian if not unimpressive, I need to see this guy in the lineup over Carlos Gomez. HE HAS A FREAKING ALTER EGO and calls himself Tony Plush (an obvious porn name) when on the field. I know it's crazy early in the season, but I actually think this dude could be an x-factor this year if he stays in the lineup.

Now that's gangsta

Granted, he has zero power and one of the worst arms in baseball, but he can make up for that with getting on base and manufacturing runs. Let's face it, the Brewers are essentially a solo homerun-hitting team. We could definitely use a guy in the lineup who runs the bases and forces the defense to make plays. You can't discount the fact that energy is contagious in baseball, and Plush is the guy who can positively infect the crew. I'm excited to see how everything shakes out when Hart comes back, and here's to hoping we never see Carlos Gomez as a starting CFer again!

Breaking News: Marco Estrada to Start for the Brewers

2011-04-06T14:14:00.001-05:00

Are you serious, Pecker Petters?

2011-04-01T14:59:00.002-05:00

So let me get this straight. You're starting Mark Kotsay in right field? You're serious about that? If only there was a corner outfielder available that could exceed the lofty expectations of him. Darn.

Extra Extra

2011-03-31T16:57:00.002-05:00

They're still shitty.

Packers Extend . . . Ban Johnson?

2011-03-30T09:00:00.002-05:00

Holy shit does Mike McCarthy look like American League founder and historic baseball executive Ban Johnson.

2011 MLB Gambling

2011-03-08T18:08:00.003-06:00

It's taken me a while to post this, so some of the lines may have moved a bit. Instead of analyzing every team, I'm giving five bets I like this year (odds courtesy of Pinnacle Sports). Four of these bets are world series champion bets. In the case that the odds given are more than two times greater (i.e. 50:1 for WS vs. >25:1 for League Champion) for the team to win their league, take the league bet in lieu of these. As always, these are not the teams I think are the best in baseball. These are the teams that I think have the best chance to win given their odds. So while I believe the Phillies have the best chance of winning the World Series, I wouldn't bet on them because they are at 3:1 odds. There is not enough reward. So here are five bets I like:

Dodgers at 50:1 to win World Series

The Dodgers play in a tough division, and they play in a division with the defending WS champion Giants. Gamblers no doubt are overlooking the team's potential. At 50:1, the Dodgers are playing with more favorable than 6:1 odds of making the postseason. With the pitching and defense this team has, I would say it makes the postseason one out of every three seasons (meaning they should be at 24:1). If Matt Kemp can rebound from a bad 2010 season and Andre Ethier can hit like he did while healthy in 2010, they have just enough offense to push perhaps the best run-preventing team in the league into the postseason.

Houston Astros under 71.5 wins

I'm a bigger fan of postseason bets just because they are more fun, and you don't keep your money tied up for 7 months on a 50/50 bet. But this bet stood out to me because of not only how bad I think the Astros are now but because of how bad I think they will develop to be by the end of the season. This team should have lost almost 100 games last year, and that's when it employed Lance Berkman and Roy Oswalt. I don't trust Brett Myers's health, and an injury anywhere in the rotation means Ryan Rowland-Smith is starting every 5th game. In fact, he may already be in the rotation. The Astros have a tough interleague schedule (Tex. 6, Tor. 3, Bos. 3, Tam. 3), and the rest of the division is up this year. They also don't get to play themselves. They have very little upgrades in the upper minors, and, even if they did, there isn't much reason to push those guys up this year. By August, they will be trying to give as much playing time as possible to the young guys already on the roster, guys like Brett Wallace and Jason Castro. If you saw them last year, you'll realize that's not going to help in the short term. Also, this team has Bill Hall.

Detroit Tigers at 35:1 to win World Series

I'm struggling to find any real difference between the White Sox, Twins and Tigers at the top of the AL Central. For whatever reason, the Tigers' odds at 35:1 are higher than the White Sox at 30:1 and Twins at 25:1. So I'll take the Tigers. I like how the Tigers go for broke with their prospects every season. I wouldn't be surprised to see Jacob Turner and Andy Oliver contributing meaningfully by season's end. I also like how the Tigers' first baseman is doing his best Babe Ruth impression, while competing first basemen in the division are doing their best Corey Koskie impressions. Power pitchers have a higher ceiling, and the Tigers are loaded on that front. So I like their ceiling, philosophy and odds.

Oakland A's at 35:1 to win World Series

I find the A's to be perpetually underrated. They have a fantastic defense and pitching combo. Combined with their home ballpark, they should allow the fewest runs in the AL. While I don't think their offense is anywhere near good, the AL West is a fight among only 3 competing teams. One of those teams, the Angels, is overrated. The Rangers are legitimately better than the A's and are also a young team, but I'm leery of how top-heavy the Rangers' team is and how injury-prone many of those top players are. The Rangers' rotation is also very risky. So, the A's are a lot closer to the Rangers than people think. On paper they're not as sexy, but when things shake out the A's have a good chance of being ahead. Regardless, 35:1 odds are great because the A's should make the playoffs more than once out of every four years.

Atlanta Braves at 25:1 to win World Series

I'm going against my general trend here in that I generally do not promote betting on a team to win the Wild Card. To win the Wild Card, the team must beat 13 other teams. To win the division, you must beat 4 other teams. So, the odds are tough, especially with the NL having a lot of competition this year for the WC (I could see 7 teams legitimately competing for the spot). But the Braves overcome these odds because I believe they are the second best team in the NL and good enough to give the Phillies a run at the division, though ultimately it's hard to imagine the Phils not winning. The Braves are loaded with young, star-level talent. The lineup is fierce with the addition of Dan Uggla and another year of growth for Jason Hayward. The rotation is good, deep, and could be remarkable with the addition of some pitching prospects, such as Julio Teheran, considered by many to be the best pitching prospect in the minors. The Braves are in such a position of strength with pitching depth that they can add an impact bat in LF or 1B, if necessary, through trade as the season wears on. Remember, pitching prospects, hell, even middling pitchers, can get you a really good bat in July. They also have enough live young arms that Teheran and others could be vital bullpen cogs come playoff time. I really like this team despite the fact they are behind the Phillies and have only 25:1 odds.

Talkin Football with Ben and Clay

2011-02-27T16:41:00.003-06:00

Packers Win Super Bowl XLV (with edited captions)

2011-02-25T11:58:00.002-06:00

Clay Fucking Matthews and Aaron Rodgers offer precious metals for Lil' Wayne to incorporate into his next Packers-related grill.

In case you couldn't hear the game because the person behind you was screaming "RAPE" loudly and have since been living under a rock, the Packers won Super Bowl XLV, bringing the Lombardi Trophy back home to Green Bay.

In a game that was a microcosm for the season, the Packers came out strong to an early 14 point lead, taking advantage of a clearly distracted Ben Roethlisberger, only to give up ground after several crippling injuries.

Ben Roethlisberger sizes up his newest prey: women unwilling to have sex with any man, not just him.

Big Ben started the first quarter poorly, and after the Packers' first score, threw a key pick-6 to Nick Collins, who proceeded to perform the most anti-swagger celebration that ultimately drew a costly penalty. Pittsburgh scored on the following drive.

Aside from about six dropped balls, all of Jarrett Bush's plays in pass coverage and two special teams fuckups, Collins' celebration penalty was the only mistake the Packers made all game.

Big Ben knew what he was doing all along.

Charles Woodson suffered a broken collarbone and Sam Shields sprained his shoulder in the second quarter, leaving the Packers with none other than highway 24 to play nickel corner the rest of the game. Roethlisberger, being the opportunist that he is, proceeded to pass all over the Packers' depleted secondary, much like he did when the teams met in the regular season a year ago.

Thankfully, not phased Roethlisberger's offensive thrusts, the Packers' front seven stepped up with some key pressures and blitzes, keeping the Steelers' offense in check long enough to put the ball in the hands of Rodgers for a few key, late drives.

Is that an alpenhorn in your pants or are you just BJ Raji?

On offense, Packers wide receivers once again struggled to catch the ball. I seriously feel bad for James Jones's children because they're going to grow up fucking retarded after how many times he's dropped them. Thankfully, he also managed to let a contract extension slip through his fingers at the same time he dropped the sure-thing TD pass in the 4th quarter.

With Donald Driver finally succumbing to arthritis, it appeared as though the offense would lose steam, but Rodgers was able to find Greg Jennings for a second and would be game-winning score. Meanwhile, White Lightning Jordy Nelson caught passes up and down the field for a career day, resulting in several thumbs up fist bumps.

Down by six with less than two minutes left in the game, Roethlisberger proved he's as good at engineering comeback drives as he is at riding motorcycles, leaving nothing but partying back in Titletown as Rodgers was crowned Super Bowl MVP.

Hines Ward: Loser, furry

And oh did they party. Some fans took to the streets, others simply took off their pants. It kinda looked like this...

Television cameras hit the streets to film some of Green Bay's faithful at their finest, celebrating their first Super Bowl victory in 14 years, their fourth overall.

Scott Walker's lone exhibit in the case against the state teacher's union

After a rollercoaster season, the Packers managed to overcome all adversity and returned the Lombardi Trophy to its rightful home. While Ted Thompson skipped the celebration in order to camp out for the combine at Lucas Oil Field in Indianapolis, a myriad of Packers players took their swagger to national talk shows the following week.

Being one of the youngest teams in football and having several key players return from IR this offseason, the Packers are clearly poised for years of greatness. The challenge going forward is simply sustaining the work ethic and preparation that produced this season's success, an accomplishment worthy of Vince...

Vince Lombardi reflects on beating the Steelers, his son

Packers Beat Bears, Win NFC Championship and Eggbeater Trophy

2011-01-25T14:43:00.000-06:00

BJ Raji and the Packers defense were happy to take the championship belt from a struggling, sore and likely concussed Rodgers to carry the Packers past the Bears, advancing to Super Bowl XLV. A week after punishing Atlanta's defensive backfield, Rodgers struggled late in this ugly championship game but was bailed out by a swarming Packers defense with off-the-charts swagger. Like seriously, their celebrations were so in your face that they almost turned over the ball twice in the process, but still didn't. That's a 12 metric fucktons of swag.

Defensive Coordinator Dom Capers searches for new ways to emphasize ball security with Raji

This blogger is glad Raji finally captured the national audience with this game-changing pick six. Obviously BCS's contributors have been on this guy's dick for a long time now, and we openly welcome the rest of Packer nation to jump on board because there's plenty of it to go around. He's played like 90% of the defensive snaps this year and has been an absolute terror in the postseason.

Meanwhile, plenty of controversy surrounds Jay Cutler and his knee injury that sidelined him in the third quarter. While I think it's pretty apparent that Packers fans everywhere wanted the struggling Cutler to continue playing, Bears fans quickly embraced their third string quarterback, dubbing themselves Haniacs while their starter sobbed on the sidelines reading various Twitter updates.

hopefully the soundtrack replacing "Bear Down" in 2011...

So a seriously hurt Cutler probably wasn't the Bears best bet to start at quarterback, but imbecile Bears fans, the same people who blew up the Bartman ball and will be complaining about Cutler for years to come, have misplaced their blame.

First, management/ownership should know full well and understand the unpopularity of their QB amongst fans. Putting him in anything short of a body bag on the sidelines is a huge mistake. Shit, give him superfluous crutches or a gigantic leg brace. Send him to the fucking locker room. Help the poor guy out, you should know better.

Instead, the training staff/coaches/front office/whoever let a dejected Cutler just sit on the sidelines, looking more benched than hurt. Add to that the fact he wasn't wearing a headset or carrying a clipboard and you have hours of hilarious banter on AM 670 as a result.

Second, everybody watched Todd Collins throw 5 picks in two games this season, one of which was against the worst team in the NFL. How the coaching staff could overlook the QB depth chart details that terribly is completely beyond me...especially when you have a putrid offensive line known for giving up sacks. Collins doesn't belong in the NFL, deciding he isn't the second best quarterback on your team in the 3rd quarter of the NFC Championship game probably isn't the best time to do so, huh?

Third, and finally, you've run the wildcat formation several times this season and even in the postseason. Maybe, just maybe you might want to give that a try when you're down to your third string QB and your starting RB has 160 total yards on the day.

But the Packers prevailed in a brutal game and are onto Dallas to play in the Super Bowl as a result.

Rodgers levels Urlacher with a Shoryuken punch after the game

This game was obviously a letdown for Rodgers after his immaculate game against the Falcons, but he and the offense set the tone early with a score on their first drive. While most Packer fans likely look forward to Rodgers playing in a dome in two weeks, you have to give him credit for the toughness he displayed...taking the helmet to helmet shot from Peppers and tripping up Urlacher after the interception.

Meanwhile, it's time for Ted Thompson's true identity to be revealed.

Even Ted Thompson was surprised to learn Batman's identity

The hero Green Bay deserves. Finally, it's not only BCS bloggers and avid fans who are singing this man's praises, it's the entirety of the NFL.

Thompson quietly took on the role of the villain, telling beloved Packer Brett Favre to fuck himself while moving the team forward with Rodgers in 2008. Thompson did the right thing, took his lumps in the media without reaction after making the correct, yet wildly unpopular decision, and less than three years later, it has completely paid off. The team has achieved more success with a younger, less expensive player in Rodgers.

The icing on the cake? Thompson traded in the 3rd round pick he received for Favre to draft Clay Matthews, the man likely to receive the Defensive Player of the Year award on February 5th.

Unfortunately, it took 15 players finding the injured reserve list and five total postseason, game-ending interceptions from two undrafted rookie free agents he acquired to capture everyone's attention. The depth of the Packers' roster and the success they've achieved this year all link back to Thompson's work and decisions, popular or not.

But he doesn't care about letting Aaron Kampan or Al Harris go (both ended on IR this year, btw) or not trading for a marquee running back when Grant went down, and he won't revel in his accomplishments just yet. While the team rests and basks in the media spotlight a Super Bowl participant receives this week, Thompson is headed to Mobile, AL to scout the 2011 draft class and find leprechaun gold. With 6 starters coming off IR in 2011 to play on a team that's made the Super Bowl without them, you wonder how many Packer draft picks will actually make the team.

But it's onto the Super Bowl. Rashard Mendenhall is really fucking excited...

are you?

Rodgers, Packers Tramondous in Rout of the Falolcons

2011-01-19T14:53:00.001-06:00

There isn't much to say about Saturday's game that hasn't already been said..."Matty Ice" was turned into some sort of yellow, slushy substance while Aaron Rodgers looked immaculate.

couldn't resist...

Seriously, an 86.1 completion percentage. I don't accomplish anything I do 86% of the time. A possessed Rodgers and the Packers take on some team from Chicago that fans from the area are vaguely familiar with for a chance to play in the Super Bowl.

Packers Dog Eagles, Vick in Rodgers' First Playoff Win

2011-01-13T16:00:00.003-06:00

for a guy who used to drown pit bulls, his arm is pretty weak...

Aaron Rodgers finally notched his first career playoff win.

Seriously, finally. We only had to wait like what, half the duration of Vick's prison sentence for that losing streak to end? Waaay too long if you ask me. Before Sunday's win, he just wasn't clutch and that was a serious problem for the Packers.

I mean, a loss is a loss. I don't give a shit if you brought your team back from down by 3 scores to force a game into overtime on the road in the playoffs. If you can't endure an uncalled helmet to helmet hit, followed by an uncalled, blatant facemask on the next play, you deserve to fumble the game away and obviously can't handle the pressure of the postseason.

I don't blame football's finest analysts for questioning your mettle and predicting you to do something completely fucking embarrassing like fumbling the snap on a routine 19-yard, game-winning field goal at home in the postseason. That's just what spineless postseason pussies do.

But enough with the sarcasm, Rodgers is quietly building a nice playoff resume (7 TD passes, 603 yards, 121.8 QB rating, and 1 INT in 70 attempts). While there was a lot of hype surrounding plenty of the aspects of this game, Rodgers proved to be steadfast and almost painfully accurate. With a polite nod to Driver and Starks (I'll get to him later), Rodgers and Chad Clifton were really the only offensive players with stellar games on Sunday.

Rodgers and that kid from The Little Giants (finally grown up) celebrate

The offensive line kept Rodgers upright, while Driver and the tight ends made some nice catches as the offense managed to manufacture enough yards and points to pull this one out. Relative to Starks, he was obviously a pleasant surprise for a team not known for running the ball, or planning to do so a whole lot in the postseason.

I think any time a running back produces 123 yards in a playoff game, he did something right and well, but the hype should be short-lived. Starks was undoubtedly the offensive difference-maker against the Eagles, but if he can't repeat some of the same success against teams that have actually game-planned for him, I'll remain skeptic with the haters. If he can't take the pressure off Rodgers and open up the pass game against Atlanta with a solid rushing performance, his games against San Fran and Philly will be nothing more than, as stated earlier, a pleasant surprise.

BCS contributors watch Sunday's Playoff Win

As for the defense, you must wake up in the morning, helplessly shit and piss yourself, then lose three of your teeth before you discover that you're eating rocks for breakfast if you don't think Dom Capers' defense is the reason this team has a shot at making the Super Bowl.

The defensive line shut down LeSean McCoy and pressured an agile Vick plenty. Sporting News' Defensive Player of the Year Clay Matthews drew 4 penalties (3 false starts, 1 hold) while registering a sack and 3 tackles as he basically menaced the Eagles to the point where they benched their starting right tackle, Winston Justice. The defensive backs prevented the long completions and obviously helped deliver the dagger on Philadelphia's final drive. Holding the NFC's best scoring offense to 16 points is damn impressive.

Ryan Pickett celebrates with a multitude of heavenly hosts...

A few of the team's scary tendencies reared their ugly heads on Sunday, most notably: dropped passes. Don't forget that before James Jones dropped the sure-thing TD pass, Greg Jennings dropped two perfectly-thrown, first down passes.

Mike McCarthy indicated in the post-game press conference that Jones has been battling a painful thumb injury. Team doctors later clarified that the specific injury is referred to as "autism."

Add to that Brandon Underwood's stupid fucking error...smacks of Jarrett Bush getting penalized earlier in the year for running out of bounds and being the first to touch a ball that was completely stopped on a punt...and the Packers have plenty to to work on in practice this week.

The Packers continue their playoff bird hunting run in Atlanta this week where they face a limp-wristed faggot quarterback and a bunch of other guys who make less than Cam Newton.

If Clay Fucking Matthews is a clown rapist

2011-01-03T13:07:00.001-06:00

. . . then Tim Masthay is at least a clown aggrivated sexual assaulter.

2011 MLB Futures - Chicago Cubs

2010-12-31T12:56:00.001-06:00

Chicago Cubs

Current Odds to Win World Series: 35/1

Last Year:

The Cubs finished 75-87 last year, 16 games behind the Reds in the NL Central. Their pythagorean record, however, was 72-90.

The Good:

The Cubs have a quite a few above average players. They have made some nice additions - signing Carlos Pena and Kerry Wood, while discarding useless or underperforming players - since the middle of last year. Aramis Ramirez had an unexpectedly terrible first half last year and rebounded quite well in the second half. A full season of his expected work would add several wins to last year's total. The rotation and bullpen have live arms with breakout potential, though many of those guys have already performed well. The farm system does not feature many stud prospects, but there are several guys in the upper minors who would provide depth. And the Cubs always will have money to spend if they are in contention - despite what people say about the Cubs having empty pockets these days.

The Bad:

These are the Cubs. They haven't won a World Series in over 600 years. Though that is immaterial, the fan base and the constant potential for meltdowns from the players is not. One bad start from Zambrano or Dempster and fans are calling for their heads. More importantly, the Cubs lack star players. While Soto, Ramirez and even Pena have significant upsides, none are certain. And while the rotation features 5 guys who are legitimate major leaguers, none are likely to have a spectacular ERA. Jeff Samardzija remains the gift that keeps on giving. He is awful, yet the Cubs refuse to give up on him due to his previous receipt of the most ridiculous signing bonus in MLB draft history.

Prognosis:

The Cubs remain a dangerous team. It's hard to imagine last year going any worse for the Cubs, and they still should have won 72 games. But at 35/1, I would like more certainty than projection, especially considering that right now 3 teams are ahead of them in the division. They are worth keeping an eye on over the next couple months, but I think 35/1 is a bit too much to bet on the Cubs.

2011 MLB Futures - Houston Astros

2010-12-31T12:22:00.001-06:00

Houston Astros

Current Odds to Win World Series: 75/1

Last Year:

The Astros finished last year with a 76-86 record, 15 games behind the Reds in the NL Central. However, the record does not reflect their performance, as they finished 8 games above their pythagorean record. This was a 68-win team last year.

The Good:

If Brett Myers and Wandy Rodriguez repeat last season's effort, Astros top prospect Jordan Lyles breaks through, and the remaining filler in the rotation plays constant, the Astros could have an above average rotation. Former highly regarded prospects Brett Wallace (1B) and Jason Castro (Catcher) could have breakout seasons.

The Bad:

The bad news is that there is not much good, and the good is a major, even doubtful, if. The offense was downright bad last year, and the only addition to the 2011 lineup so far is Bill Hall. Myers has been maddeningly inconsistent, and Wallace and Castro were awful in the big league debuts last year. Even if all the breakouts happen, there is precious little talent on the infield and a generally unimpressive outfield. The farm system remains one of the worst in baseball and offers almost no help for the 2011 team. The NL Central's top may not be as high as other divisions, but there are 4 teams ahead of the Astros. Worse yet, the Astros have the following interleague schedule: Rangers - 6 games, Tampa - 3 games, and Red Sox - 3 games.

Prognosis:

Don't be fooled by the 76 wins last year. This was and is a terrible team. At 75/1, the odds are nowhere near where they should be for a team with so little upside. I would need at least 150/1 to consider the Astros. Don't touch.

2011 MLB Futures Gambling - The Pittsburgh Pirates

2010-12-31T10:18:00.003-06:00

As I have done in various forms in previous years, I thought it would be a good idea to provide the blog with some gambling previews for MLB Futures. As I have said many times before, I believe MLB Futures are the single best sports bet to make. The reason is because of two main factors: (1) baseball is still a largely misunderstood game and (2) the playoff structure of MLB renders all teams that make the playoffs equal - as very, very close to 8/1 odds of winning the world series each. Because I believe the best time to place a futures bet is before March 1, I plan to provide a preview of each team over the next two months.

I figured we should start this process with the consensus worst team in the league last year.

The Pittsburgh Pirates

Current Odds to Win World Series: 150/1

The Pirates enter the year as the team with the worst odds of winning the world series. Let's take a look at whether this team is worthy of any sort of gambling consideration.

Last Year:

The Pirates finished last year with a 57-105 record, last place in the NL Central and 20-30 games back of each of the 3 teams I believe will be the most competitive in the division this year. Worse yet, the team's record actually surpassed its performance. The Pirates should have been 52-110 last year based on the stats.

The Good:

The Pirates have a pretty good farm system. After years and years of spinning their wheels in player development, I believe the Pirates system is starting to turn the corner. Outside of the Brewers, no team in the division has made major improvements this offseason. The Pirates figure to have a good bullpen led by Evan Meek and Joel Hanrahan. Andrew McCutchen had a legitimately impressive season last year, and Neil Walker looks to be an above average second baseman for years to come.

The Bad:

The farm system is years away from producing much MLB talent. Most of the highest ceiling players will be no higher than low single-a this season. The staff is led by James McDonald, who though underrated is far from an ace. There is precious little breakout potential from the MLB roster outside of Pedro Alvarez. Its hard to imagine that none of the 3 teams at the top of the division will be good, meaning the Pirates have little chance of sneaking into the playoffs with a bad record. And the wild card never goes to a team with a subpar record.

Prognosis:

Don't go near this bet. As tempting as 150/1 odds may be, teams like this just don't come out of nowhere to win the world series. Years and years of bad drafting and player development have destroyed the franchise, and the Pirates remain several years away from being legitimate contenders. With no immediate breakout potential, the Pirates would need at least 250/1 odds for me to take notice.

Giants @ Packers Game Recap

2010-12-27T17:58:00.005-06:00

Just what the doctor ordered. Sunday's game was a playoff game during the regular season if there ever was one. All the Giants needed to do was win and punch their ticket to the playoffs. They still had a strong shot at the NFC East. The Packers needed to win their last two to make it. Nothing much needs to be said about the game - the Packers kicked the Giants' asses up and down the field.

The Giants played like a bunch of bitches out there.

There's not much to recap about the game itself. If you'd like a recap, go watch footage of the Ken Norton/Gary Coleman fight from Dirty Work. Yesterday's game was a reenactment.

Observations

1. The following players have considerable swag
- QB Aaron Rodgers. Anytime you're able to poke fun at suffering two debilitating injuries this season by signaling you were 'safe' after a slide, you're just swinging your pedestrian-yet-potent Caucasian pecker at the opposition. He had a near-flawless game, doing pretty much everything asked of him. As long as Rodgers remains healthy, the Packers should be considered contenders in every game they play, including the Super Bowl.
- NT BJ Raji. This motherfucker has 6.5 sacks on the year and is a shoo-in for the Pro Bowl, as is sack celebration from Sunday might indicate. With all of the injuries incurred on defense this season, his stable presence cannot be overstated.
- CB Charles Woodson and Omnipotent Creator Clay Fucking Matthews. Each activated their swag boost by causing key fumbles yesterday. I think Clay made a few mental errors yesterday, but his hustle on the Jacobs fumble more than made up for it. I expect that all four of the guys listed so far will be going to Hawaii.
- LB Desmond Bishop. Complete heads-up play to bat the ball back into the field of play behind his back on the Jacobs fumble. He has stepped in very capably in the wake of all of the injuries to the LB core. Should certainly compete for a starting spot next year.
- LT Chad Clifton. Much like he did against Jared Allen earlier in the year, Clifton was on an island against Osi Umenyiora and Jason Pierre-Paul, allowing the line to help swag-deficient RT Bryan Bulaga double Justin Tuck. Osi and JPP combined for 2 solo and 2 assisted tackles on the day.
- RB John Kuhn. Cult hero and conversion machine. He may not have the ups of LeGarrette Blount, but he's been leaping his way into the hearts of the Green Bay faithful for weeks now.

Eat it, Carl Lewis

2. The Packers should fear nobody in the postseason. Grant and Finley would be really nice right now, but it looks as though the Packers are finally able to use Kuhn effectively enough to open things up on the goal line. I expect the Packers to beat Chicago on Sunday, and will be rooting for the Falcons and Buccaneers the next two weeks in hopes of getting the five seed, earning the right to play the NFC west winner. I'd say there's about a 10% chance of that happening, but hey, that's better than nothing.

3. The coaching vacancies are lining up such that it may be tough for Capers to find a head coaching gig despite the abundance of opportunities. He won't get hired in Carolina or Houston, both of whom will have vacancies. It's entirely possible that Leslie Frazier and Jason Garrett retain their current positions. Jon Gruden, Bill Cowher, John Fox, and Jim Harbaugh should all be more attractive choices than Capers. That leaves maybe one or two openings for Capers to vie for, favorable odds for Packer fans. I obviously wish him nothing but the best, but we packer fans deserve a good deal of selfishness right now.

The Greinke Deal

2010-12-20T23:00:00.002-06:00

I finally have a computer again folks. Let's see if we can't get back into the swing of blogging. And what better way to start than by dissecting the Greinke trade - one that for better or worse will be remembered for a very long time here in Milwaukee.

The consensus seems to be that the Brewers made a good trade in acquiring Zack Greinke from the Royals in exchange for Jake Odorizzi, Jeremy Jeffress, Alcides Escobar and Lorenzo Cain. I would like to confirm that belief for you all by stressing two main concepts: (1) the premium of star-level players and (2) competitive windows.

The recent transactions by the Boston Red Sox, and I suppose you could say their entire management technique the past several seasons, shows what good teams need to do to win. First, you must develop home-grown talent to get some star players and depth to fill voids. Then you should spend all resources available to obtain other star players. A team should not throw money around on the free agent market to acquire talent that 25 other teams fill with a guy making $400,000 a season. The point here is that star-level talent is what separates contenders from bad teams. It is damn hard to find, damn hard to keep, and for a team like the Brewers, utterly impossible to acquire in free agency. Its all about supply and demand. Zack Greinke is without a doubt a star player. Yes, he did not have his best season last year. But a disappointing season from him probably would have been good for a 3.50 ERA in the NL Central. And his 2009 season would have been good for a 1.80 season in the NL Central. There wasn't an injury last year, and there is not a real worry about Greinke declining. He is a star player.

The supply of Zack Greinke type players is at most 10. There was one similar player on the free agent market this offseason - Cliff Lee. Lee made four times more than what the Brewers are committed to with Greinke, albeit for a few more years. The supply of Zack Greinkes is exceptionally low. Meanwhile, the demand for him could not be higher. All 30 teams would take Greinke for the money he is making - $13.5 per year. In a pure economic setting not riddled with nonsensical historic contracts, Greinke would earn $30M per season.

For as much as I love prospects and how valuable they are over their 6.5 seasons of early career slavery, I don't share the same sentiments for any of the Brewers players trade away here as I do for Greinke. These guys are not stars. I never imagined Escobar as a star player, and for all his hype, he was one of the worst players in baseball last season. To expect him to become a star player within the next five years is wishful thinking. The guy can't hit. His defense took a step back this year, and I expect if he ever put on the weight needed to be a legitimate MLB hitter, he'd sacrifice a good portion of the one thing making him a major leaguer - his defense. I just don't see him becoming anything more than a good, not great player, and that's if he progresses significantly. There are 40 other guys like him right now. Even if he progresses, I'd say at his peak there are still 10 guys in the league who could replicate his performance. Meanwhile, there are only 30 shortstops who start in MLB. So, demand is not all that high for a guy like Escobar. If he hit the free agent market at his peak, he probably wouldn't make 1/3 of what Greinke would make. And I know the Brewers would have Escobar for 5 years as opposed to 2 for Greinke, but do you honestly think Escobar is going to be a major asset before 2013? Again, that's if he ever develops, which I'm not optimistic he will.

Everything about Escobar can be said about Lorenzo Cain. I applaud his bounce back last season. He had a great season. But he plays a more offensive minded position than Escobar. And there are a lot of really good CFs in the game. Cain may turn into a nice CF, but it's really hard to imagine him being a star. When contracts are handed out to CFs, it's the guys who can hit home runs and do everything that Cain does who get the premium money. Cain's ceiling just isn't that high because he won't have power. So, again, he is replaceable. Star players are not replaceable.

Jeffress and Odorizzi are a bit different in that they are pitchers, so the demand for them is considerable higher. But Jeffress's ceiling is as a good, not great, closer. And Odorizzi is barely a top-50 pitching prospect. While I like him more than most, the reality is that he's unlikely to ever be an impact player in MLB. Far less likely is he to be a star. And as I've repeated over and over, it's the star players that you need to contend because average players can be acquired so easily internally or through free agency.

Realizing that the Brewers traded quantity to get quality, the key to this trade ultimately is the Brewers' competitive window.

The Brewers now have a legitimate chance to win something in 2011 and a slight chance to win in 2012. Without Greinke, they would have had less than a 10% chance in 2011 and less than 5% in 2012 in my opinion. Greinke has pushed those odds upwards of 33% for 2011. Though that may seem small (and you're welcome to disagree), the reality is it is high enough to make an impact, and it is probably almost 4 times more likely that they compete this year with Greinke than without him. But what does this mean for 2013 and beyond? Well, the Brewers are fucked. Like, historically fucked. They have the worst farm system I can recall in my approximately 15 years of following farm systems. They have only two good players under contract for 2013 and probably 15 roster spots to fill with no hope of doing it through the minor leagues. I would be surprised if they didn't lose over 100 games at least once between 2013 and 2015.

But the key here is that Escobar, Jeffress, Odorizzi and Cain would not make a single bit of difference in those seasons. The Brewers already have a terrible farm system (which I would argue was easily the worst in baseball before this trade). So, what good does keeping them around do? The window is open. It will be open for 1 or maybe 2 years. And it will then slam closed. Very hard. There is no point in keeping 4 mid-level talents around to help the Brewers win 66 games in 2014. Why bother?

And with the window so clearly closing, it seems imminent that the Brewers will rebuild rather than try to compete after the next two seasons. I welcome this as much as I welcome the competitiveness I now expect for 2011. The Brewers may have 15 first round and supplemental first round picks in the next 3 years. That is an awfully good way to start the process of rebuilding. Add to that the fact that they will have almost $60M in annual salary off the books by then. That's a lot of money available to draft and sign the best players available. Hell, they could even sign an international player or two. The clean break from competition to rebuilding will be a great opportunity. And, even assuming the worst, that the Brewers are not in competition this year and everything falls apart, they can start trading away and rebuilding right there. Because they have so many quality chips in demand from other teams, they could accelerate the rebuilding if things went wrong.

The Brewers should have won 76 games last year. The Reds should have won 89. The Cardinals should have won 85. Have the Brewers effectively gained 13 games in the standings? Using last year's stats, Greinke and Marcum (about 55 VORP combined) replace (Davis, Suppan and Bush (-33 VORP combined). Alone, that's 9 wins. With more innings from the new guys, you can also eliminate some of the losses guys like Marco Estrada and Manny Parra provided. With any bounce back from Greinke, the acquisitions could be worth 12 or 13 more games. That puts the Brewers right on top of the Reds. Of course, the margin of error is exceptionally thin for the Brewers. They have no backup players anywhere and no help on the horizon from the minors. This is not the case with the Reds and Cardinals. But, hopefully the Brewers' bullpen additions by subtraction result in enough to overcome some anticipated declines and injuries. It should be really interesting, and it's one last shot for the Brewers to do something we all expected a lot more of when Weeks, Fielder, Braun, Hart, and Gallardo broke through 5 years ago.

HOLY SHIT! Brewers land socially anxious, yet talented arm

2010-12-19T09:39:00.002-06:00

Despite popular speculation, The Brewers were able to land the 2009 Cy Young Award winner from Kansas City. The Crew sent CF Lorenzo Cain, SS Alcides Escobar, P Jeremy Jeffress, and P Jake Odorizzi to the Royals, who were looking for some strength up the middle. KC also sent light hitting SS Yunieski Betancourt to Milwaukee. Of course, this solidifies the Brewers' rotation while leaving a gaping hole in CF.

Happy Birthday Aaron Rodgers

2010-12-02T17:01:00.000-06:00

Yes, Bub, pictures are for winners, Rodgers is clearly that.

Click here, zoom in and witness Rodgers' swag at his finest as he photobombs multiple on-field pictures.

Additional Week 12 Football Review

2010-11-29T13:07:00.002-06:00

Packers @ Falcons recap

2010-11-29T09:35:00.005-06:00

Note: There will be no pictures this week. Pictures are for winners.

Did the Packers choke?

This was the question that my brother and I were debating throughout the game. The answer is yes, but it wasn't so until the final 43 seconds that this happened. Yes, the Packers have a history of choking in big games under McCarthy. The two Vikings games last year, the Giants in 07, the Cardinals game last year (kinda), the Bears game this year, but they hung in, punch for punch, with the co-best team in the NFC at their place where they are incredibly hard to beat for 59:17 yesterday.

It's a game that should not have been in doubt, were it not for 1. a fluky fumble at the goal line that turned into a 14 point swing, 2. the challenge that wasn't on a critical 21 yard 4th down gain, wherein McCarthy repeatedly said his information came in too late and 3. Atlanta having the ball with 1:55 on the clock inside their own 5, and GB elected not to use either of its remaining timeouts. These are critical and disconcerting errors, but aren't evidence of an out and out choke job. Especially in light of the following:

Series 1

1st-1, GB1 0:40 J. Snelling rushed to the left for no gain

2nd-1, GB1 0:00 M. Turner rushed to the left for no gain

4th Quarter

Atlanta continued: 3rd-1, GB1 14:54 M. Ryan passed to T. Gonzalez to the right for no gain; 4th-1, GB1 14:24 M. Turner rushed to the left for 1 yard touchdown. M. Bryant made PAT

Yes, Atlanta scored a touchdown. However, the Defense picked up their gigantic sacks and gave it everything they had against enormous runningbacks and a talented receiving core. And if you watched the fourth down play, the DLine had enough push up the middle to force the play outside. Against that line and those backs, that's an accomplishment in and of itself, even if the result was undesirable (farts in the general direction of the linebacker/corner/safety failing to keep contain). The jumbo d-line package is so much nicer than having to play TJ lang in goal line situations. Again, the outcome wasn't desirable, but the execution was absolutely cause for optimism. You'll forget that Atlanta is the Co-best team in the NFC. You would expect that team to score from the 1 yard line given four plays against any defense (I think this is the point that the "choker" group forgets. Atlanta is really fucking good and sometimes things that don't go Green Bay's way are because Atlanta is really fucking good, not because Green Bay choked).

The second piece of contrary evidence should already be apparent. I will break it down in appropriate segments below and explain why it gives me such tremendous hope.

1st-10, GB10 5:54 B. Jackson rushed to the left for 5 yard gain

2nd-5, GB15 5:30 A. Rodgers passed to A. Quarless to the left for 11 yard gain

The drive starts off with a nice 5 yard run that nobody was expecting. The run hadn't been there all day and is obviously cause for concern, although everybody knew coming into the game that Atlanta's defense was incredibly stout against the run, while Green Bay's running game was feeble, at best. Rodgers followed this up with a pass to Quarless for a first down.

1st-10, GB26 5:07 A. Rodgers passed to B. Jackson to the left for no gain

2nd-10, GB26 4:31 Green Bay committed 5 yard penalty

People point to the false starts as chokes. You're on the road in a dome. It is going to happen, no matter how much you prepare for it. Fuck, even Rodgers fucked up a snap, maybe even the play before (I don't remember where in the sequence it happened, I just recall that he threw to Jackson in an awful hurry).

2nd-15, GB21 4:26 A. Rodgers passed to A. Quarless down the middle for 19 yard gain

Another first down pass to Quarless. I cannot emphasize enough how incredibly important it is that Quarless continues to develop as a reliable receiving option. With Finley out and Driver hurt, teams are going to turn a *ton* of attention to Jennings. Having a TE that can consistently get open and make great catches really opens up the offense for a team that can barely run out of the tunnel.

1st-10, GB40 3:45 B. Jackson rushed to the left for 8 yard gain

2nd-2, GB48 3:17 A. Rodgers rushed to the right for 7 yard gain

Rodgers is a stone cold killer. After a nice running play call to Jackson, which again only happens when you're passing so effectively nobody pays attention to the run, Rodgers moves in the pocket to keep the play going, and ultimately runs for a first down. I don't remember seeing a white quarterback with as much pocket presence as Rodgers has since Elway and Young.

1st-10, ATL45 3:13 A. Rodgers incomplete pass to the right

2nd-10, ATL45 3:08 A. Rodgers passed to G. Jennings to the right for 15 yard gain

Greg Jennings runs after the catch. Remember when he used to do that a few years ago? This play was anti-choke, although not as much as the upcoming 4th down.

1st-10, ATL30 2:45 A. Rodgers passed to B. Jackson down the middle for 9 yard gain

2nd-1, ATL21 2:14 A. Rodgers incomplete pass to the left

3rd-1, ATL21 2:11 A. Rodgers incomplete pass to the left

4th-1, ATL21 2:03 A. Rodgers passed to J. Jones down the middle for 18 yard gain

Aaron Rodgers is a stone cold killer. I mentioned it to E earlier in the game, that Rodgers has that ice-water-running-through-his-veins look, almost to the point of being catatonic, definitely to the point of looking indifferent like Jay Cutler. However, you could see on Rodgers' touchdown run that, unlike Cutler, he gives a flying fuck about scoring and winning, he just knows that getting nervous and worked up works against you in pressure situations. This play was the most un-choke play Rodgers could have possibly designed. It was Favrian. Rodgers flashed that elite pocket presence again dodging two certain sacks, made the only throw he could to a receiver that had broken off his route, and kept the drive alive. I watched the rest of the game proudly sporting a hardon.

1st-3, ATL3 1:54 A. Rodgers sacked by J. Abraham. A. Rodgers fumbled. A. Rodgers recovered fumble

Fuck. That's right. Atlanta's actually a good team. You can't always just score at will against good teams. Oh well, there are still three plays left and the Packers still have Aaron Rodgers.: 2nd-6, ATL6 1:52 A. Rodgers incomplete pass to the right; 3rd-6, ATL6 1:45 A. Rodgers passed to B. Jackson to the right for 1 yard gain; 4th-5, ATL5 1:06 Green Bay committed 5 yard penalty

Another false start. The crowd noise is clearly affecting the offense. However, as the announcers astutely point out, this opens up some lanes that wouldn't otherwise be there.You end up with 33% more field to work with.: 4th-10, ATL10 0:56 A. Rodgers passed to J. Nelson to the left for 10 yard touchdown. M. Crosby made PAT

Both lines are gassed. There are about 24 fat guys laying on the ground at the line of scrimmage, and Rodgers backs to his left, fires a rocket toward the sidelines (cue Jim Rome rocket noises) and completes a pass with very little room to work with. 16 plays, 5:54 off the clock. The drive wasn't flawless, but it was magnificent in its execution in the drive's most high leverage situations. It was as clutch as clutch can clutch. Fuck, even Crosby made his kick.

Then, the inevitable. Special teams goes and fucks it all up

Green Bay kicked off, E. Weems returned kickoff for 40 yards. Green Bay committed 15 yard penalty

The return to the 35 was bad enough, inexcusable even. A larger choke than the facemasking, to be sure. Decent coverage wouldn't have necessitated a tackle-Weems-at-all-costs approach, and would have left Atlanta at least 25 yards further from FG distance, which was difficult for them to approach in the first place. So yes, in short, the Packers choked, but it wasn't the offense, or defense. It was special teams, which, as I note in the observations section, is effectively culpable in all four of the Packers' losses to date. I have more thoughts on the game, but I've outlined them below in observations.

Observations

The Packers demonstrated that they and the Falcons are effectively the Co-best teams in the NFC. Atlanta has the best record and GB has the best point differential (and the best scoring defense in the NFL). With 5 to play, it will be essentially impossible for the Packers to get home field advantage. They're 1.5 back of Atlanta. However, as long as they take care of business, which means beating everybody but NE on the road, the Packers should end up with the 2 seed. That may very well mean a trip back to Atlanta for a potential NFC championship game, but I think this game was evidence that, at the very least, the Packers can hang with them punch for punch. Arguments to the contrary are grounds for institutionalization.
It's finally time for Shawn Slocum to take a long walk off a short pier. The special teams killed GB in two games against Minnesota last year and have killed them in ALL FOUR losses this year. TD return by Hester, missed FG as time expired against Washington, a *critical* lined up over the center penalty against Miami, and that pitiful kick coverage at the end of the game today. By all measures, both Green Bay's offense and defense have been above average-to-excellent in the last two seasons while the special teams have been abysmal, among the worst in the league.
Aaron Rodgers is a "championship" QB that doesn't have a championship yet. He has all the fucking swagger you could ever ask for. There are certain very good-to-excellent QBs that crumble when they know the pressure is on. We watched Favre do this for years in GB. Rodgers has begun to prove that he will not make those same mistakes when his back is against the wall. Incompletions are fine, turnovers are unacceptable, and he didn't make any quarterback turnovers yesterday (the fumble at the goalline is not a quarterback turnover). This gives me great hope that he can overcome #4
I still have doubts whether McCarthy is a championship coach. They continue to be in games in spite of themselves. Letting the clock expire in the first half is inexcusable. Time management at the end of the Bears game was inexcusable. The special teams are inexcusable. They've lost four games this year, all by a field goal. Those little things are what makes the difference between wins and losses in 3 point games. You don't get to face Dallas and Minnesota every week in the playoffs, and if your ultimate goal is to win the Super Bowl, you're going to have to win those close games. I would have lost all hope that McCarthy was ever going to improve those deficiencies, but they have significantly cut down on penalties in recent weeks, meaning there's a chance that he could improve in other areas as well.
All three goal line situations the Packers found themselves in yesterday emphasized how much they miss Jermichael Finley and Ryan Grant. They can't run the ball, especially in short yardage situations. Grant wasn't great, but he was 6'1 225 and could pick up a yard on 3 plays if he needed to. Obviously Finley was a prototypical mismatch that could be relied upon in 3rd and 4th and goal situations. The team has done a lot to overcome those injuries and deserves a ton of credit, but there are times where their absence is definitely apparent.
Roddy White was nowhere to be found yesterday. Obviously on a team with as much talent as Atlanta has, you're not going to be able to neutralize everybody, but the Packers held a guy averaging 8 catches and 100 yards per game to 5 and 49. A definite victory for the secondary.
AJ Hawk sucks. He blew several tackles in key situations and I want to say he was responsible for not maintaining the defensive right side on Turner's 4th down TD. Another area where GB really misses the injured starter.
The Bears are a legitimate threat, but their victory yesterday was the preferable outcome. As I mentioned in point 1, winning home field will be tough being 1.5 games behind Atlanta, but getting a playoff bye is just as important as winning home field. Obviously nobody out west will be earning a bye, so the 2 seed will come down to the winner of the east and north. Green Bay already holds a tiebreaker against philly thanks to a head-to-head victory, and still plays the Giants at home the day after Christmas, a game the Packers should win. As long as the Packers can take the north with at least 11 wins, they should secure the #2 seed. The issue then becomes winning the north. Chicago is 1.5 games ahead of Green Bay right now (how did that happen?) with road games against the three division opponents and home games against New England and NYJ. The Bears need to win out to win the division. Losses in any of those games, *especially* if GB beats NE and Detroit, will be devastating to tie-breakers for the bears. Assuming GB can beat Chicago at home on Jan 2, that would put them even, ceteris paribus. First tiebreaker is record within the division, which would be 5-1, assuming both teams win out. Then it comes down to common games. Chicago's remaining games are all common and/or within the division, so losses become critical.
Point is, yesterday's loss hurt because it didn't have to be a loss, but it didn't hurt the overall picture for the Packers. If they keep it together and take care of business, 11-5 and a 2 seed should be well within their grasp. They proved yesterday that they can go into Atlanta and hang with the Falcons, so a trip to the Super Bowl at this juncture isn't totally out of the question

That's a lot of typing. I think it makes sense. Let me know your thoughts in the comments.

Packers - Vikings game recap

2010-11-22T10:44:00.007-06:00

Those of you that regularly email me about the Packers - notably Condescendy and my family members, know that I thought the Packers would win this one easily as Minnesota was in the same state of disarray as the Cowboys were before their game against Green Bay. I think I speak for the blog when I say that the first quarter was quite worrisome and the rest of the game was awkwardly erotic. The defense was lights out. The offense scored at will. Fuck, even Jarrett Bush effectively blocked a field goal with an acting-job-and-flag-call. You know they've been working on that.

Favre congratulates Jennings on his big game, talks about his plans for his daughter's birthday.

It's evident right now that the Packers are, how you say, firing on all cylinders. Everybody knew this was a great team in the offseason. When you put up 59 points on the defending AFC champs and say you didn't play all that well offensively, well you're pretty fucking good. Dom Capers once again showed that his penis is about two feet thick. 10 points in the last three games. Think about that for a second. They've lost 7 defensive players to IR this season, 3 starters, 3 guys that filled in for injured starters, and Justin Harrell. And they have allowed one pretty cheap touchdown in three weeks. I have more to say about this in the "observations" section below, but it's going to be difficult to beat a defense that eye rapes you for sixty minutes. Especially one that can put 1,000 pounds of man in a 3 man front.

Dom Capers makes Han Solo look like a pussy.

The best part about the win is that the Vikings are clearly finished, and the Packers dealt the fatal blow. Sure, Minnesota got the best of things last year, but drew no championship blood. They're effectively five games back of Green Bay with six to play, and are an out and out mess. Aaron Rodgers must feel pretty fucking good about that.

There were about six players on defense that deserve credit for their contributions yesterday - Woodson, Jenkins, Raji, Collins, Williams, and, of course, Matthews.

Fucking shower in that shit

Observations

Cullen Jenkins' hand injury was a conspiracy among NFL quarterbacks to try to save their own lives. The man is a terror with two good hands and was in on more plays than anybody yesterday.
Greg Jennings has stopped Sean Foxing it on the field following Jermichael Finley's injury. For those that didn't make the St. Francis Borgia 8th grade boys basketball team, you won't understand the reference. Sean was the most talented guy on the team, but if he ended up getting frustrated - team losing, bad players around him, substitutions, etc - he'd stop trying. I think we experienced that as Jermichael Finley took over the #1 target role with the Packers. In his absence, Jennings has made the plays he used to make with Favre as his quarterback and has really made the void left by Finley more tolerable.
James Jones has realized how to realize his potential. I heard a few commentators say that Jones had #1 receiver stuff earlier this season, but never understood why they'd say that. He was maddeningly inconsistent. However, I think it's because he could be. He was the #3 receiver and #4 option on the offense. He didn't have to bring his A game, so it didn't matter whether he did or didn't. Kind of like playing 2B behind a massive strikeout/flyball pitcher - you just let your skills lax a bit cause you won't be fielding balls anyway. When Driver went down, Jones became the #2 option, realized he had to stop fucking around, and has played very well since. As with Jennings, I hope this behavior continues even as the situation fails to persist.
Tramon Williams has played pro-bowl caliber corner. He came close to ending Greg Lewis' life, and ever since the Baltimore game last season he has cut down on his penalties and touchdowns allowed. He could use a big game against the Falcons or Pats (national TV) to showcase his abilities and make a case for the Pro Bowl, but know that, at this point, he's earned it.
The Packers running game is barely enough to get by, but they definitely need to have Nance contribute in short yardage. I think this season makes people realize Ryan Grant was better than we appreciated. I don't think Brandon Jackson is Carnell Williams bad, but I don't recall him making a single impressive play all season. Grant could at least string a few of those together every now and again. Further, he can't pick up extra yardage, which is something we saw Nance do on a 3rd and 1 yesterday. Success, especially in the playoffs, will depend upon being able to pick up short yardage 3rd downs like that. Nance is the only RB that has proven he can do it (Rodgers is also rather effective).
The defensive player of the year award is Clay Fucking Matthews' to lose. He had a great game on national TV against Dallas and nobody will shut up about how great he is. There isn't another compelling defensive story out there, so unless Derelle Revis absolutely goes off against the Patriots or something, expect the award to remain in Green Bay this year.
Brian Bulaga is not playing very good football right now, but this rookie class may still go down as Thompson's most talented. 2005 had Rodgers and Collins and 2009 had Matthews, Brad Jones, and Raji, but the depth this class is assembling is frigtening. Brian Bulaga will be a starter, even if he never ends up being a cornerstone left tackle. Sam Shields will take over as #2 corner as soon as the organization realizes Charles Woodson is a more effective safety than a corner. Provided they remain healthy, Morgan Burnett and Mike Neal should be starting, or at least regular contributors. Frank Zombo has stepped up well with the injuries at linebacker, and Andrew Quarless has all the swag necessary to be a great target at TE. This kind of success is the reason the Packers have been able to sustain 11 season-ending injuries and still be the best team in the conference.
The Packers are the best team in the conference. Just try to prove otherwise. Were it not for a serious string of horrendous breaks, they could very realistically be undefeated right now, and even with those breaks they have lost three games by a combined nine points, two of them in overtime.

**Editors note** As I was typing this, the Vikings formally fired Brad Childress. Childress joins Kevin Kolb, Trent Edwards, and Wade Phillips as chum in the Packers' wake. Fuck you, the rest of the league

Week 10 Vikings/Bears Preview

2010-11-12T10:00:00.000-06:00

ESPN reports leading up to the game this week indicate the trouble in the Vikings locker room...

Video taken of the Bears' running backs practice this week was equally discouraging...

Thankfully, your friends at BCS have already obtained the outcome to Sunday's game and have provided the recap below to spare its loyal readers the agony of actually having to watch this clusterf*ck of a game.

Cowboys @ Packers Game recap

2010-11-09T12:41:00.012-06:00

I'm going to try to recap games sometime early in the week going forward as people seem to be interested and there exists potential for discussion. The game really had so many high points, one may not know where to begin.

Pictured above: Some slut; and, the NFL's premier Clown Rapist, Clay Fucking Matthews III

We'll begin by discussing Clay Fucking Matthews III, who, with his performance in Sunday Night's game, earned an honor bestowed upon only the most accomplished humans at their particular endeavor, including Yngwie Fucking Malmsteen and Rob Fucking Deer. Matthews was a total and complete terror on the Cowboys. His one sack and single-interception-returned-62-yards-for-a-touchdown don't begin to do his performance justice. He knocked the black out of Marion Barber III. He changed the way an entire offense had to approach their game. Despite not being his best performance of the season (hello Philadelphia), Sunday night was his coming out party as it was on national television. Should he keep this pace up, he will garner serious (deserved) consideration for the defensive player of the year award. Now if he could just figure out how to jump into the damn stands and stop embarrassing the rest of us.

Packers Defensive Coordinator and Eternal Bosom of Hot Love Dom Capers poses with tag-teammate Clay Fucking Matthews III after dominating the Hart Foundation at Wrestlemania VII. Check the record books, it's fucking in there.

I would like to lead the blog in a prayer that Dom Capers never gets an itch to be a head coach again. Frankly, the guy was an awful head coach. He had one playoff appearance (albeit with a very good Carolina team), but has a career 37.5% winning percentage. The man has found his niche, and head coach is not it. However, the motherfucker can coach a defense.

For those that were unaware, the motherfucker can coach a fabled underdog hockey team, too.

...he even taught Sam Shields how to finally catch the ball

Capers has done more with less than any coach I have ever seen. He's missing Burnett, Barnett, Martin, Jones, Neal, Poppinga, and Harrell, all for the year. He's been without Atari Bigby and Al Harris (Swag in Peace, brotha) all season. Brandon Chillar, CFM III, Cullen Jenkins, and Ryan Pickett have all missed games (for those counting at home, that's five linebackers and three strong safeties). And the man keeps on adjusting. His strategic approach is unmatched.

Look at all those fucking queens

He's been using offensive linemen in goal line situations and put an undrafted rookie free agent on one of the best receivers in football on Sunday. The results? The Packers have allowed 7 points in the last 8 quarters. They're second in the league in PPG at 15.9. Just wrap your head around that for a second. 6 players on IR and two more on the PUP list, and they're second in PPG against.

The offense finally clicked, too, but that's due as much to playing a defeated Dallas team as it is to any success on the offense's part.

Even Condescendy couldn't doctor those stats to make them look better, Mike

Phillips admitted constipation contributed to his struggles and eventual firing

Romo watches Sunday night's debacle comfortably from the sidelines

Rodgers had a near flawless day, with most of his incompletions coming inside the Dallas 10, where space becomes a premium. James Jones clearly had an "up" day with 123 yards and a TD. Jennings is stepping in nicely as Rodgers' #1 option with Finley out. Even the running game looked rather effective with almost 4 yards per carry. The offense can still play, it has just taken the players some time to adjust to life without Grant, Finley, and Tauscher. The Packers are *still* the only team with their #1 RB on IR, and have been without him since the first half of week 1. I believe the Colts are the only other team with their #1 TE on IR, but please don't quote me on that just yet. Really a remarkable performance all around, and a testament to the depth that Ted Thompson has been able to accumulate as GM. (Remember when we wanted Marshawn Lynch? He's averaging 3.1 YPC in Seattle).

Rodgers, Sitton and Kuhn sky high celebrating their victory

Finally, and potentially most importantly, the NFC looks very winable. Recall that everybody lauded the Giants as NFC title favorites after their 41-35 win over Dallas. They fucking gave up 35 points to Dallas! The Packers lead the NFL in Net Points at +78 (albeit through playing 9 games and not 8. Tennessee leads the league with +9.25 net PPG, the Packers have +8.67). The Packers can and should beat every team in the NFC. The only place I really see them vulnerable is to Philadelphia with a mobile quarterback and blitz-heavy defensive scheme. From there, they probably aren't as good as several AFC teams, but it only takes a chip and a chair to have a chance of winning one game.

We'll Miss You Al

2010-11-08T14:23:00.003-06:00

Bub is supposed to be posting a recap of yesterday's clown raping, but thought I should give one last shout out to Al Harris.

I know I'm a couple days late in posting this

2010-11-05T10:32:00.004-05:00

But in case there was any doubt, John Wall received the blog's endorsement for NBA rookie of the year after exactly three games.

As his swag would indicate, he went on to swarm for 29 points, 13 assists, and 9 steals.

I didn't want to do two back to back, but I have been sitting on this for a while

2010-10-31T19:06:00.001-05:00

Also, I told Percy I'd do this.

World Series

2010-10-28T19:44:00.003-05:00

If the Brewers ever make the World Series, I fully expect one of the lawyers in the group will be forced to write a similar letter.

http://pdfserver.amlaw.com/tx/irving_motion.pdf

On another note, I would like to comment on Condescendy's thoughts on the lack of Hendy participation.

Obviously, I did not participate much in this years Hendys, and I do blame Jeff Suppan. The presence of Jeff Suppan on the Brewers roster this year put a foul taste in my mouth to start the season. Suppan had stunk up the Brewers rotation for the last three seasons, and yet come opening day he was still on the roster because they didn't want to eat his contract. Everyone knew the guy was going to be terrible, and yet he was still there.

So I started the season frustrated with the organization and ended up not watching/caring much about the Brewers this season. This translated in to less hatred for players, and less enthusiasm for the Hendys.

Therefore, I feel its fitting that Jeff Suppan win the Hendy this year.

Perhaps next season, starting the season out Suppan free will inspire more hatred...

2010 Hendy Award Winner - Jeff Suppan

2010-10-27T14:56:00.003-05:00

I think we've seen enough. By virtue of a resounding victory in our first ever state-your-hate tiebreaker, Jeff Suppan has become the first ever repeat Hendy champion.

May god have mercy on all our souls if Suppan ever gets a chance to win a third.

2010 Hendies: HATE OFF!!!

2010-10-26T00:41:00.006-05:00

Here it is. For the first time ever, we've got a hate off for the Hendy winner. My entry is below. Remember, the winner will be determined based on the hateful arguments put forth by you the voters.

Packers v. Vikings

2010-10-22T09:51:00.005-05:00

In case you have forgotten, and judging by the attendance you have, to vote in the Hendies, please do so below.

The Packers season hinges on this game. A win and the entire season has been a success and they look like favorites to win the division. A loss and it's really hard to imagine them going anywhere. A loss and a career-ending hit on Favre by Clay Matthews? Well, that would be a nice consolation for the loss. A win with a career ending hit on Favre by Clay Matthews? There I'd literally ejac' through my pants.

Packers are 3-point favorites, meaning oddsmakers essentially believe these teams are equal. What do you think?

2010 Hendies - The Feces Four

2010-10-18T13:02:00.007-05:00

BANDO DIVISION CHAMPION

LaTroy Hawkins

LOPES DIVISION CHAMPION

Jeff Suppan

TAYLOR DIVISION CHAMPION

Carlos Gomez

YOST DIVISION CHAMPION

Manny Parra

Like last year, we are going to do this in round robin format. Everyone left will face off against everyone else one time. If there's a tie, we go to the head-to-head results between the two players that are tied. If they're still tied, we go to the usual "state your hate" tiebreaker.

Matchups:

Hawkins v. Suppan

Hawkins v. Gomez

Hawkins v. Parra

Suppan v. Gomez

Suppan v. Parra

Gomez v. Parra

2010 Hendies - The Excrement Eight

2010-10-14T09:16:00.003-05:00

Things are starting to heat up. We're just one round away from the Feces Four. Let's get some hate out, folks.

BANDO DIVISION

LaTroy Hawkins (2) v.
Marco Estrada (1)

LOPES DIVISION

Jody Gerut (3) v.
Jeff Suppan (1)

TAYLOR DIVISION

Carlos Gomez (7) v.
Doug Davis (1)

YOST DIVISION

Manny Parra (3) v.
Dave Bush (1)

2010-10-13T10:06:00.000-05:00

2010 Hendies - The Sewer Sixteen

2010-10-12T10:30:00.002-05:00

This is starting to get real good.

BANDO DIVISION

LaTroy Hawkins (2) v.
Chris Dickerson (3)

Adam Stern (4) v.
Marco Estrada (1)

LOPES DIVISION

Gregg Zaun (7) v.
Jody Gerut (3)

Alcides Escobar (4) v.
Jeff Suppan (1)

TAYLOR DIVISION

Carlos Gomez (7) v.
Mitch Stetter (3)

David Riske (5) v.
Doug Davis (1)

YOST DIVISION

Claudio Vargas (2) v.
Manny Parra (3)

Luis Cruz (5) v.
Dave Bush (1)