HAPPY NEW YEARS

The Floss assumes all responsibility for the 11 day layoff. Surveys are in and the readership has dropped 50%. All kidding aside, the Floss is ready to set some resolutions for the "Great '08". This is a good name for the year the Steelers get the 6th Super Bowl. This was going to also include Pitt making the Final 4, but we all know what happened to that team. 10 Resolutions for a "Great '08"

10. Find the cheerleader who took out Levance's ankle and kill her. Seriously.

9. Stop being such a girl about eating a 3 pound hamburger.

8. Line up at Center for the Steelers. (Mahan needs a kick in the ass)

7. Completely go through with the plan to have a boozefest on National Letter of Intent Day, which is Feb. 6th, 2008(Great '08 when TPry commits). 36 days away. If TPry commits, you can double my tab on the 72 hour coke binge. (Note: The 72 hour coke binge was a promise from me during the 2nd quarter of the Backyard Brawl)

6. Don't gamble on sports for a whole year. (Personal resolution, after football it shouldn't be too tough)

5. Celebrate my first St. Patricks Day. Never drank for it in high school. Stayed in to study last year. I wanna drink some green beer for the first time.

4. 3 roadtrips for Pitt football games. This is a big one. I wanna go to Notre Lame and beat up on some Catholics. I don't know where number 2 is, it is the big question mark(Cinci, maybe Cuse). Number 3 will be a bowl game. I have wanted to go to a bowl game since I started following Pitt football. This should be a resolution for the Pitt football team as well.

3. Pay no attention to the '08 election. As long as Hillary Cunton doesn't win, I really don't care. Seriously, I don't care.

2 a. This is a 3 part resolution. Stop being such a negative sports fan.
2 b. Disacciote with all yinzers who thought that the Steelers loss to Baltimore was a result of bad play, not the players just not giving a shit. This basically means I can't talk to any family members over 30.
2 c. Riot after the Steelers win the Super Bowl(stopping the negativity).

1. Update the Floss 3 times a week in a "Great '08". When people go to review 2008, I want them to say, "I remember that year, it was the year of the Floss".

PITT HOOPS

The Dayton game is one loss, but Levance Fields injury will be many many more losses. I have no idea what this Pitt team will be able to do without him. Honestly, I don't think they are a tourney team without him. Brad Wannamaker is the key. If he can step up into superstardom right now, this team can win enough to make it to March. It really f-ing sucks that the Pitt team has lost 40% of its starters in 2 games. 60% if you factor in that Ronald Ramon has been so non-existant.

PITTSBURGH STEELER TIME

I may be out on a limb very alone here, but I am fine with the Steelers performance yesterday. I said all week I wanted rest for the players, which the offensive unit got. The defensive performance was mainly starters, but the defense has been bad and I don't know if they even wanted to play yesterday. How much fire could they have played with yesterday? I don't think the Jagoffs can come and beat us in Heinz Field for the 2nd time in a month. Ain't gonna happen.

Happy New Year

LETS GO PITT

This is probably the best Thursday in terms of sports of the year(maybe first day of the tourney is better). First Pitt vs. Duke at the Garden at 7 and then Steelers vs. Rams at 8:15(Navy vs. Utah in the Poinsetta Bowl too). Tomorrow should probably be considered one of the many hangover days built into your work schedule. A case of beer and a large pizza per person, lock it up, write it down, championship. Tonight could have four possible outcomes: Super Shitty(Steelers and Pitt loss), Shitty(Steelers win and Pitt loss), Great but Empty(Pitt huge win early, Steelers choke late), and Fuck Yeah(Pitt wins and Steelers win). FUCK YEAH.

PITT-DUKE MATCHUPS

Fields-Paulus: This matchup will go Fields way as the most overrated player in cbb will be exposed once again. Fields is quicker and will force turnovers all game. However, if Ramon guards him, it will be a different story as Ramon is slow and reaches often.

Ramon-Henderson: This matchup is really tough for Pitt. I don't think Ramon is anywhere near Henderson in athleticism or quickness. Ramon best be stroking the threes or he will not get many minutes tonight. Look for Gil Brown, Benj, and Wannamaker to get a lot of minutes b/c of their size and defensive ability.

Cook-Nelson: Up til the Ok. St. game, I was worried about this matchup, but now not so much. Cook did a great job guarding James Anderson, who is longer and better than Nelson. Nelson has been stroking the three ball this year, which is a concern. I still like Cook to play well tonight.

Young-Singler: What Sam Young is doing this year has been special, even if a lot of his points were against lesser teams. On defense he is suspect. He can make the big block, but he doesn't have very good lateral quickness. Singler hasn't impressed me much all year. Unless Singler is stroking it from deep, Sam Young shouldn't have a prob guarding him.

Blair-Zubek or Thomas: Blair will own either one of these two. Blair will be absolutely dominant tonight, but Dixon must watch Blair close. The Dookies will be flopping all over the court b/c Dejuan loves putting body on players. Dixon CAN'T let Blair get 2 quick fouls. Zubek and Thomas are about as solid offensively as a MAC level player.

I think Pitt will win b/c that is the homer in me. I also think Levance truly plays one of the best games of his career tonight. Howver, the one thing that scares me is bench play. Dixon has been very hesitant in playing his bench all year. Biggs should give solid defensive minutes and 5 fouls. Benjamin WILL have a huge game tonight. Probably like 12 points and 5 boards in 20 min. Brown has seen his time cut recently and he looked nervous at the Pete last Saturday. I hope he comes to play on the big stage in NYC. We need Gil for defense. Wannamaker and Diggs haven't played in the last 2 games, which was a huge mistake by Dixon. They will probably need to play each around 6 to 8 big minutes tonight. They could be the difference in a W or L because thats how even these teams matchup. When its all said and done I still like Pitt.

Pitt 77

Duke 72

GRAYZILLA

Aaron Gray recorded his first career double-double last night in Washington. Aaron Gray had 10 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists in 29 minutes of action. Never saw this coming. Congratuaflossinlations.

STEELERS VS. RAMS

Truly lost in all the Pitt-Duke hype in my life are the 9-5 Steelers. How spoiled has Pittsburgh become with the Steelers? They are 9-5 under first year coach Mike Tomlin and fans are going ape shit. They are favored tonight against the Rams and will be against Baltimore next week. Win these 2 games, 11-5. Who wouldn't have been happy with 11-5 at the beginning of the year? If they finish at 11-5(Floss thinks so) they will be the 3 or 4 seed. 3 or 4, it doesn't matter, we aren't shitting the bed at home in the playoffs against the Brownies or Jagoffs. Then to Indy or New England, again probably doesn't matter, both likely losses. The season would not be a disappointment unless the team loses the division to the Brownies. If that happens, all of Pittsburgh will be jumping off the Clemente Bridge. The Steelers WILL execute tonight, and they WILL WIN.

STEELERS 31

RAMS 21

PI-TT......Here we go Steelers

TILA FINALE RECAP

I wanted all of my thoughts from tonights Tila fresh, so here goes the closest thing to a live blog that you will ever get. Going into the season finale, I thought Dani was a lock. Not so fast my friend. Bobby pulled what some analysts are calling an upset of Stanford-USC proportions(not quite Brawl worthy). The finale started with Tila showing Bobby and Dani what her "career" is like. Tila has about as much singing talent as the Floss in the shower. Then she gave the contestants a chance in the studio. It was a freestyle while sober, nearly impossible. Bobby was probably the whitest rapper I have ever heard. It was painful. As described by T, "I feel second hand embarassment". Dani came in and killed it. She could rhyme and seemed to not want to stab her eyeballs out like Bobby did. I thought this segment was just another example of Dani being the right fit for Tila. Next she invited both families to her house for dinner, funny thing is it really isn't her house. Why do reality shows think all viewers are morons? This segment was boring other than Tila dancing on stripper poles. Honestly, if Tila was a stripper, it would be 10000000000 times more believable than her being a singer. She is much better on a stripper pole than in a recording studio. Her singing "manager" also looked like an illegal immigrant who could definitely run a strip club, I'm just saying. The families coming was a dumb time killer. Then it was on to the last 2 dates. Dani was up first and gave Tila some stupid ass gift with her phone number in some keychain dealy. This was lame, but you could see that their date was going well and that Dani clearly had a lead. So it was time for Bobby to step it up. I wanted Bobby to make up some much needed ground in this war. He comes into the date with his present. I predicted something lame. He went with a songbook or some stupid journal that looked like a burlap sack. Her comment is "I have something just like this". So his creative gift, the only chance he had left, just backfired. I thought it was over, but Bobby hung in there. He had fun and had "the kiss everyone hopes for". He should have phrased that as, "the kiss that everyone waits for on bullshit reality shows". Going into the finale everything was set up for a Dani victory. T was saying the whole time, this is all setting up for a Dani victory, but Bobby is going to win. He pointed out that many reality shows had the exact same spin on the episode to create more drama. Bobby utters right before the final ceremony that he isn't confident at all. After that, I should have known that line was set up. I still didn't believe it. I thought Dani and Tila were headed to lesbian paradise. Then Tila picks Bobby, who was as stunned as I. Dani reacted like a professional. I was happy the way she handled herself after the loss. To put it into perspective, how many lesbian dating shows have ever been on TV? Zero. How much notoriety will she get amongst the gay and lesbian community? A ton. She will be the god damn Jessica Simpson of dykes. She will be pulling soo much pussy that she will probably go straight. Tila and Bobby will probably not be together after the show is over because of the long layoff. This show had a great run and hopefully another similar show will air. In related reality TV show news, mid January Rock of Love returns. Rock of Love II with Bret Michaels is a lot better than Tila and involves way more boozing and way more sluts. Booyah.

GET EXCITED

"They put a lot of players in the league, and it's a good test. I can't wait. I'm not going sleep at night while I'm thinking about this game, so it's going to be a fun game. I'm going to have fun, so you'll see a lot of smiling. Duke didn't recruit me at all, so that's another reason why I'm going to go off on them."--Pitt Star Freshman Dejuan Blair

PI-TT

THE HAMBURGLAR

The Floss is ready to take his show on the road. Literally, I'm talking road trip. Currently, I am sitting at home wanting to poke my eyeballs out because everyday here is so boring. Why not road-trip-it? This just isn't going to be a road trip, it's going to be an experience for the ages. The town is Clearfield, PA. North of State College, east of Pittsburgh, 2 hours and 14 minutes from Murrysville. The destination of the trip, Denny's Beer Barrel Pub(http://www.dennysbeerbarrelpub.com/). They are home to the World's Largest Cheeseburger. They have 4 types of challenge burgers, a two-pounder, a three-pounder, the Ye Olde 96'er(6 pounds), and a fifteen pound burger(2 people). They also have over a fifty pound burger and an over 100 pound burger that is 379.95! Picking the burger to eat is the most important decision. I don't care if I win the challenge, I just want a respectable effort. I don't actually think I could make the wall of fame because I refuse to eat all that is on the burger. I don't eat pickles, lettuce, mayo, mustard or relish. Call me a Plain Jane. Their Wall of Fame means nothing to me. In setting this goal, I need to be realistic yet also optimistic. A little known fact about the Floss, in 10th grade I polished off a 1 1/4 lb burger that was a giant. Since 10th grade, I have gotten fatter and wiser. Basically I see three burger options, so I have to pick the best option for me. I think it all boils down to this:

1. The 2-pounder. Obviously the most realistic of the choices. Since it is so feasable, it is therefore not sexy. The Floss is all about sexy. Probability of getting picked: 20%.



2. The 3-pounder. Taking it a pound further. You eat this burger, they pick up the tab. That adds incentive. I would like to think I have a chance at this guy. This is like Rocky stepping into the ring with Drago. I wanna eat this burger and find Adrian at the end. Probability of getting picked: 70%.



3. The Ye-Olde 96er. A 6 pound burger. I could never eat a 6 pound burger(with all the fixins, it is well over 10 pounds). The only person to eat this burger is a 100 pound woman from New Jersey. This goal is unrealistic, however I see some potential. This pick has the potential to be a huge letdown, even eating half would be a letdown. I was thinking about a charity event with this burger, like a dollar for every ounce I eat, but I don't think I could realistically get past three pounds, which basically eliminates this burger. Probability of getting picked: 10%.

This road trip really doesn't require much. I will gladly drive this remarkable journey to Burger Heaven, but I would prefer 3 wingmen to my side. Anyone interested should contact the Floss. I need at least one can of chew, preferably mint or peach(road trip chew). I would need inspiration, signs, cards, posters, words of encouragement, etc. I would also like one of the wingmen to help document this trip because it would make for great blogging.

Three Pounds of Fun.

PITT BASKETBALL

Lost in the shuffle with all of the beautiful Pitt football commitments has been the overachieving Pitt Panthers basketball team. Since the Steelers HAD been playing well, I really wasn't too concerned with the Pitt basketball team, but I'm right back with them. They are in the middle of a terribly tough 5 game stretch(@ Duquesne, W, @ Washington, W, Oklahoma St., W, Duke @ MSG, and @ Dayton). I did not expect the Panthers to win those 3 games. They have a great it factor with this team. I am starting to trust Levance Fields more and more to win this team any game. Sam Young has developed into a much more polished jump shooter and a scorer for this team. Mike Cook and Ronald Ramon provide some senior leadership. But this team's real heart and soul is the BIG guy in the middle, Dejuan Blair. He is going to own Duke in MSG. This team is going to shock the college basketball world Thursday, when the realize that Young-Blair-Fields is a better nucleus than Paulus-Nelson-Singler. Pitt pulls a HUGE upset Thursday, 77-72.

TILA FINALE

The end is in sight for Tila, as she picks who ultimately gets the shot at love. After last weeks huge letdown, airing a stupid unseen moments show, MTV is giving us the finale Tuesday. Down to Dani and Bobby, she will make the choice of man v. woman. It was shocking to see the 2 favorites last the whole way and be in the finals against each other. Dani has been the front runner for weeks now, and the Floss ultimately thinks she will win. The Floss and every other man in America should be pulling for Bobby however.

Look for a Pitt football recruiting update this week along with a Tila recap, and maybe even a blog about the burger.

Back to Bed

FUCK YOU REPEAL DAY--DAN ONORATO

The night before Repeal Day(much more legit than Black Friday), Allegheny County passed a law to tax all poured drinks 10%. The 18th amendment to our Constitution was enacted in 1919 and repealed in 1933 by the passing of the 21st amendment. 14 years without booze, a.k.a the first 14 years of my life(sorry Terr, I know you didn't hold out that long). The money from the drink tax will go to the city's public transportation system. Our city's public transportation system needs funding, but this might not be a best way. Since the Floss isn't 21 yet, this law doesn't affect me yet one bit. However, when I turn 21 they are going to have .91 cent draft nights in order to keep draft nights one dollar. In such a monumental week for boozing in America, how is Allegheny County gonna do us dirty like this.



STEEL CURTAIN



The Steelers play the best team in the NFL this week, so what does it's least important player on the defense do, guarantee victory. Anthony Smith, what in the flying FUCK were you thinking? Why give them more motivation other than their quest to be the best team in NFL history and the greatest dynasty in history? Anthony Smith claimed he has always been a winner. Good one, you were 18-30 in your career at 'Cuse. A stellar 1-10 in your senior season. Last year as a reserve on the Steelers, the team went 8-8. Smith hasn't had a winning season in 5 years until now. Shut your mouth Smith. I don't like the Steelers chances this week in New England. People are getting down a little bit off the New England horse. They will be motivated at home. The Steelers are BAD on the road under Tomlin. I think our defense will come to play, but the offense will have trouble because of Parker's recent struggles and Ben will turn the ball over a few times. The Floss likes the Pats 28-17 in Foxboro. I will say this, what I have been saying all season, we will lose now, win in the playoffs. Ben Roethlisberger is going to elevate this team to a conference championship game and possibly a Super Bowl. He will silence any critics he has ever heard.



TILA UPDATE



Due to school commitments, the Floss was unable to catch Tila this week. I did hear who is in the finals, Dani and Bobby. The Floss made a prediction that Amanda was taking this, but he was wrong as with most things. I have noticed the recent support from females for Dani on Tila. A lot of facebook stalking has made me realize the recent support for Dani from the womens. She is a woman crush for chicks apparently, although since all girls are lesbians, this is just proving my new Tila theory. The new Tila theory, a guy won't mind threesomes, a dyke will. Tila is going with the d-piece on this one(no homo).


KILLA CAM



The Floss ain't talking about rap music. We are talking about Killa Cam Saddler and his commitment to Pitt this Wednesday. A 4 star prospect who projects as just a kick and punt returner on the next level(he does soo much more). Ask the Bears how Devin Hester is working out for them? Keeping the WPIAL players in Pittsburgh is so big because of the number of studs every year, especially a team like Gateway. Cam Saddler is on record saying he is going to be recruiting kids until LOI day. A huge get would be his cousin and teammate Shayne Hale. Hale is a hell of a player, a MLB or OLB or DE who can step in as a freshman and strengthen the D. Hopefully he announces at the US Army All American game on January 5th. That game has 3 potential Pitt commits in it(Luke Nix(committed), Jonathan Baldwin(90%), and Shayne Hale(60%)). This could be Wanny's best class ever, which is amazing since the team has been underperforming, but after WVU we are ready for the Wanny dynasty to truly begin. Zack Stoudt also committed today, which is not good in a numbers sense because Pitt is also trying to land Tino the Great and Greg "Im a boss and love the Floss" Cross. Pitt football will probably be referenced in every blog from here til the end, so get used to it.

If you can't stand the heat get out of the kitchen. If you can't stand the Floss, get out of the bathroom(so lame).

"I'M SO PROUD OF THIS FUCKING TEAM"

Tyler Palko uttered those infamous words just 3 years ago, but the echoes are louder today. What happened at Notre Dame stadium was awesome, but nothing matches the buildup for the Backyard Brawl. WVU was playing in the biggest game of their lives. A 4-7 Pitt team walked into THEIR HOUSE and beat them up and down the field. Dave Wannsteadt and all the coaches deserve a ton of credit for pumping that team up to play. They had them believe all week. I could sit here and gush about all the players, but I'm going to limit it to 2. LeSean McCoy is officially the savior. I've never seen a kid earn more yards than McCoy did last night. He fought for everyone of his 148 yards(had 20 more if no phantom holding calls). The next player is Scott McKillop. I remember him 2 years ago as a RS Freshman playing at WVU and getting ran all over the field. He grew up in the Panthers backyard, he FUCKING hates WVU and showed it. He should be a finalist for the Butkis next year, he is that good. He flew all over that field. This game will never be forgotten by either school. How many days 'til spring ball???????

"It was a nightmare, just a nightmare."

WHAT'S IN A NAME?

Protestors in the Sudan are demanding the execution of the British schoolteacher who let her class of Sudanese children name a stuffed teddy bear, Mohammad. She was convicted of insulting religion and sentenced to 15 days in jail. Protestors at the scene were armed with knives and swords. The protestors are angered at the 15 day jail sentence because it is not harsh enough. Other punishments that Ms. Gibbons could have faced were 40 lashings, up to a year in jail, and/or fines. The Floss doesn't usually take stances on religion, but this is ridiculous. First of all, she let the class pick the name. It isn't her fault that the kids are exposed to the name Mohammad every day. They are 7 year old kids. They did not try to deface the Muslim religion. Not too mention that her punishment is too harsh already. Where does the school come in on this? They could have fired her or suspended her without pay, but instead she has to serve time. The funniest part of the story is the fact that the Sudan allows lashings as forms of punishment. How can you even take the Sudan as a serious country? Ms. Gibbons should be freed and get the hell back to her homeland, Britain. God Bless America.

FELIZ CUMPLEANOS

First a special Happy Birthday to my biggest fan, Dom Berardinelli. The Floss wishes you many more. I was thinking about birthdays and what they meant to me. I can give you a run down on birthdays 1 through 21(Note, 2 years away). Enjoy

1. First taste of birthday cake, mmmmm.

2-4. Who cares?

5. I feel like this is the birthday or at least year when you get the battery car that you can drive and you can pimp the neighboorhood hoes.

6. Now you get a bike, fuck bikes.

7. Game systems time, Super Nintendo was a dope present

8. Action hero era is in its prime(note the Rockers, Marty Jeannetty and Shawn Micheals)

9-12. The last three years of toys, a mess of 4 years of birthdays.

13. Teenager, wooo. One of your last uncorrupted years.

14. Videogames, start talking about driving.

15. Start getting clothes as presents, goes downhill.

16. Got my first car, an awesome birthday.

17. The in-between birthday. Shitty.

18. Chewphoria. Great feeling.

19. Canada. Fuck the US Dollar.

20. Haven't been there yet. The worst in-between birthday.

21. THE MECCA.

A LEGEND FALLS

Daredevil Evel Knieval died at the age of 69 today. Not popular in much of the past decade. His legend lives on whenever anyone tries to do insane jumps. He was fearless. He lived his life on the edge. His 69 years were impressive due to the nature of his career. "People wanted to associate with a winner, not a loser. They wanted to associate with someone who kept trying to be a winner--Evel Knieval." This quote sums up the legend of Evel Knieval although doesn't it sound a lot like Rece Bobby in Talladega Nights. Sadly, this quote stood out most to me the most in the article on his death. The Floss would like to send out condolenses to the Knieval family.

In Always Being a Winner.

T'AINT THE SEASON

After a long Turkey Day hangover, the floss is back. When I last wrote about how great Thanksgiving is, I forgot to mention something wrong with Thanksgiving. I didn't really think about it 'til I read the paper on Thanksgiving, but at 12:01 on Friday, Black Friday started. Christmas season doesn't start before the leaves are off the trees. We need the first real snow before shopping should begin. Christmas shopping is one of my favorite DAYS of the year. That's right, I said DAY. It is absurd to believe that it is necessary to shop for more than maybe 2 days each year. Then I overhear my sister start talking about shopping Friday. I then find out that my sister is going shopping at 3:30 AM Friday. I was talking about this with my cousin Matt, a much wiser figure, and he described this as tailgating for women. My mom said that was exactly what it was(she was making plans for next year). I don't know if I understand it, but there is a lot less booze and food but a lot more psychotic fans(womens, thats you). Personally, I did not take Friday for granted one bit. I got some rest into Friday, probably because I was hungover as hell. Then I went and played in a smaller size Turkey Bowl(much more festive than shopping). Then I layed on my ass hungover and watched football for the bulk of the day. I think WE all know which is right here.

***A term coined on Thanksgiving this year: Best Dip of the Year Day. After turkey dinner, nothing goes better than a chew. The autumn and winter chew is Skoal Mint(Dom agrees).

GRASS GETS RICKY AGAIN

A different kind of grass got Ricky Williams in trouble Monday night, Heinz Field grass. Ricky Williams return was very disappointing and uneventful as he had minimal yards and a lost fumble. He also got a season ending injury. He didn't turn out to be the story of the game. That would be the "surface" at Heinz Field, if you can even call it a "surface". The grass over the sod was one of the worst ideas the Steelers ever had. Do you know who they consulted about the new field? Penn St. and Rutgers. Thanks guys. This game was terrible. This game should only be looked at as a W in the Win column. Take nothing from this game. Also a Flossin' congrats goes out to Willie Parker for getting over 1,000 yards for the 3rd straight year. He is also the leading rusher in the AFC.

A TEST WORSE THAN ANY HIGH SCHOOL EXAM

Murrysville teens took a huge blow this week. The Murrysville Police Department has just came up with one of the best ways to curb underage drinking and drug use. The school is sending out one free alcohol test strip to each family of a Franklin Regional High School student. The test is an instant swab in your kids mouth that will tell if your son/daughter has been boozin. After the initial freebie, parents can buy more tests at the police stations for a measly 3 bones a pop. They also offer weed tests for 4 bones and the grand kit for many illicit drugs for 12 bones. Basically for under 50 bucks a year, parents can have peace of mind if there kids are drinking or smokin dope. I personally see a problem with this because it isn't that hard to tell if someone has been drinking. The smell it, look it, and talk it. These tests take out the fun of trying to hide the fact you have been drinking from your parents. The peanut butter in the mouth(never tried it, but it apparently kills the smell). Wiping your clothes in dryer sheets(my friend Mike's fav), works great, just smells like your clothes are clean. I always liked the thrill and scared shitlessness of trying to hide it. Before I would go inside, I would put myself in the zone and get ready for battle. However, if I'm a parent, no doubt I would have these to check my kids with.

BRAWLIN'

The 100th edition of the Backyard Brawl happens this Saturday at 7:45 on ESPN. The Mountainqueers are playing for a shot to play for a Natty C. In the name of all that is holy, Pitt better win this game. I hate the whole state of West Virginia. I hate their players, I hate their fans, I hate their schemes, and I hate DickRod more than all of them. I hope it comes out this week that Noel Devine has robbed half the campus and is on 'roids. However, the realistic chance Pitt wins this game is about 10%. On a positive note, Shady McCoy was named a first team all freshman All American by Rivals and Scout. He was also named as one of the first team All BE running backs over Steve Slaton. He has 15 total TD's this season and 14 rushing which is the All time Pitt freshman record. Also congrats to Scott McKillop who still leads the nation in tackles per game. He should win this stat for the season because I expect him to make 20 plus tackles this week.

TILA UPDATE

Not to toot my own horn or anything, but my projected final three(compiled from odds) from this last entry are still all hangin around. My odds last time were as follows:
Amanda(10:1)
Dani(7:2)
Bobby(4:1)

Domenico took the bounce because his show value was up. Watching the other two guys cry was awesome when he got the boot. Brandi went crazy because thats what crazy chicks do, glad she didn't get let back in the house. Ryan probably got eliminated because he tried to rape Tila and his family was a bunch of stuck up NJ trash. His friends also used the word "bro" very nicely.

I think the in home visits didn't really change her opinion on any of the finalists. They all kept in their good standing with Ms. Tequila. My prediction for the final 2 might come to a shock to the fans of the Floss. I am saying Dani gets to steppin' this week. Why, you ask? She has been the favorite for the past few weeks, but I think Tila does not want a Rosie O'Donnel Home Depot dyke. I think she is looking for a lip stick lesbo. God Damn I'm excited for next week though.

The End.

A REAL SPORTS PROBLEM

It might be that I just read Mary Wollstonecrafts, "A Vindication of Woman's Rights" in my philosophy class, or it might be that i'm on drugs, who knows why this article is being written. There is a glaring problem going on in the world of sports outside of steriods and Cameragate. The problem is the perception of women in the sports world. The sideline reporter was brought to life in 1974 by ABC executive Roone Aldridge. Women became involved in this role as early as the 1980's. The sad part about these women sideline reporters is the label they get. They do not get respect for their knowledge of the game and are seen as figureheads, who ask stupid questions that just piss off coaches and players. First and foremost, sideline reporting is dumb anyways. Most avid sports fans agree that sideline reporting offers nothing of merit to a sporting event. So TV Execs obviously know the same, therefore, to stir up some interest, they introduced us to hot, female sideline reporters. Erin Andrews, former dance team member at the University of Florida, is ESPN's go to gal(If I was that kid in the Greg Brunner jersey, I would have this picture on every mantle in my house and over top my report card on the fridge). She does a great job and I do respect her limited reporting. But, seriously, her job is to draw interest because of her looks, not her reporting, sad but true. There are other gorgeous sideline reporters out there too as indicated by the website(http://www.sidelinehotties.com/). The first sideline gal I remember was Suzy Kolber, who is best remembered for Joe Namath saying he wanted to kiss her(one of the best sports moments of the decade). The original hottie, who has been displaced(only barely) by Erin Andrews, Bonnie Bernstein. Some of my other favorites include Colleen Dominguez, Rachel Nichols, and Jillian Barberie(Fox Weather Girl, biggest joke ever). A sad fact with all of these women is that they are mainly stuck to the sideline, except that Kolber used to host Edge NFL Matchup. The sad part is that women never get a chance in the booth of major sporting events. No one lets them go in the booth for a football game or announce a basketball game. The only one I can think of is Doris Burke, who has sadly announced a Pitt game this year. Although, it is very debatable if she has ever had a sex change, and putting her on the same page as Erin(notice I've moved on to a first name basis) is unjust. In our modern day sports world, 3 announcers are needed in the booth, there is no reason that an Erin Andrews couldn't be one of the 2 color "guys". ESPN still lets Thiesman broadcast and John Madden makes comments that my mom makes when watching a football game(ex. If this team wants to win, they need to get first downs and put up some points). Erin and Rachel are long overdue for a job in the booth. Here's to you, women of the sport's world.


STEELERS


Seriously, thanks for showing up yesterday guys. Their paychecks should be returned to the Rooneys, especially Tomlin's.


THANKSGIVING


The most underrated holiday on the American calendar is coming up on Thursday. Thanksgiving, in a nutshell, 3 best things goin, family, football, food. Great f-in day.
1. FAMILY--No one spends enough time with their family. It is a great day to sit around and argue about football, then get drunk.
2. FOOTBALL--First, gotta love how women get the TV in the morning for the Parade, quite possibly the lamest Turkey Day tradition(now I hate on women). The Lions are playing in the first meaningful Thanksgiving Day game in forever, vs. the Pack. Then you get the now red hot Jets playing Homo's Cowboys. Rooting against the Boys is always fun. The night game is on NFL Network and will have as many viewers as this blog.
3. FOOD--Really my favorite of the three. Sooo many side dishes that it is impossible to fit everything on your plate. Mashed potatoes, stuffing, corn, green beans, sweet potatoes, probably 9 other carb/veggie combos. Not too mention that everything I just mention can get covered in gravy. The only beef I have with Thanksgiving is that I'm not a big pumpkin pie guy. Give me a tall glass of milk and half a sheet cake for dessert.

Hugs and Handpounds

BECAUSE STONE COLD SAYS SO

PITT RECRUITING

Because this is primarily my blog(stay tuned for Terrence updates), I am going to give my top 10 recruits for Pitt left in this here college football recruiting season. These are not based on rankings as much as need for the Pitt football program. This also factors in probability of landing the recruit.

1. Jonathan Baldwin--Although Pitt has a plethora of WR's, this kid is a program changer. You also need to factor in that he is a Quip. He is down to basically ND and Pitt and ND has 21 commits right now and Pitt has seven. The probability here is likely. He is going to burst onto the college football scene as a true frosh and help make Pitt's offense near the top of the BE with Pat Bostick, Derek Kinder, TJ Porter, Moelicious(Moe Williams), Nate Byham, and of course Shady.

2. Steve Gardiner--He is supposedly down to Pitt and WVU unless he gets a B10 offer. If he gets a B10 offer he could be gone, especially if it is the Buckeyes. LB is a need for the Panthers and this kid is having a monster senior season. Basically Pitt needs either Gardiner or....

3. Doug Rippy--Another Buckeye state LB. He just broke his commitment to Nebraska because of the coaching situation. He has no visits set up other than to Pitt on Dec. 7th. Measured at 6'2, 217 and ran a 4.50 forty at the Pitt combine over the summer.

4. Hubie Graham--While Pitt will have 2 solid Jr. TE's on the roster next year, Pitt continually uses 3 TE sets. Pelusi and Byham are the only scholarship TE's on the roster next year. He is a PA kid who has a great relationship with Nate Byham. He is making his rounds on his officials, but I think when it is said and done, he will line up in a Panther uni. Best football name on the list.

5. Averin Collier--Ave is rated by Tom Lemming as a 5 star player and deservedly so. He really doesn't have a position at his current 5'11 200 pound body. He could probably turn into a CB or S at Pitt. He also has a brother on the team. Too much talent to not turn out to something.

6. Jared Holley--Subpar senior year has slowed his recruiting, but the kid is also really quiet on his recruiting. His offers might all be virtually gone except Pitt. Kid is still very athletic and should be in a Panther Uni come Feb. 6th.

7. Robb Houser--A center from Junior College that could come in and start for the Panthers. The last JUCO O-Lineman they got was Jeff Otah, who will be drafted on Day 1 of the NFL draft. Most likely will be starting next year because of lack of offers.

8. Tino Sunseri--I have been high on this kid from watching him play on TV. He is small, but has a good arm and mobility. Opened up his commitment to Louisville, probably won't come here, but he is much better than Zack Stoudt. Stoudt is somehow stringing the Panthers along waiting for another offer.

9. Terrelle Pryor--I haven't written off the nation's top prospect. As long as he doesn't make any quick decisions, I feel Pitt can hang in this race. Once basketball season starts to go full swing and his football season ends, he will frequent Pitt basketball games. Probably a long shot, but so was Shady. I love Bostick, but Pryor is too special to not want more than any player.

10. Cam Saddler--He is the player I want for this class just cause. He is a cocky, flashy, stud football player. The kid wants touchdowns every time he touches the ball. I don't know how he would fit in offensively, but he could provide a swagger for the team. Will be a leader on the tema from day one, wherever he goes I hope he has a sick college career.

Others worth noting, Dan Vaughan, Ryan Williams, Zack Stoudt, Shayne Hale, Tommy Streeter, and Mike Cruz

Sorry about this rant, but it was necessary. Also to any of the working class, Signing Day is a new drinking national holiday. My roomate Nate(bigger sports nerd than I) and I have started to organize this event. We will be drinking for every LOI signed and faxed to our Pitt Panthers. Others are encouraged for their team. We haven't come up with a drinking system yet, other than the day starting at 7:30.

Thursday Titties (Tidbits is Lame)--11/15

"When my time on Earth has passed, I hope they bury me upside down so my critics can kiss my ass"--Bob Knight

TILA TEQUILA

I don't know if you have been watching, but MTV has introduced its newest D-List celebrity show, Tila Tequila, although this celebrity is a beautiful, busty, bi-sexual(say it 5 times fast, it works). The premise is that a bunch of lesbians and straight dudes live in a house with her and eventually she will choose just ONE for love. They put her up in a house with possibly the worst cast ever on a TV show. The Rock of Love cast looks like an All Star Team of humans. She has made it to the final 6 of contestants. I would give you a summary to this point, but frankly it is on MTV any time you turn on the tube, so just check it out. Here are a summary of the final 6 cast members to get you excited(odds to win).

Terrible People (Lesbians)

Amanda(10 to 1)--Tallest Lesbian ever to not play in the WNBA. She could be a catch for any center in the NBA, but she plays for the wrong team. Huge cans though.

Brandi(20 to 1)--She is the hottest one left, way too trampy for a celebrity. From her cast bio, she was emancipated from her parents at 16. Guess I'm rooting for her if a lesbian must win.

Dani(7 to 2)--She is a firefighter. Her job is most likely rescuing "pussys" from trees. She describes herself as "futch", not feminine, but not butch. Yeah and I describe myself as MANTRO, not quite manly, but metro in the same. Last episode the cast voted her most compatible for Tila.

Broskis

Bobby(4 to 1)--New York film school student. Got beat up by a West Virginia hick earlier in the show. Last episode he said the L word to Tila, she just responded with a kiss. She has been on his D since the beginning.

Domenico(5000 to 1)--Straight from the home country(if your Bazzani). He sucks. Kept on for show value. He always rocks a speedo that grosses out the lesbians. If he wins, the show looks way way too fixed.

Ryan(15 to 1)--From the armpit of America(New Jersey). Has never done anything to win Tila's affection other than having 12 pack abs. Ok I will stop now.

Tila Tequila airs Tuesdays on MTV at 10, and re runs all the time.

THE BOSS

Springsteen came to Pittsburgh last night. It is his final North American tour so he says. He plans to finish his career on a Euro tour. Not the guy who wrote "Born in the USA". Rumors of a ballpark tour in the spring. I'm not a big disciple of Bruce, but "Glory Days" always gives the goosebumps at Heinz.

POLES 1, DAIGOS 0

From Tuesdays edition of The Pitt News, "Pitt professor first American to win Polish Award". Professor Oscar Swan was awarded the Polonicum Award by the University of Warsaw. He received the award for his efforts to spread Polish language and culture. Had to throw this news story in there because it combines 2 of my favorite things, Pollocks and Pitt.

NBA

Contrary to Eamon's wrong belief, the NBA is actually a very enjoyable sport. They are the best players from college basketball every year, which everyone loves. Where does the NBA go wrong? It is officiating and length of the schedule. In order to protect players, the NBA refs call fouls for anything. Last night in the Lakers--Rockets game, a foul was called on the Rockets after Mo Evans jumped into Vladimir Radmonavich(yes they are on the same team) because he fell hard and bitched. The refs are too protective of players which is smart because they are superstars playing in a season that lasts at minimum 82 games. The Ryan Walde solution is a shorter schedule, a 48 game schedule, about 12 games longer than an NCAA schedule. Then in the playoffs, have the first 2 rounds best-of-five and the conference and nba finals are best-0f-seven. Every game would mean a hell of a lot more, teams would be in contention longer. This solution would win fo shizzle.

My team:

The HOTLanta Hawks. They compete in the East, so they are always a contender. They have one of the most underrated players in the NBA in Joe Johnson. They have a really nice young nucleus. Marvin Williams, Josh Smith, Josh Childress, Al Horford, and Acie Law. Sadly the Dukie, the Landlord can't handle their uptempo basketball because he is good. This team puts up points. Another major factor is that they play in the same division, the Southeast, as Podkul's Orlando Magic. I've never heard of their coach, but if he keeps putting up over a hund a game, I'm down.

GOODBYE DEAR FLAT BRIMMED FITTED

http://www.wpxi.com/news/14553910/detail.html

Dear Ol' Franklin High is in the news for the wrong reasons, a fight against an opposing fan. Nevermind that the fan was in our student section and that he was EMO, fighting is unacceptable. If you closely watch the video, the Franklin student who clocks the kid is wearing a fitted. Showing my disgust, you will only see me in bent brim hats.

How Do You Like Me Now?

--Walde