Bleacher Report - Articles by Michael Hicks

Auburn Football in Need of Change

Michael Hicks — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 07:10:49 -0400

Tommy Tuberville did not lose his job Thursday night in Morgantown, but he lost his team.

The Auburn players looked like they did not care anymore. They were cold and looked disinterested while West Virginia was reeling off 31 unanswered points. The defense forgot how to tackle, and the offense forgot how to run.

The Mountaineers had 10 plays of 20 yards or more, and Noel Devine busted loose for 207 rushing yards on 17 carries, while the Auburn offense stalled drive after drive.

It is clear now that Kodi Burns could not even quarterback the Sigma Chi intramural team.

What now for Auburn football?

A season that started with championship aspirations is falling faster than the economy.

Unfortunately for Tuberville, there are still four games left in this season, and Auburn will be the underdog in all but one.

Right now, it doesn't look good for Tuberville. Another second half collapse, and Tubs is that much closer to the unemployment line. Auburn will have to finish strong to get six wins and make a bowl game.

As the success of the program just 180 miles west grows, Tuberville finds himself with more questions than answers. He is on the brink of his first losing season on the Plains since 1999.

Many Auburn supporters are wondering if Tuberville cares anymore. They have questioned his desire to recruit, and they question his decision-making skills.

The Auburn program is going backwards under Tuberville, and the people with the money are willing to pay to see him go.

BCS Standings Week 1

Michael Hicks — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 10:03:44 -0400

The first edition of the all-important BCS standings were released Sunday.

Texas took the No. 1 spot in the poll after a 56-31 rout of Missouri this Saturday.

Undefeated Alabama beat out Penn State for the second spot.

And, one-loss Oklahoma and USC round out the top five.

For a complete list of the BCS rankings, click here.

Tommy Bowden Fired at Clemson

Michael Hicks — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 06:18:33 -0400

Tommy Bowden was fired Monday morning after the Tigers got off to a 3-3 start and just after Bowden received a lucrative contract extension following the 2007 season.

Assistant head coach/wide receivers coach Dabo Swinney has been named the team's interim coach.

The Tigers were the preseason favorite to win their first ACC championship under Bowden and compete for a national championship.

However, after a 34-10 beat down against Alabama in the Georgia Dome Aug. 30 and after going 1-2 so far in ACC play, questions about his job security arose.

Tommy Bowden was 72-45 with eight bowl appearances at Clemson, but he never could get the Tigers up to elite status in the ACC.

Alabama Is Back in the Spotlight for Good

Michael Hicks — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 05:21:14 -0400

Many people saw this coming, but not this soon.

Nick Saban and the Alabama Crimson Tide are undefeated midway through the season and ranked second in the nation. The national media is starting to take notice after a beatdown of the previously ninth-ranked Clemson Tigers and a knockout of No. 3 Georgia.

Head coach Nick Saban has done many interviews and was the subject of a spotlight on ESPN’s College GameDay. The team has graced the cover of Sports Illustrated.

All this proves that college football is better when The University of Alabama is relevant and good.

After the abysmal 2006 season and the embarrassing coaching search that followed, many thought the Tide was an afterthought in the football spotlight. It had been six years since it had competed for the SEC championship, and it was going on its eighth head coach since Bear Bryant retired in 1982.

Many media members laughed as coach after coach turned down Alabama. Who would want to coach at a program where you can never escape the shadow of Bear Bryant and the championships of the past?

Then Nick Saban came to the Capstone and brought his process with him.

After breaking out with a huge win against Tennessee in his first season, the Tide stumbled to a 7-6 final record—the worst loss coming at home to Louisiana-Monroe.

Many thought that Alabama was still two or three years away from being a major factor in the national race or even the SEC race.

Coming into this season, the goal was just to improve. After bringing in the nation's number one recruiting class, the future looked bright. Maybe the Tide would upset some people and go 8-4, end the six-game losing streak to Auburn, and go to a decent bowl game.

Then in the Georgia Dome with the nation watching, the Tide came out and whipped national title contender Clemson 34-10. Suddenly Bama looked ahead of schedule.

Saban knew expectations for his team would soar, especially in the sometimes delusional and unrealistic fan base. After three more wins against inferior opponents, the magical season was supposed to end at the “Blackout” in Athens.

Georgia was too good and had too many offensive weapons, and the Tide was still a year away from really being competitive against the SEC big boys.

The first 30 minutes saw the Tide put on a clinic of how to silence a hostile road crowd. 31-0 at halftime and people were talking national championship for this Tide team.

Alabama fans stumbled out of Sanford Stadium in disbelief of what they just witnessed. Is Alabama really this good? Is Georgia this bad? Can these guys run the table?

The national media thought so by giving Alabama 21 first place votes in the AP poll—moving them up to second in the nation.

After a wake-up call against Kentucky and watching what happened to USC and Florida, fans now see how easy it is to slip in today’s college football world. Saban has proved to be a master so far at managing this team, giving them praise when they need it and taking them down a notch so they don’t get high on themselves.

He knows how easy it would be for this team to let up and bask in what they have achieved so far.

Still, there are not many people left who doubt Alabama as a national contender. As ESPN’s Brad Edwards said, “It would take a complete collapse for Alabama not to be playing in a BCS bowl.”

The target on the Tide grows every Saturday. Teams will be bringing their “A” game when they play the Tide.

Whether this dream season ends Jan. 8 in Miami or not, Saban has brought Alabama football back into the national spotlight.

I have a feeling they are here to stay.

SEC Football: Week Three Picks

Michael Hicks — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 07:16:20 -0400

In week three, there are some very good SEC matchups. Auburn goes on the road to Starkville to take on Mississippi State, and Steve Spurrier's Gamecocks try to right the ship against No. 2 Georgia. Ole Miss came real close to pulling of the upset last week against Wake Forest and don't look now but Vandy is unbeaten after a 24-17 victory over South Carolina last Thursday.

Here are my week three picks:

Auburn 21, Mississippi State 10: With Chris Todd now the starter, I look for the Tigers offense to be more consistent. Mississippi State won last year because of a couple of costly turnovers by Auburn. Sly's boys will keep it close, but Auburn will prove too much in the end.

Alabama 31, Western Kentucky 10: After a let down against Tulane last week look for the Tide to come out and make a statement this week.

Ole Miss 36, Samford 10: Hotty! Totty! Gosh Almighty! The Rebels look to bounce back from a heart breaker at Wake last week. Look for a good ground game as they get ready for SEC play next week.

Tennessee 48, UAB 27: The Vols look to rebound after the unsuccessful West Coast trip. The Blazers have a pretty good offense but the Vols offense should roll up the points on their defense.

Kentucky 21, Middle Tennessee 10: Rich Brooks boasts one of the league's best defense but inconsistency on offense may cost Wildcats this season.

LSU 41, North Texas 6: After last weeks game against Troy was canceled due to Hurricane Gustav look for the Tigers to be rested and ready this week.

Vanderbilt 27, Rice 21: Rice as a high-powered offense that will throw the ball all over the field. Vandy's defense is a lot better this year and can will be the winning factor in this game.

SEC Game of the Week

Georgia 21, South Carolina 14: This game game has been decided by six points or fewer in five of the seven match-ups since 2001. The Gamecocks are good on defense and that should keep them in the game. Georgia has too much offensively not to win it in the fourth quarter though.

Alabama Football: The Crimson Report

Michael Hicks — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 04:48:01 -0400

A win is a win that is how the saying goes. Alabama left Bryant-Denny Stadium with a 20-6 win over Tulane Saturday but it did not feel like it.

Only 172 yards on offense and one touchdown by freshman Mark Ingram left fans shaking there heads. The special teams came up big for the Tide a 87-yard punt return by Javier Arenas and a blocked punt by Roy Upchurch picked up by Chris Rogers for a touchdown. Here is a report card for the Tide:

Offense: D-

John Parker finished 11-of-23 for 73 yards and no touchdowns. He never got into a rhythm throwing the ball. The running game never got going either Mark Ingram had 11 carries for 63 yards and one touchdown.

Deffense: B

Rolando McClain led the defense with 15 tackles. Tulane did not score a touchdown and only had 86 yards rushing. The secondary gave up 232 yards in the air though.

Special Teams: A+

Javier Arenas score on a 87-yard punt return was the highlight of the game. He also broke the school recorded for punt return yards by halftime. Chris Rogers got in on the fun also picking up the Roy Upchurch blocked punt for another special teams touchdown.

Overall B-

Tulane came in more physical but Bama found a way to get the win, something they may not have done last year. Special teams was a bright spot and the defense did not give up a touchdown.

SEC TV Schedule leaked on CBS

Michael Hicks — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 08:36:03 -0400

Due to a computer glitch, CBS posted their entire slate of season games on their website. The doubleheader is going to be on Oct. 11, and ESPN has the first pick of games at least once this season, so some of these may change.

As expected, Florida and Georgia dominate the schedule.

09/13 - 2:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Georgia @ South Carolina (CBS HD)

09/20 - 2:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Florida @ Tennessee (CBS HD)

09/27 - 2:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Tennessee @ Auburn (CBS HD)

10/04 - 2:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Florida @ Arkansas or Kentucky @ Alabama (CBS HD)

10/11 - 2:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Tennessee @ Georgia (CBS HD)

10/11 - 7:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m. LSU @ Florida (CBS HD)

10/18 - 2:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m. LSU @ South Carolina (CBS HD)

10/25 - 2:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Georgia @ LSU (CBS HD)

11/01 - 2:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Georgia-Florida (CBS HD)

11/08 - 2:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Alabama @ LSU or Georgia @ Kentucky (CBS HD)

11/15 - 3:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Notre Dame @ Navy (CBS HD)

11/15 - 2:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m. South Carolina @ Florida or Georgia @ Auburn (CBS HD)

11/22 - 2:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Ole Miss @ LSU or Tennessee @ Vanderbilt or Arkansas @ Mississippi St. (CBS HD)

11/28 - 1:30 p.m.-5:00 p.m. LSU @ Arkansas (CBS HD)

11/29 - 11:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Georgia Tech @ Georgia (CBS HD)

11/29 - 2:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Auburn @ Alabama (CBS HD)

12/06 - 11:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Army @ Navy (CBS HD)

12/06 - 3:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m. SEC Championship

Nick Saban Dubbed the Most Powerful Coach in Sports

Michael Hicks — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 06:05:51 -0400

Do you think Nick Saban has power?

Forbes magazine thinks so: Saban has been named the "most powerful coach in sports" in the Sep. 1 issue of Forbes.

Saban became the first college football coach to be featured on the front of the magazine since it was created in 1917.

The article says Saban's control over the Alabama program, his $32 million eight-year contract, and his influence on the entire University makes him the most powerful coach in sports.

This just goes to show you how much Saban means to the University of Alabama, not just the football program.

The issue hits newsstands Friday morning.

Alabama Football: Notes from Two-A-Days

Michael Hicks — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 10:28:17 -0400

With two-a-days starting and the nights getting cooler, kickoff is just around the corner for the Tide. Here are a few links and notes from practice so far:

It seems in year two of the Saban era the players are taking more responsibility and getting on board with coach and his philosophy.
Julio Jones is quickly becoming John Parker Wilson's number one target.
There is a lot of talk about this year's freshman class and who will play. Mark Barron, the safety out of St. Paul's in Mobile, has the size and the speed to be a starting safety. Julio Jones, B.J. Scott, and Tyler Love are getting more reps in practice with the first and second teams.
Saban is looking for leadership to guide the younger players. He mentioned many of the upperclassmen like John Parker Wilson, Rolando McClain, and members of the offensive line.
Greg McElroy is having a really good camp, the sophomore was 9-of-18 for 146 yards in Saturday's scrimmage. He seems to have the second quarterback spot locked up.
One of the Alabama's main concerns will be depth at linebacker, but in the scrimmage Saturday Rolando McClain had five tackles and one interception. Mountain Brook's Charlie Higgenbotham led all players in tackles with eight.
Nick Saban was named by Forbes Magazine as the most powerful coach in sports. He will appear on the cover of the September 1 issue, Saban became the first college football coach to be featured on the front of the magazine since it was created in 1917.

Alabama Football: The Legacy of John Parker Wilson

Michael Hicks — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 05:44:49 -0400

John Parker Wilson came to The University of Alabama after a very decorated career at Hoover High School.

He led the Bucs to a state title as a junior, passing for 2,800 yards and 27 TDs with just 10 interceptions.

In 2003 Wilson was named the Gatorade Player of the Year for the state of Alabama and was named to the 2003 Parade All-American team.

His career at Alabama as been one of many highs and plenty of lows.

For every great performance against Tennessee, there is a game-breaking mistake against Mississippi State and Louisiana-Monroe.

He owns the top two spots in Alabama school history for both passing yards in a season and touchdowns in a season.

But for some reason he has still not solidified himself as a top quarterback in the SEC.

He signed with the Tide in 2005 and saw action in four games, completing a pass in each appearance.

In 2006 he started all 12 games for the Tide. He threw for 200-plus yards in the first seven games, setting a school record, and finished that season with nine 200-yard games.

One of his best performances came against Arkansas, completing 80 percent of his passes for 243 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions.

He came under fire for his play in the Mississippi State game though, throwing two interceptions and no touchdowns in a loss to the Bulldogs.

In 2007 his passer rating was 114.6, completing 255 of 462 passes for 2,846 yards, 18 touchdowns (a school record), and 12 interceptions.

He played near perfect in a thrashing of archrival Tennessee, completing 32 of 46 passing attempts for 363 yards and three touchdowns.

But it was his costly turnovers in back-to-back loses against LSU and Mississippi State that most fans remember.

John Parker Wilson enters his senior season with the chance to become one of the most prolific passers in school history, but in yet another new offense he has not had the time to get comfortable as a starter.

He has been named to the 2008 Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award Watch List and should leave Alabama holding records for career passing yardage (6,382) and career TD passes (41).

As it stands right now, John Parker Wilson's legacy at the University of Alabama is one of what ifs.

If he can grasp the offense, cut out the costly turnovers, and lead the Tide back to Atlanta, he will go down as one of the better quarterbacks to don the crimson and white.

Love it or hate it, I would like to hear your thoughts. I can be reached at mhicksd87@yahoo.com.

2008 All-Star Game: Who is in and Who got Snubbed.

Michael Hicks — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 09:49:24 -0400

If this years All-Star game looks like a game between the Cubs and Red Sox, don't change the channel.

Both teams will be well represented at Yankee stadium on July 15.

The Cubs have a team-record seven players on the NL roster. With the Red Sox sending seven players as well.

"It's flattering," Cubs manager Lou Piniella said. "We've played well the first half and these guys that are going are, in a way, largely responsible."

"To be able to represent the Red Sox with that number of Red Sox will be very exciting," AL manager Terry Francona of Boston said. "I'm very proud of that."

There will be three Yankees on the team to celebrate the last All-Star game to be played at the famed stadium.

Alex Rodriguez was the top overall vote-getter for the second straight year at 3,934,518 and became a 12-time All-Star. Derek Jeter and Mariano Rivera will join him.

Philadelphia Phillies second baseman Chase Utley led the NL voting with 3,889,602.

The AL starting lineup: catcher Joe Mauer, Youkilis at first base, Pedroia at second base, Jeter at shortstop, Rodriguez at third base, outfielders Josh Hamilton, Ichiro Suzuki and Ramirez.

The NL starting lineup: catcher Geovany Soto will become the first rookie catcher to start for the NL, first baseman Lance Berkman, Utley at second base, shortstop Hanley Ramirez and third baseman Chipper Jones , with Soriano, Fukudome and Braun in the outfield.

As always there are going to be players with a legit beef for being snubbed. With the fans voting it has become more of a popularity contest.

The Tampa Bay Rays, the team with the best record in baseball, will not have a starter on the field.

Cubs first baseman Derrek Lee, Colorado third baseman Garrett Atkins, White Sox Jermaine Dye and Boston third baseman Mike Lowell were among the top players left out.

Boston pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka and Cole Hamels are the top pitchers left off.

Alabama Football: Rolando McClain Leads Tide Defense

Michael Hicks — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 13:01:56 -0400

At the end of the 2007 season, the linebacker position didn't appear to have any issues.

Only two starters needed to be replaced.

Then Ezekial Knight went down with a heart ailment, making him a question mark for the 2008 season.

Prince Hall was then suspended in the spring for a violation of team rules.

If these two were not enough of a loss, the newest addition to the linebacker unit, former running back Jimmy Johns, was arrested for selling cocaine.

Now Alabama has only one starter returning—sophomore Rolando McClain.

McClain started in nine of the team’s 13 games in his initial collegiate season.

He became the first true freshman since Saleem Rasheed in 1999 to start the season opener at the linebacker spot.

He showed he was more than capable of playing linebacker in the SEC by making 15 tackles in the regular season finale at Auburn and picking off a pass in the second quarter, the first interception of his career.

McClain finished 2007 with 75 tackles and one sack and was named to the 2007 Freshman All-American team.

For the Crimson Tide to be successful in 2008, McClain will have to avoid the "sophomore slump" and lead this defense.

The All Star Game: The AL Team

Michael Hicks — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 11:19:17 -0400

Here is the starting lineup for the 2008 American League All-Stars. The All-Star game is July 15 at Yankee Stadium.

Catcher: Joe Mauer, Twins—Hitting .326 with 36 RBI Mauer is the best catcher in the league right now.

First Base: Kevin Youkilis, Red Sox—Youk as outslugged Twins first baseman Justin Morneau (.532 to .438) so he gets the nod at first.

Second Base: Ian Kinsler, Rangers—He as been red-hot the first half of the season, batting .323 with 50 RBI an 13 home runs.

Third Base: Alex Rodriguez, Yankees—A-Rod is among the league leaders in average (.321) and doing it only 66 games. He had a hot June, batting .366.

Shortstop: Derek Jeter, Yankees—Even with his .275 average, he is still the best shortstop in the AL.

Outfielder: Josh Hamilton, Rangers—An easy choice, Hamilton leads the league with 82 RBI. He is also the best story in the majors.

Outfielder: J.D. Drew, Red Sox—Drew as filled in nicely in the absence of Big Papi. Batting .304 with 16 home runs. Drew also ranks among the top in the league in runs and OPS.

Outfielder: Carlos Quentin, White Sox—Quentin is second in the AL in home runs (16) and fourth in RBI (61).

Designated Hitter: Milton Bradley, Rangers—With 17 homers and 51 RBI Bradley is having an amazing season for the Rangers.

Starting Pitcher: Cliff Lee, Indians—With an 11-1 record Lee as been the ace of a struggling Indians staff. A 2.26 ERA and 93 K's Lee is having a career year.

Tiger Woods: He Saved His Best for Last

Michael Hicks — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 06:35:58 -0400

Tiger gave us his most memorable performance we'll ever see; winning the U.S. Open on one leg.

He saved his best for last.

Tiger will miss the rest of the year with ACL surgery. There are two major championships and the Ryder Cup left, but without Tiger, it won’t be must-see TV.

His absence will give other players the chance to step up and win, but without Tiger it will be like playing in a JV game.

His dad once said, "You will never meet anyone as mentally tough as you." If big Earl could see his boy now.

When told he would need at least another three weeks to rest the knee and the stress fracture, Woods response was one of a champion,

"I'm playing in the U.S. Open and I'm going to win."

Woods put his name up with Kurt Gibson and Willis Reed, he called his shot and he backed it up—going 91 holes to do it.

"You just keep going," Woods said Monday of his mind-set. "And there's no finish line."

We may never see Tiger be Tiger again. He is 32 and this is his fourth knee surgery of his career.

He says he will be 100 percent by the Masters. I would never count him out, but will he be 100 percent Tiger?

The stress his 100 mph swing puts on his left knee isn't going to change much.

He has changed his swing once and he will have to do it again, but he can't completely spare the knee from abuse.

He needs five more Majors to pass Jack and we all know he wants that record.

Save all the memories we have of Tiger pumping his fist after an eagle. Don't forget how he not only just won golf tournaments, he dominated them.

He will go down as the greatest golfer ever, but he is much more than that. He changed a sport. He took golf into the 21st century.

We are fortunate to have seen a master at his sport, a player that transcended the game of golf. I would not bet against this guy to come back from this, but will he be the same?

Knowshon Moreno Leads List of SEC Football Top Five Running Backs

Michael Hicks — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 08:44:44 -0400

You cannot expect to contend in the SEC without a strong running game. Here is a list of the top five backs that look to lead their teams to a championship in 2008.

1. Knowshon Moreno, Georgia

Moreno rushed for 1,334 yards, the second best by a freshman in school history. He became the first Georgia tailback since Herschel Walker to rush for over 100 yards in five straight games. He enters 2008 as a top Heisman candidate.

2. Arian Foster, Tennessee

Foster was the Vols' most versatile offensive weapon last season. He caught 39 passes for 340 yards and rushed for 1,193 yards (third best in the SEC), and 12 TDs on the ground. He is just 685 yards away from surpassing Travis Henry as the Vols' all-time leading rusher.

3. Anthony Dixon, Mississippi State

Dixion looks to build on a season in which he finished seventh in the SEC with 1,066 yards and 14 TDs. He can also be used as a receiver out of the backfield. He accounted for 16 of Mississippi State's 30 offensive touchdowns last season.

4. Brad Lester, Auburn

Lester rushed for 530 yards and three TDs last season, despite sitting out the first five games because of academic concerns. He will get the chance to show off his receiving skills in Tony Franklin's new spread offense.

5. Derrick Locke, Kentucky

Locke was recruited to run track for the Wildcats but shifted to football just before the season, and he did not disappoint. He rushed for 521 yards on 94 carries and had five TDs. He looks to be the key as the Wildcats shift to a run-oriented offense this season.

John Parker Wilson's Senior Year at Alabama Will Define Him

Michael Hicks — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 10:55:31 -0400

John Parker Wilson has been UA's starter at quarterback in each of the last two seasons.

He has thrown for 5,651 yards in his career with 37 total touchdown passes.

He owns the school record for both passing yards in a season and touchdowns in a season, and he is closing in on Brodie Croyle's school records for career passing yardage (6,382) and career TD passes (41).

Going into his senior season, he has yet to prove himself as a star in the SEC. His best performance last season was against rival Tennessee, in which he completed 32 of 46 passing attempts for 363 yards and three touchdowns.

However, he would erase all memories of that game with dismal performances against teams like Mississippi State and Louisiana-Monroe.

This season brings promise for the Tide and Wilson, who has been named to the 2008 Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award Watch List and is considered by most the third-best QB in the SEC.

But with his third offensive coordinator in three seasons, Wilson has not had the time to feel comfortable as a starter. For the Tide to have success on offense in 2008, he'd better learn quickly.

2008 will be a career-defining year for JPW, and I think he is up to the challenge to lead the Tide to a very successful season and put his name in the record books.

Open Mic: Joe DiMaggio's 56-Game Hit Streak Is One Record That Will Go Untouched

Michael Hicks — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 10:59:29 -0400

Joe DiMaggio's 56-game hit streak is one record that will never be broken.

In one magical season in 1941, "The Yankee Clipper" hit safely in 56 straight games. It is his greatest accomplishment in a Hall of Fame Career.

DiMaggio was a three-time MVP winner and 13-time All-Star, and he led the Yankees to nine titles in 13 years.

Touted by sportswriters as Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, and Shoeless Joe Jackson rolled into one, he made his major league debut on May 3, 1936.

In his first season he hit .323 with 29 Home Runs and 125 RBI.

The next season he won the American League MVP, and the Yankees won their second straight World Series.

The Streak Begins

On May 15, in a game against the Chicago White Sox, DiMaggio went one-for-four. He would get two more hits the next day.

When he surpassed twenty straight games with a hit on June 3 in a game against Detroit, the media and fans took notice.

Newspaper ran a daily column about the streak. The Les Brown Orchestra even wrote a song about the streak, "Joltin' Joe DiMaggio."

On June 17 he reached thirty straight games, then on July 5 DiMaggio broke the 45-game hit streak record set by Wee Willie Keeler in 1894. He now was alone at the top of the record books.

Joe would pass fifty and many believed the streak would go on forever.

The streak Ends

On July 17, 1941, in a game against the Cleveland Indians, pitcher Al Smith held "Joltin" Joe hitless.

The streak was over at 56 games. DiMaggio hit .408 during his streak, with 15 home runs and 55 RBIs.

The day after the streak ended, DiMaggio started another hitting streak that lasted 17 games.

At the time of his retirement at age 36, he had the fifth-most career home runs (361) and sixth-highest slugging percentage (.579) in history.

Only Cincinnat's Pete Rose (44 games in 1978) and the Brewers' Paul Molitor (39 games in 1987) have come close to breaking the record.

The 56-Game Hit Streak is one record that will stand the test of time in baseball lore.

SEC Football: Top Five Quarterbacks

Michael Hicks — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 15:35:40 -0400

When I compiled the names for this list, it occurred to me how many new faces will be under center in the SEC. Here is a list of the top five QBs taking the field this fall.

1. Tim Tebow, Florida

Tebow was unstoppable last season, throwing for 3,286 yards, rushing for another 895 yards, and scoring 55 touchdowns (32 passing, 23 rushing). He was the first quarterback to ever throw 20 touchdowns and rush for 20 touchdowns in one season. He is also the reigning Heisman Trophy winner.

2. Matthew Stafford, Georgia

Stafford has a 54.5 percent completion percentage, 4,272 yards, 26 touchdowns and 23 interceptions in two years as a starter. Stafford leads what many people believe to be the best team in the nation in 2008.

3. John Parker Wilson, Alabama

Wilson holds Alabama records for passing yards in a season and touchdowns in a season, and he should only improve going into his senior season. With 2,846 yards and 18 TDs last year, Wilson should allow new offensive coordinator Jim McElwain to get comfortable easily.

4. Jevan Snead, Ole Miss

After sitting out last season, the transfer from Texas steps in as Ole Miss' starting quarterback this season. He has arm strength, accuracy, and mobility. He was a highly sought-after recruit when he signed with Texas in 2006.

5. Kodi Burns, Auburn

Kodi burst onto the scene with a dazzling performance in the Peach Bowl, throwing a touchdown pass and running for the game-winning score in overtime. With new offensive coordinator Tony Franklin going to a spread offense, look for Burns to fit right in.

Any way you rank them, it is going to be an exciting year in the SEC.

Cubs-Braves: Road Woes Continue for Atlanta

Michael Hicks — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 16:40:43 -0400

With a 10-5 loss to the Cubs, the Atlanta Braves fall to a league worst 7-22 on the road.

To add insult to injury Atlanta starter Tom Glavine left the game in the third with a strained left elbow. Glavine (2-3) gave up four runs, six hits, and four walks while throwing 72 pitches in his second shortest outing of the season.

The Braves took an early 3-0 lead with a Greg Norton three-run homer off Chicago starter Ted Lilly.

Lilly worked six-and-a-third innings, allowing four hits and three runs, with three walks and eight strikeouts.

Chipper Jones made a pinch-hit appearance drawing a walk in the seventh.

The Braves cut the lead to just one in the eighth, until Geovany Soto hit a three-run home run—his 11th on the season.

The Braves have now lost four straight and fall below .500 (32-33) for the season.

Game Notes:

Jeff Francoeur is hitting only .240 (18 for 75) with runners in scoring position. The Cubs are now 27-8 in their home ballpark this season.

Braves-Phillies: Atlanta Swept for First Time This Season

Michael Hicks — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 08:35:25 -0400

With a 6-3 to win Sunday, the Philadelphia Phillies came into Turner Field and did what no other team as done all season, swept the Braves.

With Chipper Jones on the bench due to a slight tear in his quad, the Braves offense had nothing.

"Chipper's a difference-maker," manager Bobby Cox said. "You need him in the lineup. He can make a difference real quick."

Martin Teixeira had a two-run homer in the first to tie the game at two, but Atlanta missed a mound of opportunities with players in scoring position.

Ryan Howard came up big for the Phillies in the ninth with a double, his third of the game, scoring Shane Victorino.

Howard finished 3-for-5 with four RBI.

The loss now drops the Braves to .500 (32-32), and they start a 10-game road trip in Chicago on Tuesday.

Game Notes:

Philadelphia is now 5-1 against the Braves this season. This was Ryan Howard's first three-double game of his career. The Phillies outscored the Braves 8-1 after the seventh inning in the series.

Alabama Football: Receivers Look to Make a Difference in 2008

Michael Hicks — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 05:34:36 -0400

Incoming freshmen Julio Jones, Melvin Ray, and Destin Hood look to fill the void at wide receiver for the Crimson Tide.

Julio Jones comes in as one of the most celebrated recruits in history, and for good reason—in three seasons at Foley High he had 194 receptions for 3,287 yards and 43 touchdowns. He was Mr. Football of Alabama and the Gatorade Player of the Year.

Look for Julio to make an impact for the Tide early, much like Michael Crabtree at Texas Tech.

Melvin Ray is not getting the press like Jones, but he is just as good, with 48 catches for 912 yards—for an average of 19 yards per catch—with 13 touchdowns during his senior season at North Florida Christian.

Ray is a big receiver at 6'3", 202 pounds, but that does not slow him down—with a 4.5-second 40-meter dash, he can blow right by the defense.

Destin Hood is a two-sport star out of St. Paul's Episcopal High in Mobile, Ala.

Hood recorded 56 receptions for 986 yards and 15 touchdowns and was named an All-State performer.

He was also drafted 55th overall by the Washington Nationals in the MLB draft.

With these three coming to the Capstone, look for Alabama to be set at wide receiver for years to come.

Marlins-Braves: Chipper Jones Hits 400th Home Run

Michael Hicks — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 16:55:37 -0400

Atlanta Braves' third baseman Chipper Jones is a serious threat to hit .400 this season.

The switch-hitting slugger hit his 400th career home run Thursday night in a 7-5 victory over the Florida Marlins. In the process he raised his batting average to a league-leading .418. Jones becomes just the third switch-hitter to reach 400 home runs, joining the likes of Mickey Mantle and Eddie Murray.

Brian McCann and Yunel Escobar also hit home runs in the game.

Marlins' starter Ricky Nolasco gave up 12 hits, including three home runs, in five-and-two-thirds innings.

Hanley Ramirez hit his third homer in two games, with a blast in the first.

Even though they got the win, the struggles continued for Braves' starter Jair JurrJens, who gave up a season high 11 hits and five runs in six innings of work.

The Braves had to rally from a 5-3 deficit after Florida put up four runs in the fourth.

The closer role was played by Rafael Soriano, who got his third save on the season.

Random Thoughts: Don Cherry, A No-No and $9,000 Watches

Michael Hicks — Fri, 23 May 2008 12:19:26 -0400

It's Memorial Day weekend, and before I head out for a weekend of barbeque and war films, I thought I would share a few thoughts from the week in sports.

Jon Lester started off a great sports week with his no-hitter against the Royals. Even better, he started on my fantasy team that night. Is that not a great story? What a way to beat cancer.

How good are the NHL finals going to be, with Sid the Kid, Hockeytown, and Don Cherry on ESPN. If you can find Versus on your TV, watch it.

Can Crosby grow a playoff beard? I don't think he has shaved all season.

How come it has to be a Lakers-Celtics finals to save the NBA? The Spurs are a modern-day dynasty, and the Pistons are everything a team should be, these guys have been together for like six years.

Why does Rip Hamilton still wear that mask? Is he still hurt?

Why does Ray Allen still show up three hours before tipoff to warm up?

If you are a fan of SEC baseball, you cannot be happy with the final game on Thursday night ending at 1:30 a.m.

With the Chicago Bulls winning the lottery, I think that makes Chicago native Chris Rose a lock to be the first pick.

Does anybody care about the Indy 500 anymore?

Raise your hand if you watched Candace Parker's WNBA debut? (Nobody, that's what I thought.)

Final thought: Kobe Bryant bought all his teammates $9,000 watches for his MVP award, does that make up for calling them all losers and demanding a trade last year?

The Tide To Be Riding High in 2008

Michael Hicks — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 10:32:38 -0400

With spring football behind us and a couple of months until media days, let's take a look at Nick Saban's second season on the Capstone.

-Aug. 30 Clemson (at Atlanta): Clemson will be ranked in the top 10 coming into this with hopes of a BCS title game. The only plus is this game is in Atlanta, and Bama fans will travel. Early test for John Parker and company; expect a struggle for the offense against a strong Tiger defense. Clemson 24-17

-Sept. 6 Tulane: Nothing like a middle of the road C-USA team to work the kinks out of a new offense. Alabama 31-7

-Sept. 13 Western Kentucky: Back-to-back cupcakes to warm-up for a brutal road trip should serve the Tide well. Alabama 34-14

-Sept. 20 @Arkansas: Welcome back to the SEC, Bobby Petrino. This won't be D-Macs Razorbacks, but Fayetteville is always a tough place to play. Still, the offense should be hitting on all cylinders. Alabama 20-14

-Sept. 27 @ Georgia: The Bulldogs will be number one in the country and Knowshon Moreno should be making a Heisman run. To put it lightly, this will be a tough test for a young defense. Still, Bama plays up to its opponents, and Mark Richt teams are known to slip up at least one game per season. So, it expect a close one between the hedges. Georgia 26-20

-Oct. 4 Kentucky: Rich Brooks has Kentucky on the right track, but with the loss of Andre Woodson do not expect another 8-5 run by the Wildcats. After two tough road games the Tide will be happy to be back in front of the home crowd. Alabama 27-10

-Oct. 18 Ole Miss: The "Right-Reverend" Houston Nutt takes over the Rebels, and maybe he can get Colonel Reb to stop crying. A solid defense finally gets a SEC caliber QB in Texas transfer Jevon Snead, but the Rebels are still a year or two from competing in the very strong SEC west. Alabama 21-17

-Oct. 25 @Tennessee: Another tough SEC road game, but the Vols will be breaking in a new quarterback and a new offense. Still Alabama has only one win (2002) in Neyland since 1994. Tennessee 21-17

- Nov. 1 Arkansas State (Homecoming): lets hope the Tide show up to play this year, coming off last years let down against La. Monroe. Should be a good game for the backups and freshman to get some experience. Alabama 38-10

-Nov. 8 @LSU: Do you think this game is circled on Les Miles calendar? Nick Saban returns to Baton Rouge for the first time since raising the crystal football in 2003. Will Ryan Perrilloux still be under center for the Tigers? Will the "process" finally come full circle with a Saban shocker? Alabama 23-20

-Nov. 15 Mississippi State: Will the Tide end the two game skid against the fighting Crooms? This game will be better than most think but the Tide will not look past the Bulldogs for a third year in a row. Alabama 27-17

-Nov. 29 Auburn: There are six-year-old Bama fans that don't know what it's like to beat Auburn. The last time "Rammer Jammer" rained down on the Auburn faithful was in 2002. Well, fire up the band cause there will not be a louder place than Bryant-Denny stadium that November night. John Parker and this senior class will put their stamp in the Bama record books. Alabama 27-20

The Tide will end the 2008 season 9-3, vastly improved from Saban's first season. With tough road games, and if the injury bug bites, the lack of depth will show. So it could be worse. However, with a senior quarterback and Saban having one more year to shape the program, expect the Tide to be riding high in 2008.