Bleacher Report - Articles by James Turner

Edge and Chris Jericho: Tag Champs and Future Leaders of The WWE

James Turner — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 02:04:31 -0400

I don't know why I just had this sudden image come across my mind. Actually, it was this past Monday when I watched Jericho and Edge give their first promo as Tag Team Champions. Something connected inside of me that made me really believe WWE really is the state of the art when it comes to professional wrestling. Edge and Chris Jericho have the enormous potential to be the most powerful duo in WWE history.

I think the fact that the tag team champions are able to fight on any show because of the fact that they can create rivalries from different shows. They can also bring a different element into different shows. More importantly, two guys like Edge and Jericho will bring prestige back to the tag team titles.

My favorite thing about Jericho and Edge being the tag team champions is the fact that if the WWE were to make this angle work both can not only be the tag team champs, but also the World Champions.

Think about Edge beating Punk for the title and Jericho defeating Orton for the title. That probably won't even happen, but the thought of it would really bring some true flavor back into the WWE. That will also solidify these two Canadians as bigger legends than they already are.

All I'm saying is that we have the two biggest heels in the business as the Tag Team Champions. With an opportunity like this, you should always seize a moment because you never know if these two will be as hot as they are now. They are the present and still future of the WWE.

Let the Tag Team Champions Chris Jericho and Edge get a chance to at least battle for the World Heavyweight Titles. That's good enough for me. I'm out.

JT's Top 25 All-Time Wrestlers

James Turner — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 03:55:45 -0400

Since I'm turning 25 years old next year, I decided to go with 25. Now, I'm making this list based on storylines and in-ring skills more than anything. I am also considering the individual's victories over certain stars and their championships they've held. I'm not judging by if it's fake or not, just by what they've done during their reign and if they would have won in an actual storyline match up.

Honorable Mentions: Booker T and The Great Muta

25. Eddie Guerrero—A true great. I put him on, not even because of his passing. Just the things he had done will always be remember in my and many others' eyes. Plus, he defeated Brock Lesnar once. Not many people did.

24. Kevin Nash—That Jackknife Power-bomb has taken out even the best of wrestlers; and it was pretty deadly too.

23. AJ Styles—He wasn't even about to make the list, but he's the face of TNA. He is truly a future Hall of Famer; and I think he can take both Nash and Guerrero out. Well, I'm not so sure about Eddie Guerrero, but that would be a classic match.

22. Edge—He is my current favorite wrestler and I love his theme. I'm sort of biased with him in the Top 25, but his gimmick matches were classic and make up for that.

21. Yokozuna—For someone his size, he was pretty agile and actually put on some really good matches. He was, pretty much, unstoppable. That Banzai Drop knocked out everyone. LITERALLY!

20. Vader—One of the most dominant wrestlers to ever step foot in a wrestling ring, his power-bomb was the deadliest of them all. He was very agile, too. Vader could beat you in many ways.

19. Chris Jericho—He actually made my list, although I don't believe he's as good as he used to be back in WCW and his first stint in WWE. His Code-breaker truly makes up for what he once had. He hasn't lost much, but he has lost a step or two; and that Walls of Jericho is weak. Now, the Lion-tamer, on the other hand, was a classic submission, probably the best.

18. Big Poppa Pump—Formerly known as Scott Steiner. This is based more on him when he wasn't that genetic freak. Even when he did become steroided up he was still effective. That Frankensteiner is still one of the best moves to ever watch. It still brings chills.

17. Chris Benoit—Benoit was as technical as a wrestler could be. His cross-face was deadly, but he was one who would tap out quickly to a submission. He rarely held his own; and he would let the big finisher take him out one too many times to make it in the Top 10. He had great offense and good counters, but his defense by itself wasn't the best.

16. Triple H—His resume puts him this high. He has beaten some of the best. I don't really see him beating a guy like Sting or Bret Hart in their primes, not even Kurt Angle or the next guy on the list.

15. Lex Luger—I feel Luger is one of the Top Five under-rated wrestlers ever. He was strong, but he put on some classic matches; and that Torture Rack was damn near impossible for anyone to escape from.

14. Andre The Giant—He's just the big giant. Enough said.

13. Hulk Hogan—The only reason I have him this high is because when he started to "Hulk Up" that was pretty much the end of any wrestler. I mean, literally, any wrestler. That's the only reason he's in the Top 15. He did beat Andre, so that puts him over The Giant.

12. Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat—Now, I already considered him a Top 15 contender before with his classic matches with Flair, but after Wrestlemania, there's no doubt he deserves to stay in up in the Top 15. In some ways, he should be in the Top 10.

11. Brock Lesnar—I almost had him in the Top 10. He didn't stay long enough to get up there, but he did make such an impact that I see him given any of the Top 10s a run for their money, or their title.

Wildcard: This goes to the wrestler who didn't crack Top 10, but is still in between the No. 10 and No. 11 spots.

John Cena—I thought he was going to hit the Top 10, and in some ways he deserves it. Give this man his respect. I haven't seen anyone this dominant as a face since the Undertaker back in the old days. Cena may not be the best wrestler, but he has beaten some of the very best; and only reason he's not in the Top 10 is because he hasn't fought any of the wrestlers in the Top 10, except HBK and the Undertaker. He just hasn't fought them in their primes.

10. The Rock—I didn't think he would make Top 10, but the way he can will his way to victory has made him an icon in this sport. It always seemed like nothing can keep him down for the three count or he would never submit. As I write this, he does deserve to be in the Top 10.

9. Macho Man Randy Savage—He will always be one of my favorites ever. That elbow drop can take out any wrestler. If he missed, though, that's pretty much it for him in that match. He was truly under-rated and under-appreciated. He stayed in Hogan's shadow, but I always felt he was better.

8. Bill Goldberg—A lot may not agree with this spot, but winning over 200 victories without a loss is unheard of; and he ran through most competition too. I don't see too many wrestlers actually beating Goldberg. Even though he wasn't a technical wrestler, he had technical skills. If all else failed, he would Spear you through the roof and hit a Jackhammer for good measures.

7. Stone Cold Steve Austin—Even back in WCW as Stunning Steve Austin, he still blew through competition, along with Brian Pillman as the Hollywood Blondes. Austin 3:16 was something on another level. That Stone Cold Stunner can knock out anyone, including Goldberg. He could never seem to beat The Rock with that Stunner, though. Stone Cold vs. The Rock was one of the best rivalries ever.

6. The Undertaker—Well-deserved. He is Mr. WWE. His career speaks for itself.

5. Ric Flair—The all-time great. Even in his prime, I don't see him beating anyone in the Top Four on this list. That Figure Four was a deadly submission during his prime. He was the leader of the second greatest stable: The Four Horsemen. The NWO was No. 1 stable.

4. Kurt Angle—This was hard to put him right at this spot. Almost had him at No. 2. Although he did beat Michaels at Wrestlemania, I don't see him beating HBK in his true prime. I'm still up in the air about that. Any of these Top Four wrestlers can beat each other on any given day.

3. Sting—This hurts me to put him at No. 3. He is my favorite wrestler ever. HANDS DOWN! He never fought HBK, and I see him beating HBK, but HBK has beaten the No. 2 wrestler.

2. Bret Hart—The only reason he's above Sting is because he has more victories over Sting than Sting has over him. The best there is, the best there was, and truly the best there ever will be.

1. Shawn Michaels—He is my favorite WWE wrestler of all time. He beat Bret Hart when it really mattered. I'm not talking about the screw-job, but Wrestlemania in the Iron Man Match. That match will always be his classic. He has numerous ones, including the one with The Undertaker, but the impact he has made during his career puts him on top of this list. Plus, he's a class act. ALL HAIL HBK!

That's my list. Feel free to comment and put your opinion on who you feel is the greatest. Thank you for your time.

Washington Redskins: Super Bowl Bound: Man of Honor

James Turner — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 04:05:54 -0400

James Turner walks up to the podium to give his press conference:

Reporter One: Mr. Turner, how does it feel to be back apart of this Washington Redskins organization?

"It feels good to be back as apart of the Washington Redskins this season. I'm feeling refreshed. Ready to get back with the team and prepare us for a very long season this year."

Reporter Two: Now when you say a long season, what do you mean by that? And do you expect your team to do better than the 8-8 season that you guys put together last year?

"I believe we're going to do better than people's expectations. You see people don't really know the abilities that we are capable of. People don't really understand that we have the tools to do great this season. And when I say great I mean not only make the playoffs but make a run at the Lombardi trophy."

Reporter One: What makes you so sure that your team is capable of making it to the big dance? That's pretty much what you're telling us right?

"Let me tell you something miss. We're better than a lot of the teams in the NFL. And truth be told, we have the players, coaching staff and the tenacity to be the best team in the National Football League."

Reporter Two: You guys still went 8-8 last year. After a 6-2 start, then you guys dropped six out of eight. That's unheard of these days. You think you guys really going to strive to become a better team?

"One thing I love about your reporters is that you guys remind me of haters. Haters are people who always find something to hate on about a person, place or thing. I believe that's called a noun. Even when there isn't a reason to hate, haters find something to hate about.

"We're already a better team than last year. We're not only going to have a better record than 8-8. We're going to win the NFC East. Did you just not hear me say that to you when you asked me last time? Just like a hater, never listens, just criticizes.

"Last season, we started out with a tough loss in New York to the Giants. Everybody were ready to throw us under the bus. We then win four straight games including two tough road games against the Cowboys and Eagles. Still everyone wrote us off and we get to a 6-2 record.

"But with every team, you're going to have some type of adversity. And people who are true NFL fans have witness the Redskins overcome some serious adversity over the last couple of years.

"Back in the '05-'06 season, we lost three straight to go 5-6. Everyone wrote us off, but what did we do? We win our last five games of the season to get into the postseason. Now despite what people say, not every team can come through in the clutch and win their last five games at the end of the season. Especially, with the last three games against their divisional opponents. But we did it with convincing fashion."

Reporter Three: But Mr. Turner. What does this have to do wit-.

"I'm not done ma'am. HATERS! '07-'08 season, we lose three straight games to go 5-6. That next week, our fallen soldier, our teammate, our friend, our family member goes down with us. We lose that next game to Buffalo at home.

"Two timeouts were called. The field goal goes in. Our hearts are broken. The stadium is in tears. That had to be the worst feeling ever for me as a professional athlete, maybe in my life.

"We go to Sean's funeral the next day. Get ready for a Thursday night game where our starting QB goes down for the rest of the season. Our team is on IVs as we were gasping up air to finish the game but we come out with the victory.

"We then beat the Giants at their stadium in a game where the Giants win and they're in. We then go to Minnesota to play Adrian Peterson and those fiesty Vikings. If they win they're in. We hold Peterson to under 40 yards and ended their chances to make the postseason.

"We then beat our archrival Dallas Cowboys in the season finale to make the postseason"

Reporter Four: Now what does that have to do with what we were talking about?

"It has a lot to do with this situation. We're a team that has overcome adversity year after year. Just like those times that I just mentioned, we had a man who sometimes seemed like God himself.

"There will never be another Joe Gibbs. There aren't too many coaches that can bring a team together after losing a teammate who was also the key to our success and arguably the best player on our team. Joe Gibbs determination and character is something you can NEVER EVER replace.

"Now we have a different coach, a rookie coach in Jim Zorn. He started our season right out of the gate. Then, adversity hit us and we didn't respond as a team like we did with Gibbs. We were use to Gibbs. Now we have Zorn. We got on a losing skid and things got out of hand."

Reporter Three: So do you feel you guys have fixed your problems with the coaching staff and the owner and ready to serious bid for a Super Bowl title? And what makes you so sure your team is actually ready?

"Let me tell you something, Jim Zorn said it best to us last year. He told us that he doesn't want to just have a team that's trying to fight for just a playoff spot. He wants to build a team that's ready for a fight for that Lombardi trophy. That look in his eyes said so much to us in our that locker room.

"You know why we're ready for a Super Bowl run? Because we have all the tools to contend for a Super Bowl.

"We had a hell of a draft the last two seasons. We drafted the rookie receivers just to get them ready for this season. We're expecting a lot out of Devin Thomas, Malcolm Kelley, even big Fred Davis. This should be their breakout year. We have high expectations out of them.

"We were one of very few teams to rank in the bottom eight in sacks and still rank in the top five defenses of last season. That shows a lot of dedication and team defense we had played together.

"Now we have revamp our defensive line. Andre Carter is looking for a breakout year. Phillip Daniels is back and our new DE/LB Brian Orakpo to make plays. Then, how can we forget about the big bruiser in free agency, Albert Haynesworth. Our secondary is still intact. London Fletcher will be the captain of our defense. So I fear for whoever goes up against us this year.

"We have an offense that's looking to be more productive than last year. Clinton Portis is perhaps in his best shape in his whole career. He's dropped some pounds, almost close to 15 so he can gain that speed and balance he once had back in Denver.

"Our weakness we have fixed. We got Derrick Dockery back. We have a healthy line ready to open up these holes and protect for our QB who's going to lead us to the promise land.

"For everyone who has put down Jason Campbell throughout the past year are going to get a rude awakening. One thing about a QB that plays off emotion is when you nag at his emotions and do things like try to trade him for a whiny QB or trade up for an unproven rookie, it tends to get under his skin. He may not say much about it but rest to sure Campbell is ready to play lights out football this season.

"So say what you want about Campbell. He's in his contract year and he will prove to not only us or the fans but to himself that he is the man for this job. So look forward to seeing Jason Campbell in the pro bowl this year.

"Last but not least, we have a great coaching staff, led by the man Jim Zorn. I told you all last year that Jim Zorn was the man that was going to lead us to the promised land. After a year getting comfortable with him, I stand behind that 100 percent.

"Jim Zorn is the modern day Joe Gibbs. He has the character, the faith, the belief and knowledge to build a team. Gibbs assemble a good squad in his four years here and Zorn is putting the finishing touches to it. One thing Zorn has over Gibbs these days is that edge to succeed. And trust that he will succeed."

Reporter Four: So what is your position with this organization this year?

Reporter One: You played in this league for 13 years now. You started off with Washington, left to San Diego and spent your last five years with the Redskins.

Reporter Three: What brought you back to sign this two-year contract at the age of 34?

Reporter Two: What do you plan to bring to the team this year?

"What brought me back to sign this two year contract this year? Let's see. My body is not as what it use to be. I can't jump as high as I use to. I don't have the acceleration I once had. I can't even make my elusive jukes that have separated me from the pack.

"I still have my talents that I need to succeed in this league. I can still catch the ball as well as any player in this league. I still can get off the line and run my routes. I can still defend the pass very well. I can still hit you and make solid tackles.

"I bring that leadership that this team needs. I bring the confidence this team has. I bring the ability to make plays in the clutch. I'm the security blanket for the QB and the playmaker that I've always been. Last but not least, I have the will to will this team to victory. That's what I still can bring to this Washington Redskins organization."

Reporter Four: So tell us, Mr. Turner: What should everyone expect from the Washington Redskins this coming season?

"A team who doesn't slack and put their all into every play and every position. A team that is willing to stick it to the best of teams and run over the competition of the teams that are not so good. Expect the unexpected.

"We have very high expectations and we will do everything in our power to come out on top of the NFC East. Expect us to succeed in the postseason make a run for that Lombardi trophy. Rest to sure when January comes around, everyone will be talking about the Washington Redskins. Thank you for your time."

Winning The Gold: That's What Makes A Superstar

James Turner — Sun, 24 May 2009 23:02:15 -0400

I put this profile pic as the headline for a purpose (as most B/R writers do). This is a significant photo right here. This is Chris Jericho as the first ever Undisputed Champion ever.

Think about back in December 2001, when Jericho beat both Austin and The Rock in the same night at Armageddon. That really elevated him to the top of the business, even if it was only for a few months.

What if he hadn't won the title that night? What if Austin beat Angle like he did but Jericho would have lost to the Rock and we would have an Austin vs. Rock battle—which are always saved for WrestleMania—do you feel Jericho would still be looked at as the legend that many people consider him today? Do you believe that when Jericho return to the WWE back in late 2007 and didn't win those two heavyweight titles that he would still be praised as a legend?

I truly doubt he would. As great as Jericho is as a wrestler, he winning those numerous titles helped people see him as an established star who has had a very successful professional wrestling career. Without his three short world title reigns, he would be nothing more than a Razor Ramon, or even a Kane. Yes I went there with Kane.

You have to understand that winning world titles establishes you more of a true star within the WWE. That Batista versus John Cena match back in Summerslam 2008 would have been crap if those two didn't have numerous title reigns under their belt.

Not crap as if their match wasn't good but crap as in the hype wouldn't be anything more than a John Morrison/Sheldon Benjamin fued. No disrespect to thsoe two future greats.

Vince is a smart man and he knows that he needs to have well-established stars in order for his company to succeed. He did it with Hulk Hogan with his American gimmick and had him win titles in a heroic way. Even Bischoff established Hogan with the numerous titles he held with the NWO.

No matter how bad a wrestler may perform those world title victories give them so much credibility to their name. Austin would not be who he is. The Rock would still be great because he was so damn funny. Even HHH would be nothing more than a DX has been without his 10 plus title reigns. Then again, Austin would still be great without the titles.

I think of Edge and his current stature in the WWE. He has become a nine time world champion in the course of three years. Edge has had a great career with his classic rivalries with Kurt Angle and Christian and the classic TLC matches that really put him over the top—even the incident with him, Lita, and Matt Hardy. Those moments with Edge have one thing in common, that was before his world title reigns.

He then became the ultimate opportunist and takes advantage of a beated up John Cena and wins his first world title. That moment has ignited a three year rivalry between Cena and Edge. Even though WWE is scripted, you start to believe those two really don't like each other. They are the new Austin-Rock. Yes I went there too.

Nine world titles later, Edge is the show of Smackdown and has carried that show for a couple of years now with his classic rivalries with Undertaker/Batista/Jeff Hardy, even Cena still—and he's on Raw.

I may have gone off topic with Edge, but it states my point to this article: These current world champions (and the historical past champions) brought prestige to the title and the companies that they fought in.

Even the Intercontinetal and the United States Title have established stars. You think if Sheldon Benjamin didn't hold the US title that long over this past year he will still be getting recognition? Actually, that's Benjamin so he will always get a chance to shine. But his name wouldn't be of such significance as it is now.

CM Punk, with his triple crown championship victories over the last year with two money in the bank victories, he could be considered a superstar. I got much love for CM Punk. He has a good theme song, great charisma, and a great GTS finishing move. Say what you want about him but he's an established star, and his time is coming soon as well. His time may be now.

You have to win championships to be considered great. Most of the WWE hall of famers were world championships at some point. And if they didn't win a world title they held some type of gold within their reign as a professional wrestler.

I know I'm going long with this article but this article can go for days.

Now another good example is a stable which I adore to watch even though I don't watch the program that much. The Main Event Mafia in TNA. I wish I was home Thursdays to watch them in action. Bischoff would have made this stable shine.

Booker T, Big Poppa Pump, Kevin Nash, Kurt Angle, and Sting have numerous world title victories...around 30 world title reigns between the five (too lazy to recount history). Whenever they fight in TNA, the crowd are always against them. They are like Galiats and everyone else is Davids.

They draw though for TNA. I bet if they came into WWE as a stable that would draw big money. Main Event Mafia in a Survivor Series match with Cena/HHH/Edge/HBK/Undertaker. That would be a HUGE match. Probably the best Survivor Series matchup ever.

I would pay to see this match. I got my money on MEM. Angle and Sting are the two best to ever wrestle, along with Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels and Ric Flair.

So to sum this all up, we need the same wrestlers to continue to win world titles. Batista/Cena/Orton/HHH/Edge/Jericho/Taker, they have shown they can carry the company so Vince trusts the title in their hands...even CM Punk.

The more titles they win the more credibility they gain amongst the fans that grow to love them. No matter who you are, EVERYONE always remember a champion. If you're entertaining that makes you a true superstar. The Rock's charisma made him a huger star than you will ever get these days.

A true testament to the mark you make in professional wrestling history with the heavyweight title victories and special moments that fans will always cherish...that's what makes you a legend.

HBK Vs. The Undertaker: A Tribute To Two WWE Legends

James Turner — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:30:27 -0400

So the 500th episode of Smackdown is on tonight, and as a true wrestling fan that's currently on spring break, I changed up my plans just to devote this evening to nothing but wrestling.

The match is HBK vs. The Undertaker. There is no need to hype up this match because everyone has been talking about it since last year. Instead, I want to break down the two most influential and evolutionary superstars to ever step in the WWE ring. There hasn't been anyone as loyal and dedicated to the WWE than Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker.

Undertaker has dedicated his life to the WWE. His gimmick is one that we will all remember. Although he once despised such things at one point in his career, he returned in 2000 with the biker gimmick. Who would have thought a guy like the Undertaker could come back as a whole new gimmick and still get the praise that he got?

It goes to show you how much people truly respect him. This man has put on classic matches and even had been the inventor and first to fight in some of the most used gimmick matches. Buried Alive, Inferno, Casket, and the infamous Hell In A Cell, which he made an instant classic along, are among those now-famous fights. Note: The last time these two fought was, in fact, the first Hell In A Cell.

These matches are still being used by other wrestlers that don't even involve the deadman. He has paved the way for wrestlers to come up with their own gimmicks. And he's probably the only wrestler who can gain more fans with a change of a gimmick then can go back to the original gimmick he started with, all with one company.

Look at wrestlers like Goldust, Mr. Ass, Brooklyn Brawler, Kane, and others who had numerous gimmicks that couldn't really fly with the crowd. Taker is in a league of his own.

As for Shawn Michaels, I don't need to say any more about him. His gimmick has been the same throughout his career. What makes his gimmick worth praising is the simple fact that the HBK character has evolved throughout his whole career. He never really got stale; from the Rockers days to his current religious ways, he has always stolen the show and he continues to gain more fans.

He has been very loyal to Vince McMahon, just like the Undertaker. And I never really heard rumors about them ever leaving WWE to defect to WCW. They stuck to the same company throughout their successful careers.

That leads us to Wrestlemania XXV. Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker. Mr. Everything vs. Mr. WWE. Which one is which, you ask?

Mr. Everything is the wrestler who has the complete package: Wrestling ability, mic skills, great with the fans, charisma, and big-time moments that help define their legacy. The one that Vince will depend on to deliver a quality special moment that fans can remember for years to come.

Mr. WWE is the wrestler who has done everything throughout their careers. Win big time matches, have big-time moments, win heavyweight titles, make himself an established star for more than a decade. Reach people's hearts and survive the many different generations throughout their WWE stint. One who has generated millions of dollars to the company. One that even casual fans recognize.

So which wrestler deserves to be Mr. Everything and which one deserves to be Mr. WWE? They both do. These two have already cemented their legacies for many years to come. They can retire today and both would be remembered throughout the generations of the WWE.

They have done everything throughout their illustrious careers and they are the two that Vince has counted to steal the show at Wrestlemania in their home state of Texas.

WWE is investing perhaps more money on this bout than anyone on the card. And, with all due respect to the others, the Undertaker and Shawn Michaels deserve every bit of praise they will receive at Wrestlemania XXV. Win or lose, they are still winners in many people's eyes. Whether you like HBK or The Undertaker, you respect them.

I am looking forward to a classic bout between the two most loyal, dedicated, influential, and legacy-defining individuals to ever grace the WWE ring.

ALL HAIL HBK! Greatest Superstar to Grace Professional Wrestling

James Turner — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 02:21:15 -0500

I've been wanting to write an article on the heartbreak kid, Shawn Michaels ever since I've arrived to Bleacher Report. I didn't know what I really wanted to say about him. I still don't really know. I do know one thing though, HBK is the greatest superstar to ever step in a professional ring. That's not an opinion. This is a fact.

First Reign:

I remember Shawn Michaels when him and Marty Jannetty form The Rockers. This was a great era in professional wrestling. During the early '90s, The Rockers were the cruiserweights of professional wrestling before there was even a Rey Mysterio, Billy Kidman, or an Evan Bourne. Michaels and Jannetty were the high flyers with so much charisma and great team chemistry.

Then, the unthinkable happened. Shawn Michaels finally broke out of his shell as he turned his back on Marty Janetty. Everyone thought at that time that Michaels was just going through some things and they would patch things up. That's what it seemed like as the two did end up kissing and making up.

All of a sudden, Michaels connected with the "Sweet Chin Music" right to the chin of Jannetty then slammed his head right into the glass window. That was truly a classic WWF moment.

Fast forward pass the Sensational Sherri days of Shawn Michaels and onto the Heartbreak Kid version of Shawn Michaels as he held the heart break lounge along with his bodyguard, Diesel. That helped elevate Michaels to some degree although Diesel aka Kevin Nash became WWF Champion before HBK did.

HBK wins his first of back to back Royal Rumbles but loses to Diesel at Wrestlemania only to win the Rumble again and beats Bret Hart in the infamous Iron Man Match at that Wrestlemania XII to win his first World Championship.

Fast forward to 1997 where he infamous screwjob took place. We all knew what happen there. It showed HBK being the man that was always in the midst of controversy. This really elevated him into a mega hated superstar in the WWE.

Shawn Michaels would then turn over his reign as the superstar of the WWE to the Texas Rattlesnake, Stone Cold Steve Austin. Michaels retires with a back injury and he doesn't wrestle for four years.

During his first reign during the WWE before his injury, I don't think there was another superstar who was as controversial as Shawn Michaels. I know there were guys like Bret Hart, Stone Cold, and Ric Flair. None of them went over and beyond to make a name for themselves and make decisions during his career that would still be talked about till this day.

Yeah, Stone Cold attacked McMahon and spray everyone with a beer truck. Bret Hart flipped off every American during his angle when he was representing the Canadians. That is nothing than the backstabbing Michaels took on camera and off camera to reach the top. And once he got to the top, he showed everyone why he was the true showstopper of the WWE. He could have retired for good here and still been a hall of famer. He decided to make a return.

Second Reign:

Shawn Michaels returns to action for the first time in four years at Summerslam 2002, where he put on a classic rivalry for the ages with Triple H. This rivalry went on for nearly three years with Michaels picking up the last victory during the Tribute to Troops show. http://bleacherreport.com/articles/50453-hhh-vs-hbk-rivarly-of-the-decade

This showed that HBK really had what it took to still be a quality contender for the main title. This side of HBK is a different side from his first reign in the WWE. He's not the selfish guy that many said he was back in the '90s. He was more of a man who gave back and was truly a believer in God. He was willing to put over anybody in a match and give his all into a storyline.

That's what makes HBK stand out amongst everyone else during his second stint. He will put his all into a storyline and really makes wrestling believable to all fans. You kind of forget how scripted wrestling really is when HBK is on the scene. He will leave it all out on the line and he will put his body to the test. Don't believe me? Ask Ric Flair at Wrestlemania XXIV.

Watching Raw this past Monday against John Cena really cemented his legacy to me. He has not only put on a classic match and a potential match of the year with Cena but he turned the most hated storyline in many eyes into the most intriguing storyline in WWE right now.

What really gives HBK my respect is that he's giving his all into a storyline with JBL. JBL is one of the most hated wrestlers in the WWE and a lot of people hate to see him on TV. There weren't too many people that wanted to buy into this storyline but HBK put his pre-retirement to the side to work a storyline with a guy that no one really like to respect. That gives HBK respect there because he's not looking at JBL as a boring angle to work with but he's embellishing it and bringing it to life.

Shawn Michaels is perhaps the greatest wrestler of all-time in many people's eyes. I personally believe that he's the greatest and he can go toe to toe with any superstar to ever wrestled. He deserves more than just praised from wrestling fans and critics, he deserves the red carpet and the franchise tag. Shawn Michaels is the franchise of the WWE and all of professional wrestling. He is without a shadow of a doubt, a true class act.

I love to watch HBK on television. I would praise him if I've seen him in person. We must take this time to appreciate GREATNESS. There will never be another Shawn Michaels. Appreciate him now. ALL HAIL H-B-K!

Donovan McNabb: Respect the Man...His Coach...and the Whole Organization!

James Turner — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 22:58:48 -0500

As rude as the Eagles fans are, I can't stand their damn fans. But I respect the hell out of the Philadelphia Eagles Organization. That team has really rallied behind each other. Andy Reid is the man behind the machine of warriors that take the field every Sunday.

And McNabb is the Eagle Engine who drives this team of warrior birds to the success they have achieved over the last two months and into this Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the Arizona Cardinals.

I think about that tied game against the Bengals a couple months ago. That was a funny scenario with McNabb not knowing the overtime rule, lol. I thought all players knew. I knew there was an OT. Good thing Ben Roethlisberger had his back publicly that he didn't know there was an overtime either.

Then we had the incident the week after that where the controversial call with Andy Reid benched McNabb during a game against the Ravens where they were losing 10-7 at the time he was benched.

For some odd reason, I believed Andy Reid knew what he was doing when he put McNabb on the bench. That woke up the whole team, especially the franchise QB and the head coach.

It helped open up the organization to let them know that no one was safe on that team. What was a so-call "stupid decision" made by the media and a lot of people I know is now the smartest decision made by any coach during this whole NFL season.

Think about it. A decision that was against all odds and even against the franchise QB turned out to be the driving force for this run that they had at the end of the season.

They nearly ran the table at the end of this season, besides the season sweep by my Redskins. But I can't talk about us right now because we're watching them in the playoffs.

Now, as a Redskins fan, I can say that I respect every team inside the NFC East, which is still the best division in football. Yes, that's including the Dallas Cowboys. Cowboy fans are usually the ones that I hate the most because they talk so much trash.

But the last two months its been the Eagles fans, which I can't stand right now because Eagle fans are sore losers. But I can give credit where credit is due. If your team is winning, then I feel you can talk all the trash they want. So big ups to the Eagles.

This whole article I'm writing is really for one reason. Andy Reid said it best, "Donovan McNabb is the best quarterback in the NFL." Now I've always thought McNabb was one of the best QB's in the NFL and at some points during his four straight NFC Championship game runs, I was actually considering him as the best QB in the NFL.

Now at this very point of the NFL, I can honestly admit this and I'm making this a public service announcement. Donovan McNabb is the best quarterback in the NFL. He's also playing the best football in his entire career.

Now, I'm not just saying that he's the best because he's in the NFC championship game. I'm saying he's the best quarterback in the NFL because he led his team back to the NFC Championship when their backs were against the wall. He led this team during pure fire and determination.

Thing that makes matters even more in his favor as the best QB is that he doesn't even have all-star quality receivers. I mean, Kevin Curtis is a decent receiver but on a really good team, like the Patriots, he's like fifth string.

Jason Avant is inconsistent but can make plays at times. L.J. Smith...I forget he is even on the team sometimes. DeSean Jackson is the truth though. He has potential to have a tremendous career, maybe even a hall of famer by the time he retires. That all depends on his hard work.

But the driving force to this team is none other than Brian Westbrook. That man is a true future hall of famer. He's gotten better each and every year in his career. He deserves the praise that he gets. He is as tough as it comes.

No matter how good this team is offensively, they would be nothing without Mr. McNabb himself. The way he just makes plays and extends them and makes even more plays are beyond my imagination. You can't stop him.

When McNabb is fully focused on the game, there is no one better than him. This team is going to go as far as McNabb takes them. Oh! Of course you know we can't forget about their defense.

Say what you want about this defense of no namers really, but Jim Johnson has gotten this team playing to the best defense I've seen them play since their championship runs. The thing that makes these Eagles so scary to play right now is that they're playing like a true team.

That's why I respect this team. They play for one another and their fans. They're not worried about anyone else. And any team that can come together and play their hearts out like they have been doing and pull out those victories, I will always have love for them. As for their fans, kiss my you know what.

This team is like last year's New York Giants. When everyone counted them out those Giants put together an incredible run. Just like what the Eagles are doing. That's funny when I think about it because one of my closest friends, who is an Eagles fan and a sore loser himself, told me over the summer that I'm always cheering players and teams because of the emotions I feel for them.

I told him that football is a game of emotions. And it truly is about emotions. When you put your all into the game and put your emotions and play your heart out, whether you win or lose you will always have a shot at winning the game. And seeing Brian Dawkins breakdown like a little girl (Yes, still talking trash), it was kind of emotional though.

I kind of feel for them. I really feel McNabb more than anyone. Because no matter what happen this season, Donovan McNabb is leaving Philadelphia. If he wins the Super Bowl, he is still leaving Philly.

Donovan McNabb forgives the Eagles fans for all the boos he always gotten in Philly. He hasn't forgotten how you all wanted him out of Philadelphia too. McNabb has had some injury problems over the last couple of years but he also did what a lot of other injured prone QB's couldn't do.

He came back at full strength from all his injuries and he's playing the best football as a QB.

Actually, I take that back. Big Ben and Kurt Warner are doing better than McNabb, too. Only in stats. In making big plays, I give it to McNabb. As much as he forgives everyone in Philly, he does not forget. So you guys better hope you McNabb can continue to lead this Eagle team to the Super Bowl and actually win it.

Because that will be your only Lombardi trophy you punk *** fans will ever get. So you all better enjoy it. Because he is going to leave to either to Chicago, his hometown, or Minnesota, with dangerous Adrian Peterson. I see him going to Chicago Bears, where the fans will appreciate him for the rest of his career.

Donovan McNabb is leaving the Philadelphia Eagles at the end of this season. Andy Reid is maybe leaving, too. And I think Reid knows that McNabb is leaving, too. That's why they're pulling out all the stops and playing and coaching their best football of the season. Perfect timing, too. But McNabb is getting his stock up. So be prepared for the end of the Philadelphia Eagle organization. You guys will have to rebuild yourselves.

I love the NFL. Everyone who reads this article fully also loves football, too. And if you're a true Eagles fan, you will have read this whole article. This article is a true testament to what the Andy Reid and Donovan McNabb era has come to.

Hope Kelvin Kolb or whatever that second stringer is going to lead you Westbrook fans back to the promise land.

You bitter fans will get your karma coming right back at you. I actually believe the Eagles can win the Super Bowl. Do all the talking you can. Because guess what? The Washington Redskins swept the Eagles this year. HAHAHA!!!! Bitter fans, lol.

Come on, Eagle fans, laugh with me. I'm laughing at y'all. 'Skins still a better team than you guys. And you wouldn't beat us in the playoffs. Yeah, I'm getting my last bit in this article. Enjoy your last run. I love the profile pic to this article.

Simple JT

Just Appreciate the Pro Wrestling Storylines: DAMN! (Part I)

James Turner — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 03:24:26 -0500

I remember a few years back when WWE did the Kane and Katie Vick angle. I don't really remember the actual storyline to it because I was falling off of wrestling at this time and it really was a bad angle too.

I actually thought that the WWE could have made that angle really work. I was wrong. That storyline went sour. But I didn't knock them for giving it a try.

I remember when Ron Simmons first came out during John Cena's promo with King Booker and he first said "DAMN" then walked right into the back. That was a classic moment. I still laugh at that moment.

I remember when he did it for a second time that next week on Raw. I read articles on how dull it was getting already and people were going to be tired of it.

A few Wrestlemania appearances, WGTT hugging up on each other, Candice Michelle lovefest with herself and a Vince McMahon shaved head later, we have a classic Ron Simmons sitcom.

The point I'm trying to make is that not every wrestling angle will be the one to tune into. But we should at least give the storyline a chance to play its way out. Give it a chance to see what limits the storyline can go. Some storylines start out pretty bad but end up into classic rivalries and stories.

I'll use a more recent example for my argument. Let's take the JBL/HBK angle that's currently on Raw. I've read a few articles and many comments on those articles about how stupid this storyline really is.

Judge the storyline the way you want to but look at it like this. When these two come out into the ring together doesn't it make you wonder what's going to happen next with the storyline?

As predictable as WWE has been over the last six years or so, can you really predict how this angle is going to play out? I mean I knew he was going to lie down to JBL in that fatal four way the week before he got JBL intentionally disqualified.

I mean many of us may have knew that he was going to let JBL pin him in the match, but the way HBK played that angle out was Oscar-worthy.

The emotion he puts into his matches and reactions to JBL. The way he carried that tag match with him and Cena against Orton/Jericho and got the crowd really into it. HBK got me into the match because you didn't know what to expect with him.

That's what you call making something work. That's what you call a definite future Hall of Famer. Shawn Michaels made that Chris Jericho rivalry last year he had really go into effect.

Shawn Michaels makes you appreciate storylines. Some of the best storylines in wrestling history had to do something with Shawn Michaels. Iron man match with Bret Hart, Stone Cold/Mike Tyson angle, DX formation, rivalry with HHH and Chris Jericho. I mean we have to appreciate the storylines when you have guys like HBK.

Now I understand there are some angles that could have been put together a lot better. Brock Lesnar/Goldberg angle is a prime example. These two could have had a rivalry that went at least four months.

They both decide to hold onto their pride and leave the company at the same time right after their match they had together at Wrestlemania 2004. Although the match wasn't that great and the rivalry could have gone a long time, the buildup to the match was superb.

That buildup started all the way at Survivor Series where both Lesnar and Goldberg were the heavyweight champions of their brands. Then, Goldberg got in Lesnar's face after Lesnar beat Hardcore Holly at the Rumble.

Then, Lesnar cost Goldberg a chance to fight at Mania for the title by distracting him and getting Goldberg eliminated from the rumble. To top that off, Goldberg costs Lesnar the WWE Championship. So that is a great and proper buildup going into Wrestlemania.

Now we know that all storylines are not going to appreciate every single wrestling fan. I've noticed that with a lot of wrestling article writers, some of them tend to put down an angle or a decision made by a company, definitely WWE.

Just let WWE do it's job. It's okay to hear your opinion but why put down the company each and every week when you're going to watch it that very next week on Raw or Smackdown. It's like you're taking the joy out of professional wrestling and just finding things that are wrong with the current storyline.

Give yourself a chance to appreciate the storyline. If JBL beats Cena and becomes World Heavyweight Champion, that may suck for a lot of fans but imagine the shock value. Not many people expect Cena to lose to JBL.

Just let the guys do what they do best. Entertain us. Just appreciate pro wrestling's entertainment. I know I do and I have been a wrestling fan since late 80s and always kept watching it since then.

So I can appreciate a storyline whether its boring or not. Can you appreciate an article though? That is the question.

Simple JT

Give Norv Turner the Respect He Finally Deserves

James Turner — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 23:11:39 -0500

Like the close-up on the man, don't you? Go ahead and admit it. Not too many people like Norv Turner. Honestly, I don't even remember the last time someone spoke good of Norv Turner and his coaching skills.

I've always had a soft spot for Norv Turner since his days in Washington. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to see that I'm all for Jim Zorn now. But I was really warming up to Norv as I got older and really enjoy watching the Redskin play even if they were losing most of the games.

There was that one season, though. Back in the 1999-2000 season, the Redskins went 10-6 and also won their wild-card game against the Lions, where we busted their s**t. Then, we lost the divisional game to the Buccaneers after being up 13-0 and then losing that game 14-13. That game made me believe in Turner.

I was so ready for the 2000 season, where I knew we would a favorite to win the NFC East. We lost some stupid games that season, but we also won some really big games. We beat the Giants and Eagles, which is always a hard team to beat. We did get swept by Dallas.

The game that I felt solidify us as serious contenders for a Super Bowl run was the big win we had on Monday Night Football over the defending Super Bowl champion, St. Louis Rams. That game, Kurt Warner played out of his mind before he got injured; then Trent Green came in and had him a hell of a game.

Rams played their best that game but we brought it even harder to them. We outplayed the Rams, outcoached them and were just the better team that game. I was so confident about these Redskins. Don't forget we beat the Ravens that year, who also set the NFL record that same season with the least points allow in a single season. Don't forget they won the Super Bowl this same season, too. And we beat both of these teams convincingly.

That led us to a 7-4 record. We lose our next game against the defending AFC champions the Tennessee Titans. We looked bad that game. Nothing looked as worse as the next game when we got our a***s (sorry for the language just angry) handled to by the Dallas Cowboys.

That was the game where free-agent pick-up Deion Sanders got trashed on by his former team, the Cowboys. That very next night—which was perhaps the dumbest decision young owner, Daniel Snyder made—Norv Turner was fired as head coach with three games to go in the season.

We were 7-6 and still had time to turn the team around. I was the most angry 15-year-old at my high school. I was so furious. How do you fire a man that just took your franchise to the playoffs the year before for their first appearance since Gibbs retired the first time?

I gained a serious hatred for Daniel Snyder at that time. Norv Turner became a coordinator with the San Diego Chargers. That year, Doug Flutie, who was my favorite QB at the time headed there too and that was Tomlinson's first year.

I became a Chargers fan onsight. Ironically, Chargers first game was against the Redskins. I love my Skins but I was hoping for a Chargers thrashing of the Redskins and they got just that. 30-3 the Redskins got whipped. Enough with the history lesson.

Norv Turner became head coach of the Oakland Raiders after he left San Diego. He didn't do that great as a Raiders head coach. But what coach does a good job coaching the Raiders when you have a man like Al Davis as your owner.

Norv has a vision for those Raiders and he could have turned that team around. But selfish Al Davis like things to be his way, just like Mr. Snyder and he wants to bring the players he feels that fit the team instead of letting the head coach make big decisions. So Norv gets fired from the Raiders.

Now at this time, 2006 to be exact, I heard nothing but Norv Turner rants and negative comments about this man throughout my years knowing who Norv Turner was as a head coach.

From his days as the Redskins coach to the days as a Raider coach, Norv always had a vision. A vision that I kind of knew he had but couldn't get himself there to that level because he always had the higher powers making all the big decisions for him. They weren't giving him his chance to run a whole franchise.

Then, comes the San Diego Chargers. Man, I heard it all from friends & foes to sports analyst all over the media world. They thought the Chargers were out of their minds, firing Marty Schottenheimer after a 14-2 season to bring in a "disappointing excuse for a head coach" Norv Turner.

For some reason, I was not only happy that Norv got another shot, I actually believed he had what it took to lead the Chargers to success. I would know since the last coach of the Chargers was also a Redskins head coach right after Norv got fired. So I believe Norv had what it took to be successful.

His first season as a head coach of the Chargers started off really slow. He got the Chargers to a 5-5 start and people were already calling for his head because they lost more games already than they did the season before.

How did Turner respond? By leading the Chargers to six straight wins to finish off the season and even beating both the favored Titans and the huge favorable defending Super Bowl Champions, Indianapolis Colts.

He beats both of those teams and then almost pulled off an upset against an undefeated New England Patriots in the AFC Championship game.

That game he also lost L.T. in the first series of the game and a banged up Philip Rivers, who shouldn't have been playing to begin with. Yet, they only lose 21-12. Norv had that defense playing tough football, even got Tom Brady to throw three interceptions. So I consider the 2007 season a very overachieving season for him.

Then, comes the 2008 season, and Norv once again is being called for his head because his team gets the bad end of the bad calls. They fall to a 4-8 slump and people all over the country are asking the Chargers owner to do what Dan Snyder did to him eight years ago and fire him in the middle of the season.

LET THE MAN FINISH OUT THE SEASON BEFORE YOU CALL FOR HIS HEAD. THAT WAY YOU CAN SEE A MAN WORK HIS TURNER MAGIC AND TURN A TEAM AROUND.

And that's exactly what he did. He leads the Chargers to a four game winning streak to end the season with 52 points in a season finale against a team that stole a victory from them during Week Two.

Here comes the playoffs. Chargers-Colts. Colts the odds favorite to win. Your star running back goes down. Your best defensive player has been gone all season. So what do you do? Only pulled off a thrilling overtime victory in perhaps Norv Turner's best coaching game of his entire head coaching career. 23-17. LET'S GO CHARGERS!

Now all the talking has calm down for a bit. He has earn the respect out of a lot of the people - even if only for a good seven days—who have ridiculed him his entire head coaching career. And you think he would let everyone know how he really feels.

But he plays it cool and has his mind focus on Pittsburgh Steelers this Sunday. Even Mike Tomlin knows this is a serious game. He could very well lose to the head coach who has gotten the most trash thrown at him and talked about currently in the NFL.

Now, I've always had a soft spot for Norv Turner. Maybe its because we both have the same last name. Maybe its because I believe he could have led the Redskins to the promise land if they gave him a chance to finish what he started.

Whatever it is, I'm rooting for Norv Turner and these same San Diego Chargers for the rest of the playoffs. Even if they lose this Sunday, I'm still cheering them on.

ALL HAIL NORV TURNER! The most under-appreciated coach in NFL history. Yes, I said it and I meant it. I'm gone.

Simple JT

Colts-Chargers: Battle of the Potential AFC Super Bowl Contender

James Turner — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 06:26:19 -0500

Even though I've been a Washington Redskin fan my entire life, I've always been a football fan who liked great players from other teams. I've also had second and third favorite teams behind the Redskins.

I remember the 1995 AFC Championship Game between the Steelers and the Colts. I remember watching John Harbaugh in action and how everyone doubted the Colt to even make it this far into the postseason. The Colts were one hail mary away from reaching the Super Bowl as the receiver caught the ball in the end zone and as he hit the ground he couldn't maintain the ball.

That Super Bowl, Dallas beats Pittsburgh for their third Super Bowl in four years. BASTARDS! I remember declaring the Colts my second favorite team, all because of how hard they played, and John Harbaugh. Marshall Faulk was my favorite RB in the league at the time, too, so that also help sway my bandwagon that way.

Couple of years later, Peyton Manning arrives into the NFL. I knew he was going to be something special and it gave me more hope that the Colts will return to the Super Bowl. I'm not a bandwagon by all means, so when everyone started jumping onto the Colts bandwagon back in 2002, I jumped off the Colts' bandwagon and I headed over to Doug Flutie and those San Diego Chargers.

I was really a Doug Flutie fan at that time, and I loved LT's running style. I claimed him as my favorite RB after his rookie year, also around the same time my other favorite Marshall Faulk was on the verge of hanging them up.

I've been a Chargers fan all the way, 'til Brett Favre arrived to the Jets and as Favre being my favorite player, I migrated to the Jets. I was still cheering San Diego to do some damage this year, and if I had it my way, it would have been a Jets-Chargers AFC Championship game this year.

Things started to fall for the Chargers early in the year, especially after that game against the Broncos in Week Two, which we all who watch football remember what happen.

Chargers started to fall off and disappoint me and their loyal fans. Thing is they were losing so many close games and getting the bad end of the deal. As much as I figured their season was nearly over after the 4-8 start, I only thought about the last two seasons with these Chargers.

Two years ago, Marty led the Chargers to eight straight wins to end the season with a 14-2 record.

They lose to the Patriots though. Next season, Norv Turner—whom I will always have love for since I still think he could have gotten the Redskins deep into the playoffs if Snyder didn't fire him with three games left into the season—got the Chargers from a 5-5 start to end the season at 11-5 and making it to the championship game, which they lost to the Patriots.

It's ironic looking at it because the Chargers winning streak started after losing to the Colts after Manning threw six INTs and it ended after beating the Colts in the playoffs.

Now with the Colts, Peyton Manning kept falling short, year after year, as the Super Bowl favorite only to keep losing to teams like Patriots and Steelers in the playoffs. Everyone finally wrote them off back in 2006, where they were 12-4 but under the radar.

I knew this would be Colts year because people finally were calling Manning a choker and believing it and that they will never win a Super Bowl. I knew they would make it and win it. And when they did, I was actually happy for the Colts. But I was no longer a Colts fan anymore; I was a Chargers fan, so I didn't care much for the Colts winning.

Actually, that's a lie, I was really happy they won because if people didn't bandwagon them, I would probably still be a Colts fan. Now the Colts finished this season with nine straight wins after starting 3-4. That's amazing right there and Peyton Manning definitely deserves his third MVP this year, hands down.

Now, the two hottest teams are into the playoffs this Sunday and are going at it for the right to continue their winning streak into whatever team they may play. I'm so mad this is a wild-card game. Both teams deserve to be in the Championship game. I don't even know who to honestly cheer for in this game.

This is one of those times where I love to be a football player and a fan. I get to watch two teams that I love who are streaking right now put on perhaps a classic wild card game. Phillip Rivers VS Peyton Manning.

I want Chargers to win because of Norv Turner and everyone always putting him down thinking he can't do the job and because they work hard and play as a team. I also would love to the Colts to win because I just love to see Peyton Manning go to work. The way he plays can make any random football watcher become a true fan.

If it wasn't for the Cowboys, I feel the Colts can be America's team. They're just not that marketable as the Cowboys franchise, but still marketable.

All I know is I better not be scheduled to work this Saturday because I do not want to miss this game. My prediction, 27-24 Colts. Tough prediction, but I see Manning winning this one out. 'Til I write again.

Simple JT

Washington Redskins: NFC East Championship 2009 Blueprint & Rants

James Turner — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 19:29:55 -0500

LET'S GET IT! Man, its been awhile since I've last written an article on here, and I'm so motivated to speak on what's been going on. All I can say is this Fall 2008 has been a memorable one. Lots of life-defining moments and also life-defining football games were the top of my action, especially with the ladies. But enough about me. Let's get to the topic at hand.

I've read hundreds of Washington Redskins articles, watch a lot of Redskins Nation and SportsNite, listen to Fox Pregame with Jimmy Johnson, "Charismatic" Strahan, Howie Long, Curt Menefee, and my favorite broadcaster, Terry "Steelers King" Bradshaw, PTI, associates and friends from my college and my best friends, who are Cowboys, Giants and Eagles fans, and more importantly, my mother.

Despite all the negative comments I've heard about the Redskins I've come to understand that a lot of football fans who hate the Redskins literally hate the Redskins. I hear more people talk trash about the Redskins more than any other team in the league.

Maybe it's because I live in the D.C. Metropolitan area or something, but I hear the Redskin bashing all the time. The truth of the matter is that we're still one of the best teams in the league despite our 8-7 record.

We may not be in the playoffs but our defense is among the elite this year. It's been in the top 10 all season and went into the Eagles game ranked fifth. Now we're ranked fourth. Our offense may not have produced at the end, but our defense is ranked higher than some of the great teams that are in the playoffs. And we all know that offense scores points but defense wins games. And the Redskins showed a lot of defense this season despite being one of the smallest teams in the league.

When we put our emotions to it, we can tear down any team in the league. But the Redskins always seem to beat them damn selves. They have done this for over 15 years now, and they always seem to knock their own heads off. When we lose big games it's usually because of lack of execution or emotion on our end. We just have to turn this around next year.

But wait a minute...

There's always next year. And just for the record, I never once considered the idea of firing Jim Zorn this year. A lot of Redskins haters and even Redskins fans were calling for the team to cut on our young rookie head coach.

How dare you all? This goes out especially to the supposedly diehard Redskins fans. Real Redskins fans are always optimistic and that's how we take life. Being a Redskins fan makes you take pride in what you believe in.

We believe even when no one else believes in us. And Jim Zorn is the man who's going to take us there. And I said this back before the season started but here it goes. "Head Coach of the Washington Redskins, Jim Zorn, will bring home a Super Bowl back to the DMV district. And all praise will happen in D.C."

Again, I can give you reasons why we will at least reach the Super Bowl sometime during Jim Zorn's reign here in Washington. Like most coaches, Jim Zorn knows how to win football games. He just hasn't been consistent with his game-time coaching this season. This is his first year coaching on any level. QB coach doesn't really count.

Being an offensive or defensive coordinator is coaching. QB coach you just work with the QBs all practice. That's what Jim Zorn was for seven years in Seattle and some years in Detroit. He did call plays one game in Detroit but that is ancient history.

We have a lot of improvement we have to do this offseason. We all know this. Zorn is the man who will need to be the man to make big decisions this offseason. If the Redskins are going to succeed next year and get to the top of the NFC East at the least, Daniel Snyder and Vinny Cerrato will need to let Zorn run this offseason, especially with the draft picks, and let him turn this team around.

We don't really need to get rid of anyone. Clinton Portis should stay and he and Zorn will get along a lot more during the offseason. I can see them hanging out during the break. Build a friendship with your teammates is the way to building a serious trust amongst the organization. Zorn is a genuine man who would be the type of coach who brings a genuine joy to this team that it never really possesses consistently.

I mean Joe Gibbs is as genuine man as a coach can be, but he didn't connect with the fans physically. He did a great job at building the Redskins' character during his reigns in Washington, and he can bring the fight out of any player on any given day. He really reached out to the team spiritually.

And that's the only difference between Jim Zorn and Joe Gibbs. Zorn connects with the team physically and mentally at times. He's gotten the emotion out of them early in the year and lost their emotion for a couple of games but they regained it last Sunday against Philly. I can't say he connects with them spiritually like Gibbs, but he connects with them genuinely like Zorn-like.

If he can build on their rookies, Devin Thomas, Malcome Kelly, Big Fred Davis, Sensational Chris Horton and even Marcus Mason, who they should keep on the team next year, we can do some great things. They need to develop, and Zorn will get them there. Zorn will work on enhancing this offensive line. I don't think the defensive line needs too much change. They just need chemistry.

Jason Taylor was thrown in there last second and he's a game changing DE so they need to run that defensive line through him. London Fletcher can still lead the defense but Taylor should be able to be second in line and become leader of the defensive line. He can make adjustments when they are in formation. Taylor is a great leader and with him and London Fletcher can bring this defense as a top five, maybe even top three next year.

I personally would love to have the No. 1 defense in the NFL at the end of next season. So that's how the defense is only going to get better because Taylor and Carter will work great with each other after getting more acquainted with each other.

We don't need any more receivers. We need to put Santana Moss as the slot receiver and let Thomas and Kelly be the starting receivers next year. Jason Campbell needs two tall receivers for his tall frame so he can afford to throw some high balls and let those rookies make plays on them.

If that doesn't work, then Santana would be flying out of the slot—where he's always been most dangerous throughout his football career and not starting receiver—and burn any inside defender and safety. That leads to more deep plays to Santana from the slot. This will help make Campbell more calmer and help his vision better. That whole offense needs a change in the depth chart next year.

We can handle all that right there during the offseason. Then, we're going to have draft picks so maybe we can get a young DT or an athletic OT. We're good at cornerbacks. They need to build a chemistry, too. I say keep them all next year if you can. No need to change up that defense. Landry is the playmaker too along with Horton. Campbell is still the man we need at QB.

Personally, I would love to see Colt Brennan out there. But I like him at the No. 2 QB right now and just pick up whenever Campbell goes down and he will unleash the ball to those receivers. Campbell will still be maybe a two-TD passer a game. We're going to pass the ball more to. Set up the pass so it can open up the holes for Portis. Start the game more fast pace into the no huddle and get Campbell flowing early. We don't need a dominant offense but just enough to keep the defense rested and always into the games.

I'm betting anyone now that next year the Washington Redskins will be the odds-on favorite to get to the NFC Championship Game next season. We're going to be a much more focused, talented, and determined team. We want a ring.

Once the Washington Redskins themselves come to realization on how good they can really be, we will run the NFL next season. And not just for a half season either. We're going to be a tough team to beat every single game. The team has had their drama pass for now. We'll get through this offseason together just like one big dysfunctional family. That's all the Redskins Nation is. Very dysfunctional but loving just like any diehard sports fan.

Simple JT

Stephanie McMahon: Exact Answer For Raw!

James Turner — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 18:17:29 -0500

I've felt anxious to write an article for awhile now but needed to come with the right article. Not only the right article, but the right timing for me to write a good article on what I'm finding a definite answer to. The problems with the WWE Raw may finally taken an upside.

I'll just come out and say it now. Stephanie McMahon was exactly what Raw needed to make it into a major success. I can tell you that the ratings for next week's three-hour Slammy Award Special will be something to remember. This Raw is perfect timing because it gives Raw its own Pay Per View.

This is actually like Raw's first PPV in a very long time. Whoever is watching Raw right now who think they know their wrestling need to understand what's about to happen. Monday Night Raw is much watch TV again. I know that Panthers vs. Buccanneers is going to be a great game to watch, I can't see myself actually witnessing six main events on one episode of Raw.

Let's start with the mid card main events. Kofi Kingston vs. Rey Mysterio Jr. That's going to be a really good match, especially that both of these wrestlers are faces to the crowd. Although Mysterio receives huger pops from the audience than Kingston does. There aren't too many feeling Kofi Kingston just yet.

This will be a very good match because this is the first time Mysterio and Kingston will ever face each other. They both have contrasting styles and they're both fast pace and agile. I think Kingston is more agile than Mysterio personally. This match should start off Raw too. That would be nice match to open up Raw with. I see Mysterio pulling this one out.

We then have CM Punk vs. John Morrison, which will probably go for match of the night. Punk, former World Heavyweight champion, now tag team champ. An Intercontinetal Title run will make CM Punk a serious candidate for most improve wrestler in the WWE. I'm actually pulling for Punk in this match too.

He will beat John Morrison and go into the finals with Rey Mysterio. That will be a good PPV match and have the winner fight Regal that same night for the Intercontinetal Title.

Now we head into the three main events. Jeff Hardy vs. Chris Jericho. I don't know why I feel this will be the match of the night. Damn, I cannot miss this Raw man. I see Jericho pulling this one out. He has to keep that momentum going. The only way he loses this match is because of a Cena interference which may actually happen. I'm calling these matches as if they were all clean victories.

Batista vs. Triple H should be a bruising physical match. Another great match its going to be because they are two former World Heavyweight Champions who just lost their belts in the last month. So they're both still angry for those title loses and ready to take out anybody in their path. Now they're going to have to take out each other.

Then, how can we forget how they are Evolution members and still really good friends. HHH would like to win this one badly because he lost all three of his battles to Batista. Honestly, this the only match that may end in DQ. I see Orton interfering with Rhodes and Manu but HHH and Batista fight them off.

Now my favorite match of the night, World Heavyweight Champion, John Cena vs. WWE Champion, Edge. I'm going to enjoy this match because I love to see John Cena wrestle. Despite how much people hate on him, he puts on some really good matches. And I love his entrance. Have to give the man his respect.

Only thing about that is that I'm pulling for Edge in this match. Edge is still my current favorite wrestler in WWE. He knows how to seize the opportunity, gets great heat from the crowd, and he has two of my favorite songs. Both of those songs are Edge and Christian's theme when they were coming out of the crowd and his current one. I can play that song every morning and not get tired of it.

Anyways, enough with the kissing ass, I'm giving these two wrestlers their respect. Edge and John Cena deserved their props and their respect more than anyone in the WWE. That's just my personal opinion. Edge and Cena has had my respect since day one they both entered the WWE. I knew Edge would be on top sooner or later. And he's there so I'm proud of him. As for the match, let's go Edge.

Next week's Three-hour Slammy Award edition of Raw should be perhaps the greatest Raw of 2008. I'm calling it in advance. Then, the matches are all going to live to their standards. Who's going to win these matches? Who's going to go home with superstar of the year? My vote would be going to Edge just because I don't remember HBK name being mention as top wrestler.

Shawn Michaels would get my pick because he put on probably the most emotional match of all 2008 when he retired Ric Flair. That's a very good moment and memory we will never forget. All hail HBK! One of the ten greatest to have put on wrestling boots. Enough said. Let's get it in McMahons. Big ups to Stephanie too. I really feel like the role she is playing and her ideas are probably some of her own. Vince would let Stephanie of all people create some storylines for the company. Wouldn't he?

Batista vs Chris Jericho: What Will Happen on Cyber Sunday

James Turner — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:50:05 -0400

I'm not one to talk about certain matches as much as I would love to talk about a specific fued and a specific wrestler. But with a little offer from the staff, I figured I can make an exception right before I step out to Morgan's homecoming.

First all, I expect the match between Batista vs. Chris Jericho, for the World Heavyweight Title will be good, if not great. Four star match at best. What's going to make this match great is the X-factor, the special guest referee. Now with the three choices to pick from, you have Randy Orton, Shawn Michaels, and Stone Cold Steve Austin. This match is going to play out by the pick of the special guest referee.

With Randy Orton, I honestly see this being a no contest. Randy Orton doesn't care about either wrestler being champion. What will make him a good referee is the fact that he's in between a heel and face.

Technically, he will remain a heel. But the fact that he doesn't like either Y2J and Batista makes this pick well worth it. If he becomes a heel, I can honestly see him RKOing both competitors ending in a no contest. That would be pretty hilarious. I can also see him attacking both but Y2J gets the pinfall. Whatever happens, Jericho will remain champion.

If Shawn Michaels becomes a special guest referee, I can honestly see a Sweet Chin Music to the chin. To who? That remains to be answer. I honestly don't see the title changing hands with either referee but if it does it will definitely be with HBK as the special guest referee.

This will set up for one final match between Shawn Michaels and Chris Jericho. I see this match being a two out of three falls. That will probably be better than a ladder match, especially if it was a Three Stages of Hell match. I see Y2J winning that match.

Now if Stone Cold Steve Austin becomes the special guest referee, which I really see this happening, this will be a historic match just because of Austin's mere presence alone. I honestly see a Stone Cold Stunner or two on both competitors. I guess that's what I would love to see. Austin has been gone for awhile so him being a referee would be refreshing and it will make Jericho's chances even harder.

Jericho has been running his mouth about beating Austin and The Rock on the same night. I see Jericho still winning this match, maybe a possible DQ. Whatever happens in this match, I totally see Austin opening up a can of whoop ass on Y2J. Then, finish him with a classic Stone Cold Stunner.

This match between the two will be good. I said great earlier but that's at the best I see this match becoming. I'm just hoping that MVP switches over to Raw and win the World Heavyweight Title. That's another subject for another article on another day. As for me, it's time to get my party on. I'm out BR Chaing Gang.

Simple JT

R-Truth & Shelton Benjamin: The Future of Smackdown

James Turner — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 20:05:53 -0400

Ain't no stopping JT now! It's your boy, Simple JT coming back at you all again. I haven't written an article on BR in awhile but I do sign on everyday to read all the NFL and wrestling articles. See where other people's opinions are and like to learn how they write. I like some articles. Some are just simple that anyone can write.

Then, there are those very few articles that I have no choice but to comment on. Other than that, I love the fact that regular people like us can just voice our opinion.

Now I want to talk about the two biggest rising stars in the WWE. Both happen to be on the Smackdown brand. Shelton Benjamin and R-Truth. These two are about to take Smackdown to a whole another level. And they have evidence to back up their talents.

Let's start with Shelton Benjamin. "The best pure athlete in the WWE." You know you are a talented individual when the man known as Jim Ross consistently calls you the best athlete in the WWE week after week. That's high praise coming from JR. But I totally agree with him.

Benjamin is the best athlete in the WWE, in my opinion. And in a legit one-on-one matchup, I can only see a few wrestlers actually beating him. He puts on great matches, when giving the right amount of time to perform. He has a nice entrance and theme song.

Benjamin's mic skills have even improve tremendously. I'm thinking back when he was with Team Angle and WGTT. He wasn't that great on the mic. But I guess he has been working on his mic skills because he has what it takes to be a high main eventer. Only thing that's going to stop Shelton Benjamin from reaching to the top is himself...and HHH.

Even HHH willn not be able to stand in Benjamin's way if he keeps elevating himself. He's drawing good heat from the crowd and has potential to be the top heel on Smackdown, with the exception of Edge. Only Shelton and Vince himself know what Shelton's future holds.

Now let's get to R-Truth. Ever since his debut back in the last Smackdown in August, he has been a fan favorite. And no not just by 13-year-old kids like I've been hearing and reading others say. R-Truth is the truth. He is actually well over with the fans. Probably more than anyone could have expected, including Vince McMahon.

Then again, I think Vince knew what R-Truth could bring because he lets him do his own entrances and he gets to interact with the crowd which they always love. The thing about R-Truth is that he can actually wrestle too. He's not just an entertainer. He has put on some good matches since his return to the WWE. He's made Chavo and Bam Neely look good and who the hell is Bam Neely? Some whack bodyguard of Chavo Guerrero. But he put on a nice five to six minute match with him.

The fans be behind him during his entrance, during the match and after the match. He's so scary looking for most WWE fans but he's so friendly at the same time. He has a good nature about him. And once he gets in the ring it's strictly business. One thing Vince loves about wrestlers is how "over" they are with the fans. And if R-Truth can keep elevating his character, then he could hit that main event in no time. Maybe he can even become US champion.

I see a great rivalry between Shelton Benjamin and R-Truth. I think this is the perfect fued for these two because its going to give them chances to show why they are great athletes while putting on some good, maybe even great matches. I can see these two definitely putting on a good 15-minute bout.

This fued will elevate both stars because it would show that there are some newcomers stepping into the main event scene. Not to mention that they are both black wrestlers so that's really going to draw in some black viewers. Not only the black viewers, but it will help the predominantly white WWE viewers to appreciate and really respect black athletes. Booker T came a long ways and he has helped pave way for these two right here.

Honestly, if Shelton and R-Truth keep up with their potential, I could honestly see one of these two with the World Heavyweight Title someday. And I can see Vince McMahon shaking things up like he has and put the big strap on one of these two wrestlers someday. Shelton would probably be the first black WWE champion which would be great for wrestling. It would be a mind boggling, yet memorable moment in wrestling history. Will it happen that's up to these two athletes.

I'm not a big black or white guy when it comes to anything in life. Sports, politics, relationships, friends. I'm cool with any and everybody who shows me the respect that I give to them. But I would like to see a black WWE Champion someday. Not just because they are black but because there are some who are worthy of holding the big strap.

None of them are ready now, besides Booker T, but he's been multiple time champion. He has already solidify his status as perhaps the greatest black wrestler in history. Now it's time for new stars to step up and take the gold. Either that or give the title back to Edge. That's my wrestler right there.

What does the future hold for Shelton Benjamin and R-Truth? I tell you one thing, Vince McMahon and the whole creative team are doing a good job so far with these two leading into a big fued that could go all the way to the Royal Rumble. With Benjamin ending R-Truth's undefeated streak and R-Truth winning the US Championship from Benjamin.

They can really solidify themselves as major heavyweight contenders. And I'm rooting for them both. I'm still giving the edge to Shelton Benjamin. He's next in line for superstar status. Just don't mess this one up Shelton.

Let's see what the future holds for these two young stars. Simple JT signing off.

Let's Get It in Redskins: I BELIEVE IN JIM ZORN!

James Turner — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 09:33:23 -0400

It's finally here. The season has finally started. Well, in three hours the season has started. I've never anticipated an opening game like I do with this one. I waited 'til three hours before opening to write my first NFL article.

Now, to the topic at hand. I'm going to come straight out and say this. I can see Jim Zorn bringing a Super Bowl back to Washington. Maybe not this year...actually I'm sure not this year.

But give this man some time. Jim Zorn is a man who knows football. He has never been a head coach before, but he does have one thing that not too many coaches have: the trust and belief of all of his players.

Now, you may think that all players have to respect their coach and believe in them. That's not entirely true. Just look at what's been going on in Cincinnati with those Bengals.

Chad Johnson (a.k.a. Ocho Cinco) has been stirring the pot up there for a while. That organization has had more players with felony acts than any team in the last 10 years, possibly ever. Now, they may respect Marvin Lewis as a head coach, but that doesn't mean that they truly trust in his work.

If they did, they would have more respect than they do now, and Ocho Cinco would have shut his damn mouth.

Jim Zorn has the trust of not only his players and coaches, he also has the trust of the owner, Daniel Snyder. I actually give A LOT of credit to Daniel Snyder in making this decision.

There are a few reasons why I liked this decision.

For one, it shows Snyder's growth as the owner of the Redskins. When he first came into the NFL, he was all about the money and bringing in high-priced players. At first, I despised Snyder as the owner because I felt he was bringing this Redskins organization down.

But over the last four years, Snyder hasn't been the same arrogant, snobbish, money-spending man he once was. Now he's making smarter decisions with his money and his staffing.

He brought in Steve Spurrier and Marty Schottenheimer as head coaches, only to flop with them. He should have given Marty one more year. He did get us from an 0-5 start to a 8-8 finish. That's quite impressive for a guy who didn't have much to work with and went through four QBs that year.

Snyder, before those hirings, released Norv Turner with four games left in the season, and we still had a shot to make the playoffs. What kind of dumb move is that. Let the man who struggled for nine years as the head coach, and finally brought us to the postseason a year before—where we were one play away from the NFC Championship game—finish off the season. If he didn't get us there, then fire him.

Daniel Snyder was a rich owner who didn't know a damn thing about football.

Then, who comes in and brings some common sense to Snyder and the whole Redskins organization? None other than the greatest man to grace the Redskins' organization, Joe Gibbs. Whom I give the most credit to for the position the Redskins are in now.

He brought in this team and brought in his faith and wisdom of not only the game of football, but also in the game of life. With all that time Snyder and Gibbs spent together, you think some of Gibbs, if not all, didn't rub off on Daniel Snyder?

I mean, how can you explain this year's offseason? We did not make any serious moves in the free-agent pool or make any big trades—Jason Taylor did come late in the offseason—and stuck to the team we had. Then, we added to the roster. This is a postseason move that I haven't seen the Redskins do since the Super Bowl era.

How can you explain the hiring of Jim Zorn, an unproven head coach? And Snyder, out of ALL people, trusts this man who has no head-coaching experience and puts the whole organization in this young man's hands.

That is nothing but the work of Gibbs, who is still the Redskins' advisor. Snyder made the call, but Gibbs' effect on him can help Snyder understand more of why he made that decision.

All I'm saying is that Jim Zorn is going to take his bumps and bruises this season. As a diehard Redskins fan, I'm going to be the man to admit the truth. But the thing about Jim Zorn that I've noticed, which is something not many other coaches have, besides Dungy, McCarthy, and Belichick, is that vision.

Most coaches start off with serious visions of what they want. They try their best to get their team to their level of vision. Some coaches' visions aren't good enough. Most can do it, but they just don't have the right frame of mind or the right money to get there.

Then, there are those few like Dungy, Belichick, even Billick, who have the mindset and the EDGE—who is my favorite wrestler BTW—to get their team to the promised land and bring home a Super Bowl.

Jim Zorn has that edge. He's putting together an already-establish team, and he's working on what it takes to make them perfect. He's looking deep into each player, especially the QBs, and he's working on their weaknesses and showing them how to better themselves at their position.

He also is making everyone in the organization, as well as the diehard fans, believe that, with patience and time, he will bring us back a Super Bowl. And what makes Jim Zorn ahead of his time as a head coach is the fact that he's always willing to learn.

You see, in life, there's always room for growth, no matter what profession you're doing. I'm a stand-up comedian, actor, singer, and director. As good as I am, and as great as I will be seven years from now, I know that I'm going to get better, and I'm always willing to learn from the more experience ones.

That's what Zorn brings. He brings the willingness to listen and to learn. He keeps learning until he finally understands himself as a head coach and as a man. He's ready to take this next step.

All I have to say is that the NFC East is the hardest division in football. Put these four teams against any other division, and they are knocking every team out of the water. How else can you explain the last two years, where three teams out of the NFC East made the postseason.

That means only the winners of the other three divisions will get in while the others watch. Now, if Jim Zorn was to somehow finish first, or even second in his first season as a head coach, that will make a hell of a statement to the rest of the coaches and players in the NFL.

That statement will be....ALL HAIL TO THE REDSKINS!

Rest in peace No. 21, Sean Taylor. With you and LaRon Landry in the defensive backfield, no team in the league would have been able to consistently throw downfield. That would be like cheating in the NFL.

24-years old, with the potential to win a few defensive players of the year. You were growing as a player, a teammate, a man, and more importantly, a father. I miss you, as do many others. We know you're watching down on us. God Bless Mr. Taylor.

Simple JT signing off.

Edge Vs. The Undertaker: Feud of The Year

James Turner — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 08:31:54 -0400

Now there has been many feuds this year that had a lot of promise. HBK vs. Y2J; Kurt Angle vs. AJ Styles; even Tomko vs. Christian Cage (don't know why I loved their match on Impact months ago).

However, there is only one feud this whole year that has told a story better than any other, and that's The Undertaker vs. Edge.

I put this down as feud of the year for a few reasons. Edge and The Undertaker have been going at it since last summer, when Edge won the Money in the Bank case from Mr. Kennedy Monday night Raw, and then cashed it in after 'Taker went through a cage match with Batista and took a beat down from Mark Henry. 'Taker and Edge battled at the end of the year (along with Batista) for the title, which Edge won in a triple threat match.

They fought at Wrestlemania 24 and the Undertaker wins. They fought again at Backlash and Undertaker won again. Then, they take the rivalry to another level as Edge's La Familia have his back in his quest to regain the championship, which he did in a TLC match. Then, he retires the Undertaker. You can't ask for a bigger story than that. Retiring one of the greatest legends to EVER grace the wrestling ring.

There have been rivalries that were extreme just like this one. But now add in the fact that neither of these two have the World Heavyweight Championship, which was how the rivalry started, and it's been taken to another level because they're now fighting for more than a title. They're vying to put the other man through hell. Also, you can't ignore the fact that these two wrestlers have put on great matches each time they fought.

Now I say this rivalry is feud of the year because this has been the cream of the crop for Smackdown! most of this year. This rivalry has gotten interesting as it processes through. Then, this will be the fourth pay-per-view where these two have fought. Most rivalries may fight at a few PPVs in a year; two, or at the most three times that year. But this feud has come to a fourth match.

The rivalry wasn't continuous, either. Edge branched off to fight others, such as Batista and HHH. But it's a rivalry; if it's not over, then it's not over, and this feud is far from over. Any rivalry that goes through a year and still holds your interest to the point that the two have to put their careers on the line in perhaps the best match of this year (Hell In A Cell) is more than worth watching.

This could be the peak of the rivalry. They have battled it out. Each man has picked up victories and won the title off of each other dating back to last year. So this is why The Undertaker vs. Edge is my early pick for feud of the year.