Bleacher Report - Articles by J.A. Allen

Kirk Ferentz: 10 Early Bowl Season Gifts for Iowa

J.A. Allen — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:26:35 -0500

In 2009 Santa dropped in early and often to visit Hawkeye head coach Kirk Ferentz, leaving 10 pre-season bowl gifts under the nationally-ranked Hawkeye tree. As Ferentz eagerly opened each one, the gold-gilded invitation kept under lock and key offering a special trip to a warm climate, loomed larger and larger as bowl season moved closer and closer...

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Near Misses: Roger Federer vs. David Nalbandian at the 2005 Masters Cup Final

J.A. Allen — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 09:00:07 -0500

Roger Federer waged war with David Nalbandian throughout his junior and professional tennis career. The Argentine prided himself on being the first to have “Federer’s number.”

These were days before Rafael Nadal supplanted the underachieving Nalbandian as Federer’s chief antagonizer—preying on the mind of the Swiss Maestro.

The great Nalbandian not only possessed a keen tennis mind but was renowned as one of the cleanest ball-strikers in the game. He understood that hitting the ball flat with power deep in the corners in order to rob the Swiss of time could bring the great man down if you could sustain the pace and continue to hit the lines. It was not an easy task, but it could be done.

Nalbandian enjoyed defeating Federer—the No. 1 player in the world—more than any other player on tour. What is more, he had the game to do it.

They have met 18 times in their long and storied careers. Federer has captured 10 wins while Nalbandian's seized eight victories.

Some of Nalbandian’s victories hurt more than others. There was the defeat at the Australian Open in the round of 16 in 2003, 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 1-6, 6-3, that sent Federer hustling back to Basel. Also, at the 2003 Cincinnati Masters, Nalbandian won narrowly in straight sets, 7-6, 7-6. In 2003, Federer was struggling to attain that elusive No. 1 ranking.

But the greatest “near-miss” Federer suffered at the hands of his oft-nemesis Nalbandian came at the 2005 Tennis Masters Cup final in Shanghai.

Denying Federer this final crown also denied him more entries into the record book—for which John McEnroe will forever be grateful.

Federer, aiming at securing his third consecutive Masters Series championship crown, remained perfect in his Red Group round-robin matches. He defeated Ivan Ljubicic, Guillermo Coria, and Nalbandian—an alternate for Andy Roddick, who was injured and could not participate in the year-ending tournament.

Federer defeated Nalbandian, but both proceeded to the semifinals because Nalbandian was the runner-up in the Red Group. Federer met the runner-up in the Gold Group, Gaston Gaudio, and defeated him in straight sets with a double-bagel, 6-0, 6-0.

Meanwhile, Nalbandian met the winner of the Gold Group, Nikolay Davydenko, defeating him in straight sets, 6-0, 7-5.

That meant Federer would once again face Nalbandian, this time in the final for the championship.

It was not exactly the match Federer hoped for coming back from an ankle injury, feeling just a little rusty and unsettled. But he had defeated Nalbandian days before, so Federer told himself he could secure one more victory.

The Match

This was to be a five-set final, and Federer hoped for an early escape. From the beginning, however, Federer sensed they were playing an entirely different match than the one Nalbandian produced in their round-robin encounter.

Federer was broken in the first game and fought hard to take the opening set to a tiebreak. He managed to find two aces after the tiebreak deadlocked, plus a lucky net cord bounce. He won the opening set tiebreak, 7-4.

The second set was equally as intense and unrelenting, leading to another tiebreak, which Federer won 13-11, but only after Nalbandian received a bad call up 5-3 that allowed Federer to dig in and outlast the Argentine.

Had this been a three-set match, as it is today, it would have been over. Federer would have won in straight sets—two tough and grinding sets—but Federer would have been crowned champion and would have walked away with all the regal accolades of the ceremony.

But in 2005, Federer had to win one more set out of the final three.

Federer was exhausted by his effort so far, but the Argentine was not going away even after finding himself in arrears at 0-2. In fact, he blew Federer off the court with a 6-2 victory in the third set.

Nalbandian could sense that Federer was losing strength and resolve, moving slower to the ball, his backhand failed to find its mark. This renewed the Argentine’s belief that he could win this tournament.

After going down 1-2 in the fourth set, Federer called for the trainer—something that almost never happened during a Federer match. The Swiss complained about his left thigh, and even after treatment, continued to struggle, finally losing the set by a 6-1 margin.

It was on to the fifth and deciding set.

Immediately, Federer fell behind 0-4. Finally, he won a game. It was 1-4. Most telling, Federer wasted two break opportunities at 2-4.

It looked grim for the Swiss Maestro. Time was running out.

Regardless of his calm and cool exterior, Federer remained a fierce competitor. It was not in him to lay down and die here despite the pain in his thigh and the ache in his ankle. Federer had won his last 24 finals, and Nalbandian was not going to steal away another moment of Swiss glory.

Miraculously, Federer broke Nalbandian and began to find the mark again. The Swiss clawed his way back to 4-4 and then broke Nalbandian in the 11th game.

The Swiss served for the set at 6-5.

The record-breaking crowd at Qi Zhong Stadium stirred to fever pitch. Federer stood serving for the match, 30-0 on his serve. His dream to end it there, however, came crashing down, as Nalbandian blasted a winner past him, breaking back and sending the match into a fifth-set tiebreaker.

The tiebreak seemed to infuse the Argentine with determination as he fired all-out from the baseline with Federer straining to keep up. When the Swiss No. 1 netted a backhand, he found himself down three match points.

Nalbandian converted on the first one as Federer dumped another backhand into the net. It was Federer’s 72nd error during this long, frustrating match.

As Federer slumped, Nalbandian dropped onto his back on the floor of the stadium, exhausted after playing four hours and 33 minutes. He had won—6-7, 6-7, 6-2, 6-1, 7-6.

For Federer, the season was still fantastic.

Nalbandian may have ended Federer's 35-match winning streak and his bid to equal John McEnroe's 21-year-old mark of 82-3 for the best winning percentage in a season in the Open era at 96.5 percent, but that doesn't undo all the victories that came before the disheartening loss.

The defeat by the Argentine was only Federer’s fourth loss in 2005 against 81 wins.

True, Federer had been bidding to become the first man since Ivan Lendl (1985-1987) to lift three straight year-end tournament trophies.

Federer had lost only one other match in his career while leading two sets to love. That setback came against Lleyton Hewitt in the Davis Cup semis in Melbourne in 2003.

On Nov. 20, 2005, David Nalbandian came back from two sets down to steal this match away from Roger Federer, who held the match on his racket and let it slip away—making it “almost” Federer’s greatest near-miss.

[Please read the others in our series of Near-Misses starting with the installment prior to this one by Claudia Celestial Girl on Venus Williams at the 2008 Open].

Queens of the Court: Maria Bueno, A Latin Sliver of Fire and Ice

J.A. Allen — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 14:28:41 -0500

"You are ice and fire with a touch that burns my hands like snow."

—Amy Lowell

Maria Esther Andion Bueno rose to the top of women’s tennis in the '50s and '60s, employing her natural ability to carve a unique mark on the women’s game.

Bueno grew up during an era prior to the movement known as women’s liberation. Back then she was a novelty—a woman born with natural athletic gifts who lived to find and fulfill her destiny. Such a feat was rare in those days because even superlative women often remained wedged in their seats at the back of the bus.

Remarkably, Bueno won seven Grand Slam singles championships, three Wimbledons, and four U.S. Open titles, 11 doubles championships with six different partners, and one mixed doubles title with partner Bob Howe at the French Championships in 1960—all for a total of 19 Grand Slam crowns.

She was ranked in the top 10 in the world from 1958 through 1960 and then again from 1962 through 1968. She held the No. 1 ranking in 1959, 1960, and in 1964.

Bueno, born on Oct. 11, 1939, resided in Sau Paulo, Brazil. Her father and mother both loved and played tennis socially. The family lived modestly in comfortable middle class society in a home directly across the street from a tennis club facility.

Bueno naturally found the game very early in life and began playing without any formal coaching. Along with her older brother, the Brazilian adopted tennis as her calling. She and her sibling played constantly.

As a natural athlete, Bueno found success early and triumphed often because of her formidable talent and her staunch determination to succeed in the sport.

She became the first woman from South America to win at Wimbledon. Called a “Latin sliver of fire and ice,” in her second Wimbledon win over Sandra Reynolds by the Associated Press on July 3, 1960, Bueno imposed her presence on the tennis world and in the process engaged the media with her flair as well as her game.

Her style, grace, and easy movement won her accolades around the world as she stormed the European courts with her early serve and volley style of play. She rushed the net and hit with power and depth employing sharp angled volleys.

At the time, at 5’7”, Bueno was considered tall and thin, weighing in at 110 pounds. Her nickname was "The Brazilian Swallow" because she appeared to swoop in quickly to dominate at the net.

Enhancing her reputation as a player, Bueno was always stylishly dressed in the best and often frilliest tennis attire of the day. Once wearing a traditional white tennis dress with pink lining at Wimbledon, she had the crowd in consternation with the occasional flounce of pink as she mowed down her competition.

While other women’s matches were relegated to back courts, Bueno, always a crowd favorite, found her matches scheduled on the main courts with the stands packed. Even the male pros gave up enthralling card games to watch the young Brazilian play.

Bueno won her first tournament at age 12, and at the age of 14 she became Brazil’s women’s singles champion. Finally, in order to advance her game, she moved on to play and win at the Orange Bowl in 1957, staying on to play the Caribbean Circuit.

At the time Bueno was playing it was considered important to win in all categories—singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. The ability to play well and win in varied formats meant that you would always get an invitation to play at another tournament next week.

That meant food and lodging. Life on the road was not easy for the young Brazilian. Bueno suffered not only from lack of financial wherewithal but also from the separation from her family. She missed her brother the most.

In order to complete her rise to the top, in 1958 Bueno left for Europe to join the international circuit, where she won her first single’s title at the Italian Championships.

Bueno’s first Grand Slam title came at Wimbledon, where she teamed with the great Althea Gibson to win the women’s doubles championship in 1958. The press and the professionals were beginning to pay attention to this little Brazilian wonder.

Bueno won her first singles Grand Slam title at Wimbledon in 1959, defeating Darlene Hard. At the end of the summer Bueno also won the U.S. Championships and in the process earned the No. 1 ranking. The Associated Press accorded her the award for the 1959 Female Athlete of the Year.

Grass quickly became her favorite surface, suiting her attacking style of play. Bueno became the darling of Wimbledon. In all she won eight Wimbledon titles, three in singles in 1959, 1960, and 1964. She won five doubles titles in 1958, 1960, 1963, 1965, and 1966 with partners Althea Gibson, Darlene Hard (two), Billie Jean King, and Nancy Richey.

Bueno also won the U.S. Championships eight times during years when the tournament was played on grass. She captured the title four times in singles in 1959, 1963, 1964, and 1966 and four times in doubles in 1960, 1962, 1966, and 1968 with Darlene Hard (two), Nancy Richey and Margaret Court.

Bueno played in the finals of the French Open in 1964, losing to Margaret Court 5-7, 6-1, 6-2. The Brazilian also played in the finals of the Australian Open in 1965, losing again to Margaret Court, 5-7, 6-4, 5-2 (retired).

Her flamboyance, her commitment to training and her rigorous style of play led to many agonizing injuries for the young woman who bore them without complaint. Even though Bueno embraced her life and was outgoing and easy to approach, she remained private and reserved in her personal life.

She played her best tennis as an amateur, enduring poverty and injuries in pursuit of playing time and world prominence. By the time prize money began to be awarded, Bueno suffered with arm and leg injuries severe enough to keep her from competition after 1968.

She did come back in the seventies to play a few matches, even winning the Japan Open in 1974—to serve as her one professional title as contrasted to her 62 titles as an amateur.

Bueno was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1978.

This is another in a series of articles detailing the lives of women tennis pioneers who advanced the game and set standards for excellence in the sport. If you have not previously read others in the series—here is a list of the professional women tennis players we have explored:

Roger Federer: Unlucky No. 13 vs. Nikolay Davydenko Ends ATP WTF Run

J.A. Allen — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 14:36:29 -0500

There is something to be said for the underdog finally winning the prize, grabbing the brass ring, or walloping the big bully on the playground. We love those loser-makes-good stories. They make the rest of us who lose all the time feel good about our own paltry lives.

This is especially true if the “bully” is just that—a neanderthal who deserves his comeuppance! However, if the favored-to-win happens to be “your” hero—the star whose victories embellish your day and whose miraculous athletic feats sooth your battered ego—you may not be able to surrender to that “feel good” moment.

Such was the case today as world No. 1 Roger Federer caved to mounting pressure from the wily and crafty undersized Russian, Nikolay Davydenko in the semifinals of the ATP World Tour Finals Saturday. Definitely the underdog in this contest, Davydenko took down the mighty Swiss in three sets, 6-2, 4-6, 7-5, in a match that went right down to the final serve and Federer’s return into the net.

Federer, who’d beaten Davydenko in 12 straight encounters, had not even lost a set to the Russian since 2006. But Davydenko and Federer had not met since the Estoril Open on clay in 2008, when the Russian had retired due to injury. In the interim, Federer began his slow decline from the untouchable summits of 2004 to 2007.

Federer has not seen those heights consistently in two years. This was not the Federer of Davydenko’s memory—the man whose ground strokes sailed past him as if he were standing still and whose serves seemed unreachable.

Today the Russian met a man whose serves often failed to make their mark and whose ground strokes were frequently uncertain and mistimed. This was not the Federer of Davydenko’s worst nightmares.

Nervous in the first set, Davydenko settled into the match and broke the Federer serve two times in the first five games, taking a 4-1 advantage. Although Federer broke back to make it 4-2, Davydenko broke the Federer serve again to lead 5-2—ultimately closing out the first set at 6-2.

In the second set, Federer’s serve returned but his ground strokes and his return game were still misfiring, and Davydenko stayed even with the Swiss until it was 5-4 with Davydenko to serve to even the score at 5-5.

It was at this juncture that Federer broke the Russian’s serve and took the second set, 6-4. The match would be decided in the third and final set.

The players remained on serve at 5-5, when, inexplicably, Federer began to misfire on his own serve. Ultimately, the Russian broke, taking the lead at 6-5 with an opportunity to serve it out.

Davydenko held onto his nerves and took the set and ultimately the match.

The crowd was stunned. The commentators were stunned. Federer was stunned. It was an amazing performance from the Russian who waited seven years to finally score a victory over the amazing man from Switzerland.

You cannot love tennis and not applaud the tremendous effort and subsequent victory of Davydenko over the man he had never defeated in 12 tries. No. 13 proved to be very lucky indeed for the 28-year-old Russian pro. He deserved the win. He played almost flawless tennis after taking out Robin Soderling the day before.

With less rest and more pressure, the Russian played his best tennis of the tournament in the last two days. Depending upon his opponent tomorrow, you have to root for the Russian to win it all. If this is not his year, then it never will be.

Davydenko has defeated the No. 1, No. 2, and No. 3 players in the world on his way to the finals. The Russian deserves to win the ATP Tour Championship.

In the meantime, those of us who have been accused of worshiping too ardently at the throne of Federer must learn to live with imperfection. Federer has become human once again. We have to accept that he cannot and will not win everything from this point forward.

Nonetheless, let us not overlook the fact that Federer is still the No. 1 player in the world. Let us also not forget that of the top four players, only Federer advanced to the semifinals.

Rafael Nadal never factored into this tournament. Novak Djokovic played one solid, competitive match against Davydenko, winning in three tough sets. But the Serb faded at the end. Andy Murray lost out to Juan Martin del Potro by one game, after losing to Federer in three sets.

The four players at the top are no longer so distinctly separated from the next four. The top men are reaching parity. This enlivens the game and makes tournaments such as the one in London thrilling, exciting contests of survival where anyone can walk away a winner.

Federer fans will celebrate his fifth year-end No. 1 ranking and quietly mourn the death of his chance for winning his fifth ATP Year-End Championship Trophy.

There is much to be thankful for in 2009. Federer won his 15th Grand Slam title and also captured the elusive French Open crown, making him one of six players to have won a career Grand Slam.

2010 is yet to come with an exciting and explosive retinue of players ready to do battle once again for the privilege of gaining the next highest ranking above them, ultimately to succeed Federer at No. 1.

So as Davydenko celebrates his victory and readies himself for the final tomorrow against the winner between Soderling and del Potro in the other semifinal, the Federer fans left in his wake will wash the sand from their eyes and wait for 2010 to appear on the horizon.

Lively London Broil: 2009 Barclays ATP World Tour Finals

J.A. Allen — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 20:15:16 -0500

Moving the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals to London in 2009 was a brilliant stroke. The tournament now lives in the moment, relevant and scintillating.

What could be more fitting than to crown the world’s best in the land of tennis where Wimbledon stands as a shrine and anointing a homegrown champion remains a national obsession?

Shanghai, on the other hand, seemed strangely remote and foreign because of the time difference and the sparse attendance by crowds who did not fully appreciate the tennis they witnessed. Tennis match results bore the stamp of yesterday’s news—like trying to emulate Boy George in Pigeon English—a little bizarre and unreal.

This year the draws created a multitude of potential scenarios depending on who won and by how much. Apparently, there is so much parity in the top eight that all matches won and lost expanded new possibilities.

Engaged in Group A were: Roger Federer (1), Andy Murray (4), Juan Martin del Potro (5), and Fernando Verdasco (7). Competing in Group B were: Rafael Nadal (2), Novak Djokovic (3), Nikolay Davydenko (6), and Robin Soderling (8).

So what have we witnessed that surprised us?

Group A

Fernando Verdasco (7)

To be perfectly honest, we expected Verdasco to be eliminated. But he was competitive in each and every match, taking Roger Federer, Juan Martin del Potro, and Andy Murray to three sets before losing in the end. It was Verdasco’s play against his three competitors that created the confusing conclusion to determine which players advanced to the semis from Group A.

Andrew Murray (4)

With the ATP World Tour Finals in London, very much a Murray “hometown” setting, there was much hope for the Scotsman to advance and win this championship.

He started out well by defeating the No. 5 seed, del Potro, in three sets, 6-3, 3-6, 6-2. It was a great opening salvo. However, he did not fare so well against the No. 1 seed in Federer.

Murray went down to defeat, 3-6, 6-3, 6-1, much to the dismay of his legion of fans in London. That meant, of course, he needed to defeat Verdasco, preferably in straight sets.

He did defeat the Spaniard, but with not enough of a margin to win a spot in the semis. Murray came up one game short of advancing to play on Saturday.

Juan Martin Del Potro (5)

Del Potro lost his opening match to Murray in an epic struggle, 6-3, 3-6, 6-2. The Argentine had lost five of his last six matches to the Scot.

Del Potro was so upset by his loss that he could not come out of his room even to join his coach for dinner. Del Potro struggled to overcome Verdasco and finally did, 6-4, 3-6, 7-6. Then, he once again rose to the occasion in his final match to defeat Federer—just as he did at the U.S. Open.

In three sets the lanky Argentine gave the Swiss his first loss, 6-2, 6-7, 6-3. Because he won one more game than Murray, Del Potro went through to the semis.

Roger Federer (1)

We are never quite sure how Federer will play these days, though, as the No. 1-ranked player in the world, he seems to land on his feet and maintain his edge, always doing just enough to stay ahead of the pack.

When the Swiss lost his opening set to Verdasco in his first match, we expected a long night. It was, but Federer prevailed and did the same against Murray—starting slow and finishing strong. Federer could not, however, come back against del Potro, losing his final match in three sets.

Still, the Swiss hung on just long enough to secure a place in the semis.

Semifinalists

Winner Group A: Federer

Runner-up Group A: Del Potro

Group B

Rafael Nadal (2)

Nadal did not win a match—in fact, he did not win a set in his group. That must be the greatest surprise of the tournament.

Granted, Nadal has been injured most of the last half of 2009. It would be inappropriate to draw any grand conclusions from the Spaniard's poor showing in London.

Still, with Nadal’s fighting spirit and his never-say-die attitude, we would have expected at least a set or two along the way. He lost to Robin Soderling, Nikolay Davydenko, and finally to Novak Djokovic in straight sets. It must be said that he appeared to be a shadow of his former self on the bright blue courts in London.

Novak Djokovic (3)

Djokovic struggled in his opener but came back to defeat Davydenko, 3-6, 6-4, 7-5. He was not so fortunate against Soderling, losing in straight sets to the red hot Swede, 7-6, 6-1.

It was as if the Serb threw in the towel after losing the tie break. As Djokovic was doing his Marlene Dietrich impression of being “so tired,” Soderling seemed to say, “all the better,” as he is now on his way to the semis.

Djokovic had to wait for the late match to determine his fate, after defeating Nadal in straight sets in the early match. Now he will have plenty of time to rest, because he was eliminated from contention with Davydenko’s win over Soderling.

Nikolay Davydenko (6)

The Russian started well, winning the first set in his opener with Djokovic, but he lost a fiercely contested three-set match to the Serb. Davydenko then defeated Nadal in straight sets, as did everyone in Group B.

The match of this tournament, to determine whether the Russian would advance into the semis, took place as Davydenko met Soderling in the last match of group play.

Davydenko won the opening set in a tense tie break, but Soderling came back to take the second set breaking Davydenko at love—then serving out the set to 6-4. The Russian returned the favor in the third set and Davydenko won the match, sending him into the semifinals.

Robin Soderling (8)

The hard-serving Swede made it into the championship tournament in the first place because Andy Roddick withdrew with an injury.

Soderling owes Roddick big time for this opportunity to play on a surface that showcases his many talents. He started things out by defeating Nadal in straight sets, then followed up that feat by defeating Djokovic in straight sets, as well.

In his final match, however, he could not surpass the wily Davydenko. Soderling lost his final group match, 7-6, 4-6, 6-3, to the Russian.

Semifinalists

Winner Group B: Soderling

Runner Up Group B: Davydenko

Saturday’s Semifinals Matchups

Roger Federer vs. Nikolay Davydenko

Robin Soderling vs. Juan Martin del Potro

Federer has defeated Davydenko 12 times, never losing to the Russian. The last time they met was on clay in 2008, during the finals at Estoril. Davydenko retired due to injury. It would seem that Federer has the Russian’s number.

Del Potro has defeated Soderling the last two times they met—both times on hardcourts in 2009 at Auckland in New Zealand, 6-4, 6-3. He won again in Washington, D.C., with a walkover. They did meet once earlier in 2007 during Davis Cup play, Soderling taking a 7-6, 7-6, 6-4 victory on indoor carpet.

It has been a tremendous tournament to watch so far with doubles and singles play. The stands are filled and the play has been close and intense. It promises to be thrilling all the way to the finals.

Barclays ATP World Tour Finals Rankings: Gentlemen, Start Your Engines

J.A. Allen — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 12:24:45 -0500

Pre-Barclays Power Rankings

As the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals begin on Sunday in London, it is prudent to assess the top eight players' power rankings heading into the tournament.

It might have livened up the conversation had the groups been given some memorable tags like “black and blue,” “over and under,” “sound and fury,” or even “tea and crumpets.” The potential list is endless. The point is “A” and “B” are unimaginative and quite boring—which is what this tournament promises not to be.

The Top 10

1. Novak Djokovic (798 points) B-Group

(Last Power Ranking: 1; ATP Ranking: 3)

Last Four Tournaments: Paris Masters [Winner], Basel [Winner], Shanghai Masters [SF], Beijing [Winner]

Once again Djokovic has awakened to find himself transformed into a media darling with superlatives raining down from on high describing his simply fabulous play of late.

That must give the Serb a surge of confidence as he takes the court, especially after winning his first Masters shield at the Paribas Masters in Paris. In the last month he has managed to beat everyone on his way to London, winning 18 of his last 19 matches.

His only loss has come to Nikolay Davydenko at the China Open. Wouldn’t you know that is who the Serb is going to open against on Monday. Life is ironic that way. Last year Djokovic and Davydenko played in the finals of this same year-end championship in Shanghai with the Serb taking home the trophy.

Although everyone is pasting Djokovic’s name in the win column, it is not going to be easy to beat the wily Russian, especially while hoisting a mountain-load of expectation at the same time.

Outlook for London: Djokovic has no picnic outing here. He must meet Davydenko, a player with whom he has split four matches. Then he must meet Rafael Nadal, who has a 14-6 edge in their head to head. Finally he must overcome Robin Soderling, against whom he has a perfect 5-0 record—but he has not met Soderling lately, and the Swede is dangerous. Just ask Nadal.

2. Rafael Nadal (371 points) B-Group

(Last Power Ranking: 3; ATP Ranking: 2)

Last Four Tournaments: Paris Masters [SF], Shanghai Masters [Final], Beijing [SF], US Open [SF]

Nadal resumed the path to recovery after spending half of 2009 injured. His defeat at the French Open by Soderling marked the beginning of a long descent into pain and absence.

Nadal could not even defend his Wimbledon Crown. Still, he has begun the long journey back. If we have learned anything watching the talented Spaniard claw his way to the top—it is never count Nadal out. He is rested but rusty. So are many entering this tournament.

Perhaps Nadal is saving his best for last. One thing's for sure about the world No. 2—he will go down swinging.

Outlook for London: Nadal has not returned to form completely enough to win this championship. He lacks match play, affecting his timing. No doubt the talent is still there, as is the desire. Hardcourts, especially indoor, have never been his forte. He lost the last time he played each man in his round robin. Nadal, however, will make them work for it, and he will get his licks in during his matches.

3. Roger Federer (286 points) A-Group

(Last Power Ranking: 8; ATP Ranking: 1)

Last Four Tournaments: Paris Masters [R32], Basel [Final], US Open [Final], Cincinnati [Winner]

Seemingly always the focal point of every tournament he enters, toting his legion of fans, Federer appears to be favored by many to win the whole tournament—based on past performances. Even so, there are those who insist he is in decline, not at his peak, seen better days, off his feed, and so on.

Federer himself will not know his condition or his state of mind until he hits the hard courts in London. His draw, although seemingly filled with dreaded opponents, must have seemed a relief to Federer because these are the cream of the crop and he has feasted on them all in the past. He knows how to beat them at their best—he just needs to summon his “A” game to do it.

Federer, favored to win his opener, is 3-0 against Fernando Verdasco. Ultimately he wants that year-end No. 1 ranking and his fifth Masters Tour Championship. He has won it four years, the last two in 2006-2007. Last year he lost in the semis to Andy Murray.

Outlook for London: Federer never enters any tournament expecting to lose or just hoping he does well. He expects to win and the Swiss will do his utmost to fulfill that promise. He should get by Verdasco and Juan Martin del Potro. His true test will come against Murray. As usual. Murray loves nothing more than defeating Federer. He did so last year before running out of gas.

4. Juan Martin del Potro (273 points) A-Group

(Last Power Ranking: 6; ATP Ranking: 5)

Last Four Tournaments: Paris Masters [QF], Shanghai Masters [R32], Tokyo [R32], US Open [Winner]

Del Potro has not managed to produce his top form since this summer's U.S. Open. That win took everything he had to give and more. Unfortunately, the Argentine has not recovered his game since then.

Injuries continue to plague his ability to endure even three-set contests of late. He faces Murray first on Sunday. Del Potro with his recent abdomen strain is an unknown quantity in this tournament. Will he be forced to retire again? He and Murray have met five times with Murray winning four. Look for Murray to repeat and win here.

Outlook for London: It seems highly unlikely that del Potro has enough left to survive the round robin format required in this tournament. Too much tennis in too little time for the big man.

5. Nikolay Davydenko (272 points) B-Group

(Last Power Ranking: 7; ATP Ranking: 7)

Last Four Tournaments: Paris Masters [R16], Valencia [SF], Moscow [R32], Shanghai Masters [Winner]

This part of the year for Davydenko is prime time. He loves the fast indoor courts and has been playing extremely well of late. Last year he met Djokovic in the finals of the year-end Masters and lost. In their most recent matchup in Shanghai, Davydenko won.

They are even through four matches. Although most predict that Djokovic will win this match, it is not an easy match for either player to enter feeling entirely confident. The Russian, however, is in good shape and has plenty of match play to bolster his confidence.

Outlook for London: Davydenko is fast on his feet and he can exert real power, hitting angles and lines. So can Djokovic. The Serb’s improving serve and his growing confidence make this a tough matchup for the Russian out of the gates.

6. Andy Murray (254 points) A-Group

(Last Power Ranking: 5; ATP Ranking: 4)

Last Four Tournaments: Paris Masters [R16], Valencia [Winner], US Open [R16], Cincinnati Masters [SF]

At this point there are more questions than answers regarding the wily Scot, who suffered from a wrist injury through most of the indoor season. True, he did come back and win Valencia after his long layoff, but he faded quickly in Paris and seemed to exude slow-footedness and deficit reaction time.

Murray just could not quite get there in time to hit a great return. Whether the weeklong layoff has been sufficient to quell all his aches and pains and restart his engine, we will know shortly. Murray once more will shoulder an enormous load of expectation as the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals are being held in London. While the Scot never sufficiently handled it at Wimbledon, maybe the indoor site will prove a more congenial setting.

Outlook for London: Regardless of its fairness, people are growing weary of waiting for the Scot to break through and win a major. Capturing the ATP Masters Tour Championship would go a long way toward silencing the clamor. This must be uppermost in Murray’s mind as he meets del Potro on Sunday. Good incentive to put the Argentine away.

7. Robin Soderling (164 points) B-Group

(Last Power Ranking: 10; ATP Ranking: 9)

Last Four Tournaments: Paris Masters [QF], Stockholm [SF], Shanghai Masters [QF], Beijing [SF]

With Andy Roddick's withdrawal from the event because of injury, Soderling becomes the first Swede to participate in the ATP World Tour Finals since Thomas Johansson did in 2002.

The hard-serving Soderling with the rocket forehand was the man to deny Nadal another triumph in Stade Roland Garros. They meet for the first time since that match on Monday in London. It will be viewed with much interest. Soderling has proven himself worthy, climbing to the No. 9 ranking in the ATP.

Outlook for London: No one will be happy to meet the Swede. Indoors is where Soderling shines because there are no aberrant winds or unpleasant weather to make conditions difficult. Assuming he is fully healthy, the defiant Swede will, no doubt, create havoc on his side of the draw.

8. Fernando Verdasco (120 points) A-Group

(Last Power Ranking: NR; ATP Ranking: 8)

Last Four Tournaments: Paris Masters [R3], Valencia [Semifinals], Shanghai Masters [R1], China Open [Quarterfinalist].

Verdasco’s run at the Australian Open cemented him at the top of the men’s game in 2009. Now the Spaniard is apparently another of the walking wounded whose numbers have swelled the past few months.

An abdomen tear slowed him down, and he has had a difficult indoor season. Questions remain about his fitness after playing at half-strength throughout the fall. In his first match at the season-ending tournament, he meets world No. 1 Roger Federer. He has never defeated the Swiss—in fact, never taken a set from him—in their three meetings.

Outlook for London: It would appear almost hopeless for Verdasco, especially if he continues to be constrained by his lingering injury. But nothing ever is in the game of tennis. That is why we play the games.

The Alternate

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (116 points)

(Last Power Ranking: NR; ATP Ranking: 10)

With as many wounded as their appear to be, Tsonga may very well see action at some point in this tournament. The Frenchman has worked and trained hard to improve his game and make his way into the ATP top 10. He will be eagerly awaiting his chance.

Novak Djokovic: Life in the Passing Lane

J.A. Allen — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:14:08 -0500

2007

Remember two years ago at the U.S. Open? Remember how happy Novak Djokovic was and how happy he made the New York crowds with his impersonations of Maria Sharapova, Andy Roddick, Roger Federer, and even Rafael Nadal?

While the guys growled, seemingly a little scratchy about his antics, Sharapova loved it and even sat in the Serb's box with his parents! Life was good then, Nole. Wasn’t it?

Djokovic made it all the way to the finals of the 2007 U.S. Open, where he faced Federer down. The Serb lost, of course. Nerves. Actually, he lost in straight sets to Federer, but the match was closer than it looked on paper. That’s what everybody said, anyway.

After mixed reviews, Nole faded fast in the 2007 fall indoor season—tired no doubt from all that instant fame and the rocket ride to the top of the men’s game at age 20. He could barely hold up a racket during the 2007 Masters Season-Ending Championship in Shanghai. Noticeably, he didn’t win a rubber.

Extreme fatigue.

2008

By the Australian Open in 2008, Nole was ready to roll again. He did that by powering his way through to the final. In the process, he defeated his former foe, Federer. This time, Djokovic won in straight sets and sent the shocked Fed man home without a trophy. This took place in the semifinals, as Jo-Willy Tsonga was doing something similar to Nadal.

The culmination of this epic victory will forever be marked by the utterance of Nole’s sweet old mom, who cried out, “The king is dead!” This, of course, referenced the newly deposed Roger Federer. Such remarks endeared her forever to the legion of Federer fans.

In the final, the Serb swept Tsonga aside, the Frenchman overcome by the occasion. Djokovic had won his first Grand Slam tournament, and, according to the pundits, there would be many more trophies gathering dust on his mantle before his career was over.

The 2008 Australian Open marked the beginning. The following months seemed to punctuate the Serb's early success. Djokovic won Master’s Series Tournaments in Indian Wells on hardcourts followed by another victory in Rome on clay.

He closed in on Nadal, constantly nipping at his heels, but Djokovic could never surpass the No. 2 player, even though many speculated that soon Nadal would fade away. That is ironic when you think about what really happened.

Because after Rome, Djokovic began to fade. The Serb mysteriously quit in a match with Federer in Monte Carlo. This occurred after Federer apparently shushed Nole’s parents during the match.

Djokovic's reputation began to unravel. He was criticized for his rush to retirements when he was losing.

The Serb made it to the semis of Roland Garros but was dismissed early at Wimbledon by Safin. His early defeat registered as a real shocker, especially after much musing about how important Djokovic was to the "triumvirate" at the top of the men’s game.

Djokovic met Federer again—this time in the semifinals of the 2008 U.S. Open. He lost in four sets, 6-3, 5-7, 7-5, 6-2. During the match, Djokovic seemed a bit shell-shocked and timid. At the conclusion of this match, there were no comments by Nole’s mom.

In fact, this time, Djokovic did his own damage by berating the New York crowd for supporting Roddick, who had poked fun at the list of all of Nole’s supposed ailments prior to their quarterfinal match. The New Yorkers did not take well to his scolding and booed him.

If you look at the year between the 2007 U.S. Open and the 2008 U.S. Open, Djokovic dipped. His confidence seemed to drop off the chart.

He was still ranked No. 3, but his prospects did not appear quite as rosy as they did in 2007. Andy Murray subsequently forced himself into the group as a member of the top four. The Scot was closing in fast on the No. 3 spot.

Even after winning the year-end championships in 2008, Djokovic was pretty much the forgotten man at the start of 2009.

2009

In January, at the Medibank International in Sydney, all the Serb had to do was defeat Jarkko Nieminen in the semifinals and he would have been the No. 2 ranked tennis player in the world. But he lost, letting Federer off the hook. Another golden opportunity wasted.

As defending champion at the Australian Open, Djokovic had to retire in the quarterfinals against Roddick—the man who had speared him with his comments in New York. At this point, the criticism for his actions came from on high, as even Federer noted that Djokovic had retired in three of four grand slam tournaments.

For the rest of the year at Masters Events, Djokovic became the best man—coming in second—to Andy Murray in Miami, to Rafael Nadal in Monte Carlo and in Rome. After Rome he dropped to the No. 4 ranking while Nadal retained his grip on the No. 1 spot for the time being.

In Madrid, Djokovic again lost to Nadal in the finals. At Roland Garros, Djokovic was beaten in the third round by Philipp Kohlschreiber and at Wimbledon in the quarterfinals by a red-hot Tommy Haas.

At the Cincinnati Masters, Djokovic made it to the finals before losing to Federer, coming in second best as was the Serb's custom. Then, once again, Federer took Djokovic out during the U.S. Open semifinals.

When the season headed indoors for the remainder of 2009, Djokovic began to make his move on the field. He won the China Open and once again reigned as the No. 3 ranked player in the world, knocking Murray back down.

At the Shanghai Masters, he lost in the semifinals to eventual champion Nikolay Davydenko but then went on to steal away Federer's home tournament in Basel, defeating the Swiss in the final.

To capitalize on his improving status, Djokovic captured the final Masters tournament of the year, BNP Masters in Paris, defeating Frenchman Gael Monfils in the final.

There is much speculation as to the outcome at this year's Barclay's ATP World Tour Finals in London. Can Nadal overtake Federer for the No. 1 spot with only 945 points separating them? Can Djokovic supplant Nadal with a 1295-point spread between them? An undefeated champion picks up 1,500 points. The possibilities loom large.

Subtle traces of maturity have surfaced as the good-humored demeanor returned to the very talented Serb's repertoire. The world still awaits the promise the 20-year-old exhibited in 2007.

The fun-loving, carefree guy didn’t handle his instant fame well. He took his personal life with him onto the court. When potential continues to override commitment, hard work is set aside. You can never rise to the top on talent alone. Now Djokovic seems at long last to have figured out his priorities.

Djokovic has natural talent to burn. He moves better and serves better than most at the top of the game. At last these tools are going to take him out of being third best, but the question remains—who will surge ahead in London and who will get passed standing in line?

Zultan's Fearless Big Ten Plus Football Predictions: Week 12

J.A. Allen — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 19:53:48 -0500

Don’t be sad. It had to happen.

Zultan faces the inevitable end of the season. Soon you will not have the all-seeing one to kick around anymore to paraphrase the often hilarious Richard Nixon! This is Zultan’s last regular fearless prediction column of 2009. Hibernation mercifully awaits.

Last week, the seer went six of 10, missing wins by Northwestern at Illinois, Michigan State at Purdue, Ohio State over Iowa (sigh), and Stanford’s annihilation of USC—whoa! Year to date, Zultan clings to a 72 percent win percentage[73 of 101].

This is your last chance to enter the drawing for a $50 Best Buy Gift card by clicking here to enter your own predictions. If you outguess the mighty Zultan, your name will be placed in the drawing along with all those who have surpassed Zultan on the season.

The winner will be announced on Nov. 24 in a special feature on the web site Sports Now and Then, the sponsors of this contest.

Zultan may consider forecasting bowl winners if the hue and outcry for his return is great enough. You may let me know in your own inimitable style.

In the meantime, there are upcoming games to predict with much still at stake in the Big Ten and the rest of college football.

(1) No. 10 Ohio State at Michigan

This contest was once the climax of the Big Ten season between the two top dogs in the conference with the winner going to the Rose Bowl, often to be shellacked by the Pac-10 representative. Ohio State and Michigan were known as the “Big Two” and this was “The Game.” In 2000, ESPN ranked it as the top North American sports rivalry. Ah, how the mighty have fallen.

This year it is a study in contrast—the top and the bottom, the beginning and the end. It is the beginning of another BCS Bowl bid for the Buckeyes and the end of another dismal season for the once mighty Wolverines.

Makes you feel like “Taps” at the start of the game is the only appropriate “marching” song. Zultan says Ohio State wins this one on the road.

(2) Minnesota at No. 13 Iowa

This traditional end of the season game between Iowa and Minnesota determines who will hoist the prized bronze pig. That in itself is no easy matter. The true story of the “Floyd of Rosedale ” trophy would indeed make a heart-wrenching musical comedy. Remind Zultan to tell it to you someday.

Both Iowa and Minnesota are bowl eligible this year; but Iowa must make a statement in this game to get the bowl selection committees to pay attention to their stellar season. Iowa has many big wins, but they have not been rewarded in the polls. Zultan picks Iowa to win this game in Kinnick Stadium and to retain the bronze pig for another year.

(3) No. 16 Wisconsin at Northwestern

This last weekend of action is replete with Big Ten showdowns on the road. The contest between Wisconsin and Northwestern is the first one up. Granted both teams are already bowl eligible, but now is the time to ratchet up the substance meter and add to the “wow” factor. It is imperative to make the bowls pay attention and beg you to play in their stadium.

A win by Northwestern could move them up the line toward a date on New Year’s day. You can bet that a loss by Wisconsin would send the Badgers further down into the obscurity pit. Wisconsin has been steady in the pocket all season. Zultan counts on the Badgers to continue by winning this one on the road.

(4) Purdue at Indiana

Neither of these teams have anything to play for but pride and an “Old Oaken Bucket.” Their seasons are marked with outstanding play in bursts, but an inability to play consistently from beginning to end. Success, as we know, is attained in the details. In the trenches fighting for inches.

Purdue has defeated Ohio State and Michigan in one year. Purdue is the only Big Ten team that has managed to defeat the mighty Buckeyes. Indiana has come close, but has only defeated one Big Ten foe in 2009, Illinois. This one is pretty much a toss up according to odds-makers, but based on Purdue's success, Zultan must give the nod to Purdue to win this one and come within a whisper of having a winning season.

(5) No. 14 Penn State at Michigan State

Penn State must win this game in East Lansing against the Michigan State Spartans. Otherwise, their bowl aura will be tarnished with a 9- 3 record, instead of 10- 2. One suggests an “OK” season, while the other promises delivery of top-notch gridiron feats.

Michigan State, on the other hand, will be hard-pressed to sell out stadiums with a record of 6-6. They could very well entice a few more spectators with a 7-5 season and a winning conference record.

This year, the Spartan defense has often let them down. On the other hand, the Penn State offense failed to jell when pressed by good defenses such as those of Ohio State and Iowa. Zultan feels that Penn State should prevail in another one of the problematic road games this coming weekend.

(6) No. 25 Cal at No. 17 Stanford

What idiot would bet against Stanford at home? Certainly not Zultan. Not after the humiliation of last week when the Cardinal beat down USC by a score of 55-21. Somebody must have laced the Cardinal's cinnamon oatmeal with Muscle Milk, as the Stanford squad made sure the USC body was not moving before they left the field of play.

I wonder if there was some sort of special incentive, beyond the normal one of winning at all costs that caused such an explosion of scoring. Expect Jim Harbaugh to become the next hot coaching commodity.

This week, Tiger Woods has been named honorary captain for the game against the No. 25 ranked Cal Bears. Expect Stanford to prevail and wait for their bowl invitations to come flooding in.

(7) No. 11 Oregon at Arizona

This is another tough road contest to call. Oregon can feel the hot breath of Stanford on their necks, because if they lose on Saturday to Arizona, or the following weekend to Oregon State, Stanford could steal the conference championship away—that is assuming Stanford wins on Saturday and follows that up with a win against Notre Dame.

Both are vying for a trip to Pasadena to meet the Big Ten winner. Right now the Oregon Ducks hold destiny on their own wings. If they win out, they win the conference. But that is the rub—winning out. Arizona is perfect at home.

They love their own playground and play excellent defense. Oregon may be cracking under the pressure. But Ducks prefer flying into the wind. Zultan foresees them beating the Wildcats at home.

(8) Oklahoma at Texas Tech

Going to Lubbock, Texas—sounds like a John Travolta flick featuring a Texas Two-Step sound track, or a Waylon Jennings plaintive love song. It will be none of these things on Saturday. It will be a struggle of a top-notch defense against a high scoring offense.

Oklahoma, banged-up, bruised, and broken, will put the pieces back together again for another road trip deep in the Big 12 South, where the home crowds are loud and the refs don’t always see.

The stakes are high for both teams—Zultan likes Oklahoma and picks them to take Texas Tech at home.

(9) No. 8 LSU at Mississippi

Notice that Zultan did not shy away from the tough picks this week. This one tops them all, as these two SEC teams battle it out. LSU and Mississippi can both break you with their defense—suffocating and aggressive.

But LSU has suffered some key injuries that hurt them, and they will not have RB Charles Scott, who suffered a broken collarbone last week. The Tigers may also be without quarterback Jordan Jefferson.

Mississippi has fallen on hard times since the start of the season. But this is an offense with explosive potential led by their quarterback Jevan Snead, once considered a Heisman contender. With the injuries to LSU and with home field advantage, Zultan must pick Mississippi to take this one.

(10) Air Force at No. 22 BYU

BYU was taken by surprise by New Mexico (0-10) winning only 24-19 against a team they should have blown away. Team members are saying that this near disaster was a well-timed wake up call before the Cougars meet tough traditional Mountain West Conference rivals Air Force and Utah.

Air Force will provide a much more diverse and tougher contest against the Cougars who cannot afford to turn the ball over this week. Expect the lesson to be learned. BYU will hold off Air Force and improve their MWC standing.

Last week seven lucky prognosticators bested poor old Zultan. They are to be heartily congratulated for their winning ways! David Eck, Cedar Falls, IA, Mike Vanderver, Howell, MI, and Jason Brown, Hampshire, IL all went 8-2. While Kim Suong, Fort Madison, IA, Daniel Repp, Albuquerque, NM, Craig Fudge, Woodbury, MN, and Ryan Sparrow, Channahon, IL finished 7-3.

Zultan covers the world!

This is your last chance to match wits with the master—so take advantage. He who wades in deep water often gets his feet soaked. Zultan has been wet all season. Take a leap. See if you can beat him before he becomes at one with the wistful fates...

Iowa-Ohio State Football: Do You Believe in Miracles?

J.A. Allen — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 17:50:52 -0500

Conceivably, a horseshoe can be a crab, an adrenal gland, or even a stadium.

For the Iowa Hawkeyes on Saturday, however, it will transform into the proverbial lion’s den—the place where a defiant Daniel was sent without weapons to meet his fate against overwhelming odds before a packed house.

According to the story, Daniel emerged unharmed because of divine intervention. Is that possible on Saturday in Columbus, Ohio? If you believe so, you are among the few.

The injured and indefatigable Iowa Hawkeyes will be met by 105,000 screaming, blood-thirsty Buckeye fans who want to shoot down the winged black bird. Ohio State intends to bring him crashing from his lofty flight.

In their excitement, fans have forgotten that Buckeyes themselves can’t fly unless they are launched from a slingshot.

Red-shirt freshman James Vandenberg will be given the task of propeling the Hawkeye offense. Prior to taking the reigns last Saturday, as the Hawkeyes fell to the underrated Northwestern Wildcats, Vandenberg had thrown three passes in 2009. These all came during the Iowa State game after Iowa had built a comfortable lead.

Iowa has not had many of those “comfortable” leads this season, as most of its finishes have gone down to the wire.

The backup quarterback’s sudden appearance early in the second quarter last week left the inexperienced Vandenberg wobbly in the pocket, as Iowa failed to score against the Wildcats. Vandenberg ended up completing 9-of-27 passes for 82 yards, as Iowa lost for the first time in 2009, by a score of 17-10.

Vandenberg hails from Iowa, the Hawkeye State. During his high school career in Keokuk, he threw for over 7,700 yards and 93 touchdowns. He does know how to do it. He just needs to be in sync with his receivers.

The question is, just how quickly can the young man from Keokuk come up to speed? For the Iowa faithful, it must be very quickly, or Iowa’s storybook season will surely come to an end.

The real tale of the season is, truth be told, not Iowa’s win-loss record. Iowa did not win nine games in a row because of Ricky Stanzi, although the Iowa starting quarterback often breathed life into a stagnating offense. More important, Iowa won as a team and lost as a team.

Last year Iowa had the luxury of Shonn Greene, the school's consensus All-American who ran the football for over 100 yards each and every game. A feat so impressive it is the dream of every football coach in America.

This year, the expectation of success has shifted squarely onto Stanzi’s shoulders, and winning has become his beast of burden. Most of the time he has handled it well, but he has never assumed, nor have the coaches assumed, that this was a one-man show.

What has been the hallmark of consistency this season is Iowa’s defense and its efforts on special teams. Timely turnovers have provided a platform for victory for the Iowa Hawkeyes.

Blocked field goals, recovered fumbles, and interceptions have paved the way for the offense to shine. No one understands that better than Norm Parker, Iowa’s defensive coordinator, and Kirk Ferentz, Iowa’s head coach.

It has nothing to do with luck, magic, or even divine intervention. It has to do with hard work, dedicated practices, belief, and working as a team. If there is any magic to be wielded on the afternoon, it should come from Iowa’s Big D.

As the Hawkeyes head into the Horseshoe in Columbus, the odds will not be in their favor, even though they have not lost on the road this year.

Ferentz does not own a victory in the Horseshoe. Iowa’s record there is 8-28-1, and four of those victories took place in the 1920s. Iowa last won in Columbus in 1991—18 years ago. In fact, the Hawkeyes are not only consistent losers in Columbus, they lose big.

Iowa has not played Ohio State since 2006, when the Hawkeyes lost by a 38-17 margin in Kinnick Stadium. The Hawkeyes have not played in Columbus since 2005, losing once again, 31-6.

But is this what Ferentz and Co. are pounding into the Iowa squad? What the coaches are emphasizing is that Ohio State is vulnerable this year. They are not the juggernauts blocking the road to victory that they have traditionally been.

"It's going to be exciting," Vandenberg told HawkeyeSports.com. "It's a great atmosphere, they're a good team and it should be a very exciting place to play. That's what you dream about. I have to make sure I'm on top of the ball on everything now. Now I'm in the light and it's my job to get prepared as much as I can."

Stanzi will be making the trip to Columbus to serve as team captain and mentor to the young Vandenberg. Stanzi will not be playing because he is recovering from ankle surgery.

The thing about being an underdog is that no one expects you to win. Iowa comes in a huge underdog to the Ohio State Buckeyes on Saturday, especially because they are rolling out an untested quarterback. It is the Hawkeyes' bit of bad luck for the season—the loss of Stanzi.

Ferentz, ever the philosopher, believes in the "what will be, will be" approach to football. If Iowa wins, then it was meant to be.

Iowa, 9-1 overall and 5-1 in the Big Ten, will face off tomorrow against Ohio State, 8-2 overall and 5-1 in the conference.

One team will emerge from this game with an inside track to Pasadena and at least a tie for the Big Ten championship.

Will the Horseshoe prove disastrous once again for the Iowa Hawkeyes, or can they turn the thing upside down for a change of luck in 2009?

In the Zone with Roger Federer, Pt. 2: Australian Open 2007

J.A. Allen — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 09:03:36 -0500

I’ve grown accustomed to your pace...

No one was more acutely aware that Andy Roddick was on a roll during the 2007 Australian Open than Roger Federer. The Swiss No. 1 had been keeping a watchful eye on the progress of Roddick through out the early rounds.

This was the man who had defeated Federer in the semifinals of the Kooyong Classic, a warmup event, a few weeks ago.

Federer was not really surprised that in the quarterfinals Roddick had rolled over Mardy Fish 6-2, 6-2, 6-2 in about 90 minutes on Rod Laver Arena while committing only two unforced errors. He had seen Roddick accomplish such feats before—especially over Fish. They were buddies and knew each other’s games inside and out.

During his quarterfinal match, Federer, who won the Australian Open in 2004 and 2006, overcame having his serve broken four times in his 6-3, 7-6 (7-2), 7-5 win over seventh-seeded Tommy Robredo. Federer would advance to the semifinals where he would meet the American Roddick who had only defeated him once in their 13 meetings.

Roddick was confident, prepared, psyched up with Jimmy Connors sitting in his box daring him to defeat this champion. If you dream it—it will happen. Picture it in your mind and it will unfold that way...

The crowd, the press, and the commentators in the booth felt the positive energy flowing from A-Rod. This, they assured each other and the world, was going to be one of those special occasions.

And it was—except not the way Andy Roddick hoped or anyone else dreamed.

It was a night in the deep-seated, intensely mesmerizing zone inhabited by the Swiss maestro, Roger Federer. In the beginning as the match got underway no one could imagine the scope of the clinic Federer would put on.

The Match

The first set began with Roddick being broken in the opening game even though he managed to get five of six first serves in play. Roddick broke back in the fourth game to even matters. They remained on serve until 4-4 in the first set.

It was at that point in the match that Federer moved into another sphere unknown to most human beings. He became at one with the court, the ball, the racket and the net. Roddick was serving at 30-15 when Federer hit an overwhelmingly powerful backhand passing shot for a winner.

At 30-30, Roddick’s sliced backhand fell into the net as he approached.

Finally, at 30-40, Roddick met Federer at the net, where Federer rebounded quicker and with more touch to complete the break of serve. The first set for Federer (6-4) was in the bag as he held at love.

What no one including Roddick understood immediately was that the match was essentially over at that point. Federer would go on to win 11 games in a row—in fact, 24 of 27 points—as Roddick watched, dazed.

It becomes difficult to catalog the full array of shots zipping past the befuddled Roddick who could do nothing to stem the tide of forehand flicks that skimmed the net and dipped just out of Roddick’s reach.

There were several running one-handed backhands blasted from edges and corners that zipped down the line away from a lunging Roddick. There were volleys hit so sharply that they bounced twice against the rubber surface and quickly died—unable to be returned.

Through it all Federer seemed as calm as still waters can be while underneath the undisturbed demeanor he was amazed at this game he was unleashing against the number one American.

It all was summarized in this moment when in the fourth game of the second set, Roddick, behind 3-0, was astonished to find that Federer had given him a short ball. All of his anger and frustration converged as Roddick attacked the yellow sphere. As he moved forward, he smacked the ball with all the power in his possession and the ball landed near the baseline.

It was an absolute rocket.

Most players would have ducked for cover, but Federer did not. Instead, he bounded to his left, hitting a backhand reflex half-volley as he moved. The ball whistled cross court for an absolute clean winner while the crowd exhaled in unison in their amazement, soon bursting into whistles and shouts.

Roddick stood at the net dumbfounded at the apparent ease by which Federer had turned Roddick’s winner into such a monstrous loser. The American went down to defeat in the set, 6-0.

Roddick had no answers for Federer during the semifinals. No one could as Roger zoned in on the finish line. After the opening eight games, Federer remained untouchable. Everything turned to gold.

Roddick was helpless against the assault. He grew angry and frustrated because no one wanted to turn this around more than Roddick.

Even Hawkeye—which we all know is hated and despised by the Swiss No. 1—was going Federer’s way. Federer was a perfect 4-for-4 on challenges for the night. All calls went Federer’s way.

Federer converted all seven of his break points against one of the best servers in the game. The win sent Federer into the finals against Fernando Gonzalez, which he won 7-6, 6-4, 6-4, giving him his 10th Grand Slam title and his third Australian Open championship.

The best press conference in the history of press conferences occurred when Andy Roddick answered reporters questions after the match. Click here to watch this amazing encounter.

Federer had many moments, numerous matches when he was in the zone. We have been able to highlight a few and perhaps will find many more to detail in the months to come. Stay tuned for others in this In the Zone series...

[This companion piece—In the Zone with Roger Federer, Pt. 2—is the second part of a previous article by Clarabella Bevis. Click here to read her entry].

Zultan's Fearless Big Ten Plus Football Predictions: Week 11

J.A. Allen — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:54:25 -0500

Zultan, in complete disguise, is hiding out in a convent in the upper Himalayas. The Big 10 reduced the mighty seer’s reputation to rubble. The great one’s efforts to enrich the storied conference’s prestige were diminished and degraded last week as Zultan missed 4-of-6 picks in the Big 10.

The disgrace has reduced the Great One's caloric intake to 3,000 a day...need I say more?

Zultan’s Mom is also in rehab after the Iowa loss. She is expected to pull through if Iowa defeats Ohio State in the Horseshoe. Who are we kidding here? Mom is toast.

Zultan scraped bottom this past week going only 5-for-10 in his assault upon college football odds-makers. This represents a season low for the sultry seer, who falls to 74 percent on the year, picking 67-of-91 through Nov. 7.

As for the rest of the Big 10, the seasoned seer has given up all scientific forms of prognostication and is drawing winners' names out of a cauldron.

The most compelling contest on Saturday in the Big 10 takes place in Columbus, Ohio where the Iowa faithful will pray for a Hawkeye miracle. That is what it will take for Iowa to remove the stake through the heart handed them by the traditional media nay-sayers.

So get in line to test the waters this week as the Big 10 plays for post-season glory. The challenge is yours; the question remains, do you feel lucky? Because keep in mind that Zultan has gone underground where abberant forces love to wreak havoc with predictable outcomes...

(1) South Dakota State and Minnesota
Zultan wonders at the collapse of Minnesota. What is it about November every year that makes the Gophers hibernate too soon? It seems a pattern. Minnesota rockets out of the blocks, takes the lead, but cannot compete when others catch up or pass them. They have no overdrive, no third gear. South Dakota State is no patsy team coming into Gopher-land. They reside in the Missouri Valley Conference where the little guys play big football. Northern Iowa lost to this team—Northern Iowa that almost defeated Iowa opening weekend. Advice to Big 10 teams trying to tread water—avoid the Missouri Valley Conference teams. Zultan’s instincts tell him to pick SDSU but the cauldron pick is the Big 10 Team at home. Minnesota for the win.

(2) Indiana at No. 18 Penn State
Joe Paterno has learned how to lose. Winning is easy. He will have his team ready to play on Saturday as the Nittany Lions host the Indiana Hoosiers. The Hoosiers need to win. If they lose, their hopes for post-season are over. They have played well in patches. They have come close and almost made it over the wall. But, they will not beat the Nittany Lions in Happy Valley. The Lions will play for pride, keeping in mind that they still have a chance to do well and finish high in the Big 10 and the BCS. This one goes to the Nittany Lions.

(3) Michigan at No. 20 Wisconsin
Michigan needs one more win to become bowl eligible. Where is their chance greater: on the road at Wisconsin or at home against Ohio State? Talk about your impossible choices! Wisconsin is riding high, well on its way to finishing a great season and, except for Iowa, they do not lose at home! Then there is Ohio State coming into Ann Arbor. If Purdue can defeat Michigan at home, it stands to reason that Ohio State can, as well. Will Wisconsin be over-confident? No; no team with a collective memory will overlook Michigan. Zultan believes that Michigan will not get asked to the prom. The Wolverines will be dateless during bowl season. Wisconsin wins this one at home.

(4) Northwestern at Illinois
Northwestern is bowl eligible. Illinois needs to win their last three games. Can they do it? They are at Northwestern, at Cincinnati and at home against Fresno State on Dec. 5. Almost impossible, Zultan predicts. Still, the Illini are winning, having won their last two contests. Yes, Northwestern beat Iowa, but mainly, Iowa beat themselves and precious little scoring came from Northwestern’s deliberate offense. Expect Illinois to stand up to the Wildcats and take this one at home. It will give them the needed push into Cincinnati where the season will come crashing down around them. Illinois at home wins this one.

(5) Michigan State at Purdue
The schizophrenic Boilermakers are impossible to predict. Michigan State swims in and out of their game. The odds-makers call this one a toss-up. Michigan State needs to win one more game to become bowl eligible. Purdue—who has beaten both Ohio State and Michigan—needs to win their last two to become eligible for post season play. What a year this has been in the Big 10 who may not have earned respectability in the world at large, but has certainly kept everyone’s attention! Michigan State needs to win this one or look at entertaining Penn State next weekend. Hmmm? Purdue has no choice but to win this one at home. So, they will. Why not? This is a cauldron pick for the mighty one. Purdue wins this one at home.

(6) No. 10 Iowa at No. 11 Ohio State
Zultan has arranged for his mother to be entertained by a troop of sock puppets during the Iowa-Ohio State contest just so her last hours will be happy ones. This game is the BIG ONE for all the marbles, the brass ring, the pot of gold and the last rites. The odds-makers have the Buckeyes as 14.5 point favorites against an Iowa offense they consider decimated. So why bother to play the game, right? It is all over but the shouting. But Zultan will not abandon his lovely mother who threatens to disinherit him, the Hawkeyes or the state of Iowa. He picks the mighty Hawkeyes to rise like Phoenix from the ashes and smote the Buckeyes where they live—in Columbus. Catch me if you can! Iowa wins on the road!

(7) No. 16 Utah at No. 4 TCU
Hey, when you are ranked No. 4 nothing bad can happen to you. Look at the Iowa Hawkeyes last weekend ranked fourth and playing an inferior team at home. Oops! Surely the TCU Horned Frogs will not suffer similar fate, although the Utah Utes are hardly cast in the same role as the Northwestern Wildcats. Both teams come in undefeated in conference play. The Utes lost once this year to Oregon in Eugene in September. The TCU Horned Frogs are undefeated on the year. Most often, the Utes win this contest, having won five of their last six meetings, including last year. But this year is a bit different. Zultan will not be too surprised if the Utes upset this No. 4 ranked team. But according to form expect the TCU team to win this one at home as a cauldron pick—TCU at home.

(8) Stanford at No. 9 USC
Last weekend Stanford upset the Oregon Ducks 51-42 at home. It was one of few Zultan predicted correctly on Saturday. USC won. The Trojans held on to defeat the Arizona State Sun Devils 14-9. Stanford wins—but usually at home. USC cannot afford to lose again. Especially at home. Pete Carroll will have his team ready to meet the Cardinal. This one goes to the Trojans at home.

(9) Nebraska at Kansas
How much good news can Nebraska fans stand in one football season? Last week they upended then-ranked Oklahoma in a defensive struggle in front of their home town folks. They have compiled a 6-3 winning season to date and have skirted in and out of the top 25 rankings for college football teams. Surprisingly, Nebraska is playing well on the road and to date are sitting second in the Big 12 North, just a game behind Kansas State. True, the Huskers are far from their glory days.

Kansas, on the other hand, has been on a 4-game losing swoon after winning their first five games. The Jayhawks need another win to establish bowl eligibility. This will not be that game. Expect Nebraska to continue their winning ways on the road while the Jayhawks continue to fade.

(10) Texas A & M at Oklahoma
Both Big 12 South teams have 5-4 records and each needs another win to cement their presence in post season play. What is different about these two teams is that Oklahoma has not lost at home on the season and Texas A & M has a losing record on the road. After the Sooners dismal showing last Saturday against Nebraska, you can bet Bobby Stoops will have his troops re-energized and ready for battle on Saturday. There is still room for the Sooners to finish well in the Big 12 and end up in a premiere bowl game in January. Zultan takes the Oklahoma Sooners to win at home.

A horde of would-be seers bested the mighty Zultan this past week, one going 7-3 and the other eight going 6-4: Jeff Harmeyer of Iowa City, IA - 7-3; Dave Walmsley of Mt. Juliet, TN - 6-4; Virgil Peterson of Dunlap, IA - 6-4; Perry Chappano of Columbus, OH - 6-4; Keith Baughman of Fremont, NE - 6-4; Tanner Battles of Pensacola, FL 6-4; Patrick Nicholson of Des Moines, IA - 6-4; Justin Rose of Cedar Falls, IA - 6-4; and Austin of Pella, IA - 6-4.

Hmmph, rather like shooting fish in a barrel, wouldn’t you say! Regardless, the lucky ones are to be congratulated for their amazing insight.

Time grows short for you to match wits with the all-seeing seer. One more weekend in the Big 10 season and then the Bowl picks! Zultan urges you to click here to enter your own predictions for the games detailed above. See if you can muster together enough savvy to outwit the mighty Zultan. The choice is yours - time is running out in 2009 and who knows what the fates have in store for the all-seeing seer in 2010? Zultan may not make it back from the upper regions with his impressive prognostication skills intact...

[This series is also published and promoted on Sports Then and Now - http://sportsthenandnow.com/

Final 2009 Women's Power Rankings: Serena Williams Tops the Pyramid

J.A. Allen — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 09:20:45 -0500

It only makes sense that Serena Williams, who finally reclaimed the No. 1 WTA ranking, should also regain the No. 1 Power Ranking and end 2009 as the reigning top player.

She won the year-end tournament in Doha, which turned out to be an endurance contest rather than a tennis tournament. There was as much tape wrapped on legs, knees, feet, elbows, wrists, and fingers as there are miles of road leading to Doha.

It gives the debate about scheduling more teeth as the tour heads into 2010. Week after week in 2009, the top pros were pulling out of tournaments or trying to play hurt because of the impossible schedule imposed upon them.

This is a monumental problem for both the women and the men. It is hard to deliver when you have no legs to stand on. But some did. Regardless, the final 10 for 2009...

The Top 10

1. Serena Williams (907 points)

Last four tournaments: Doha [Winner], Beijing [R16], U.S.Open [SF], Toronto [SF].

Serena mowed down all the competition she faced in the season-ending WTA Tournament in Doha. She went 3-0 in the round robin and defeated Caroline Wozniacki, the No. 4 seed, in the semifinals and her sister Venus Williams (6-2, 7-6) in the finals. She proved to all that she deserves the No. 1 WTA ranking and she ended the calendar year on top of the Power Rankings for 2009.

While all the other women were dropping like flies with injuries, Serena hung on, leg heavily taped, and made her way into the winner’s circle and hopefully into the 2010 season with a great outlook and a more cautious demeanor on court.

Current WTA Ranking: 1. Last Power Ranking: 10

2. Svetlana Kuznetsova (416 points)

Last four tournaments: Doha [RR went 1-2], Beijing [Winner], Tokyo [R32], U.S.Open [R16].

After a long layoff, Svetlana Kuznetsova surfaced at the WTA year-ending tournament in Doha where she predictably faded quickly in the round robin but not before knocking Elena Dementieva out of the running—helping to secure Venus Williams’ place in the semifinals. Kuznetsova ends the year injury-free, ranked No. 3 in the world.

2010 promises to be a good year for the enigmatic Russian who this year won the French Open as her surprise of the season. We wonder what unexpected result Kuznetsova will spring on us next year! How about the Australian Open?

Current WTA Ranking: 3. Last Power Ranking: 3

3. Venus Williams (412 points)

Last four tournaments: Doha [Finalist], Beijing [R32], Tokyo [R64], US Open [R4].

Last year’s champion in Doha, Venus Williams, had an opportunity to repeat, but she had to go through her sister Serena Williams to do it. Venus did not quite manage the feat as the youngest Williams sister Serena won the contest, 6-2, 7-6.

With Serena’s left leg severely taped and Venus’ knee tightly wrapped, they provided living proof of what was left of the walking wounded on the women’s tour. Venus fought hard the whole tournament but came up short on her last outing.

Venus’ fortunes fell off at the end of 2009 with constant niggling injuries. Hopefully, she can put herself back together in time for the tour to restart in January, which, as they say, will be here before you know it.

Current WTA Ranking: 6. Last Power Ranking: NR

4. Jelena Jankovic (398 points)

Last four tournaments: Doha [Semifinalist], Moscow [QF], Beijing [R32], Tokyo [Finalist].

You have to give Jankovic credit. Even though her roller coaster performances all year have kept her rankings and her game on the edge, she hung in there. After squeaking by and gaining entry into the prestigious year-end tournament in Doha, she qualified for the semifinals by winning her round robin.

She faced Venus Williams and lost a hard-fought contest, 5-7, 6-3, 6-4. Like most others on the tour, Jankovic has had to fight injuries. She is looking to regain her form and her preeminence as a top contender in the women’s game. 2010 offers her an opportunity to begin again.

Current WTA Ranking: 8. Last Power Ranking: 7.

5. Marion Bartoli (351 points)

Last four tournaments: Bali [Finalist], Osaka [QF], Beijing [SF], Tokyo [QF].

Bartoli made it to the finals of the Commonwealth Bank Tournament of Champions in Bali, Indonesia. She fought her way into the lead in the first set but had to withdraw after losing it with a left quadriceps strain. The injury ruined a spectacular run for the French woman and once again interrupted her rise to the top of the women’s game.

Injury sidelines Bartoli too often as she attempts to make her way into the top 10 rankings. Like all the aspiring women on the cusp, Bartoli is hoping for better results in 2010.

Current WTA Ranking: 12. Last Power Ranking: 8

6. Aravane Rezai (308 points)

Last four tournaments: Bali [Winner], Linz [R1], Luxembourg [R1], Beijing [R1].

Aravane Rezai had a perfect tournament in Bali where she ran through her round robin, 2-0, and then defeated Maria Jose Martinez Sanchez in her semifinal match, 6-2, 6-3. She met and defeated Marion Bartoli in the final, taking the first set 7-5 as Bartoli was forced to retire with an injury. It was a great win for the younger French woman.

With her first appearance in the Power Rankings this season, Rezai could very well be a future champion in the making. We shall keep an eye on her for 2010.

Current WTA Ranking: 44. Last Power Ranking: N/R

7. Caroline Wozniacki (299 points)

Last four tournaments: Doha [Semifinalist], Osaka [Semifinalist], Luxembourg [R1], Beijing [R1].

Wozniacki has made it back into the Power Rankings after taking some time off with recurring injuries. It looks as though she tried to come back too soon. She did make it to the semifinals in Doha where she had to retire against Serena Williams when she could not continue because of a left abdominal strain.

Wozniacki has had quite a year reaching the finals of the U.S Open and entering the ranks of the WTA top 10. This youngster holds lots of promise and we expect her to continue her winning ways as she moves into 2010.

Current WTA Ranking: 4. Last Power Ranking: N/R

8. Agnieszka Radwanska (288 points)

Last four tournaments: Doha [Alternate - 1 win], Moscow [R32], Linz [SF], Beijing [Finalist], Tokyo [SF]

As a reserve in Doha, Radwanska saw action against Victoria Azarenka seeded No. 6 whom she defeated. But the Pole did not make it into the semifinal round. Radwanska did end the year in the top 10 and has hopes of improving her game in anticipation of the ongoing hard court season as it moves outdoors in 2010.

Like the others, Radwanska continues to play with a heavily taped left leg. Perhaps the wrapping will finally be removed, freeing her movement and opening up her game.

Current WTA Ranking: 10. Last Power Ranking: 4.

9. Kim Clijsters (257 points)

Last four tournaments: Luxembourg [R16], U.S.Open [Winner], Toronto [R16], Cincinnati [QF]

Kim Clijsters renounced her retirement during the summer of 2009. Then she won the U.S. Open—her first major since her return to the game. After that, Clijsters regrouped, entering the tournament in Luxembourg but going out in the second round, in three stiff sets, to Patty Schnyder.

With the anticipated return of Henin and the continued improvement of Sharapova, the women’s tour looks to the future by building on these past champions and awaiting the arrival of the new players as they make their way up the ranks.

Current WTA Ranking: 17. Last Power Ranking:5

10. Victoria Azarenka (252 points)

Last four tournaments: Doha [RR 1-2] Beijing [R2], Tokyo [Quarterfinalist], U.S.Open [R3].

Azarenka has battled injury for most of the year. Her fiery determination and explosive reactions reveal her great desire to win. While she has no major weapons, Azarenka never quits. If “will” has a “way,” then Azarenka will find a way to win. The 2010 season promises a heavy dose of the gal from Belarus in the big moments.

Current WTA Ranking: 7. Last Power Ranking: N/R

Author's Thoughts On Power Rankings...

As the women’s tour takes a hiatus, so do the Power Rankings for the women’s side. The men will continue through the end of the month. In 2009, we have covered the Rankings every week starting last spring to keep you up to date on the current movers and shakers on both sides of the net.

The women’s tour has seen many new faces as well as old ones come and go depending on the surface and the time of year.

Contributors Rob York, Rohini Iyer, Feng Rong, Rajat Jain, Clarabella Bevis, and yours truly, J.A. Allen, have all contributed to the Power Rankings for the women. Many, many thanks go to Feng Rong for coming up with our special ranking formula—it makes the process here quite unique and has contributed to the success of this series.

For the women, farewell until January!

Iowa-Ohio State: Will 2009's Hawkeyes vs. Buckeyes Be Déjà Vu of 1985?

J.A. Allen — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 08:23:18 -0500

Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it.

The year was 1985 and the setting was Iowa City, where the Iowa Hawkeyes under the leadership of head coach Hayden Fry were enjoying the best season memory could recall.

The Iowa faithful had grown to love almost everyone—even in the media—except Beano Cook, who could possibly love that cranky forecaster who obviously had it in for Iowa!

Three weeks into the season and the Hawkeyes were declared the No. 1 team in the nation. Chuck Long, Iowa’s vaunted quarterback, was a frontrunner for the the Heisman trophy.

Could life get any better?

During the sixth game of the season, No. 1 Iowa, still undefeated, welcomed the No. 2 Michigan Wolverines into Kinnick Stadium. Iowa trailed in that game, 10-9, as the clock was winding down in the fourth quarter. With five minutes left in the game, Iowa regained possession of the football on the Iowa 22-yard line.

Long drove the Hawkeyes the length of the field to the Michigan 12, where kicker Rob Houghtlin successfully kicked a field goal as time expired with rain dripping off his helmet. Iowa escaped, 12-10, and its season was preserved.

The following week the 1985 Hawkeyes played at Northwestern, where they won, 49-10. But on Nov. 2, 1985, the Hawkeyes had to travel to Columbus, Ohio, to play the Ohio State Buckeyes, who were then ranked No. 8.

Back then, nobody could beat the Buckeyes in Columbus. Iowa had not won there since 1959. In fact, Ohio State had won its last 20 games at home.

It would be Iowa’s severest test of the season, after upending Michigan. If the Hawkeyes got by the Buckeyes, then they could conceivably end the season undefeated but certainly end it as Big Ten champs.

Dare to dream, Cinderella Iowa. This promised to be the game of the season against an Ohio State team that specialized in smashing pumpkins.

Long led a potent Iowa offense with running back Ronnie Harmon in the backfield. Marv Cook stood in at tight end and Houghtlin was rock-solid as Iowa’s place kicker.

The Hawkeyes also fielded a powerful defense led by Dave Haight (DL), Larry Station (LB), Devon Mitchell (DB), and Joe Mott (DE).

In 1985 there was no BCS. The winner of the Big Ten played the winner of the Pac-10 in the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. At this point in the season, it appeared that the winner of this game was playing for a chance to go for the Roses.

The day dawned dreary, drizzling, as the rain-soaked crowd of 90,467 packed into Ohio Stadium during the much-anticipated contest. The rain began in earnest in the second quarter.

The media had been speculating all week about the injured Buckeye Keith Byars, the Big Ten’s leading rusher and scoring champion.

Would he be able to play in the biggest game of the year?

Byars suffered from a bruised foot he received the previous week in a game with Minnesota. If he could not play, the duties would fall to freshman Vince Workman, who would split time with John Wooldridge.

Not known at the time, Wooldridge was also suffering from severely bruised ribs. Both backs would also rely on big fullback George Cooper to provide his much-needed bone-crunching blocks.

Ohio State’s defense would have its hands full as well trying to slow down an impressive Iowa offense for which Long led the nation in passing efficiency. He had thrown for over 1984 yards with 21 touchdowns and eight interceptions.

In the Ohio State locker room before the game, Byars ranted on about the meaning of this win for Ohio State. A win against Iowa would forever seal this day as one of Ohio State’s greatest victories.

Let the game begin

For Iowa, the day could not have been worse, as Long was intercepted four times and Ohio State recovered a fumble, leading to a score.

The record crowd of 90,467 in rain-soaked Ohio Stadium watched Ohio State build a 15-0 lead—as John Wooldridge’s 57-yard run led to a score, plus two field goals by Rich Spangler and a safety when Sonny Gordon blocked an Iowa punt.

When Workman ran it in from four yards out after an Iowa fumble, Ohio State built a 22-7 lead with 11:39 left on the clock.

Iowa ended the day down by a 22-13 final score, as Long completed 17-of-34 passes for 169 yards.

He called it one of the most frustrating days in his illustrious college career. The extreme noise of the crowd and the inability to settle himself in the pocket doomed Long’s chances of a victory and the Heisman which in the end went to Bo Jackson.

The Buckeyes also fielded a more diversified offense than they usually had. Quarterback Jim Karsatos, fifth in the nation in passing efficiency, threw for 151 yards (10-of-17, two interceptions). Fullback George Cooper had 104 yards in 17 carries.

The Ohio State defense dominated and denied the Hawkeye offense all afternoon. They harassed and confounded Long causing him to throw under pressure and without time—resulting in the four interceptions.

The Buckeye defense stopped drives dead and took the heart out of the potent Iowa offense. The tackle that turned out to be the ultimate wedge in Iowa’s path to victory came at the hands of Chris Spielman, who drilled Ronnie Harmon, stopping him for no gain on 4th-and-1—on the Ohio State 10-yard line late in the third quarter.

Harmon was done for the day after that tackle.

Coach Earl Bruce’s Buckeyes rose up and smacked down the Iowa team without compunction or pity. That was the Big Ten way and is still the way today. At the end of the day, both teams stood 7-1 overall. Bruce called it the finest victory in his career.

The aftermath

It seems natural, looking back on that game 24 years ago, that Spielman would recall it as the best game he ever played in while Long and Co. during reunions celebrate only the Michigan win and push the memory of the Ohio State game forever out of their consciousness.

Iowa was 7-0 heading into the game in Columbus in 1985. This year the Hawkeyes are 9-1. At the conclusion of the game next Saturday, they will either be 10-1 or 9-2. They will either be tied for second place in the Big Ten with Penn State or be leading the Big Ten race once again.

It all depends on the Iowa fighting spirit and the ability of a red-shirt freshman quarterback in James Vandenberg to rise to the occasion to lead an Iowa team to victory.

It appears that Ricky Stanzi will not be engineering the Iowa offense next week. Regardless, Iowa still controls its own destiny.

In the end, Ohio State will have its own demons to overcome. At least it knew and understood Stanzi. This week the Buckeyes must prepare against an unknown quantity.

Now, who can say if this 2009 game will rank up there with the 1985 contest in the eyes of Buckeye fanatics? It has all the ingredients to stir up some real controversy. True, no top-five national ranking exists any longer in the Big Ten, but there is plenty of action left to watch unfold.

In 1985, Iowa bounced back and won its last three games and represented the Big Ten in Pasadena, losing to UCLA. The Ohio State Buckeyes went on to lose two of their final three games and played BYU in the Citrus Bowl, which they won.

In the end, we must wait and see, speculating and anticipating...the future has not been written...

Andre Agassi: An "Open" and Shut Case...

J.A. Allen — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 09:13:50 -0500

It goes without saying that drugs are bad, even recreational drugs. That is why it is impossible to get them, right? If drugs are a cancer to our society, then, of course, as a society, we are doing everything in our power to counter them—protecting our children, our community, our cities, and our states.

It is much the same for harmful weapons like guns. We do not allow children or citizens who may harm others access to something that presents such an immediate and present danger. Right?

As a people, as a community, we are doing everything in our power to create a safe environment for all people living within our boundaries. We treat everyone who breaks the law equally within our deliberate, yet passionate, justice system.

If you believe the preceding statements are true, then you live in la-la land with the rest of the self-appointed name-callers and blame-gamers who hug today’s headlines.

It is the holier-than-thou critics who instantly rise to criticize someone else’s behavior who continually irritate the lining in one’s stomach.

Recently, Andre Agassi had the courage to stand up and confess his addiction to methamphetamine during his professional tennis career. In fact, he states that in 1997 he was caught using crystal meth by the ATP during a routine drug test.

When he lied about the circumstances, saying he accidentally ingested the drug by drinking his assistant “Slim’s” spiked soda, he compounded his guilt by lying. Because he imbibed inadvertently, according to his statement, his probable three-month suspension was dropped and the matter never came to light.

Never assume you understand what motivates people to reveal their secrets. Andre Agassi chose to admit this infraction in his upcoming autobiography, Open, which will be released this week.

What he reveals is that he was a young man in deep trouble. He needed help and turned, like so many young people do, to drugs. His father was an unforgiving, self-centered man who drove and abused Agassi. It appeared as well that Agassi’s marriage to Brook Shields was built on an illusion.

Agassi’s hatred of his father and subsequently tennis became reflected in his on-court demeanor. Agassi was losing his grip on his tennis fortune, his life, his marriage, and ultimately on his integrity as a person.

In the course of reading Open we learn "Slim" is the person who introduced Agassi to the illicit drug. Like most who come to depend on mood-enhancing substances, Agassi grew dependent upon the euphoria provided through crystal meth.

Agassi was the former No. 1 ranked player in the world in 1995, but by 1997, he had dropped to No. 141. He was barely playing tennis, mainly just appearing at tournaments to honor a commitment and collect a check. He was destroying himself deliberately.

The press treated him with disgust and disdain. Many believed the Agassi free fall was a result of his marriage to Shields; saying the American’s interest in tennis took a leave of absence after the April nuptials.

There was no hint of the real problem—Agassi’s addiction.

So why confess it now? Why, after years of redemption and good work, would this man suddenly invite the level of abuse he currently endures?

It is laughable to listen to certain commentators suggesting Agassi is doing it for the money and for the publicity. He does not need the money and this is not the kind of publicity any major sports figure seeks out.

Martina Navratilova announced she was shocked—as were we all. She goes on to compare Agassi to Roger Clemens, who is accused of using steroids throughout his Major League Baseball career. The difference is that anabolic steroids are performance-enhancing drugs.

If Clemens and others used these substances to give them an advantage over other athletes, then that is another matter. No one can claim that crystal meth in any way aides one’s performance. Quite the contrary. It causes you to fall from No. 1 in the world to No. 141 in terms of tennis reality.

The fact is Agassi put his addiction behind him and devoted himself to redeeming his tennis career, his life and his commitment to his community. He became an ambassador for tennis and played on until his body could no longer tolerate the constant pounding and rigors of the tour.

He created a foundation and devoted his considerable resources to fund a school for underprivileged kids in Las Vegas. His ambition is to improve educational resources for the entire state of Nevada.

To suggest it is to Agassi’s advantage to confess all is patently ridiculous. He is doing so to highlight a real problem in sports and in our society today. He sets himself up to show that it is possible to break a most addictive habit, reform, and come back from hell stronger than ever.

He is illustrating an option and giving hope to the youth who suffer from low self-esteem and lack of parental support.

It is easy to sit back and do nothing and rest on your laurels. It is quite something else to risk everything you have accomplished to make a statement about rising above your circumstances and doing what you can to promote healing.

These actions illustrate that there is more to this man than his tennis career. Andre Agassi wishes to continue to inspire young people by letting them know that the true danger lies in trying to escape the world rather than dealing with it head on...

[Previous entries in this opinion series on the hot topic of Andre Agassi include Rob York's article yesterday on "How Andre Agassi Should Respond to His Critics" and Hotnuke's article "Andre Agassi Shocks the World with "Open" admission of Meth Addiction."]

Federer Forte: Roger Reaches the Finals in Basel

J.A. Allen — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 18:05:21 -0500

When you are in Switzerland playing in front of a deliriously happy home crowd in Basel, then you must be Roger Federer. Or not.

You might also be Marco Chiudinelli, who upended a surging Richard Gasquet to find himself in the semifinals of the Davidoff Swiss Open on Saturday.

His task will be to defeat Swiss No. 1 Roger Federer, as the world’s top player attempts to win his fourth consecutive Swiss indoor title.

Earlier in the day, it appeared that Stanislav Wawrinka might also be part of the Swiss party, but after playing superlative tennis for one and three-quarters sets, Swiss No. 2 Wawrinka failed to take advantage of his many opportunities to put Novak Djokovic away.

In the end, the Serb walked out with the victory, 3-6, 7-6, 6-2. Djokovic will play Radek Stepanek on Saturday for a chance to meet one of the Swiss duo in the championship match on Sunday.

Stepanek slugged his way into the final by defeating Marin Cilic in the first match of the day, 4-6, 6-3, 6-3. Cilic is still battling for entry into the ATP World Tour Finals in London, but time is definitely running out.

Chiudinelli, who has spent the last few years suffering with myriad injuries, has made an impressive run through his hometown tournament, defeating the No. 8 seed, Phillipp Kohlschreiber, in the opener.

A wild-card entry, Chiudinelli next met and defeated qualifier Michael Lammer. Today, of course, he waylaid Richard Gasquet in straight sets, 6-1, 6-3.

For Federer, his charge of the day was to defeat the Russian qualifier Evgeny Korolev, who arrived in the quarterfinals by defeating Simone Bolelli and then Jeremy Chardy before meeting Federer during the final match of the day on Friday.

Federer won the first set in 29 minutes, 6-3. He won the second set by a 6-2 score. The whole match took a little under an hour. Federer was his normal impressive self, breaking the Russian’s serve once in the first set and twice in the second.

It was great to watch the master at work again on his canvas of choice. While his matches thus far have been fairly routine, credit must be give to Chiudinelli, who has played the best tennis of his life to get to the semifinals.

He will not simply hand the match over to Federer. Expect Chiudinelli to fight Federer for every point tomorrow.

Tournament organizers naturally hope for a final between Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, with the Swiss tournament officials, of course, ultimately desiring a win by their native son.

Last year, Federer absolutely smoked David Nalbandian in the final to the delight of the hometown crowd.

Federer’s hope in addition to capturing his hometown tournament for the fourth time in a row is to improve his chances of ending the year at the No. 1 spot regardless of his showing in Paris or in London for the year-end finale.

In the meantime in the Valencia Open in Spain, the four semifinalists in action there on Saturday are No. 1 seed Andy Murray vs. No. 4 seed Fernando Verdasco.

Much is riding on this match, because year-end seeding depends in large measure on whether Verdasco makes it to the finals in Valencia.

In the other semifinal is where the battle of the Russians continues, as Mikhail Youzhny is back to playing his usual aggressive brand of tennis. He will be looking to defeat No. 2 seed Nikolay Davydenko, whose seeding in the Barclays ATP year end tournament is still up in the air and would be settled by a win here.

Next week all the usual suspects head off to Paris for the BNP Paribas Masters. Last year’s defending champion Jo-Wilfried Tsonga’s physical condition is still in doubt, but he is hopeful to be able to successfully defend his title.

It is, of course, the ninth and final Master’s event of the season. The drama surrounding the tournament is essential in determining the last entries into the final eight to fight it out round-robin fashion at the Barclays in London.

So as the year winds down, the heat revs up for the championships this weekend as well as the start of the BNP Paribas Masters.

Everyone involved in the ATP hopes that London will be the start of something big...

Queens of the Court: Little Mo Connolly's Grand Slam Feat

J.A. Allen — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:36:05 -0500

"There is nothing like competition. It teaches you early in life to win and lose, and, when you lose, to put your chin out instead of dropping it."

— Maureen Connolly

Although her career spanned just a little over four years, Maureen Connolly’s reign at the top of women’s tennis was one of the game’s most dominant.

Like many little girls growing up in America, Maureen Catherine ("Little Mo") Connolly loved horses. She wanted a horse of her own and she wanted to learn how to ride. But family circumstances prevented Mo’s mother from being able to afford to give her little girl riding lessons.

Instead, her mother bought her the tennis racket she desired and enrolled her in lessons. Because of that, Maureen Connolly became a tennis player—perhaps the greatest tennis player her sport has ever known.

Growing up in California aided her development, as, in San Diego, weather was hardly ever an issue. At the tender age of 10, she learned to play on the municipal courts of the City of San Diego, where her first coach, Wilbur Folsom, encouraged the young Connolly to switch from a left-handed grip to a right. Connolly was a natural left-hander.

As a consequence, that change allowed her more power and accuracy, and with the blossoming of her strong backhand, Miss Connolly became a baseline specialist, having developed overpowering groundstrokes from both sides.

Once she established her game, Mo Connolly moved quickly into the rarefied air of champions. She came in second in the very first tournament she entered. Later, Connolly worked with world famous coach Eleanor "Teach" Tennant. Tennant had previously coached women’s champions Helen Wills Moody and Alice Marble.

At age 14, she astounded the tennis world by winning 56 consecutive matches. She followed fast upon that feat by winning the U.S. National Championship for girls 18 and younger the following year.

In 1951, at the age of 16, Connolly became the youngest ever to win the U.S. Championships by defeating Shirley Fry in the final at the West Side Tennis Club in Forest Hills, NY. Remarkably, Connolly lost only four more matches during the rest of her career.

Expanding her tennis horizons in 1952, Connolly recaptured her U.S. Championship title and won Wimbledon for the first time. After she hired a new coach, Harry Hopman in 1953, Connolly decided she was ready to enter all four slam events.

Astoundingly, she won all four, making her the first woman ever to accomplish such a feat and the second person ever to win tennis’ Grand Slam—winning all four championships in a calendar year.

During the four tournaments, Connolly dropped just one set. On the way, she defeated Julie Sampson Haywood to win the Australian Championships and Doris Hart to win the French Championships, Wimbledon, and the U.S. Championships.

Connolly played aggressive all-court tennis, even though her strength remained rooted in her baseline game. She had tremendous foot speed. There were not many balls she could not reach and once she met the ball, the chances of it returning back over the net were slim.

Throughout her career, Little Mo was a fierce competitor. In The New York Times during her era, Allison Danzig once wrote, “Maureen with her perfect timing, fluency, balance and confidence, has developed the most overpowering stroke of its kind the game has ever known.”

In 1954, Connolly successfully defended her French and Wimbledon Championships, choosing not to go to Australia. She, of course, was planning to defend her title at the U.S. Championships later in the summer.

After attaining fame and fortune through tennis, Connolly was finally able to pursue her life-long love of being a horse-woman and she rode regularly now that money was no longer an issue. Her friends and neighbors presented her with a thoroughbred colt named Colonel Merryboy after Mo enjoyed a very successful European tour in 1952.

While riding Merryboy during that fateful summer in 1954, Little Mo passed close by a cement mixer truck. Her horse reared and Mo Connolly’s right leg was crushed as she was forced against the truck. Her leg was broken and she suffered with deep gashes affecting muscles and tendons.

Although there was initially hope of recovery, Little Mo would never play tennis again, and she was only 19 years of age. Connolly announced her retirement in February of 1955.

Her accomplishments in her brief career were staggering. She had won the last nine Grand Slam tournaments she had entered. This also included winning 50 singles matches.

Australian Championships - Winner 1953
French Championships - Winner 1953, 1954
Wimbledon Championships - Winner 1952, 1953, 1954
U.S. Championships - Winner 1951, 1952, 1953.

Because of her success and her youth, Connolly became a favorite with the media. She was the most popular female athlete of the year for three years between 1951-1953. Off-court, she remained approachable and friendly to the press.

She loved tennis yet recognized the darker side of professional athletics. Being at the top of the game meant that you were always a target on court and that everybody sought to bring you down.

The need to succeed and to win was part of being a champion, but it also brought out tremendous fear and anxiety in one so young.

She once remarked, “Tennis can be a grind and there is always the danger of going stale if you think about it too much. You can get embittered if you train too hard and have nothing else on your mind. You have to be able to relax between matches and between tournaments.”

The end of her tennis career, however, did not end Connolly’s association with tennis. She wrote and coached and, eventually with her husband Norman Brinker, formed the Maureen Connolly Brinker Foundation to promote junior tennis.

At the conclusion of her career, Connolly remarked, “Tennis is a wonderful game and I leave it with no regrets. I’ve had a full life with lots of travel and I’ve met lots of wonderful people...”

Connolly died at the age of 34 with stomach cancer. She left behind a tennis legacy highlighted with these facts: (1) She was ranked in the top 10 from 1951 through 1954; (2) She was ranked world No. 1 from 1952-1954; (3) She was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1969; and (4) She was inducted into the International Women’s Hall of Fame in 1987.

As stated previously a Grand Slam is defined as winning four majors in one calendar year. Maureen Connolly Brinker was the first woman ever to win a Grand Slam in women’s tennis. She did so in 1953.

The only other person to have accomplished this feat at the time was Don Budge on the men’s side in 1938. Rod Laver later won two Grand Slams in 1962 and in 1969 for the men.

Since Little Mo’s accomplishment in 1953, Margaret Court won the Grand Slam in 1970 and Steffi Graf added one in 1988, as well as winning the Olympic Gold Medal in tennis singles that year for a “Golden Grand Slam.”

The air is indeed rarefied for these superlative champions. Many have come close, but no one has accomplished a Grand Slam on the women’s side in over 20 years. Will it ever happen again? We wonder and wait...

[Quotes taken from www.nytimes.com in an article titled "On this Day, June 22, 1969."]

Previous Queens of the Court articles by Clarabella Bevis and Claudia Celestial Girl:

Helen Wills Moody, the Garbo of Tennis http://bleacherreport.com/articles/276355-queens-of-the-court-helen-wills-moody-the-garbo-of-tennis

Molla Mallory: Mould Breaker and Mould Maker of Women’s Tennis

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/267135-molla-mallory-mould-breaker-and-mould-maker-of-womens-tennis

Althea Gibson: A Pioneering Tennis Talent

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/281141-ueens-of-court-althea-gibson-major-talent

The Divine Suzanne Lenglen http://bleacherreport.com/articles/277686-queens-of-the-court-the-divine-suzanne-lenglen

Zultan's Fearless Big Ten Plus Football Predictions: Week 10

J.A. Allen — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:23:21 -0500

Zultan was betrayed by the entire State of Michigan last Saturday.

The mighty seer would have been perfect on the day had it not been for this lowly state. Zultan has requested that Canada annex Michigan as a new province because both Michigan and Michigan State are now banished from Zultan’s kingdom. Maybe the Wolverine State needs a Big Blues Clue! Let them flounder in the Northern Regions.

This week, despite the record number of challengers who sensed the mighty one was vulnerable, only two surpassed the peerless Zultan, going 9-for-10. Zultan, because of Michigan and Michigan State, stood at 8-for-10, or 80 percent. On the season, Zultan simmers at 77 percent picking 62-of-81 through Oct. 31.

The most inscrutable contest on Saturday in the Big Ten takes place in Beaver Stadium, where Ohio State comes calling in a place only the locals think of as “happy.” Another impossible call presents itself when LSU arrives in Tuscaloosa to play Alabama. These are just two of the many difficult challenges ahead for the all-seeing seer of seers.

Is this the week when you are finally going to stand up and be counted among Zultan’s peers? The challenge is yours—the question remains: Do you feel lucky? Because keep in mind that Zultan has more than luck on his side—a warning for the faint at heart...

(1) Western Michigan at Michigan State

Zultan recalls that Western Michigan lost to Michigan by a 31-7 score on Sept. 5; then they lost to Indiana the next weekend, 23-19. This is the Broncos' third Big Ten opponent. If they require lunch money, at least the Broncos reside in the same, soon-to-be-exiled state—if Zultan has his say. The Spartans need two more wins to become bowl-eligible. Michigan State will win this game—out of pride and to regain its footing down the stretch.

(2) Illinois at Minnesota

Illinois has regained its belief after upsetting Michigan at home last week. A few preseason critics, as you may recall, picked Illinois to win the Big Ten title this season. It did not happen.

Winning on the road at Minnesota would go a long way to adding real bite to the Illinois comeback. But Zultan fears it is not going to happen. Illinois will not be able find redemption back-to-back. Expect Minnesota to win this one at home.

(3) Northwestern at No. 4 Iowa

Northwestern usually proves to be a thorn in the side of the Iowa Hawkeyes. The Wildcats will come into Iowa City with nothing at all to lose and everything to gain. They will tease and torment the Iowa faithful. In the end, however, Iowa will win this contest at home in the same inimitable fashion it has used all season. The Hawkeyes would not wish to disappoint their legion of critics by winning comfortably. That is not their way, because they are fated to win by the hair of their chinny-chin-chin.

(4) Purdue at Michigan

The Purdue Boilermakers limp into Ann Arbor after being shut out by the Badgers in Madison while the Michigan Wolverines stagger back home after being blistered by the Illini in Champaign. Both teams are stunned after playing subpar football.

The question is—who will bounce back far enough to win this game? As reluctant as Zultan remains after being sorely disappointed by this team last week, the mighty seer must pick Michigan to win at home.

(5) No. 21 Wisconsin at Indiana

Wisconsin shut out Purdue last weekend and Iowa shut down Indiana. Wisconsin took a giant step back into the heart of the Big Ten race after losing two previous games to Ohio State and Iowa. Indiana played superlative football in the first half and hung with the Hawkeyes during the third quarter as Iowa continued to give the Hoosiers the ball. Even though Indiana will be at home, Wisconsin should win this contest. Zultan picks the Badgers to gnaw the fighting fiber out of the Hoosiers.

(6) No. 16 Ohio State at No. 11 Penn State

This game will ultimately decide who has a legitimate shot at the Big Ten championship. If Ohio State wins, all the Buckeyes must do is beat Iowa at home and Michigan on the road to win outright. If Penn State wins, Iowa may still lose to one opponent in their upcoming schedule. If Iowa suffer two losses, Penn State will be in the driver’s seat to win the conference title.

Penn State next hosts Indiana and finishes the season at Michigan State. The team that loses at Penn State next weekend will have two Big Ten losses. Zultan picks Penn State to win this game at home and to free up the Buckeyes’ traditional hold on the Big Ten Conference championship.

(7) No. 19 Oklahoma State at Iowa State

The Oklahoma State Cowboys were embarrassed by their loss to the Texas Longhorns last Saturday. It was a prime-time smackdown.

This week they travel to Ames to face the wounded Iowa State Cyclones, who appear to be pasting together the remnants of their team. Quarterback Austen Arnaud and running back Alexander Robinson are supposed to be back in the lineup. Granted, the Cyclones surprised the Nebraska Cornhuskers, but they will not be able to sneak up on the Cowboys. Expect Oklahoma State to return to form and let the air out of the Cyclone offense. Zultan expects the Cowboys to the rope the Clones in on Saturday.

(8) No. 9 LSU at No. 3 Alabama

This is the key contest in the SEC West. The winner of this game will undoubtedly meet Florida for the SEC championship game. A win might also boost No. 3 Alabama to the top of the heap in the BCS. Sometimes those conference championship games are criminal.

But before all the SEC tears start flowing, Alabama must defeat LSU to establish such a scenario. The outcome is no certainty. The unease surrounding the Tide’s perfect season remains a mystery. Still, Zultan favors Alabama at home to take care of the Tigers, sweeping them aside until next year.

(9) No. 24 Oklahoma at Nebraska

In years past, this matchup used to be the college game of the season. Barry Switzer against Tom Osborne—always a nail-biter and often well worth all the hype. Those were the days of the Big Eight and the Orange Bowl. These days Nebraska is a member of the Big 12 North and Oklahoma similarly a member of the Big 12 South. While Oklahoma has retained its solidarity and its national prominence, Nebraska has been floundering since the retirement of Osborne.

This year Big Red fans should be very nervous with a realistic Oklahoma Sooner team on a mission to salvage their year. Zultan expects the Sooners to reduce the Nebraska defense to compost and their offense to tackle bait...

(10) No. 8 Oregon at Stanford

No. 8 Oregon set the Pac-10 on its ear last week by emphatically upending the USC Trojans in Eugene. It was another disproportionate win by an underdog. Most experts predicted a USC win—though Zultan the magnificent got it right. The Mighty Ducks are swimming through the undertow of the Pac-10 Conference.

But the Stanford Cardinal have won eight of their last nine games at home. They rank 20th in the nation in total offense and 16th in rushing. True, they are not quite at the caliber of the Ducks, but then the Ducks are flying high on adrenaline after the stunning victory last week, and it is never easy to win at Stanford.

Will they be able to land and play the fastidious game they need in order to defeat the Cardinal at home? Zultan calls this one a tossup and picks the home team Stanford Cardinal to win in an upset.

Only two bested the mighty Zultan this past week: Bruce Plett from Wilton, Iowa, and Rick from Lake Park, Fla. They are to be congratulated for their wisdom for bypassing the State of Michigan, unlike the erudite but misguided prognosticator.

Time grows short for you to challenge the wisdom of the all-seeing seer. Zultan urges you to click here to enter your own predictions for the games detailed above. See if you have the right stuff to outwit the mighty Zultan. The choice is yours—suffer in silence or be applauded for your football savvy.

[This series is also published and promoted on Sports Then and Now: http://sportsthenandnow.com/]

Iowa Hawkeye Halloween: The Indiana Hoosiers' Worst Nightmare

J.A. Allen — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:01:21 -0400

In honor of Halloween, the Iowa Hawkeyes disguised themselves in their Jekyll and Hyde costumes.

They played like the destructive Hyde, too, until the fourth quarter, when the rational and sane Dr. Jekyll was able to restore order and reappear as quarterback Ricky Stanzi in his opportunistic stance behind the center, reading the defense and completing passes.

Then, too, someone cast a spell on the football in the fourth quarter when it managed to bounce Iowa’s way garnering every bit of luck, including the wind at their backs.

For the Iowa faithful, it was an agonizing afternoon of waiting for the good guys to materialize, which they finally did in the fourth quarter, scoring 28 points to come from behind once again to secure another victory.

Stanzi threw a career-high five interceptions in one game, yet still maintained enough poise and confidence to come back in the fourth quarter and win the game.

First Quarter: Are We Playing Yet?

During the first drive of the afternoon, Indiana marched down the field in 11 plays, gaining 69 yards behind the leadership of quarterback Ben Chappell. Darius Willis rushed it in the final 4 yards for Indiana’s first score of the day.

On Iowa’s first drive, although the Hawkeyes moved the ball, they couldn’t punch it in. Instead, they tried for a field goal, a 44-yarder by Daniel Murray that was unsuccessful.

The first quarter ended as Collin Taylor of Indiana intercepted a Stanzi pass on the Indiana 41-yard line. Indiana held the lead 7-0.

Second Quarter: Shooting Yourself in the Foot

After four punts to start the second quarter, Indiana took over on the Iowa 35-yard line capitalizing on a botched Ryan Donahue 8-yard punt. Indiana found the end zone in five plays on a Chappell pass to Mitchell Evans for 16 yards. The point after moved Indiana in front 14-0.

Iowa returned the favor by taking the ball on its own 15-yard line, marching down the field 85 yards in five plays as Brandon Wegher ran it in 4 yards for a touchdown. With Daniel Murray’s extra point, Iowa trailed Indiana 14-7.

That made the uneasy fans feel a little better.

With 2:39 left in the half, Iowa kicked off. The Hawkeyes stopped the ensuing Indiana drive, forcing the Hoosiers to punt. Amari Spievey, trying to return the kick, fumbled on the Iowa 12-yard line.

Indiana scored again when Chappell passed to Damario Belcher for 9 yards. With the point after by Nick Freeland good, Indiana went into the locker room at half-time with a 21-7 lead.

Iowa fans were not happy. The team seemed flat, uninspired. How could this be possible with so much riding on the outcome of this game? Indiana was definitely in the driver’s seat so far.

Third Quarter: Nightmare on Elm Street

The third quarter did nothing the appease the restless fans sitting on the sidelines watching this game unfold.

Indiana kicked off to Iowa with Derrell Johnson-Koulianos returning it to the Iowa 22-yard line. After three completed passes up field, Stanzi’s fourth pass was intercepted by Austin Thomas at the Indiana 5-yard line.

After forcing another Indiana punt, Stanzi, starting at the Iowa 10-yard line, was once again intercepted by Donnell Jones at the Iowa 26. He returned it all the way to the Iowa 4.

Willis rushed the ball two yards. Then Chappell threw incomplete into the end zone. On third and goal, the Halloween demons spiked a little trick or treat into the game plan.

Chappell’s pass was deflected and after bouncing off three players, wound up in Iowa Hawkeye Tyler Sash’s hands. He ran it back 86 yards for an Iowa touchdown. With Murray’s point after, Iowa closed the gap to 21-14.

That fateful event probably saved the game for the Iowa Hawkeyes because if Indiana had scored again, going up 28-7, it may have sealed the victory for them.

"There's no quit in this team. We're going to play four quarters each week," said Sash, who said the interception first bounced off his helmet and was tipped by linebacker A.J. Edds before the safety grabbed it and "ran for my life."

On their next drive, Indiana’s field goal attempt failed. However, directly following this missed kick, Stanzi once again was intercepted by Matt Mayberry at the Iowa 24 yard line.

When Indiana failed to move the ball the required 10 yards, they settled for another field goal attempt, this once successful by Nick Freeland. Indiana now led 24-14.

To finish up the nightmare third quarter, Stanzi followed with another interception by Collin Taylor at the Indiana 7-yard line. He carried it all the way to the Indiana 46 for a 39-yard gain.

Fourth Quarter: Exorcising Demons

Indiana was forced to punt at the start of the fourth quarter.

On Iowa’s first possession in the fourth, Stanzi stepped into the pocket and fired a rocket to Marvin McNutt, who caught the ball and sprinted into the end zone on a 92-yard pass play. Murray put through the extra point and Iowa closed to 24-21.

After another three and out for Indiana, Stanzi again threw another touchdown pass, this time to Johnson-Koulianos for 66 yards. With Murray’s successful point after, Iowa took the lead for the first time of the day 28-24.

When Shaun Prater intercepted Chappell at the Indiana 39-yard line, Iowa found another scoring opportunity in the offing.

This time a series of rushing plays culminated with Wegher running it in to the end zone from 6 yards out. Murray’s extra point was good. Iowa led 35-24.

There was approximately 7:30 left in the game. On the next drive, Indiana was forced to punt.

Iowa took over and began running the ball to eat up the clock. At 3rd-and-2 on the Indiana 27-yard line, Wegher rushed for a touchdown and the final score of the game. With the point after good, Iowa led 42-24.

After Edds intercepted Ben Chappell’s last pass, Iowa ran out the clock, winning the game going away, so it seemed according to the score.

The Wrap-up: Lucky 13

According to coach Kirk Ferentz, "We definitely have been a second-half team and today a fourth-quarter team.

"They know this game goes 60 minutes. They refuse to quit. They understand football is a crazy game and that all you can do as a football player is keep playing."

Stanzi passed the ball for 337 yards, throwing over 300 yards for the first time in his career while at the same time throwing five interceptions. It was a game of bizarre extremes.

Iowa had 480 total yards, 337 passing and 143 rushing while Indiana had 306 total yards, 227 passing, and 79 rushing. Indiana was held to three points by the vaunted Iowa defense in the second half.

Iowa rolled up 21 first downs to Indiana’s 13; they converted 5-of-18 third downs compared to Indiana’s 7-of-13. Iowa had six turnovers to Indiana’s three. The time of possession was almost equal.

Iowa’s true freshman running back, Wegher, filling in for starter Adam Robinson who is out for the remainder of the season with a high ankle sprain, rushed for a season high 118 yards, including three touchdowns, two in the fourth quarter.

Iowa is off to its best start ever, going to 9-0 on the season and 13-0 totally. Next week they face Northwestern in Iowa City before heading to Columbus to play Ohio State in two weekends.

That one could have very interesting consequences depending on Ohio State’s trip to Happy Valley next Saturday.

[Quotes from Iowa Official Athletic Site: A Halloween Scare Turns to Iowa High Fives]

Roger Federer Fights for Supremacy in Basel

J.A. Allen — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 12:52:32 -0400

How many times can you inflate a balloon before the skin gives out—before the form will no longer hold air? Can you extend its life by only rolling it out only once a year to fly above the crowds lining the pavement during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?

I think of Underdog, somehow...always a favorite of mine.

If Underdog only flies once a year does that diminish his super hero powers when he does take to the air to save his darling, Sweet Polly Purebred?

These deep philosophical queries obviously have nothing to do with latex, but rather with the presumed deflating career of the greatest man ever to wield a tennis racket—Roger Federer.

I say this tongue-in-cheek, knowing many disagree with my assessment—understanding the comment may stir the fire again. Such is the nature of our business—is it not?

Roger Federer is 28. Most of the 28-year-olds I know are still babies—cloaked in baby fat and disgustingly wrinkle free.

In tennis years, however, being 28 is akin to being Methuselah. That is because tennis is hard on joints. Not the kind you smoke or where you go to down a few brewskies after work—but innumerable body parts.

Knees suffer, backs suffer, elbows, wrists and ankles all suffer because of the the constant stop and starting and the extreme exertion when you play day after day, week after week, often three and fours hours at a time for 11 months a year.

The sport of tennis kills off its best players prematurely with its scheduling. No one denies it—nothing is done to stop this cannibalistic tendency in this great sport.

Just when an athlete survives the early years to rise to the top and his or her experience might step in to provide an edge as athleticism begins to diminish slowly—the tennis player’s body is finished, exhausted, injured irrevocably because of years of constant wear and tear.

More than any other player in its history, Federer has tried to stop the march of time. With preventative conditioning as his primary focus, Federer has survived to fight another day in good condition, flying above his competition.

Instead of praising his foresight, critics wish to usher him out the door to make way for new talented players whose time is almost here.

For the media, it is not “if” but “when.” In the press there is no “standing still”; there is only moving forward or falling back. Such is the nature of the beast.

Those who see the irony of standing on this precipice understand the frustration superhero Federer must feel at trying to preserve his energies for the battles ahead. For Federer at 28, less must produce more. He needs to perform less often yet have the best results possible.

Hard to do? Very near impossible. You need to be a superhero, almost.

Which makes the tournament at Basel quite a poser this coming week. Federer is defending the title he won last year by bludgeoning David Nalbandian in the final. You recall 2008? It was not a pretty year for the Swiss man who managed to win only one grand slam, the U.S. Open.

What a bummer! But he took it to Nalbandian in the Swiss Open final, handing the Argentine his head on a platter, playing perfect tennis.

As reported by this commentator last year: “Federer was on fire from the first...he served like a coiled spring and moved like waxed silk. Eight aces blazed past David Nalbandian, one of them a second serve ace down the line that wowed the Federer crowd. Federer surrendered only seven service points in the entire match.”

This year, after taking a month off after the Davis Cup tie, Federer will return to play in his hometown tournament with typical high expectations awaiting him.

He must face a fairly potent field that includes Novak Djokovic, Richard Gasquet, Fernando Gonzalez, Ivo Karlovic, John Isner, James Blake, Radek Stepanek, and Stanislav Wawrinka—to name a few. As of this writing, Juan Martin del Potro has not confirmed his presence at Basel.

It looks like Federer will have his work cut out for him, but—with the exception of Ivan Ljubicic, Phillipp Kohlschrieber and Julien Benneteau, and a few others—the men participating are also well rested.

It will be a matter of working his way into the tournament. No doubt there will be no easy matches for any of the players whose games may be a bit rusty at this point. This tournament, too, will serve as a warm up for the final ATP event in Paris—the BNP Paribas Masters.

There is also the continuing saga regarding the final two positions for the end of the year Barclay Championships to be played in London with those in contention sparring at either Basel or at the Valencia Open.

In Valencia combatants Nikolay Davydenko, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Fernando Verdasco, Gilles Simon, Gael Monfils, as well as defending champion David Ferrer will compete with established finalists Andy Murray and Andy Roddick.

These last two weeks will determine who will secure the final two places up for grabs for a trip to London.

Federer is seeded No. 1 at Basel and he may be seeded No. 1 at the end of the year, though there is no assurance of that ranking at this point.

He has to be almost superhuman to continue his dominance. The question remains, though—can he do it? Those who believe in miracles sing on...Speed of lightning, roar of thunder—fighting all who lob or blunder—Underdog, Underdog!

Zultan's Fearless Big Ten Plus Football Predictions: Week Nine

J.A. Allen — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 09:26:40 -0400

Zultan abandoned his natural inscrutable psychic forces and went with science last weekend, to his detriment.

The bumps on his head should have led the all-seeing phrenologist to realize that the Huskers were shucked unable to stand against the full force of a Cyclone. It should have revealed that a Horned Frog was more resilient against first-down evolution than a Cougar. Finally, Zultan should have sensed that the Nittany Lion was in command against the lowly Wolverine.

Once again the mighty Zultan was 7-for-10, or 70 percent—on the season, the magnificent one stands at 54-of-71, or 76 percent.

Zultan dismisses silly science for the board this week. It is the season of sunset for foolish football fanatics...

Last week, 13 rank amateurs conspired to make Zultan look bad by outguessing him. Tireless Zultan does all the work and these interlopers sap his well-earned glory. This week Zultan lives to make them all rue the day they dared to disagree with the mighty one.

Care to test your puny predicting powers against Zultan—Big Ten Seer for the Ages? Only the great one has mastered the movements of the football forecasting fool-proof Ouija board...beware of the Zultan...

(1) Indiana at No. 4 Iowa

Indiana got off to a whale of a start against Northwestern and led by as many as 25 points when they began to flounder. When the rudder finally came off the ship—the hapless Hoosiers sank in the last second, 29-28, to the Wildcats.

Now this weekend as punishment for letting go a golden opportunity, the Indiana team must travel to Iowa City to play the red hot Hawkeyes who are enjoying a dented-but-never-broken season. Expect Iowa to continue down their schedule with an undefeated view by defeating the Hoosiers at home in front of deliriously happy fans.

(2) Purdue at Wisconsin

This game, Zultan fears, is not as easy as it looks on paper. The Purdue Boilermakers have won their last two games just as the Wisconsin Badgers have lost their last two.

Yes, the level of competition was slightly different with Purdue defeating Ohio State at home and then Illinois on the road as Wisconsin lost to Ohio State on the road and then Iowa at home on back to back weekends. You think that any team that has defeated Ohio State should be discounted? Probably not.

But Zultan senses that the Badgers will be ready for Purdue at Camp Randall. The Wisconsin team had a week off to study and prepare. They will defeat the Boilers in Madison and get back on the winning path.

(3) New Mexico State at No. 17 Ohio State

New Mexico State is a stranger to the Big Ten. To date they are 3-5, 1-3 in the WAC Conference. The Aggies are traveling far outside their comfort zone to come calling on the inhospitable Buckeyes.

The weather alone will stop them dead in their tracks. Expect the Buckeyes to send their WAC guests home without a victory. Zultan needs no crystal ball to predict this one.

(4) Michigan at Illinois

The question is: What will be the attitude of the Michigan squad after the smackdown they received at the hands of the Penn State Nittany Lions, 35-10? As the Wolverines travel to Champaign and Memorial Stadium to face the Illinois squad, they need to be ready to meet a team whose back is to the wall.

The Illini are winless in the Big Ten and upsetting the favored Wolverines could salvage their season. Will they do it? Zultan says no. The Michigan Wolverines will do their part to continue this nightmare season for the Illinois squad.

(5) No. 12 Penn State at Northwestern

Mean Joe Paterno continues his dominating ways. Last week he made Rich Rodriquez and the Michigan team cry. This week the mighty Nittany Lions will tree the Wildcats in Evanston. Northwestern made a huge comeback to upend the Indiana Hoosiers last week.

But they had better not fall behind early to Penn State or the Nittany Lions will make them pay big. Mean Joe has willed his team into contention. They await Ohio State but will not overlook Northwestern. Penn State wins this one.

(6) Michigan State at Minnesota

After that thrilling game last weekend against Iowa in which Michigan State only blinked once on the last play losing 15-13, the Spartans must hit the road this week, traveling to Minnesota. Minnesota is reeling after back to back losses to Penn State and Ohio State, both on the road.

The question is, who will be more resilient? If Minnesota had trouble moving the ball against superior defenses, then their task will not get easier against the Michigan State squad. Even at home, Zultan feels the Spartans will bounce back from their near miss and defeat the swooning Badgers. It is that time of year you know when Gophers start hibernating.

(7) No. 3 Texas at No. 14 Oklahoma State

Can anybody stop Texas? The Longhorns are fixed on the finish line and they are not going to let anybody get in their way—especially after what happened to them last year. Their biggest rival in the Big 12 is Oklahoma State.

The Longhorns must play in Boone Pickens Stadium in a night contest under the lights with a hostile crowd as background in Stillwater. Texas is undefeated 7-0 and 4-0 in conference play. Oklahoma State is 6-1 and 3-0 in conference play. Zultan’s board says take the Longhorns and run. Texas wins a tough one on the road.

(8) No. 5 USC at No. 10 Oregon

When Zultan sits at the board on this contest, the pointer spins. Both teams are ranked in the nation’s top 10 and both sport 6-1 seasons. The winner of this game has the inside track for the Pac-10 conference championship and perhaps a BCS bowl game.

The Ducks have not lost since their opening game against Boise State. USC was upset by Washington, owning one loss in the conference. Odds-makers are giving the slight edge to the Trojans. But Zultan will take the home team with the big heart. Oregon wins this one at home and moves up in the BCS.

(9) Kansas State at Oklahoma

Both teams have ambitions to be in postseason play. Oklahoma (4-3, 2-1) lost any chance at a national championship after losing at the Red River shootout. Kansas State (5-3, 3-1) is in the driver’s seat to win the Big 12 North at this point in the season.

That only gets them the glory of playing in the Big 12 Championship game in December probably against Texas. The Big 12 North pales in contrast to their southern rivals. Expect the Oklahoma Sooners to win this one at home. Zultan says you can bet the farm on this pick.

(10) No. 11 Georgia Tech at Vanderbilt

Zultan favors Georgia Tech to win this contest. The Yellow Jackets stand 7-1 and are ranked No. 11 in the BCS poll. Their ambition is to win the ACC Conference title. Vanderbilt of the SEC is 2-6 on the season.

They are a well-coached team with nothing to lose and everything to win by knocking off the Yellow Jackets. So will Vandy manage an upset against Georgia Tech? No. Zultan senses nothing extraordinary as the board zeros in on the stinging Jackets.

Last week, 13 lucky football fans outguessed Zultan (7 for 10). Picking 9 for 10: Jake Humphrey—Iowa City, IA; Scott Allen—Destin, FL; David Eck—Cedar Falls. 8 for 10: Daniel Repp—Albuquerque, NM; Jason Brown—Hampshire, IL; Matt DeSmidt—Fort Collins, CO; Chris Miller—Brownwood, TX; Monte Klinkenborg—Placerville, CA; David Colvig—Des Moines, IA; Eric Ludwig—Des Moines, IA; Dale Collins—Landon, SC; Alex Goedken—Kansas City, KS; James Krejci—Stevensville, MI.

Soon Zultan will list only those whose picks are worse than his own! This list is far too long. This week seems deceptively easy, does it not, oh greedy ones? Your confidence has outstripped your sensibility. You feel superior to the mighty seer and feel the need to “Top Zultan.”

Click here and give it your best shot, if you dare.

For the Iowa Hawkeyes, Eight Is Not Enough!

J.A. Allen — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 19:44:43 -0400

For the Iowa Hawkeyes, it was an ugly affair—traveling to East Lansing, playing in front of hostile fans demanding you go down to defeat. With all of that, you play poorly—in the sense that you cannot move the ball and you are unable to take the ball away from your opponents.

The 15-13 Iowa victory on Saturday was one of those traditional Big Ten slugfests with “three-and-out” more often than not controlling the tempo of the game. The defense was suffocating and the offense sputtered—no matter who was controlling the ball.

In the first quarter, the Michigan State Spartans scored with a 34-yard field goal by Brett Swenson. Iowa answered in the second quarter with a 37-yard field goal by Daniel Murray. At halftime it was tied 3-3.

In the third quarter, Swenson scored another field goal from 23 yards out, making the score 6-3. Daniel Murray equaled the challenge by kicking a field goal in the fourth quarter from 20 yards out and Iowa pulled even, 6-6.

Then Murray put through another kick with 2:56 left on the clock—another 20-yarder, allowing Iowa to go up 9-6. The majority of the action for the entire game took place in the final three minutes, as Iowa took the lead for the first time.

When Michigan State took possession of the ball after Iowa’s final field goal, all the Hawkeyes had to do was stop the Spartans from scoring. The Michigan State team needed a touchdown at this point to win this game—something they had been unable to accomplish for almost 60 minutes.

But it was exactly what the Spartans did with a bit of trickery. With a third down and 18 yards to go on their own 32-yard line, Kirk Cousins, the Michigan State quarterback, passed the ball 11 yards to Brian Lithicum, who then lateraled the football to Blair White. The stampede down the field ended as White was pushed out of bounds at the Iowa 20-yard line.

It was 1st-and-10 with 1:49 left on the clock. Michigan State took their last timeout. The first pass by Cousins was incomplete. On his second pass, Cousins found White in the end zone for a touchdown. With the point after, Michigan State now led 13-9.

There was 1:37 left on the clock and Iowa took over on its own 30-yard line. Ricky Stanzi’s first pass to Marvin McNutt brought the team to the Iowa 45-yard line. After Stanzi picked up three yards on the ground, at 3rd-and-7, Stanzi threw downfield, finding Trey Stross for a 21-yard gain.

Standing on the Michigan State 31-yard line, on his second pass, Stanzi threw complete to Derrell Johnson-Koulianos on the Michigan State 15-yard line. It was a 16-yard completion.

On the next play Michigan State seemingly intercepted, but flags flew and the Spartans were assessed half the distance to the goal for defensive pass interference for pushing Johnson-Koulianos.

Stanzi threw three passes in rapid succession, all incomplete. With two seconds left on the clock, Iowa called timeout. On the last play from scrimmage, Stanzi threw a seven-yard pass completion on a slant pattern to McNutt, who hung on and scored as time elapsed.

Iowa took a knee instead of kicking the extra point, winning the game by a 15-13 score.

"We got to the sideline and we figured we could beat them with this play," Stanzi said. "Marvin did a good job of getting inside. I was just worrying about that play. That's all you can really worry about."

This truly was a game of inches. It was highlighted by missed opportunities and rugged, aggressive defense. It was astoundingly error-free—no turnovers by either team.

"We have some resilient players on this team," Ferentz said. "What a great effort. It was a great drive by our offense. Our guys responded and they've been doing it all year. We've had some fantastic finishes, but the series of events the last two series...what a swing of emotions. Our guys always think there's a way to get it done. What a great play call by (offensive coordinator) Ken (O'Keefe)."

In total yardage, the Spartans held a 310-276 edge. Iowa had one more first down—18 to Michigan State’s 17. The Hawkeyes hung on to the ball for 32:02 minutes while the Spartans owned 27:58 minutes on the clock.

Iowa was dead even with 138 yards rushing and 138 yards passing, most of them in Iowa’s final drive. The Spartans gained 225 yards in the air and 85 on the ground. Iowa went 5-for-15 on third-down conversions while Michigan State went 5-for-14. Iowa had one fourth-down conversion—the final play of the game.

True freshman running back Adam Robinson was the workhorse on offense, gaining 109 yards rushing on 27 carries—his longest of the evening was 14 yards.

Iowa moves to 8-0 on the season, 12-0 overall, making the school’s winning streak the second longest in the nation.

Iowa gets its next two opponents at home; first Indiana, then Northwestern. The opportunity to end the year undefeated looms large yet indistinct because, on Nov. 14, Iowa must travel to Columbus to face the Ohio State Buckeyes for all the marbles.

In the meantime, the Iowa team and the Iowa faithful need a week to recoup from that major effort in East Lansing, when the easiest course of action would have been to give up. But when you are standing toe to toe against a big guy with a large fist, your instincts tell you to duck and counter.

Exactly. That is what you do when you know that lying on your face with your nose ground into the turf isn’t why you came to the party. You live to fight another day by standing up to opposition in the trenches and doing whatever it takes to win—whether folks think it looks pretty or not.

Iowa, at 8-0, looks pretty—and darn impressive...

Quotes taken from the University of Iowa's official athletic site @hawkeyesports.com—Final Play Fury

Iowa Hawkeyes 2009: Getting No Respect

J.A. Allen — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 12:04:03 -0400

"Champions believe in themselves even if no one else does."

— Unknown

The universal problem with the University of Iowa Hawkeyes is that no will will count them out—yet, no one quite believes in them, either. It is a terrible dilemma for the shy No. 6 Iowa Hawkeyes.

At the beginning of the 2009 campaign, all the BCS pollsters and pundits predicted that Iowa, although always good and tough, had the road schedule from Hell and they would probably finish in the middle of the pack in the Big Ten.

But, the experts went on to pontificate, if the Hawkeyes beat the Penn State Nittany Lions at home, Iowa would indeed be the best.

Not only did the Hawkeyes beat the Nittany Lions at home on prime-time television in front of a record-breaking and noisy Happy Valley crowd draped in white, they beat them in convincing fashion during a downpour, 21-10.

But the sports analysts reconsidered, tapping their foreheads, saying "Wait a minute, Iowa almost lost when it barely escaped from Northern Iowa, winning 17-16 in the closing seconds of the home opener."

The Hawkeyes cannot be that good to have just barely beaten a FCS team—an FCS team that is ranked No. 6 in the nation with highly-skilled, seasoned players, by the way.

Northern Iowa could have beaten any number of conference teams on that afternoon.

The point is that Iowa won. When is a “W” not a positive? Sometimes being lucky is as important as being good.

The Iowa faithful face hesitancy, as no one is willing to climb out on that big limb and proclaim the Hawkeyes as worthy. The next big test would be Iowa at home against Michigan. Here was another prime-time outing against a slightly tarnished Wolverine team.

Iowa won, 30-28, against a fiercely determined Michigan squad. The Hawkeyes had notched another victory; surely the pundits would embrace this team now.

No, not until the Hawkeyes traveled to Wisconsin, also undefeated at the time, to win another big road contest. Iowa beat the Badgers at Camp Randall, 20-10, becoming the only undefeated team in the Big Ten as Wisconsin fell and so did Ohio State.

But Iowa’s head is still on the chopping block as the high-flying Hawkeyes soar into East Lansing to face the now-mighty Michigan State Spartans. Michigan State believes. The Spartans think they can win based on statistics derived from teams they have played so far in the season.

Let’s see: They beat Montana State 44-3—then lost three in a row, to Central Michigan 29-27, at Notre Dame 33-30, and at Wisconsin 38-30. They did upset Michigan at home 26-20 and beat Illinois 24-14 on the road and Northwestern at home 24-14.

Iowa has won seven in a row, actually 11 when you look back to the last time this team lost. The Hawkeyes have beaten Northern Iowa (H) 17-16, Iowa State 35-3, Arizona (H) 27-17, Penn State 21-10, Arkansas State (H) 24-21, Michigan (H) 30-28, and Wisconsin 20-10. They have the toughest road schedule in the Big Ten.

Yet, Michigan State is favored to win this game.

Once again, Iowa is going to have to prove it is entitled to be undefeated. The Hawkeyes must, at this point, rise up and take this season by the throat. The time for being coy, for being humble, is over. The Iowa team must insist on being recognized for its exceptional play and its breakout season.

Essentially, what must separate these teams at this point in the season is heart.

The Iowa team is a reflection of its head coach, Kirk Ferentz. He is a man of few words, whose loyalty is boundless, and whose ability to motivate extends beyond the expectation to win.

Yes, Iowa has been lucky to date. But luck is often the product of being in the right place at the right time, and no defense does that better than Norm Parker’s young men.

That ability to think ahead and anticipate separates the great from the good. Iowa excels on defense. Just ask the Penn State, Michigan, and Wisconsin quarterbacks.

Iowa does what it takes to win. The defense is the team’s anchor, yet the offense is what drives this team forward with whatever opportunities the opposition provides. Iowa has proven it can pass and run this year.

What's more, this team has not reached its full potential. The Iowa team has surprises left to reveal. It certainly works hard and is the most well-coached team from top to bottom in the Big Ten.

After this week’s road test, Iowa can breathe a big sigh of relief—but that does not mean the Hawkeyes can let down, because they will have a big big bulls-eye on their backsides. They have only one more ticket to ride, Columbus and the Horseshoe on Nov. 14.

Otherwise, at home they face Indiana, Northwestern, and, as the final game of the season, Minnesota for the Floyd of Rosedale Trophy and perhaps the Big Ten championship and the Rose Bowl on the line.

Iowa may or may not end the season undefeated. Chances are that a stumble is in its future. Not many teams go undefeated for an entire season.

Regardless, the University of Iowa football team, at this point in the 2009 season, is one of the best squads in the nation.

All we must do is persuade the rest of the country that the Iowa team is not an illusion. Iowa exists and survives week to week in sterling fashion because it is that good.

Fess up and admit: This is a great football team!

Serving It Up in Doha: Women's Tennis Year-End Championships

J.A. Allen — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 08:11:16 -0400

Finally the end of another agonizing year for the women’s tour is upon us. As the eight top seeds in the women’s game head off to Doha, the tournament will reveal once and for all who will end 2009 ranked numero uno.

Poetically, Dinara Safina surpasses Serena Williams to once again be ranked No. 1 as they enter the season-ending Sony Ericsson Championships that begin on Oct. 27 in Qatar. Safina is currently ranked five points behind Serena Williams.

As of Oct. 26, when the new rankings come out, the points from last year’s championship will come off the totals. Safina has earned more points than any other player after winning titles in Rome, Madrid, and Portoroz, as well as reaching six finals. Therefore, she has earned the No. 1 seed.

Players earn points throughout the year, but only the top eight players are awarded entry into the Sony Ericsson Championship Tournament. For doubles, it is the top four teams that gain entry into the year-ending championship.

Who Is in?

No. 1 Dinara Safina 7,731 points

No. 2 Serena Williams 7,576 points

No. 3 Svetlana Kuznetsova 5,772 points

No. 4 Caroline Wozniacki 5,475 points

No. 5 Elena Dementieva 5,415 points

No. 6 Victoria Azarenka 4,451 points

No. 7 Venus Williams 4,391 points

No. 8 Jelena Jankovic 3,555 points

Jelena Jankovic just squeaked into the final eight this week when Vera Zvonareva lost to qualifier Tsvetana Pironkova in Moscow during the second round. The two were battling it out for the final eighth spot. Zvonareva blinked first and the feisty Serb is back in contention.

In 2008, Venus Williams won the tournament as the No. 7 seed, fighting for the championship against the No. 8 seed, Vera Zvonareva, 6-7, 6-0, 6-2. They both went through their respective round-robins undefeated.

What Will Happen in 2009?

At the year-end championships, the eight top players will be divided into two teams of four. Starting on Tuesday and going through Friday, the two groups play in a round-robin format, meaning each participant meets each player once in their group. The matches are all best of three sets.

The two players that have the best performance out of each group go on to the final phase. This takes place on Saturday and Sunday. In the semifinals, the first-placed woman from one group meets with the second-placed woman from the other, with the winners advancing to the final.

The doubles portion of the tournament is a straight win or lose affair. The winning team must move through the semifinals and finals with victories. There is no second chance in doubles. Teams qualifying: (1) Cara Black/Liezel Huber with 9100 points, (2) Serena Williams/Venus Williams with 6700 points, (3) Nuria Llagostera/Maria Martinez with 6396 points, and (4) Samantha Stosur/Rennae Stubbs with 5048 points.

Who Will Win This Year?

No. 1 Seed—Dinara Safina [55-15]

Dinara played well the first part of the year and her game excels on clay. On hard courts—nada! Dinara will not win the year-end championship and she will not be ranked No. 1 at the end of the season. You can take that to the bank.

No. 2 Seed—Serena Williams [45-12]

Just like every other tournament she enters, the Sony Ericsson Year-End Championships could be Serena’s if she chooses. She needs, however, to be interested long enough to stay engaged on court.

One must wonder about the potential waste of such a great talent. Perhaps if she could blog or Twitter or pose on court, that would pique and sustain her attention. Even with that degree of reservation, Serena Williams might just win. She could end the season ranked No. 1 in spite of herself.

No. 3 Seed—Svetlana Kuznetsova [42-14]

What a thrill for Sveta to win the French Open this year. The only consistent thing about the talented Russian is her inconsistency. Like Serena, she has the talent and probably the resiliency for this format, but you just never know what game she will bring from day to day. I would not bet the farm on Kuznetsova winning this tournament.

No. 4 Seed —Caroline Wozniacki [65-21]

Her debut in Doha at the year-end championships will surely be a milestone of some importance in her young career. The event will be overwhelming, plus she enters the tournament with some niggling injuries that will not adjust well to the constant play required with this format.

Great experience for the future, but do not count on the beautiful, young, talented woman to win.

No. 5 Seed—Elena Dementieva [54-16]

You root for her and try to push her over the top, but Dementieva will not win a slam nor will she win this tournament—in spite of her ever improving serve and her determination.

She started out 2009 on a tear, winning in the early going before injuries stalled her progress. It is the big events—the slams—that seem inevitably to stop her dead in her tracks. It would be a great reward for her to win this championship, but the odds are that she will not find the right stuff.

No. 6 Seed—Victoria Azarenka [44-13]

Azarenka is a smart player with subtle tactics and the ability to move you around but without enough power to blow you off the court.

This is also her debut at the year-end championships and it will be enough for her to have made it into the final eight—although she will never give up trying to win. But she won’t this year. Give her a year or two to tighten her offense.

No. 7 Seed—Venus Williams [36-13]

Last year as the No. 7 seed, Venus won this tournament going undefeated and it set her off on a splendid road in 2009 as she won her first 14 of 15 matches and ended up ranked No. 3 for most of the year.

She has not fared well of late, but seems rested and hopefully injury-free for the moment. Venus has proven she can do anything and she might just pull off winning this championship again.

No. 8 Seed—Jelena Jankovic [47-16]

All year, we have wondered what happened to the Serb’s game. Something is largely missing—at least on offense. Her defensive skills are still first-rate, but she fails to capitalize on her serve and on her ability to move from defense to offense.

At one point, ranked No. 1 after Justine Henin left the game, Jankovic has failed to move forward. She is grateful to have made it into the top eight. Hopefully that will be enough to satisfy her because she will not win this tournament.

The victory chorus will be sung no doubt by one of the Williams sisters again—just as in any big event. It will be interesting to see if they win the doubles, too.

2010 offers new adventures as Kim Clijsters hits her stride while Henin’s promised return beckons on the horizon. Maria Sharapova will find her service motion once again, and with all of these added factors, the women’s game seems primed for the year ahead.

The year-end championships in Doha are not bringing down the curtain—rather, the tournament serves to usher in a new beginning...

Zultan's Fearless College Football Predictions: Week Eight

J.A. Allen — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 09:41:33 -0400

What do a Buckeye, a Sooner, and a Hokie have in common? They all lost last weekend and ruined Zultan’s life! The mighty seer expected so much more—like a victory! Now the mighty one lives in torment as nine bested the exalted soothsayer, leaving him shrouded in shame.

Last week Zultan was 7-for-10, or 70 percent—do you get this percentage stuff yet? On the season, the all-seeing one climbs to 47-of-61, or 77 percent.

Phooey on amateurs is all Zultan says as he readies his magnificent mind for the impossible week ahead. This is where we separate the men from the boys, the bad from the ugly, the dazed from the confused. Get ready to rumble because Zultan is charged, firing on all mental cylinders.

Do you feel favored enough to pit your puny predicting powers against Zultan, Big Ten Seer for the ages? Time to take your turn at the big wheel...

(1) Indiana at Northwestern

Indiana was splendid last week against Illinois. But who isn’t?

Ben Chappell passed for over 300 yards, but who can’t against the Illini pass defense? To take nothing away from Indiana, the victory, 27-14, only meant a hitch up the confidence meter for the Hoosiers.

In the meantime, the Northwestern Wildcats held a scant lead at halftime against the Michigan State Spartans last Saturday; the Cats faded away in the second half and lost, though, 24-14.

So the great Zultan must ponder the matchup and decide who will take up the mantle of victory this weekend. With nothing concrete to go on, Zultan takes the home team.

Northwestern gets back on the winning track this weekend, winning at home against the Hoosiers.

(2) Illinois at Purdue

As Illinois sinks out of sight and Purdue climbs out of the basement after upsetting the Ohio State Buckeyes last Saturday, 26-18, the answer here is fairly obvious.

Zultan removed his curse on the Purdue Boilermakers as the “unluckiest” team in the Big Ten! The Boilers will defeat the stymied Illini on Purdue home turf.

(3) Minnesota at No. 18 Ohio State

Last weekend the Minnesota Gophers had to travel to Happy Valley, where they were toasted by the Penn State Nittany Lions, 20-0. This weekend they trek up to Columbus into the Horseshoe, which promises no luck whatsoever.

The Buckeyes will be stinging after their 26-18 upset at Purdue and will, no doubt, take it out on the Gophers. Expect the Buckeyes to come storming back, winning this contest at home hoping to still the anxious waters in Columbus.

(4) No. 13 Penn State at Michigan

He cannot look! Is it over yet? The all-seeing seer has had nightmares about predicting the outcome of this mammoth battle.

Ultimately, Zultan judges these teams by the way they played against Iowa. Michigan played the Hawkeyes better at Kinnick Stadium than the Nittany Lions did in Happy Valley.

Therefore, Zultan believes that Michigan will win its game played in Ann Arbor for all the right reasons—playing at home and making the right adjustments for an ever-improving team.

(5) No. 7 Iowa at Michigan State

Mom demands that Zultan go with Iowa over the Michigan State Spartans. Iowa hopes to advance its undefeated season by going to 8-0. But the Hawkeyes will not be playing in prime time—instead on the Big Ten Network. Hopefully under the lights will be enough.

The Spartans certainly cannot be discounted because they have been playing great ball of late, but the Hawkeyes have deigned this season as destiny. Zultan picks the Hawkeyes to notch No. 8 in East Lansing.

(6) No. 11 Georgia Tech at Virginia

The Yellow Jackets stung the Hokies last weekend and now will swarm the Cavaliers on Saturday. Even though Virginia is perfect in ACC conference play to date, the Cavaliers have not exactly met the cream of crop.

The Jackets have great aspirations and will not let the Cavaliers block their path to the top. Look for Georgia Tech to take away a victory on the road.

(7) No. 10 TCU at No. 16 BYU

This is one of those really big contests of this crucial weekend. Zultan has tossed and turned over this one.

The Mountain West Conference Championship probably lays on the line as well as bragging rights. Both teams are ranked, but both have met suspect competition to date.

BYU’s defense is often sitting in the locker room unable to make it to the field, unlike the Cougar offense, which strikes often with power. TCU, however, is one of the top 10 ranked teams in the country.

When in doubt, Zultan goes into a deep trance and watches reruns of I Dream of Jeannie. If that brings no results, Zultan takes the home team.

In this case Zultan picks BYU to hang on at home and win this game in the late going.

(8) Iowa State at Nebraska

Nebraska was upset last weekend in Lincoln by Texas Tech. The Huskers abhor losing at home.

To say the Nebraska offense looked anemic is a great understatement. The Red Raiders gave the Bo Pellini coached Huskers something new to think about—a change in quarterbacks. This is a dangerous proposition at this stage of the season.

Iowa State is coming in at just the right moment when the Huskers doubt themselves.

Zultan would love to give the underdogs the nod here, but let’s be real. The Cyclones have done much better than expected and have played tough against both Kansas opponents.

But, this week, Nebraska will settle their internal controversies and come back in time to neutralize the Cyclones. Nebraska wins this one at home.

(9) No. 25 Oklahoma at No. 24 Kansas

Both teams are rocking back on their heels after losing the previous weekend. Oklahoma failed at the Red River shootout and in the process lost their vaunted quarterback Sam Bradford in a 16-13 loss to Texas.

Kansas lost on the road to lowly Colorado, 34-30.

Both teams are barely holding onto top 25 rankings. So the question is, who will stop the skid and come out with a victory? Defense wins games while offense loses it. Zultan cannot envision Oklahoma losing this contest, even in Kansas.

Zultan believes the Sooners will roll over the Jayhawks.

(10) No. 3 Texas at Missouri

Zultan always loses his No.10 pick. So this week he is going to pick just the opposite of what he feels will happen. In this case the Texas Longhorns will travel to the “Show Me” state to illustrate to the Tigers how to win a football game.

Texas will win this contest, but the Missouri team will make it very interesting.

The Longhorns, after their big victory, may be ripe for a letdown, but they will not stumble because there is too much riding on this win to keep them ahead of their rivals, Oklahoma State.

As much as Zultan would like to pick the upset, he will not. Texas again wins another shootout.

Last week nine football fans outguessed Zultan [7-for-10], picking 8-for-10: Daniel Repp - Albuquerque, NM; Jason Brown - Hampshire, IL; Austin Garner - Mechanicsville, IA; Craig Bancroft - Coralville, IA; David Eck - Cedar Falls, IA; Patrick Wolfe - Altoona, IA; Dan Gallagher - Brainbridge Island, WA; Dale Collins - Ladson, SC; Alex Goedken - Kansas City, KS.

What does the state of Iowa have against Zultan?! Zultan’s mom lives in Iowa!

This week is the football equivalent of the black hole for clairvoyants, and you may think you have the right stuff to “Top Zultan.” Click here if you feel brave enough to aspire to out do the all-seeing seer.

Zultan feels compelled to quell the uprising he feels emerging from the Hawkeye State. Those inhabitants seem to have their own vision of the future, and Zultan cannot abide competition...fly away, Hawkeyes...

[This article is published on Sports Then and Now—sportsthenandnow.com]

Iowa Hawkeyes Reach a Perfect Seven/Eleven on the Year

J.A. Allen — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 11:09:16 -0400

Iowa defeated the Wisconsin Badgers on the road Saturday at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, 20-10. Prior to kickoff, Iowa fans were edgy and nervous. Sure, Iowa was 6-0, actually 10-0 since November of 2008.

But the Iowa faithful felt uncomfortable because all the betting lines were going with the Wisconsin Badgers, and money guys always seem to know what they are talking about. Of course, when you are offering free predictions to people foolish enough to bet money based on your advice, you can afford to be wrong.

Additionally, all the big-name commentators and football analysts kept bringing up the Hawkeyes’ close wins against Northern Iowa and Arkansas State. Have any of them taken a peek at Northern Iowa now ranked nationally at No. 2 in the FCS Top 25 Football Poll?

The faithful feel that the Northern Iowa Panthers could beat up on more than half of teams in the Big Ten. Iowa was lucky to get out of Dodge alive. The Hawkeyes simply refused to die on that first Saturday and the Panthers blinked twice real fast. Good teams know how to win when the fates close in.

Unlike fans of perennial winners like USC, Ohio State, Oklahoma, or Texas, to name a few, Iowa fans never expect anything, nor do they take anything for granted—just like the Iowa team itself and its talented coaches. We may not be first or have the best, but we work the hardest in Iowa and we are damn smart.

The Game

When the Badgers kicked off at 11 a.m. in the Midwest—it was time to settle in for the long haul. Brandon Wegher ran the kick off back 39 yards to the Iowa 42. So far so good.

Iowa started the contest with two successful passing attempts. Eventually, however, the Iowa drive stalled and the punting unit took the field. Early on, the Badger defense was suffocating and running the ball was difficult to near impossible.

The Badgers, behind the running of John Clay, were marching down the field as the first quarter ended. Fortunately for the Hawkeyes, they contained the march at the Iowa 18 and Wisconsin settled for a field goal off the toe of Phillip Welch. Wisconsin led 3-0 with just a couple of ticks off the clock in the second quarter.

After Iowa endured a three and out drive lasting a little over one minute, Wisconsin moved the ball in earnest on their next possession. Montee Ball rushed the final 10 yards for a Wisconsin touchdown.

After Phillip Welch added the point after, Wisconsin led 10-0. There were approximately eight minutes left in the half and Wisconsin would not score another point in the game as the Hawkeye defense began to stir to life.

At the same time, the offensive line stretched its impressive girth to offer up some protection and Ricky Stanzi, Iowa’s quarterback took those extra seconds to pinpoint targets down the field.

He zeroed in on Derrell Johnson-Koulianos for 34 yards, Wegher for three yards and Trey Stross for seven yards. In the end, the offense had to settle for a field goal in lieu of a touchdown that Daniel Murray provided booting the ball 37 yards.

The score remained 10-3 at halftime.

During Wisconsin’s first drive as the second half got underway, Amari Spievey intercepted a pass thrown by Wisconsin quarterback Scott Tolzien. The turnover gave the Iowa team the impetus to move the ball down the field.

Adam Robinson ground out 17 yards carrying the ball. Ultimately, it was a Stanzi pass to Tony Moeaki for 24 yards for a touchdown that brought the score to 10-10 after Daniel Murray’s extra point was good.

Wisconsin was forced to punt on their next drive. During Iowa’s subsequent possession Ricky Stanzi fumbled. Wisconsin took over the ball on the Iowa 25 yard line. After failing to move the ball, Wisconsin tried a field goal but Phillip Welch’s kick failed and the score remained deadlocked at 10-10 as the third quarter ended.

Iowa scored quickly at the start of the 4th quarter with Adam Robinson running it in from the 10 yard line. With Murray’s kick, Iowa went up 17-10 with a little over 13 minutes left on the clock.

After three and out for Wisconsin, Iowa had to settle for a field goal by Daniel Murray from 48 yards out on their next drive. Iowa went up 20-10. There was a little over five minutes left on the clock.

The Badgers were moving the ball at a clip when A.J. Edds intercepted a Tolzien pass on the Iowa 31 yard line. Iowa moved the ball down to the Wisconsin 15 yard line and turned it over on downs when Stanzi was sacked on a fourth down attempt.

Wisconsin took over the ball on their 20 yard line with 2:24 left on the game clock. On Wisconsin’s third play, Amari Spievey again intercepted a Tolzien pass on their 41 yard line.

At that point, Iowa was able to run out the clock.

The Results

On total yards, Iowa accumulated 283 to Wisconsin’s 230. But on passing yards, Iowa delivered 218 compared to Wisconsin’s 143. Wisconsin had three turnovers, Iowa just one.

For passing, Stanzi for Iowa was 17 for 23 and one TD. Wisconsin’s Tolzien was 15 for 25 with three interceptions.

Iowa’s Robinson rushed for 91 yards while Clay for Wisconsin produced 75. In passing yardage Johnson-Koulianos had 113 yards on 8 catches and Moeaki added 55 yards on three catches including one touchdown.

Once Iowa’s defense tightened up and shut down the running game, Wisconsin was done for the day. This happened as Stanzi warmed up to the environment and found his timing and his receivers.

It was not a perfect game—we don’t see many of those. It was enough to take Iowa to 7-0 on the season with an 11-game winning streak. Surely it is enough to secure a top 10 placement in the BCS rankings coming out on Sunday for the first time this season.

After the game according to Tony Moleaki, after learning of the upset of Ohio State by Purdue, “You really can’t look ahead...that could be us in any week.”

Iowa sits all alone undefeated atop the Big 10 Conference and finally someone should pay attention to the high-flying Hawkeyes. But, Iowa fans will still be nervous and edgy next weekend when we must go to East Lansing to play the ever-improving Michigan State Spartans on the road.

Johnson-Koulianos remarked after the game, “Once we figure out how to get it going in the first half, we’re going to be really dominant.”

When you are from Iowa you never expect anything and you never take anything for granted...especially when it comes to Iowa football...

Quotes from Andrew Logue at DesMoinesRegister.com

Golden Era of the '80s: Tennis Soars in Popularity

J.A. Allen — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 22:52:15 -0400

It was the best of times, tennis in the '80s, when the thrill of tense tiebreaks entered everyman’s domicile, highlighted by exotic locales like Paris, Melbourne, London, and New York.

The decade also ushered in exciting yet exasperating players whose on-court conduct thrilled, engaged, and enraged fans across the globe.

The '80s energized the popularity base, taking tennis out of country clubs and landed estates into public parks and arenas. It became a sport, in contrast to an amenable pastime.

The arrival of tennis on the world stage and its subsequent impact during the '80s and beyond is the subject of this article series, inspired and conceived by Rajat Jain.

J.A. Allen will write about how the '80s immensely helped in the popularization of the game. Leroy Watson will follow by discussing how tennis has changed since the '80s, and Clarabella Bevis will conclude the series discussing the role of media during the era.

Setting the Stage

On the men’s side of the game, after years of haggling over sponsorships and professional contracts the struggling players finally formed a union of their own that allowed them to be free agents.

At last players selected their own tournaments and guided their own destinies. Although there were some lingering entanglements, anxieties, and even resentments, male tennis players of the '80s could finally pour their energies into playing tennis, striving to win the Grand Slams and becoming world ranked No. 1!

Professional tennis for women does not have as extensive a history of controversy as the men’s game provides, but it was equally as fractious during the Open era, finally resolving itself into the formation of the WTA in 1973.

The elimination of the division of labor between amateurs and professionals allowed the best men and women to play tennis at all of the big events. It opened the game wide up and participation soared to new heights in the '80s.

The bigger the names, the bigger the games, and even more to the point, the larger the demand—televised coverage of the Grand Slams became a staple. And not just the finals but extended coverage of matches leading up to the finals.

It was a perfect storm of exposure, enthusiasm, and artistry, because the '80s opened up the floodgates and just look at who came pouring through...

The Men

The No. 1-ranked men’s player in 1980 was Bjorn Borg, who had been playing tennis since the age of 14. He was renowned for stunning good looks, long blond hair and mythical mystique. Borg alone brought hundreds of young men flocking to play the game because the Swede was a babe magnet, to use the '80s' vernacular, and they aspired to follow in his footsteps.

Borg was more physically fit than the tennis players of previous generations, and this factor was one of his main contributions to the men’s game in the '80s and beyond.

Borg’s main competitor was No. 2-ranked John McEnroe. Borg and McEnroe’s tightly contested matches drew huge crowds, record-breaking numbers of television viewers, and an unending demand for more.

McEnroe’s outrageous behavior, his serve, and his volley game laid waste to the staid and steady traditions of the past, blasted into orbit by McEnroe and his American contemporaries. The tennis world did not quite know how they felt about the red-faced, hot tempered—but extremely talented—American.

Borg won his fifth consecutive Wimbledon Championship in 1980 but lost the U.S. Open again. He won the French Open for the sixth time in 1981 but lost both Wimbledon and the U.S. Open.

Seemingly invincible, Borg burned bright then dimmed out completely in 1981, leaving the game shrouded in that same mystique that cloaked him throughout his career.

McEnroe reigned atop the tennis world in 1981, 1982, 1983, and 1984, holding the No. 1 ranking during each of these years. After Borg’s departure, McEnroe’s main competition came from the equally explosive and volatile Jimmy Connors, who had a dominating two-handed backhand, a blistering return of serve, and a willingness to die before giving in.

But there was a new brand of tennis being introduced and a new No. 1 being groomed—Ivan Lendl of Czechoslovakia. Lendl ushered in the era of power tennis that still survives today, utilizing heavy topspin and reliance on pure strength and accuracy—which is possible now with new racket technology.

His running forehand allowed him the choice of going down the line or cross-court. In that respect, his game was comparable to Borg, and like Borg, the Czech was physically fit. It took Lendl some time to grow into his game and achieve success, but once he won that first major by defeating the serve-and-volleyer John McEnroe at the French Open in 1984, Lendl never looked back.

Lendl was the No. 1 player in 1985, 1986, 1987, and 1989. His only interruption came at the hand of Mats Wilander, who knocked him off his perch temporarily in 1988.

Following in McEnroe’s shoes were other serve-and-volleyers who generally made their mark at Wimbledon, a tournament Lendl could never win—nor any of the tournaments on hard courts. Serve-and-volley players never fared well on red clay.

Boris Becker won Wimbledon at age 17 in 1985 as an unseeded player with his Boom-Boom serve, net play, and heavy forehand. His reign at No. 1 was measured in weeks, as Becker always sat just behind Lendl in the rankings.

In addition to Becker, Swede Stefan Edberg was ranked No. 1 in the early '90s. Breaking into the top 10 in 1985, Edberg had the most beautiful-to-behold serve-and-volley game accelerated by an impeccable kick serve.

The roll call for serve-and-volley players who graced the grass in the '80s when their game reigned supreme extends to include Pat Cash and Henri Leconte. There were other gifted athletes like Yannick Noah, whose pure athleticism set them apart.

Basically, the '80s were divided ito baseliners—headed by Lendl and Wilander—and serve-and-volleyers, led early by McEnroe, and later by Becker and Edberg. The game was changing because of the equipment evolved, and players were becoming more physically fit, stronger, and more imposing.

On the horizon, the baseliners saw new Americans emerging—Andre Agassi and Michael Chang. The '90s would see the emergence of perhaps the best serve-and-volley player of all time, Pete Sampras, who had been paying attention to the fortunes of players like Boris Becker and Stefan Edberg, and thought he would give their game a whirl...

The Ladies

The '80s, dominated by Chris Evert, Martina Navratilova, and Steffi Graf saw the rise of newcomer Monica Seles blow the lid off their carefully constructed game as the '90s rolled into view.

To equate them to their male counterparts: Chris Evert dominated on clay like Borg with a carefully crafted and extremely accurate game. She was rigorously fit and quietly determined with an iron will equal to ice-man Borg’s on any given day.

Evert won 18 Grand Slam singles titles on all surfaces, but was most proficient on clay where she won a record 125 consecutive matches on the surface. One imagines that, had Borg extended his playing life, his record on clay might have equalled the “Ice Maiden’s.”

Martina Navratalova’s rise equalled John McEnroe’s with her prowess as a serve-and-volley player. Once Navratilova became fully fit and adopted a graphite racket, the former Czech player became perhaps the greatest player in the history of the game, man or woman.

Her battles with Evert were as monumental in their way as the Borg-McEnroe matches—except the ladies' matches went on for years. Navratilova dominated on grass, winning nine Grand Slam titles at Wimbledon.

Like McEnroe, Navratalova also had a superior doubles game and won 31 Grand Slam doubles titles. Navratalova was the No. 1-ranked player from 1982-1986.

Her reign at the top was interrupted when a 17-year-old German named Steffi Graf appeared on the scene. Much like Ivan Lendl’s appearance, Graf’s game focused on power, countering the effectiveness of the serve and volley play.

Graf had an amazing inside-out forehand that became her weapon of choice as well as tremendous foot-speed. Her serve, angles, and mental strength combined to make her one of the greatest athletes ever to play the game of tennis, winning 22 Grand Slam singles titles—the most of any man or woman except Margaret Court, who won 24.

As Graf rose to No. 1 in 1987, 1988, and 1989, Navratilova fell to No. 2. Graf remained the No. 1-ranked player for 377 weeks by the WTA, the longest of any player—man or woman—since tennis professionals began ranking players.

As the '80s began to fade, a new player from Yugoslavia named Monica Seles brought new firepower and aggression to the women’s game. Change was becoming the order of the day.

On the men’s side, along with Andre Agassi and Michael Chang, newcomers Jim Courier and Pete Sampras were beginning their new tennis careers aided by fantastic new technology and unlimited boundaries.

In the '80s, because of increased television coverage, new technology, exciting and controversial players, and unending opportunities, tennis exploded in popularity.

The era ended as serve-and-volley play began its inevitable death march and power tennis began to dominate...Stay tuned as Leroy discusses how tennis continued to change in the '90s and beyond.

Zultan's Fearless College Football Predictions: Week Seven

J.A. Allen — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 21:35:50 -0400

Zultan the magnificent almost achieved nirvana this past weekend, only missing the objective because the Aggies failed to live up to their promise to shoot down the Cowboys.

Texas A&M came so close—but failed in the end. The Oklahoma State Cowboys managed to circle the wagons and hold off the ensuing attack by the retro rural ones...Zultan never forgives these disappointments.

I was told by my exalted group leader that two persons actually achieved perfection on the day, picking them all right. They must have offered more than the penny-pinching Zultan can afford. Such is the fate of poverty-stricken fortune tellers—no grease for the wheel when you need it.

Zultan was 9-for-10, or 90 percent if you failed math. On the season, the all-seeing one climbs to 40-of-51, or 78 percent, to date.

This week is the real test—the extreme challenge—the "make 'em or break 'em" Saturday. Is this the week you feel lucky? Well do ya? Lucky enough to pit your puny predicting powers against Zultan—Big Ten Seer for the Ages?

Time to step up and take a whirl...

(1) Delaware State at Michigan

Does anyone besides Zultan wonder at the wisdom of this matchup? What can be gained by either team by playing this game?

The Wolverines would be as severely taxed playing their "B" squad. The perplexed seer means nothing disrespectful to the Delaware State Hornets, but they currently stand 1-3 with their only win to date against the Hampton Pirates.

This may be a very fine football team—but their only reason to take on the Michigan Wolverines in Ann Arbor is financial. The Wolverines can pad their stats by playing this game, much as Penn State does, and all the Big Ten, for that matter.

Ah, Zultan must get off his soap box and deal with harsh realities—the Wolverines squash the Hornets without getting stung once in the process!

(2) No. 11 Iowa at Wisconsin

Zultan was cursed and spat upon for picking Penn State over Iowa—and this was by his dear mother!

This week, the mighty one knows better than to incur the wrath of almighty Mom by picking the Badgers. Wisconsin tends to eek by in its backyard, counting on the home field aura to carry the team over the top. The high-flying Hawkeyes, however, should fear the Badgers because knocking off Iowa would make their season.

Iowa is the first Big Ten team to become bowl eligible and it remains among a handful of undefeated teams in the nation. In the final analysis, Hawkeyes soar even higher than buck-toothed lumber jacks.

Iowa will stay undefeated on the road by beating the Wisconsin Badgers in Camp Randall.

(3) Northwestern at Michigan State

Northwestern hung on to defeat Miami of Ohio at home last weekend, 16-6. This Wildcat team exemplifies inconsistency from game to game—and even within games.

They appeared a bit bored with their competition last Saturday and didn't sustain many lasting drives on offense. Michigan State, on the other hand, has won its last two conference games, including an overtime victory over archrival Michigan as well as ruining Illinois’ homecoming by defeating the Illini, 24-14.

The Spartans are rising from the ashes after suffering defeats early in the season. Expect the Spartans to win this one at home.

(4) No. 7 Ohio State at Purdue

Zultan likes this Purdue team even though it cannot win a football game to save its soul. The Boilermakers make good—even great—plays, then throw it all away on turnovers and miscues. It is a painful team to watch. Zultan does expect it to grow and mature into the talent it has.

Ohio State looked awful last week but it seems the press was not looking. The Badgers gifted the Buckeyes the win on Saturday, and who would not accept such a gift! Purdue will not wrap this one in foil—but the Boilermakers will find a way to lose the game at home to the Buckeyes.

(5) Minnesota at No. 14 Penn State

Penn State should beat the Gophers at home in Happy Valley. The Gophers have suffered with inconsistent play this season; they have looked good and they have looked abysmal on the year.

The lack of defense will really hurt the Gophers this week, and the Minnesota offense will be contained by the Penn State defense.

While Penn State has not proven itself yet this season, the Nittany Lions will win this one at home and send the Gophers back to Minnesota empty-handed.

(6) Illinois at Indiana

Wow—what can the soothsayer say about this contest for the bottom-dwellers?

Indiana has shown more football prowess this season than Illinois. But Zultan keeps expecting Illinois to stand up and be counted. When will it do this, or has it gone into an inevitable downward spiral?

Zultan senses a desperate attempt from the Illinois coaching staff to save its jobs. Zultan shrugs but must go with the Hoosiers to upend the Illini again this coming weekend.

(7) No. 20 Oklahoma at No. 3 Texas

They call this one the Red River Shootout, and no one is willing to lay his life on the line as the reward for picking a winner in this contest. Zultan, however, is not afraid of making his selection in this game of all games in the Big 12 South.

The oddsmakers point out that this game will be held on a neutral field in Dallas—site of the Cotton Bowl. Zultan says phooey to this—it will still be played in Texas, right?

The Longhorns only managed 46 rushing yards against Colorado—that means a lot of pressure to pass on Colt McCoy. Do you think the Sooners will figure that out?

Zultan does—he picks the Oklahoma Sooners to begin their climb back by taking out the Texas Longhorns on Saturday. Oh, Momma—did you like that one?!

(8) No. 6 USC at No. 25 Notre Dame

Let us pray and remember that to forgive is divine—all you Charlie Weis haters, give it up.

So Notre Dame has lost seven in a row to USC; so Notre Dame has not lived up to its promise; has ever a team been held to such high expectations? Zultan advises you Notre Dame fans to be prepared to be sorry on Sunday. Notre Dame loses again at home in South Bend.

(9) No. 22 South Carolina at No. 2 Alabama

Roll Tide! They will do that for sure as they face a very good South Carolina Gamecock team on Saturday. Not only are the No. 2 Alabama Crimson Tide a better team, they are meeting the No. 22-ranked Gamecocks on their home field as this week the Tide return to the confines of Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa.

Why does Zultan keep visualizing a “bear” in the crystal ball? Alabama will win this one at home.

(10) No. 4 Virginia Tech at No. 19 Georgia Tech

The last time Zultan considered the Virginia Tech Hokies, he picked the Miami Hurricanes to beat them at home. Zultan was disappointed in the Canes, who could not take a little rain!

Picking against the at-home team always makes the all-seeing one nervous, edgy...suicidal, even! But, Zultan will not bet against the Hokies this week—he picks Virginia Tech to edge the Yellow Jackets and win on the road.

Last week two football fanatics were better than Zultan—picking 10 for 10: Craig Bancroft from Coralville, Iowa, and Ryan Tyas, who chose not to share his whereabouts with the bonded seer. Should Ryan wish to be eligible for the Best Buy gift card, he might reconsider his silence.

This week may seem to offer many opportunities to “Top Zultan.” Click here if you feel inspired to try to outguess the clairvoyant one. Ah, Zultan feels sensation returning to his extremities as he awakens from his mid-afternoon trance...he has spoken his last until next week...

[This article featured on Sports Then and Now]

Amelie Mauresmo: Leaving Tennis Behind?

J.A. Allen — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 16:21:11 -0400

Headlines whispered earlier this week that Frenchwoman Amelie Mauresmo was considering retirement from tennis. At the age of 30, it may seem that Mauresmo has been around forever. She has, in fact, been playing tennis professionally for 16 years.

According to Peter Scrivener's BBC report, Mauresmo stated "Since the U.S. Open, I’ve been trying to practice but I can’t seem to find the desire to come back to competition...I don’t want to rush or force things. I will take some time to think before making a decision regarding the remainder of my career."

It is not the first time that Mauresmo has used the press to announce her intention or a change in her life.

Although it raised a few eyebrows and created a stir in the locker room, Mauresmo’s admission in 1999 that she is a lesbian brought another kind of pressure to bear on the young woman—then aged 19.

The fact that Martina Hingis called her “half a man” and Lindsay Davenport actually stated that she felt Mauresmo played like a man were remarks dismissed by the young Frenchwoman. She felt that coming out enabled her to be successful on the tennis court—this according to Kathy Beige, About.com.

Amelie Mauresmo was born in Laye, France on July 5, 1979. According to all the sources, little Amelie watched Yannick Noah win the 1983 French Open and fell in love with the game of tennis. She asked for and received a tennis racket from her parents and began to develop her natural talent.

More than most women on tour, Mauresmo is an exceptionally talented athlete. She moves effortlessly, covers the court with speed and agility, engaging with finesse and touch as well as power. She is renowned for her one-handed backhand and her net play.

Like many players with great natural ability, Mauresmo did not have the career her talent dictated. She seemed to fall short during the big matches much like Hana Mandlikova did in the '80s and Dinara Safina does currently.

During the big moments her courage and her will faded as nerves overcame her natural instincts causing her to falter at the finish line.

Mauresmo did play fine tennis during most matches. As testament to that fact, Mauresmo rose to the No. 1 ranking in 2004, which also saw her win a silver medal for France during the Summer Olympics.

For Mauresmo, the dominant backhand stroke was both a curse and a blessing. It was by far the best shot in her arsenal, but every one of her opponents realized that and either did not allow her to use it or prepared for it, knowing it was Mauresmo’s weapon of choice.

As she moved into her best years from late 2003 through 2006, the Frenchwoman learned to utilize her forehand, making it more dependable and giving her the opportunity to employ the backhand when it best suited her game.

By being more selective with that shot, Mauresmo’s entire game became stronger. If her backhand misfired, she had someplace else to go, some other shot to depend on when needed.

One of the other facets of her game Mauresmo improved enabling her to reach the top of the women’s game dealt with her tendency to stand back behind the baseline. True, Mauresmo grew up playing on clay—and clay-ballers tend to employ that stance.

But Mauresmo had tremendous ability to volley and play well at the net. By advancing close to the baseline and moving forward, the Frenchwoman was able to develop that net play skill and integrate it into her game. It gave her more opportunity to be aggressive and take over rallies quicker.

In 2006, she won the Australian Open and the Wimbledon Championship, both times upending Justine Henin. On March 20, 2006, Mauresmo briefly regained the No. 1 ranking and held it for most of the remainder of that year.

Illness and injury kept Mauresmo sidelined during 2007, and she dropped out of the top five, where she had been a staple since November of 2003. Being ill and injured, she could not maintain her training regimen, leaving her unfit and unable to compete.

She opened 2008 struggling to regain her form. In the end, she never quite managed to overcome lingering injuries. In September, she split with her coach, Loic Courteau. She ended the year ranked 24th without ever gaining back her edge on the court.

It appeared that 2009 was going to be different—different than 2008, in any case. Mauresmo won her first tournament by defeating Elena Dementieva in the finals of the Open GDF Suez Tournament in Paris. It was to be her last tournament win of the year.

The Frenchwoman competed well to the middle of events, no longer even making it to the finals. She announced her decision to consider her retirement on Oct. 8, 2009.

Should Mauresmo retire from the game, it would mean one less woman playing comfortably at the net. While not regarded strictly as a serve-and-volley player, one of Mauresmo’s core strengths was her net play.

Her natural athletic ability allowed her to succeed there where many of the current top players could not. Serve-and-volley players will fade into the past until someone figures out how to counter the obvious advantage of staying back. It is one of the most interesting of tennis cycles.

Mauresmo will make her decision before the resumption of 2010 tennis activities as to whether she will continue to play tennis. But such a momentous decision need not be final...just ask Justine Henin.

Iowa Hawkeyes: Perfect in Prime Time

J.A. Allen — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 12:03:32 -0400

After waiting all day, the Iowa faithful piled into the stands or gathered in front of their televisions to watch the nationally broadcast game of the week in prime time from Kinnick Stadium as the No. 12 Iowa Hawkeyes faced the Michigan Wolverines—kickoff at 7:05 p.m. CT.

First Quarter

THE GAME didn't exactly get off on the right foot as Iowa received the kick off from Michigan. Even with all the hype and glitz, on the second play from scrimmage, Iowa quarterback Ricky Stanzi was intercepted by Donovan Warren, who returned the ball 40 yards for a Michigan touchdown—starting the contest with dismal consequences for the Hawkeyes.

The Iowa crowd sat dumbfounded, subdued by the turn of events. They could sense it was going to be one of “those” games. By that they understood that the game would be tense and close at home. This proved to be exactly the way it unfolded.

Within 46 seconds Michigan led 7-0. Unfortunately, Brent Musberger seemed stuck on calling that ill-fated interception a “pick six” all night. Whew...

After that first false step—Iowa seemed to settle down and began to move the ball mixing running and passing plays. On a 3rd-and-12, Stanzi threw to Tony Moeaki for a 34-yard gain ending in Iowa’s first touchdown. It was greeted with sighs of relief as well as a huge ovation from the assembled masses.

In the process, the Hawks exposed the weak secondary defense of the Michigan Wolverines. Daniel Murray put through the PAT to make it 7-7. The entire drive covered 57 yards in nine plays, eating up about five minutes on the clock.

Finally, with about nine minutes left in the first quarter, Michigan’s quarterback Tate Forcier got into the game. At 3rd-and-10, a Forcier pass was picked off by Jeremiah Hunter on the Michigan 35 yard line and returned to the Michigan 19.

Iowa was deep in Michigan territory, but Stanzi failed to connect with Marvin McNutt on a third down pass. Daniel Murray kicked a 28 yard field goal, making the score 10-7 in favor of the Hawkeyes.

Michigan’s next possession was impressive as the Wolverines marched down the field. Forcier showed his versatility by scrambling for needed yardage in tense moments, becoming the Energizer Bunny with improvisational skills. The 72-yard drive ended with Brandon Minor powering it in for the touchdown.

This was the first rushing touchdown scored against the stalwart Iowa defense in 33 quarters. The score now stood at 14-10 in Michigan’s favor as the first quarter ended.

It was indeed turning out to be one of “those” games. The Iowa faithful continued to stir restlessly in the stands and in their easy chairs, waiting for the Hawkeyes to seize this game by the throat.

Second Quarter

In the second quarter after the Hawkeyes were forced to punt, the Iowa defense capitalized by seizing a fumble. But the Iowa drive stalled and once again Daniel Murray trotted onto the field to put through another perfect field goal, this one for 41 yards. The score now stood at 14-13 in Michigan’s favor.

With about 10 minutes left in the second quarter, Iowa began a long drive which appeared to be stalled out on the Iowa 45, standing 3rd-and-24. But Stanzi delivered to Derrell Johnson-Koulianos for a 47-yard pass completion—moving the ball down to
the Michigan eight yard line.

Brandon Wegher scored bouncing over the top and with the PAT Iowa now led 20-14. The crowd erupted and became one of many negatives the Michigan Wolverines had to face in this tightly fought contest.

The rest of the quarter remained scoreless as Iowa ended the half on a failed 53-yard field goal attempt by Murray.

Third Quarter

Iowa kicked off to Michigan to start the third quarter, regaining possession after Michigan was forced to punt. The resulting 63-yard drive ended with another Murray field goal. That score put Iowa up 23-14.

Murray was getting a good work-out as the Hawkeye offense made huge gains, but often stalled deep in Michigan territory.

After trading punts, Michigan began a drive with about 8:30 left in the quarter. After ten plays extending 57 yards, Brandon Minor scored on a one-yard burst and with the PAT, Michigan pulled to within two—Iowa 23, Michigan 21.

Iowa fans understood by now that it was going to be close—very close. Iowa was moving the ball down field as the third quarter ended.

Fourth Quarter

As the fourth quarter began, Iowa tried to punch it into the end zone on fourth down from the Michigan one yard line and failed.

Michigan took over on downs at that spot on the field. The thinking from Iowa’s coaching staff was obviously that if the offense couldn’t score deep in Michigan territory, the defense would do it.

Michigan got pasted, pinned like a insect on their one, but their punter saved them by blasting a 61-yard punt which Colin Sandman returned 20 yards to the Michigan 42.

From there Stanzi found Tony Moeaki in the open throwing a 42-yard completion for a touchdown. The point after made the score 30-21 in Iowa’s favor.

After trading punts, Michigan began a drive with about eight minutes left in the game. Tate Forcier had been yanked and Denard Robinson, another freshman, was now orchestrating the Michigan offense.

What is more, he was moving the ball and running well. A more natural athlete than Forcier, Robinson was catching the defense flat-footed, not reacting fast enough to contain the fresh quarterback.

Robinson rushed for 42 yards during a 59-yard drive, finally scampering into the end zone for the touchdown. With the point after, Michigan closed to with two points, 30-28. There was a little over three minutes left in the game.

Iowa Coach Kirk Ferentz immediately called a time out, suspecting on onside kick. He was right and Michigan tried it but kicked it out of bounds suffering a five yard penalty.

All Iowa had to do was make a first down and retain possession.

With 3:16 left on the clock and sitting on the Michigan 45-yard line, Iowa’s offense understood the challenge. But Michigan’s defense had another scenario in mind.

They forced Iowa to punt. With one time out and 1:30 left on the clock, Robinson began unraveling under the pressure of an Iowa defense determined not to lose this one.

On the third play from scrimmage, Robinson’s pass down field was intercepted by Brett Greenwood on the Michigan 41-yard line and Iowa was able to run out the clock and savor another victory—another close one at home.

Curtain Call

In the end, Stanzi made up for his poor start by passing for 284 yards and two touchdowns. Tony Moeaki gained 105 yards on five receptions, two for touchdowns. Adding to the total Adam Robinson gained 70 yards on the ground on 10 carries. His longest run from scrimmage was 19 yards.

Iowa’s defense was suffocating and deadly down the stretch, squelching any sustained offensive drive for most of the game.

Iowa begins the 2009 campaign 6-0 extending their winning streak to 10. The Hawkeyes have not been 6-0 since 1985. It bodes well that the Iowa team still sees plenty of room for improvement in their game.

Iowa goes 2-0 in Big Ten play.

But the Hawkeyes must pack their bags and head off to Camp Randall to face the Wisconsin Badgers next weekend, followed by a trip to East Lansing to face the Michigan State Spartans in two weeks.

Football fortunes offer nothing easy for the Iowa team in the next two weeks.

Michigan suffered with five turnovers that cost them big time. They fall to 1-2 in Big Ten play, 4-2 overall. Michigan can regroup next week as they meet lowly Delaware State at home. Penn State comes calling in two weeks and the Wolverines have some improvements to implement.

Iowa continues to shine in prime time...

Bjorn Borg: The Beginning of the End, Pt. 3

J.A. Allen — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 12:00:02 -0400

The Iceman Melts Away...

It was like being evicted from your neighborhood playground where you practiced ball all of your life, where you reigned as King of the Mountain, swatting down the little kids who scrabbled toward you to reach the top. That is what Bjorn Borg felt like after being dethroned during the trophy presentation at the conclusion of Wimbledon in 1981.

This new kid, this John McEnroe, was taking away his perch and making him feel ordinary. So what do you do when someone invades your kingdom and steals your crown? You storm his castle and try to take what belongs to him—tit for tat or an eye for an eye.

This, according to Lesley Visser of The Boston Globe (Sept. 1, 1981), caused Bjorn Borg to declare that winning the U.S. Open was his greatest passion—which he had been trying unsuccessfully to accomplish since he was 16 years of age.

At the time he uttered this fateful sentiment, Borg was 25 years of age and had been playing professional tennis for 11 years, since the age of 14.

Coming into the U.S. Open ranked No. 2, the rumor mills were buzzing. Many players whispered that Borg was finished, generally blaming his marriage. How typically male to always blame the woman for the man's downfall.

At this point in time, Borg and McEnroe had met 13 times, with Borg barely holding the edge at 7-6. Within those matches, however, Borg and McEnroe each had won 20 of the 40 sets played.

But it was in New York where the American out glowed the Swede. At the U.S. Open, McEnroe, 22 of 24, had only lost twice, while Borg stood at 34-9.

The Tournament

Borg took the first step in his Herculean task of winning his first U.S. Open in 1981 by playing and defeating Swiss Marcus Gunthardt. Borg followed that by defeating David Carter of Australia to reach the round of 16.

So far, so good on his noble quest to seek the one jewel not cemented onto his legendary crown.

Later edging his way into the quarterfinals, Borg took out Yannick Noah, 6-7, 6-4, 6-3, 6-3. Borg would next face big serving American slugger Roscoe Tanner. Tanner always gave Borg fits at the Open.

After quietly disposing of Tanner in the quarters, Borg readied himself to face another traditional foe in the form of Jimmy Connors. Connors overcame Eliot Teltscher to reach the semifinals.

The other semifinal would see John McEnroe square off against fellow American Vitas Gerulaitis. The New York crowd would love the matchups which featured three Americans out of four.

Inevitably, the dream match became reality and U.S. Open fans were delighted at the prospect of witnessing the two greatest tennis players on the planet face each other once again in another monumental showdown.

After being 0-9 would this finally be the year that Borg would conquer his demons and win the Open? That’s the thing about demons, however, they cannot often be denied their devious intent.

Borg might have pulled it off if he did not have to face McEnroe, who had owned this tournament for the past two years, hoping to make it three championships in a row. McEnroe would become the first man since Bill Tilden in the 1920s to win three consecutive U.S. Open titles.

The Match

The inevitable match lacked something in the end. It lacked the fiery determination and calm demeanor of the coolest Swede ever to wield a tennis racket.

The traditionally confident Borg quickly faded from view as McEnroe established his superiority early in the match. The brash American had an answer for everything the Swede threw at him. It seemed McEnroe could even read Borg's mind.

In the first set, however, Borg delivered 72 percent of his first serves while McEnroe managed only 48 percent. Borg broke McEnroe at love in the seventh game and went on to take the opening set.

But after that sterling first set, Borg only managed 40 of 81 first serves—hardly the quality that was going to keep McEnroe at bay. Once Borg's serve began to fade, so did his resolve and he appeared strangely absent from the proceedings as the match wore on.

In the second, serving at 2-5, Borg doubled-faulted twice to lose the set. In fact, Borg tossed in seven double faults in the match.

McEnroe was playing the match of his life, well-behaved with his temper totally under control. But it was the breadth of his game, the total gamut of his shots that took the life and the legs out from under the Swede that was so astonishing in this contest.

Take the eighth game of the third set, for example. Borg had broken McEnroe's serve and led 3-2, holding his own serve to go up 4-2. McEnroe then held serve—taking the set to 4-3. Borg was serving to go up 5-3.

On a Borg second serve, McEnroe hit a deliberate backhand cross-court pass for a winner. Then Borg evened it to 15-15 when McEnroe hit a forehand wide. Borg decided to infuse aggression into his game to combat the McEnroe attack.

Borg hit the ball then rushed to the net. To counter, McEnroe tossed in a delicate forehand topspin lob and Borg was unable to get to it. It was now 15-30.

Borg moved in again after his serve and this time McEnroe blew it past him with a backhand cross court with immaculate touch. On break point, the American spun another lob over Borg's head.

Borg's features sagged a bit after being run ragged by McEnroe. The American held serve and then broke Borg in the 10th game to take the third set.

Finally, the inevitable pressure came to bear on the mighty Swede. Pressure that normally Borg exuded just standing on the other side of the net came down full force on the Swede who could not brush it aside or retaliate.

The left-handed McEnroe with his high-kicking serve pierced the Borg reserves and left him defenseless against an unending assault.

As Borg's spirits sank, McEnroe's soared, sensing he could do nothing wrong—he was in the zone. Borg never totally arrived in the fourth set, although he remained alive long enough to break back once.

Essentially the match was finished once the eighth game in the third set was over. That game broke Borg's spirit and his faith in his ability to win. Once confidence is lacking and you begin second guessing yourself, you can kiss victory goodbye 99 percent of the time.

In the end, McEnroe won the 1981 U.S. Open, 4-6, 6-2, 6-4, 6-3.

Then things got really bizarre.

The End...

Borg left the court and did not return. McEnroe was hugging his parents and accepting the polite applause of the New York crowd who really pulled for Borg to win this one.

They had nothing against the American, but they wanted Borg to have the U.S. Open as part of his resume.

For Borg, he just wanted out—out of Flushing Meadows, out of Queens, out of New York, out the the U.S., and, although he did not realize it at the moment, out of tennis for good.

The idea of accepting that little runner-up trophy and standing around while McEnroe pranced for the television audience and the crowd was too much for Borg to witness, let alone be part of—as the main residue of the ceremony.

Borg showered quickly and sneaked out the kitchen with the press following in hot pursuit. The enigmatic, tight-lipped Swede said nothing—just faded out of sight in the back of a Volvo station wagon.

There was talk of death threats and Queen’s Task Force operatives as escorts.

But the real tragedy of this final was the death of Borg’s illustrious tennis career. With 11 majors, including six French Open championships and five Wimbledon titles, Borg was finished.

He had nothing left to give. His confidence was gone, as was his will to change and work harder.

He was the fittest man on tour, but he could read the writing on the wall as newcomers like McEnroe and Ivan Lendl began to better and best him on the court.

All of your life you have been taught how to win. What do you do after you have been beaten and know you will never be the best again?

For Bjorn Borg, the answer was obvious. You leave the game and try something else.

Tennis was never quite the same without the Swede...believe me...