Bleacher Report - Articles by Scott Pauley

West Virginia-Texas A&M: Devin Ebanks "I'm Back Baby, I'm Back"

Scott Pauley — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 12:13:50 -0500

The Mountaineers of West Virginia played three games without starting forward Devin Ebanks. Ebanks is touted as the best player on the team, in many cases.

Well, on Friday, Ebanks finally got the call.

The Mountaineers—amidst the 76 Classic in Anaheim—were taking on the Aggies of Texas A&M, in the semifinal round of the early season tournament.

With only a few ticks missing from the clock, Ebanks got the nod from head coach Bob Huggins.

The sophomore forward had been missed by the court and the fans.

One is easily reminded why being a Mountaineers fan is so rewarding, when after his first shot was good, Ebanks looked at his teammates with a big smile and said, “I’m back baby, I’m back…”

After dealing with undisclosed “personal problems” and missing the first three games, Ebanks is finally able to help his team to a 73-66 victory over Texas A&M.

Ebanks, of course, is not the only player on the WVU squad that is to be commended.

We can’t leave out Joe Mazzulla, Wellington Smith, Da’Sean Butler, Kevin Jones, and Dalton Pepper, among a host of other great players on the bench.

This year’s Mountaineer team has got to be the best and deepest team I have seen in my short span of 34 years.

Like everyone else, I expected to see Mazzulla, Butler, Ebanks, Smith, and Truck Bryant lead WVU to many victories this season.

However, I had no idea about the secret arsenal that Huggins had stored up on the bench.

We have seen unknowns like Dalton Pepper, Cam Payne, Casey Mitchell, and Danny Jennings emerge as great ball players in their own rights.

Who knew that WVU would have the depth on the bench that runs so deep?

Including redshirt junior, and son of the great Jerry West , Jonnie West who really used the off-season to freshen his skills.

Though he never really left, Devin Ebanks is back.

However, I am quite sure that the Mountaineers have the talent that can fill in anytime a great player like Ebanks cannot play.

Welcome back Devin Ebanks and say hello to the rest of your team.

West Virginia-Pitt: Bad Calls, Bad Commentators, Bad News for the Panthers

Scott Pauley — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 23:27:06 -0500

Unfortunately, it is quite impossible these days to complete a full college football game without a missed call or bad call from the officiating crew.

It is also growing more common for ESPN commentators to not know what they are doing.

To get to the point:

There were several missed calls in the 2009 edition of the Backyard Brawl.

There were missed holding penalties, interference penalties, and a host of other misses. Not to mention the terrible ball-spot that WVU got near the end of the game that nearly cost them the first down.

These calls were not necessarily one sided, but West Virginia—of course— got the short end of the stick since they were not in the BCS picture.

Though it didn’t stop the Mountaineers from knocking off the No. 9 Pitt Panthers, 19-16.

To continue my gratitudiful disposition:

Bob Davie is quite possibly the most ignorant college football commentator I have ever heard.

Someone needs to inform him that Larry Fitzgerald has been out of college football for six years. Why did he mention the Arizona Cardinal wide receiver at least five times?

Name dropper!

Would someone also let him in on the little secret about the departure of Rich Rodriguez from WVU? Again, at least five mentions! No one cares anymore!

We all know that Bobbie made his coaching debut with Pitt. However, we don’t care about that when you are a mere analyst on the tube—remind you of any other former Notre Dame coach that works for ESPN?

All of that has come to be expected, considering the way that television has taken over college football—a lot of games to cover and not enough commentators.

Nonetheless, Mr. Davie, you cannot go into Morgantown and call John Denver’s “Country Roads,” “Rocky Mountain High.”

I hear the Big East is looking for some good officials.

I think Bob Davie would fit right in—not knowing what in the world is going on.

West Virginia vs. Pitt: Panther Fans Turn Down Tickets To The Backyard Brawl

Scott Pauley — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 20:12:16 -0500

When the Mountaineers of West Virginia have needed it most, they didn’t get it.

However, whether it decides a berth in the National Championship game, a Big East title, or simply bragging rights, the Backyard Brawl is one of the most important football games for the Mountaineers and the Panthers of Pittsburgh.

The Backyard Brawl is the term that has been pinned to the annual football game between the two schools, due to the close proximity of the campuses—WVU is located about 70 miles south of the University of Pittsburgh.

It is one of the oldest rivaly games in college football history.

In recent years the term has been used to refer to the annual basketball games between the rivals.

While the Brawl is probably more important to the locals and perhaps fans of the Big East than others, it draws a national audience each time it is played.

One can expect to find the Backyard Brawl on at least one major television network, late in the season.

WVU and Pitt have met 101 times in football and 178 times in basketball. While WVU holds the series lead and the largest margin of victory on the basketball side of the Brawl, Pitt holds those records in the football series.

Interestingly, since the football series began, the Mountaineers have won more games in Pittsburgh than in Morgantown.

In the 2007 edition of the Backyard Brawl, West Virginia had everything to lose and Pitt had nothing to gain, as far as the 2007-08 season was concerned.

Hailed as the most important Brawl in history, the 2007 showdown saw the Panthers blatantly ruin a trip to the National Championship and an outright Big East title for WVU, by winning the game 13-9.

Pitt won again in 2008 at Heinz field in Pittsburgh.

The 2009 Backyard Brawl will be played in Morgantown, WV on Nov. 27, which happens to also be the biggest shopping day of the year.

Apparently the fans of the Panthers would rather go shopping.

Pitt was unable to sell all of the tickets that were allotted to the school for Panthers fans. This strikes me as odd.

Pitt comes into the game with a 9-1 record, a top 10 national ranking, and a Big East title on the line. Why would the fans not want to be part of this year’s Backyard Brawl?

Does this show the degree of acceptance that Dave Wannstedt has gained since becoming head coach?

Does this indicate the amount of respect the team has?

Does this, in fact, display how important this rivalry really is?

Though Brawl history shows that WVU has more wins on the road vs. Pitt, will the Mountaineers pull out a blatant defeat of their own?

Will the old gold and blue clad faithful have their revenge for the 2007 game?

The 2009 Backyard Brawl, Nov. 27, 2009 on ESPN2.

Be there!!!! (Or if you’re a Pitt fan, don’t be there.)

Finally No. 1: West Virginia Proud...Uh Er Not?

Scott Pauley — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:32:40 -0500

The West Virginia Mountaineers have finally received the credit they deserve.

Unfortunately, it’s not quite the look I was going for.

According to SI.Com —Sports Illustrated online—the fans in West Virginia have been voted No. 1, when it comes to the rudest fans at a home game.

I am not so sure that I can agree with that. What I can agree with is the fact that the student section—Mountaineer Maniacs—can get a little out of hand.

However, even the Maniacs do quite well at showing hospitality during the actual game.

I have never seen the Old Gold clad youngsters—in recent years—disrespect the visiting team nor its’ fans, during the respective, collective activities.

Allow me to refer to a recent column of mine dated Oct. 25, 2009, “UConn: Welcome to Wild, Wonderful, Well-Mannered West Virginia—The Fans.”

Now this is just a smidgen of the entire article that I wrote exclaiming my appreciation of the WVU fans—including the Mountaineer Maniacs.

" …I have never been as proud—of all of the Mountaineer fans—as I am, following the game in Morgantown on Oct. 24, 2009. The visiting UConn Huskies had just lost their star corner back, Jasper Howard, to a violent incident the prior Saturday.

"After a record-setting victory performance against Louisville, Howard was stabbed to death, following a Homecoming Dance on the UConn campus.The UConn team and fans came to Milan Puskar Stadium with more than heavy hearts—having not even laid to rest the body of their fallen teammate, friend, and brother. The Mountaineer fans, including the student section—Mountaineer Maniacs—were more than affable…"

I don’t know who was included in the voting for the SI.com. It was apparently “fans” from various schools and conferences.

I did not get asked to vote. I did not even know this poll was taking place.

Many folks may say that there is no bad publicity. I can agree to a certain extent.

However, when the publicity is negative toward the Mountaineer Faithful, it hurts.

For, I am one.

I did not play any sports for WVU so; I cannot take credit for contributing to the major success of the football team. Nor can I take credit for a trip to the “Elite Eight”.

As a matter of fact, I did not attend WVU so; I cannot take credit for helping gain the title of No. 1 party school, either—on more than one occasion.

Nevertheless, I am a Mountaineer!

We are good people. Don’t let some poll, dreamed up by CNN, influence what you think about West Virginia.

Come see us! You’ll be quite surprised! We love each other and we love you, even if you beat us.

We should be No. 1.

We’ll let you decide the category.

WVU vs. Cincinnati: Wanted A Good Home for Big East Officials

Scott Pauley — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 01:38:06 -0500

First of all, I want to take nothing away from the Cincinnati Bearcats.

I want to take nothing away from the WVU Mountaineers.

However, I want to take everything away from the Big East officiating crew for the Friday night game in Cincinnati.

This game could have ended in a very different way, with the Mountaineers on top.

The contest gets off to quite a decent start. The officials flipped the coin and it landed. Not a bad start, EH?

Well, that’s when the officials really showed their aspirations of working in the SEC and getting paid to help the undefeated remain undefeated.

See, I like to “just let the kids play.” However, we often notice that the officials don’t work with that ethic.

Yes, there are times when the officials make calls that we may not see on TV or from the stands.

The sly fox holding penalty, the double clutch snap.

Howbeit, there are many calls that make me think the guy just wants to talk on the loudspeaker.

“Look mom no hands.”

Well, at about the 5:15 mark in the second quarter, Isaiah Pead was thinking the about the same phrase as he fumbled the football before crossing the goal line, and still ending up with the touchdown.

After watching the replay of this handy-dandy play, one will see that Pead was bobbling the ball as he hurled himself into the air and attempted to reach the ball into the end zone.

The outcome—a fumble and WVU recovery.

But wait!

Cue referee with headset.

“The previous play is under review.”

No big deal. It’s obvious that he was fumbling the ball and there is no way there is enough evidence to overturn the call on the field.

But wait!

There is an officiating crew who hasn’t gotten enough attention, and a replay official that would like to score $30,000 from the West Virginia coaching staff.

The call on the field is overturned and Cincinnati gets a free touchdown.

“Look mom, no brain.”

Fast forward to about nine minutes left in the third quarter. West Virginia has the ball on third down with 11 yards to go for a first down.

Jarrett Brown throws the ball to Alric Arnett. Arnett fails to catch it.

Why does he fail to catch it? One might ask.

It seems Cincinnati’s Drew Frey had dinner with the officials. It’s an obvious case of pass interference.

Would one of the great officials call the penalty? NO!!!

I realize the officials have a tough job and I am sure that Coach Stewart will say the same thing when asked about these blown calls.

Nevertheless, they very well may have cost the Mountaineers a victory over Cincinnati, a Big East title, and a BCS bowl berth.

Though there isn’t much that can be done about this game, one may believe there should be stricter penalties on officials.

Should they be fined when blowing calls? Could Bill Stewart, Urban Meyer, or Nick Saban cause the NCAA to look a little closer at the bad calls?

Apparently not, it might hurt the feelings of the men in stripes.

Let the kids play ball but, let them play to win.

If a team loses, let it be because they blew the play, not the officials.

West Virginia vs. Cincinnati: Still Proud To Be a Mountaineer

Scott Pauley — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:09:06 -0500

The Mountaineers of West Virginia put up quite a fight in their 21-24 loss to Cincinnati Friday night.

Being a lifelong WVU fan, this kind of game really tears at the heartstrings. Of course I wanted WVU to win the game and go on to win the Big East title.

However, watching the Mountaineers contain the No. 5 Bearcats and holding them to 24 points helps me take this loss in stride.

If I were to be honest, I would mention that I really didn’t expect the Mountaineers to win the game.

Although, I have never gone into a game thinking they couldn’t win. That’s just what we Mountaineer fans do.

There have been the little games that WVU should have won, but didn’t and the big games they shouldn’t have won, but did.

When a new coach comes to any team and leads it to victory in a way such as Bill Stewart has done with the Mountaineers, well, it’s just something of which to be proud.

I have been proud of the Mountaineers efforts over the last couple of seasons.

I am proud of the way the players have handled themselves during coaching changes.

I am proud of the way the team hasn’t given up during the big games and the little games.

I am proud of the wins. I am proud of the losses. I am proud of the way West Virginia has represented the Big East in bowl games.

I love Mountaineer Football.

That is why I can still be happy.

In the past I have found myself taking a WVU loss, really hard. I find that after such a game, I get quiet, my true demeanor becomes hidden in silence, and I even get a little grumpy.

Near the end of the Cincinnati game I received a text on my cell phone from my wife who was watching the game while she was stuck at work.

Here is what it said: …Just remember you love me and I am not the enemy!

It made me laugh. However, it made me think.

It seems like my wife gets the wrong end of the deal when the Mountaineers lose. To her I apologize and exclaim my love.

I now say this to the Mountaineer fans: it’s time to buck up and get behind the Bearcats.

With two more wins, Cincinnati will be undefeated and be showing the all the naysayers that the Big East is in the BCS to stay.

The whole league should be proud of the efforts put forth this year in football.

Cincy, Pitt, South Florida, Rutgers and yes, West Virginia have all had a great season.

No, the season isn’t over but, that just leaves more time for greatness.

Whether you hail from the North, South, West or East, you are the Big East.

So, Mountaineer faithful, let’s show the rest of the nation why we are proud to be Mountaineers!

College Football: Should the Mountaineers Win Out...

Scott Pauley — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 20:34:29 -0500

With only three games left in the 2009-10 regular-season, the West Virginia Mountaineers have again entered the top 25 and still have BCS aspirations.

The Mountaineers hold it all in their own hands. The three remaining games are all slated for national television and are Big East conference games.

WVU will travel to Cincinnati this Friday the 13^th, then return home for a bye week before playing in the Backyard Brawl, versus Pittsburgh on Nov. 27.

The Mountaineers will cap off the regular-season at Rutgers on Dec 5.

The entire WVU season hinges on the final three games.

With one conference loss, the Mountaineers are still in the running to—at least—share the Big East title.

Should the Mountaineers win out:

Beating Cincy and Pitt would cause the three teams to be tied for the No. 1 spot atop the Big East—each team having one conference loss.

However, the Bearcats will face the Panthers in the final regular-season outing, for both teams, on Dec. 5.

Should the Mountaineers win out:

This game will determine which of the two teams will share the Big East title with West Virginia.

Howbeit, with the head to head win over both teams, WVU will obtain the BCS Bowl berth.

In my opinion, the Cincinnati Bearcats are the best team in the Big East with Pitt in the running as well. Unfortunately for me, I am a Mountaineer.

Naturally, I want to see the Mountaineers victorious in the final three outings, not forgetting the spoiling power of the Scarlet Knights of New Jersey State—Rutgers.

I do enjoy seeing four Big East teams—enter South Florida—ranked among the top 25 teams in the nation. However, when all is finished, I want the West Virginia Mountaineers to be on top.

I have never been to a bowl game. I probably will not be able to afford to go this season either.

Nonetheless, though it may be from my own stadium seat—recliner, watching my own video board—LCD flat screen, in my own personal suite—living room, I will be cheering on my favorite college football team in a BCS bowl,

Should the Mountaineers win out.

The Best Part Of Waking Up: The Maxwell Award, Featuring Noel Devine

Scott Pauley — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:18:08 -0500

No West Virginia Mountaineers player has ever received the coveted Maxwell Award for the best collegiate player of the year.

As a matter of fact, with so many great players in the college ranks, very rarely have we seen a player from WVU make the finals of the watch list.

This year the powers that be have selected WVU junior running back, Noel Devine, as one of the 16 semi-finalists for the 2009-2010 watch list.

Among those players are Texas quarterback Colt McCoy, Pittsburgh running back Dion Lewis, Notre Dame quarterback Jimmy Clausen, and last year’s winner, Florida quarterback Tim Tebow.

One could only expect the best of the best to be named as a semi-finalist for this award.

Fans of the Big East should feel proud to have two representatives from the conference on the list. These two players, Noel Devine and Dion Lewis, happen to be the best of the best in the Big East.

Penn State has had the most Maxwell Award recipients, followed by Notre Dame and Navy.

The Big Ten holds the record for most recipients from one conference and only two players have held the title more than once.

Johnny Lattner of Notre Dame received the award in 1952 and 1953 as well as the Heisman Trophy in 1953. Florida’s Tim Tebow is the reigning Maxwell Award winner and has been since winning the award in 2007. Tebow was also awarded the Heisman Trophy in 2007.

As one may conclude, winning the Maxwell Award is quite a prestigious honor. It is not handed out haphazardly to just any athlete.

Just being a semi-finalist for the award is an honor in itself.

Noel Devine has accrued 2,828 rushing yards, 380 receiving yards and 627 special teams’ yards, in just 32 football games. Through seven games, in 2009 alone, Devine has combined for 1152 total yards.

Winning is an award in itself, no matter what the competition may be.

However, being awarded the Maxwell Award for best player all around is not just an award that is received.

It is an award that is earned.

Will the voters choose a little guy from a seemingly little conference? Will the voters go for the big fish in the little pond? Will those who are semi-finalists now remain in that position? Will the voters choose a player that has gold teeth?

Will West Virginia finally have a Maxwell Award winner?

You know I often wonder—would Mountaineer football be Mountaineer football if the Mountaineers had Maxwell Award finalists or Heisman Trophy finalists every year?

Noel Devine, you make us proud.

UConn: Welcome to Wild, Wonderful, Well-Mannered West Virginia--The Fans

Scott Pauley — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 23:14:47 -0400

College football fans in West Virginia have always been "a house divided" when it comes to cheering on the state's only two FBS (Football Bowl Subdivsion) football teams.

Most of the fine folks in West Virginia will lean toward being a West Virginia Mountaineers fan and despising the Thundering Herd of Marshall. Others will choose to trample any Mountaineer that steps in the way of the Herd.

Still, many fans want to see both teams do well, at least until the two teams compete against each other.

Saying that, it is not always easy for a football fan from West Virginia to support any team other than the one in which he or she truly holds to heart.

I, myself fall into the last of the three categories, with WVU being the team I choose to put at the top of my list.

I have attended football games at Mountaineer Field for a few years and have been quite proud of the support that is given to the home team. However, there have been a couple times in which I was disappointed in the fans for failure to show courtesy to the visiting team.

I recall the—three overtime—victory over the Louisville Cardinals in 2005 in Morgantown. I purchased my tickets late and was seated in the visitors section, with the fans for the UofL.

As you may recall, those of us clad in old gold and blue were not too happy for most of the game. Though their team was certainly headed toward victory, the Cardinal fans were quite courteous in their banter.

As the score began to rise in the home team's favor, the visiting fans did not lose their cool—though their team ended up losing the game.

They were courteous and congratulatory as John Denver's "Country Roads" played on the loudspeaker—following the WVU victory.

I was quite impressed until—while walking through the crowd toward the car—I heard several students from WVU's "Mountaineer Maniacs" yell profanities in a derogatory manner—at the Louisville fans.

I was now quite embarrassed.

It was at that point I realized that maybe the younger Mountaineer fans could use a lesson in humility.

That would indeed happen in years to come, with games against Pitt, South Florida and Louisville—the following season.

I say all of that to say this.

I have never been as proud—of all of the Mountaineer fans—as I am, following the game in Morgantown on Oct. 24th, 2009.

The visiting UConn Huskies had just lost their star cornerback—Jasper Howard—to a violent incident the prior Saturday.

After a record-setting victory performance against Louisville, Howard was stabbed to death—following a Homecoming Dance on the UConn campus.

The UConn team and fans came to Milan Puskar Stadium with more than heavy hearts—having not even laid to rest the body of their fallen teammate, friend, and brother.

The Mountaineer fans, including the student section—Mountaineer Maniacs—were more than affable.

Prior to the game, wristbands and pins were handed out in memory of the slain football player. There was a moment of silence as the teams stood face to face in the middle of the field and chills went over by body as the whole stadium was filled with cheers as the Huskies emerged from the locker room.

The players from West Virginia wore a decal displaying the number six —Howard’s jersey number—on their helmets.

The video board displayed a picture of Jasper Howard and both Huskies and Mountaineers fans held up six fingers, during the playing of "Country Roads" following the West Virginia victory.

I was touched as I exited the stadium and was able to exchange a high five and a "good game" greeting with a UCONN fan.

This time, it was much more rewarding sitting in the visitor's section.

Thank you Mountaineers fans. Thank you Huskies fans. Thank you Jasper Howard.

"It's a great day to be a Mountaineer, wherever you may be"

JH6

West Virginia Football: Death and Departure

Scott Pauley — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 06:28:03 -0500

Dec. 16

Let us reminisce (cue the harp and blurry vision):

Two years ago, this day, I get a phone call from my sister, "Scott, the nurse says we should call any family members who would want to be here and have a long way to travel." Keep in mind I had moved about five hours away from my native Lincoln County, WV, to the beautiful Eastern Panhandle of WV.

"She said mom's not gonna make it."

As I scurried to throw some clothes in a bag, call my fiancé, get the dogs ready, and fight off tears, I remembered that I was going to telephone my mother the night before—just to say hello—but I got busy and forgot.

My mom and I kept in touch on a regular basis, but this time I felt I should call her for some reason.

The drive to Charleston was quite tense. Tears were shed and thoughts were raced.

As I stepped out of the elevator onto the floor of the hospital, I saw approximately 25 family members—most of whom are members of the Church of Christ in Alum Creek, WV—where my mother worshiped and where I worshiped before my move.

What a feeling to see so many folks who care enough to be so supportive. Keeping in mind, my mother was loved by all of these folks as well. Needless to say, they were hurting, too.

I sat down in the waiting room chair, not really knowing what to do or say. Someone spoke up and told me I should go into my mother’s room. So I did.

Watching my mom lie there gasping for air—through a ventilator—was one of the hardest things I have ever done. The whole time I was just hoping that her eyes would open, she would smile and I could tell her I love her.

The machine was turned off and I—along with my two sisters and a few other folks—watched as my mom took her last breath. I held her hand the whole time.

It was a terrible feeling. You see, my mom was only 57 years old and died of a stroke.

FAST-FORWARD one year:

I'm surfing the web on my blackberry and see a "Breaking News" icon, "Rodriguez Headed to Michigan". My heart dropped.

I could not believe it. He had done so much for WVU, he couldn't leave.

I recalled the scare I had gotten when we just about lost Coach Rod to Alabama. Therefore, I refused to believe the news. I searched the Web, tuned my radio to WV Metro News, and hurried to wvmetronews.com.

The news seemed to be true this time. There was no hoping, wishing, dreaming or turning back. It was true, Coach Rod was gone.

What do we do now? Who is going to coach the Fiesta Bowl? Can Coach Stew step up to the plate and get it done? Who will be the next Head Coach of the Mountaineers? I miss you already, Rod!!!!

Let's be honest. Few people liked Coach Rod when he took over the football program for West Virginia. However, after a year or so, we snuggled up to him and let him lead us into a new era of Mountaineer Football.

It took me a long time to get used to Coach Rod, but I began to enjoy his coaching and the atmosphere he brought along with it. He is a great coach and we have him.

Until, the anniversary of my mother's death.

A large and ugly battle would then ensue. Many people would do and say many things that they should not have. Folks would be dragged into the fiasco that should not have been. Lies would be told. Feelings would be hurt.

However, life would go on in Morgantown, WV and the Mountaineer Faithful would see to it that the football program would be just as important as it always had been.

Present day (ok, play the harp and do the blurry picture)

My mother was a very faithful Christian while on this earth. She is now with God—because of her dedication and commitment. Her life goes on.

Each day of my life, I strive to live in a way that will allow me to spend eternity with my mother.

I say with a great deal of confidence that Coach Rod wishes he would have handled things a little better and not caused such a ruckus. He is a great coach; I wish him all the best.

However, He could have chosen a different day to smash the hearts of so many Mountaineers.

Both of these events hurt a great deal.

Keep in mind my mother is in a much better place.

Knowing that will help you understand which one hurt worse.

Let’s GOOOOOOO Mountaineeeeeers...LIFE GOES ON

www.thankscoachrod.com

Racism in Sports: Right There in Black and White

Scott Pauley — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 06:37:25 -0400

Taking a look at the over-all sports scene, many people may notice a slight odor of racial tension.

We can look at the recent issue with New York Mets’ skipper, Willie Randolph. Randolph has blamed the talks of his dismissal on the fact that he is black. That’s absurd!

Gander if you will at Calvin Magee. Magee, the former offensive coordinator for the West Virginia Mountaineers, accused university officials of not hiring him to replace Rich Rodriguez—because he is black. That’s absurd!

Recall the comments made by Donavan McNabb, on the comparing of black quarterbacks to white quarterbacks. McNabb feels that there is more criticism on the black QB than on the white QB. That’s absurd!

Before you draw your own conclusion on this article, let me explain. Looking at the facts, we can see that black athletes are just as good as white athletes. In some cases much better.

So, why is it when a black athlete, coach, water boy, etc… begins to do terrible or is not given the job he or she thinks is owed to him or her, Al Sharpton makes a call to the President?

Here is the truth, should you choose to accept it.

If you haven’t noticed, it’s always the black athlete, coach, water boy or whatever, making the issue a negative one. How many times have we seen a general manager or athletic director refuse to hire a black person, just because of race? The answer: Very few—in modern times.

Hey Willie Randolph, how about just being a better coach. Calvin Magee—just keep hold of Rodriguez’ shirt-tail and hush. Donovan McNabb, how about eating more Chunky Soup—perhaps you may play better.

The fact is—blacks tend to think they are better than whites. It is unfortunate that anyone—black or white—would have this view.

The great Martin Luther King Jr. had the right idea—equality. He never wanted to be treated supremely over the white man.

However, Malcolm X, Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson have made folks feel that if they don’t get treated better than the white person, they are being discriminated against.

To sum up things: If it were not for black athletes, the world of sports would be boring. I could not imagine watching hockey and soccer for the rest of my life.

Unfortunately there are racist people—not just in sports.

However, the ones that seem to be causing the stir are the ones who feel they should be treated like gold. When in fact they are worth just as much to God as the starving children in poverty.

Straighten up people. We are all the same. Just accept being equal. Don’t worry about being better.

Don’t use race as a scapegoat for your own failure. If it were there would be many white people on the altar.

Racial tension wouldn’t be tension if blacks wouldn’t keep harping on it.

Let it go!

Racism is a problem in our country—but it goes both ways!!!

MLB: The Standings April 7 2008

Scott Pauley — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 04:53:15 -0400

Major League Baseball standings for the afternoon of April 7, 2008. 2008 American League - Standings
EAST	W	L	PCT	GB	HOME	ROAD	RS	RA	STRK	L10
Baltimore	4	1	.800	-	4-1	0-0	27	22	Won 4	4-1
Toronto	4	2	.667	.5	3-0	1-2	32	17	Won 3	4-2
Tampa Bay	3	2	.600	1	0-0	3-2	31	20	Lost 1	3-2
NY Yankees	3	3	.500	1.5	3-3	0-0	17	28	Won 1	3-3
Boston	3	4	.429	2	0-0	3-4	23	34	Lost 3	3-4
CENTRAL	W	L	PCT	GB	HOME	ROAD	RS	RA	STRK	L10
Kansas City	4	2	.667	-	0-0	4-2	23	16	Won 1	4-2
Chicago Sox	4	2	.667	-	0-0	4-2	38	28	Won 4	4-2
Cleveland	3	3	.500	1	2-1	1-2	24	25	Won 1	3-3
Minnesota	3	4	.429	1.5	3-4	0-0	19	27	Lost 1	3-4
Detroit	0	6	.000	4	0-6	0-0	15	39	Lost 6	0-6
WEST	W	L	PCT	GB	HOME	ROAD	RS	RA	STRK	L10
LA Angels	4	3	.571	-	1-2	3-1	29	30	Lost 1	4-3
Texas	3	3	.500	.5	0-0	3-3	30	25	Won 1	3-3
Oakland	3	4	.429	1	3-4	0-0	24	20	Lost 1	3-4
Seattle	2	4	.333	1.5	2-1	0-3	23	24	Lost 3	2-4
2008 National League - Standings
EAST	W	L	PCT	GB	HOME	ROAD	RS	RA	STRK	L10
Florida	3	3	.500	-	3-3	0-0	21	40	Lost 1	3-3
Atlanta	3	3	.500	-	3-2	0-1	40	27	Won 2	3-3
Washington	3	4	.429	.5	1-0	2-4	30	29	Lost 4	3-4
NY Mets	2	3	.400	.5	0-0	2-3	30	21	Lost 2	2-3
Philadelphia	2	4	.333	1	1-2	1-2	27	35	Lost 2	2-4
CENTRAL	W	L	PCT	GB	HOME	ROAD	RS	RA	STRK	L10
Milwaukee	5	1	.833	-	3-0	2-1	40	19	Won 3	5-1
St. Louis	5	1	.833	-	5-1	0-0	25	13	Won 5	5-1
Cincinnati	4	2	.667	1	4-2	0-0	27	24	Won 2	4-2
Pittsburgh	3	3	.500	2	0-0	3-3	34	38	Won 1	3-3
Chicago Cubs	3	3	.500	2	3-3	0-0	26	28	Won 2	3-3
Houston	2	5	.286	3.5	0-0	2-5	25	30	Lost 2	2-5
WEST	W	L	PCT	GB	HOME	ROAD	RS	RA	STRK	L10
Arizona	4	2	.667	-	0-0	4-2	31	16	Won 3	4-2
LA Dodgers	4	2	.667	-	2-1	2-1	20	11	Won 1	4-2
San Diego	4	3	.571	.5	4-3	0-0	22	23	Lost 1	4-3
San Francisco	1	5	.167	3	0-0	1-5	12	34	Lost 3	1-5
Colorado	1	5	.167	3	0-3	1-2	10	32	Lost 5	1-5

MLB: Rounding Third and Heading For Home

Scott Pauley — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:31:56 -0400

With a sold out, standing room only, Great American Ballpark, Cincinnati looked much like it would on any other “opening day” of baseball.

The fans were on their feet, Big Red Smokies in hand and the famous "wishbone C" capped their heads.

Following the 89th annual, Opening Day Parade and a lingering rain shower, which delayed the first pitch nearly an hour, these fans were ready to play ball.

Though the crowd of 43,000 did not get to see the home team victorious over the Arizona Diamondbacks, they were given a charter to witness, the start of a season-long celebration of the life.

Former Reds pitcher and announcer, Joe Nuxhall passed away in November 2007 after a long battle with cancer and heart complications.

"Dad, I will never forget this day." The words that have echoed throughout the years, since the invention of the great "American past-time," will today gain a supplementary and deeper essence, through the eyes of many children and fathers alike.

Nuxhall, the youngest player ever to play a major league game in the modern era of baseball, was honored during pre-game ceremonies, including the traditional opening day parade.

Calm rose from the crowd during the team introductions, as each player and coach sprinted onto the field, donning a jersey displaying No. 41, bannered with the name -Nuxhall.

A moment nearly as sobering as Joe's tearful, final broadcast in October 2004.

As expected, all of the players returned to the field wearing his own jersey, with the exception of starting pitcher, Aaron Harang.

When asked about the opportunity to wear the # 41, Harang said, he never gave it a second thought.

The area above the visitors' bullpen was adorned with a Nuxhall jersey, which will remain there for the entire season.

The Cincinnati Reds: The first major league baseball team.

Joe Nuxhall: The youngest player to play in the major leagues.

Opening Day 2008: "Son, I will never forget this day."

"... So, for one last time, this is the Ol' Lefthander, rounding third and heading for home. Good afternoon everyone. - Joe Nuxhall

Bleacher Report: Why Read Anything Else?

Scott Pauley — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 12:46:43 -0400

Dateline, December 16, 2007:

Head football coach, Rich Rodriguez, announces he will leave WVU for the "bigger and better" University of Michigan.

As soon as I heard the news, I searched the web for a good domain name for the website I intended to create in order express my disappointment.

I settled for the domain name, www.thankscoachrod.com.

While creating the site and doing research, I came across Bleacherreport.com.

Since then, the Bleacher Report has become a part of my everyday life (as I know it).

Where else can a person go to get everything he/she needs to know about the world of sports and give his/her personal opinion on a particular article.

The fact is, on the Bleacher Report, a person can even write his/her own article, in a style that helps the everyday sports enthusiasts understand.

In turn, bringing them back for more.

Since becoming a writer and editor for the site, I have come to see how important it is to the readers, to write articles that are informative and entertaining. While editing articles written by other writers, I understand that not all writers have the same writing style. Which gets my attention and makes me want to read more.

I believe that the creators of the site have taken many steps to improve the relationships between writers, editors and readers.

The most recent action: announcing an upcoming feature, that will not only better the site, but also make things easier for the writers, as well as the editors. Consequently, making a huge impact on the readers.

Why would anyone even think about choosing another sports information outlet over the Bleacher Report?

I foresee the sports section of your local newspapers becoming extinct, due to the success of Bleacherreport.com.

So, if you want to make sure that you are always on top of the daily sports news, make the Bleacher Report a part of your daily regimen.

You won't be sorry, and if you are, you can always write an article about Rich Rodriguez, to vent your frustrations.

Welcome to BleacherReport.com.

Letter to the Editor's: Stop changing the writer's content

Scott Pauley — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 09:58:27 -0400

Here we go...

I have been a writer for bleacherreport.com for a little over a month. I have written several articles. I enjoy writing the articles, and I have my own writing style.

However, I am an editor as well.

I do not go around changing the content of other articles. I simply look for errors such as, spelling, grammar, punctuation, spacing, capitalization, formatting, etc...

I do not change the pictures nor do I try to make an article one of my own. It is not the job of the editor to do so.

There has been more than one occasion in which my article(s) have been totally changed. If I use (parentheses) that means I wanted it like that. If I use ... that means I wanted a ....

So, please feel free to look at my articles to see if I missed a comma or forgot to put in a simple word. But, DO NOT change my article to make it what you think it should be. Do not change my picture to one I did not choose.

I make mistakes, and they need correcting. Just don't make an article worse than it was.

OH YEAH! Do not remove tags. If I write about the sweet sixteen, i may tag it with "final four" or "elite eight", big deal. It's ok.

Now if I were to tag it with "NFL", I might expect a deletion.

Chances are, I will just revert to my original post after you waste your time editing.

Think yew an hav uh nise dey.

WVU Bench Comes Alive to Help Clinch Sweet Sixteen Berth

Scott Pauley — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 15:10:38 -0400

...And there you have it.

As Jonnie West (yep, that's Jerry's kid) steps onto the court with about a minute remaining, the crowd, clad mostly in old gold and blue, was on its feet.

Coach Bob Huggins had come home to Morgantown to beat Duke for the first time in WVU history and the first time in his career. Thus, claiming the Mountaineers as one of the sweetest 16 teams in the country.

This being the day before (what many people incorrectly celebrate as a religious holiday) Easter Sunday, I was happy just be able to sit back and watch the whole first half of the game with no interruptions.

It was a great day and I knew it would be a great game. Until it started. Yes, WVU scored the first four points in the game. However, Duke went on a 12-0 run immediately after.

The day wasn't getting any better for fans of WVU.

As the game progressed, Duke would stay alive to conquer the first half. With enormous help from the officiating crew, the Blue Devils would take a six point lead into the locker room at halftime.

As normal, my fiance would have something for me to do. So, at halftime I completed my assigned tasks, just in time to catch the start of the second half, on the radio in my truck.

While the start of the second half went much like the first, I was still hopeful of a WVU victory.

With Duke up by seven, I had to make a stop for some Peeps at the local Rite Aid. I took my time and purchased a few other items of sweet and finally got back to the game.

Much to my stupefaction, WVU was now up by two, and I had missed it all.

I continued my journey to a cookout/"Easter" egg hunt with a good presentiment about the outcome of this second round, tournament match-up. I arrived at the host's home and went straight to the television, not neglecting the brief handshakes and socializing on my way down the hall.

I was able to watch Joe Alexander have a tremendous second half and continue watching the explosive effort of Joe Mazzula. In tandem, these two ball players showed the heart of a winner.

I was excited to see the WVU bench contribute so much to this victory. Mazzula himself had 13 points, 11 rebounds and 8 assists. Not to mention the amazing performances by Jamie Smalligan, John Flowers and Cam Thoroughman, who has averaged 5.6 minutes of play for the entire season.

Therefore, the day that started as a good day, finally got better, as the Mountaineers went on to a 73-67 victory over the Duke Blue Devils and claimed a spot on the court in Phoenix for the "Sweet Sixteen" tournament.

A team once identified as a "Cinderella Team" has now proven that they have the right to be called, "The Contender".

For the folks at Bleacherreport.com, I'll take my t-shirt in a double XL.

WVU Basketball: Who Needs To Be Cinderella When You're the Prince?

Scott Pauley — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 10:51:48 -0400

Last year's NIT Champions don't have anything to prove. The West Virginia Mountaineers haven't come very far since last season, only because they didn't have to.

The Mounties barely missed the "big dance" last year and had to settle for a hoe-down.

The poor decision by the NCAA selection committee didn't seem to bother WVU or the great state of West Virginia and it's Mountaineer faithful.

You see, those of us who hail from WV (W.Va for outsiders) take pride in our team, no matter what happens. We are proud to follow the boys and/or girls where ever they may lead us.

We have been to the NCAA tourney 21 times and visited the NIT 15 times. We have entered the Sweet Sixteen. We have seen ourselves in the Elite Eight and have surpassed the Final Four (as it is known today) to compete in three National Championships.

You may recall a fella' by the name Jerry West, who just happened to be the star of the 1959 NCAA Championship game. Or, you may have heard the name 'Hot Rod' Hundley a time or two, who helped the WVU Basketball program emerge from the shadows.

The list goes on: Rod Thorn, Mike Gansey, Kevin Pittsnogle, Alex Ruoff, Joe Alexander, Frank Young, etc...

I don't wanna brag but, I have no doubts that this year's WVU Men's Basketball team will make it to the Sweet Sixteen once again. If they make it further, ok. If not, ok. I mean, c'mon, the team had to take on a coaching change, which comes along with a new game plan. I will gladly give them a pat on the back just for making as far as they have already.

So, to sum things up. The boys were good last year and just as good this year. They are part of a dynasty that has been around for years. Win or lose they have fans who will support them.

I ask you, why settle for a slipper, a kiss and a ride in a pumpkin, when you have reason to be called the King?

WVU and Bob Huggins: Hey Coach! How About Smiling Every Now and Then

Scott Pauley — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 14:30:45 -0400

While contemplating the whole Bleacher Report Bracketbreaker Challenge, I thought to myself and out loud to my two rat terriers, about the best route to take if I were to join the fun. We decided that I should not turn my back on the Mountaineers of WVU.

I suppose one might call me old school when it comes to my view of the recent coaching changes in the WVU athletic department. Yeah, I like to see W's instead of L's but, I would much more prefer respect.

My mind wanders back to my Grandfather's garage and a small radio, amidst the Gale Catlett/Don Nehlen era, when things were not always a celebration in Morgantown. However, as a young boy I was proud to be a Mountaineer.

While growing in stature, age, wisdom and a little around the waist, I also grew to respect WVU coaches Catlett and Nehlen. I really enjoyed the way they presented themselves and the manner in which both promoted West Virginia, not just themselves.

So, it goes without saying that the college sports scene has changed since that those "good ol' days". Therefore, we must all accept it and go with the flow.

We all know the continuing saga with former WVU football coach Rich Rodriguez and we have also seen how a hoops coach can use a Big East ball team as a stepping stone and then make a "bee line" to the Big Ten. However, we have yet to see our head basketball coach get arrested for DUI. Well, at least since he's been in Morgantown anyway.

West Virginia head basketball coach Bob Huggins was born in Morgantown, moved to Ohio and began his college B-ball career at Ohio University, before transferring to WVU in 1975. "Huggs" played for WVU through the 1977 season and then tried out for the Philadelphia 76ers but, was cut.

After a couple years as an assistant, Huggins began his head coaching career in 1980. He eventually landed the head position at the University of Cincinnati in 1989. The Bearcats did very well under his guidance. This helped convince the sports world that Bob Huggins can coach basketball.

The fact is, he can coach. Look at his record. He definitely has more W's than L's. However, I was disappointed when he was named the coach of the Mountaineers. For those of you who may not know, Bob Huggins was arrested for DUI during his tenure at Cincinnati. This is not the kind of guy I want coaching at WVU.

Huggins may be an awesome coach but, just not the legacy I care to, care about.

OK, so in his first season at WVU, I must admit he exceeded my expectations and I applaud him for his success. The point is: WVU has great players and a good coach.

As long as Joe Alexander, Alex Ruoff, Darris Nichols, Jamie Smalligan, Da'Sean Butler, Joe Mazzulla and the rest of the bench can keep doing what they are doing on the court and Bob Huggins can put down the bottle and maybe even crack a smile in public, the Mountaineers will prevail to the Sweet 16, slipper or no slipper...

Prepare Yourselves Michigan, The Nittany Lions Just May Need a Football Coach Soon

Scott Pauley — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 12:26:09 -0400

First of all, let me say this is the furthest thing from an anti JoePa article. Unfortunately, Joe Paterno, the head football coach of THE Penn State University is not getting any younger.

As you may well know, there have been opinions spanning the last three or four years that have cultivated many rumors of the future of Coach Paterno.

However, when the rumors and opinions begin to erupt, so does the continuing legacy of the best coach in the NCAA. When it seems the decision to get rid of Paterno is threatening, he always ends up taking care of business on the gridiron (that means football field for you soccer fans) thus, quieting his critics for yet another season.

Many rush to blame JoePa for the off-field antics, in which some PSU players have recently chosen to partake. Nevertheless, the parents of these overly rambunctious teens are still never mentioned as being contributors to such erratic behavior.

"It's the coach's fault these boys get into trouble, we all know their parents raised them so very well." That's just preposterous! Parents need to teach their children to act respectfully, especially when they are getting a free education.

Although, when a player decides to make a mockery of himself and his team, it is the responsibility of the coach to take a stand. At this point, the coach cannot allow a player to assume he can do what he wants, when he wants, for the simple fact that he's a great football player.

JoePa knows how to discipline. Just ask Austin Scott. Not only was JoePa's disciplinary action the best move for the football program but, the best for the young Mr. Scott as well.

Take former WVU players, Chris Henry and Adam 'Pacman' Jones for instance. Both had trouble on and off the field while playing for Rich Rodriguez. Coach Rod chose not to discipline them in the proper way. Look at where they are now. Nothing but trouble in the NFL.

OK, so the fact is JoePa is getting older. Some of the trustees for PSU sports would probably not beg him to stay if he hinted he wanted to leave. Furthermore, JoePa will never be forced to leave the program that he built into what it is today.

Now for the Wolverines. Keep in mind that the No. 1 reason that Coach Rod gave when asked why he left WVU to go to Michigan was "it's Michigan".

Of course he was speaking of the great football program and the history of the school. He has a good point but c'mon, everybody knows that Penn State is the dream job for any football coach.

So, watch out U-M. I imagine a statement something like this in the near future: "I left Michigan, No. 1, because it's Penn State and No. 2, my son has already committed to the Nittany Lions class of 2010. Oh yeah, and it's a lot closer to home..."

Rich Rodriguez: Throwing The Big Game?

Scott Pauley — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 14:24:22 -0500

Just so you know, the horse may have three broken legs but, he has yet to be shot. So, I'm not technically beating a "dead" horse.

No matter who is talking or writing or blogging or however they may be communicating their respective views concerning Rich Rodriguez, they more times than not, bring up the WVU loss to Pitt in the Backyard Brawl.

Those who are mad at Rich say he threw the game. That's ABSURD! I hated to see the 'EERS lose that game but c'mon.

Here is a version of one of my blog entries from www.thankscoachrod.com concerning this unfortunate situation:

Listen! I am very unhappy at ~~Coach~~ Rod. I hate the way he handled the situation upon his leaving WVU. I hate that the majority of the WV people have hard feelings about him right now, including myself.
However!!!! I could never accuse ~~Coach~~ Rod of throwing ANY game. Especially, The Backyard Brawl.

I understand how tough it is to deal with his departure (notice this whole website) but, he is still a doggone good coach and would not want that on his record. Furthermore, even if WVU beats Pitt and goes on to the BCS Championship and perhaps even wins it, doesn't automatically keep ~~Coach~~ Rod in Morgantown. It, in my opinion, would only make other schools want him that much more.

We can all hate the fact that ~~Coach~~ Rod is gone, hate the way he went about it and even write about it on the web, in the papers or talk about it to everyone we meet. But, we can't hate ~~Coach~~ Rod. He had problems with the administration and visa versa. He could have accepted the fact that he would have to endure some difficulties with the administration, for the sake of his players and the legacy he was continuing to build. He should have not taken it out on the rest of us, AGREED!

However!!! ~~Coach~~ Rod did not throw the Pitt game, just so he would have an excuse to leave for Michigan. That's just absurd...

The Campaign Trail: Morgantown to Ann Arbor...From a Mountaineer to a Weasel...

Scott Pauley — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 14:45:36 -0500

If you have been paying attention to www.thankscoachrod.com or other news, you may realize that it seems the Rich Rodriguez storyline has come to a halt. I would call it more of an intermisson.

So, where do you stand on the issue? Who is at fault, WVU President Mike Garrison, Athletic Director Ed Pastilong, Coach Rod, his agent Mike Brown (my vote) or all of them? Or just maybe it was the Grinch taking his part out of Christmas for WVU.

Let me give you some options:

If you are a die-hard Mountaineer, you will side with Pastilong, Garrison and the WVU cronies. If you are a true West Virginian, you will side with ~~Coach~~ Rod. However, if you are both, you will have trouble figuring out whose side you're on. (Just blame it on a hanging chad.)

I consider myself a true West Virginian who is a die-hard Mountaineer fan. I refuse to believe (all of) the things that the WVU administration is alleging. However, I DO NOT believe everything that comes out of the mouth of Mike Brown. Though, ~~Coach~~ Rod seems to be a hot-head, I tend to believe him a little more. I never have hated the guy. I know where ~~Coach~~ Rod spent Christmas and I have spoken with a fellow who is from that same area, who actually spoke with ~~Coach~~ Rod during the Holidays and relayed to me some things that he said that made me think.

I get the impression that the "smear campaign" that has risen from the smoldering ashes of a Mountaineer campfire that was stomped out by the paw of a Panther, goes deeper than what we as the public see. I have made an attempt to speak with ~~Coach~~ Rod about all of these issues. I can only wait and see if the call is answered.

I for one would love to see all of this just go away. But, as we all know, that whistle wont blow nor will the fat lady begin to warm up her vocal cords until, at the soonest, the end of the 2008 football season. Right now I'm on the fence. Either side can be blamed for bad decisions. The Governor of WV can be blamed for publicly slamming ~~Coach~~ Rod (a close and longtime friend). But, if you think about it, Gov. Joe Manchin has much more in his "order" that could be aired in a similar way. Ya, didn't hear ~~Coach~~ Rod talking about him.

If I had my choice, I would trade Joe Manchin to Michigan for ~~Coach~~ Rod any day. All of that aside, WVU still has a football team. WVU has an awesome new coaching staff. WVU has a great returning team and West Virginia has the will to survive. So, as WVU sportscaster Tony Caridi would put it, it's still "a great day to be a Mountaineer" especially if you are a West Virginian...

Get more info at www.thankscoachrod.com

True Dedication: Joe Paterno

Scott Pauley — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 15:29:01 -0500

Joe Paterno, JoePa for short, is a classic example of a college football coach who is dedicated to the program that made him who he is today. JoePa celebrated his 81st birthday on Dec. 21st 2007.

JoePa, the coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions has been the head football coach for over 40 years. JoePa, the head coach of PSU has been on the PSU coaching staff since he graduated college in 1950. JoePa, the head football coach of PSU worked his way up through the ranks to get where he is today. JoePa, the best coach in the Big 10 has never had a salary over $500,000. However the year 2007 may have taken him to $500,000.99 JoePa, the best coach ever is second only to Bobby Bowden of Florida State in career wins. JoePa, the coach of the team who will STOMP Michigan has been coaching the same team for 58 years.

JoePa's loyalty is so strong with Penn State that he turned down an offer to coach the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1969, an offer he initially seriously considered. (The Steelers ended up hiring Chuck Noll, who would win four Super Bowls with the team in a 23-year head coaching career.)

I could go on and on about the loyalty and the awesome job that JoePa has done at PSU but, I haven't the space or time. Just go to Wikipedia.org or some sports page somewhere and search Joe Paterno. You will see his success. I'm sure many of you know all about it anyway.

Less than a $500,000 salary + 58 years, now that's loyalty, dedication, leadership, respect, yada yada...

So, what do I want to accomplish with this article??? GO FIGURE!!!!!!!!!