Sports

Leave a comment Posted on #TBT Year in Review

#TBT Year in Review: 1996

In the year New Zealand singer-songwriter Lorde was born…

  • The Daily Show aired for the first time on Comedy Central
  • Nintendo 64 was released in Japan
  • The Ramones performed their last show 
  • The OJ Simpson civil trial began
  • Steve Jobs’ company NeXT was bought by Apple, which he also founded

Tupac Shakur was shot and killed at the age of 25. 

To this day, people are trying to prove he’s still alive. 

AND in the worlds of movies, music and sports…

Movies

Comedy

Happy Gilmore, Swingers, Kingpin, Matilda, 101 Dalmatians, Don’t Be A Menace in South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood, Tin Cup, The Nutty Professor, Bio-Dome, The Cable Guy, Beautiful Girls, The First Wives Club, That Thing You Do, Striptease, Jack, Multiplicity, Kazaam, The Birdcage, Beavis and Butthead Do America, Down Periscope, The Stupids, Black Sheep, Bulletproof, One Fine Day, Spy Hard, Sgt. Bilko AND…

Space Jam

Action/Thriller

Scream, Independence Day, The Rock, Escape from LA, A Time to Kill, From Dusk Till Dawn, Twister, The Craft, Fear, Eraser, Broken Arrow, The Long Kiss Goodnight, The Ghost and the Darkness, The Frighteners, Chain Reaction, Ransom, Executive Decision, The Fan, Last Man Standing, Maximum Risk, AND…

Mission Impossible

Drama

Trainspotting, Jerry Maguire, The English Patient, Romeo + Juliet, Sling Blade, Sleepers, Secrets and Lies, Shine, Michael Collins, The People vs. Larry Flynt, Evita, The Mirror Has Two Faces, Kolya, Bullet, The Mirror Has Two Faces, Jude, Mother Night, Phenomenon, Gotti, Emma, Before and After, The Juror, Fly Away Home, Marvin’s Room, AND…

Fargo

The 69th Academy Awards

Best Actor

  • Tom Cruise, Jerry Maguire
  • Ralph Fiennes, The English Patient
  • Woody Harrelson, The People vs. Larry Flynt
  • Billy Bob Thornton, Sling Blade
  • Geoffrey Rush, Shine – Winner

(The first of 4 nominations for Geoffery Rush. His latest was in 2011 for The King’s Speech) 

Best Supporting Actor

  • William H. Macy, Fargo
  • Armin Mueller-Stahl, Shine
  • Edward Norton, Primal Fear
  • James Woods, Ghosts of Mississippi
  • Cuba Gooding Jr., Jerry Maguire – Winner

(Cuba Gooding Jr. won the only time he was nominated)

Best Actress

  • Brenda Blethyn, Secrets & Lies
  • Diane Keatin, Marvin’s Room
  • Kristin Scott Thomas, The English Patient
  • Emily Watson, Breaking the Waves
  • Frances McDormand, Fargo – Winner

(Frances McDormand has been nominated 3 other times, most recently for North Country in 2006)

Best Supporting Actress

  • Joan Allen, The Crucible
  • Lauren Bacall, The Mirror Has Two Faces
  • Barbara Hershey, The Portrait of a Lady
  • Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Secrets & Lies
  • Juliette Binoche, The English Patient – Winner

(Juliette Binoche was nominated once more in 2001 for Chocolat)

Best Picture

  • Fargo
  • Jerry Maguire
  • Secrets & Lies
  • Shine
  • The English Patient – Winner

(The English Patient won 9 of the 12 Oscars it was nominated for, including best Director)

Music

Rock Albums

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Hip Hop Albums

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Pop Albums

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Billboard Year-End Top 25 Songs

  1. “Macarena (Bayside Boys Mix)” – Los del Rio
  2. “One Sweet Day” – Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men
  3. “Because You Loved Me” – Celine Dion
  4. “Nobody Knows” – The Tony Rich Project
  5. “Always Be My Baby” – Mariah Carey
  6. “Give Me One Reason” – Tracy Chapman
  7. “The Crossroads” – Bone Thugs-n-Harmony
  8. “I Love You Always Forever” – Donna Lewis
  9. “You’re Makin’ Me High / “Let It Flow” – Tony Braxton
  10. “Twisted” – Keith Sweat
  11. “C’mon N’ Ride It (The Train)” – Quad City DJ’s
  12. “Missing” – Everything but the Girl
  13. “Ironic” – Alanis Morissette
  14. “Exhale (Shoop Shoop)” – Whitney Houston
  15. “Follow You Down” / “Til I Hear It From You” – Gin Blossoms
  16. “Sittin’ Up in My Room” – Brandy
  17. “How Do U Want It”/”California Love” – 2Pac featuring K-Ci & JoJo / Dr Dre
  18. “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now” – Celine Dion
  19. “Change the World” – Eric Clapton
  20. “Hey Lover” – LL Cool J
  21. “Loungin” – LL Cool J
  22. “Insensitive” – Jann Arden
  23. “Be My Lover” – La Bouche
  24. “Name” – Goo Goo Dolls
  25. “Will You Save Your Sould” – Jewel

Sports

Baseball

League Leaders

Offensive

Average: Alex Rodriguez (SEA) – .358

Hits: Lance Johnson (NYM) – 227

Home Runs: Mark McGwire (OAK) – 52

RBI: Andres Galarraga (COL) – 150

OPS: Mark McGwire (STL) – 1.198

Stolen Bases: Kenny Lofton (CLE) – 75

Pitching

Wins: John Smoltz (ATL) – 24

ERA: Kevin Brown (FLA) – 1.89

Strikeouts: John Smoltz (ATL) – 276

Complete Games: Pat Hentgen (TOR) – 10

Shutouts: Pat Hentgen (TOR) – 3

Saves: Jeff Brantley (CIN) & Todd Worrell (LAD) – 44

MVP

AL – Juan Gonzalez (TEX)

NL – Ken Caminiti (SD)

CY Young

AL – Pat Hentgen (TOR)

NL – John Smoltz (ATL)

Rookie of the Year

AL – Derek Jeter (NYY)

NL – Todd Hollandsworth (LAD)

World Series

New York Yankees over the Atlanta Braves (4-2)

Basketball

NCAA

Final Four:

(1) Kentucky (1) UMass (4) Syracuse (5) Mississippi State

National Championship

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qx-o1m2_HU

(1) Kentucky over (4) Syracuse 76-67

NBA

League Leaders

Points Per Game: Michael Jordan (CHI) – 30.4

Rebounds Per Game: Dennis Rodman (CHI) – 14.9

Assists Per Game: John Stockton (UTAH) – 11.2

All-NBA Team

Afernee Hardaway (ORL)

Michael Jordan (CHI)

Karl Malone (UTAH)

Scottie Pippen (CHI)

David Robinson (SA)

MVP – Michael Jordan (CHI)

Rookie – Damon Stoudamire (TOR)

NBA Finals

Chicago Bulls over Seattle Supersonics (4-2)

Football

NCAA

Heisman Trophy – Danny Wuerffel, Florida

National Championship

Ike Hilliard

(3) Florida over (1) Florida State 52-20 in the Sugar Bowl

NFL

League Leaders

Passing Yards: Mark Brunell (JAX) – 4,367

Passing Touchdowns: Brett Favre (GB) – 39

Passer Rating: Steve Young (SF) – 97.2

Rushing Yards: Barry Sanders (DET) – 1,553

Rushing Touchdowns: Terry Allen (WAS) – 21

Receiving Yards: Isaac Bruce (STL) – 1,338

Receiving Touchdowns: Michael Jackson (BAL) & Tony Martin (SD) – 14

Receptions: Jerry Rice (SF) – 108

AP MVP – Brett Favre (GB)

Super Bowl XXXI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-T1D_H-vOSA

Green Bay Packers over New England Patriots 35-21

Hockey

League Leaders

Goals: Mario Lemieux (PIT) – 69

Assists: Ron Francis (PIT) & Mario Lemieux (PIT) – 92

Points: Mario Lemieux (PIT) – 161

Hart Memorial Trophy – Mario Lemieux (PIT)

Stanley Cup

Colorado Avalanche over Florida Panthers (4-0)

Did I miss anything? Let me know on Twitter @Mike_PiFF03 or on Facebook.

Also checkout past #TBT Years in Review.

2012

2011

2010

2007

2006

2005

2002

1999

1998

1992

1990

1989

1988

1987

Leave a comment Posted on Chicago, music, TV

What To Love About Fall Around Chicago

Happy First Day of Fall, Chicago.

If you were up early this morning, I hope you got a good look at “Chicagohenge” as the sunrise lined up with the city’s East-West grid. You can check it out again at sunset, in cased you missed it, but it only happens twice a year.

Screen Shot 2015-09-23 at 9.49.54 AM

Fall is my favorite season in Chicago, and I know I’m not alone saying so. Sure it means “Winter is Coming“, but it’s more like opening a fresh jar of peanut butter than it is scraping the bottom of one.

So what makes Fall worth loving? I’m glad you asked…

1. Sweater Weather and Flannel

Sweater Weather

Sweater Weather is so good that The Neighborhood recorded a song about it…Some of us are much more in our element with long sleeves and a cool breeze.

Has fashion ever blessed us with anything better than the hoodie?

Poehler Party

I think not…

And when else is Al Borland’s getup ever sexier?

Al Borland

mmm…checker patterns and stripes.

While sweaters and flannel are fantastic on their own, they both pair perfectly with the always lovable “puffy” vest. At least you’re getting ahead of the curve for Star Wars: Episode VII.

“I love you.” / “…I know.”

2. Them Leaves

Chicago Leaves

Fall foliage is a thing in Chicago. It may be the most stunning part about living in a region with four seasons. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the Loop area, you can get lost in the changing of the leaves around Grant Park. Perhaps take a walk around Lincoln Park as the zoo tigers are camouflaged with the trees. I’m also looking forward to the views along the new 606 Trail and West Ridge Nature Preserve.

If you’re looking for a nice getaway from the city, take an hour and half trip west on Rt. 80 toward the Illinois Valley and see what Starved Rock is all about. The hiking is fantastic and nearby are the greatest wings ON THE PLANET at Skoog’s in Utica.

Starved Rock Fall

While you’re already heading west, go see what the Quad Cities are all about. The first half of my college years were certainly highlighted by the unbelievable view at Augustana College walking the Slough Path to class.

Screen Shot 2015-09-23 at 11.03.40 AM

Hey now…You can take a train from Chicago to Rock Island, so it counts.

3. Sports, baby…Sports.

Soldier Field

I know, Bears fans. Not the start to a season that anybody wanted…but when did that ever stop you from throwing on your blue and orange and fill up Soldier Field? Seriously. Those games are always sold out…At least you have Fantasy Football and tailgating, right?

It won’t be too long before the United Center tenants are back at it making 1901 W. Madison into a Madhouse again. The Blackhawks drop their new Stanley Cup banner and set to defend it starting with the New York Rangers Oct. 7th, and the Bulls tipoff with their season against LeBron James and the Cavs on their NEW home floor Oct. 27th.

It also looks like there WILL be October baseball in Chicago. Even though not all of us are Cubs fans *cough* me *cough*, it’s hard not to appreciate the fun they’re having on the north side. I don’t know how long the run will last, but you can’t help imagining how insane the city will be if a certain team hoists a certain trophy in a certain ballpark…

…and don’t forget Northwestern Football. Coach Pat Fitzgerald won’t let you.

Screen Shot 2015-09-23 at 11.38.33 AM

Go Cats…?

4. Gone Pickin’…

Apple Picking

According to my Facebook feed around this time each year, couples and families LUV to go apple picking. For those of you interested in this sort of thing, here’s a helpful directory for you.

For those less inclined to do free manual labor on the weekends, might I recommend APPLE FEST in Long Grove? Starting this Friday, Sept 25th through the weekend, all the fun shops and vendors in tiny and quaint Long Grove gather to share apple treats and all the joy Fall can bring. There’s music, cider doughnuts, apple sangria, and I hear the Confectionary is making white chocolate and cinnamon sugar candy apples.

Screen Shot 2015-09-23 at 11.57.01 AM

Can someone please try to recreate this photo and post it to the Facebook page? Thanks!

5. Halloween’ness

Screen Shot 2015-09-23 at 12.00.24 PM

Why yes, yes that is Daley Plaza…

While you’re not glued to your television being “Shawshanked” into an AMC Marathon of bad slasher franchise sequels, you’ll probably notice all the Halloween popup stores in what used to be your favorite nearby businesses. (*Skypoint* Blockbuster)…

Quick remedy? How about a trip to your nearest terrifying Haunted House? For years I’ve been trying to gather friends (and the nerves) to try the Statesville Haunted Prison. If you’re interested, just Tweet at me.

Screen Shot 2015-09-23 at 12.13.40 PM

If you’re less than willing to have the begeezes scared out of you, I would recommend doing what I have for the past few years…hit up a Bulls game and count how many “Where’s Waldo” costumes you find. It’s absurdly entertaining.

6. Fall Beverages

Screen Shot 2015-09-23 at 12.29.57 PM

I know, Pumpkin Spiced Anything is the fad this time of year…but so are several seasonal adult beverages. The patios are still open across the city, and what’s better than a “warm apple pie” or some other warm cocktail while siting along the the Chicago river walk?

I’ll sit and wait for your response…

…

…

…

That’s what I thought.

If you happen to have some recipes for excellent Fall-coholic beverages, please feel free to share them on the Facebook page and I’ll post them to the site as well!

7. Fun Runs

Chicago Fun Runs

You may be like most of us who didn’t train for the Chicago Marathon, but still want to feel like you accomplished something fitness-wise this Fall. FEAR NOT! Here’s a schedule for the remaining “run for fun” races, including various Thanksgiving Turkey Trots and the famous Hot Chocolate Run…

Hot Chocolate Run

That totally looks worth running a 15k or 5k.

8. ALL THE PEANUTS SPECIALS

Not necessarily something Chicago-centric, but it’s the F’ing Peanuts. Who didn’t grow up on Snoopy and all the holiday specials? With the new movie coming out in November, it’s hard to imagine there won’t be a ton of fun promotions around the city for it.

9. Indoor Concerts – Big and Small

Festival season is over, but the music lives strong in Chicago year-round.

From the big stadium venues like the United Center and Allsate Arena…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J94-IJssTcs

To concert halls like House of Blues, The Riviera, The Metro, The Vic, and The Aragon Ballroom…

Wilco Riv

and small venues like The Beat Kitchen, Reggies, Double Door, and Bottom Lounge. You never know who’s going to show up…

10…

You let me know on Facebook and Twitter!

1 Comment Posted on #TBT Year in Review

#TBT Year in Review: 2012

In the year the world DIDN’T end (looking at you John Cusack)…

  • After 244 years of publication, Encyclopedia Britannica discontinued its print edition. 
  • Felix Baumgartner became the first person to break the sound barrier without machine assistance by diving out of a helium balloon from outer-space. 
  • Key & Peele made their Comedy Central debut.
  • Whitney Houston passed away at the age of 49.

And here’s what happened in Movies, Music and Sports…

Movies

Comedy

Ted, 21 Jump Street, The Dictator, Pitch Perfect, Wanderlust, American Reunion, What To Expect When You’re Expecting, This Is 40, Project X, Think Like A Man, Dark Shadows, Rock of Ages, The Lorax, Wreck-It Ralph, The Campaign, Casa de Mi Padre, Safety Not Guaranteed, For a Good Time Call…, The Guilt Trip, The Three Stooges, Tim and Eric’s Billion Dollar Movie, Magic Mike, The Five-Year Engagement, Seeking a Friend for the End of the World, Hit and Run AND…

Moonrise Kingdom

Action/Thriller

Skyfall, The Avengers, Savages, Safe House, The Hunger Games, Taken 2, The Bourne Legacy, Man on a Ledge, Looper, Safe, Stolen, Jack Reacher, Resident Evil: Retribution, Premium Rush, End of Watch, Sinister, Contraband, Erased, Battleship, Seven Psychopaths, Dredd, Total Recall, Prometheus, The Amazing Spider-Man, Chronicle AND…

The Dark Knight Rises

Drama

Django Unchained, Silver Linings Playbook, Argo, Zero Dark Thirty, Lincoln, Beasts of the Southern Wild, Les Miserables, The Master, Cloud Atlas, The Vow, Flight, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Mud, Disconnect, Red Tails, Promised Land, Amour, Trouble with the Curve, Hitchcock, The Place Beyond the Pines

Argo

The 85th Academy Awards

Best Actor

  • Hugh Jackman, Les Miserables
  • Joaquin Phoenix, The Master
  • Denzel Washington, Flight
  • Bradley Cooper, Silver Linings Playbook
  • Daniel Day-Lewis, Lincoln – Winner

(This was his 3rd win out of 5 nominations dating back to My Left Foot in 1990)

Best Supporting Actor

  • Alan Arkin, Argo
  • Robert De Niro, Silver Linings Playbook
  • Philip Seymour Hoffman, The Master
  • Tommy Lee Jones, Lincoln
  • Christoph Waltz, Django Unchained – Winner

(Waltz has won both times he was nominated. Both for Tarantino roles)

Best Actress

  • Jessica Chastain, Zero Dark Thirty
  • Emmanuelle Riva, Amour
  • Quvenzhane Wallis, Beasts of the Southern Wild
  • Naomi Watts, The Impossible
  • Jennifer Lawrence, Silver Linings Playbook – Winner

(JLaw was nominated 3 times in 4 years, beginning in 2011 for Winter’s Bone)

Best Supporting Actress

  • Helen Hunt, The Sessions
  • Jacki Weaver, Silver Linings Playbook
  • Amy Adams, The Master
  • Sally Field, Lincoln
  • Anne Hathaway, Les Miserables – Winner

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86lczf7Bou8

(Hathaway was nominated once more in 2009 for her lead role Rachel Getting Married)

Best Picture

  • Amour
  • Beasts of the Southern Wild
  • Django Unchained
  • Life of Pi
  • Lincoln
  • Les Miserables
  • Silver Linings Playbook
  • Zero Dark Thirty
  • Argo – Winner

(Argo won 2 more Oscars out of 7 nominations, for Best Writing and Editing)

Music

Rock Albums

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Hip Hop Albums

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Pop Albums

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Billboard Year-End Top 25 Songs

  1. “Somebody That I used to Know” – Gotye featuring Kimbra
  2. “Call Me Maybe” – Carly Rae Jepson
  3. “We Are Young” – fun. featuring Janelle Monae
  4. “Payphone” – Maroon 5 featuring Wiz Khalifa
  5. “Lights” – Ellie Goulding
  6. “Glad You Came” – The Wanted
  7. “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” – Kelly Clarkson
  8. “We Found Love” – Rihanna featuring Calvin Harris
  9. “Starships” – Nicki Minaj
  10. “What Makes You Beautiful” – One Direction
  11. “Wild Ones” – Flo Rida featuring Sia
  12. “Set Fire to the Rain” – Adele
  13. “Sexy and I Know It” – LMFAO
  14. “Some Nights” – fun. 
  15. “Wide Awake” – Katy Perry
  16. “Good Feeling” – Flo Rida
  17. “Whistle” – Flo Rida
  18. “One More Night” – Maroon 5
  19. “Drive By” – Train
  20. “The Motto” – Drake featuring Lil Wayne
  21. “Where Have You Been” – Rihanna
  22. “Everybody Talks” – Neon Trees
  23. “Take Care” – Drake featuring Rihanna
  24. “Titanium” – David Guetta
  25. “I Won’t Give Up” – Jason Mraz

Sports

Baseball

League Leaders

Offensive

Average: Buster Posey (SF) – .336

Hits: Derek Jeter (NYY) – 216

Home Runs: Miguel Cabrera (DET) – 44

RBI: Miguel Cabrera (DET) – 139

OPS: Miguel Cabrera (DET) – .999

Stolen Bases: Mike Trout (LAA) – 49

Pitching

Wins: Gio Gonzalez (WSH) – 21

ERA: Clayton Kershaw (LAD) – 2.53

Strikeouts: Justin Verlander (DET) – 239

Complete Games: Justin Verlander (DET) – 6

Shutouts: Felix Hernandez (SEA) – 5

Saves: Jim Johnson (BAL) – 51

MVP

AL – Miguel Cabrera (DET)

NL – Buster Posey (SF)

CY Young

AL – David Price (TB)

NL – R.A. Dickey (NYM)

Rookie of the Year

AL – Mike Trout (LAA)

NL – Bryce Harper (WSH)

World Series

San Francisco Giants sweep the Detroit Tigers 4-0

Basketball

NCAA

Final Four

(1) Kentucky (2) Ohio State (2) Kansas and (4) Louisville

National Championship

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mw-8MFg9WIg

(1) Kentucky over (2) Kansas 67-59

NBA

League Leaders

Points Per Game: Kevin Durant (OKC) – 28.0

Rebounds Per Game: Dwight Howard (ORL) – 14.5

Assists Per Game: Rajon Rondo (BOS) -11.7

All-NBA Team

Kobe Bryant (LAL)

Kevin Durant (OKC)

Dwight Howard (ORL)

LeBron James (MIA)

Chris Paul (LAC)

MVP – LeBron James (MIA)

Rookie of the Year – Kyrie Irving (CLE)

NBA Finals

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8nVEHoAzSjM

Miami Heat over the Oklahoma City Thunder (4-1)

Football

NCAA

Heisman Trophy – Johnny Manziel (Texas A&M)

BCS National Championship

(2) Alabama over (1) Notre Dame 42-14

NFL

League Leaders

Passing Yards: Drew Brees (NO) – 5,177 

Passing Touchdowns: Drew Brees (NO) – 43

Passer Rating: Aaron Rodgers (GB) – 108.0

Rushing Yards: Adrian Peterson (MIN) – 2,097 

Rushing Touchdowns: Arian Foster (HOU) – 15

Receiving Yards: Calvin Johnson (DET) – 1,964

Receiving Touchdowns: James Jones (GB) – 14

Receptions: Calvin Johnson (DET) – 122

AP MVP – Adrian Peterson (MIN)

Super Bowl XLVII

Baltimore Ravens over the San Francisco 49ers (The Harbowl) 34-31

Hockey

League Leaders

Goals: Steven Stamkos (TB) – 60

Assists: Henrik Sedin (VAN) – 67

Points: Evgeni Malkin (PIT) – 109

Hart Memorial Trophy: Evgeni Malkin (PIT)

Stanley Cup

Los Angeles Kings over the New Jersey Devils (4-2)

Did I miss anything? Let me know on Twitter @Mike_PiFF03 or on Facebook.

Also checkout past #TBT Years in Review.

2011

2010

2007

2006

2005

2002

1999

1998

1992

1990

1989

1988

1987

1 Comment Posted on social media, sports

The #Twitter101: My Favorite Follows in 2015

I love Twitter.

I always need to be informed and Twitter is like information crack…always updating, always different, and always interesting.

The beauty of this social media entity, is that YOU can shape your experience by following the outlets and people YOU want to hear from. If you don’t like what they have to say, simply hit the unfollow button. It’s that easy.

I wouldn’t say I have given up on newspapers and magazines. I still love the feel of print in my hands and supporting my favorite media companies. However, I would be lying if I said I wasn’t getting most of my information scrolling through my Twitter timeline. 

Similar to how I manage my blog, I follow reporters, commentators, journalists, comedians, entertainers and publications that talk about sports, movies, music, TV, food…and more sports. 

Of the 1,200 accounts I follow, here are 101 I recommend you checkout. 

Note: THESE ARE NOT RANKINGS. JUST RECOMMENDATIONS

Sports

1. Richard Deitsch

Screen Shot 2015-09-08 at 7.51.52 PM

Nobody does a better job reporting and commenting on Sports Media. 

2. Matt Miller

Screen Shot 2015-09-08 at 8.30.48 PM

Excellent scouting of college football players for the NFL draft, and keeps an eye on their development in the NFL. 

3. Chris Kamka

Screen Shot 2015-09-08 at 8.36.52 PM

Incredible with Chicago and National sports statistics and history. 

4. Jimmy Traina

Screen Shot 2015-09-08 at 8.53.03 PM

Combo of Sports, Pop Culture, and Seinfeld…It’s fun. Like sports are supposed to be. 

5. Lana Berry

Screen Shot 2015-09-08 at 9.36.22 PM

“I like sports more than people” is really all you need. Excellent podcast too. 

6. Sports Illustrated Vault

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 9.21.39 AM

Managed by SI Hot Clicks and Swimsuit rockstar Andy Gray, it’s an excellent resource for sports photos. And SI has been tops in sports photography forever.

7. Ian Rapoport

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 9.42.38 AM

Many rely on ESPN’s Adam Schefter for breaking NFL news. I go to Ian Rapoport. Great info especially when you get your lineup set for Fantasy Football each Sunday morning.

8. Adrian Wojnarowski

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 9.47.23 AM

The BEST for NBA breaking news aka #WojBombs.

9. Zach Harper

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 9.55.51 AM

Come for the basketball talk…stay for everything else…and an awesome Rasheed Wallace background.

10. Andy Isaac

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 9.59.17 AM

Yes. Just. Yes. 

11. Amanda Kaschube

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 10.05.35 AM

Great photos with even better humor…and a killer Josh McCown Twitter impression. 

12. Eric Edholm

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 10.14.49 AM

All things football with reporting, commentary, and strong Fantasy advice as well. 

13. Scott Phillips

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 10.20.51 AM

He’s a pro covering prep and college buckets. A must follow for recruiting news too. 

14. Will Carroll

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 10.24.02 AM

Will’s handle says it all, which is CLUTCH for Fantasy season. 

15. Jessica Kleinschmidt

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 10.29.00 AM

Excellent coverage across multiple sports and even better sense of humor. Appreciation for Space Jam is also a huge plus. 

16. Josh Norris

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 10.38.31 AM

College football and NFL draft things you probably want to read. 

17. Dan Wetzel

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 10.41.25 AM

Dan Wetzel is one of the best sports columnists in the country, period. His work during the Penn State scandal was extraordinary.  

18. Laurence Holmes

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 10.46.39 AM

One of the hardest working people in sports media. Like his radio show, he implements much more than sports in his social media interaction and it makes for a fun experience. 

19. Timothy Burke

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 10.52.26 AM

Providing ALL of the screen grabs, videos and GIFs you need in your life. 

20. Mike Freeman

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 10.57.05 AM

Honest and smart NFL commentary. And way more Trekkie than you. 

21. Julie DiCaro

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 11.03.56 AM

Great blend of all Chicago and national sports with a dash of the other football. I’d also be lying if I said I didn’t look forward to her random Val Kilmer film ranking discussions. 

22. Ryan Sudol

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 11.09.30 AM

Speaking of the other football…Ryan hasn’t converted me yet but he fights the good fight for a sport many like him love, and does other cool stuff. 

23. Joel Qunneville’s Mustache

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 11.17.08 AM

Tweets as strong as Joel Quenneville’s crotch grab. 

24. Spencer Hall

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 11.23.33 AM

“Ever Day Should Be Saturday”, but seriously…might be the most unique account you ever follow. 

25. Chris Mannix

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 11.33.17 AM

The NBA and Boxing should never mix, but Chris seems to pull off covering both sports pretty well. 

26. Matt Bowen

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 11.35.45 AM

The best in the business when it comes to discussing X’s and O’s. You come away significantly smarter after hearing him talk football. 

27. Len Kasper

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 11.40.19 AM

Len is my favorite broadcaster in Chicago (and I’m a White Sox fan). Fun mix of baseball, hockey and music. 

28. Bob McKenzie

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 11.48.19 AM

Bob McKenzie to hockey is what Woj is to basketball…now we have to brainstorm a sweet hashtag whenever he breaks news.

29. Chris Long

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 12.02.13 PM

I don’t really follow many pro athletes because they tend to be…not interesting…Chris Long is a serious exception to that. 

30. Kyle Long

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 12.09.08 PM

Also an exception to the rule…and an avid Game of Thrones fan. 

31. Jason Concepcion

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 1.30.43 PM

He’s a weird cat…but very entertaining when discussing NBA, Video Games and whatever else he does for Grantland. 

32. Herb Lawrence

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 1.39.54 PM

The Realness…and #BruceWeber.

33. The Cauldron

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 1.51.03 PM

They should put on a clinic for producing great sports GIFs and Vines. I’m not even being sarcastic. 

34. Field Yates

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 1.57.58 PM

One of ESPN’s best NFL reporters with Fantasy Football advice that you can trust more than Matthew Berry’s. 

35. Joe Ostrowski

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 2.10.35 PM

Has you covered for point spreads, Fantasy Football, and really anything relevant in sports. 

36. Cee Angi

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 2.16.51 PM

The right amount of snark to go with quality baseball talk. 

37. Greg Wyshynski

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 2.22.04 PM

Despite what his Twitter bio leads to believe, he’s not that drunk…I don’t think. 

38. John Buccigross

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 2.28.10 PM

He’s rocking the suburbs…just like Quiet Riot did. 

39. JJ Watt

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 2.35.42 PM

I’m convinced he and The Rock are having a secret battle for most interesting guy on social media. 

40. Susannah Collins

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 2.39.48 PM

Fellow hater of Jim Belushi…which is a HUGE plus. 

41. Robert Flores

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 2.44.39 PM

RoFlo is very fun on SportsCenter…and WAY more fun on Twitter. Very appreciative of his WWE stuff too. 

42. Ben Rosen

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 2.53.16 PM

A victim of that jerk that steals people’s work to post on Instagram and shan’t be named…and deserves way more credit.

43. Paul Charchian

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 3.04.13 PM

If there was a Hunger Games for Fantasy Gurus, I think Paul would pick the best lineup of allies to help him survive till the end. 

44. AJ Francis

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 3.07.17 PM

AJ has been a favorite follow of mine since his college days at Maryland, and the dude does NOT slow down. It’s fantastic. 

45. Jeff Mangurten

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 3.11.45 PM

When the Chicago Bulls are on the floor, this is the best person to follow. Especially if you love stats. 

46. Michelle Beadle

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 4.06.02 PM

I’m sure she’s joking but I’d like for her to be right^…But she usually is about most stuff. 

47. Brandon McCarthy

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 4.10.10 PM

It’s tough to top this gem, but he’s still pretty good. 

48. Chris Kluwe

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 4.17.05 PM

Former NFL Punter, Gamer, Rocker, and unafraid to apparently refer to the NFL as a dumpster fire.

49. Ken Rosenthal

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 4.24.05 PM

Like Woj for the NBA and McKenzie for the NHL, this man in a bow tie is the one who knocks…for MLB.

50. Awful Announcing

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 4.28.19 PM

We begin the list of 50 sports accounts with a sports media journalist, and close it with another…a very necessary one for many of us, based on the name.

Music

51. Greg Kot

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 10.19.24 PM

Concert and album reviews, breaking news, and festival act recommendations that have all proven to be more than right.

52. Josh Terry

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 10.42.24 PM

I want to buy this guy a beer sometime and maybe talk about music with him.

53. Tom Mantzouranis

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 2.13.31 PM

The bio says it all and it’s never too anything for me. 

54. Riot Fest

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 10.51.42 PM

My favorite is the daily sassing the manager executes on unsuspecting followers, who may need better parenting…and the John Stamos obsession mixed with punk appreciation. 

55. Jason Thomas

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 11.26.15 PM

He is the modern rock DJ on the modernist rocking station in Chicago…And he’s got great taste.

56. Consequence of Sound

Screen Shot 2015-09-09 at 11.42.16 PM

My kind of music coverage. 

58. Josh Radnor

Screen Shot 2015-09-10 at 12.11.40 AM

This should come as no shock, but Ted Mosby promotes good music and recommends some excellent listening almost daily. 

59. Ernest Wilkins

Screen Shot 2015-09-10 at 12.23.47 AM

His pinned tweet is all you need.^

60. O.A.R.

Screen Shot 2015-09-10 at 12.32.35 AM

You didn’t think I’d leave my favorite band off my favorite follows list, did you? 

Movies

61. Erik Childress

Screen Shot 2015-09-10 at 2.50.16 PM

Amazing critic with a keen sense for calling others out on their bullshit. 

62. Brian Chimino

Screen Shot 2015-09-10 at 2.58.27 PM

The truth is that I try to keep pace watching new releases with this guy. Oscars season is coming. 

63. Empire Magazine

Screen Shot 2015-09-10 at 3.09.24 PM

Excellent resource out of the UK with a specialty in sci-fi and action. 

64. Hollywood Reporter

Screen Shot 2015-09-10 at 3.17.41 PM

While THR handles just about everything in entertainment, I go to them the most when it comes to film and casting news. 

65. Matt Pais

Screen Shot 2015-09-10 at 3.27.18 PM

He was dead on about my favorite movie of the year so far, “Me and Earl and The Dying Girl”…so I trust him. 

66. Michael Phillips

Screen Shot 2015-09-10 at 3.33.53 PM

One of the best in the biz…and one of the harsher, which I enjoy greatly. 

67. Aaron Couch

Screen Shot 2015-09-10 at 3.47.31 PM

He covers the important things in this world, like the Tweet above. 

68. Zimbio

Screen Shot 2015-09-10 at 3.54.58 PM

Awesome resource for Pop Culture news, and that includes movies too. 

69. AV Club

Screen Shot 2015-09-10 at 3.57.55 PM

Their cover photo is from “Theodore Rex”, so there’s that…

70. Death Star PR

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 10.45.48 AM

A necessary evil for Star Wars fans…Especially with the new episodes coming. 

TV

71. Jill Slattery

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 10.53.46 AM

One of my favorite people to talk TV with…and I have her to blame for my Stephen Amell “Guy Love“.

72. Patton Oswalt

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 11.10.51 AM

Besides taking down joke thieves, great social commentary, and comedy…he also shows up in all your favorite TV shows. I also know what’s going on in Downton Abbey without ever seeing after his live-tweet sessions. 

73. John Stamos

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 11.14.52 AM

Because “Whatever happened to predictability…?”

74. Stephen Colbert

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 11.20.13 AM

Week 1 of his rendition of “The Late Show” has been a hit. The extra stuff he shares from the share are also worth checking out. 

75. Ken Levine

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 11.25.17 AM

He’s got a neat blog too. 

76. This Guy, Manu…

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 11.30.45 AM

Unbelievably good “Game of Thrones” commentary, and open to a lot of fun TV/anything discussions.

77. The Simpsons

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 11.38.24 AM

This really goes for ANY account Simpsons related because it’s always the best. 

78. Fargo (FX)

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 11.47.54 AM

Good TV shows understand the power of Twitter and connecting with it’s audience. The Fargo account is particularly good at it, while also making you read their tweets like you’re from Minnesota or whatever. 

79. The Muppets

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 11.53.26 AM

If you don’t like The Muppets, then burn your television…and whatever device it is you’re reading this on. 

80. Kumail Nanjiani

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 11.58.42 AM

Much like Patton Oswalt before, you’re seeing Kumail on A LOT of your favorite TV shows these days…and he’s hilarious. 

Food

81. Epic Meal Time

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 12.02.13 PM

These folks take your wildest dreams, crank them to 11, and make them into reality. 

82. Chicagoist

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 12.08.30 PM

You really don’t have an excuse “not knowing” where to go to eat in Chicago when you can refer to this site for ideas. 

83. Food Truck Finder

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 12.10.27 PM

Great resource for an awesome dining experience.

84. Daily Meal

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 12.13.23 PM

Love their lists and recommendations. 

85. Dan Salmassian

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 12.15.51 PM

*Homer Simpson drooling noises*

86. DudeLetsEat

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 12.18.25 PM

87. Chicago Pizza Tours

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 12.22.49 PM

As a fellow pizza enthusiast, I endorse their work. 

88. Chicago’s Best

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 12.28.21 PM

If there was a food porn channel, this show would be in prime time.

89. Piece

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 12.31.00 PM

Mine and Dave Grohl’s favorite hangout in Chicago. 

90. RedEye Eat & Drink

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 12.39.39 PM

Again…you have no excuse for not having plans tonight. 

Best of the Rest

91. Elliott Serano

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 12.42.38 PM

King of Geeks…and also one of the coolest. 

92. Rex Hupke

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 12.50.52 PM

Rex Huppke wins way more than Donald Trump does. 

93. The Onion

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 12.53.37 PM

You know exactly why you should follow this account…Otherwise you’ll likely end up being pointed out as being one of those people take Onion headlines/articles seriously. 

94. Billy Eichner

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 12.57.55 PM

I read all of his tweets as if he’s yelling at me…and I like it. 

95. Michael Beschloss

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 1.02.13 PM

Incredible historical photos everyday.  

96. Pete Souza

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 1.05.11 PM

More outstanding photography. 

97. Saved You A Click

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 1.07.14 PM

My social media spirit animal. 

98. Cute Emergency

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 1.13.46 PM

Killing you with cuteness. 

99. Mayhem

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 1.16.47 PM

AllState isn’t paying me for this (they should), but Mayhem is the best TV spokesman today. 

100. Snoopy

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 1.19.19 PM

There’s a piece of all of us that just can’t get enough of Snoopy. 

101. Tig Notaro

Screen Shot 2015-09-11 at 1.22.21 PM

Tig Notaro doesn’t actually do any tweeting, but all her sorta famous friends do for her…and sometimes it’s magic. 

Have some of your own favorite Twitter accounts that I left out? Let me know on Facebook or Twitter. 

Mad that I left you out? Don’t take it personally…There’s always next year. 

2 Comments Posted on #TBT Year in Review

#TBT Year in Review: 2002

In the last palindrome year you’ll see until 2112…

  • The Winter Olympics were held in Salt Lake City, Utah
  • NASA discovered water ice deposits on the planet Mars. 
  • The Sims became the all-time best selling computer game.
  • Joe Strummer of the Clash passed away at the age of 50. 

And here’s what happened in Movies, Music and Sports…

Movies

Comedy

National Lampoon’s Van Wilder, Austin Powers: Goldmember, Punch Drunk Love, About a Boy, Mr. Deeds, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, Friday After Next, Sweet Home Alabama, 40 Days and 40 Nights, The New Guy, Barbershop, Adaptation, Two Weeks Notice, Kung Pow! Enter the Fist, I Spy, Undercover Brother, Showtime, Bubba Ho-Tep, Slackers, AND…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjnJzy_EqoE

Jackass: The Movie

Action/Thriller

Spider-Man, Minority Report, The Transporter, 007: Die Another Day, Panic Room, Red Dragon, Signs, Murder By Numbers, Blade II, The Sum of All Fears, Phone Booth, K-19 The Widowmaker, Equilibrium, Swimfan, Star Trek Nemesis, 28 Days Later, Insomnia, One Hour Photo, XXX, Resident Evil, Changing Lanes, Reign of Fire, The Ring, Enough, Bad Company, Collateral Damage, AND…

The Bourne Identity

Drama

Catch Me If You Can, Gangs of New York, 8 Mile, The Pianist, City of God, The Hours, 25th Hour, Secretary, About Schmidt, We Were Soldiers, Frida, Chicago, Antwone Fisher, Far From Heaven, The Magdalene Sisters, A Walk To Remember, Road to Perdition, Unfaithful, Amen, Bloody Sunday, The Count of Monte Cristo, AND…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jey7pZxwWl8

John Q

The 75th Academy Awards

Best Actor

  • Nicolas Cage, Adaptation
  • Michael Caine, The Quiet American
  • Daniel Day-Lewis, Gangs of New York
  • Jack Nicholson, About Schmidt
  • Adrien Brody, The Pianist – Winner

(Adrien Brody won his only nomination, and kissed Halle Berry in the process) 

Best Supporting Actor

  • John C. Reilly, Gangs of New York
  • Christopher Walken, Catch Me If You Can
  • Ed Harris, The Hours
  • Paul Newman, Road to Perdition
  • Chris Cooper, Adaptation – Winner

(This was Chris Cooper’s only Oscar nomination)

Best Actress

  • Salma Hayek, Frida
  • Diane Lane, Unfaithful
  • Julianne Moore, Far From Heaven
  • Renee Zellweger, Chicago
  • Nicole Kidman, The Hours – Winner

(Nicole Kidman won once out of 3 Oscar nominations, also for Moulin Rouge and Rabbit Hole)

Best Supporting Actress

  • Kathy Bates, About Schmidt
  • Julianne Moore, The Hours
  • Queen Latifah, Chicago
  • Meryl Streep, Adaptation
  • Catherine Zeta-Jones, Chicago – Winner

(Like Brody and Cooper, this was Catherine Zeta-Jones’s only nomination and win)

Music

Rock Albums

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Hip Hop Albums

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Pop Albums

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Billboard Year-End Top 25 Songs

  1. “How You Remind Me” – Nickelback
  2. “Foolish” – Ashanti
  3. “Hot in Herre” – Nelly
  4. “Dilemma” – Nelly featuring Kelly Rowland
  5. “Wherever You Will Go” – The Calling
  6. “A Thousand Miles” – Vanessa Carlton
  7. “In the End” – Linkin Park
  8. “What’s Luv” – Fat Joe featuring Ashanti
  9. “U Got It Bad” – Usher
  10. “Blurry” – Puddle of Mudd
  11. “Complicated” – Avril Lavigne
  12. “Always on Time” – Ja Rule featuring Ashanti
  13. “Ain’t It Funny” – Jennifer Lopez featuring Ja Rule
  14. “The Middle” – Jimmy Eat World
  15. “I Need a Girl (Part One)” – P. Diddy featuring Usher and Loon
  16. “U Don’t Have to Call” –
  17. “Family Affair” – Mary J. Blige 
  18. “I Need A Girl (Part Two) – P. Diddy featuring Ginuwine and Loon
  19. “Gansta Lovin” – Eve featuring Alicia Keys
  20. “My Sacrifice” – Creed
  21. “Without Me” – Eminem
  22. “Hero” – Enrique Iglesias
  23. “All You Wanted” – Michelle Branch
  24. “Get the Party Started” – Pink
  25. “Hero” – Chad Kroeger featuring Josey Scott

Sports

Baseball

League Leaders

Offensive

Average: Barry Bonds (SF) – .370

Hits: Alfonso Soriano (NYY) – 209

Home Runs: Alex Rodriguez (TEX) – 57

RBI: Alex Rodriguez (TEX) – 142

OPS: Barry Bonds (SF) – 1.381

Stolen Bases: Luis Castillo (FLA) – 48

Pitching

Wins: Randy Johnson (AZ) – 24

ERA: Pedro Martinez (BOS) – 2.26

Strikeouts: Randy Johnson (AZ) – 334

Complete Games: Randy Johnson (AZ) & Bartolo Colon (CLE/MON)

Shutouts: AJ Burnett (FLA) – 5

Saves: John Smoltz (ATL) – 55

MVP

AL – Miguel Tejada (OAK)

NL – Barry Bonds (SF)

CY Young

AL – Barry Zito (OAK)

NL – Randy Johnson (AZ)

Rookie of the Year

AL – Eric Hinske (TOR)

NL – Jason Jennings (COL)

World Series

Anaheim Angels over San Francisco Giants (4-3)

Basketball

NCAA

Final Four

(1) Maryland, (1) Kansas, (2) Oklahoma, and (5) Indiana

National Championship

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKCga55OuUA

(1) Maryland over (5) Indiana 64-52

NBA

League Leaders

Points Per Game: Allen Iverson (PHI) – 31.4

Rebounds Per Game: Ben Wallace (DET) – 13.0

Assists Per Game: Andre Miller (CLE) – 10.9

All-NBA Team

Kobe Bryant (LAL)

Tim Duncan (SA)

Jason Kidd (NJ)

Tracy McGrady (ORL)

Shaquille O’Neal (LAL)

MVP – Tim Duncan (SA)

Rookie of the Year – Pau Gasol (MEM)

NBA Finals

https://youtu.be/H5Ss2sd5aJk?t=1h6m35s

Los Angeles Lakers sweep New Jersey Nets (4-0)

Football

NCAA

Heisman Trophy – Carson Palmer, USC

National Championship

(1) Ohio State over (2) Miami 31-24 in the Fiesta Bowl

NFL

League Leaders

Passing Yards: Rich Gannon (OAK) – 4,689

Passing Touchdowns: Tom Brady (NE) – 28

Passer Rating: Chad Pennington (NYJ) – 104.2

Rushing Yards: Ricky Williams (MIA) – 1,853

Rushing Touchdowns: Priest Holmes (KC) – 21

Receiving Yards: Marvin Harrison (IND) – 1,722

Receiving Touchdowns: Terrell Owens (SF) – 13

Receptions: Marvin Harrison (IND) – 143

AP MVP – Rich Gannon (OAK)

Super Bowl XXXVII

Tampa Bay Buccaneers over Oakland Raiders 48-21

Hockey

League Leaders

Goals: Jarome Iginla (CGY) – 52

Assists: Adam Oates (WSH/PHI) – 64

Points Jarome Iginla (CGY) – 96

Hart Memorial Trophy – Jose Theodore, MTL

Stanley Cup

Detroit Red Wings over Carolina Hurricanes (4-1)

Did I miss anything? Let me know on Twitter @Mike_PiFF03 or on Facebook.

Also checkout past #TBT Years in Review.

2011

2010

2007

2006

2005

1999

1998

1992

1990

1989

1988

1987

1 Comment Posted on history, sports

President Obama’s Birthday and All His Sportiness

The 44th President of the United States LOVES his sports. He is an unapologetic Chicago White Sox fan. He fills out March Madness brackets for both Men and Women’s tournaments on SportsCenter each year. He also has no problem mixing it up on the White House basketball court.

Air Obama

So on his 54th birthday, lets put the partisan blah blah blah on the back-burner and appreciate something we all enjoy…Sports.

March Madness

Presidential Bracket

I look forward to the President’s annual segment on ESPN where he joins the rest of the nation in the Madness. Since he was elected, President Obama is interviewed by college basketball reporter Andy Katz from the White House to talk out each of his picks. Last year he took regular season undefeated favorite Kentucky to win it all (like many of you did) over Nova, and was obviously incorrect as Duke beat Wisconsin in the National Championship.

President Obama finished in ESPN’s 72.9 percentile in 2014 and was most successful in 2011 with a bracket in the 87.4%. Both years, UConn won the National Championship and he didn’t pick them. The President did choose a National Champion for his first year in office, North Carolina in 2009.

ESPN isn’t the only network who gets to share air-time with the Commander in Chief as one of CBS’s best color analysts, Clark Kellogg, took him on in a game of HORSE…err POTUS.

I don’t even want to know what would’ve happen if the President got skunked.

He Loves His Chicago Teams

President Chicago Teams

Despite referring to his White Sox’s home stadium as “Kaminskey Field” early in his first term, the President has never wavered as a Chicago die hard. When the Bulls re-signed All-Star Jimmy Butler to a longterm deal, he was on it…

(Props to my old teammate Matt Rodewald for getting that tweet picked up)

Before the Blackhawks hit the ice for Game 6, President Obama was leading the chants from Twitter…

And wore his lucky hockey sweater while doing so.

While touring Cooperstown a year ago, the President asked to try on the White Sox World Series ring.

Screen Shot 2015-08-04 at 2.35.07 PM

…and then donated the Sox jacket he wore to throw out the first pitch at the 2009 All-Star Game to the Baseball Hall of Fame.

The President even hosted a White House visit for the Super Bowl winning 1985 Bears team, because they never got the chance to do so before. 

President and Ditka

(Ironic that it was Mike Ditka handing the President his jersey since he also wanted to run against him for a Senate seat in 2004)

The ’85 Bears and the Blackhawks may be the only Chicago teams that the President has hosted at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, but he always seems to get a quick shoutout in for his favorite squads when he hosts other teams.

White House Host with the Most

We all remember the drama surrounding Red Sox DH David Ortiz’s selfie with the President and the handful of athletes who make a thing out of not going to visit the White House, despite it being a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity (looking at you, Tim Thomas)…

But damn, do those photo ops turn out great.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

For more, follow along on Facebook and Twitter

1 Comment Posted on Movies, sports

Ranking Trainwreck’s Sports Moments

I didn’t know how sports-centric Amy Schumer’s sorta-RomCom feature would be prior to seeing it yesterday. Sure Bill Hader’s character is a sports physician/surgeon and his closest friend in the film is LeBron James, but Judd Apatow goes above and beyond in sports-ness throughout the film.

If you haven’t seen “Trainwreck” yet, I’ll warn you that there are spoilers ahead…but you should have assumed that before clicking. Let’s take a look at the numerous cameos and references that made a generally “okay” movie a little bit better.

10. Hader Sports Trivia

In an effort to distract Amy’s dad (Colin Quinn) while sewing up stitches for him following a fall in an assisted living home, Bill Hader asks him a Trivia question that many sports fans have been asking to kill time or break the ice with for years…

“Which 9 Pro Sports Team Names Don’t End With ‘S’…?”

  1. Tampa Bay Lightning 
  2. Minnesota Wild
  3. Colorado Avalanche
  4. Miami Heat
  5. Utah Jazz
  6. Orlando Magic
  7. Boston Red Sox
  8. Chicago White Sox
  9. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

You’re welcome…for future parties.

9. Amy’s Cheerleader Number

Anyone who tells me that Cheerleading isn’t a sport is dead wrong. This scene is certainly evidence of that. While it also puts the icing on the cake to define “Trainwreck” as a RomCom (like as How To Lose A Guy in 10 Days as it gets), it’s actually a super impressive scene. Schumer said herself that it took 2 and a half months to train for the scene…and at least 10 takes.

The reason I didn’t rank this higher, despite the admirable effort by Schumer, the scene and its conclusion made me walk away feeling like I just watched an Adam Sandler movie. Not a good thing.

8. “Dallas Sucks”, Tony Romo

Tony Romo Trainwreck

Kind of a sleeper in this film is Amare Stoudamire and his handful of scenes, despite being a real focal point to the movie’s plot. It’s awkward and a little dated because Amare isn’t even in New York anymore, but how can you not appreciate a “Dallas Sucks” heckle when Tony Romo is trying to have a semi-heartfelt moment introducing Hader’s character for an award.

7. John Cena “Dirty Talk”

Screen Shot 2015-08-03 at 11.34.46 AM

I’m going to have a hard time looking at John Cena the same way again…and wash cloths.

In an attempt to spice things up, Amy tells John Cena’s character, Steven, to try talking dirty. Cena warns her that he’s not very good at that but he gives it a shot anyway…It goes from talking about “protein” to his best attempt at a cheesy sports movie coach’s inspirational speech. The sad part is that it pretty much summed up all of the cliches Gene Hackman used in “The Replacements.”

6. Hader hitting a shot on LeBron

Hader Shot Trainwreck

I’ll be more extensive in my appreciation for LeBron James later, but I have to give props to Hader first…He takes a beating for most of this scene while LeBron is trying to give him dating advice and blocking every attempt made. It ends with a Hader jumper from the elbow, a weak contest from LeBron, and the ball hitting nothing but net.

I too would give up playing basketball forever if I hit a shot over LeBron James.

5. Colin Quinn vs. Babe Ruth

Quinn Trainwreck

Anyone else wonder where Colin Quinn had been for the last thousand years? The former SNL ‘Weekend Update’ Anchor opens the film explaining why monogamy is dumb to his kids and that kinda-but-not-really justifies Schumer’s “Trainwreck” behavior throughout the film.

He’s living in an assisted living home due to MS and goes on typical Colin Quinn rants whenever he’s on screen. The best of his rants comes toward the beginning when one of the residents brings up Babe Ruth. As a huge Mets fan, he ruins the old Yankee fan’s dreams by telling him that every latin pitcher today would destroy Babe Ruth…who never played against black ballplayers.

4. Amare really likes Tom Brady’s wife

Screen Shot 2015-08-03 at 12.02.37 PM

As I mentioned earlier, Amare is a serious sleeper in this flick. There is (and isn’t) a lot riding on Hader being able to successfully operate on Amare’s knee to get him back playing for the Knicks.

Sidenote: If this is taking place during the NBA season, why is LeBron spending so much time in New York following Hader around?

Anywho, Amare asks Hader how the procedure went and he is told that it was “Tom Brady” good. That prompts a medically drug induced Amare to profess his love and admiration for Gisele Bundchen.

From “I need me one of those” to “I follow her on Instagram”, that single scene was the perfect contrast to the creepy and gross Tom Brady stalking in “Ted 2”.

3. Marv Albert in the Intervention

Marv Trainwreck

While the scene seemed wildly out of place, and even more Sandler’ish than the cheerleader number, Marv Albert calling play-by-play of an intervention curated by LeBron for Hader following his breakup was too good.

Matthew Broderick and Chris Evert were there as well (why?), but that randomness was subsided by Marv doing his Marv thing.

2. Any and All LeBron Scenes

LeBron James Trainwreck

I want LeBron to be my best friend after seeing this movie.

He makes the movie fun by trying to be a normal dude looking out for his “best friend.” You’re not totally sure if Hader feels the same way about the LeBron, but that makes the chemistry all the more entertaining.

And you giggle like a kid when he gets pumped about “Sexual Intercourse”.

1. Hader’s “Client” Namedropping

Screen Shot 2015-08-03 at 12.41.10 PM

I laughed the loudest (and probably way more than the few people where in the theater with me) at this scene, warranting it’s #1 ranking.

While at a birthday party for Schumer’s nephew, Hader gets the “new boyfriend” treatment from the other guys there. Tim Meadows and Mike Birbiglia ask Hader specifically who he has worked on as a sports surgeon and it goes a little like this…

Bill: “Tom Brady…”

Them: “Wow!”

Bill: “Jay Cutler…”

Them: “Cool.”

Bill: “Alex Rodriguez…”

Tim Meadows: “FUCK THAT GUY!” 

Yep. The “Ladies Man” gets the smallest part in the movie, but drops the best timed punchline over the course of 2 hours and too many more minutes.

Can you think of anything else from “Trainwreck” that sticks out to you? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter. 

5 Comments Posted on #TBT Year in Review

#TBT Year in Review: 2007

In the year that doesn’t feel like it was 8 years ago…

  • Steve Jobs announced the first generation iPhone.
  • J.K. Rowlings releases “Harry Potter and The Deathly Hollows”, the fastest selling book ever.
  • Track Star Marion Jones surrendered her 5 Olympic gold medals after admitting to doping.
  • Legendary 49ers head coach Bill Walsh passed away at the age of 75.
  • 4-time Best Drama Series Emmy award winning Mad Men premiered.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IOUPSj9yzKs (Fingers crossed for Jon Hamm this year) And here’s the what happened in Movies, Music and Sports…

Movies

Comedy

Knocked Up, Superbad, Enchanted, Blades of Glory, Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story, Hot Fuzz, Juno, Evan Almighty, Balls of Fury, Good Luck Chuck, Hot Rod, Death at a Funeral, Lars and the Real Girl, Epic Movie, Wild Hogs, The Game Plan, The Heartbreak Kid, Who’s Your Caddy?, Dan in Real Life, Fred Clause, The Bucket List, Mr. Woodcock, License to Wed, AND… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ovASq1-TfF0

The Simpsons Movie

Action

The Bourne Ultimatum, Grindhouse, Zodiac, Live Free or Die Hard, Transformers, I Am Legend, Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, The Kingdom, Sweeney Todd, Hitman, Death Sentence, 28 Weeks Later, Disturbia, Spiderman 3, Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead, Hannibal Rising, The Mist, Fracture, Ghost Rider, The Condemned, Vacancy, Rush Hour 3, War, Funny Games, Paranormal Activity, Mr. Brooks, The Hitcher, Resident Evil: Extinction AND…

Shooter

Drama

Into the Wild, Gone Baby Gone, Atonement, There Will Be Blood, American Gangster, Michael Clayton, Reign Over Me, Charlie Wilson’s War, The Visitor, The Girl Next Door, Premonition, We Own The Night, 3:10 To Yuma, In the Valley of Elah, PS. I Love You, The Lookout, Across the Universe, The Invisible, Breach, Elizabeth: The Golden Age, The Man From Earth, Control, Evening, Trade, Rendition, The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, Eastern Promises AND…

No Country For Old Men

The 80th Academy Awards

Best Actor

  • George Clooney, Michael Clayton
  • Johnny Depp, Sweeney Todd
  • Tommy Lee Jones, In the Valley of Elah
  • Viggo Mortensen, Eastern Promises
  • Daniel Day-Lewis, There Will Be Blood – Winner

(This was the 2nd of Daniel Day-Lewis’s 3 Best Actor Oscar wins)

Best Supporting Actor

  • Tom Wilkinson, Michael Clayton
  • Casey Affleck, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford
  • Philip Seymour Hoffman, Charlie Wilson’s War
  • Hal Holbrook, Into the Wild
  • Javier Bardem, No Country for Old Men – Winner

(It was Javier Bardem’s first win out of 3 Oscar nominations)

Best Actress

  • Cate Blanchett, Elizabeth: The Golden Age
  • Julie Christie, Away From Her
  • Laura Linney, The Savages
  • Ellen Page, Juno
  • Marion Cotillard, La Vie en Rose – Winner

(Marion Cotillard has been nominated twice for Best Leading Actress. This was her first win)

Best Supporting Actress

  • Cate Blanchett, I’m Not There
  • Ruby Dee, American Gangster
  • Saoirse Ronan, Atonement
  • Amy Ryan, Gone Baby Gone
  • Tilda Swinton, Michael Clayton – Winner

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6E2z-1Mi6Zo (Swinton is batting 1.000 going one-for-one in Oscar nominations and awards, so far)

Best Picture

  • Atonement
  • Juno
  • Michael Clayton
  • There Will Be Blood
  • No Country For Old Men – Winner

(Won 4 of the 8 Oscars it was nominated, including Best Writing and Directing)

Music

Rock Albums

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Hip Hop Albums

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Pop Albums

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Billboard Year-End Top 25

01. “Irreplaceable” – Beyonce

02. “Umbrella” – Rihanna

03. “The Sweet Escape” – Gwen Stefani and Akon

04. “Big Girls Don’t Cry” – Fergie

05. “Buy U a Drank (Shawty Snappin’)” – T-Pain featuring Young Joc

06. “Before He Cheats” – Carrie Underwood

07. “Hey There Delilah” – Plain White T’s

08. “I Wanna Love You” – Akon featuring Snoop Dogg

09. “Say It Right” – Nelly Furtado

10. “Glamorous” – Fergie featuring Ludacris

11. “Don’t Matter” – Akon

12. “Girlfriend” – Avril Lavigne

13. “Makes Me Wonder” – Maroon 5

14. “Party Like a Rockstar” – Shop Boyz

15. “Smack That” – Akon featuring Eminem

16. “This Is Why I’m Hot” – Mims

17. “It’s Not Over” – Daughtry

18. “The Way I Are” – Timbaland featuring Keri Hilson

19. “Fergalicious” – Fergie featuring will.i.am. 

20. “Crank That (Soulja Boy) – Soulja Boy Tell’em

21. “Give It To Me” – Timbaland featuring Nelly Furtado and Justin Timberlake

22. “What Goes Around…Comes Around” – Justin Timberlake

23. “Cupid’s Chokehold” – Gym Class Heroes featuring Patrick Stump

24. “How To Save A Life” – The Fray

25. “Home” – Daughtry

Sports

Baseball

League Leaders

Offensive

Average: Magglio Ordonez (DET) – .363

Hits: Ichiro Suzuki (SEA) – 238

Home Runs: Alex Rodriguez (NYY) – 54

RBI: Alex Rodriguez (NYY) – 156

OPS: Alex Rodriguez (NYY) – 1.067

Stolen Bases: Jose Reyes (NYM) – 78

Pitching

Wins: Josh Beckett (BOS) – 20

ERA: Jake Peavy (SD) – 2.54

Strikeouts: Jake Peavy (SD) – 240

Complete Games: Roy Halladay (TOR) – 7

Shutouts: Brandon Webb (AZ) – 3

Saves: Jose Valverde (AZ) – 47

MVP

AL – Alex Rodriguez (NYY) 

NL – Jimmy Rollins (PHI)

CY Young

AL – CC Sabathia (CLE) NL – Jake Peavy (SD)

Rookie of the Year

AL – Dustin Pedroia (BOS)

NL – Ryan Braun (MIL) 

World Series

Boston Red Sox sweep the Colorado Rockies (4-0)

Basketball

NCAA

Final Four

(1) Florida, (1) Ohio State, (2) Georgetown, (2) UCLA

National Championship

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKQFfeQ2Tpk

(1) Florida over (1) Ohio State 84-75

NBA

League Leaders

Points Per Game: Kobe Bryant (LAL) – 31.6

Rebounds Per Game: Kevin Garnett (MIN) – 12.8

Assists Per Game: Steve Nash (PHX) – 11.6

All-NBA Team

Kobe Bryant (LAL)

Tim Duncan (SA)

Steve Nash (PHX)

Dirk Nowitzki (DAL)

Amar’e Stoudamire (PHX)

MVP – Dirk Nowitzki (DAL)

Rookie of the Year – Brandon Roy (POR)

NBA Finals

San Antionio Spurs sweep Cleveland Cavaliers (4-0)

Football

NCAA

Heisman Trophy – Tim Tebow, Florida

BCS National Title

LSU BCS 2007

(2) LSU over (1) Ohio State 38-24 in the Sugar Bowl

NFL

League Leaders

Passing Yards: Tom Brady (NE) – 4,806

Passing Touchdowns: Tom Brady (NE) – 50

Passer Rating: Tom Brady (NE) – 117.2

Rushing Yards: LaDainian Tomlinson (SD) – 1,474

Rushing Touchdowns: LaDainian Tomlinson (SD) – 15

Receiving Yards: Reggie Wayne (IND) – 1,510

Receiving Touchdowns: Randy Moss (NE) – 23

Receptions: T.J. Houshmandzadeh (CIN) & Wes Welker (NE) – 112

AP MVP: Tom Brady (NE)

Super Bowl XLII

New York Giants over New England Patriots 17-14

Hockey

League Leaders

Goals: Vincent Lecavalier (TB) – 52

Assists: Joe Thornton (SJ) – 92

Points: Sidney Crosby (PIT) – 120

Hart Memorial Trophy: Sidney Crosby (PIT)

Stanley Cup

Anaheim Ducks over Ottawa Senators (4-1)

Did I miss anything? Let me know on Twitter @Mike_PiFF03.

Also checkout past #TBT Years in Review.

2011

2006

2005

1999

1998

1992

1989

1988

1987

7 Comments Posted on #TBT Year in Review

#TBT Year in Review: 1999

As we waited to see what would happen when Y2K hit…

  • The Sopranos debuted on HBO.
  • President Bill Clinton was acquitted in impeachment proceedings.
  • Sega Dreamcast was released in North America,
  • George Harrison was attacked at his home in Friar Park.
  • Wilt Chamberlain passed away at the age of 63.

CHAMBERLAIN

And here’s what happened in the worlds of Movies, Music, and Sports…

Movies

Comedy

American Pie, Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, 10 Things I Hate About You, Notting Hill, Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo, Being John Malkovich, She’s All That, Big Daddy, Galaxy Quest, South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut, Never Been Kissed, Dogma, Stuart Little, Blue Streak, Analyze This, Jawbreaker, Bowfinger, Dick, Idle Hands, Mystery Men, Life, Drive Me Crazy, EDtv, Detroit Rock City, The Bachelor, Superstar, AND…

Office Space

Action/Thriller

The Sixth Sense, The Matrix, Three Kings, The Boondock Saints, End of Days, Deep Blue Sea, The Insider, Universal Soldier: The Return, A Murder of Crows, 8mm, The Talented Mr. Ripley, Double Jeopardy, Instinct, The Bone Collector, The World is Not Enough, The Ninth Gate, Arlington Road, Chill Factor, True Crime, Payback, Resurrection, Stigmata, The Mod Squad, Entrapment, The Astronaut’s Wife, The Rage: Carrie 2, AND…

Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace

Drama

Fight Club, American Beauty, Eyes Wide Shut, Bicentennial Man, Boys Don’t Cry, Anna and the King, Girl Interrupted, Animal Farm, 200 Cigarettes, The Virgin Suicides, October Sky, Great Expectations, Onegin, Flawless, The Hurricane, Brokedown Palace, Magnolia, Cruel Intentions, Random Hearts, All About My Mother, The Winslow Boy, Varsity Blues, The Cider House Rules, The Deep End of the Ocean, Tuesdays with Morrie, Black and White, AND…

The Green Mile

The 72nd Academy Awards

Best Actor

  • Russell Crowe, The Insider
  • Richard Farnsworth, The Straight Story
  • Sean Penn, Sweet and Lowdown
  • Denzel Washington, The Hurricane
  • Kevin Spacey, American Beauty – Winner

(Spacey’s 2nd Oscar. First was Best Supporting Actor in 1996 for The Usual Suspects)

Best Supporting Actor

  • Michael Clarke Duncan, The Green Mile
  • Jude Law, The Talented Mr. Ripley
  • Haley Joel Osment, The Sixth Sense
  • Tom Cruise, Magnolia
  • Michael Caine, The Cider House Rules – Winner 

(Caine’s 2nd win out of 6 nominations.)

Best Actress

  • Annette Benning, American Beauty
  • Janet McTeer, Tumbleweeds
  • Julianne Moore, The End of the Affair
  • Meryl Streep, Music of the Heart
  • Hilary Swank, Boys Don’t Cry – Winner

(This was Swank’s first of two Oscar nominations and awards.)

Best Supporting Actress

  • Toni Collette, The Sixth Sense
  • Catherine Keener, Being John Malkovich
  • Samantha Morton, Sweet and Lowdown
  • Chloe Sevigny, Boys Don’t Cry
  • Angelina Jolie, Girl Interrupted – Winner

(Jolie has also won the Humanitarian Academy Award in 2014)

Best Picture

  • The Cider House Rules
  • The Green Mile
  • The Insider
  • The Sixth Sense
  • American Beauty – Winner

(American Beauty won 5 of the 8 Oscars it was nominated for.)

Music

Rock Albums

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Hip Hop Albums

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Pop Albums

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Billboard Year-End Top 25

01. “Believe” – Cher

02. “No Scrubs” – TLC

03. “Angel of Mine” – Monica

04. “Heartbreak Hotel” – Whitney Houston featuring Faith Evans and Kelly Price

05. “…Baby One More Time” – Britney Spears

06. “Kiss Me” – Sixpence None the Richer

07. “Genie in a Bottle” – Christina Aguilera

08. “Every Morning” – Sugar Ray

09. “Nobody’s Supposed to Be Here” – Deborah Cox

10. “Livin’ la Vida Loca” – Ricky Martin

11. “Where My Girls At?” – 702

12. “If You Had My Love” – Jennifer Lopez

13. “Slide” – Goo Goo Dolls

14. “Have You Ever?” – Brandy

15. “I Want It That Way” – Backstreet Boys

16. “I’m Your Angel” – Celine Dion and R. Kelly

17. “All Star” – Smash Mouth

18. “Angel” – Sarah McLachlan

19. “Smooth” – Santana featuring Rob Thomas

20. “Unpretty” – TLC

21. “Bills, Bills, Bills” – Destiny’s Child

22. “Save Tonight” – Eagle-Eye Cherry

23. “Last Kiss” – Pearl Jam

24. “Fortunate” – Maxwell

25. “All I Have to Give” – Backstreet Boys

Sports

Baseball

League Leaders:

Offensive

Average: Larry Walker (COL) – .379

Hits: Derek Jeter (NYY) – 219

Home Runs: Mark McGwire (STL) – 65

RBI: Manny Ramirez (CLE) – 165

OPS: Larry Walker (COL) – 1.168

Stolen Bases: Tony Womack (AZ)

Pitching

Wins: Pedro Martinez (BOS) – 23

ERA: Pedro Martinez (BOS) – 2.07

Strikeouts: Randy Johnson (AZ) – 364

Complete Games: Randy Johnson (AZ) – 12

Shutouts: Scott Erickson (BAL) & Andy Ashby (SD) – 3

Saves: Mariano Rivera (NYY) – 45

MVP

AL – Ivan Rodriguez (TEX)

NL – Chipper Jones (ATL)

CY Young

AL – Pedro Martinez (BOS)

NL – Randy Johnson (AZ)

Rookie of the Year

AL – Carlos Beltran (KC)

NL – Scott Williamson (CIN)

World Series

New York Yankees sweep Atlanta Braves (4-0)

Basketball

NCAA

Final Four:

(1) Duke, (1) Michigan State, (4) Ohio State and (1) UConn

National Championship:

(1) UConn over (1) Duke 77-74

NBA

League Leaders

Points Per Game: Allen Iverson (PHI) – 26.8

Rebounds Per Game: Chris Webber (SAC) – 13.0

Assists Per Game: Jason Kidd (PHX) – 10.8

All-NBA Team

Tim Duncan (SA)

Allen Iverson (PHI)

Jason Kidd (PHX)

Karl Malone (UTAH)

Alonzo Mourning (MIA)

MVP – Karl Malone (UTAH)

Rookie of the Year – Vince Carter (TOR)

NBA Finals

San Antonio Spurs over New York Knicks (4-1)

Football

NCAA

Heisman Trophy:

Ron Dayne (Wisconsin)

National Championship

(1) Florida State over (2) Virginia Tech 46-29 in the Sugar Bowl

NFL

League Leaders

Passing Yards: Steve Beuerlein (CAR) – 4,436

Passing Touchdowns: Kurt Warner (STL) – 41

Passer Rating: Kurt Warner (STL) – 109.2

Rushing Yards: Edgerrin James (IND) – 1,553

Rushing Touchdowns: Stephen Davis (WAS) – 17

Receiving Yards: Marvin Harrison (IND) – 1,663

Receiving Touchdowns: Cris Carter (MIN) – 13

Receptions: Jimmy Smith (JAX) – 116

AP MVP: Kurt Warner (STL)

Super Bowl XXXIV

St. Louis Rams over Tennessee Titans 23-16

Hockey

League Leaders

Goals: Teemu Selanne (ANA) – 47

Assists: Jaromir Jagr (PIT) – 83

Points: Jaromir Jagr (PIT) – 127

Hart Memorial Trophy: Jaromir Jagr (PIT)

Stanley Cup

Dallas Stars over Buffalo Sabres (4-2)

Did I miss anything? Let me know on Twitter @Mike_PiFF03.

Also checkout past #TBT Years in Review.

2011

2006

2005

1998

1992

1989

1987

1 Comment Posted on Movies, sports

Sports Crazies: Who Belongs in ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’?

It’s a lovely day, isn’t it?

The early reviews are in on ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ and it sounds like every synonym that applies to “epic”. The post-apocalyptic franchise returns after the last film hit theaters 30 years ago with a new leading man (the VERY MAD Tom Hardy) and a setting that gives zero F-words to the original timeline. However, it’s directed by George Miller, who created this mad world, so any worry of integrity and fears of Hollywood reboots can be set aside.

Mad Max gif

In the REAL WORLD, our professional sports universe is filled with all walks of life. Good guys, bad guys, heroes, cheaters…gentlemen & ladies, scumbags and…I don’t even know.

Here, we are going to focus on the CRAZIES in pro sports. Not necessarily the guys you would qualify as “bad guys”, but more of the unhinged, whacky, screw-loose variety…And Monty Williams.

MLB

Adrian Beltre, Texas Rangers

Just one home run away from the 400 club, a 4-time All-Star, an MVP runner-up in 2004, stats comparable to Dave Parker, Al Kaline, and Eddie Murray (according to Baseball Reference)…Adrian Beltre is all of these, but he’s also a ticking time bomb. It’s been thoroughly documented on that Beltre hates when people touch his head, yet his teammates and opponents continue to do it. If you ask me, he is one Elvis Andrus prank away form yelling “BELTRE SMASH!”

Beltre gif

Bryce Harper, Washington Nationals

Bryce Harper is a hot item these days and likely will be for quite a while. He made it into our Mad Men of MLB list a month ago, but the home run “hair flip” keeps the momentum going. Not only is he hitting out of his mind (12 HRs, 31 RBIs, 1.119 OPS in 35 games), he’s challenging umpires to Thunderdome too…Okay not exactly, but bat flips and hair flips will get it done.

Bryce Harper Hair Flip

NBA

Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City Thunder

Russell. Is. Crazy.…And he’s crazy good. Had his team made the playoffs, Westbrook could and probably should have been the NBA’s MVP this season. He earned the NBA’s scoring title by averaging 28.1 points per game, recorded 11 triple-doubles, yet none of it mattered to him…

On top of the accolades and establishing himself as not the Robin to Kevin Durant’s “Batman” (he’s more Superman, or a second Batman), he has no regard for his own safety…and it’s entertaining as hell.

Russell Westbrook hits his head

DeMarcus Cousins, Sacramento Kings

This description comes from Boogie’s scouting report from Jonathan Wasserman before he was drafted from Kentucky in 2010.

“Cousins’ lack of maturity and mental focus is evident in his negative body language and lack of composure … He tends to lose his head, looking disinterested or frustrated if things don’t go his way. Also does not appear receptive to coaching, tuning out his coaches when they attempt to give him advice on the bench …”

Since then, the 5th overall pick has averaged a double-double with 18.9 points and 12.4 rebounds per game, was named an NBA All-Star this past season, and was a member of last summer’s FIBA Champion Team USA squad….and he’ll also be the “Blaster” to any of his teammates’ “Master”.

Cousins Blaster

…and you don’t want to get in Boogie Blaster’s way.

Cousins Destroy

NFL

Dez Bryant, Dallas Cowboys

When you get a FOX Sports camera basically dedicated to your every movement on the sidelines, you probably deserve a mention in this post…As the Dallas Cowboys continue the all-time worst PR roster this year, Dez Bryant remains a figure of intrigue while he accepts the team’s franchise tag. Bryant was the center of rumors that seemed to gain steam in the winter regarding a video that was said to have made Ray Rice look like a choir boy. It remained just a rumor though…Bryant hasn’t signed his tender yet but once he does, the Cowboys sidelines will remain much anticipated theater.

Dez Bryant crazy

Martellus Bennett, Chicago Bears

Martellus Bennett is a different kind of cat, to say the least…He’s not demonstrative like Bryant, but he certainly is out there. It’s very cool how in-touch he is with his creative side. He’s into animation, writing children’s stories and challenges his Twitter following to open their imaginations…That odd side doesn’t necessarily translate to the field, but more so off the field in front of the local media. When he was first introduced to Chicago after signing his current contract, he asked to be referred to as “The Black Unicorn”, the “Orange Dinosaur”, and “Martysaurus Rex”…But don’t mistake his fun and soft side as weakness, Rookies…

Martysaurus Slam

NHL

Andrew Shaw, Chicago Blackhawks

Really you could apply this post to EVERYONE in the NHL. Guys pull their teeth out during games just to get comfortable. Fighting is legal. Reporters on the ice get hit with pucks, bleed, and shake it off to keep doing their jobs…

In anticipation of the Western Conference Finals coming up, we’ll go with the scrappiest (and craziest) guy you’ll see on the ice, Andrew Shaw. The 5’11, 23 year-old forward isn’t afraid to mix it up with anyone, anywhere…even from the bench. The fact that he sold his bloody stitches from the last Stanley Cup Finals he won for charity should be enough to qualify him as Fury Road material.

Andrew Shaw crazy

Zdeno Chara, Boston Bruins

If the Mad Max franchise has provided anything, it’s a litany of freaks and things of the unimaginable. Fury Road sounds no different, so why not include the NHL’s most impressive circus attraction…Zdeno Chara. Chara is 6’9 without skates and carries a very heavy stick, but apparently the Slovak skater also grew up in a castle that housed history’s most infamous female serial killer. So there’s THAT the next time Chara comes barreling into you on skates.

Zdeno Chara slide

Who else belongs in Mad Max: Fury Road? Going to see the movie this weekend? Lets talk about it on Twitter @Mike_PiFF03.