The year 2019 was definitely interesting for me. I got a new job, I helped my parents move out of my childhood home and into their new home, and our apartment complex underwent renovations (on the outside--roof, windows). The last year of the 2010s was a memorable one for me, and I'm thinking 2020 will be just as memorable. I will discuss my thoughts and hopes for the upcoming year, from my personal to professional life.
I cannot state this enough: I need to lose weight. I don't consider myself obese, but overweight, yes. I am not expecting this to happen overnight or even over just one month. I think it may take close to all year. But I am going to put my mind to it. I need to find some way to work out fairly consistently, and start planning lighter and healthier meals. I'd like to lose 50 pounds over the course of next year, which would be an incredible amount, but I'd even be happy with 20-30. I do not have a set plan yet, but I am going to give myself goals and rewards for reaching weight milestones. For example, I cannot eat one of my favorite (unhealthy) foods until I've lost 20 pounds. I will continue to make choices which involve more exercise, such as taking the stairs instead of the escalator/elevator, and eating the healthier option if I eat out. I just don't like my self-image very much right now; and I know if I got back to the shape I was in in my early 20's, I would be so much more confident and happier.
Professionally, I don't know if I necessarily want to change jobs (already), but I will keep my options open. I will continue to look at jobs, and if one pops up that I think would be a really good fit for me, I may go for it. I do like where I am now, but it's not a job that someone stays at for years and years. I also want to make a bit more money. I will probably go back on some of the job sites (Indeed, ZipRecruiter) and opt-in to the e-mails again so that I can see what's out there.
I want to travel in 2020 for sure. It may not be until the summer or even Christmas season, but I don't think I've flown to California in three or four years. I haven't seen Amanda's family in that long, either. I will do my best to get some time off to go with her somewhere, whether that be in the summer or for Christmas. Christmas falls on a Friday next year, so it would be a great opportunity to get a three day weekend and travel to see her family. Which reminds me, I also will have to either get my first ever passport or an enhanced driver's license. I also want to see a Seahawks game next year; I saw one in 2018 but not this year. I want to take Amanda to one in 2020, as she's only seen one Seahawk game, and that was in 2011.
Next year will also be big for news. We're going to have a presidential election in November, and hopefully get a new president. The 2020 Summer Olympics will happen in Tokyo. There are other things, but let's not forget it's also the first year of a new decade. Also, when before some people were starting the current year "Two thousand-", they now almost all will start calling the year "Twenty-Twenty". Not many people are going to say "Year Two-Thousand Twenty". They'll say "Twenty-Twenty".
There are a couple other things that might happen in 2020, but I am not entirely sure. I may get a new car, but that could wait until 2021 or later. I may get a new computer, as my current one is having issues, as it is pretty old (around a decade old) and runs Windows Vista. But I also want to build up my savings next year after the hit it took this year. There are a couple other big things that might happen in 2020, but are personal to me, and I'll share them on here if they do end up happening.
I am excited for 2020 and what it brings. I'm very curious to see how much my life changes in the next year. I am really hoping for an improved me by this time next year. I know that sounds all very cliche, but it's very true for me. I am going to be that 2020 will be a significant year in my life, even more so than 2019 was.
Tuesday, December 31, 2019
Monday, December 30, 2019
2019-2020 NFL Playoffs – Predictions and Top 10 Super Bowl Matchups!
The 2019 NFL regular season is over, and the playoffs start next weekend. Who will be playing in Super Bowl LIV in
Miami? I’m going to predict the
playoffs, even including scores, and then afterwards I will list my top 10
Super Bowl matchups.
Wild Card Round
AFC:
(6) Titans at (3) Patriots: Titans 24, Patriots 20
Yup. The Patriots get upset at home in the playoffs. Tennessee is the more complete team and more physically imposing, and Derrick Henry has a great day.
(5) Bills at (4) Texans: Bills 19, Texans 17
The Bills defense is really good. The Texans defense isn’t that good. I see yet another upset here, with Josh Allen winning his first ever playoff game.
NFC:
(6) Vikings at (3) Saints: Saints 30, Vikings 23
No Minneapolis Miracle here, especially since the game is in New Orleans this time. The Vikings claw back from a deficit but are unable to get another opportunity to score.
(5) Seahawks at (4) Eagles: Eagles 27, Seahawks 19
One and done for the Hawks. The Seahawks are not the same team that played Philadelphia over a month ago, and the Eagles are playing better football since then. Result: Eagles win.
Divisional Round
AFC:
(6) Titans at (1) Ravens: Ravens 34, Titans 21
The Titans have trouble keeping up with a rested and efficient Ravens team.
(5) Bills at (2) Chiefs: Chiefs 26, Bills 17
Arrowhead in January proves too much for these Bills. The Chiefs won’t light up the scoreboard, but neither will the Bills.
NFC:
(4) Eagles at (1) 49ers: 49ers 28, Eagles 13
The 49ers defense dominates, getting turnovers and sacks galore. The 49ers have control of the game all game long and mostly run and kill the clock.
(3) Saints at (2) Packers: Saints 27, Packers 20
The Saints upset the Packers in a cold game. Normally indoor teams don’t do well in these environments, but the Saints are out to prove they are better than the Packers and deserved the higher seeding.
Conference Championships
AFC:
(2) Chiefs at (1) Ravens: Chiefs 28, Ravens 26
The Ravens get a few field goals from Tucker, but the Chiefs have CC game experience which proves to be the difference. Lamar Jackson has yet to beat the Chiefs and it remains that way, proving the Chiefs are his kryptonite.
(3) Saints at (1) 49ers: 49ers 28, Saints 24
As much as I’d like to say the Saints upset the 49ers in this one, I just don’t see it happening. The 49ers beat them once before, they can do it again. Also, the division most represented in the Super Bowl for the NFC in recent memory is the NFC West.
Super Bowl LIV: Chiefs 35, 49ers 31
In a wildly exciting game, the Chiefs emerge victorious. Mahomes gets the ball last, down 31-28, and instead of going for a field goal and overtime, connects with Mecole Hardman for a game-winning score. Mahomes wins Super Bowl MVP.
Wow, not terribly far off! The Chiefs won, as I predicted, but the score wasn't quite as high for either team. I was right on predicting Mahomes for MVP, but he was a clear favorite to begin with.
My Top 10 Super Bowl Matchups:
#1 – What I predict: Chiefs vs. 49ers
Again, this is my Super Bowl prediction, the battle between Joe Montana’s two teams.
And this just so happened to be the matchup that happened! Yet again, we have a Super Bowl with two teams who had first-round byes. We'll see if my predicted score above holds true for the game.
#2 – The obvious choice of #1 seeds: Ravens vs. 49ers
The most likely Super Bowl matchup every year is the two #1 seeds meeting, and in this case would be the Ravens and 49ers. It would also be a rematch of Super Bowl XLVII, in which the Ravens won.
#3 – The two hottest teams: Ravens vs. Packers
These are the two teams with the longest winning streaks in the NFL.
#4 – My mid-season Super Bowl picks: Ravens vs. Saints
This was my mid-season pick for the Super Bowl, Charm City vs. the Big Easy. New school vs. Old School.
#5 – The Super Bowl matchup I’ve wanted for YEARS: Patriots vs. Packers
Can we finally get a Brady vs. Rodgers matchup in the Super Bowl? Probably not, but it doesn’t hurt to hope. This, and the one below this, would tie for the matchup between the oldest franchises in the playoffs.
#6 – A fitting rematch: Chiefs vs. Packers
A rematch of Super Bowl I in the NFL’s 100th season? That would be very fitting. It’s also a matchup of the two State Farm QB’s, which we were deprived of earlier in the season because Mahomes was hurt.
#7 – To pad the Hall of Fame Resume: Patriots vs. Saints
The next best thing to Rodgers vs. Brady to me would be Brees vs. Brady. To some, this would be a better matchup. This matchup would be legendary, with the winner padding his resume for Canton even more, not that either of them need it.
#8 – Battle of the Birds: Ravens vs. Seahawks
The NFL is due for a wild card team getting to the Super Bowl. They’re due for a team winning three road games on their way to the Super Bowl. The Seahawks, I believe, have the best shot at doing that of any 5 or 6 seed. And to see Jackson vs. Wilson would be pretty awesome.
#9 – Rematch of an epic game: Patriots vs. Seahawks
If the Seahawks were to make it back to the Super Bowl, wouldn’t it be fitting for it to be against the Patriots? Marshawn Lynch is on the roster again, and perhaps we could give him that opportunity he so deserves.
#10 – Two of the biggest dynasties in NFL history: Patriots vs. 49ers
Arguably, the two biggest dynasties in NFL history would be the 49ers from the 80s to the mid-90s and the Patriots from the 2000s to the 2010’s. Would be fitting for the NFL’s 100th season. Also this would pit Jimmy Garoppolo against his former mentor, Tom Brady.
Wild Card Round
AFC:
(6) Titans at (3) Patriots: Titans 24, Patriots 20
Yup. The Patriots get upset at home in the playoffs. Tennessee is the more complete team and more physically imposing, and Derrick Henry has a great day.
(5) Bills at (4) Texans: Bills 19, Texans 17
The Bills defense is really good. The Texans defense isn’t that good. I see yet another upset here, with Josh Allen winning his first ever playoff game.
NFC:
(6) Vikings at (3) Saints: Saints 30, Vikings 23
No Minneapolis Miracle here, especially since the game is in New Orleans this time. The Vikings claw back from a deficit but are unable to get another opportunity to score.
(5) Seahawks at (4) Eagles: Eagles 27, Seahawks 19
One and done for the Hawks. The Seahawks are not the same team that played Philadelphia over a month ago, and the Eagles are playing better football since then. Result: Eagles win.
Divisional Round
AFC:
(6) Titans at (1) Ravens: Ravens 34, Titans 21
The Titans have trouble keeping up with a rested and efficient Ravens team.
(5) Bills at (2) Chiefs: Chiefs 26, Bills 17
Arrowhead in January proves too much for these Bills. The Chiefs won’t light up the scoreboard, but neither will the Bills.
NFC:
(4) Eagles at (1) 49ers: 49ers 28, Eagles 13
The 49ers defense dominates, getting turnovers and sacks galore. The 49ers have control of the game all game long and mostly run and kill the clock.
(3) Saints at (2) Packers: Saints 27, Packers 20
The Saints upset the Packers in a cold game. Normally indoor teams don’t do well in these environments, but the Saints are out to prove they are better than the Packers and deserved the higher seeding.
Conference Championships
AFC:
(2) Chiefs at (1) Ravens: Chiefs 28, Ravens 26
The Ravens get a few field goals from Tucker, but the Chiefs have CC game experience which proves to be the difference. Lamar Jackson has yet to beat the Chiefs and it remains that way, proving the Chiefs are his kryptonite.
(3) Saints at (1) 49ers: 49ers 28, Saints 24
As much as I’d like to say the Saints upset the 49ers in this one, I just don’t see it happening. The 49ers beat them once before, they can do it again. Also, the division most represented in the Super Bowl for the NFC in recent memory is the NFC West.
Super Bowl LIV: Chiefs 35, 49ers 31
In a wildly exciting game, the Chiefs emerge victorious. Mahomes gets the ball last, down 31-28, and instead of going for a field goal and overtime, connects with Mecole Hardman for a game-winning score. Mahomes wins Super Bowl MVP.
Wow, not terribly far off! The Chiefs won, as I predicted, but the score wasn't quite as high for either team. I was right on predicting Mahomes for MVP, but he was a clear favorite to begin with.
My Top 10 Super Bowl Matchups:
#1 – What I predict: Chiefs vs. 49ers
Again, this is my Super Bowl prediction, the battle between Joe Montana’s two teams.
And this just so happened to be the matchup that happened! Yet again, we have a Super Bowl with two teams who had first-round byes. We'll see if my predicted score above holds true for the game.
#2 – The obvious choice of #1 seeds: Ravens vs. 49ers
The most likely Super Bowl matchup every year is the two #1 seeds meeting, and in this case would be the Ravens and 49ers. It would also be a rematch of Super Bowl XLVII, in which the Ravens won.
#3 – The two hottest teams: Ravens vs. Packers
These are the two teams with the longest winning streaks in the NFL.
#4 – My mid-season Super Bowl picks: Ravens vs. Saints
This was my mid-season pick for the Super Bowl, Charm City vs. the Big Easy. New school vs. Old School.
#5 – The Super Bowl matchup I’ve wanted for YEARS: Patriots vs. Packers
Can we finally get a Brady vs. Rodgers matchup in the Super Bowl? Probably not, but it doesn’t hurt to hope. This, and the one below this, would tie for the matchup between the oldest franchises in the playoffs.
#6 – A fitting rematch: Chiefs vs. Packers
A rematch of Super Bowl I in the NFL’s 100th season? That would be very fitting. It’s also a matchup of the two State Farm QB’s, which we were deprived of earlier in the season because Mahomes was hurt.
#7 – To pad the Hall of Fame Resume: Patriots vs. Saints
The next best thing to Rodgers vs. Brady to me would be Brees vs. Brady. To some, this would be a better matchup. This matchup would be legendary, with the winner padding his resume for Canton even more, not that either of them need it.
#8 – Battle of the Birds: Ravens vs. Seahawks
The NFL is due for a wild card team getting to the Super Bowl. They’re due for a team winning three road games on their way to the Super Bowl. The Seahawks, I believe, have the best shot at doing that of any 5 or 6 seed. And to see Jackson vs. Wilson would be pretty awesome.
#9 – Rematch of an epic game: Patriots vs. Seahawks
If the Seahawks were to make it back to the Super Bowl, wouldn’t it be fitting for it to be against the Patriots? Marshawn Lynch is on the roster again, and perhaps we could give him that opportunity he so deserves.
#10 – Two of the biggest dynasties in NFL history: Patriots vs. 49ers
Arguably, the two biggest dynasties in NFL history would be the 49ers from the 80s to the mid-90s and the Patriots from the 2000s to the 2010’s. Would be fitting for the NFL’s 100th season. Also this would pit Jimmy Garoppolo against his former mentor, Tom Brady.
NFL Quarterbacks Who Will Get New Homes in 2020
I love talking about NFL Quarterbacks, and I also like making predictions. I like to see how right or wrong I am. I decided I am going to go through all of the
quarterbacks in the NFL that could change teams in 2020, and also go over the
QB prospects will get drafted in 2020 as well. I know I’ll be wrong on many accounts, but I
bet I’ll get one of these right.
Retired: Eli Manning, Josh McCown, Matt Schaub, Cam Newton
Manning, McCown, and Schaub are no surprises. But Newton?! After the Panthers either cut him or tell him he won’t be starting in 2020, Cam decides to retire. He explains that all the hits and injuries have taken a toll.
Teddy Bridgewater – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Bruce Arians and the Buccaneers decide they’ve had enough with Jameis’ turnover tendencies and they sign Teddy Bridgewater, a much more careful passer. It would be interesting to see Bridgewater work with Arians and Leftwich.
Andy Dalton – Dallas Cowboys
Dalton, a native Texan, decides he’s ok with settling for a backup role since it’s with the Dallas Cowboys. They may even sign him before re-signing Dak Prescott.
Case Keenum – Cincinnati Bengals
Keenum goes to the Bengals to help mentor their young rookie QB.
Marcus Mariota – Chicago Bears
Mitch Trusbisky will remain the starter, but the Bears will sign Mariota to compete and push him. Mariota fits well into Matt Nagy’s offensive scheme and could take over if Trubisky struggles.
Philip Rivers – Carolina Panthers
The Panthers are probably making a change, and Rivers could go there to compete for (and probably win) the starting job. He’d be playing in the same state he went to college.
Ryan Tannehill – Tennessee Titans
The Titans will re-sign Tannehill, but may also draft a QB after letting Mariota go.
Josh Rosen – Los Angeles Chargers
Yep, his third team in his third year. Rosen gets traded to the Bolts, where he competes with a rookie for the starting job. He gets to play in his home state, too.
Jameis Winston – Washington Redskins
Winston has more upside than Cam Newton, as he is a better pocket passer. I see the new coach in Washington wanting to work with Jameis and see if he can get his interceptions down. Jameis could be there with Haskins and “mentor” him, although he’s not much older than him. Jameis would also be overpaid, as is the Redskins way.
Now, draft picks:
Joe Burrow – Cincinnati Bengals
He’s the strong favorite to be the #1 pick, and the Bengals have that pick. It’s a no-brainer.
Justin Herbert – Los Angeles Chargers
After letting Rivers go, the Chargers trade for Rosen and draft Herbert, hoping one of them works out.
Tua Tagovailoa – Miami Dolphins
Tua gets drafted by the Fins and sits behind Fitzpatrick for a year.
Jake Fromm – New Orleans Saints
After losing Bridgewater and Brees being close to retirement, the Saints draft Jake Fromm out of Georgia.
Jacob Eason – Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers draft Eason to be Ben Roethlisberger’s heir apparent.
Jamie Newman – Carolina Panthers
I don’t know much about Jamie Newman, but he would be learning from Philip Rivers in this scenario, and he’d be playing in the same state he went to college.
Khalil Tate – Tennessee Titans
After the Titans let Mariota go, they need to acquire a backup to Tannehill, and I think they’ll opt for someone with athleticism, and Tate fits that build.
That's all for now, I'll check in sometime after the draft to see how well I did!
Retired: Eli Manning, Josh McCown, Matt Schaub, Cam Newton
Manning, McCown, and Schaub are no surprises. But Newton?! After the Panthers either cut him or tell him he won’t be starting in 2020, Cam decides to retire. He explains that all the hits and injuries have taken a toll.
Teddy Bridgewater – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Bruce Arians and the Buccaneers decide they’ve had enough with Jameis’ turnover tendencies and they sign Teddy Bridgewater, a much more careful passer. It would be interesting to see Bridgewater work with Arians and Leftwich.
Andy Dalton – Dallas Cowboys
Dalton, a native Texan, decides he’s ok with settling for a backup role since it’s with the Dallas Cowboys. They may even sign him before re-signing Dak Prescott.
Case Keenum – Cincinnati Bengals
Keenum goes to the Bengals to help mentor their young rookie QB.
Marcus Mariota – Chicago Bears
Mitch Trusbisky will remain the starter, but the Bears will sign Mariota to compete and push him. Mariota fits well into Matt Nagy’s offensive scheme and could take over if Trubisky struggles.
Philip Rivers – Carolina Panthers
The Panthers are probably making a change, and Rivers could go there to compete for (and probably win) the starting job. He’d be playing in the same state he went to college.
Ryan Tannehill – Tennessee Titans
The Titans will re-sign Tannehill, but may also draft a QB after letting Mariota go.
Josh Rosen – Los Angeles Chargers
Yep, his third team in his third year. Rosen gets traded to the Bolts, where he competes with a rookie for the starting job. He gets to play in his home state, too.
Jameis Winston – Washington Redskins
Winston has more upside than Cam Newton, as he is a better pocket passer. I see the new coach in Washington wanting to work with Jameis and see if he can get his interceptions down. Jameis could be there with Haskins and “mentor” him, although he’s not much older than him. Jameis would also be overpaid, as is the Redskins way.
Now, draft picks:
Joe Burrow – Cincinnati Bengals
He’s the strong favorite to be the #1 pick, and the Bengals have that pick. It’s a no-brainer.
Justin Herbert – Los Angeles Chargers
After letting Rivers go, the Chargers trade for Rosen and draft Herbert, hoping one of them works out.
Tua Tagovailoa – Miami Dolphins
Tua gets drafted by the Fins and sits behind Fitzpatrick for a year.
Jake Fromm – New Orleans Saints
After losing Bridgewater and Brees being close to retirement, the Saints draft Jake Fromm out of Georgia.
Jacob Eason – Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers draft Eason to be Ben Roethlisberger’s heir apparent.
Jamie Newman – Carolina Panthers
I don’t know much about Jamie Newman, but he would be learning from Philip Rivers in this scenario, and he’d be playing in the same state he went to college.
Khalil Tate – Tennessee Titans
After the Titans let Mariota go, they need to acquire a backup to Tannehill, and I think they’ll opt for someone with athleticism, and Tate fits that build.
That's all for now, I'll check in sometime after the draft to see how well I did!
Thursday, December 26, 2019
Rating the Seahawks Drafts, 2013-2018
The Seahawks have drafted fairly well in the Pete Carroll/John Schneider era, but
that’s mostly counting the early part of this decade. But how have they been since then? I’m going to look at the six drafts from
2013-2018 and see how they have done. It’s
too soon on 2019, but I can go over the previous six drafts. I’ll give each a letter grade, and a forewarning,
I am not going to be easy on them.
2013: Something you’ll be hearing quite often: The Seahawks traded their first-round pick. This time, it was for Percy Harvin. I don’t think he was worth a first-round pick, especially since with that pick the Vikings selected future Pro Bowl cornerback Xavier Rhodes. Yikes. The Seahawks first selection, Christine Michael, was expected to succeed Marshawn Lynch but never could. Guys like Jordan Hill, Chris Harper, Jesse Williams, and Tharold Simon are no longer in the league. Luke Willson and Spencer Ware were drafted, but Ware has had most of his success with the Chiefs. This was not a particularly good draft to follow 2012.
Grade: D+
2014: Again, the first-round pick was traded, this time for more picks. The notable names taken in this class were Paul Richardson, Justin Britt, Cassius Marsh, and Kevin Pierre-Louis. A very meh draft if there ever was one. Britt is the only one still on the team. He has developed into a borderline Pro Bowl center, so there is that. But the rest have not really lived up to expectations, although KPL is doing well… in Chicago.
Grade: C-
2015: Yet again the first-round pick was traded, this time it was included in the Unger/Graham deal. I’d say that trade was not a particularly good one. The Saints took Stephone Anthony with the pick, and he’s bounced around the league a bit and he’s back with the Saints. Meanwhile, the Hawks took Frank Clark and Tyler Lockett with their first two picks, and also Mark Glowinski in the 4th round. Everyone else is out of the league or on another team. Glowinski has had more success in Indianapolis than he did here. Good first two picks, but the trade hurt the Hawks and no one else contributed.
Grade: C+
2016: Hey the Hawks used a first-round pick! On… Germain Ifedi. He sure took a long time to develop, but he’s finally starting to limit the penalties and missed blocks. He’s about average for a right tackle right now, I’d say. But the Hawks also took Jarran Reed, CJ Prosise, Quinton Jefferson, and Joey Hunt, all who are still with the team. Alex Collins did well… with Baltimore. Rees Odhiambo struggled. Not a bad draft, but the only real legit player taken was Reed.
Grade: C
2017: Ah yes, the Malik McDowell draft. He wasn’t a first round-pick, but he was the Hawks’ first pick. The Hawks traded their first-round pick for more picks. The first pick still on the team is Ethan Pocic, who has been a backup offensive lineman only. Shaquill Griffin and Tedric Thompson were taken, two guys who have been fairly decent starters in the secondary. David Moore was also taken in the seventh round, and he’s been a fairly decent contributor. And who could forget Chris Carson, who has now put together two separate 1,000-yard seasons? The Carson pick was a steal, but no one else can really be considered a great pick. The Carson pick basically cancels out the McDowell pick.
Grade: C
2018: A very mixed bag in this draft. The first pick, Penny, has been a decent backup to Carson, but was a stretch as the first-round pick. Rasheem Green, Shaquem Griffin, and Tre Flowers have been decent but unspectacular contributors on defense. Will Dissly has been a nice find, if he could only stay healthy. And Michael Dickson was actually a great pick as a fifth rounder as he could be the Hawks’ punter for many years. Yet again a draft where there doesn’t seem to be any Pro Bowl caliber players.
Grade: C-
GPA: 1.83 (C-)
As you can tell, the Hawks haven’t drafted horribly because I didn’t give them an F grade, but they certainly haven’t drafted particularly well, either, because I didn’t even give out any B or A grades. Pete and John draft a lot of just okay players. They don’t seem to be able to find diamonds in the rough anymore. When Pete first came to the Hawks in 2010, he was able to draft a lot of the guys he recruited and scouted while head coach at USC. He knew their strengths and weaknesses better than perhaps anyone, and he knew who would fit into his system with the Hawks. Now having been out of the college ranks for almost a decade, Pete is no longer quite as in touch with the college players and it’s a bit more of a guessing game for him. And he and John aren’t guessing particularly well.
Here’s something that ought to stand out. From 2010 to 2012, Pete and John drafted eight players who have made a Pro Bowl. From 2013 to 2018, in twice as many years, Pete and John drafted just two players who have made a Pro Bowl (Lockett and Dickson). And each of those guys only made it once. If you count Pro Bowl appearances, the numbers are TWENTY-EIGHT Pro Bowl appearances to just two. Clearly, the drafts since then did not go quite as well. They are relying on Wilson and Wagner to carry the team, but they are failing to support them with other Pro Bowl caliber players. And that is why the Hawks will not get to another Super Bowl under Carroll and Schneider, unless they start drafting better.
2013: Something you’ll be hearing quite often: The Seahawks traded their first-round pick. This time, it was for Percy Harvin. I don’t think he was worth a first-round pick, especially since with that pick the Vikings selected future Pro Bowl cornerback Xavier Rhodes. Yikes. The Seahawks first selection, Christine Michael, was expected to succeed Marshawn Lynch but never could. Guys like Jordan Hill, Chris Harper, Jesse Williams, and Tharold Simon are no longer in the league. Luke Willson and Spencer Ware were drafted, but Ware has had most of his success with the Chiefs. This was not a particularly good draft to follow 2012.
Grade: D+
2014: Again, the first-round pick was traded, this time for more picks. The notable names taken in this class were Paul Richardson, Justin Britt, Cassius Marsh, and Kevin Pierre-Louis. A very meh draft if there ever was one. Britt is the only one still on the team. He has developed into a borderline Pro Bowl center, so there is that. But the rest have not really lived up to expectations, although KPL is doing well… in Chicago.
Grade: C-
2015: Yet again the first-round pick was traded, this time it was included in the Unger/Graham deal. I’d say that trade was not a particularly good one. The Saints took Stephone Anthony with the pick, and he’s bounced around the league a bit and he’s back with the Saints. Meanwhile, the Hawks took Frank Clark and Tyler Lockett with their first two picks, and also Mark Glowinski in the 4th round. Everyone else is out of the league or on another team. Glowinski has had more success in Indianapolis than he did here. Good first two picks, but the trade hurt the Hawks and no one else contributed.
Grade: C+
2016: Hey the Hawks used a first-round pick! On… Germain Ifedi. He sure took a long time to develop, but he’s finally starting to limit the penalties and missed blocks. He’s about average for a right tackle right now, I’d say. But the Hawks also took Jarran Reed, CJ Prosise, Quinton Jefferson, and Joey Hunt, all who are still with the team. Alex Collins did well… with Baltimore. Rees Odhiambo struggled. Not a bad draft, but the only real legit player taken was Reed.
Grade: C
2017: Ah yes, the Malik McDowell draft. He wasn’t a first round-pick, but he was the Hawks’ first pick. The Hawks traded their first-round pick for more picks. The first pick still on the team is Ethan Pocic, who has been a backup offensive lineman only. Shaquill Griffin and Tedric Thompson were taken, two guys who have been fairly decent starters in the secondary. David Moore was also taken in the seventh round, and he’s been a fairly decent contributor. And who could forget Chris Carson, who has now put together two separate 1,000-yard seasons? The Carson pick was a steal, but no one else can really be considered a great pick. The Carson pick basically cancels out the McDowell pick.
Grade: C
2018: A very mixed bag in this draft. The first pick, Penny, has been a decent backup to Carson, but was a stretch as the first-round pick. Rasheem Green, Shaquem Griffin, and Tre Flowers have been decent but unspectacular contributors on defense. Will Dissly has been a nice find, if he could only stay healthy. And Michael Dickson was actually a great pick as a fifth rounder as he could be the Hawks’ punter for many years. Yet again a draft where there doesn’t seem to be any Pro Bowl caliber players.
Grade: C-
GPA: 1.83 (C-)
As you can tell, the Hawks haven’t drafted horribly because I didn’t give them an F grade, but they certainly haven’t drafted particularly well, either, because I didn’t even give out any B or A grades. Pete and John draft a lot of just okay players. They don’t seem to be able to find diamonds in the rough anymore. When Pete first came to the Hawks in 2010, he was able to draft a lot of the guys he recruited and scouted while head coach at USC. He knew their strengths and weaknesses better than perhaps anyone, and he knew who would fit into his system with the Hawks. Now having been out of the college ranks for almost a decade, Pete is no longer quite as in touch with the college players and it’s a bit more of a guessing game for him. And he and John aren’t guessing particularly well.
Here’s something that ought to stand out. From 2010 to 2012, Pete and John drafted eight players who have made a Pro Bowl. From 2013 to 2018, in twice as many years, Pete and John drafted just two players who have made a Pro Bowl (Lockett and Dickson). And each of those guys only made it once. If you count Pro Bowl appearances, the numbers are TWENTY-EIGHT Pro Bowl appearances to just two. Clearly, the drafts since then did not go quite as well. They are relying on Wilson and Wagner to carry the team, but they are failing to support them with other Pro Bowl caliber players. And that is why the Hawks will not get to another Super Bowl under Carroll and Schneider, unless they start drafting better.
Top 10 Guilty Pleasure Movies
I thought I'd go for a fun kind of post and I was thinking about what my favorite guilty pleasure movies are the other day. I have come up with my Top 10 Guilty Pleasure Movies. None of these are critically acclaimed, but every single one of them is entertaining and I have seen multiple times. It's just something about these films; I just enjoy sitting back and turning my brain off and watching these every few years. And, in order for a film to be on here, it has to have less than a 7.0 rating on IMDB, and the ratings on IMDB follow the titles of the films. Here they are:
Honorable Mention: Smart House - 6.3
I had to give honorable mention to my favorite Disney Channel original movie growing up, Smart House. It's only a TV Movie, so I couldn't quite count it. But as a kid I wanted a smart house just like the one in the movie, one that would make me meals, instantly clean up messes, and play whatever I want to watch on the entire wall. And I would know better than to disobey it and piss it off, unlike the family in this movie.
Second Honorable Mention: Rat Race - 6.4
I remember my parents taking me to see this in theaters, and yes, I was only 12 at the time, so a bit raunchy for 12-year-old me. But I thought it was one of the funniest movies I had ever seen, and it still to this day makes me laugh. I got it on DVD in the early 2000s and watched it every few years as I got older, each time understanding a new joke or two. And the cast is just terrific, from Jon Lovitz to Cuba Gooding Jr. to Rowan Atkinson to Seth Green to Whoopi Goldberg.
10. Jack Frost - 5.4
Another film with a hard-to-believe premise: A father dies, but his spirit/soul brings a snowman to life and he is able to interact and talk to his son a year after passing. I liked this movie growing up, and it always made a great movie to watch around the winter holidays. I particularly like the song "Hey Now Now" by Swirl 360 that plays when Charlie and his "dad" get away from the bullies. It's so 1990's.
9. Like Mike - 5.2
A kid finds some of Michael Jordan's old sneakers and suddenly gains his basketball ability by wearing the shoes. It's an interesting story, but I like that it has a basketball theme. There's a sub-plot of the kid being at an orphanage and trying to get adopted, and eventually does. Jesse Plemons is in this in the first role I saw him in, as a fellow kid/bully in the orphanage. I also like the cameos by all the NBA players in this, although no Michael Jordan.
8. Jingle All the Way - 5.6
My favorite guilty pleasure Christmas Movie, Jingle All the Way is fun to watch even outside the Christmas season. There are so many hard to believe things in this film, but there are so many classic scenes and lines such as "Put the cookie down, now!" and "I'm not a puh-vert!". It's just a fun film and Arnie just kills it. And this is not the only time a film Jake Lloyd acted in is on this list.
7. Bruce Almighty - 6.7
This is one of my favorite Jim Carrey roles. Carrey, playing the titular role, gets the powers of God and uses them with hilarious results. The casting of Morgan Freeman as God was absolutely perfect. And Jim perfectly inserts some of his funny and quirky mannerisms into the role. I'm surprised this doesn't have a bit higher rating, but there are times when the movie just tries too hard to be funny. I like Jennifer Aniston in this, but she seems a bit out of Bruce's league.
6. The Island - 6.8
Ewan McGregor in a sci-fi movie? I'll always go for that. 😉 In this, he plays a clone that escapes his institution along side a very fine looking Scarlett Johansson who also plays a clone. This movie has been out for a while now, so much so that when this film was shot and set "in the future", well that future is now the past. I happened to watch The Island the day this was set, July 19, 2019. This film was also made by Michael Bay, maybe the king of guilty pleasure directors, but he's only on this list once for me. My favorite line(s): "I'm Tom Lincoln!" "No, I'm Tom Lincoln!"
5. Godzilla (1998) - 5.4
Yes, the 1998 Godzilla starring Matthew Broderick is one of my favorite guilty pleasure films. I remember how hyped the movie was when it came out, and I even owned a Godzilla toy from that film that screamed like the movie version and stomped and "wagged" it's tail. I remember seeing it as a kid and it scaring me a bit, but not anymore obviously. As a sports fan, I loved how the climax was set at Madison Square Garden where the Knicks play. They set up for a possible sequel with one of Godzilla's babies surviving in the end, but nothing came of it. Oh well, the sequel probably would have been even worse.
4. Click - 6.4
This is my favorite Adam Sandler movie, believe it or not. And I just found out, for the longest time this film had Adam Sandler's only death scene (until "Uncut Gems", I believe). It's got such an interesting (but flawed) concept, but I love it. He controls the universe with a remote, with unfortunate side effects. I like how the film teaches us to enjoy moments in life we take for granted, such as time with our parents, working, and foreplay with the wife 🤣. I also love all the actors in this and their connections to other things or people. Adam Sandler's mom was played by Julie Kavner, who voices Marge Simpson. We also see his kids played by Lorraine Nicholson and Jake Hoffman, the children of Jack Nicholson and Dustin Hoffman, respectively. And we see a small role from Jonah Hill.
3. National Treasure: Book of Secrets - 6.5
You knew Nicolas Cage had to be on here at some point, right? He's the king of guilty pleasure actors. In this sequel, he "kidnaps the president" and goes to a secret cave inside Mount Rushmore. I just love the two National Treasure films, and I wish they had made another. By this point, a third National Treasure film would feel forced, irrelevant, and not as interesting. However, a third one is listed on IMDB as "In Development", although I believe it has been that way for a few years. I believe they are having trouble either writing the script or finding writers for it.
2. Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace - 6.5
What, I can have a Star Wars film on here! And there's no better example of a guilty pleasure Star Wars film than Episode I: The Phantom Menace. I do enjoy watching this and I never skip over it when I watch the Star Wars films (or prequel trilogy). I remember all the promotions for the film when it came out and each time I watch Episode I, it gives me that feeling of nostalgia. Sometimes I even get the urge to watch just this film and not Episodes II or III. Jar Jar doesn't annoy me quite as much as he annoys other Star Wars fans.
1. National Treasure - 6.8
Well, you knew if National Treasure 2 was on here, the first one would have to be on here as well. I have lost count of the amount of times I have seen this. I love the history they incorporated into this movie, even if it's not all true. And, this was for the longest time the only thing I had seen Sean Bean in where he doesn't die. And, I could be mistaken, but it might be the only film where he plays the villain but doesn't die.
Like I said, I just enjoy turning my brain off and watching any of these films. I think the thing they have in common is that each one has something happen in it that is just never possible in the real world: A person coming back to life, a dog playing football, a universal remote that controls the universe, and stealing the Declaration of Independence. Oh, and Star Wars.
Honorable Mention: Smart House - 6.3
I had to give honorable mention to my favorite Disney Channel original movie growing up, Smart House. It's only a TV Movie, so I couldn't quite count it. But as a kid I wanted a smart house just like the one in the movie, one that would make me meals, instantly clean up messes, and play whatever I want to watch on the entire wall. And I would know better than to disobey it and piss it off, unlike the family in this movie.
Second Honorable Mention: Rat Race - 6.4
I remember my parents taking me to see this in theaters, and yes, I was only 12 at the time, so a bit raunchy for 12-year-old me. But I thought it was one of the funniest movies I had ever seen, and it still to this day makes me laugh. I got it on DVD in the early 2000s and watched it every few years as I got older, each time understanding a new joke or two. And the cast is just terrific, from Jon Lovitz to Cuba Gooding Jr. to Rowan Atkinson to Seth Green to Whoopi Goldberg.
10. Jack Frost - 5.4
Another film with a hard-to-believe premise: A father dies, but his spirit/soul brings a snowman to life and he is able to interact and talk to his son a year after passing. I liked this movie growing up, and it always made a great movie to watch around the winter holidays. I particularly like the song "Hey Now Now" by Swirl 360 that plays when Charlie and his "dad" get away from the bullies. It's so 1990's.
9. Like Mike - 5.2
A kid finds some of Michael Jordan's old sneakers and suddenly gains his basketball ability by wearing the shoes. It's an interesting story, but I like that it has a basketball theme. There's a sub-plot of the kid being at an orphanage and trying to get adopted, and eventually does. Jesse Plemons is in this in the first role I saw him in, as a fellow kid/bully in the orphanage. I also like the cameos by all the NBA players in this, although no Michael Jordan.
8. Jingle All the Way - 5.6
My favorite guilty pleasure Christmas Movie, Jingle All the Way is fun to watch even outside the Christmas season. There are so many hard to believe things in this film, but there are so many classic scenes and lines such as "Put the cookie down, now!" and "I'm not a puh-vert!". It's just a fun film and Arnie just kills it. And this is not the only time a film Jake Lloyd acted in is on this list.
7. Bruce Almighty - 6.7
This is one of my favorite Jim Carrey roles. Carrey, playing the titular role, gets the powers of God and uses them with hilarious results. The casting of Morgan Freeman as God was absolutely perfect. And Jim perfectly inserts some of his funny and quirky mannerisms into the role. I'm surprised this doesn't have a bit higher rating, but there are times when the movie just tries too hard to be funny. I like Jennifer Aniston in this, but she seems a bit out of Bruce's league.
6. The Island - 6.8
Ewan McGregor in a sci-fi movie? I'll always go for that. 😉 In this, he plays a clone that escapes his institution along side a very fine looking Scarlett Johansson who also plays a clone. This movie has been out for a while now, so much so that when this film was shot and set "in the future", well that future is now the past. I happened to watch The Island the day this was set, July 19, 2019. This film was also made by Michael Bay, maybe the king of guilty pleasure directors, but he's only on this list once for me. My favorite line(s): "I'm Tom Lincoln!" "No, I'm Tom Lincoln!"
5. Godzilla (1998) - 5.4
Yes, the 1998 Godzilla starring Matthew Broderick is one of my favorite guilty pleasure films. I remember how hyped the movie was when it came out, and I even owned a Godzilla toy from that film that screamed like the movie version and stomped and "wagged" it's tail. I remember seeing it as a kid and it scaring me a bit, but not anymore obviously. As a sports fan, I loved how the climax was set at Madison Square Garden where the Knicks play. They set up for a possible sequel with one of Godzilla's babies surviving in the end, but nothing came of it. Oh well, the sequel probably would have been even worse.
4. Click - 6.4
This is my favorite Adam Sandler movie, believe it or not. And I just found out, for the longest time this film had Adam Sandler's only death scene (until "Uncut Gems", I believe). It's got such an interesting (but flawed) concept, but I love it. He controls the universe with a remote, with unfortunate side effects. I like how the film teaches us to enjoy moments in life we take for granted, such as time with our parents, working, and foreplay with the wife 🤣. I also love all the actors in this and their connections to other things or people. Adam Sandler's mom was played by Julie Kavner, who voices Marge Simpson. We also see his kids played by Lorraine Nicholson and Jake Hoffman, the children of Jack Nicholson and Dustin Hoffman, respectively. And we see a small role from Jonah Hill.
3. National Treasure: Book of Secrets - 6.5
You knew Nicolas Cage had to be on here at some point, right? He's the king of guilty pleasure actors. In this sequel, he "kidnaps the president" and goes to a secret cave inside Mount Rushmore. I just love the two National Treasure films, and I wish they had made another. By this point, a third National Treasure film would feel forced, irrelevant, and not as interesting. However, a third one is listed on IMDB as "In Development", although I believe it has been that way for a few years. I believe they are having trouble either writing the script or finding writers for it.
2. Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace - 6.5
What, I can have a Star Wars film on here! And there's no better example of a guilty pleasure Star Wars film than Episode I: The Phantom Menace. I do enjoy watching this and I never skip over it when I watch the Star Wars films (or prequel trilogy). I remember all the promotions for the film when it came out and each time I watch Episode I, it gives me that feeling of nostalgia. Sometimes I even get the urge to watch just this film and not Episodes II or III. Jar Jar doesn't annoy me quite as much as he annoys other Star Wars fans.
1. National Treasure - 6.8
Well, you knew if National Treasure 2 was on here, the first one would have to be on here as well. I have lost count of the amount of times I have seen this. I love the history they incorporated into this movie, even if it's not all true. And, this was for the longest time the only thing I had seen Sean Bean in where he doesn't die. And, I could be mistaken, but it might be the only film where he plays the villain but doesn't die.
Like I said, I just enjoy turning my brain off and watching any of these films. I think the thing they have in common is that each one has something happen in it that is just never possible in the real world: A person coming back to life, a dog playing football, a universal remote that controls the universe, and stealing the Declaration of Independence. Oh, and Star Wars.
Monday, December 23, 2019
Pete Carroll's Time May Be Up
After watching the Seahawks lose embarrassingly at home to the last-place Cardinals 27-13, I have just about had enough. Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll can no longer adapt to today's game, and I think it's time for him to retire. He's had a great coaching career, winning a Super Bowl and getting to another. He's the greatest coach in Seahawk's history. But he just doesn't have what it takes to be a decent head coach in this league anymore. His in-game decisions are poor, he restricts his offense and superstar quarterback, and at times seems lost during games.
Pete Carroll has never been known for being a great coach with in-game decisions. He challenges what clearly won't be overturned, he calls questionable timeouts at best, and worst of all, he is ultra-conservative and coaches as if he has a journeyman quarterback. Hawks fans have lost track of the number of times he has chosen to kick a field goal or punt rather than go for a fourth down attempt. He's earned the nickname "No Balls Pete" from many Hawks fans. In just this past Cardinals game I referenced, he sent out his field goal unit on a 4th and one from about the 32 yard line. But after the field goal unit got "messed up up front" (his quote), they had to take a delay of game and then punt the ball away. That's a coaching issue, and that's on him. But the point I'm trying to make is that Carroll time and time again won't let his star quarterback make a play on a 4th down attempt. Even when the Hawks go for it on 4th down (which is rare), he'll usually have Wilson hand the ball off, which the defense often sees coming and stops it. Compare that to the Raven's John Harbaugh and Lamar Jackson, who in their game against the Hawks, John actually asked Lamar if he thinks they should go for a 4th down attempt. Lamar said yes, they attempted and converted with Lamar getting the first down himself. Pete instead will take the ball out of his quarterback's hands, whether that be in favor of a punt or field goal, or handing off to a running back.
Pete Carroll and Russell Wilson are both perfect and horrible for each other at the same time. They're perfect because they both stay optimistic no matter what and have a same outlook on the game. However, they're also horrible for each other because Carroll restricts Wilson and doesn't give Wilson the opportunities he deserves. Carroll hired an ultra-conservative offensive coordinator in Brian Schottenheimer, and "Schotty" has largely restricted Russell himself. Carroll has always been a run-first or run-heavy type coach, but his failure to adapt to his star quarterback is costing the Hawks. Carroll and General Manager John Schneider have also failed to surround Wilson with much talent, especially on the offensive line. Since the Super Bowl years, they have still yet to put together even an average offensive line. Instead, Wilson has had to make due with a run-heavy offense and a below average offensive line at best in the five years since then.
Fortunately for coach Carroll, even if the Hawks season ends from this point on in the worst way possible (which would be losing to the 49ers and a first-round exit at the hands of the Cowboys or Eagles), he will be saved because people will point to the massive amount of injuries as to the reason the Seahawk's season, once so full of promise, ended so poorly. But I ask you to look at the Pittsburgh Steelers and their coach, Mike Tomlin. He loses his superstar quarterback for the year, shortly after losing his two best offensive playmakers to other teams. Tomlin also deals with injuries to his team's starting running back, next best receiver, and several other key players. They are still contending for a playoff spot. Think the Hawks would be contending for a playoff spot if they lost Wilson Week 2 and Carson for a few games? Heck no. The injury bug hits the Seahawks and Carroll does not weather the storm as well as Tomlin did.
The Hawks will lose to the 49ers. There is no doubt in my mind. The Hawks will probably play better than they did against the Cardinals, but may still lose by more than one score. The Hawks will then get a #5 seed, and may even beat the Eagles or Cowboys. But they will not beat the 49ers or Saints or Packers in the divisional round. This team is stuck in a state of "pretty good" and have been since Super Bowl XLIX. They're better than the average team because of Russell Wilson, but they can't get any better because Pete is holding them back. We know he can't draft well anymore, and I think he cannot be a Super Bowl-caliber coach anymore. Carroll's best fit is with a team with a great defense and a team built around the run. He can't afford to have money tied up to his quarterback. He'd be a great coach on teams like Chicago or Buffalo. But here, it's just not a good fit anymore.
Edit: Well, the Hawks did lose to the 49ers, but they also almost won. I am still convinced Pete Carroll needs to go. He is unable to get his guys prepared and able to start out strong. We'll see how they do against the Eagles in the playoffs. Technically, the Hawks are still in a rebuild despite still making the playoffs, but without being able to draft capable starters, it's going to be VERY hard to break through and get to a conference championship (or better).
Pete Carroll has never been known for being a great coach with in-game decisions. He challenges what clearly won't be overturned, he calls questionable timeouts at best, and worst of all, he is ultra-conservative and coaches as if he has a journeyman quarterback. Hawks fans have lost track of the number of times he has chosen to kick a field goal or punt rather than go for a fourth down attempt. He's earned the nickname "No Balls Pete" from many Hawks fans. In just this past Cardinals game I referenced, he sent out his field goal unit on a 4th and one from about the 32 yard line. But after the field goal unit got "messed up up front" (his quote), they had to take a delay of game and then punt the ball away. That's a coaching issue, and that's on him. But the point I'm trying to make is that Carroll time and time again won't let his star quarterback make a play on a 4th down attempt. Even when the Hawks go for it on 4th down (which is rare), he'll usually have Wilson hand the ball off, which the defense often sees coming and stops it. Compare that to the Raven's John Harbaugh and Lamar Jackson, who in their game against the Hawks, John actually asked Lamar if he thinks they should go for a 4th down attempt. Lamar said yes, they attempted and converted with Lamar getting the first down himself. Pete instead will take the ball out of his quarterback's hands, whether that be in favor of a punt or field goal, or handing off to a running back.
Pete Carroll and Russell Wilson are both perfect and horrible for each other at the same time. They're perfect because they both stay optimistic no matter what and have a same outlook on the game. However, they're also horrible for each other because Carroll restricts Wilson and doesn't give Wilson the opportunities he deserves. Carroll hired an ultra-conservative offensive coordinator in Brian Schottenheimer, and "Schotty" has largely restricted Russell himself. Carroll has always been a run-first or run-heavy type coach, but his failure to adapt to his star quarterback is costing the Hawks. Carroll and General Manager John Schneider have also failed to surround Wilson with much talent, especially on the offensive line. Since the Super Bowl years, they have still yet to put together even an average offensive line. Instead, Wilson has had to make due with a run-heavy offense and a below average offensive line at best in the five years since then.
Fortunately for coach Carroll, even if the Hawks season ends from this point on in the worst way possible (which would be losing to the 49ers and a first-round exit at the hands of the Cowboys or Eagles), he will be saved because people will point to the massive amount of injuries as to the reason the Seahawk's season, once so full of promise, ended so poorly. But I ask you to look at the Pittsburgh Steelers and their coach, Mike Tomlin. He loses his superstar quarterback for the year, shortly after losing his two best offensive playmakers to other teams. Tomlin also deals with injuries to his team's starting running back, next best receiver, and several other key players. They are still contending for a playoff spot. Think the Hawks would be contending for a playoff spot if they lost Wilson Week 2 and Carson for a few games? Heck no. The injury bug hits the Seahawks and Carroll does not weather the storm as well as Tomlin did.
The Hawks will lose to the 49ers. There is no doubt in my mind. The Hawks will probably play better than they did against the Cardinals, but may still lose by more than one score. The Hawks will then get a #5 seed, and may even beat the Eagles or Cowboys. But they will not beat the 49ers or Saints or Packers in the divisional round. This team is stuck in a state of "pretty good" and have been since Super Bowl XLIX. They're better than the average team because of Russell Wilson, but they can't get any better because Pete is holding them back. We know he can't draft well anymore, and I think he cannot be a Super Bowl-caliber coach anymore. Carroll's best fit is with a team with a great defense and a team built around the run. He can't afford to have money tied up to his quarterback. He'd be a great coach on teams like Chicago or Buffalo. But here, it's just not a good fit anymore.
Edit: Well, the Hawks did lose to the 49ers, but they also almost won. I am still convinced Pete Carroll needs to go. He is unable to get his guys prepared and able to start out strong. We'll see how they do against the Eagles in the playoffs. Technically, the Hawks are still in a rebuild despite still making the playoffs, but without being able to draft capable starters, it's going to be VERY hard to break through and get to a conference championship (or better).
Friday, December 20, 2019
Star Wars: Rise of Skywalker Thoughts/Review
I have now seen the final film in the Skywalker saga of Star Wars films. Honestly, I'm pretty bummed it's over and there won't be another. We won't ever see Luke, Han, Leia, or Lando again; at least not played by their respective actors and not in a Star Wars episodic film. However, the final film tied up the saga, but the question is, did it do it well? In my opinion, it did. It answered a bunch of questions, had drama, and kept me entertained throughout. Also, from here on out there will be spoilers, so you have been warned.
I have to admit I read some reviews of The Rise of Skywalker before seeing it, and most of what I saw was pretty negative. One person even called it the "worst Star Wars film". No way is TROS the worst Star Wars film, but it is not without its faults. I want to get these out of the way first. This is not a perfect film, or even excellent. I think this film is going to divide fans for a long time. It currently has a 6.9 rating on IMDB and a 58% score on Rotten Tomatoes. I think it was better than what those scores indicate. But I certainly don't think it was close to perfect.
First off, I had trouble accepting such a light and goodhearted character we've grown to know and love could be descended from someone so despicably evil in Palpatine. It's nothing against what JJ did, but if this was the direction they were going to take, I would've liked a hint of it in "The Last Jedi". Another thing I didn't particularly like was how Rey and Kylo could transport matter. We saw a hint of it in "The Last Jedi" when rainwater from Ahch-To got transported to Kylo's hand far away. Then, in this film, we had a necklace and a lightsaber be transported from Rey to Kylo. I just can't wrap my head around it, and it seems like something that should be in Star Trek, not Star Wars. Also, I've had trouble accepting that Force Ghosts can influence matter as well. We saw Yoda cause a lightning strike in TLJ, and in TROS we saw Luke block a lightsaber from being thrown into a fire, and we saw him levitate his old X-Wing out of the water. They're called "ghosts" for a reason. Heck, if they're going to go that route, they might as well have a Force Ghost army in some Star Wars spin-off TV series or film. They can't be killed, after all. Finally, I just did not like the opening space fight scene in the Millennium Falcon. WAY too many jumpcuts and it was paced WAY too quickly. Too fast-paced of a scene way too early in the film. Every film in the original trilogy started out slow, or at least not that intense so soon. Those were my main four gripes.
Here's what I thought they did well: The handling of Princess Leia. If I had not known, I would've thought they filmed Leia's/Carrie's scenes especially for this film. JJ and Chris did a great job of incorporating what they had of Carrie into this film. And her passing was done very well and tastefully. I hate that she never really got to see her son, but I think had Carrie not passed away, JJ had it mind to have her meet Kylo/Ben, or at least project herself to him so that she could try to turn him back to the light. I think they used Harrison Ford/Han Solo in her place. His scene with Ben mirrored their scene on the bridge in "The Force Awakens", even down to some of the quotes. This time, instead of Kylo going from confused to dark side, he went from confused to light side.
I also liked Kylo/Ben turning back to the light. You could tell he was conflicted and when Rey saved his life after stabbing him, he knew he had to be on her side from that point on. Him going after her on Exegol with as much haste and determination as he had shows he cared about her. And his sacrifice to her, very touching. I was hoping he would be able to survive, because how often do you see a redeemed bad guy character that doesn't die? However, the Skywalker saga had to end and it still technically could continue with Ben still alive. And to be honest, I was a Rey/Ben shipper so their kiss was definitely something I wanted to see.
Now to go over technical aspects. To be expected, visual effects and sound were top-notch. Costumes and makeup were very well done, although I think I noticed Kylo/Ben's scar on his face disappearing, but that could be just it fading over time. I'd be surprised if TROS didn't get an Oscar nomination for something, with their likeliest nomination probably being visual effects. Acting was decent; my favorite was Daisy Ridley as Rey. The writing was less than stellar, but they stayed true to the characters at least. Perhaps the best was John Williams' score, his last time scoring a Star Wars film. I always felt the music perfectly suited the scene at the time.
Hard to say if I enjoyed this more than "The Force Awakens". I know I enjoyed it more than "The Last Jedi". I definitely want to see it again in theaters. I wonder if people's second viewings of TROS will make them like it more or less. Based on how the IMDB rating for this film is going up (It was at 6.8, it's now at 7.0), it seems like people like it more on multiple viewings. Anyone who knows me knows that I am a huge Star Wars fan, and if I say this is a satisfying conclusion to the Skywalker saga, then it probably is.
I have to admit I read some reviews of The Rise of Skywalker before seeing it, and most of what I saw was pretty negative. One person even called it the "worst Star Wars film". No way is TROS the worst Star Wars film, but it is not without its faults. I want to get these out of the way first. This is not a perfect film, or even excellent. I think this film is going to divide fans for a long time. It currently has a 6.9 rating on IMDB and a 58% score on Rotten Tomatoes. I think it was better than what those scores indicate. But I certainly don't think it was close to perfect.
First off, I had trouble accepting such a light and goodhearted character we've grown to know and love could be descended from someone so despicably evil in Palpatine. It's nothing against what JJ did, but if this was the direction they were going to take, I would've liked a hint of it in "The Last Jedi". Another thing I didn't particularly like was how Rey and Kylo could transport matter. We saw a hint of it in "The Last Jedi" when rainwater from Ahch-To got transported to Kylo's hand far away. Then, in this film, we had a necklace and a lightsaber be transported from Rey to Kylo. I just can't wrap my head around it, and it seems like something that should be in Star Trek, not Star Wars. Also, I've had trouble accepting that Force Ghosts can influence matter as well. We saw Yoda cause a lightning strike in TLJ, and in TROS we saw Luke block a lightsaber from being thrown into a fire, and we saw him levitate his old X-Wing out of the water. They're called "ghosts" for a reason. Heck, if they're going to go that route, they might as well have a Force Ghost army in some Star Wars spin-off TV series or film. They can't be killed, after all. Finally, I just did not like the opening space fight scene in the Millennium Falcon. WAY too many jumpcuts and it was paced WAY too quickly. Too fast-paced of a scene way too early in the film. Every film in the original trilogy started out slow, or at least not that intense so soon. Those were my main four gripes.
Here's what I thought they did well: The handling of Princess Leia. If I had not known, I would've thought they filmed Leia's/Carrie's scenes especially for this film. JJ and Chris did a great job of incorporating what they had of Carrie into this film. And her passing was done very well and tastefully. I hate that she never really got to see her son, but I think had Carrie not passed away, JJ had it mind to have her meet Kylo/Ben, or at least project herself to him so that she could try to turn him back to the light. I think they used Harrison Ford/Han Solo in her place. His scene with Ben mirrored their scene on the bridge in "The Force Awakens", even down to some of the quotes. This time, instead of Kylo going from confused to dark side, he went from confused to light side.
I also liked Kylo/Ben turning back to the light. You could tell he was conflicted and when Rey saved his life after stabbing him, he knew he had to be on her side from that point on. Him going after her on Exegol with as much haste and determination as he had shows he cared about her. And his sacrifice to her, very touching. I was hoping he would be able to survive, because how often do you see a redeemed bad guy character that doesn't die? However, the Skywalker saga had to end and it still technically could continue with Ben still alive. And to be honest, I was a Rey/Ben shipper so their kiss was definitely something I wanted to see.
Now to go over technical aspects. To be expected, visual effects and sound were top-notch. Costumes and makeup were very well done, although I think I noticed Kylo/Ben's scar on his face disappearing, but that could be just it fading over time. I'd be surprised if TROS didn't get an Oscar nomination for something, with their likeliest nomination probably being visual effects. Acting was decent; my favorite was Daisy Ridley as Rey. The writing was less than stellar, but they stayed true to the characters at least. Perhaps the best was John Williams' score, his last time scoring a Star Wars film. I always felt the music perfectly suited the scene at the time.
Hard to say if I enjoyed this more than "The Force Awakens". I know I enjoyed it more than "The Last Jedi". I definitely want to see it again in theaters. I wonder if people's second viewings of TROS will make them like it more or less. Based on how the IMDB rating for this film is going up (It was at 6.8, it's now at 7.0), it seems like people like it more on multiple viewings. Anyone who knows me knows that I am a huge Star Wars fan, and if I say this is a satisfying conclusion to the Skywalker saga, then it probably is.
Tuesday, December 17, 2019
Top 7 Spots for Tom Brady were he to leave the Pats
Tom Brady, leave New England?! Yep. There’s a lot going on we don’t know about, but
here’s something we do know: He’s not entirely happy. He has saved the team millions of dollars over the years. He took a pay cut so they could afford Wes
Welker one year, and then once Welker wasn’t re-signed Brady was left to wonder
where that money then went. He also hasn’t
really been given weapons in 2019, and he is sorely missing Gronk. Also, his owner is in the midst of a scandal. If I was a betting man, I’d bet he retires a
Patriot and only plays for one team in his career. However, I also would’ve bet Peyton Manning
retires a Colt back in 2010. So, what if Tom Brady wanted to leave and prove he could win without Bill Belichick? I mean, that competitive desire in him may
make him want to do that. There are seven possible teams he could go to if he were to leave the Patriots. Why 7? It's an odd number, but I really think there are about 7 teams, give or take.
7. Dallas Cowboys
Colin Cowherd talked about possibilities for Brady and his pick is the Dallas Cowboys. Yes, they have good talent and may end up replacing their coach, but they are only #7 for me for two reasons. One, Brady grew up a 49er fan and therefore grew up hating the Cowboys. He's not a huge fan of the organization. Two, they have Dak Prescott, who Jerry Jones likes. Sure, his contract is expiring soon, but they'd be foolish to go from a younger Dak to Brady. But I guess they're a distant possibility.
6. San Francisco 49ers
I know, they have Jimmy G, but what if he got hurt again? Or perhaps Brady wants to win a ring as a backup/mentor. The biggest problem with this is that the 49ers can’t afford to pay two quarterbacks that much money. But Brady grew up a Niners fan, so if he had his choice of NFC teams, this would be it.
5. Tennessee Titans
First off, Brady would get to play for his former teammate Mike Vrabel. Tennessee does have a decent roster and their QB position isn't completely solidified. It's kind of a smaller market, which works against them. But the talent is there and with a legit, proven winner at quarterback, they may be able to take the next step. I consider the Titans the dark horses in the Brady sweepstakes, if there ever is any.
4. Denver Broncos
Could Elway persuade another legend to join him? It’s possible. If Manning can win a Super Bowl there, Brady surely can. Broncos fans have loathed Brady for years, so this would be hard for them to accept, which is why the Broncos are only #4. Also, they have Drew Lock, who would probably be traded if this happened.
3. New York Giants
If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em, right? Brady has failed twice to beat the Giants in the Super Bowl, so why not join them? But like the Broncos fans, New York football fans have grown up hating Brady, so this would also be hard for them to accept. But that’s mostly Jets fans who hate Brady. Giants fans are happy they’ve been able to beat him twice. Also, Daniel Jones would be traded just like Drew Lock if this were to happen.
2. Chicago Bears
I have a feeling Brady would love to play under Matt Nagy. Chicago is one of the biggest metropolises in America, and their team has a rich history. Just playing in Chicago for a couple years would make people consider Brady as one of the best Bears quarterbacks ever. It also would be funny that Jimmy Garoppolo is playing for Brady’s hometown team while Brady plays for Jimmy Garoppolo’s hometown team. Trubisky could either be traded or be forced to serve as Brady's backup, but would he be all right with that? Hard to say.
1. Los Angeles Chargers
California? Check. Good roster? Check. Big market? Check. Brady’s best fit is with the Chargers. He could replace Rivers whose best days are behind him. It’s funny Brady could replace Rivers who came into the league AFTER Brady. The Chargers are struggling to gain fans in the LA Market, and getting Brady would immensely help that cause. Brady in LA in the new stadium? Hard to beat that. The only problem with this I see is the Chargers might not have enough of a history or fan base to woo Brady over. But he would know that by signing with the Chargers, it would re-energize the team and bring in a lot of new fans.
Edit: Following the Seahawks-Eagles Wild Card game, Cris Collinsworth and Al Michaels discussed Tom Brady and his future. Michaels prodded Collinsworth and goaded him into picking a team Collinsworth could see Brady going to. His answer? The LA Chargers. Now, he said he has no insider information, but if a well-respected analyst is saying the same team as me, we might be on to something.
Hard to see Brady going anywhere else (that’s if he does leave the Patriots). You can rule out the AFC East and any teams that have entrenched starters for the next several years at least. He’s got a great relationship with Josh McDaniels, so if McDaniels gets a head coaching job somewhere, that team instantly becomes the best possible landing spot for Brady. The only team here that is probably replacing its coach soon is the New York Giants, with the Cowboys as an outside possibility.
Edit: Just for fun, here's why all the other teams would not even be considered:
Buffalo Bills: Josh Allen, division rival
Miami Dolphins: Division rival, bad roster
New York Jets: Sam Darnold, division rival
Baltimore Ravens: Lamar Jackson
Cincinnati Bengals: Small market, bad roster
Cleveland Browns: Bad history
Pittsburgh Steelers: Ben Roethlisberger, AFC Rival
Houston Texans: Deshaun Watson
Indianapolis Colts: AFC Rival, small market
Jacksonville Jaguars: Bad team, small market
Kansas City Chiefs: Patrick Mahomes
Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders: Derek Carr, grew up 49ers fan so naturally dislikes Raiders
Philadelphia Eagles: Carson Wentz
Washington Redskins: Dysfunction, bad roster
Detroit Lions: Matthew Stafford, bad history
Green Bay Packers: Aaron Rodgers
Minnesota Vikings: Kirk Cousins, wouldn't want to copy Brett Favre
Atlanta Falcons: Matt Ryan, recently beat in Super Bowl
Carolina Panthers: Cam Newton, small market, not enough history
New Orleans Saints: Drew Brees
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Bad history, Jameis Winston
Arizona Cardinals: Kyler Murray
Los Angeles Rams: Jared Goff, recently beat them in Super Bowl
Seattle Seahawks: Russell Wilson, beat in Super Bowl XLIX
7. Dallas Cowboys
Colin Cowherd talked about possibilities for Brady and his pick is the Dallas Cowboys. Yes, they have good talent and may end up replacing their coach, but they are only #7 for me for two reasons. One, Brady grew up a 49er fan and therefore grew up hating the Cowboys. He's not a huge fan of the organization. Two, they have Dak Prescott, who Jerry Jones likes. Sure, his contract is expiring soon, but they'd be foolish to go from a younger Dak to Brady. But I guess they're a distant possibility.
6. San Francisco 49ers
I know, they have Jimmy G, but what if he got hurt again? Or perhaps Brady wants to win a ring as a backup/mentor. The biggest problem with this is that the 49ers can’t afford to pay two quarterbacks that much money. But Brady grew up a Niners fan, so if he had his choice of NFC teams, this would be it.
5. Tennessee Titans
First off, Brady would get to play for his former teammate Mike Vrabel. Tennessee does have a decent roster and their QB position isn't completely solidified. It's kind of a smaller market, which works against them. But the talent is there and with a legit, proven winner at quarterback, they may be able to take the next step. I consider the Titans the dark horses in the Brady sweepstakes, if there ever is any.
4. Denver Broncos
Could Elway persuade another legend to join him? It’s possible. If Manning can win a Super Bowl there, Brady surely can. Broncos fans have loathed Brady for years, so this would be hard for them to accept, which is why the Broncos are only #4. Also, they have Drew Lock, who would probably be traded if this happened.
3. New York Giants
If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em, right? Brady has failed twice to beat the Giants in the Super Bowl, so why not join them? But like the Broncos fans, New York football fans have grown up hating Brady, so this would also be hard for them to accept. But that’s mostly Jets fans who hate Brady. Giants fans are happy they’ve been able to beat him twice. Also, Daniel Jones would be traded just like Drew Lock if this were to happen.
2. Chicago Bears
I have a feeling Brady would love to play under Matt Nagy. Chicago is one of the biggest metropolises in America, and their team has a rich history. Just playing in Chicago for a couple years would make people consider Brady as one of the best Bears quarterbacks ever. It also would be funny that Jimmy Garoppolo is playing for Brady’s hometown team while Brady plays for Jimmy Garoppolo’s hometown team. Trubisky could either be traded or be forced to serve as Brady's backup, but would he be all right with that? Hard to say.
1. Los Angeles Chargers
California? Check. Good roster? Check. Big market? Check. Brady’s best fit is with the Chargers. He could replace Rivers whose best days are behind him. It’s funny Brady could replace Rivers who came into the league AFTER Brady. The Chargers are struggling to gain fans in the LA Market, and getting Brady would immensely help that cause. Brady in LA in the new stadium? Hard to beat that. The only problem with this I see is the Chargers might not have enough of a history or fan base to woo Brady over. But he would know that by signing with the Chargers, it would re-energize the team and bring in a lot of new fans.
Edit: Following the Seahawks-Eagles Wild Card game, Cris Collinsworth and Al Michaels discussed Tom Brady and his future. Michaels prodded Collinsworth and goaded him into picking a team Collinsworth could see Brady going to. His answer? The LA Chargers. Now, he said he has no insider information, but if a well-respected analyst is saying the same team as me, we might be on to something.
Hard to see Brady going anywhere else (that’s if he does leave the Patriots). You can rule out the AFC East and any teams that have entrenched starters for the next several years at least. He’s got a great relationship with Josh McDaniels, so if McDaniels gets a head coaching job somewhere, that team instantly becomes the best possible landing spot for Brady. The only team here that is probably replacing its coach soon is the New York Giants, with the Cowboys as an outside possibility.
Edit: Just for fun, here's why all the other teams would not even be considered:
Buffalo Bills: Josh Allen, division rival
Miami Dolphins: Division rival, bad roster
New York Jets: Sam Darnold, division rival
Baltimore Ravens: Lamar Jackson
Cincinnati Bengals: Small market, bad roster
Cleveland Browns: Bad history
Pittsburgh Steelers: Ben Roethlisberger, AFC Rival
Houston Texans: Deshaun Watson
Indianapolis Colts: AFC Rival, small market
Jacksonville Jaguars: Bad team, small market
Kansas City Chiefs: Patrick Mahomes
Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders: Derek Carr, grew up 49ers fan so naturally dislikes Raiders
Philadelphia Eagles: Carson Wentz
Washington Redskins: Dysfunction, bad roster
Detroit Lions: Matthew Stafford, bad history
Green Bay Packers: Aaron Rodgers
Minnesota Vikings: Kirk Cousins, wouldn't want to copy Brett Favre
Atlanta Falcons: Matt Ryan, recently beat in Super Bowl
Carolina Panthers: Cam Newton, small market, not enough history
New Orleans Saints: Drew Brees
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Bad history, Jameis Winston
Arizona Cardinals: Kyler Murray
Los Angeles Rams: Jared Goff, recently beat them in Super Bowl
Seattle Seahawks: Russell Wilson, beat in Super Bowl XLIX
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