Guess Who’s Back

I’ve finally made my return to the Classic City after a refreshing break at the Ranch in Texas and an extended stay in the Roc. The winter weather in Texas was wonderful, mid 70’s and beautiful light blue skies. Christmas was wonderful as usually. I got several gift certificates, clothes, and some cash. Bean hit the jackpot on Christmas, receiving a PSP from Santa.

I hit the jackpot in another manner – I won $55 playing blackjack at a casino in Shreveport, Louisiana. Let’s just say the family took a three hour road trip in Sinbad’s big magic carpet. Mom and Sinbad were the big casino winners, making my $55 look like chump change. This was my first time playing blackjack at a casino, it was an interesting experience, surprisingly fun and the dealer was very helpful.

The Atlanta Falcons and UGA Bulldogs could’ve used our luck. First, let’s look at the Falcons’ humbling loss to the Carolina Panthers. Atlanta’s defense looked weak. At certain points during the game, I felt I could’ve broken a 30 yard run. What happen to our scrappy run defense? Anyway, the Falcons did end the season on an offensive high note. Michael Jenkins, “Rowdy” Roddy White, and Brian Finneran made some impressive catches and Michael Vick looked good throwing and running the ball. Big ups to Warrick Dunn – he rushed for over 1,400 yards this season. That’s amazing for any running back, especially someone whose 5’9 and weights 180 pounds. Yes, he’s our size; I guess we no longer have an excuse for why we didn’t make it to the league. I think the Falcons offense will be tight next season; hopefully, they’ll sure up the defense in the off season.

Speaking of defensive letdowns – what happen to the G-Unit defense during the first quarter of the Sugar Bowl? Twenty-eight points in the first quarter is unacceptable. West Virginia looked like offensive world beaters and UGA looked like they were moving in slow motion. The G-Units only saving grace, they held West Virginia to 10 points for the remainder of the game. I can only say one thing - big ups to the Mountaineers for stepping up in the big game! Their win will help the morale of their community as they deal with the tragic coalmine disaster.

It was good to see D.J. Shockley lead the Bulldogs one last time. He looked great, showing arm strength, speed, accuracy, and toughness, as he help put 28 points on the board. I hope Shockley gets an opportunity to play in the NFL. He’s a great character guy and has great athletic skills. Good luck Shock in the Senior Bowl and NFL Combines.

Speaking of bowls, yesterday’s Rose Bowl was amazing! Vince Young is a quarterback stud. Son had 467 total yards – going 30 of 40 for 267 throwing yards and rushing for 200 yards and 3 touchdowns. If you want to see amazing, see the final play of the Rose Bowl; Vince Young checks the passing progress, no one’s open, so he scrambles for the go ahead touchdown. I’m glad Texas answered Southern California’s challenge, and I’m looking forward to next year’s NFL season so I can see more of Vince Young, Reggie Bush, Matt Leinart, and LeDale White. All four of these guys left it all on the field. Go Longhorns!*

Texas wasn’t the only champion crowned yesterday; Goochie Man’s Dynasty was crowned the integral 2005 PiB Techmo Bowl Champion! Big ups to Goochie Man! Second place goes to Miguel Lebanon’s Atlanta Punishers; third place goes to Slick’s Ellenwood Hustlers, fourth place goes to me – S. Dash and my Classic City Apes, and fifth place goes to Wuyba’s C-Town Fightin Whities. I want to say thank you to Swamps, Bean, Night Train, The Shad, Brit Meat, and Cali Girl for participating. If you think you’d be interested in playing some fantasy football, let your man know and I’ll put you in the game.

* Don’t get it twisted; I still bleed Georgia Bulldog red and black. I’m only singing Texas’ praise for two reasons: (1) the game was amazing and after a win like that, that deserve some credit, and (2) because my family relocated there and the Longhorns are Bean’s favorite team and he schooled me in some Longhorn Football 101.