SWEET FEET, or
Unfulfilled Dreams?
ntil the 1950s, many quarterbacks in the National Football League were very much of the rushing breed, spearheading offenses by running forms of the option or other conservative looks meant primarily to keep the ball on the ground, where interceptions and other risks were limited to a minimum. Eventually, the second half of last century spawned a new type of signal-caller, one represented by Otto Graham, Y.A.Tittle, Roman Gabriel, and others that began to let balls fly, allowing teams to strike quickly and deftly, all the while putting opponents on notice that six points could be a mere play away. Thus, what evolved and became eventually known as the “pocket-passer” developed—quarterbacks, who were employed to regularly drop back in between their offensive tackles, pick out a receiver who ran an effective route, and deliver a strike in between that pass catcher’s number for positive results. The Pittsburgh Steelers’ Terry Bradshaw was a prototype of such a species, as was his preceding colleague Johnny Unitas of the Baltimore Colts. And without a doubt, the creation of the American Football League in 1960—a sect which later was absorbed by the NFL to help form the now existing American Football Conference—paced the trend of the sport’s virgining and flourishing aerial attack, bringing excitement and an innovative style to a game which at that time easily took a back seat to baseball as our nation’s premier game. Ironically, though naturally, the position of quarterback continued its morphing state, incorporating newfound passing ways—but with a twist—thru a thrower who could drop back with the best of his rivals, while still having the athletic ability to get away from pressure, calling his own number in creating offense by both scrambling and design with his legs, also sprinting around the field in bringing positive yardage and keeping defenses honest in terms of how they will defend. One didn’t need to look much farther than all-time greats Roger Staubach and Fran Tarkenton, of the Dallas Cowboys and Minnesota Vikings respectively, to find examples of these effective “hybrid-like” leaders. Also not shockingly, both passers guided their squads to much success—eight Super Bowl appearances in tandem. Surely, that latest version of NFL quarterback proved positive, though without question so did the natural ability of the applicable players themselves, for throwers who
U
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by Phil Meyers
excelled at the level of Staubach and Tarkenton were not falling from trees. Because not everyone was Staubach and Tarkenton, and because human nature constantly looks for the newest and most updated version of a way to accomplish an aim or goal, NFL coaches and “brass” searched for quarterbacks who excelled with their legs, even if at times it meant sacrificing some quality in efficiency and accuracy in topperforming arms. Effectively, that generation of quarterbacks brought somewhat with it a full-circle evolution of the game’s
early signal-callers, imposing offense through the position’s running ability, if not more so than the players’ passing attributes. Though it must be made clear that the applicable players’ style in such a circumstance does not preclude his tools of arm strength or decisionmaking prowess. Rather, what exists is a propensity for particular skills that skew heavily in favor of running to create offense over throwing the ball. Additionally, this genre of quarterback, one that gained momentum in the 1970’s, still very much exists today.
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Originally spurred by offensive leaders like the nomadic Vince Evans, the “running first” QB’s delivered exciting combatants, represented in sample by Rodney Pete and “poster boy” for the method— Randal Cunningham. Moreover, “perfecting” the category of a “running” quarterback had just recently fell to the now muchmaligned Michael Vick, an athlete who currently finds his career very much in doubt due to off-the-field circumstances. Therefore, the Tennessee Titans’ Vince Young becomes the most modern model of snap-taker to roll off the assembly
September 24, 2007
game plans. For example, if a team runs so heavily in hopes of success, a defense will soon crack the opponent’s approach and stack many players at the line to smother a running back’s attempt at moving the ball forward by foot. One, there won’t be much room to run, with many holes quickly closing, or not existing at all. Two, little time will present itself for a quarterback to throw in the few opportunities he has to pass, for the “D” would require just slight instance to reach, pressure, and/or sack a QB that finds as many as eight stalwarts looking to disrupt a play. Conversely, the same is true with teams that pass so much that defenses double team or “gimmick” their looks in disrupting countless throws throughout a game. By consequence, a quarterback must be cognizant in avoiding a game-plan which includes too much forward running, even if that scurrying is done through means of passrush evasion or intended scrambling. Thus, he must actually unleash enough to keep teams’ defenses honest. In theory, such run-heavy quarterbacks are aware of, and try to stay within means of adhering to a relatively even approach when passing and rushing. However, these same players have a game that, whether conscious or not, makes them want to run when the chips are down. And in the end, it often causes ultimate failure. Steve Young has proven the most successful in acting as a “running type” of quarterback, though his def-
inition is very sketchy at best under this classification, for just as easily he might deemed part of the “Staubach and Tarkenton” mold. In any event, it took Young until the 1994 season—deep into his career— as a San Francisco 49’er to win an initial title as a starter. True it’s great to have a signalcaller who can move around and create positive yardage and scoring situations when circumstances present the opportunity; though keep in mind, that in today’s overall scope of NFL football, a quarterback is paid to throw the ball. That’s why we have running backs! They are the ones employed to run! Modern “Staubach” models like former Denver Broncos’ leader John Elway have proven to be the most successful when they can be found, as a tremendous passer who can threaten with his legs on occasion proves mightily lethal. However, until we possess athletes such as these on a regular basis—a luxury that the League will probably never realize—true drop-back, pocket passers appear best; they alleviate defensive pressure by keeping such units in check thru disrupting overcommitting and thwarting gameplans, while still allowing running backs to ply their given skill…running the football. It seems to have played out nicely for Dallas’s Troy Aikman, Miami’s Dan Marino, and most recently the Colts’ Peyton Manning—hasn’t it? Nonetheless, the debate continues.
PLACE YOUR AD HERE line in terms of talent and style, hoping to stamp his influence on the game. In the end, as with any evaluation, comes deciding what script is best for a quarterback in optimizing his team’s success. With that, perhaps an examination of football strategy becomes necessary. As such, it is often documented
September 24, 2007
that teams “use the run to set up the pass,” or vice versa, for offensive glory. Sure, that is a policy which is regularly preached; but really, what lies within its true meaning? The reason why it is imperative to achieve a relative balance between passing and rushing is because it keeps defensive opponents honest in how they will deal with offensive
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B
elieve it or not, there were some good things to be taken away from the 3-1 series loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Yes, good things. I'm very aware of the obvious shortcomings, but it wouldn't be much fun for anyone to just relive those. Actually, just for the heck of it, I'll give a quick recap of the forgettable events: Zambrano faltered in yet another shaky start, and took it upon himself to cry and moan over the boos he received; the offense managed a mere 17 runs over the four game set (4.25 RPG); Ryan Dempster blew his third save of the season in the finale; and the usually reliable pitching staff surrendered a comparatively whopping 26 earned runs (6.50 ERA). Oh yeah and the Cubs are now tied with the Milwaukee Brewers for the NL Central division lead, with the St. Louis Cardinals only a game behind. Now that that's out of the way, let's look at the good things. One of the things the Cubs have been struggling with all season is patience. The lineup has a lot of aggressive hitters who like to go after the first pitch. Naturally, the club has been close to the bottom of the league in drawing walks for the entire season. Averaging just over three walks per game entering the series, the Cubs drew 18 free passes during the four-game set, against a very good LA pitching staff - one not known for walking hitters. In fact, Dodgers pitching was tops in the NL in K's entering the series, striking out an average of 7.4 hitters per game, but against the Cubs, they managed 6.75. Not great, but against a strikeout staff, you'd expect a team that strikes out a lot to bolster the pitching team's punch-out numbers, rather than bring the average down. This patience in which the Cubs dabbled did them well. The offense didn't score many runs, this is true but they were getting hits. While only producing those 17 runs, they did connect for 38 hits in 133 at-bats, which is good enough for a .286 team
average. Unfortunately, the Cubs hit into ten double plays over the four games, and did not get many hits with runners in scoring position. So, while they put men on base frequently, they usually stayed there. Other than Carlos Zambrano, the Cubs got quality
and whether or not he could still pitch in Wrigley. He delivered in both cases. Marquis has been known as an unreliable second-half pitcher, but he and pitching coach Larry Rothschild have developed a good rapport with each other, and seem to have fig-
been hot recently down at AA Tennessee, so Lou Piniella and Jim Hendry thought to call him up. Good call. Hart's big-league debut was forced upon him in the eighth inning with the bases loaded and no outs in the second game of the series. After walking the first batter he faced, he then retired six of the next seven batters, giving up only that walked-in run (which was charged to Will Ohman). Between Soto, Hart, and Sam Flud (on paper, a Mike Fontenot doppelganger) the preview of Cubs prospects was an encouraging sign amidst the messy series. The conclusion of the series brings an end to the portion of the schedule where the Cubs are forced to face good teams, which is good news. To be frank, this is a team that has done very poorly against respectable opponents. Luckily, the worst the final 23 games holds for the Cubbies is a series against the scuffling Marlins, and some interdivisional match-ups. This is fortunate, because the Cubs still have a lot to iron out. Simply put, Will Ohman (5.23 ERA) and Ronny Cedeno (.111 AVG) should never be allowed to put on a Cubs uniform again. Now that that's been said, the bullpen needs to relax. They should be wellrested, as the past three games have all seen quality starts from the rotation. And with rookies and otherwise would-be minor-leaguers handling some of the work load, horses like Bob Howry, Michael Wuertz and Carlos Marmol should be able to gather themselves a bit for the home stretch. With recent off-days, the same goes for left-side infielders Aramis Ramirez and Ryan Theriot. Auxiliary players like Daryle Ward, Matt Murton and Craig Monroe, all seem to have found ways to be constructive when called upon, but Lou has yet to really find a lineup he's comfortable putting onto the field every day. That is not something a manager should still be fiddling with in September.
The Limp
Page 12
t o
by Glenn Anderson
t h e
FINISH outings from our starting pitchers. Ted Lilly, Jason Marquis, and in for his second tour of duty with the club, Steve Traschel - all pitched quite well, giving up seven runs in 19 2/3 innings of work (3.20 ERA). Lilly has easily been the most reliable and consistent starter in the Cubs rotation all season, so there wasn't much shock in seeing him go out and perform the way he did on Wednesday night. The other two, however, were very important. The Cubs obviously wanted to see if the experience they sought out in Traschel came equipped with any of the skill leftover from his youthful, all-star days,
ured out whatever it was that historically has held Marquis back in the later months of the summer. On further positive notes, Steve Traschel wasn't the only player making his 2007 debut in a Cubs uniform this series. September call-ups summoned several players from the minor leagues; some of whom weren't even on the radar of the average Cubs fan. Yes, Geovany Soto won league MVP honors in Triple A this season, and had a very promising performance Wednesday night in the Cubs' lone victory - but who'd ever heard of Kevin Hart before Tuesday night? I certainly hadn't, but apparently he'd
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September 24, 2007
The soon-to-be first place Cubs playing during the Crosstown Classic at U.S. Cellular Field.
While the Cubs have had a problem hitting left-handed pitching all year, they now have an even bigger issue: the fact that they struggle against good pitching, period. Though they travel to face an underwhelming
opponent in Pittsburg, the one thing the Pirates have going for them is quality starting pitching. Nevertheless, with the Cardinals traveling to Arizona to face the formidable D-Backs, and Milwaukee
heading to Cincinnati for a date with the Reds, the Cubs seem to have the best chance of nabbing the division lead by the end of their three-gamer in the Steel City.
Glenn Anderson is a graduate of Chicagoland's Evanston Township High School and Pitzer College in beautiful southern California. He is a life-long, die hard Cubs fan; thankfully this has not damaged his psyche to the point where he can't intelligently comment on the team.
Alfonso Soriano’s first homerun during the first game of the Crosstown Classic. September 24, 2007
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by D.K. Wilson
Any human who can look at the simple fact that Barry Bonds has hit 756 home runs, amassed 2,915 hits and 1,981 RBI in 2,590 fewer at-bats two thousand five hundred and ninety than Henry Aaron and spit at it has no place in or around the game.
B
arry Bonds did it. Number 756 was a 435-foot blast on a 3-2 count off Washington Nationals starting pitcher Mike Bacsik. During the ceremony after he hit the record-setter, Henry Aaron appeared on the Jumbotron and congratulated Bonds. Bud Selig called Bonds in the clubhouse. And after the game Bonds said he is going to continue to play the game taught to him by his father, Bobby, and by Willie Mays. With that said, a thank you needs to be extended to Bud Selig. Thank you for choosing to end the Herculean effort you undertook of following Barry Bonds and stopping in San Diego instead of continuing to the city where he would surely break the record, San Francisco. It was so nice not to see the camera pan to you in a box or in a seat close to the field next to Peter
Page 14
McGowan with that vacuous look on your face; if it was accompanied by drool, they could cart you away to an anonymous convalescence. It was nice because we didn't have to watch someone remind you to stand up and act the part of commissioner of the national pastime. Though after 755 and being prodded to stand, you audaciously turned your back on Barry Bonds and the world, and showed that you are quite the ass. Thank you Bud - for saving us the chore of ciphering your every movement. Those of us who witnessed 756 did not have to watch you hem and haw on the field. We did not have to witness the scowl on Willie Mays' face when he handed you the microphone. We did not have to witness you, Bud, on the field and unable to look Barry Lamar Bonds in the eye. No more than 20 minutes after game's end, the onslaught of negative press began. Why this must happen is unknown. There is no good reason to purposely dampen Bonds' accomplishment by rehashing a report and attempting to make it appear as if it was made today. ESPN's Pedro Gomez was the second person to ask a question during the postgame press conference. Of course he asked something about the record and controversy. In a wonderful moment, Bonds summarily dismissed Gomez, looked to the opposite side of the room, and fielded another question. With Barry Bonds, it seems difficult for many people to let "it" go. Even on the night when Bonds hits number 756, people won't let "it" go. They are, as I am writing this, concocting their sad, hate-filled tales; taking unsubstantiated claims and calling them "facts." They are on the phone, texting, emailing, and chatting with others who hate what was done at AT&T Park tonight. From Gomez to the San Jose MercuryNews' Tim Kawakami to Joe Knucklehead blogger, they are writ-
ing hateful words. And the curious thing is, none of them know Barry Bonds at all. Later during the press conference some reporter tried to be slick. He first asked about what was in Bonds' heart as he rounded the bases. Then he asked about his feelings about the record being tainted. Minutes later, another reporter asked if Bonds had something to say to Greg Anderson. Haters are sad. ESPN's Carl Ravitch pontificated to John Kruk and Eric Young about the negative newspaper articles and columns and ".com" commentaries that will say the record is tainted and that Bonds is a cheater. Fortunately, most baseball players and pro athletes, in general, are beginning to understand that the press is ruthless in its attempts to paint Bonds in a negative light. They know the talk of steroids is also an indirect shot at them, too. In response to Ravitch and the questions during the press conference, Kruk said simply, "This is not the time for that" (the negative questions in the press conference)‌ "He was the best then (when Kruk was a young player) he is the best now." And as Barry Bonds himself said in response to the reporter who asked about his record being seen as tainted: "This record is not tainted at all at all... Period"
Addendum, re: Bob Costas: The Grand Dame of baseball, Bob Costas, spoke again this morning. It is highly suspect that Costas suddenly popped up yesterday on Jim Rome's radio show and then on the Mike and Mike in the Morning show today. Though someone out there might have heard or seen Costas before on ESPN-affiliated media sources, I have not. Costas, with former commissioner Fay Vincent after him on Mike and Mike, used Bonds' "tainted" quote
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against him. With Costas, though, I noticed that he has sounded a drumbeat for the phrase, from great baseball player, "one of the top halfdozen in baseball history, to superhuman." He said this yesterday on Rome's radio show and said it again this morning. Costas is a great historian of the game and simultaneously speaks of the game with the wonder of a child and the knowledge of a god; he is arguably the Hermes of his time. However, it is evident that as a commentator, his time has passed. The bitterness with which Costas speaks of Barry Bonds belittles, distorts, and - yes - taints the history of the game. Because of people like Costas, younger generations of baseball and sports fans and journalists will have an increasingly difficult time placing the baseball of the 50s and 60s in context with today's game. This contextualization would be a task for someone like Costas. But it is not. No man or woman can speak with the contempt Costas has for the greatest player to don spikes and relate the history of the game to the public in a reliable manner. Any human who can look at the simple fact that Barry Bonds has hit 756 home runs, amassed 2,915 hits and 1,981 RBI in 2,590 fewer at-bats - two thousand five hundred and ninety - than Henry Aaron and spit at it has no place in or around the game. When viewed with those at-bats in mind, Costas comes off more like a bitter revisionist - or a madman. Sadly, Costas cannot be trusted. The once "wonder boy" of television has gone from superhuman chronicler of sport to thief in the night stealing light from today's athletes; quite like "the other side" of the god - Hermes - he so mirrors. D.K. Wilson is a freelance sports writer. He is better known on the internet as "DWil," and writes for AOL, The Fanhouse and the sports blog writers collective, The Starting Five.
September 24, 2007
RED, WHITE
&
by Phil Meyers
BLUE... and GOLD? B
We as a nation desperately need to recover the desire and wherewithal that made us successful on the court, for enemy basketball nations take tremendous pride in knocking America off its mighty pedestal. achingly return a much-yenned American swagger to the forefront. At least it seems so. Finally, it's not just about Bryant, but also his ability to impart the leadership, experience, drive, and of course ability to players such as LeBron James and Jason Kidd. It will be they who will determine the amount of success that the United States have in these upcoming qualifying efforts, as well as in the Olympics one year hence. The talk is certainly there, but what about the walk? Phil Myers is a freelance writer. He is also a columnist and reporter for YourSportsFan.
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their particular game has to offer. Aside from having the trait of elite skill in that profession, they must maintain intangible assets that set them people apart from and above all other athletes. Most important are two attributes not associated with the physical make-up of a player. One is heart. The other is acting as a consummate teammate. And unless an individual maintains both qualities, he can hardly be mentioned by any competent sports mind as a star. As one develops physical skill, so too can that same player enhance the aforementioned intangible abilities. Some athletes get this premise off the bat, others hone it over time; and some never find the appropriate underlying meaning at all. But still, that's what makes a star. This examination returns full circle to our current United States basketball team, a group led by Kobe Bryant. Now he appears ready to lead, not just with physical ability but also with heart and efficient teamwork. Though certainly he should be tabbed with the duties of taking a game-deciding shot in the last seconds, it is the way he has admirably carried himself with fellow American mates in preparing for an upcoming attempt at restoring USA basketball tradition that makes him most dangerous. It is now, in his eyes, about the team… and winning - demonstrating to national team peers what it takes to be a champion. Maybe Kobe wasn't ready to guide American efforts until now, needing to mature as a player and man; though currently, Bryant's addition might just
•
September 24, 2007
fabled "Dream Team" - players on the national level have failed to deliver the drive, passion, and hustle required to attain ultimate victory. Essentially, America has laced up their proverbial shoes, rolled the ball on a court, and expected optimal results. And maybe, just maybe, that could have worked 15 or 20 years ago… but not today. Ironically, it seems the United States sides which were most driven throughout history were also the ones consisting of "Dream Team" stars; but that's what made those same groups and athletes so special - not just the gift, but more so the heart. Today's domestic basketball landscape includes professional participants from so many different lands Argentina, China, and Span to name a few. In turn, those respective national squads now have many of their stars toiling on NBA hardwood floors with their American contemporaries. So not only do such athletes increasingly improve alongside elite colleagues as playing with the best only makes one that much better - but the same foreigners play with heart, a component United States natives once owned, many moons past. We as a nation desperately need to recover the desire and wherewithal that made us successful on the court, for enemy basketball nations take tremendous pride in knocking America off its mighty pedestal. Once again, the United States must act as if it is the hunter rather than the hunted, hungry with a lethal performance and lofty but much-attainable goals, including a 2008 Beijing Gold medal. Until this year, much of the "Drive, Desire, Heart, etc." pep-talk may have been lip-service, and probably too it has been overly-pontificated by coaches, players, team officials, and media alike. Because obviously "We" are the best - but without the effort no results will permeate. And additionally, the American public has been inundated with the commercial campaign of compiling a "team," rather then a conglomerate of starts. Really, such a claim - or its thinly veiled offering - is nonsense! No, for all intents and purposes the United States should be represented by stars. The mistake that many often make is in recognizing what the word "STAR" represents. Star athletes, in any sporting arena, represent truly the best of what
S A L E S
eginning on August 22 and running through September 2 in Las Vegas, Nevada, the United States Men's National Basketball team will again attempt to reclaim its title as the world's most prominent squad. The effort commences by way of qualifying for the 2008 Summer Olympics that are to be contested in Beijing, China. Only 15 years ago, in 1992, the USA assembled what many consider the best team EVER formed - for ANY sport - with the likes of all-time legends Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird leading the way. In 2007, however, that mystical collection seems light years past, as the team now ekes in regular fashion into medal rounds and Bronze medal achievement, rather than cementing an expected fate with a much-coveted Gold. Instead of dwelling on the United States' recent and much underaccomplished record - one checkered with constant failure, lastly on the national stage in the 2006 FIBA World Championships where Uncle Sam's faithful registered yet another disappointing 3rd place finish - fans this time can have optimism that our great round-ball nation will recover its good standing as basketball's best. Success rests most on the able shoulders of Kobe Bryant, an individual who has really never had - or on some occasions never desired - the opportunity to represent the Red, White, and Blue. Be it due to injury or "fatigue," Bryant has missed out on donning the nation's colors and attempting to truncate the United States' rapid downfall on the world stage. It will be Kobe's cunning, leadership, and tremendous skill that pave domestic efforts for success, for without a doubt the three-time NBA world champion possesses the experience, killer instinct, and clutch ability that is a must for Olympic greatness. It may be easy to think that the United States can bring home a Gold in any basketball competition it partakes in, as certainly we produce a great deal more than our share of hoops talent. But there is more to the equation than mere raw athletic ability and hardwood skill, and that's what most glaringly brings players such as Bryant and his eleven mates under the microscope. In years past - ever since the close of the USA's first three editions of its
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SECOND CHANCES
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he bandwidth for www.mikevick.com has exceeded its limited, or so a blank screen told me when I tried to visit the graphics-heavy site earlier today. That's a shame, because now more than ever, I'd like to buy some Michael Vick merchandise. If nothing else, I'd like to wear the jersey around town; because aside from being either a good conversation starter or an invitation to get punched in the face, it would be a nice reminder that talent and basic decency don't always go hand in hand. By now you know all the charges, but in the interest of being thorough, here's a quick recap of what happened to Vick. An illegal dog fighting operation was found on his property in Virginia, so like any good family member he blamed it on his goofy-looking cousin Davon Boddie. With 'cuz in tow, Vick got a haircut, pleaded not guilty and lied to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and the Atlanta Falcons management as the police began to round up Vick's "friends." Then came the sadism; after all, it's just not a dog fight without a little sadistic killing. Reports that Vick was personally involved in executing "underperforming" dogs via electrocution or drowning began to surface like an ugly boil in need of lancing. Oh, this was also around the time that his "friends" decided to turn state's evidence against him. It makes sense that Vick probably felt helpless at that point. He'd been caught. The evidence was overwhelming and his posse had ditched him. The days of counting his bloody money were over and now it was time to do what anyone does when they are caught and running out of options - make a heartfelt apology, plead guilty and pray for mercy. There's been a lot of debate over whether Vick should get a second
chance. "Should Vick be banned?" read the headlines as columnists try to objectively lay out the pros and cons of the situation. The better question would be "Why should we give Vick a second chance?" The 27-year-old stud quarterback with a $130 million contract was running a dog fighting operation in which he allegedly killed dogs for sport. Think about that for a second, then get back to me on whether or not you believe he deserves another go at leading the Falcons to third place in the NFC South. And didn't
EDITOR | Matt Kolsky
Vick get to this point because he'd already been given numerous chances to stop screwing up? It's not as though "Ron Mexico" was exactly a model citizen before all this happened. From allegedly giving a se'orita genital herpes when he knowingly had the disease (settled out of court) to trying to carry a water bottle with a secret compartment onto an airplane, Vick took himself out of the running for "World's Greatest Guy" a long time ago. Just how many chances is the NFL supposed to give a bona fide
wreck of a human being? Granted, Vick didn't try to kill any human beings, so at least he's not as bad as former Carolina Panthers wide receiver Rae Carruth. But Vick is looking at possibly a year of jail time for what many consider to be a heinous crime. America is the land of second chances and that's what makes us great, but in the case of Vick it seems like the NFL would be doing him a disservice by letting him play again. This is a man whose personal issues are far bigger than the size of his talent. Perhaps a stint in jail, $22 million (the signing bonus he could owe the Falcons for not playing this season) and a lifetime ban will help clear his foggy judgment. In the meantime, the Falcons will turn it over to No. 3 man Joey Harrington. No, it's not looking good in Atlanta, but a team has to have some integrity, even if it's at the expense of losing. In many ways, it was sweet justice that Tank Johnson was little help to the Bears in their Super Bowl flop, a trip he should never have been allowed to make. It's sad that most football fans half-expect to hear that players are doing jail time, which is why I'd be opposed to banning anyone who has served a sentence. After all, the Bengals still have to field a team. But is it too much to ask that if our star athletes are doing inhuman things, we strip them of their fame and glory in the hopes that they'll join the rest of us here on planet Earth? At this point, Vick needs to learn how to be a functional citizen not a superstar. Dustin Michael Harris is a Kentucky native who has followed Chicago sports since he was a kid because he’s a glutton for punishment. In addition to being a lazy young person, he is also a columnist for the The Naperville Sun and the paper’s in-house college basketball fanatic. He can be reached at dustinmichaelharris@gmail.com or via The Sun’s blog at www.napersun.com/heatindex.
COVER PHOTO BY: Warren Wimmer
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The
Beckham
by Jesse Brasher
BOOM Q
uick: Who's the second-best player in MLS? Okay, ready? Yeah, I can't come up with an answer, either. Once you get past David Beckham, the MLS is a blur of mediocre foreign players, mediocre Americans, and, well that about covers it. Throw in a few over-the-hill former "superstars" and you've got yourself a league. For the casual soccer fan, the MLS is unbearable. The play is sloppy and slow, lacking the excitement of the South American leagues, the passion of the Premiership, the talent of La Liga, or the hard-fought defensive prowess of the Serie A. The spate of unknown players and lackluster teams with little history means nothing to cheer for. Even for more serious soccer fans, the MLS is less than appetizing. Personally, I'm constantly at odds with myself - wanting to support U.S. soccer, wanting to care, and ultimately clicking over to Gol TV or Fox Sports World to see some real action. Watching the MLS is like watching the NBA in that period between Jordan's last run with the Bulls and The Lebron James and Dwayne Wade Era: you might tune in for the playoffs, but a regular season match is about as boring 9-5 at the office. (To all the kids: I know, NBC makes it look cool. It's not.) Thanks to the aforementioned Mr. Beckham, however, that's all about to change. Last Wednesday, I found myself watching the SuperLiga semifinal, L.A. Galaxy-D.C. United, enthralled, following every move the superstar made. It felt like something was about to happen: he looked healthy, he was making crisp passes, he was wearing the captain's "C"‌ In the 28th minute, something did happen. Following a D.C. foul on Carlos Pavon, Beckham lined up 25 yards out for a free kick. The obligatory "Bend it like Beckham" comment was thrust upon us, to my annoyance - but really, isn't that what everyone was thinking? Hoping for? At that moment, I realized that I was excited about a regular-season MLS game - a first for me. Before we go any further, let me qualify something: I am by no means a Beckham fan. I think he's had a great career, but I think it's one which has arched and is on on the slow decline that every great player in every league in every sport inevitably faces. I think he's a prima donna; a shameless self-promoter who is, in my book, more celebrity than footSeptember 24, 2007
baller. His two most recent clubs Manchester United (the EPL's equivalent to the Yankees) and Real Madrid (La Liga's equivalent to, again, the Yankees) - are teams I despise on principle. Plus, one of my ex-girlfriends was borderlineobsessed with him, and those are the kind of grudges that really stick. But there I was, in spite of myself, standing up as if to prepare myself for an event that requires its audience to be upright, showing respect for a unique experience. My hands folded across my chest, feigning objectivity and indifference, but completely given away by my fingers drumming away against my arm. I thought about how perfect it all seemed, especially given the loudening chorus of sportswriters questioning Beckham's toughness and commitment to playing for the Galaxy. He could quiet the crowd with one sweep of his right foot. It seemed so perfect a set-up that I knew, inevitably, Beckham would fail us, lining a shot off the six-man wall set up in front of him, or passing off to another player in a lame attempt to catch the United off guard. Mr. Beckham, however, did no such thing. Instead, he beautifully curled a shot into the back right end of the net. United keeper Troy Perkins, who had initially moved left with the shot, stood with his hands on his hips as the crowd went wild. His teammates rushed, Posh Spice fixed her hair and offered a golf clap, and the man himself smiled, undoubtedly relieved to get that first goal out of the way. He played well the rest of the game, offering up a nice assist to teammate Landon Donovan, and left after 63 minutes of play. It was a sparkling first start for the midfielder. He notched his first goal, his team won, and the Galaxy won a berth in the SuperLiga final against Pachuca of the Mexican Primera Division. But more than anything, this was a preview of what should be a banner 5 years for Beckham. As he showed earlier this year, when he came back from injury to lead Real Madrid's late-season surge to the La Liga title, Beckham can still play. On a team of stars like Ruud van Nistelrooy, Fabio Cannavaro, and Robinho, Beckham often looked like the best player on the pitch. After a disappointing 2006 World Cup, an injury-filled season and delegation to the bench, Beckham's last run with Real Madrid was proof that, while not among the
greatest players in the world, he's still talented enough to be a factor in a dominant league. Not that he even needs to be that good. If we're being honest, there's no one in the MLS even close to Beckham's level. In his two starts with the Galaxy, he's looked great in spite of a nagging ankle injury. His minutes have increased with each match. The other Galaxy players just look better when he's out there with them. There's little doubt that Beckham will dominate. The bigger question: Will anyone care? Right now Beckham is a novelty. People are excited to see him play, as they should be. As expected, there's been some crossover press, including what seems like an almost daily appearance on ESPN's "Pardon the Interruption." Attendance is up at the Galaxy's road games - over 65,000 saw L.A.'s 5-4 loss to the New York Red Bulls Saturday at Giants Stadium, a Red Bulls franchise record. ESPN's coverage of Beckham's first appearance (against Chelsea on July 21) though admittedly over the top, drew big ratings. A huge buzz followed Beckham from across the pond and he's managed to stay in the news ever since. But how long can the MLS ride the Beckham train? I think a long time. If Beckham stays healthy, the MLS will have, for
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the first time, a truly dominant player, and a very marketable one at that. We should see some more transfers over the next couple of years as teams envy the revenue-generating machine the Galaxy have acquired. Note the case of Cuauhtemoc Blanco, the Chicago Fire's answer to Beckham. A fixture in Mexico's Primera Division for years, Blanco is an exciting player, an offensive juggernaut who has already made his mark on the league with a goal and a couple of assists in three MLS games. While not as high profile as Beckham, the Fire think he'll spark more interest in the club as well as raise the level of play of his teammates. It's early, but Beckham's arrival feels like the beginning of a better MLS. And a better MLS will mean more fans and more interest. Then maybe we can actually get a good discussion going over who's the second best player in the league. For the foreseeable future, we still don't know who that is. But even just two starts into his MLS career, there's no doubt about Beckham's claim to the top spot. Jesse Brasher grew up a passionate baseball fan in the No Teams Land of western Kentucky, at the cross-section of Cardinals, Cubs and Reds fans. An out-of-towner, he spends way too much time in Chicago and once had a Diet Coke with Jeff Tweedy. He can be reached at jessebrasher@gmail.com.
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Blackhawk RISING by Lloyd Poast
veryone loves the excitement and challenges of a new beginning. There's something exhilarating about witnessing a spark in its early formative stage and seeing it grow into something truly special. The Chicago Blackhawks may now be at that crossroads between mediocrity and a shooting star. The Blackhawks, whose logo has been ranked among the most attractive in all pro sports, are a proud member of the original six NHL franchises and boast a talented alumni, including the likes of Denis Savard, Tony Esposito, Jeremy Roenick, and Chris Chelios. But though Chicago is rich in history, the recent past has not been so kind. Their on-ice struggles have been well documented, while off the ice controversial moves - such as ownership's refusal to have home games televised locally - have left fans feeling alienated. The upcoming NHL season is the dawn of a new era for the team. After spinning their wheels near the bottom of the standings for the last decade, the Blackhawks finally appear ready to move into the NHL's fast lane. If things continue to fall into place, and all the planets are perfectly aligned, this could be an exciting time to be a hockey fan in Chicago. With a few key moves having been made in the off-season, the
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2007-08 lineup will be a solid mix of youth and experience. GM Dale Tallon added a trio of veteran forwards to compliment the team's youthful core. He signed centers Robert Lang and Yanic Perreault as free agents and made a trade to acquire winger Sergei Samsonov from Montreal. Both Lang and Perreault are in their mid thirties and on the downside of their career, but Lang still piles up enough points to be worthy of maintaining his top six forward status, and Perreault is widely considered to be one of the best face off men in the league. Both will provide a steadying veteran presence for the team's youth movement. Samsonov is the most intriguing of the three and could be an interesting reclamation project. He's only 29 years old and a dynamic offensive talent who won the Calder Trophy during his rookie year. If he can regain the scoring touch that he seemed to lose during his tenure as a member of the Canadiens, the 'Hawks will have a much more balanced attack. Another veteran player that Chicago desperately needs a bounce
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2007-08 SCHEDULE (as of August 9, 2007)
back season from is goaltender Nikolai Khabibulin. The "Bulin Wall" has never really been the impact goalie the 'Hawks envisioned when they signed him to a huge free agent contract two years ago. He was once considered one of the game's elite, and at age 34 he should still be able to turn things around. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the Blackhawks will be relying heavily on several players in the dawn of their careers. Chicago has one of the deepest pools of prospects in the NHL, and several should be ready for prime time. They won the lottery for the entry draft in June and used the first overall pick to select highly touted winger Patrick Kane, from the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League. Blessed with worldclass skills that have left a few NHL scouts saying he is the best stickhandler in all of hockey, he should be a virtual lock to make the team this fall. Jonathon Toews is another highprofile rookie that should be making his NHL debut this October. The third overall draft pick from 2006 may not turn into the pure goal scorer that Kane is, but he plays a solid all-around game and is the more well-rounded of the two. They could make up two thirds of a great line and terrorize opposing defenses for years to come. They both have that "you should have seen them when‌" factor, and it's extremely rare for fans to have the opportunity to watch two potential Calder Trophy candidates playing for the same team. Other potential rookies to watch
September 24, 2007
out for include offensive defenseman Cam Barker, high scoring forward Dave Bolland, and power forward Michael Blunden. All three are blue-chippers and should be impact players in the not-too-distant future. In addition to the rookies and veterans, there's a trio of young Blackhawks entering the prime of their careers who truly hold the keys to the team's success in the next few years. Matin Havlat, acquired from Ottawa at the start of last season, is a true game breaker and one of the league's most entertaining players. When he's on, he can take spectators out of their seats with a dazzling array of moves; making the high price of admission seem a bargain. If he can stay healthy (something he hasn't been able to do the last couple of years) he could finally break out and fulfill his calling as one of the game's elite. Tuomo Ruutu is another player that's been badly bitten by the injury bug. He plays with a reckless, hardhitting style that's entertaining to watch but has taken a major toll on his body. He has a serious back problem that has put his career in jeopardy, but at only 24 years old still carries the potential to be a franchise player. The youngest of this promising threesome, at only 22, is blue-liner Brent Seabrook. He's a blue chip, allaround defenseman that carries the potential to hit 50 plus points, while taking care of things in his own end. It would not be surprising to see him wearing the team's captaincy one day. Although the Blackhawks may not be ready to take the yellow brick road to the Stanley Cup, they are definitely headed in the right direction after years of futility. The groundwork for a rise up the NHL ladder has been laid, and it ought to result in greater attendance at the United Center. Hockey fans in Chicago should brace themselves for a rollicking, exciting, suspense-filled ride that could eventually end with the Blackhawks' rank in the standings matching that of their esteemed logo. Lloyd Poast is an up-and-coming freelance writer with interests in everything from sports to fantasy fiction. He currently resides in Dauphin, Manitoba, Canada.
DATE Oct. 4 6 10 12 13 17 19 20 23 25 27 31 Nov. 3 4 7 9 11 14 15 17 22 24 25 28 30 Dec. 1 5 7 9 12 15 16 19 22 23 26 30 Jan. 1 3 4 6 Jan. 8 9 11 13 16 18 19 22 24 30 Feb. 2 6 7 10 13 14 17 19 20 23 24 27 28 Mar. 2 4 5 7 9 11 12 14 16 19 22 23 26 29 30 Apr. 2 4 6
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OPPONENT Minnesota Detroit San Jose Detroit Dallas St. Louis Colorado Toronto Columbus Boston Atlanta Dallas St. Louis Nashville Columbus St. Louis Detroit Columbus Nashville Detroit Calgary Edmonton Vancouver Tampa Bay Phoenix St. Louis Vancouver Anaheim Calgary Los Angeles Buffalo Florida Nashville Ottawa Edmonton Nashville Los Angeles Los Angeles Phoenix Anaheim Detroit Montreal Dallas Minnesota Nashville St. Louis Colorado Phoenix San Jose Columbus Colorado San Jose Edmonton Calgary Vancouver Columbus Nashville Colorado St. Louis Minnesota Los Angeles Anaheim Phoenix Dallas Vancouver Minnesota Anaheim San Jose Edmonton Detroit Carolina Columbus Calgary Washington Nashville St. Louis Columbus St. Louis Columbus Detroit Nashville Detroit
TIME 7:30 7:30 7:30 6:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 6:00 7:30 6:00 7:30 7:30 7:30 6:00 7:30 7:30 6:00 6:00 7:00 6:00 8:00 9:00 9:00 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 6:00 7:30 6:00 6:00 7:30 6:00 6:00 7:30 6:00 9:30 8:00 9:00 6:00 6:30 7:30 7:30 7:00 7:30 8:00 8:00 9:30 7:30 8:00 4:00^ 8:00 8:00 9:00 6:00 7:00 12:00 7:30 7:30 3:00 7:00 7:30 7:30 2:00 7:00 7:30 7:30 2:00 6:30 7:30 6:00 2:00 7:30 2:00 2:00 6:00 7:30 6:00 7:30 7:30 2:00
*NOTE: All times listed are local Chicago times. Dates and times are subject to change. ^ INDICATES GAME TIME CHANGE. Blackhawks at San Jose Game Time Changed on February 2nd The San Jose Sharks have announced that they have changed their game time for their February 2nd game with the Chicago Blackhawks. The new game time is 4:00 p.m. Chicago time.
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U-TURN DIVE a
by Phil Meyers
T
wenty-three months ago the Chicago White Sox and Houston Astros squared-off in baseball’s Fall Classic. Then, in 2005, the Pale Hose’ World Series appearance was its first in the sport’s premier event since 1959. Likewise had been Houston’s virgining success, as Texas’s Spacemen conquered the National League pinnacle on an initial occasion. For both, their mythical run capped a stretch during which the White Sox and Astros competed for years amongst the best of the big leagues. True for Chicago, the players names were more commonly known
on a regional level, for aside from a hobbled Frank Thomas, most Southsiders carried little national cache. Nevertheless, Mark Buehrle, Paul Konerko, and Aaron Rowand armed the torch amid the Silver and Black faithful, capturing game after game through a wire-to-wire first place regular season, as well as a 7-1 American League playoff record. Conversely, Houston maintained no less than four star-studded names, though two of that group stood even higher on the totem pole. Thus, it was pitcher Roy Oswalt and outfielder/first baseman Lance Berkman who buoyed Astro legends, and very possible future Hall of
Famers in Craig Biggio and Jeff Bagwell. Granted, Bagwell didn’t see much time during most of 2005, hampered by injury; though in any case he was one of the franchise’s all-time greats. The White Sox went on to defeat Houston four-games-to-none in the best of seven clash, despite the match-up going down as one of the “best” sweeps in World Series history— with every game ending in nail biting and ultracompetitive fashion. Certainly, a “bounce here” or “bleeder there” could have changed the eventual champion in an opposite direction. In any case, Chicago and Houston emerged from contenders to cementing their respective status as annual title possibilities, storing concerns throughout both clubs’ top World Series rivals, be they the Yankees, Red Sox, Cardinals, or Mets as appropriate. Quickly however, such an assertion became something which was not to be…well…at least for now. The off-season that followed the 2005 World Series saw Chicago tweak its collection in hopes of further improving a team that only dropped one playoff game. In came slugger Jim Thome for Rowand, a trade engineered between the White Sox and Phillies. Ideally, Thome was acquired in hopes of further increasing an already potent line-up that annually surpassed the 200 home run mark as a club. Too gone was an unreliable Thomas who couldn’t maintain his health on a consistent basis. Possibly it was he who carried the title as 35th and Shields best alltime athlete. Houston maintained much of its core group, feeling that the Astros
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had a solid recipe for success. Nonetheless, Texas’s National League entry had to face the prospects that Bagwell would never play again, a shoulder ailment not allowing the first baseman to partake in competitive action. Although neither reached the post-season in 2006, Chicago and Houston were admirable in their respective campaigns, the White Sox winning 90 games, and the Astros frightening St. Louis down the National League Central stretch run. Both obviously were unhappy in not being able to defend their achievements, though each thought ’07 could bring a rebound effort. In the end, nothing could have been further from the truth, as Chicago and Houston sunk to a position as bottom-feeders in the American and National Leagues. Unthinkable, it was that the White Sox could trail Kansas City for last in its division with only one month of the season remaining. Similarly, could have been un-anticipated futility for the Astros, mired amongst the also-rans of NL Central play, most notably along side Pittsburgh as the sect’s worst. Chicago has outwardly acted in a stable and nurturing manner during its contending hiatus, supporting manager Ozzie Guillen and general manager Kenny Williams, still confident that 2007 failure is merely a blip on the team’s long-term radar screen. Traditionally, this position makes sense, as the White Sox have compiled Major League Baseball’s thirdbest regular-season record since 1990, following only the Yankees and Braves in successful outcomes. Further, the team has money and an owner who is deft in allowing spending when the time is right in Jerry Reinsdorf—though many publicly don’t recognize the man’s cunning decision-making ability. However conceding the above assertion as valid, Chicago carries difficulties they haven’t faced in recent times. First, the team’s minor league system appears barren, as among all the White Sox hopefuls, only Josh Fields—and perhaps Jerry Owens show to pitch-in with any long-term help. Second, and with depleted farm help, the Pale Hose will have to deal big league assets in hopes of improving the top club’s September 24, 2007
divisional position. Thus, exits of Jon Garland, Jose Contreras, and or Konerko become possibilities if the Southsiders are to re-load on the fly. Torii Hunter may be a free agent option, along with the possible reunion of Rowand in center. Others too, like Fields could be repositioned with departures of 2007 underachieving veterans. Mysterious, no matter, were the re-signings of Jermaine Dye recently, as well as Scott Podsednik and Contreras this past off-season, as age and production have become an increasingly looming question. The Sox even had a second bite at getting out from under Podsednik’s deal, with the Cubs claiming the stats-anemic left fielder off trade waivers. Instead, “Pods” was withdrawn, and his non-successful run continues. In sum, the White Sox must be efficient with their dollars this offseason in constructing an overhaul, for if the team isn’t, and doesn’t unload a player like Konerko to a side like the Angels for youth, Chicago will either part with tremendous capital, or sit stable and struggle again in 2008. In turn, Houston faces similar problems, though with a different backdrop. Bagwell has set into the sunset, retiring prior to 2007. Additionally, Biggio has announced his intention to fade away, stepping away from his equipment at season’s end, but not before recording a career 3,000th hit just weeks ago. It has been these two players who have made the Astros’ organization successful for so long; however ironically, it too might be the pair that holds the same club back in seasons to come. And further, both likely, but unintentionally cost manager Phil Garner and general manager Tim Purpura September 24, 2007
their respective jobs, though through not much fault of the brain trust’s own. Regardless of what he could have done, Garner had little to work with in ’07, employing an aging Biggio, along with a young and untested cast of Astros players. Morgan Ensberg had been released after his dreadful play, while Rookie of the Year hopeful Hunter Pence was lost for some time to injury. On the pitching side, Andy Pettitte was allowed to exit for the Bronx along with Roger Clemens. Hence, depletion became the name of the game down South. Acknowledging such, Garner’s axing came primarily for the sake of making change, leaving Purpura under the microscope for culpability. On its face, it may appear he is to blame, though looking deeper; he too shouldn’t have been sacrificed either. In the end, Tim Purpura has been assigned fault and responsibility in regards to the contract of Jeff Bagwell, a protracted dispute over the latter’s employment, as well as whether his contract would could be recouped through means of insurance. Though the first baseman wanted to contribute on-field, management had its hands tied in terms of policy coverage, not being able to play the star while still hoping to realize the policy’s benefit of an injured athlete scheduled to earn in the ballpark of 20 million dollars per year. But Purpura was just following orders, those of owner Drayton McClain, an individual who has his hands on everything Astros, whether armed with acumen on a particular team aspect or not. It was he who provided the money, and it was he who took it away. He wanted Biggio to register his 3,000th hit as an Astro, giving fans a reason to come to the
park. By doing so, McClain has stunted Houston’s growth in player development, Biggio acting as just an example. And failure ensued. No matter, the White Sox and Astros have their headaches, pains unthinkable two short seasons past. Each can overcome their fall, though
delicacy is imperative in how team blueprints are executed with the nearing months and years. Thus, it just goes to show how fragile success can be. Phil Myers is a freelance writer. He is also a columnist and reporter for YourSportsFan.
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo at U.S. Cellular Field.
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FIRE by Phil Meyers Certainly, the Chicago Fire had a better season in mind than their current sixth place standing in Major League Soccer’s Eastern Conference. Sitting with a record of a mere five wins, eight losses, and five ties after 18 matches—which is “good” for 20 points (as of August 14)—Chicago are unlikely to create great damage during the 2007 championship season’s second half. Nevertheless, the Fire aim to truncate the team’s disappointing on-field fortunes as rapidly as possible. Bridgeview’s faithful feature a team in transition, no longer employing the services of players such as accomplished striker Ante Razov, or Premier League defensive contributor Carlos Bocanegra, now at Fulham. Additionally, team captain, and original Chicago fullback, Chris Armas, has announced that this will be is final year playing professional soccer; and although Armas has lost a step or two due to numerous knee injuries, the former USA international certainly was, and remains an undoubted pillar of leadership for the Fire youth movement. At present, Chicago does possess a domestically developed footballer who will spur the club into future years, that in the person of midfielder Justin Mapp, a playmaker who has gained recognition of American National Team coach (and former Fire boss) Bob Bradley. Unfortunately for Chicago, the United States gain is the domestic side’s loss, as Mapp saw extended summer duty with “Sam’s Army” at the Gold Cup (in which the USA captured its title) and Copa America. As a result, the Fire’s premier contributor—Mapp—has been unable to consistently influence Illinois’ top soccer outfit. To respond, team management remarkably hasn’t sat still in hopes of buoying Mapp during the campaign, adding decorated foreign blood in Mexican legend Cuauhtémoc Blanco and Costa Rican assassin Paulo Wanchope, the later a man whose resume includes two tallies in his nation’s 2006 World Cup opener against host country Germany. Meanwhile, Blanco provides a player who can see the field and create, while teaching Chicago’s youth how to play the game at an elite level. Wanchope, further, allows for the Fire to have a player who can find the back of the net amongst the best in the world; and at age 31, he still has a lot to offer. In any event, increased scoring punch has become necessary to terminate the seemingly endless Page 8
Attempt to Shed The Cinders
in Rebuilding Effort
offensive drought, for Chicago have notched a mere 16 goals to date, led at four apiece by forwards Chad Barrett and Chris Rolfe. It feels like ages ago when the Fire won their loan MLS championship during an initial try in 1998, now competing during a 10th season. Back then Mexico’s flamboyant Jorge Campos minded the nets, soon there after to be displaced by Zach Thornton, an enormous man who kept the position until recent time. Though now, Chicago has entered a new goalkeeping era, that of Matt Pickens, who has started all but one of the team’s matches. His goals against ratio of 1.41 may not greatly impress those deeply in the know throughout the league, but anyone witnessing the Fire’s play this season on the defensive side can find sympathy and understanding for the 25 year-old net minder. Often, Pickens has been forced to stop continual prime scoring chances from his opponents. Thus, his six clean sheets (aka shutouts) are eye-opening for the future and what potential the second-year player can bring.
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September 24, 2007
In any event, increased scoring punch has become necessary to terminate the seemingly endless offensive drought.
as one of the MLS’s elite franchis- decide how quickly a championship es. Already, with the likes of Mapp, can return to Chicago. Then, the club can once again set Blanco, and Wanchope, the side has the framework to improve. Barrett the soccer town ‘afire! and Pickens will help as well. Thus, it becomes depth, experience, and a Phil Myers is a freelance writer. He is also a renewed commitment that will columnist and reporter for YourSportsFan.
Unquestionably, Chicago is searching for more consistent team play, much of the reason why it is fighting for its playoff lives down the 2007 stretch. Again, a great deal of the Fire’s lacking results are due to a transitioning side with so much youth, albeit containing a defense desperately needing a revamping, and underachieving players who have come nowhere near expectations when brought into the club. Jim Curtin, an Alexi Lalas wannabe in terms of appearance and performance, has achieved little of both, often beaten by enemy strikers and attacking midfielders. Meanwhile, highly touted midfielder Thiago has yet to find a goal this year. In fact, Thiago’s role has diminished to that of a substitute, starting only 5 of thirteen games in which he has appeared. C. J. Brown, the other original Fire player remaining on the roster, is also in dire need of an able replacement, his effort no longer equaling that of his performance. Though, look for everything to quickly change, optimistically, as the Fire are in the midst of an imminent ownership transfer, one that no doubt will allow for a clear direction which can re-establish Chicago September 24, 2007
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