Guess who’s back, back again, Chucky’s back, tell a friend

(Credit: U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st class Caleb Nunez)

Mark Davis started the press conference on Tuesday by saying, “Raider Nation, this is a big f-ing deal.” You can tell the owner of the Oakland Raiders, is clearly excited – as are we.

Why? Because Jon Gruden is out of retirement and he’s back in black (and silver), people.

(Credit: Instagram/@therealcabbie)

 

Side note: Since when did Davis and Gruden start going to the same barber?

Anyways, Gruden returns to the boys in black after serving as head coach from 1998-2001. And then, every member of Raider Nation remembers what happened next – Gruden headed east to coach the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

I remember as a little girl liking to watch the Bucs games simply because Gruden was the coach.

He’s enthusiastic. He’s real. And, as Gruden said one reason why he’s taking on a head coaching position again, is for a reason all teams want to hear.

“Most of all, I love to win,” Gruden said at the press conference.

 

(Credit: Jack Kurzenknabe)

Let’s face it, Gruden is going to go down as a legend. Actually, he already has.

 

There are only four men to-date that have won the Super Bowl in their first season with a team. Per the NFL, here’s the elite to have done so:

• Don McCafferty – Baltimore Colts, Super Bowl X
• George Seifert – San Francisco 49ers, Super Bowl XXIV
• Jon Gruden – Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Super Bowl XXXVII
• Gary Kubiak – Denver Broncos, Super Bowl 50. 

And let’s be clear, here – that Super Bowl win is the only one the Bucs have under their belt.

 

Who knows, maybe Sean McVay, the youngest NFL head coach ever (31), will get it done this year for the Los Angeles Rams, but that’s another story.

 

Gruden has taken a seven-year sabbatical from coaching and instead has been going the broadcast route, where I’m sure you’ve see him on Monday Night Football giving his Gruden Grinder.

(Credit: Giphy)

 

But if you’re thinking that his break from coaching will take a toll on his first season back, I’d think again.

 

He’s got a solid caliber team with a young leader of a QB in Derek Carr. He’s got the assets, so why not come out the gates hot?

 

Raider Nation’s thinking it, and I’m just saying it.

Even if you hate the Raiders, admit it – you can’t wait to see the headset-throwing, enthusiastic Chucky back on the sidelines, if only for sheer entertainment.

(Credit: Giphy)

Well, maybe not if it’s your team he’s knocking into the ground.

— Hailey
Instagram/@hschellin

 

 

Like Father, Like Son! Family Competition in AZ vs. NAU Saturday

Arizona Defensive Coordinator Jeff Casteel. Photo: Tucson.com

The Arizona Wildcats had a season defining win last year against the Oregon Ducks. Not to mention they did so in Autzen Stadium. They went on to win the PAC-12 South and faced the Ducks once again. This time getting their a$$es kicked.

Photo: Scooby Wright Instagram

Well, it’s a new season and there’s new faces on the field, but the goal is still the same. Can they end up on top of the PAC-12 once again?

Being ranked #22, they kicked off the PAC-12 season  against the Texas-San Antonio Roadrunners. The Wildcats finished with a win, but they sure left fans with concern. The defense couldn’t seem to mesh and remember Scooby Wright III? The guy making all the tackles and sacking the quarterback? Well, he went down and is expected to miss three to four weeks.

During the second half, the offense sparked. QB Anu Solomon threw for four TD’S, no interceptions and completed over 60% of his passes. Okay, hope.

Then in Week 2 they really got the fans going in their 44-20 win over Nevada. Nick Wilson crushed it, picking up 106 yards and two touchdowns on just eleven carries in the first half.

Arizona totaled out with 301 yards on the ground against Nevada, accomplishing something they have only done one other time (300+ rushing yards in one game in 2014 (Pac-12 Championship Game – 301).)

Arizona will now take on Northern Arizona, also undefeated thus far. But let’s be real. The stats for the Wildcats heading into this game are real solid against NAU.

Arizona has won 11 straight contests vs. NAU going back to 1932. 

Jake (middle) and teammates pictured in H.S. Salpointe uniforms. Photo: Kevin Hamlett Twitter.

Damn.

There is a sort of family rivalry going into this game this year however… Arizona’s Defensive Coordinator Jeff Casteel will be taking on a NAU team with a Casteel on the roster- his son.

Lumberjacks redshirt freshman Jake Casteel has been playing mostly on special teams this season, but should see more time at backup linebacker in the future.

Jake Casteel has been a part of Wildcat’s head coach Rich Rodriguez life for quite some time… Like, try 15 years.

“I’ve known him since he was wee little,” Rodriguez said to Tucson.com.

Jake (left) pictured with father and Arizona Defensive Coordinator, Jeff Casteel (right). Photo: Jake Casteel Twitter.

Fifteen years of attending practices and games and hanging around the office, for a then little Jake.

Jake says this will be an experience of a lifetime and both him and his father are excited for the turnout.

Let the rivalry begin! Nothing like some good family competition!

Game kicks off Saturday September 19th at 8 PM in Tucson, AZ. Keep an eye out for Casteel running out of the tunnel… Out of both tunnels that is…

Until Next Time…

Ladies, It’s Time to Turn Down… For WATT- JJ is Single & Ready to Settle Down

Photo: JJ Watt Instagram

So the world is freaking out about JJ Watt.

Right now you’re saying, “DUH Hailey.”

It’s no secret that JJ Watt is one of the hottest players in the NFL right now, if not arguably THE BEST player in the NFL. And when I say “hottest,” it comes with two equally important meanings. 🔥🏈

Catch my drift?

Turns out the most current “hot” topic on JJ Watt isn’t about his stats though. It’s about his personal life. More precisely, his difficult, yet hopeful search “to find the right one.” So, yes – you heard me – the whole world (every girl that watches the NFL) is freaking out about JJ Watt.

In his interview with NFL.com, Watt commented on how his dating life has been going lately.

“People [I know] think that I’ve never dated before, or whatever. But I’m trying. I’m trying. I’m just unsuccessful. My schedule’s so crazy and life’s so busy, it just hasn’t worked.”

And now it’s my turn to chime in on the chiseled all-world Houston Texans defensive end.🏆 Did I mention chiseled?💪🏼

Well JJ, you stole the words from my mouth. Like, sorry I’m not sorry for being a career driven woman with a busy schedule! Squeezing in a full-time boyfriend just hasn’t quite fit into my whole “building an empire” schedule yet.💁🏼

And, as all of this hit the internet this week, Watt posted an Instagram to drop the mic.

Oh yes JJ, you are fine. You are doing just fine, I meant. Just keep doin’ you.

But now that I’m thinking JJ, LIGHT BULB💡… We both lead similar lives- You’re single. I’m single.

Hey, just thought I’d throw it out there…😉

XOXO,

– Hailey

Sacks & Give Backs- The NFL Gives Back to the Community

We all watched the ESPY’s, am I right?

Let’s talk about the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. The Walter Payton Man of the Year Award is an award based on humanitarianism while being an extraordinary individual on and off the field.

Congratulations to all the nominees, Anquan Boldin from the 49ers, Aaron Rodgers from the Packers and lastly, a huge congrats to the winner, Thomas Davis from the Panthers.

Anquan Boldin, one of the most trustworthy wide receivers in the game plays for the San Francisco 49ers and was runner up for the award. He was nominated for the award due to his mission to give back to the underprivileged youth.

The Anquan Boldin Foundation started in 2004, and just last year, Boldin and his wife gave a staggering $1 million donation to the foundation to expand their impact.

Throughout Boldin’s career, 11 students have accepted four-year scholarships. Alone in 2014, four students received $10,000 scholarships to start their college careers. Boldin travels to third-world countries to lend personal aid and fight for political issues. Seriously? That’s how he spends his off season? What. A. Guy.

Now I don’t care if you’re a Bears fan or a what, here’s another player you have to show some respect for: Aaron Rodgers.

Photo: NFL

Rodgers the star quarterback for the Green Bay Packers was also a runner up for the award. He was nominated due to his constant and ever-giving attitude to children and young adults.

Rodgers has worked directly with Midwest Athletes Against Childhood Cancer and Make-A-Wish. Just recently he surpassed giving back $1.5 million of his personal efforts such as events and campaigns. He also has co-created an organization called www.itsaaron.com that works directly with charities and builds support in making a difference nationwide. Literally so presh. Shout out: Aaron, we love you!

Thomas Davis, linebacker for the Carolina Panthers received the Walter Payton Man of the Year award at the ESPY’s this year. And he deserved it.

Photo: Panthers

Davis and his wife founded the Thomas Davis Defending Dreams Foundation, a non-profit that was established to enrich the lives of underprivileged children and families. This organization provides mentoring programs and community outreach programs that include holiday activities and meals for children and women in Charlotte, North Carolina.Not only has Davis found his niche in giving back to the community, the Panthers have proved as well that they are fit for task as well by donating $100,000 to victims of the Charleston shooting victims.

Respect.

Not only do individuals of the National Football League give back, but full on NFL teams participate within the community as well, and contrary to popular belief, not because they’re forced to.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers put on “Bucs Cut for a Cure” where players such as the No.1 draft pick Jameis Winston sat in a chair and let children with cancer shave their heads in an effort to fight pediatric cancer.

Photo: WFLA

The Carolina Panthers put on a “Moms’ Safety” clinic designed to help women who have children who play football. They teach them the safety of proper gear, hydration and how to make it a family and team effort to make sure that safety is a priority on the field.

The Houston Texans hosted the world’s largest kids triathlon that was present by Texas Children’s Hospital in an effort to educate children about staying active and healthy.

The Kansas City Chiefs hosted a Play 60 celebration for local elementary school students which honored children for their commitment to exercise, sports and a healthy lifestyle.The Indianapolis Colts teamed up with country music star Garth Brooks in celebrating the opening of the Child Life Zone at Riley Hospital for Children.

Photo: NY Daily News

Country music and charity? Game on.

These are just a few small examples of how much the NFL does in fact, give back to their surrounding communities. So maybe it’s time we take a page out of their book and do a little help ourselves?!

Not going to lie, I’d love to watch a little guy shave off Tom Brady’s luscious locks just to see the look on his face once they were gone. What? That was only for Tampa Bay? Whatever, a girl can dream can’t she.

– Carly

Best 2015 College Football Uniforms

College football season means College Gameday, tailgates, rivalry games and obviously sexy players in uniforms #swoon. Well, with that being said, it’s time to check out which teams will be looking the sleekest (and hottest) on the field.

Her are the best college uni’s this season!

TCU HORNED FROGS

 

COLORADO BUFFALOES

 

TENNESSEE VOLS

UCLA BRUINS

https://twitter.com/adidasFballUS/status/631827823318077440/photo/1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

SDSU AZTECS

https://twitter.com/GoAztecs/status/628613330349854720/photo/1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

MIAMI HURRICANES

https://twitter.com/adidasFballUS/status/622576793938206720/photo/1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

ASU SUN DEVILS

NOTRE DAME FIGHTING IRISH

BONUS! OREGON DUCKS

Okay, we all know the Oregon Ducks are always rocking the latest and greatest, but speculation around the internet is that at some point during the season they will be suited up in these……

https://twitter.com/GoDucks/status/630827897285021696/photo/1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

I mean WHAT?!?! GLOW IN THE EFFIN DARK!? I guess we’ll find out soon enough!

Until Next Time,

Let the DeflateHate Come in Full Force Because Tom Brady is FREE… For Now

Photo: Patriots Twitter

Let the DeflateHate come in full force because Tom Brady is headed back to the football field. Oh yeah.

Thursday morning it was announced that the judge (who we now all know his name- Richard Berman) has nullified the judging of Tom Brady’s four game suspension to start the 2015 season. Naturally this stirred up everyone and had the internet going on a rampage of hate or happiness.

ESPN Insider, Adam Schefter, said this was an embarrassment to the NFL…

"That's an embarrassment for the NFL." – @AdamSchefter #LIVEonSC

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) September 3, 2015

Cough, cough- They should.

SportsCenter anchor, Steve Levy said he even heard an announcement over the loud speaker in a Boston hospital that “Tom Brady is free.”

HAHA.

Upon hearing the news the Patriots, who were fined $1 million and docked two draft picks as part of the league’s initial punishment, tweeted…

https://twitter.com/Patriots/status/639445470230614018/photo/1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

And of course Gronk tweeted about it…

https://twitter.com/RobGronkowski/status/639447047129694208/photo/1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

And Trump…

Congratulations to Tom Brady on yet another great victory- Tom is my friend and a total winner!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 3, 2015

And Barry Bonds.. Wait- Uh, awkward? Wonder what they have in common…

Congratulations to #TomBrady on today's decision. Best of luck this season, Tom. 🏈

— Barry L Bonds (@BarryBonds) September 3, 2015

Not to mention Dunkin’ Donuts all along the East Coast rejoice…

https://twitter.com/pachecostacey/status/639487034856468480/photo/1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

But, were we too quick to jump to the conclusion that Brady’s suspension would actually pull through? I mean, there is the fact that there really was no hard evidence against Brady that was brought forth in court… Even though we all know he def deflated some balls. What? Who said that?

But don’t worry the drama continues- NFL Commish Roger Goodell announced later Thursday that they will be appealing the judge’s decision.

OMG. How many times is this going to happen? For real though.

Goodell said in a statement Thursday:

“We are grateful to Judge Berman for hearing this matter, but respectfully disagree with today’s decision,” Goodell said in a statement. “We will appeal today’s ruling in order to uphold the collectively bargained responsibility to protect the integrity of the game. The commissioner’s responsibility to secure the competitive fairness of our game is a paramount principle, and the league and our 32 clubs will continue to pursue a path to that end.”

Despite the appeal, Brady will see the field for his Thursday debut against the Steelers only because the league didn’t seek an emergency stay, freeing Brady to play while an appeals court considers the case, which likely will take months.

Photo: ESPN

If I were a Steelers fan man would I be pissssssed…

Or how about if you already drafted for fantasy? Brady moved from 24^th among quarterbacks to 6^th. Thank the heavens our TCD draft is tonight. MUAHAHA

So after seven months of declarations and appeals, is this it? Is Deflategate over? Not quite.

Hell, at this point I wouldn’t be surprised if Obama felt the need to hold a press conference on this matter even though eight police officers have been killed in the past nine days and nobody seems to care about that…

Our world is pretty messed up man.

 

Stay posted and we will fill you in as details continue to come to us on all this Tom Brady drama…

-Courtney

Tulsa Ready to “Shock” in DFW Area

Photo: NY Times

Photo: Tulsa Shock

After starting 8-­1, the Tulsa Shock seemed unsure how the rest of their season would go after losing Skylar Diggins (ACL).

However, they were able to secure a playoff spot for the first time since moving to Oklahoma.

And the playoffs aren’t the only thing they are moving on to.

The WNBA officially approved to move the team to the Dallas/­Fort Worth area for next season, where they will play at the University of Texas at Arlington.

Shock majority owner said,

“The move makes sense because the Dallas area is the largest underserved market for women’s sports and has the nation’s fifth ­biggest media market.”

With all the news on moving, the Shock need to stay focused on the playoffs and hopefully leave the city of Tulsa with a parting gift!

Until Next Time!

Why Johnny Manziel Should Be Cleveland’s Starting QB

Let me start out this article by saying that I am a diehard Cleveland Browns fan and I will be for life.

Just to give you an idea of this fandom I have for my team, here’s a quick story about the photo above. I went out and bought that jersey in Times Square in NYC on my first payday Friday at my first job post grad. I changed in the bathroom and wore it around work all day because it was “casual Friday.”

I grew up cheering for the Brownies and even “attended” many games in the DAWG POUND via my mother’s womb. So you can say we go back pretty FARR 😉

As a team, we have gone through 23 quarterbacks in my 23 years of life.

The most recent? Johnny, Johnny, Johnny.

Here’s my case for why Manziel deserves to be the starter, after just two preseason games:

1. Josh McCowan is downright awful. Sorry, but someone has to say it. Literally terrible. Old. He threw two interceptions in his dismal preseason performance.

2. Johnny Manziel has matured. He has learned from his lessons, and is continually learning.

3. He brings a competitive fire, an ability to scramble and excitement to the fans and the front office.

4. Cleveland had a solid run game last season and adds upon it this season with Isaiah Crowell, Duke Johnson (*great under the radar fantasy RB pick up*) and Terrance West. Johnny is a running QB, and one of the best of ’em.

5. Throughout the preseason, Manziel has gone 17 for 20 for 160 passing yards and a touchdown.

6. Most importantly, the game has appeared to slow down for him. He’s making better decisions on and off the field. He looks more poised in the pocket. And he wants to win.

The issue may be that his temporary long term elbow soreness may be caused from his throwing motion and could result in longer term issues.

“He does change his arm angle a lot, and quarterbacks that tend to drop their elbow on some throws will have a tendency for this to happen,” Pettine said earlier Monday during an interview with ESPN Radio’s Mike & Mike.

The team believes that rest and maintenance can take care of the issue and the Browns expect Johnny Manziel to play on Saturday in the third preseason game in Tampa.

Now it’s time for the Browns to make the right decision and start their first round draft pick, now and for the rest of the season. It’s what the people want.

And that’s not just me saying it! 😉

-Morgan