Sometimes it feels like I can't depend on anyone but myself. I hate feeling this way, but sometimes, it's the only way I know to feel. Fuck everything else. It's time to take care of me. I won't let me down.
the Rare Poet
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Super Sundays: An NFL Obsession
Okay. I'm sure I've stated quite a few times that I'm an avid sports fan. Football is my favorite sport, which is probably why Sundays usually find my postings few and far between. Since we've entered the portion of the NFL season where it's time for teams to put up or shut up, I'm dedicating my Sundays to picking my favorites and giving my take on the season so far.
Let me just say that I am without a doubt, a Minnesota Vikings fan. But with the three ring circus that has become my favorite team, I can honestly say that I have little hope for a miraculous turnaround. If we can end up 8-8 this season, as a fan I'll take it. (A lot better than the 5-11 record they seem to be aiming for)
So here are my predictions for this week, with a few notes on how I arrived at that conclusion.
Enjoy the games.
the Rare Poet
(Disclaimer: In the case that you are simple enough to go to a gambling location and place bets based on these picks, know that I may be one of the unluckiest people in the world. It is ill advised, and I am in no way responsible if you lose. I am not an expert, at anything. Except being me. Might I suggest that you simply mail ME your money...lmao)
NFL Week 11 Predictions
This should be an interesting week. The games that everyone will be talking about are the Giants vs Eagles matchup in the NFC, and the Patriots vs Colts in the AFC. Both of these games have huge playoff implications and could crown two teams as Super Bowl front runners. With the dynamic play of Hakeem Nicks, Michael Vick, Tom Brady, and Peyton Manning, the highlight reels should key in on both contests.
AFC
Oakland (5-4) at Pittsburgh (6-3) 13-24
For weeks I've been telling friends that the Steelers are pretenders. I still hold on to that belief. But even more so are the Oakland Raiders. They are a team that seems put together well only on paper. Too many close calls. Too many question marks. But the bottom line is, when Darren McFadden plays poorly, the Raiders lose. Enter the Pittsburgh defense that just gave up it's worst performance to date against the Patriots a week ago. Not going to happen again.
Cleveland (3-6) at Jacksonville (5-4) 20-14
I like the Browns defense. That said, I think their offensive playbook should be renamed Peyton Hillis. He's a monster in between the tackles, and today going up against a defense that should thank their lucky stars that wacky finishes keep getting their team undeserved victories. If Cleveland can contain MJD (Maurice Jones-Drew for those out of the football loop), then this should equal a win for a 3-6 Browns team that plays much better than their record.
Houston (4-5) at NY Jets (7-2) 21-10
Most people who see this score will think I'm crazy. And granted the Texans seem to be doing exactly what they do best: falling apart in the middle of the season. But to me the Jets are the most unimpressive 7-2 team in the NFL. And without two spectacular OT finishes, in games that they trailed in the 4th quarter, this same Jets team would be 5-4. But we can live in the what ifs, so unless the Jets can find a way to put together a WHOLE game of good football, an explosive offense like the Texans, led by Matt Shaub and Andre Johnson, will make them suffer for it.
Indianapolis (6-3) at New England (7-2) 35-21
This is going to be a shootout. We've heard all the talk about the starting QBs. We know that both teams seem to be on pace for deep post-season runs. We know that this has become a rivalry as big as in the minds of coaches, fans, and players as are the respective Indy vs Hou and NE vs Jets rivalries are. And we know that for the most part, New England seems to have the Colts figured out, as Tom Brady has a 7-4 head to head advantage over his often compared counterpart. But stemming back to the Bill Belichick's rare bonehead coaching decision to go for it on 4th and 2 from his team's 28 yard line, this matchup has taking on new life for Peyton Manning and company. Too many holes in that young Patriots defense will give the elder Manning a big day.
NFC
Green Bay (6-3) at Minnesota (3-6) 21-28
I know what you're thinking. He picked his team to win. Well yes, I did, but not because I'm a fan. The truth of the matter is that I watched the last game. It was a game that even with the 3 Brett Favre interceptions, and all the disputed touchdowns, Minnesota was in position to win that game. This one takes place in the dome, where the Vikings have managed their only 3 wins of the season. The return of Sidney Rice, while in a limited capacity, makes me give the Purple and Gold the advantage.
Seattle (5-4) at New Orleans (6-3) 7-17
This is a game that nobody seems to realize is even going on. Most people aren't aware that the Seahawks are in first place in a division that, in my opinion, should for the first time ever be forced to give up its playoff spot to a more deserving team from a different division. Most people don't even remember that the Saints won the Super Bowl last season, and if they do, they immediately write them off, not realizing that they have the same record as the Ravens, Steelers, Colts, Giants, Eagles, and Packers. And they're just a win behind the Jets, Patriots, Bears, and Falcons. The teams I just mentioned are the supposed NFL elite. The Saints, who get Reggie Bush back this week from injury, are right there with them. At least in wins and losses. But then again, so are the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
NY Giants (6-3) at Philadelphia (6-3) 24-17
And cue the head scratching. Yes, I realize that Michael Vick may be the most explosive player in football right now. And yes, I realize that the Giants just got there asses kicked by a Cowboys team so lowly that they lost to the Vikings this season (and may very well lose to Detroit today). But I'm standing by not only my pick, but my assertion that Philly only scores two TDs tonight. This Giants defense gets after the QB like another team that had. (Picture the Tyree ball-on-the-top-of-the-helmet catch, and the Patriots almost-perfect season) I just don't believe Vick is going to significantly affect a defense with such a dominating front four, plus a secondary that moved from last year's laughing stock to helping create the league's top ranked defense. Vick will put the ball in the endzone, but turnovers help the Giants win this one.
Other Predictions
Redskins (4-5) 14
Titans (5-4) 10
Ravens (6-3) 35
Panthers (1-8) 10
Cardinals (3-6) 14
Chiefs (5-4) 27
Lions (2-7) 20
Cowboys (2-7) 14
Bills (1-8) 17
Bengals (2-7) 24
Bucs (6-3) 13
49ers (3-6) 7
Falcons (7-2) 21
Rams (4-5) 10
Broncos (3-6) 28
Chargers (4-5) 21
Let me just say that I am without a doubt, a Minnesota Vikings fan. But with the three ring circus that has become my favorite team, I can honestly say that I have little hope for a miraculous turnaround. If we can end up 8-8 this season, as a fan I'll take it. (A lot better than the 5-11 record they seem to be aiming for)
So here are my predictions for this week, with a few notes on how I arrived at that conclusion.
Enjoy the games.
the Rare Poet
(Disclaimer: In the case that you are simple enough to go to a gambling location and place bets based on these picks, know that I may be one of the unluckiest people in the world. It is ill advised, and I am in no way responsible if you lose. I am not an expert, at anything. Except being me. Might I suggest that you simply mail ME your money...lmao)
NFL Week 11 Predictions
This should be an interesting week. The games that everyone will be talking about are the Giants vs Eagles matchup in the NFC, and the Patriots vs Colts in the AFC. Both of these games have huge playoff implications and could crown two teams as Super Bowl front runners. With the dynamic play of Hakeem Nicks, Michael Vick, Tom Brady, and Peyton Manning, the highlight reels should key in on both contests.
AFC
Oakland (5-4) at Pittsburgh (6-3) 13-24
For weeks I've been telling friends that the Steelers are pretenders. I still hold on to that belief. But even more so are the Oakland Raiders. They are a team that seems put together well only on paper. Too many close calls. Too many question marks. But the bottom line is, when Darren McFadden plays poorly, the Raiders lose. Enter the Pittsburgh defense that just gave up it's worst performance to date against the Patriots a week ago. Not going to happen again.
Cleveland (3-6) at Jacksonville (5-4) 20-14
I like the Browns defense. That said, I think their offensive playbook should be renamed Peyton Hillis. He's a monster in between the tackles, and today going up against a defense that should thank their lucky stars that wacky finishes keep getting their team undeserved victories. If Cleveland can contain MJD (Maurice Jones-Drew for those out of the football loop), then this should equal a win for a 3-6 Browns team that plays much better than their record.
Houston (4-5) at NY Jets (7-2) 21-10
Most people who see this score will think I'm crazy. And granted the Texans seem to be doing exactly what they do best: falling apart in the middle of the season. But to me the Jets are the most unimpressive 7-2 team in the NFL. And without two spectacular OT finishes, in games that they trailed in the 4th quarter, this same Jets team would be 5-4. But we can live in the what ifs, so unless the Jets can find a way to put together a WHOLE game of good football, an explosive offense like the Texans, led by Matt Shaub and Andre Johnson, will make them suffer for it.
Indianapolis (6-3) at New England (7-2) 35-21
This is going to be a shootout. We've heard all the talk about the starting QBs. We know that both teams seem to be on pace for deep post-season runs. We know that this has become a rivalry as big as in the minds of coaches, fans, and players as are the respective Indy vs Hou and NE vs Jets rivalries are. And we know that for the most part, New England seems to have the Colts figured out, as Tom Brady has a 7-4 head to head advantage over his often compared counterpart. But stemming back to the Bill Belichick's rare bonehead coaching decision to go for it on 4th and 2 from his team's 28 yard line, this matchup has taking on new life for Peyton Manning and company. Too many holes in that young Patriots defense will give the elder Manning a big day.
NFC
Green Bay (6-3) at Minnesota (3-6) 21-28
I know what you're thinking. He picked his team to win. Well yes, I did, but not because I'm a fan. The truth of the matter is that I watched the last game. It was a game that even with the 3 Brett Favre interceptions, and all the disputed touchdowns, Minnesota was in position to win that game. This one takes place in the dome, where the Vikings have managed their only 3 wins of the season. The return of Sidney Rice, while in a limited capacity, makes me give the Purple and Gold the advantage.
Seattle (5-4) at New Orleans (6-3) 7-17
This is a game that nobody seems to realize is even going on. Most people aren't aware that the Seahawks are in first place in a division that, in my opinion, should for the first time ever be forced to give up its playoff spot to a more deserving team from a different division. Most people don't even remember that the Saints won the Super Bowl last season, and if they do, they immediately write them off, not realizing that they have the same record as the Ravens, Steelers, Colts, Giants, Eagles, and Packers. And they're just a win behind the Jets, Patriots, Bears, and Falcons. The teams I just mentioned are the supposed NFL elite. The Saints, who get Reggie Bush back this week from injury, are right there with them. At least in wins and losses. But then again, so are the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
NY Giants (6-3) at Philadelphia (6-3) 24-17
And cue the head scratching. Yes, I realize that Michael Vick may be the most explosive player in football right now. And yes, I realize that the Giants just got there asses kicked by a Cowboys team so lowly that they lost to the Vikings this season (and may very well lose to Detroit today). But I'm standing by not only my pick, but my assertion that Philly only scores two TDs tonight. This Giants defense gets after the QB like another team that had. (Picture the Tyree ball-on-the-top-of-the-helmet catch, and the Patriots almost-perfect season) I just don't believe Vick is going to significantly affect a defense with such a dominating front four, plus a secondary that moved from last year's laughing stock to helping create the league's top ranked defense. Vick will put the ball in the endzone, but turnovers help the Giants win this one.
Other Predictions
Redskins (4-5) 14
Titans (5-4) 10
Ravens (6-3) 35
Panthers (1-8) 10
Cardinals (3-6) 14
Chiefs (5-4) 27
Lions (2-7) 20
Cowboys (2-7) 14
Bills (1-8) 17
Bengals (2-7) 24
Bucs (6-3) 13
49ers (3-6) 7
Falcons (7-2) 21
Rams (4-5) 10
Broncos (3-6) 28
Chargers (4-5) 21
Say What? (Awesome RePost #3)
I was cruising through some of my favorite blogs to check out when I came across this photo posted by Morgan Farruya (who allow me to say constantly drips with awesomeness through amazing pics and posts). All I can say is that it was a "shaking my damn head" moment. A part of me was happy that Rihanna expresses herself fully and at all times, but the parent in me makes me wonder if I'd want my child to have to ask their favorite singer what "Fuck You" means
Of course, in these days, I imagine most kids have heard worse.
the Rare Poet
(check out Morgan's awesome blog here: MORGARRUYA)
Of course, in these days, I imagine most kids have heard worse.
the Rare Poet
(check out Morgan's awesome blog here: MORGARRUYA)
Saturday, November 20, 2010
And Exactly Where Do You Think You're Sticking That Metal Detector?
Thanksgiving Day is upon us. And for many people in the United States, and throughout the world, that means it's off to the airport soon. Thanks to a supposedly improving economy, there will be an expected surge in Thanksgiving travel, according to a forecast released Tuesday.
So exactly what are these new security measures you ask?
Well, by now, I'm sure you've heard mention of the full body scanners currently in place at over four dozen airports throughout the country. The media has done several stories on the fears of radiation exposure and the outrage over invasive "virtual strip-search" style images that the machine displays. (See below)
Hoping that these annoying machines will go away with the public outcry? Think again. In June, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) had spent well over $80 million for about 500 machines, including 133 now at airports, with plans to install about 1,000 by the end of 2011. Which means the scanners are here to stay. But what most passengers don't realize, is that you can always refuse.
Which brings up the pat-down.
Just this month, TSA's new screening procedures began including a full-body pat-down, performed by administration officials of the passenger's own gender, and only if the passenger refused exposure to the full body scan or set off the alarm of a security device, such as scanner or metal detector, while passing through. Critics charge that the new procedure is excessively invasive, as the pat-down touched the genital areas. Or according to ACLU legislative counsel, passengers must now choose between "a virtual strip search and a grope".
Of course you could refuse both. But then you become this guy:
Meet John Tyner, also known as Mr. "If You Touch My Junk, I’m Going to Have You Arrested". Tyner was simultaneously thrown out of San Diego International Airport on Saturday morning for refusing to submit to a security check and threatened with a lawsuit and a $10,000 fine if he left without submission. That's because once passengers present their identification and their ticket, they have to finish going through security. If the passenger changes their mind and wants to leave because they don’t want the body pat-down, they’re subject to a hefty fine. TSA officials claim that this is in place because it doesn’t want terrorists probing the security system. Of course Tyner has since reached the hallowed halls of YouTube fame, by recording the entire ordeal with his cell phone. There are multiple videos, but I felt the best way for those interested to get the full story is from Mr. Tyner himself.
http://johnnyedge.blogspot.com/2010/11/these-events-took-place-roughly-between.html
So, basically if you avoid the full body scanner, you're subjected to the pat-down. If you refuse the pat-down, you're at risk of being sued by the TSA. Sounds lovely. (Insert dripping sarcasm here)
Remember the good old days of standard airport security? Well guess what, those days are gone. The TSA measures may seem invasive, extreme, and any other adjective you can think of to let people know that you don't like it, but the bottom line is that it's for safety. We live in a world now where the threats have changed. Smarter criminals require evolving measures in order to assure maximum protection. Maybe refusing these measures is the last thing we need right now.
Personally, I've never been on a plane. But I'd feel safer knowing that there are such in-depth security measures in place than the same old ones that have been bested for years. In the next few days, millions of Americans will be traveling to see loved ones in order to share in a celebrated tradition of giving thanks for the things we appreciate the most. If being irritated by some revealing virtual images or patted down by a security agent ensures safe delivery of those who we give thanks for, then I'm all for it. Remember everything is a progression. Eventually the measures will get better and less invasive. Until then, we have this:
I guess if you're still outraged, you could participate in an online campaign calling for a National Opt-Out Day on Nov. 24, the day before Thanksgiving and one of the busiest travel days. Personally, as I think of all the travelers attempting to get to Grandma's sweet potato pie, I think their campaign will fail. If you're buying a plan ticket this holiday season, then you're subject to the rules and regulations of that binding contract. Point blank. If you don't like the security measures, don't fly. You can always take the bus.
Enjoy your holiday travel, and above all else, be safe.
the Rare Poet
CNN reported this morning that both the motorist group AAA and IHS Global Insight project more than 42 million people will be traveling at least 50 miles from home for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. This is an increase of more than 11% from last year's 38 million people, who traveled during the 5-day holiday period. While I don't see the immediate benefits of this "improving" economy, I'm sure that the 1.5 million people who are expected to fly are fretting about it. Many recent reports have come about the ill-received new security measures at several major airports. You've seen the pictures:
I've always wondered why none of these people look happy. Ever. It's the same in every airport photo you see. The people boarding appear to be nervous, angry, on edge, etc. And now with increased security measures, it is documented that boarding a flight may take even LONGER.
So exactly what are these new security measures you ask?
Well, by now, I'm sure you've heard mention of the full body scanners currently in place at over four dozen airports throughout the country. The media has done several stories on the fears of radiation exposure and the outrage over invasive "virtual strip-search" style images that the machine displays. (See below)
(To me, this looks like an elevator with no door. Not quite as imposing as I expected it to be)
(Okay, the detail of these images is a little disturbing. Plus I'm not even going to ask if that's
a tail coming from between the legs. Lol)
Hoping that these annoying machines will go away with the public outcry? Think again. In June, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) had spent well over $80 million for about 500 machines, including 133 now at airports, with plans to install about 1,000 by the end of 2011. Which means the scanners are here to stay. But what most passengers don't realize, is that you can always refuse.
Which brings up the pat-down.
Just this month, TSA's new screening procedures began including a full-body pat-down, performed by administration officials of the passenger's own gender, and only if the passenger refused exposure to the full body scan or set off the alarm of a security device, such as scanner or metal detector, while passing through. Critics charge that the new procedure is excessively invasive, as the pat-down touched the genital areas. Or according to ACLU legislative counsel, passengers must now choose between "a virtual strip search and a grope".
Of course you could refuse both. But then you become this guy:
Meet John Tyner, also known as Mr. "If You Touch My Junk, I’m Going to Have You Arrested". Tyner was simultaneously thrown out of San Diego International Airport on Saturday morning for refusing to submit to a security check and threatened with a lawsuit and a $10,000 fine if he left without submission. That's because once passengers present their identification and their ticket, they have to finish going through security. If the passenger changes their mind and wants to leave because they don’t want the body pat-down, they’re subject to a hefty fine. TSA officials claim that this is in place because it doesn’t want terrorists probing the security system. Of course Tyner has since reached the hallowed halls of YouTube fame, by recording the entire ordeal with his cell phone. There are multiple videos, but I felt the best way for those interested to get the full story is from Mr. Tyner himself.
http://johnnyedge.blogspot.com/2010/11/these-events-took-place-roughly-between.html
So, basically if you avoid the full body scanner, you're subjected to the pat-down. If you refuse the pat-down, you're at risk of being sued by the TSA. Sounds lovely. (Insert dripping sarcasm here)
Remember the good old days of standard airport security? Well guess what, those days are gone. The TSA measures may seem invasive, extreme, and any other adjective you can think of to let people know that you don't like it, but the bottom line is that it's for safety. We live in a world now where the threats have changed. Smarter criminals require evolving measures in order to assure maximum protection. Maybe refusing these measures is the last thing we need right now.
Personally, I've never been on a plane. But I'd feel safer knowing that there are such in-depth security measures in place than the same old ones that have been bested for years. In the next few days, millions of Americans will be traveling to see loved ones in order to share in a celebrated tradition of giving thanks for the things we appreciate the most. If being irritated by some revealing virtual images or patted down by a security agent ensures safe delivery of those who we give thanks for, then I'm all for it. Remember everything is a progression. Eventually the measures will get better and less invasive. Until then, we have this:
I guess if you're still outraged, you could participate in an online campaign calling for a National Opt-Out Day on Nov. 24, the day before Thanksgiving and one of the busiest travel days. Personally, as I think of all the travelers attempting to get to Grandma's sweet potato pie, I think their campaign will fail. If you're buying a plan ticket this holiday season, then you're subject to the rules and regulations of that binding contract. Point blank. If you don't like the security measures, don't fly. You can always take the bus.
Enjoy your holiday travel, and above all else, be safe.
the Rare Poet
Feel Good Music, Nov. 20, 2010
I'm going to be rocking this one all day long!! New playlist next week. Feel good today, and enjoy the music.
the Rare Poet
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