On Saturday July 4th, was the four year anniversary of when the Golden State Warriors signed superstar Kevin Durant to a 2 Year-$54 million dollar contract. In order to afford Durant, the Warriors had to trade Andrew Bogut and Harrison Barnes. The Warriors did this after blowing a 3-1 lead in the Finals to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Kevin Durant was called a snake because he left a good Thunder team and best friend Russell Westbrook to form a super team.
I hope everyone had a safe and happy 4th of July. I hope nobody ended up like Tampa Bay Buccaneers players Jason Pierre Paul and CJ Wilson who lost multiple fingers in separate accidents related to fireworks.
However, even though a lot of people started to hate the Warriors and Durant for his decision it paid off. Durant was able to further cement his legacy and win two NBA Championships and two Finals MVP.
When Durant joined, the Warriors were considered one of the most dominant teams since LeBron’s Heat and Jordan’s Bulls.
The show started out with Michael Cole interviewing Matt Riddle. King Corbin came out to the ring with a promo against Riddle. Corbin then sets up a match between Riddle and John Morrison. Corbin joined Cole and Corey Graves at commentary for this match. John Morrison is joined by his tag team partner The Miz at ringside. Riddle and Morrison both showed off strong strikes and strong kicks and high knees. The Miz distracted the ref as Morrison rakes the eyes of Riddle. However, Morrison was not able to take advantage. Before commercial break, Riddle flips his flip flop at commentary angering Corbin. Riddle hits Morrison with the Final Flash Knee Strike that sends Morrison’s teeth flying. Miz and Corbin try to distract Riddle but Riddle rolled up Morrison for the win. Then AJ styles attacked Matt Riddle from behind while Drew Gulak came to attack Styles and help Riddle.
Result: Matt Riddle defeats John Morrison via pinfall.
Grade: B+
Drew Gulak vs. AJ Styles for the Intercontinental Championship
Drew Gulak’s partner Daniel Bryan was on commentary via a Zoom call. Styles immediately began going after the legs to set up for the calf crusher. Gulak later on took advantage of the match. Styles left the ring in frustration of not being able to put Gulak away, and to recuperate and catch his breath. Gulak then hit the champion with a baseball slide. Styles has Gulak stunned and could have easily ended the match. However, Styles wanted to make a statement and hit Gulak with another Phenomenal Forearm for the victory.
Result: AJ Styles defeats Drew Gulak via pinfall to retain the Intercontinental Championship
Grade: C
Alexa Bliss vs. Bayley
Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross’s rivalry with Bayley and Sasha Banks have been one of Smackdown’s best feuds. Bliss took control of the match early on and went right after Bayley. Bayley then took control and out muscled Bliss. Bliss used a strong right hand to temporarily create some separation. Sasha Banks interfered with the match as the ref was distracted dealing with Cross. Bayley then was able to pick up the win even though Cross was able to have the champs avoiding a fight.
Result: Bayley defeats Alexa Bliss via disqualification
Grade: C-
Kofi Kingston vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
The rivalry between The New Day and Cesaro and Nakamura continues as Kofi and Shinsuke square off in singles competition. Big E and Cesaro were at ringside cheering on their partners. Right off the bell, Kofi attacked Shinsuke. Cesaro and Big E were heavily involved as both were ejected making sure the better wrestler won with no distractions. After the commercial break, Nakamura took control of the match. Kingston whiffed on a Trouble for Paradise but was able to hit the SOS for a two count. Nakamura recovered from the SOS and a double stomp to hit Kingston with the Kinshasa for the victory.
Result: Shinsuke Nakamura defeats Kofi Kingston via pinfall
Grade: B+
This episode of Smackdown was above average. There was no match in my opinion that stole the show and was exciting to watch. However, the promos that took place were well booked and added to rivalries and storylines. With that being said, I would give this episode of Smackdown a B-.
On June 26th, the NHL held their annual draft lottery. However, the results this year were a lot different than usual. Due to the coronavirus ending the season early, Commissioner Gary Bettman decided to add 24 to the playoffs. Meaning the seven teams that did not qualify, their season would end. The Detroit Red Wings were the worst team in hockey this year and their season was a joke. The Red Wings had the best odds at the #1 pick to take winger Alexis Lafreniere. However, the results of the lottery were much different than expected.
#1 Pick: TBD
The number one pick is going to a team who made the playoffs and lost in the first round. This is not fair because a team that made the playoffs would have a playoff berth and the best projected player. Imagine if Toronto or Edmonton gets that pick. That would be an offense of Auston Matthews, John Tavares, and Lafreniere or Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Lafreniere. If I was a Red Wings fan I would be extremely annoyed even though as a Penguins and hockey fan I am still annoyed. We now have to wait till after the first round of the playoffs to see who gets the #1 pick.
#2 Pick: Los Angeles Kings
The Kings moved up two spots going from projected 4th overall to getting the second pick.
#3 Pick: Ottawa Senators (via San Jose Sharks)
This Senators pick remained as projected. The Senators got this pick as part of the Erik Karlsson trade.
#4 Pick: Detroit Red Wings
The Red Wings were projected the 1st pick and ended up with the 4th pick.
#5 Pick: Ottawa Senators
The Ottawa Senators got another pick in the Top 5. However, this pick was supposed to be 2nd overall and they dropped three spots.
#6: Anaheim Ducks
The Anaheim Ducks were awarded the 6th pick. They moved up one spot and essentially switched spots with the New Jersey Devils.
#7 Pick: New Jersey Devils
The New Jersey Devils got the 7th pick in the draft. They went down one spot.
#8 Pick Buffalo Sabres
The Buffalo Sabres got the 8th pick in the draft. They went down one spot in the draft lottery.
Picks #9-#15: TBD
These picks are TBD and the public will not know until after the first round of playoffs.
Before the match, MJF cut an amazing promo, as he cements himself as AEW’s best heel. MJF even mentioned Jungle Boy’s late father actor Luke Perry. The Jurassic Express immediately stormed down to the ring. Jungle Boy was getting destroyed early on in the match. Once Luchasaurus came in the match, it was a whole other ballgame. Luchasaurus showed off his strong strikes on Wardlow and his incredible agility for his size. There were a lot of amazing strikes and incredible moves both on the ground and in the air from both teams. This rivalry continued when all four were down in the ring and both sides popped back up to the ring at both times. MJF even tried using his dirty heel tactics with a rake to the eye of Luchasaurus and a low blow but both did not result in a win. Marko Stunt even tried getting involved but it backfired for him and his team. Luchasaurus was able to hit a few moves on Wardlow for the victory after Jungle Boy took out MJF with a baseball slide.
Result: Jurassic Express defeated MJF and Wardlow via pinfall.
Grade: A+
Hikaru Shida vs. Penelope Ford (Women’s Championship)
Another rivalry continued, as Hikaru Shida defended her title against Penelope Ford. Before the match, Kip Sabian shoved Shida and put his hands on referee Aubrey Edwards thus getting himself ejected from ringside. He then proceeded to take Shida’s kendo stick with him back to the locker room. Penelope Ford provided some extraordinary moves due to her gymnastics background. Shida also added some strong and powerful strikes. Penelope Ford countered and kicked out of Shida’s Falcon Arrow which amazed the crowd and I when both occurred. Ford left the ring and wanted to hit Shida with her own title. Aubrey Edwards came to ringside to try and warn Ford she would be disqualified. This then provided Sabian to come back with the kendo stick in attempt to hit Shida. This backfired as Shida nailed Sabian. Shida was then able to nail Ford with a strong kick for the win.
Result: Hikaru Shida defeated Penelope Ford via pinfall to retain her AEW Women’s Championship
Grade: B+
Cody vs. Jake Hager (TNT Championship)
Cody looked to defend his title against the infamous Jake Hager with Arn Anderson at ringside. However, Hager also had his wife Catalina at ringside. Hager left the ring to go after Arn Anderson. Cody then went off the top rope and took down Hager. However, Hager was successful the second time and choked Anderson to the ground. Later on in the match, Catalina stepped on Cody with her heels straight to the back of the champion. Hager and “The American Nightmare” traded submissions with Hager’s ankle lock and Cody’s figure four. Hager again locked in the ankle lock. Cody was able to get to the ropes to force a break. The ref was dealing with Arn Anderson standing on the ring apron. Hager’s wife again gets involved and slaps Cody across the face. Dustin Rhodes proceeds to storm down the ring and hit Hager thus setting up a Cross Rhodes attempt that was countered. Hager locks in an arm triangle however, Cody reverses for the three count retaining his championship. However, Hager thought Cody tapped out and was visibly angry when he found out he lost. Then Hager punched and knocked out the ref.
Result: Cody defeated Jake Hager to retain his TNT Championship via pinfall
Grade: A-
Private Party vs. Santana and Ortiz
Before the participants of the match came out, Orange Cassidy decided to join Le Champion Chris Jericho and the rest of the commentary team for no reason. My guess is to get in the head of Jericho before their match next week. Cassidy just sat in a chair and watched the match in the beginning. Jericho has been on commentary the whole night and did a good job for the most part. Matt Hardy was at ringside to aid the Private Party. Santana gave Isiah Kassidy a free shot to begin the match. Kassidy swung and Santana just laughed before running after him. With the Private Party’s speed and agility they controlled the early stages of the match. They would do a move and then go for a quick pinfall which would result in a one or quick two count. About a minute before the first commercial break Santana and Ortiz took control of the match. We saw some great moves such as The Twister over the top rope and a cannonball. With the distraction from Matt Hardy, Marq Quen got the roll up and almost secured the victory. Private Party was able to get the win after multiple double team exchanges.
Result: Private Party defeat Santana and Ortiz via pinfall.
Grade: B-
Kenny Omega and Adam Page vs. Best Friends (Tag Team Championships)
Kenny Omega and Adam Page looked to defend their titles against Best Friends. Hilariously, Trent’s mom drove Trent and Chuck Taylor to the arena. Omega and Chuck Taylor started the match for both teams in the main event. Trent and Page traded blows before Trent took advantage. Best Friends are on a seven match win streak while Omega and Page are undefeated as a team in 2020. FTR made an appearance with lawn chairs and a cooler near commentary to watch the match. Both teams have showed off with exciting moves. Best Friends took out Omega to focus on Page two-on-one. Page fought the both of them long enough for Omega to come back. Kenny Omega saved the match after a Strong Zero. Hangman Adam Page was eventually able to pick up the win. FTR came to the ring after the match to offer the champions some beer to celebrate. Then Omega poured out most of the beer upsetting FTR causing tension that only escalated once the Young Bucks came out.
Results: Kenny Omega & Hangman Page defeat Best Friends via pinfall to retain their Tag Team Championships.
Grade: A-
Night one of Fighter Fest was very good and well booked. I am looking forward to seeing what Night two being next week. If I had to give this show a grade I would give it an A-.
The University of North Carolina is very elite and ilustrious univeristy that is known for their academics and basketball program. The University has experienced many elite players and stars in professional basketball as well as college. UNC has 6 National Championships which is very impressive.
PG: Phil Ford: Ford was a great player for the Tar Heels as he played for them from 1975 to 1978. He was a 3-time 1st Team All-American as well as All-ACC. Ford averaged 18.6 PPG, 6.1 APG, from 52.7% from the floor. As a freshman he helped UNC win the National Championship. In the NBA he was drafted second overall in 1978 and had a few good seasons in the NBA.
SG: Michael Jordan: Michael Jordan is a top-2 player of all-time and one of the best college players of all time. In his 3 years at UNC he averaged 17.7 PPG. Jordan has 6 NBA Championships and recently had a documentary called “The Last Dance” that I highly reccomend watching.
SF: Lennie Rosenbluth: Lennie played for the Tar Heels from 1954-1957. He averaged 26.9 PPG and 10.4 RPG. He has the highest PPG in a collegiate career in school history. In 1957 he carried the Tar Heels to their first National Championship.
PF: Antawn Jamison: Antwan Jamison had a career average of 19.0 PPG and 9.9 RPG. He won National Player of the Year in 1998. He played from 1995-1998.
C: Tyler Hansbrough: Debatably, one of the best Tar Heels of all time, Hansbrough was dominant in college. He was an All-American all four years, National and ACC Player of the Year, and a National Title. He played from 2005-2009.
6th: Charles Scott: Scott was the first African-American to play for this elite program’s varsity team. He played from 1967-1970. He averaged 22.1 PPG.
7th: Billy Cunningham: Billy played from 1962-1965. In his career he averaged 24.8 PPG, and 15.4 PPG. Cunningham was Dean Smith’s first true star. Unfortunately, he was never able to play in a National Championship or ACC Title Game. He has a school average for most rebounds per game.
8th: Larry Miller: Miller played from 1965-1968. He averaged 21.8 PPG, and 9.2 RPG. Miller won ACC Player of the year in 1967 and 1968. He won a National Championship against rivals Duke after scoring 32 points.
9th: James Worthy: Worthy played for the Tar Heels from 1979-1982. He had career averages of 14.5 PPG, and 6.4 RPG. Worthy might have made the starting lineup if he hever broke his ankle his freshman year.
10th: Sam Perkins: Perkins played from 1980-1984. He averaged 15.9 PPG, 8.8 RPG, and almost 2 blocks per game. He was never the best player on his team as he played with James Worthy for two years and then Michael Jordan. He was a three-time 1st All-American and All-ACC.
11th: Vince Carter: Vince Carter played from the 1995-1996 season to the 1997-1998 season. In his time there he averaged 12.3 PPG. Carter has many accolades and is one of the best dunkers of all-time. He will eventually be in the Hall of Fame as he just announced his retirement from the NBA. Carter was the last active player that was drafted in the 90’s era.
12th: Ty Lawson: In Ty Lawson’s three year career he averaged 13.1 PPG. He played from the 2007-2007 season to the 2008-2009 season. In his last year Lawson won the Bob Cousy Award, Wooden Award Finalist as well as other accolades.
Coach: Roy Williams: As tough as it was to leave Dean Smith out he still deserves to be recognized. Smith has 2 National Championship rings and is second all-time in school history in wins. But I believe Roy Williams is the best coach. Williams has the most wins in school history and more national championship rings than Smith. Williams has won 3 out of the 6 Championships that UNC has won.
UNC is one of the most consistent and dominant schools of all-time when it comes to college basketball. They are surrounded by highly talented 4 and 5-star recruits. Most of the players also later on to succeed in the NBA.
After a promo of Big Show calling out Randy Orton, Angel Garza and Andrade surrounded the Big Show. Ric Flair told them to attack the World’s Largest Athlete. The Viking Raiders stormed down to the ring to help Show. The terrible storyline of Andrade and Garza arguing while being saved by Zelina Vega continued. Andrade and Garza were able to get back and focus as they were able to successfully pick up the win.
Result: Andrade and Angel Garza defeat the Viking Raiders via pinfall.
Grade: B-
24/7 Champion Akira Tozawa vs. R-Truth
Akira Tozawa was surrounded by his ninjas before the match. Tozawa and R-Truth have been trading the title with brief stints of Rob Gronkowski holding the title. The match was very short. R-Truth picked up the win and then quickly escaped the ninjas and ran straight to the locker room. R-Truth is more of an entertainer now than a wrestler as his sole purpose is to add comedic purposes. I am fine with the 24/7 championship having funny moments/segments and being defended constantly. However, I want the matches to be longer and more action packed instead of lasting a few minutes.
Result: R-Truth defeated Akira Tozawa to win the 24/7 Championship via pinfall.
Grade: F
Seth Rollins and Murphy vs. Aleister Black and Humberto Carrillo
Black and Carillo have had enough of the Monday Night Messiah’s antics of harassing and embarrassing Rey Mysterio. Black called Rollins evil which thus set up this tag match. This feud has been going on for weeks now and it is starting to heat up. Rollins underestimated the two but the chemistry and power of Rollins and Murphy was no match for the challengers. Carillo was hit with the Stomp for the three count. Black saved Carillo from an attack but Rollins hit Carrillo with a Stomp on the steel steps.
Result: Seth Rollins and Murphy defeat Aleister Black and Humberto Carrillo via pinfall.
Grade: A
Ruby Riott vs. Peyton Royce
The IIconics made fun of Ruby Riott for trying to reunite herself with Liv Morgan. Riot challenged Billie Kay or Peyton Royce to fight her. Lana told Riott backstage to start listening to Natalya more. Kay used the 2-on-1 advantage wisely to help Royce pick up the victory within minutes. It is a shame Riott’s talents are being wasted and maybe she should team up with Natalya or Liv Morgan so she is part of some sort of angle.
Result: Peyton Royce defeats Billie Kay via pinfall.
Grade: D+
Big Show vs. Andrade and Angel Garza
Andrade and Angel Garza ended up competing twice tonight on Raw. It was nice to see the Big Show back in action especially since he is in a feud with Randy Orton but 2-0n-1 handicap matches just are not fair or entertaining. The duo were scared to fight Big Show in the beginning as they were thrown like rag dolls. The Most Beautiful Man was able to attack Show’s left leg which is what one should always do when wrestling a giant like the Big Show, until El Idolo forced his way into the match. Garza walked out as Big Show choke slammed Andrade for the victory. This feud or storyline between Garza and Andrade is getting boring and repetitive and the WWE Universe wants this to either progress or end.
Result: Big Show defeats Angel Garza and Andrade via pinfall.
Grade: D
Apollo Crews vs. MVP
Backstage, Bobby Lashley asked Montel Vontavious Porter why he was still trying to recruit Apollo Crews. MVP said he was done playing games and being Mr. Nice Guy and wanted to teach the United States Champion a lesson. MVP continued to rant about respect until Crews came out saying he did not want a manager. MVP warned Crews saying you do not want me as an enemy. Bobby Lashley was at ringside to make sure MVP gets the win.
Result: MVP defeats Apollo Crews via pinfall.
Grade: B
Bobby Lashley vs. Ricochet
After the MVP and Crews match, Crews attacked MVP before being put in a Full Nelson by Bobby Lashley. Ricochet and Cedric Alexander came to the aid of Crews. This led to a match between the One and Only and the All-Mighty. Lashley dominated and controlled most of the match until Ricochet showed signs of life after escaping the full nelson. Ricochet reached a near fall after hitting Lashley with a springboard moonsault. Lashley then turned a high chokeslam into a full nelson for the submission victory. Alexander saved Ricochet after the match but was put in a full nelson for his efforts.
Result: Bobby Lashley defeats Ricochet via submission
Grade: A-
Drew McIntyre and Asuka vs. Sasha Banks and Dolph Ziggler
In a Champions vs. Challengers main event, we saw WWE Champion Drew McIntyre and Raw Women’s Champion Asuka take on Dolph Ziggler and one half of the Smackdown Tag Team Champions Sasha Banks. McIntyre and Asuka bonded backstage to prepare for the match and talk strategy. Banks and Bayley on the other hand warned Ziggler to not cost The Legit Boss the match and to do his job. Ziggler had no idea what to do against McIntyre so Banks repeatedly would save the match. The Boss was barely able to make a tag to save the match and Ziggler. Asuka battled out of the Banks Statement and locked in the Asuka lock only for Banks to counter and make it a pin for the win. Bayley and company then celebrated as Raw went off the air.
Result: Dolph Ziggler and Sasha Banks defeat Drew McIntyre and Asuka via pinfall.
Grade: A
Analysis: For the most part this was a very solid card filled with a lot of solid promos. The Rollins-Mysterio and Orton-Show feud are some of WWE’s hottest rivalry’s and I am looking forward to seeing it continue. If I had to grade this weeks episode of Raw I would give it a B-.
January 7th, 2008 the #2 Oklahoma Sooners took on the #1 Florida Gators for the BCS National Championship. The Florida Gators won by a score of 24-14. The Gators captured their 2nd BCS National Title in three years. The Florida Gators were coached by Urban Meyer.
The Florida Gators had an amazing roster that produced many NFL players. Some of the players on that roster were Tim Tebow, Aaron Hernandez, Percy Harvin, Carlos Dunlap, Will Hill, Janoris Jenkins, Brandon Spikes, Joe Haden, Riley Cooper, Cam Newton, Caleb Sturgis, Major Wright, Mike Pouncey, Maurkice Pouncey, and Marcus Gilbert.
Tim Tebow is known as one of the greatest college quarterbacks of all-time. He also won two National Championships. He has broken many SEC, Collegiate, and many Gators records. He won the Heisman in 2007. Tebow was drafted 25th overall in the 2010 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. In 2011 Tim Tebow took the Denver Broncos to the playoffs and beat the Pittsburgh Steelers. Tebow and the Broncos then ended up losing to the AFC Champion New England Patriots the next week in Foxborough. In his short-lived NFL career Tebow was well-respected and led many 4th quarter game-winning comebacks. Tebow is also one of the most religious athletes of all-time. He would wear eyeblack with John 3:16 representing a verse from the Bible. He would also, get down on one knee and pray. Now, Tebow is a College Football Analyst with ESPN while playing minor league baseball in the New York Mets farm system. Tebow might have still been in the NFL if he switched to running back or tight end. Tebow was never given a chance with his stint with the Jets and Rex Ryan moved him to special teams before cutting him.
Aaron Hernandez had a great career as a Gator. He won the John Mackey award in 2009. He was taken in the 4th round 113th overall by the New England Patriots. The reason his draft stock was so low was because he had many off-field issues. He played three seasons in the NFL putting up good numbers. When he played with Rob Gronkowski the two formed an unstoppable duo. Hernandez even played in the Super bowl but lost to the New York Giants. On August 27th, 2012, Hernandez signed a 5-year contract extension. He was then investigated for a double-murder and murdering his friend and his girlfriend’s sister’s fiancée. In the NFL Hernandez could not escape his off-field issues and they escalated. On June 26th, 2013 Aaron Hernandez was released by the Patriots after being found guilty of the murder. Before the investigation of the double murder Aaron Hernandez hung himself in his jail cell and he passed away. Netflix made a documentary about Aaron Hernandez in January that I highly recommend watching. Hernandez also had CTE which is a terrible brain injury that causes violent mood swings and many other issues.
The Gators also had Percy Harvin. Harvin was used as a running back for the Gators. He had a very good career as a member of the Gators. He was drafted 22nd overall in the 2009 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings. In the NFL he was used as a wide reciever. In Harvin’s rookie year he was selected to the Pro Bowl and won Offensive Rookie of the Year. He played for five teams in his NFL career. Harvin admitted he would get high before every game to reduce his anxiety. Harvin was plagued by many injuries which caused his career to be short. Harvin now is looking to make an NFL comeback but he has not found any success so far.
Carlos Dunlap was very good on the Gators defensive line. He was drafted 54th overall in 2010 by the Cincinnati Bengals. Dunlap has played for the Bengals his whole career and is still playing now. Dunlap made the Pro Bowl in 2015 and 2016. In 2015 he had 13.5 sacks.
Hill had a good career in college. His first year in the NFL was in 2012 with the New York Giants. Hill also played for the Baltimore Ravens after he was cut by the Giants for getting arrested due to driving with a suspended license. He also has been suspended for failing the NFL’s substance abuse policy on numerous occasions.
Janoris Jenkins had a good career in Florida. However, he struggled with the law as he was arrested twice for possession of marijuana. He was also arrested again in 2009 for being in a fight. Jenkins was drafted 39th overall in 2012 by the St. Louis Rams. Jenkins was a member of the All-Rookie Team in 2012. He also made the Pro Bowl in 2016 with the New York Giants. He was released by the Giants after calling a heckler on Twitter a retard.
Brandon Spikes had an amazing career as a Gator. He was a tackling machine as he led the SEC in tackles in 2007. In 2008 and 2009 he was a consensus All-American. Spikes was drafted 62nd overall by the New England Patriots. In the NFL he played for the Patriots and the Buffalo Bills. He struggled in the NFL and did not do well. He dealt with issues with the law as he plead guilty for a hit-and-run.
Joe Haden had an outstanding career in college. He was a consensus All-American in 2009. Haden was drafted 7th overall in 2010 by the Cleveland Browns. Haden has played for the Cleveland Browns and the Pittsburgh Steelers. In 2010 Haden made the all-rookie team. Haden made the Pro Bowl in 2013, 2014, and 2019.
Riley Cooper had an average career at Florida. He was not the number one wide reciever until he broke out his senior year. Cooper was drafted 159th overall in 2010 by the Philadelphia Eagles. His only good or decent year was in 2013. He had issues with some of his teammates when he used the N-word at a Kenny Chesney concert but than issued an apology. His last year in the NFL was 2015.
Cam Newton did not do well in his time at Florida. He was the backup QB his whole time there. In 2008 Newton was arrested on felony charges of burglary, larceny, and obstruction of justice on an accusation of him stealing a laptop from another University of Florida student. Cam Newton transferred to Auburn University. He had an amazing year there. The following year he went 1st overall to the Carolina Panthers. In 2011 he won Offensive Rookie of the Year. Newton is a 3-time Pro Bowler and won the MVP in 2015. He took the Panthers to the Super Bowl but were blown out by the Denver Broncos. Newton just got signed by the New England Patriots on Sunday June 28th.
Caleb Sturgis was a good kicker for the Gators. He was drafted 166th overall in 2013 by the Miami Dolphins. Sturgis last played in the NFL for the Los Angeles Chargers in 2018.
Major Wright was a solid defensive back for the Gators. He recorded many interceptions for the Gators defense. He was drafted 75th overall by Chicago Bears in 2010. Major Wright did not do well in the NFL as he was a mediocre safety. He last played in the NFL in 2016 with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Mike Pouncey was a stud offensive lineman protecting Tim Tebow. Mike Pouncey was drafted 15th overall in 2011 by the Miami Dolphins. Mike was a member of the all-rookie team in 2011. He is a 4-time Pro Bowler. He also has played for the Los Angeles Chargers.
Maurkice Pouncey (Mike’s brother) was another solid offensive lineman for the Gators. His success continued in the NFL as he was drafted 18th overall in the 2010 draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. In 2009 he was a Consensus All-American and won the Dave Rimington Trophy. Maurkice was a member of the all-rookie team in 2010. Pouncey is an 8-time pro bowler and was a first team all-pro in 2011 and 2014. In 2019 he was suspended for his role in the Mason Rudolph and Myles Garrett brawl as he was suspended two games.
Marcus Gilbert was another solid offensive lineman for the Gators. He was drafted 63rd overall in 2011 by the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was reunited with college teammates Maurkice Pouncey and Joe Haden. Gilbert was suspended in 2017 for violating the NFL’s performance enhancing drugs policy. In 2017 Gilbert was also sued for body slamming and injured the mans right leg and back. Gilbert was traded to the Arizona Cardinals in March of 2019 and then resigned a one year deal.
This Gators team needs a 30 for 30 on ESPN. They won the National Championship and were coached by Urban Meyer who is a great coach. Tim Tebow the leader of that team was a great athlete and devoted catholic. Meanwhile, a few of his teammates even though were criminals some also had great success in the NFL. ESPN needs to make a documentary about this showing the success and failures of the Gators players and their futures.
The Pittsburgh Penguins have been one of the hottest teams in the NHL over the last decade and counting. They are led by many stars such as Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang. Including this year the Penguins have made the playoffs for fourteen consecutive seasons. That is the longest active streak in the NHL and second-longest streak in North American sports behind the San Antonio Spurs. The Penguins still would have made the playoffs even without this format. The only differences are the Penguins seed and opponent.
Even though 2009 was not in the last decade, I had to mention that the Penguins won the Stanley Cup that year as it was the last year of the 2000’s. In 2015 the Penguins decided to go all in and acquire sniper Phil Kessel from the Toronto Maple Leafs to try and win the Stanley Cup once again. Kessel helped the Penguins win the Stanley Cup in 2016 against the San Jose Sharks and 2017 against the Nashville Predators. Two Stanley Cup wins and making the playoffs for 14 straight seasons is a successful and dominant decade.
However, the Penguins only trail the Chicago Blackhawks with most Stanley cups in the decade. The Blackhawks won in 2010, 2013, and 2015. Even though, the Blackhawks won more Stanley cup than the Penguins, the Blackhawks did not make the playoffs every year in that decade like the Penguins have.
The Penguins also have had an amazing roster. Coached by Mike Sullivan, he has been able to make Pittsburgh successful bringing in two Stanley Cups and continuing to be dominant even today. Some notable players are Sidney Crosby, Jake Guentzel, Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang, Matt Murray, Tristan Jarry, Patric Hornqvist, Jason Zucker, Patrick Marleau, Justin Schultz, and John Marino. The Penguins have been known for having great depth on all lines and goaltenders as well as a lethal scoring punch on the first two lines.
In 2016 some notable players the Penguins had were Phil Kessel, Nick Bonino, Chris Kunitz, Marc-Andre Fleury, Matt Cullen, Ian Cole, and Trevor Daley that are no longer on the team. The Penguins have always had Crosby, Malkin, and Letang through their three recent Cup wins.
In 2017 some notable players the Penguins had were Ryan Reaves, Riley Sheahan, Ron Hainsey, Carl Hagelin, and Jamie Oleksiak. These players helped contribute to the Penguins Stanley Cup win in 2017. Not only have the Penguins had one of the most dominant records and accolades, but one of the most dominant rosters.
This is a very special episode of Smackdown. This weeks episode will feature a tribute to The Undertaker who announced his retirement. He has been in the WWE for 30 years. He is a future WWE Hall of Famer. His last match was at WrestleMania against AJ Styles in a boneyard match. Smackdown is showing that match tonight as well as many career highlights to honor the Phenom.
Alexa Bliss vs. Dana Brooke vs. Nikki Cross vs. Lacey Evans
Bayley and Sasha Banks were at commentary joining Michael Cole and Corey Graves. This match was confusing as Bliss and Cross are a tag team so it was very obvious the two would double team Brooke and Evans. As expected, that is what happened until Evans and Brooke were thrown out of the ring. Cross then rolled up Bliss for the pin for a near-fall. Bliss understood the situation and tried the same thing. Lacey Evans threw Bliss out of the ring and into the barricade. Cross pinned The Southern Belle for the win. This match was a good warmup but we didn’t see a lot of all four women go at it. Most of the match was 2-3 people. Also, Cross will now face Bayley and I am fairly certain Bayley will win.
Result: Nikki Cross pinned Lacey Evans via pinfall to defeat Alexa Bliss, Dana Brooke, and Lacey Evans.
Grade: B-
The New Day and Lucha House Party vs. Cesaro, Nakamura, Miz and Morrison
All of these wrestlers are great in the ring and entertaining. I was excited to see how this match would turn out. The Miz and Big E started off the match. Big E had control of the match and almost won right off the gate. Lince Dorado and Gran Metalik showed off their stellar high-flying abilities on Cesaro before Nakamura took over. Many different brawls took place at ringside leaving The Miz and Morrison in the ring with Lucha House Party. The Lucha House party ended up pinning the Miz picking up the victory. This match was very fun and interesting to watch. With multiple wins as of late, it looks like the Lucha House Party could be getting a title shot soon.
Result: The New Day and Lucha House Party defeat Cesaro, Nakamura, Miz and Morrison via pinfall.
Grade: A-
Baron Corbin vs. Jeff Hardy
After the Boneyard match ended, Baron Corbin came out to the ring and delivered a promo against the Undertaker. He called Undertaker “a butt kisser” and has been overrated for the past 30 years. Corbin is a great heel as he is a great wrestler and great on the mic. Jeff Hardy took offense to what Corbin said and attacked him which set up the main event. Many superstars were gathered at ringside to watch the match. Hardy got in a few early shots, but Corbin controlled most of the beginning of the match. Hardy then took control once he threw Corbin out of the ring. Hardy then proceeded to throw Corbin over the announce table. Hardy then hit Corbin with a Swanton Bomb for the win once the action returned to the ring. After the match, Big E, Kofi Kingston, Matt Riddle, and Braun Strowman all did moves on Corbin. Right before going off the air Hardy showed a sign of respect towards the Dead Man.
Result: Jeff Hardy defeats Baron Corbin via pinfall.
Grade: A
Analysis: Even with only three matches, Smackdown was still a very solid show. Even with the current pandemic, WWE still incorporated a lot of superstars on the roster. Smackdown also did a well-deserved tribute to the Undertaker showing his last match with many legends and current superstars showing respect towards Undertaker. I would give this show a B+.
The Yankees have not made it to the World Series since they won in 2009 against the Philadelphia Phillies. However, the Yankees have made the playoffs the last three years with two of those seasons being 100+ wins. The Yankees are managed by Aaron Boone, a former Yankee and World Series hero. He is now looking to bring a World Series back to New York as a manager. The Yankees came close to advancing to the World Series if they never lost to the Houston Astros who cheated in 2017. The Astros stole signs from the Yankees and players would bang on a trashcan to alert the Astros hitters what type of pitch was coming. The Astros big 3 of Jose Altuve, Carlos Correa, and Michael Brantley hit significantly better at Minute Maid Park than at Yankee Stadium. However, the Yankees have one of the best rosters in the league and are World Series favorites once the league resumes in late July.
In the offseason the Yankees signed ace Gerrit Cole. With the exception of 2016 and 2017, Cole has been an elite pitcher in the MLB. In his career he is 94-52 with a 3.22 ERA. He has also struck out 1,336 batters. To compliment Cole, the Yankees have Luis Severino. Severino has a career record of 42-26 with a career ERA of 3.46. In 2018 he had an amazing year where he went 19-8 with a 3.39 ERA. Severino is most likely out for this season as he had Tommy John Surgery. The Yankees also have Masahiro Tanaka and James Paxton who are both great pitchers.
The Yankees also have an amazing bullpen. Even though they lost Dellin Betances to the rival New York Mets, the men in pinstripes still have an elite bullpen. Some notable players are Zach Britton, Tommy Kahnle, Adam Ottavino, and closer Aroldis Chapman. Chapman is one of the fastest pitchers of all-time and is an elite closer. He was a huge reason the Cubs won the World Series in 2016 and he is good enough where he can help bring the Yankees one as well.
At catcher and one member of the Bronx Bombers, the Yankees have Gary Sanchez. Although Sanchez’s batting average has dipped tremendously the last two years he still has a lot of power at the catcher position. In 2019 Sanchez had 34 homeruns with 77 RBI’s.
The Yankees infield is stacked consisting of first baseman Luke Voit, second baseman DJ LeMahieu, shortstop Gleyber Torres, and third baseman Gio Urshela. Since coming to the Bronx Bombers, Voit has revived his career. In the one and a half seasons Voit has been with the Yankees he has clubbed 35 homeruns and 95 RBI’s. DJ last year was the best and most consistent hitter for the Yankees on the best contract in baseball in terms of his value which was 2 years $24 million dollars. DJ hit .327 with career highs of 26 homeruns and 102 RBI’s. Gleyber Torres is a future star who is only 23 years old and a top-5 shortstop. In Torres’s two-year career he has 62 homeruns and 167 RBI’s with a .278 batting average. He also, has 11 career stolen bases and is an amazing fielder. In Urshela’s first year with the Yankees he had a career year slugging 21 homeruns and 74 RBI’s with a .314 batting average. Even with the loss of Didi Gregorious, the Yankees still have great depth with infielders Mike Ford and Miguel Andujar.
All six members of the Yankees outfield are either consistent or elite. Brett Gardner and Aaron Hicks aren’t the best hitters or at least recently but they provide defense and speed. Not all nine hitters need to be elite hitters. The best lineup is a well-rounded lineup that provides defense, hitting, power, and speed. Gardner is the most tenured member on the roster and is a leader in the clubhouse. Hicks is one of the best fielding outfielders in the league as he has a great arm and is a great fielder. The Yankees also have young players Mike Tauchman and Clint Frazier who are valuable bench players that could develop into starter roles when Gardner retires and if Hicks leaves. Judge and Stanton are elite power hitters with amazing arms. However, Stanton is mainly used as a DH however, you may see Stanton in the field more now that Andujar is healthy. The last two years Judge has clobbered 27 homeruns in both seasons. In 2018 Stanton had 38 homeruns and 100 RBI’s.
Overall, the Yankees roster is a force to be reckoned with. The Yankees are poised to have a great year in this shortened season.
Brian's World of Sports 