Posts Tagged ‘The War Room’

WRS Book Review: Mike Tyson – Undisputed Truth

Friday, December 6th, 2013

by Jimmy Williams

I have read many books this year.  In fact this is the 37th book I’ve read.  I know people who have read more but most people I know haven’t read nearly as many.  And yes I’m bragging because I take pride in my reading, because Jadakiss was right about you Libyans. At any rate I bring up the fact that I’ve read so many books just to say this was the most entertaining book I have read this year, BAR NONE.

I could not stop reading once I started.  This book was depressing, inspirational, hilarious, insightful, and tragic.  I’ve read many biographies and none have been this honest and transparent.  The stories of his upbringing and his relationship with his mother were hard to read, but also makes his journey more understandable.

My friends and I grew up during the “Tyson Era” and he was damn near a super hero to us, whose story had a tragic ending, until recently.  One of the reasons we love YouTube so much is because it was a place where we could watch and relive the old Tyson interviews and press conferences, and damn near die from laughter when he seemed out of his mind and would say the most random things.  Now I have more insight into why he said some of the things he did (even though there is no excuse for some of the craziness he’s spoken).  His knowledge on the history of boxing is impressive, and his ability to be completely out of control but also be self-aware is very interesting as well. Even the epilogue was entertaining, although it read like the ramblings of a bi-polar man having an episode of hypomania.

I could go on and on about specific stories from the book but I don’t want to give anything away.  Just know that regardless of your opinion about Mike Tyson, you will find his story entertaining.

Jimmy “The Blueprint” Williams of The War Room, for War Room Sports

After Further Review (#414)

Friday, December 6th, 2013

by Christopher Dinkins

AFTER FURTHER REVIEW #414 SHOUTOUT to you DAN FOUTS….((NBA)) KNICKS 113 (ANTHONY 19/10) NETS 83 (LOPEZ 24)…..CLIPPERS 101 (PAUL 15) GRIZZLIES 81 (CONLEY 16)…BULLS 107 (NOAH 17/15) HEAT 87 (JAMES 21)….umm…since the KNICKS won last night will the confetti come down from the ceiling ????….don’t need to hear anything about a championship…thank you very much…and BROOKLYN NETS….hmmmm……the jury is still out on COURT ST about them dudes….INDIANA…PORTLAND and SAN ANTONIO etc…still have points to prove…((NCAAHOOPERY)) **AFTER FURTHER REVIEW TOP 10 RANKINGS 1.ARIZONA 2.OHIO STATE 3.SYRACUSE 4.KENTUCKY 5.MICHIGAN STATE 6.DUKE 7.OKLAHOMA STATE 8.WISCONSIN 9.LOUISVILLE 10.CONNECTICUT**….womens side 1-UCONN 97 (HARTLEY 25) UC-DAVIS 37 (FIPPS 13)…2-DUKE 99 (JONES 22) 16-PURDUE 78 (HOUSER 20)….**AFR TOP 10 NCAA WOMENS HOOPERY RANKINGS 1.UCONN 2.TENNESSEE 3.DUKE 4.KENTUCKY 5.NOTRE DAME 6.STANFORD 7.LOUISVILLE 8.BAYLOR 9.MARYLAND 10.COLORADO**….whatchoo like so far this season in COLLEGE HOOPERY ??…..((NFL)) JAGUARS 27 TEXANS 20….some big games on tap for WEEK 14….wonder how ELI MANNING (GIANTS) feels about going to SAN DIEGO this weekend…oh man they gonna give him the business…best believe THAT !!!!!….dontchoo kinda think NBC wishes they couldda “flexed” KC-WASHINGTON ???…..hmmmm…..now TEXANS know how BUCCANEERS felt couple of years back…..((NCAAF)) 19-LOUISVILLE 31 CINCINNATI 24-OT…..JAMEIS WINSTON (FLORIDA STATE) is back in HEISMAN saddle again…. who else gets the invite ???….CHRIS PETERSON will leave BOISE ST to become new HEAD COACH at WASHINGTON…..UNIV of CALIFORNIA will name their stadium after video game maker KABAM !!!!….niceness….*****SHOUTOUT to GETTIN IT DONE RADIO/NOT97.com******….the MAYOR will be in the building check it out…checka check it out !!!!….((NHL)) RANGERS 3 SABRES 1…MAPLE LEAFS 3 STARS 2(OT)…PENGUINS 5 SHARKS 1…CANADIENS 2 BRUINS 1…LIGHTNING 3 SENATORS 1…PANTHERS 5 JETS 2…BLUES 5 ISLANDERS 1…HURRICANES 5 PREDATORS 2…WILD 4 BLACKHAWKS 3…OILERS 8 AVALANCHE 2…LONG STREAK (PENGUINS 5) WRONG STREAK (ISLANDERS …..hope HENRIK LUNDQVIST doesn’t suffer from “RICKDIPIETROitis” after signing that extension…..gotta show and prove KING….((((RIP NELSON MANDELA….THANK YOU SIR))))…..((MLB)) MARLINS sign RAFAEL FURCAL…DODGERS re-sign BRIAN WILSON…EDWARD MUJICA signs with RED SOX….BREWERS trade NORICHIIKA AOKI to ROYALS….WINTER MEETINGS should be nice !!!!!…..NBA GAME of the day WARRIORS (11-8) v ROCKETS (13-7)….NHL GAME of the day COYOTES (16-8-4) v CANUCKS (15-10-5)….TRUE SCHOOL JAM of the day “BITTIES IN THE BK LOUNGE” – DE LA SOUL….its FRIDAY…..watch out for dem GARBAGE KICKERS !!!!…..the BALLISTICS have been kicked !!!!!…..AFR.

Christopher “The Mayor” Dinkins, for War Room Sports

10 NBA Players on the Verge of Super Stardom

Friday, December 6th, 2013

by Christian Roberts

Pistons C Andre Drummond:
13.5 ppg 12.8 rpg 1.3 bpg 2.0 spg 64% fg

Andre Drummond has pretty much exceeded everybody’s expectations of him since being drafted in the 2012 draft. The level of dominance he shows in the paint night in and night out, is really something to see. He does this with ease because he’s that much more athletic than every other center in the NBA. President of Basketball Operations, Joe Dumars has even been quoted recently as saying “I didn’t think Drummond was this good”. That should speak volumes to what this guy is doing right now. His efficiency on the offensive end of the ball is also what makes him so special. Shooting 64%. Just a look at how dominant the big man has been has of late. Here’s his stat line from the last 3 games:

24 points 19 rebounds 3 block 2 steals vs Bucks
10 points 18 rebounds 2 steals 1 block vs Heat
31 points 19 rebounds 6 steals 2 blocks vs 76ers

He’s doing all this while only playing 33 minutes per game. I think right now the Cleveland Cavaliers, Charlotte Bobcats, and Washington Wizards are kicking themselves in the behind for passing on Drummond. Imagine how much better those teams would be with him. It’s still early but this young center is not just on the verge of super stardom, but he’s on the verge of greatness. He is still figuring things out on the court, think 3 years from now, he might be the most unstoppable center in the NBA.

Pacers G/F Paul George:
24.9 ppg 3.4 apg 5.9 rpg 2.1 spg 47% fg

Some may argue Paul George is already a superstar. Whether you think he is now or not really, doesn’t matter. He will be. Arguably the best two-way player the NBA has to offer, George’s star is shining brighter than ever this year. Since Danny Granger went down all season with an injury last year, the talented wingman has single-handedly put the Pacers on his back. Last year, pushing the defending champion Miami Heat to their limits, this year, Paul George is out for blood. Having improved his jump shot and making better shot decisions, makes him almost unguardable. On defense, the Pacers’ guard brings it every night. Causing fits for some of the NBA’s very best. Paul George has put himself in the MVP conversation already in this early NBA season. A conversation some might have thought to be laughable in the off-season. He is making the world realize how talented he really is. It’s going to be fun to see how far he can take the Indiana Pacers this year.

Nuggets PG Ty Lawson:
20.2 ppg 8.1 apg 3.8 rpg 1.1 spg 46% fg

Denver has been looking for a go-to scorer and star since Carmelo Anthony was traded to the New York Knicks. Ty Lawson is emerging into that player for the Nuggets. Don’t be fooled by his small stature, he can ball and ball at a very high level. He is also a feisty perimeter defender and plays the passing lane very well. Denver started the season off slow but has now picked it up, and part of that is due to Ty Lawson’s play every night. By the end of the season Lawson should be a household name.

Kings C Demarcus Cousins:
21.7 ppg 10.1 rpg 2.6 apg 1.2 bpg 1.6 spg 48% fg

I think we all knew the story on Demarcus Cousins coming out of Kentucky. Extremely talented and could be a great player if he wants to be, but his immaturity and temper might prevent that. Up until this season all the immaturity concerns and temper problems proved to be true. This year, Cousins seems to have his head on straight and is maximizing his potential. Though the Kings are still not a very good team, Cousins has been the only consistent piece. With a wide array of moves, he poses matchup problems every night. You can’t really double team him in the post because he’s one of the better passing centers in the league. There aren’t too many flaws in the big man’s game, other than he sometimes takes way too many shots. But on that team, can anyone blame him?. As long as Demarcus can stay focused on basketball and continue to grow as a person, I see no reason he can’t be a superstar. Talent isn’t the issue. It’s all the other things not basketball related.

Cavaliers PG Kyrie Irving:
20.6 ppg 5.9 apg 3.4 rpg 1.0 spg 40% fg

The Cavs PG is having somewhat of a down year, but it’s not completely his fault. He has to do it all on a nightly basis and is the team’s only consistent scorer. That being said, even through a down year, you can’t deny the fact that Kyrie is a superstar in the making. Great ball-handler, passer, and just has a great feel for the PG position. Irving’s best attribute without a doubt, is that silky smooth jump shot. He is hands down one of the best shooters in the league and is dangerous from anywhere on the court. Also, Kyrie is not afraid of the big moment. He embraces it. That’s what superstars do. Cleveland’s front office really has to put some talent around this guy. Dion Waiters is about as hot and cold as you can get in the NBA. He’s not the answer, and they have no other real threat with the ball in their hands, which puts added pressure on Kyrie. You see the numbers he’s capable of putting up every night, imagine when he has someone to take the pressure off him consistently.

Pelicans C/PF Anthony Davis:
18.8 ppg 10.2 rpg 3.6 bpg 1.6 spg 49% fg

The best big man in the game as far as I’m concerned (most will disagree). What’s not to love about Davis? He’s an incredible defender, great around the rim, runs the the floor like a guard, and is a freak athlete. He also has a high motor, and gives 100% every night. The only thing standing in his way of taking that next step, is he is hurt a lot. This year he is already out for 4-6 weeks with a fractured hand. If he can stay healthy, no doubt he will reach that level of being a superstar. But you have to be on the court to do so.

Wizards PG John Wall:
19.0 ppg 9.2 apg 4.4 rpg 2.2 spg 41% fg

The former Kentucky guard is showing us every night why he earned that hefty contract extension in the off-season. Averaging a career high 9.2 assists per game, Wall looks to be more comfortable running the point this year. He and 2nd year player Bradley Beal have made quite the dynamic duo this year. What makes Wall so special is his ridiculous speed and athleticism. Probably the fastest player in the NBA, John Wall is a downright beast in transition. That doesn’t come with some negatives though. Sometimes he plays out of control and that leads to a lot of turnovers. Another area of his game that can be fixed is his shot selection. Sometimes settling for too many jump shots. Typical growing pains for a young NBA player. We have yet to see the best of John Wall though. He hasn’t even scratched the surface on how good he can really be. He’s a superstar in the making.

76ers PG Michael Carter Williams (R):
17.7 ppg 7.3 apg 5.8 rpg 3.1 spg 40% fg

Yes, a rookie made this list. It’s not everyday you a see highly skilled 6’6″ point guard in the NBA. That’s exactly what MCW is. With unbelievable court vision and poise for a rookie PG, Williams has set the NBA world on fire. Having one career triple-double under his belt already and a near quadruple-double on opening night, the game just looks like it slowed down for him. Most young players’ problems are the speed of the game. MCW has no problem with that at all, looking like a seasoned vet on the court. The knock on him coming out of Syracuse was his shooting. Though not great, his jumpshot has been very impressive and so has his defense, stealing 3 balls per contest. MCW just has that “it” factor you don’t see in a lot of rookies coming out of school. It wouldn’t surprise me if 2-3 years from now, he’s the best PG in the game. This kid is that good.

Blazers PG Damian Lillard:
20.6 ppg 5.7 apg 4.1 apg 39% fg

Lillard is really a great player. Fearless scorer and not afraid to take that last second shot. Even though his field goal percentage is down from last year, you really can’t put a number on how he’s helped the Blazers back to relevancy. He has also helped Portland to one of the best records in the league, alongside LaMarcus Aldridge. His shot selection will have to be better if he wants to take that next step. But other than that, Lillard has all the tools of a star. The Blazers have a good enough team to make it far in the playoffs, and that will be Damian Lillard’s time to shine and prove he is among the league’s best.

Suns PG/SG Eric Bledsoe:
18.8 ppg 5.8 apg 4.3 rpg 1.5 spg 49% fg

Eric Bledsoe continues to be one of the NBA’s best kept secrets. A flat out steal for the Phoenix Suns in free agency, the undersized PG has proved his money’s worth. Dubbed by some the “mini Lebron”, Bledsoe is just as good on defense as he is on offense. One of the best perimeter guard defenders in the league. He might be small but he’s an extremely strong guard; especially when driving to the rim. He gets to the hole with ease. A true combo guard. He had to leave LA so he could flourish in his own role, other than playing behind Chris Paul every night. Even then, he showed flashes of being a great player in limited minutes. His former coach at Kentucky, John Calapari, is on record as saying “If not for John Wall being here, Bledsoe could have been the #1 pick in that draft”. That should speak volumes to the talent level of the young point guard. Led by Bledsoe, the future looks really bright for the Phoenix Suns.

Christian Roberts of Sportz Overtime, for War Room Sports

After Further Review (#412)

Wednesday, December 4th, 2013

by Christopher Dinkins

AFTER FURTHER REVIEW #412 SHOUTOUT to you RANDALL CUNNINGHAM…((NBA)) winners include THUNDER…SIXERS(2OT)…CELTICS…NUGGETS…PISTONS…GRIZZLIES…MAVERICKS…WARRIORS…why is LAWRENCE FRANK (NETS) being kicked off bench by JASON KIDD ???….if FRANK’s feelings were hurt by not being named interim….he should not have been surprised…HEAT 10 game winner is over…..and ZIGGY is PLEASED !!!….THE BIGGER SHOW went in last night ((as usual !!))..SHOUTOUT to CALLERS ((ZIGGY…KIA…ANGIE…TEE..MARC…DJ DIZ))…and SHOUTOUT to LISTENERS we see you too !!!!….((NCAAHOOPERY)) 2-ARIZONA 79 (ASHLEY 18/10) TEXAS TECH 58 (TAPSOBA 11)…4-SYRACUSE 69 (ENNIS 17) INDIANA 52 (VONLEH 17)…10-DUKE 79 (COOK 24) 22-MICHIGAN 69 (MCGARY 15/14)…ACC/BIG 10 CHALLENGE continues tonight…((NORTH CAROLINA v 1-MICHIGAN ST…MARYLAND v 5-OHIO STATE…8-WISCONSIN v VIRGINIA))……((NHL)) SHARKS 4 MAPLE LEAFS 2…PENGUINS 3 ISLANDERS 2(OT)…HURRICANES 4 CAPITALS 1…BLUE JACKETS 1 LIGHTNING 0…SENATORS 4 PANTHERS 2…STARS 4 BLACKHAWKS 3…CANUCKS 3 PREDATORS 1…COYOTES 6 OILERS 2…KINGS 3 DUCKS 2(SO)…..SIDNEY CROSBY (PENGUINS) is having a pretty decent season…..that nobody is paying attention to…((MLB)) YANKEES sign JACOBY ELLSBURY 7YR/$153M….its a good move and YANKEES are not playing around ….LETS GO YANKEES !!!!….RED SOX sign AJ PIERZYNSKI 1YR/$8.5M….JARROD SALTALAMACCHIA signs with MARLINS 3YR/$21M…..RAYS acquire HEATH BELL and RYAN HANIGAN…ASTROS acquire DEXTER FOWLER from ROCKIES…..ATHLETICS acquire CRAIG GENTRY from RANGERS….PADRES acquire SETH SMITH…..ROCKIES sign JUSTIN MORNEAU 2YR/$13M….CONGRATULATIONS to TONY CLARK (ex player) for being named head of MLBPA…((BOXING)) BROOKLYN will be in FULL EFFECT on saturday night….ZAB JUDAH v PAULIE MALIGNAGGI ((SHOWTIME/9PM))….next week is another good one ADRIEN BRONER v MARCOS MAIDANA….really cant wait for that one !!!…..((NCAAF)) MARCOS MARIOTA (OREGON) decides to stay in school….that’s a good look and he wouldn’t wanna go out with the season he had down the stretch…ZAC METTENBERGER (LSU) has torn ACL….MARK DANTONIO (MICHIGAN STATE) says either BIG TEN team ((MSU-OHIO STATE)) should be in BCS TITLE game…..USC hires STEVE SARKESIAN….so UCLA extends JIM MORA for 6 years…..let the games begin !!!!….NBA GAME of the day THUNDER (13-3) v BLAZERS (15-3)….NHL GAME of the day CANADIENS (16-9-3) v DEVILS (11-12-5)…..TRUE SCHOOL JAM of the day “WE GOT THE JAZZ (BUGGIN’ OUT)- TRIBE CALLED QUEST…..its HUMP DAY…make it happen for yourself !!!!!…..the BALLISTICS have been kicked !!!……….AFR.

Christopher “The Mayor” Dinkins, for War Room Sports

After Further Review (#410)

Monday, December 2nd, 2013

by Christopher Dinkins

AFTER FURTHER REVIEW #410 SHOUTOUT to you LYNN DICKEY….((NFL)) WEEK 13– DET 40 GB 10…DAL 31 OAK 24…BAL 22 PIT 20…JAX 32 CLE 28…CAR 27 TB 6…NYG 24 WAS 17…DEN 35 KC 28…CIN 17 SD 10…ATL 34 BUF 31(OT)…SF 23 STL 13…IND 22 TEN 14…MIN 23 CHI 20…MIA 23 NYJ 3…PHI 24 ARI 21…NE 34 HOU 31..TONIGHT NEW ORLEANS v SEATTLE…LONG STREAK (PANTHERS WRONG STREAK (TEXANS 10)…why is the NFL going to fine MIKE TOMLIN (STEELERS) for unknowingly being on the field during kick return by JACOBY JONES (RAVENS) on TURKEY night ??…. $100,000 is waaay way too much….another killing at ARROWHEAD STADIUM during CHIEFS game yesterday…some think PATRIOTS are cheating …again…..hmmminah…..((NCAAF)) ALABAMA got greedy and lost to AUBURN….think NICK SABAN wishes he could have that one back…don’t think we will be hearing much about ROLL TIDE any more this season….AFR has FLORIDA STATE at NUMBER 1…OHIO STATE is NUMBER 2 they had major problems with MICHIGAN over weekend…we kinda knew that ALABAMA was not gonna finish in the top spot….now what were you saying about the SEC ???….((NBA)) winners include PELICANS…THUNDER…NUGGETS…PACERS…PISTONS…WARRIORS…HEAT…BLAZERS…bad break for ANTHONY DAVIS (PELICANS) he has a broken hand….KEVIN DURANT (THUNDER) messes around and gets triple double (32/10/12A)…LONG STREAK (HEAT 10) WRONG STREAK (KNICKS 9)….((NCAAHOOPERY)) 3-KENTUCKY 79 (CAULEY-STEIN 15) PROVIDENCE 65 (COTTON 23)…..21-MEMPHIS 73 (GOODWIN 17) OKLAHOMA STATE 68 (FORTE 19)…..AFTER FURTHER REVIEW NCCAHOOPERY TOP 10 RANKINGS 1.MICHIGAN STATE (7-0) 2.ARIZONA (7-0) 3.KANSAS (6-1) 4.KENTUCKY (7-1) 5.OHIO STATE (6-0) 6.SYRACUSE (7-0) 7.WISCONSIN (8-0) 8.DUKE (6-2) 9.OKLAHOMA STATE (7-1) 10.LOUISVILLE (6-1)….bad deal for GEORGETOWN ..they remove GREG WHITTINGTON from team for academics…haven’t we seen enough of these stories ???….on WOMENS side 1-UCONN 70 (HARTLEY 17) OHIO STATE 49 (FERGUSON 14)…7-KENTUCKY 69 (STALLWORTH 16) LOUISVILLE 64 (SCHIMMEL 17)…5-NOTRE DAME 100 (MCBRIDE 22) DUQUESNE 61 (AGUNBIADE 23)….TARA VANDEVEER (STANFORD) wins her 900th game as coach….NICENESS !!!….((NHL)) CANUCKS 3 HURRICANES 2…RED WINGS 4 SENATORS 2…OILERS 3 STARS 2(SO)….DANIEL ALFREDSSON (RED WINGS) scores goal in his return to OTTAWA….AFTER FURTHER REVIEW NHL TOP 10 RANKINGS 1.BLACKHAWKS 2.SHARKS 3.PENGUINS 4.BRUINS 5.DUCKS 6.AVALANCHE 7.RED WINGS 8.WILD 9.KINGS 10.CANADIENS……..((MLB)) PHIL HUGHES signs deal with TWINS 3YR/$24M….good riddance !!!….he joins RICKY NOLASCO (TWINS) who signs deal 4YR/$49M……and in other money news DAVID ORTIZ (RED SOX) beard went for $11,000…..that’s not a “TEASE”…..((BOXING)) ADONIS STEPHENSON looks like he may have the goods….nice win over TONY BELLEW by 6th round TKO….who is next ???…..SERGEY ???…ZAB JUDAH v PAULIE MALIGNAGGI in BROOKLYN (BARCLAYS) on saturday night……gonna be good…..and NEXT WEEK its ADRIEN BRONER v MARCOS MAIDANA… don NOT miss it !!!…..NBA GAME of the day PACERS (16-1) v BLAZERS (14-3)….NHL GAME of the day BLUES (18-4-3) v KINGS (16-7-4)…..TRUE SCHOOL JAM of the day “I CANT GO FOR THAT”- HALL & OATES…..its MONDAY……get up THE ITIS IS OVAHHHHHHH!!!!!…..the BALLISTICS have been kicked !!!!!!……….AFR.

Christopher “The Mayor” Dinkins, for War Room Sports

Jordan Lynch: Unsung Hero

Friday, November 29th, 2013

by Christian Roberts

Jordan Lynch

With all the Heisman hype being talked about on just about every sports site, sports show etc., one name that constantly gets lost in the shuffle is Northern Illinois QB Jordan Lynch. The 6-foot quarterback has put his team on his back and led them to a 12-0 record this year and to the MAC championship. Seemingly breaking a new record every time he touches the field, the QB doesn’t get the same respect as a Jameis Winston or Johnny Manziel. The level of competition is the big reason for that. With Winston and Manziel playing in two of the premier conferences in the nation, the level of competition is indeed different. But the way Lynch is performing cannot be discredited because of who he’s playing week in and week out. He doesn’t make the conferences or set schedules. He just plays and plays at a high level every single week.

The dynamic QB’s numbers on the season are even more evidence he should be among the Heisman finalists in New York this year. Having passed for 2,457 passing yards & 22 touchdowns, and rushing for 1,755 yards & 20 touchdowns, you would be hard-pressed to find a more productive QB in the nation. Johnny Manziel put up similar numbers last year when he won the Heisman Trophy. So for Lynch to be a long-shot for the award is downright disrespectful. There is no doubt in my mind he would succeed in a top college conference. Northern Illinois’ first win and highlight on the season this year was their 30-27 victory over the Iowa Hawkeyes. In that game, he proved he can play with the bigger teams in the country, passing for 275 yards, 3 touchdowns, and rushing for 56 yards. Granted, Iowa isn’t Florida State, Texas A&M, Alabama, etc, but they are one of the better teams in the Big Ten and a respectable opponent.

We need to stop short-handing these top performers in college sports just because of who is on their schedule or what conference they are in. Not everybody can do what Lynch is doing. If that were the case, you would see more players putting up his kind of numbers. You don’t, because it’s not an easy thing to do, no matter who you are facing.

Simply put, Jordan Lynch is just a blue-collar football player. He might not have the prototypical size you want for your starting QB, but you can’t measure competitiveness and heart. He gets the job done and is a general on the football field. This is a guy you want in your huddle every Saturday. And this incredible season he is having deserves as much praise as the other top QB’s in the country. Appreciate the high level he is performing on and not the name of the conference or team on the jersey.

Christian Roberts of Sportz Overtime, for War Room Sports

5 NFL Draft Prospects that can help the Atlanta Falcons back to the postseason

Friday, November 29th, 2013

by Christian Roberts

The Falcons have surprised everyone this year. Not by how good they are, but how awful they are so far this season. With a 2-9 record, the playoffs are a no-go this year for a team that is a year removed from playing in the NFC championship game.
With help needed on both sides of the ball, here’s a list of 5 NFL draft prospects that can help lead the Falcons back to playoff contention.

1. South Carolina DE Jadeveon Clowney
The ultra talented defensive end isn’t having as explosive of a year as last season, but he is still going to be one of the prizes of the 2014 NFL Draft. Equally great against the pass and run, Clowney is sure to be a game-changer at the next level. If not for Louisville’s Teddy Bridgewater, Clowney might be the consensus number 1 overall pick. The Falcons are in a great position to add an elite player to an already talented team. Clowney would start from day 1 for Atlanta, and immediately upgrade a putrid defensive line.

2. Texas A&M OT Jake Matthews
Like the defensive line of the Falcons, the offensive line desperately needs talent on it. Matthews is good at protecting the passer but his strong suit is run blocking; something he is terrific at. This would help Atlanta find some kind of running game and open up holes to run through. The Texas A&M tackle is the cream of the crop in this year’s offensive line class. Atlanta would welcome him with open arms.

3. UCLA OLB Anthony Barr
Barr is somewhat of a “raw” prospect. This is only his 2nd year playing on the defensive side of the ball, and simply put, he is a force to be reckoned with. With rare speed for a linebacker, Barr causes havoc for offensive linemen. He is also very strong, something you would not think because of his lean 6’4 frame. He would be to Atlanta’s 4-3 defense what Von Miller is to the Broncos 4-3 defense. If Clowney is off the board when the Falcons pick, Barr should be at the top of their big board. His only downfall is he relies too much on his ridiculous athletic ability to make plays. Once he works on his technique more, sky’s the limit for this kid. He would give the Falcons a pass rush they have been desperately searching for, for years now. This is a terrific fit.

4. Michigan OT Taylor Lewan
In the case Jake Matthews from Texas A&M is gone, Lewan is their guy. With great size at 6’7″, 315 pounds, he was built to play Left Tackle. Long arms and quick feet also make him an elite offensive line prospect. He has to learn to play with his head in the game more, to negate all the penalties he gets called for. Once he does that, no doubt in my mind he will be a great Left Tackle at the next level. Matt Ryan would love to drop back knowing this big guy is protecting his blindside.

5. Alabama FS Hasean Clinton-Dix
Clearly the best safety in this class, this guy has all the makings of a ball-hawk at the next level. With great hands and closing speed, Clinton-Dix would be an immediate upgrade to the safety position for the “dirty birds”. Like alot of young safeties, he tends to get stuck on blockers, and he needs to work on his tackling ability. He does need to get stronger. Neither is too big of a concern and can be worked on with good coaching. Ed Reed wasn’t the greatest tackler coming out of “The U” either.

Christian Roberts of Sportz Overtime, for War Room Sports

It’s official: Foles it is

Wednesday, November 27th, 2013

by Brandyn Campbell

Brandyn Blog

Nick Foles is the starter for the Eagles (Image via PhiladelphiaEagles.com) Nick Foles is the starter for the Eagles
(Image via PhiladelphiaEagles.com)

It’s hardly a surprise at this stage. It was just a matter of time until it was announced.

After Nick Foles’ historic 7-touchdown performance in Oakland in Week 9, you knew that the Philadelphia Eagles could not return to Mike Vick as their starting quarterback. Foles was simply playing too well. You had to have him play for the rest of the season to see more of what he could do.

The subject was danced around each week following that early November thrill-ride, but on Tuesday Chip Kelly made it official: Nick Foles was the Eagles’ starting quarterback for the remainder of the season. Kelly wanted the matter settled once and for all so that Foles didn’t have to “look over his shoulder” for the rest of the season. This move was done to ensure that Foles’ focus is where it needs to be: Winning games for the Eagles.

Said Kelly of the decision,

“I said the other day, I think he’s done a great job of protecting the football and not putting us in bad situations.  When we have a shot and can take it down the field, he’s proven he can do that.  He’s got a great command of what we’re doing.  He’s a lot more comfortable in what we’re doing.  So it’s just kind of an ongoing process for him.”

The Birds come off of their bye with a winning record and in the heat of battle with the Cowboys for the top spot in the division. For a team that had little expectations at the beginning of the year other than that of a rebuilding squad, they suddenly find themselves in the playoff hunt.

Vick will be the team’s number two and Kelly says that the former starter is okay with that designation. He knew that Foles would be tough to unseat. What no one knows now, however, is what the future holds for Vick’s NFL career.

While sentiments are soaring for the moment with Foles, he must stand the test of the final month of the season and all of the stress, injuries, and playoff hopes this time of year brings. He has surprised us all with his poise under pressure so far this season. If he can continue his astonishing string of performances this month, the Eagles will find themselves in an interesting position when evaluating where they sit with finding the future QB of the franchise.

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Brandyn Campbell of Philly Sports Muse, for War Room Sports

How to Avoid the Holiday Weight Gain

Friday, November 22nd, 2013

by Maggie Mangiel

Maggie Blog

thanksgiving-dinner1

Thanksgiving is a few days away, and right around the corner is Christmas.  You just finished the last Kit Kat bar from the Halloween candy stash.  You are already starting to notice that your morning battles with skinny jeans are getting longer.  Last Winter, you gained about 8 lbs, the year before about 10 lbs, and you fought like hell each time to lose those stubborn pounds.  You were lucky that you were able to lose them.  According to the National Institute of Health, most Americans never lose the winter holiday weight.  Those pounds add up year after year leading to adult obesity.  So you might have wondered, like countless others, what’s the secret to avoiding those 10 Holiday Pounds?  Well, sorry for bursting your bubble, there is no secret.  Ok, there is one secret… or maybe two.  Namely, will power and portion control.  I know that it is easier said than done considering the endless temptations of holiday dishes.  However, there are few rules, easy and simple 10 rules if I may add, that make implementing portion control and willpower as easy as pie (no pun intended…hahaha…ok, maybe a little bit).  You can still enjoy your holiday festivities, the delicious baked goods and the sweets, without the nightmare of post-holiday weight gain.  Yes, fit people get to indulge too, and so can you, but you have to do the following:

Weight Loss

1. Limit your alcohol and sodas and quench your thirst with some H2O

Avoid drinking too much alcohol at holiday parties. Alcohol contains a lot of sugar and few of us can really control the amount consumed, and when we drink a lot, we can’t control the amount of food on our plate.  If you feel out of place without a drink, sip on water or tea.

2.  Never Arrive hungry

Planning ahead can help you maintain discipline in the face of temptation. Don’t go to a party on an empty stomach. Try to have a nutritious snack beforehand. If you do arrive hungry, drink some water to fill up before filling your plate.

3.  Look at the big picture

Many people forget that there’s more to a holiday party than food, like reconnecting with family and friends. Enjoy the human experience. Chatting is a great diversion, whether you’re at a small family dinner or a large party. A conversation can take your mind off the food.

4. Pace yourself

Have you ever tried telling yourself you’ll only eat during the first half hour of a party?  Yea that never works, so instead, chew slowly, taste and enjoy the food. Take your time and eat throughout the night.

5.  Outsmart the buffet and beat the line

When dinner is served buffet-style, use the smallest plate available and don’t stack your food; limit your helpings to a single story. Fill your plate with nutritiously dense foods like fruits and vegetables. Also get there first so you can get the food that you actually want instead of ending up with food that you don’t want and overeat out of disappointment.

6. Be picky and choosy about sweets but don’t swear them off

When it comes to dessert, be very selective. Limit your indulgences to small portions and only what is very sensual to you. If you plan on sampling several desserts, just take a little bit of each.  Don’t fill your plate up with a bunch of different desserts because you will eat it all. Trust me you will.

7. Bring your own treats

Whether you’re going to a friend’s party or an office potluck, consider bringing a low-calorie treat that you know you’ll enjoy. Bringing your own dessert will make the more fattening alternatives less tempting.

8. Don’t end up eating instead of “tasting”.

If you do a lot of cooking during the holidays, crack down on all those “tastes”.  Instead of tasting mindlessly every few minutes, limit yourself to two small bites of each item pre- and post-seasoning.  Dare yourself not to taste the dish at all until it is served.

9. Work it off

I know our routine gets messed up during the holidays, but don’t skip your regular exercise session unless it’s impossible.  Also, make a new holiday tradition such as a family walk, family game night, or playing Twister. Besides burning some extra calories, this will get everyone away from the food for a while.

10.  Avoid the morning after treats

Send guests home with the leftovers.  Remember, if it’s out of sight, it’s out of mind.

Bonus rule: keep calm and kick cravings. When you are craving something and you are already full, close your eyes and focus for about 30 seconds, then ask yourself why you need it. Chances are you will find out that you neither need nor want it.  Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and “toodles” to gain-free holidays!!!

Maggie Mangiel of Body on Track, for War Room Sports

Fantasy Sports Chronicles (Vol. 2): #IHateFantasyFootball

Monday, November 18th, 2013

by Devin McMillan

Dev Blog

Julius Thomas - Tight End - Denver Broncos (Image via Fansided.com) Julius Thomas – Tight End – Denver Broncos
(Image via Fansided.com)

Another true story from my Fantasy Football Chronicles…

I generally don’t check my fantasy scores during the day (Sundays) because frankly, it’s distracting and  meaningless.  There’s nothing you can do about the score or your lineup once the games have begun, except of course, if you are on the fence about some late-game starters, etc.  I do however get pop-up messages on my DirecTv when a player from my team scores points.  Since I hadn’t seen many alerts all day, I had just assumed that I was getting my ass kicked.  During the Sunday Night game (Chiefs at Broncos), I just so happened to peek at the score, only to find out that I was down by a mere 15 points, with my tight end (Julius Thomas – Broncos) currently in action and my defense (Panthers) playing on Monday Night.  Since my opponent had no players left, I suddenly felt optimistic.  If Thomas could get me a few more points, then he could lessen the load tonight for the Panthers as they try to put the clamps on Tom Brady and company.  I swear on EVERYTHING I hold dear, not 2 minutes after I made this realization, Julius Thomas was hit on the knee and left the game, never to return (at least I don’t think he returned…I took my ass to bed in disgust at that point).  He damn sure didn’t score another point.  So now I find myself down 15 points with the Panthers defense playing against Tom Terrific in the prime time lights of Monday Night Football.  The Panthers have a VERY good defense, but scoring 16 or more points tonight IS NOT LIKELY…is it???  #IHAteFantasyFootball

Please feel free to share some of your crazy, irony-filled stories about your experiences playing fantasy sports.

Devin McMillan of The War Room, for War Room Sports