Cutty Does It

   

   While watching Jay Cutler get through a terrible first half on Sunday against the Browns, I was pondering what Marc Trestman's postgame press conference would be like if his quarterback continued to struggle. Would Trestman channel his inner Lovie Smith and repeatedly say "Jay is our quarterback" in monotone as Smith did years ago when talking about Rex Grossman? How would the coach defend his decision to start a rusty quarterback when Josh McCown clearly had the hot hand?

   Twitter exploded in outrage as Cuter's first half passes were as bad as Pablo Sanchez's in Backyard Football. Fortunately for Bears fans either Cutler shook off the rust or the almighty power of Ditka intervened and Chicago beat Cleveland 38-31. 

   Even after Cutler's impressive fourth quarter some Bears fans are calling for McCown to start the next game against the Eagles. Their reasoning: Cutler got lucky. This is true. Cutler was incredibly lucky with two passes that Alshon Jeffery reeled in. Jeffery is proving himself to be an excellent complement to Brandon Marshall. However, McCown also relied on luck while he picked apart the Cowboys pathetic defense, which was ranked last against the pass. 

   Some of McCown's passes were lofty and required his receivers to make highlight reel catches. Just look back at the touchdown pass McCown threw to Jeffery in the corner of the end zone against the Cowboys.

   Don't get me wrong. McCown has proven that he can still play at the NFL level. He has certainly deserved a contract next season that pays him more than the league minimum that he is being paid now. I credit McCown's success more to Trestman's offensive system than the quarterback's skill level. Trestman's offensive play calling could transform former LSU QB and current McDonald's enthusiast JaMarcus Russell into a quality quarterback. 

   At the age of 34, Josh McCown is not an elite quarterback. In the coming years he will never develop into an elite quarterback in Trestman's system. You know who might turn into an elite quarterback running Trestman's offense? Jay Cutler.

   No, Cutler is not an elite quarterback now. Yes, sometimes his cockiness makes people want to punch him in the face. However, the Bears have a major decision to make this offseason. They must decide if they want to sign Cutler to a long term deal, officially labeling him as their franchise quarterback. In a city where the greatest quarterback in the past twenty years to line up under center has been Rex Grossman, they need to make the right choice. 

   People will argue that the playoffs this year are more important than the future, and that McCown gives the Bears the best chance to lead them to the promise land. Yes, I understand that quarterbacks with less skill than McCown (Trent Dilfer) have won the Super Bowl. The problem is that those teams, like the 2000-2001 Ravens, had defenses that were lights out game after game. This year's Bears defense plays as poorly as my C level freshman team in high school. 

   The focus of the remaining games for the Bears should be on the future, rather than just the playoffs. Cutler needs to start the remaining games of the year so Bears' personnel can see if he truly is fully recovered from his injuries. 

   People might want the Bears to start McCown, while franchise tagging Cutler this offseason, delaying the evaluation process until next year. Sit back and think if Cutler would be okay with that. He will create more of a firestorm than I did when my local Dunkin' Donuts went out of business. 

   Why does Cutler get this special treatment and have all his needs catered to? The answer is because he is the best quarterback this city has seen in decades. 

   If the Bears want to make him the future of the franchise they have to get it right. While McCown will quite possibly be out of the league in three years, Cutler may be providing for the Cutlet (his child) with the millions the Bears give him. If they make this choice, let's hope it is the right decision. If it isn't, get the Chicago Police on speed dial because this city will riot.

Agree with Nick or do you think Josh McCown should be the starter? Comment below the link

Follow Nick on Twitter: @KapN93

The Sports ReKap with Nick and his co-host DJ Vogt (@dvj14) will start airing again in January.

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Wooden Legacy Championship Preview: Marquette vs. San Diego State

Marquette looks to make it three straight wins as they take on San Diego State on Sunday. The Golden Eagles are coming off a 76-60 win against George Washington led by Senior, Davante Gardner. 

Gardner came into the game early for Marquette, chipping in 20 points and nine rebounds in a career high 35 minutes.

"That was the highest number of minutes Davante has ever played, "Marquette Head Coach Buzz Williams said. " I thought he was playing at a really high clip"

Marquette has improved offensively since scoring only 35 points against Ohio State on November 16th. Much of the credit goes to Senior, Jake Thomas, who is now shooting 45 percent from the three-point arc and was only at 26 percent prior to the start of the Wooden Legacy Tournament. 

However, the three point shot has been a struggle for the Golden Eagles defensively, allowing 45 percent (10-22) to Arizona State and 42 percent (8-19) to Cal State Fullerton in their two games prior to defeating George Washington. Head Coach Buzz Williams made an adjustment defensively by playing less zone defense and putting an emphasis on contending the three point shot. The approach was successful as the Colonials only shot 21 percent (4-19) from three.

Marquette will have to use the same game plan on Sunday when they face the San Diego State Aztecs for the Wooden Legacy Championship Game. The Aztecs defeated the Golden Eagles future Big East rival, Creighton, on Friday 86-80, making 50 percent (8-16) of their three point attempts.

Marquette 

The Golden Eagles are developing into an all around balanced team with a lot of depth. Marquette struggled to score earlier in the season but seems to have found some perimeter ability in the hands of Jamil Wilson, Todd Mayo, Jake Thomas, and Jujuan Johnson to compliment the success in the paint. Look for the Golden Eagles to find their talented and experienced front court first, but also to be efficient on opportunities from the outside.

San Diego State 

It didn't take many attempts for the Aztecs to score points in their upset over
#20 Creighton. San Diego State is almost 50 percent from the field this season. Marquette has dominated rebounds in all of their games. In order for the Aztecs to win they need to keep their shooting percentage high and limit turnovers since they will most likely struggle with the boards.

This game is on a neutral court, but the San Diego State fans really made it feel like a home court advantage against Creighton. This may be a slight advantage, however Marquette is led by seven upperclassmen that are used to playing on the road.

Bottom Line

Marquette defense vs San Diego State offense

The Aztecs are not afraid to shoot, nor are they afraid to drive to the basket. San Diego State made 26 out of 31 free throw attempts against Creighton. Marquette has to play smart defense, limit fouls and force turnovers to win this game.

Prediction

The Golden Eagles identity is putting 100 percent into every aspect of the game. They accomplish this by taking the charge and out hustling their opponent, two things that Buzz Williams loves about his squad. This could be a huge factor on Sunday that should help Marquette take care of business in Orange County.

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Game 6: The Kid Wonder vs The Experienced Papi

#WachaWachaWacha #Wachtober #WachaFlockaFlame #LukeSkyWacha

The 22-year-old rookie, Michael Wacha is trending not only by word of mouth, but also on social media after putting together spectacular starts in October.

With one start left, Wacha has already tied the Cardinals record set by Chris Carpenter in 2011 with 4-0 record in the postseason. In 27 postseason innings, the right-hander has a 1.00 ERA and a 0.70 WHIP, looks to tie Francisco Rodriguez and Randy Johnson by winning five times this postseason.

Yes, his numbers are spectacular and he doesn't seem to have shown any signs of nervousness to this point, but there is one thing that ticked him off and I'm sure its on the top of his mind. That is of course, David Ortiz.

In Game 2 of the World Series, "Big Papi" was ready to show the significance of being a veteran ballplayer, and in doing that, he exposed that Michael Wacha is human. On a three balls and two strike count, Wacha tossed a changeup right on the upper corner of the strike zone. "Papi" yanked the changeup over the Green Monster, giving the Red Sox a 2-1 in the sixth and knocking Wacha out of the game.

After the game, Ken Rosenthal caught up with Cardinals catcher, Yadier Molina. When Molina was asked about Wacha's performance, he said that besides a few walks, Wacha made one bad pitch (the homerun given up to Ortiz) all night.

The Redbird offense bailed Wacha out in Game Two, but looking at the lack of offense in Games Four and Five, Wacha may not be able to make any mistakes to the dangerous, David Ortiz.  Ortiz in the postseason is batting .733 right now. Yes, thats .733 with six RBI's and five runs.

In order for a Game Seven at Fenway, Wacha is going to have to limit "Big Papi". That is the key to success for the St. Louis Cardinals in Game 6. And if they can't, then the 2013 World Series should end Wednesday night in Boston.

A Letter To Vander

   As of October 27^th, 2013 Vander Blue is not on an NBA roster. The former Marquette basketball player was waived by the 76ers on October 24^th. About one month ago, when Blue was signed by Philadelphia I made a bet with one of my friends late on a Saturday night. Yes the bet was made after I was downing the extremely manly drink that is Red’s Apple Ale (hey anything is manly compared to my favorite drink, Four Loko). Slurring my words, and probably in between comments about my newfound fetish for Latina women, I proclaimed that if Vander made the 76ers I would type up an apology letter and send it to him on Twitter. See I openly bash Vander every time someone brings up his name. “But if he doesn’t make the team I’ll create a letter bashing him and send it to him on Twitter”. So here is that letter. I will happily be the voice of the upset Marquette basketball fan who is still mad at Blue’s departure. If you do not believe that I will send it to him, by all means follow me on Twitter(@KapN93) and see for yourself. Here we go folks. This should be fun!

Dear Vander Orange,

   Yeah that’s right I said Vander Orange. Do I still get free tuition if you punch me in the face? So what is up my man? Another team, another time you have been cut. Regretting that decision now are ya? I’m sure you are not. You never wanted to be here in the first place. 

   What boggles my mind is why you left? Were you not thinking rationally? You + Buzz + team he assembled= chance at Final Four. How hard is that to understand?

   “Aw man this is just another hater.” Yes sir (I have no idea why I called you sir) I am a hater. Your number one hater. See unlike you I am going to be up to my eyeballs in debt after leaving this school. Unlike you I will have a degree. You know what I probably won’t have, the ability to say that my team won a national championship while I was here. 

   I was eating Dogg Haus, you remember the place where you would find your…never mind. Anyways I was at Dogg Haus and I was thinking about what the celebration would have been like if you guys won a championship. Nobody would have to go to classes for like a week (not that you went to class anyways). You would be seen as a god for the rest of your life. Let me explain that in terms you would understand. Everybody would treat you like freshmen girls treated you.

   You are probably thinking that females will treat you like that for the rest of your life anyways. This is true, but the difference is that if you stayed it would be American women, not the European women you will surround yourself with for the rest of your playing career. Don’t worry I hear European basketball is just the same as the NBA. Just imagine, you can be known as the LeBron James of Luxembourg.

   Oh Vander Vander Vander. I will never understand why a twenty one year old kid would leave school prematurely to see if he could make the NBA when he clearly is not talented enough.

   What’s sad is that in five years from now, that incoming freshman class will probably never know your miserable tale. Well maybe you could tell them if you come relive the glory days, lurking outside Dogg Haus. To be honest, I would not be surprised to hear that you did that. 

   Take care man. But before I finish I have a piece of advice for you.

Go to Walgreens to get your passport photo taken. I hear they have great deals on that stuff.

                                                                                                            Sincerely,

                                                                                                                         I Told You So

Have a love for Vander Blue and hate that Nick is bashing him? Leave a comment under the link on Facebook.
Follow Nick on Twitter: @KapN93
Nick hosts The Sports ReKap every Tuesday 3:00-4:30 CT on MarquetteRadio.org with DJ Vogt
Look for more blog posts coming soon. 

A Letter to The Incoming Freshman Class

Dear Incoming Freshmen,

   Welcome! You made it to college. Woohoo. Your parents must be so proud. I bet you think that you are prepared and your college years here at Marquette are going to be a walk in the park. Well that is where you are wrong young lady from some random small town in Wisconsin or wannabe frat bro that says he is from Chicago but is really from Peoria.

    I am about to give you a tutorial on all that you need to know about Marquette University. You may have had one of our fine tour guides lead you around and fill your mind with facts about campus life. They probably did a tremendous job, but they are paid to leave out what you really need to know.

   First off let us start with your dorm selection. If you are living in McCormick, get ready for one hell of a time. If you are someone that enjoys studying long hours on weekends in the comfort of your room, well you might as well transfer out now. If you live in any other dorm, I am sure they are swell, but they are not like McCorms.

   Next, lets dive into partying. “Oh I never party. I just find it wrong and want to keep my body away from the Freshman 15.” Easy there Gandhi. I guarantee you that every single person will party by the end of the year.

   You will be surprised who you see at parties. That quiet, librarian looking girl in your Philosophy class will be going to town on Jungle Juice every weekend. Staying in your dorm room every night will drive you crazy. You will know if you had the “freshman experience” if you can say that you have eaten pizza personally delivered to you by a man named Victor.

    This leads me into my next topic: the city. Milwaukee is definitely not like Chicago, but there are a plethora of activities to partake in. Just consider Water Street your new State Street. Cheese curds will be your best friend and downtown has an array of places to get them. Befriend the first cab driver you meet. This person will become your personal driver. Take his business card and call him whenever you are stranded on the streets of Thrillwaukee.
    In high school you may have used Facebook to play Farmville or whatever kids play nowadays. This is not the case anymore. Facebook is now your new Encyclopedia Britannica. Say you see a person that draws your eye at a party and want to know more about them. Go on Facebook and "research" the living crap out of them. Some say this might be creepy. You tell them to shove it and that you are getting your Albert Einstein on by researching. Anyone who tells you they have never done this is lying to your face.
   Finally, let me give you an overview on what you need to know to be a true Marquette sports fan. I want to make it clear to you now stop saying that Todd Mayo is going to be your “boy” or that you will praise Davante Gardner like he is Buddha. End that fantasy now of you chilling with Derrick Wilson outside Dog House.
   Invest in every Chris Otule item they have at the Spirit Shop. He will become your favorite player on the team. Guys, if you see ladies taking pictures with the ballers at the AMU, that does not mean you can do that too. Do not speak a word about Vander Blue. He is gone and quite frankly should never return to campus.
    Enjoy the basketball games but do not ask “where does Al sit" or "why does Otule wear glasses on the court?” Also, go check out some soccer, volleyball, and lacrosse games.

    Enjoy your freshman year because it will be one of the best years of your life. It will not go as you imagined, but that is the beauty of college. Follow the guidelines I laid out for you and you will have one heck of a year. Lastly, tune in to The Sports ReKap on Marquette Radio hosted by myself and my co-host Dave Vogt. We will continue to tell it like it is, whether you like it or not.

                                                                                               Sincerely,

                                                                                                  Juan Anderson’s number one fan
                                                                                                          Nick “Chach” Kapetan

Breaking Rivalry Lines

      After living in the state of Wisconsin for two years, I have come to admire many facets of this place. The way they are able to mass produce the mouthwatering, heart attack inducing snack that is cheese curds is one. Another would be the assortment of, oh let us just call them “beverages”, to those that thirst for variety. While this may not be shocking, there is a person that resides most of the year in Wisconsin that I have come to adore. No no no it is not that one girl at Marquette that I am happy to openly confess my admiration for (if you are reading this, I have been hitting the gym every other...month, so just be ready come late August). It is actually someone that lives further up north.

     Growing up in the suburbs of Chicago, I have become accustomed to the hatred Bears fans have for everything that has to do with the Packers. Unflattering adjectives always were used to describe Brett Favre. When someone said that they were a Packers fan living in Chicago they were taken out back and beaten with a deep dish pizza.

      I do hate the Packers. When they beat the Bears I am as upset as any other Bears fan around. I was cheering like a little child on Christmas Eve, when the Packers lost last year because of the replacement refs. However there is one player that I have grown fond of and I can label as one of my “man crushes” right beside Bradley Cooper and current White Sox catcher Josh Phegley. This man is Aaron Rodgers. 

    Without saying “but dude he is the (expletive) (expletive) quarterback of the (expletive) Packers bro” ask yourself what Aaron Rodgers has ever done wrong. Sure he showboats a little bit and is a part of terrible law office commercials in Wisconsin, but what else? Unlike the quarterback in Chicago he is not a chach who treats fans like they are garbage.

     Rodgers has won a Super Bowl and continues to make Pro Bowl after Pro Bowl, even if that game does not mean anything anymore. Look up the recent USA Today article where even Mike Ditka calls Rodgers “the best in football”. Bears fans even Ditka likes him. DA COACH loves the guy.  
     Rodgers has the ability to use the plethora of Packers receivers he is provided in a way that brings out each players’ strengths. Yes I know the Bears offensive line has always been terrible in front of Cutler. It is not like Rodgers has had anything close to a solid wall in front of him either. In fact, over the past three years Rodgers has been sacked only .265 times less per game than Cutler. The difference is that Rodgers picks himself up and delivers in the clutch. Cutler is too busy cursing out his coaches, players, officials, and fans.
     I am not saying you have to love the Packers. Go ahead and hate away. Just have respect for one of the best quarterbacks of our generation. I sure cannot hate the guy. Most of my hate is already directed at basketball players anyway.

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Nick hosts The Sports ReKap with DJ Vogt which will start up again this coming September on MarquetteRadio.org

What A Knucklehead

    

     

    How do you say “I told you so” in Spanish? I am sure Vander Blue will be able to tell me in a couple months as his basketball journey has taken the turn for the worse after going undrafted. 

    After declaring months ago that he would forgo his senior season to test the NBA draft waters, Blue finds himself in the same situation as me: without a degree, not associated with an NBA team, and suddenly craving Marquette Gyros. While I do not know the latter for sure, (let’s face it he probably likes Dogg Haus much better) I do know that Blue made the stupidest decision of his life. Sure Blue could latch on to a team in the summer league and make an impact in the NBA. However, the odds of this happening are slim to none. 

    As I watched players from every land in the world get selected last night, I felt a burning feeling in my stomach. (it could not have been the ten piece chicken nuggets I had earlier because I already took TUMS for that)

    It was anger over Blue's decision to leave the greatest opportunity Marquette has had to win in years. Everything was set up for Marquette to have a break out year with the best recruiting class in school history coming in. Players like Davante Gardner and Jamil Wilson were coming into their own which would have been excellent compliments to Blue. 

   Why leave a school that has been nothing but great to you to pursue a career in Croatia or Poland? Why throw away an opportunity to improve your leadership skills and lead your school to the promise land all to not hear your name called on draft day? I have not spoken to Vander and I do not plan on ever sitting down with him, but let me give you my opinion on why he did it (it is very simple really).

   The thought process behind his decision can be broken down to one word: GREED. You may be asking yourself “Nick you are just a hater who dislikes all the basketball players because freshmen women adore them and not you”. Yes this is true. I am jealous of the basketball players' ability to be more appealing to women than hot cookie night. While I do envy the “ballers”, I am also a realist.

   Blue saw the opportunity to make a few million and jumped at the chance. He thought he could capitalize on an above average junior campaign. Instead of tuning up his shooting deficiencies, Blue thought he could just transition to the point guard position like the process was a walk in the park. Would I do the same? Hell no. Why not you ask: because I would want to finish what I started. 

    I would have wanted to lead Marquette to the championship. I would have wanted to be known as “the guy” on campus. I would have known that having a stellar senior year would have laminated myself as a sure fire draft pick. But, I am just a below average athlete that will never get to make the decision Vander did. 

    Oh well life goes on. I will still get to enjoy stuffing my face with cheese curds while Vander explores interesting food choices in places like Albania and Finland. Best of luck to you Van, I hope you have your passport updated.

Follow Nick on Twitter @KapN93

Nick Kapetan hosts The Sports ReKap on MarquetteRadio.org along with DJ Vogt.

The Sports ReKap will start airing again in late August

Check back to see more blog updates throughout the summer

Just One of Us

     The Sports ReKap is starting a new series where we catch up with a former or current professional athlete to give you a glimpse into their life.  I sat down recently with former White Sox outfielder Michael Huff.

    After going to school in what is technically deemed the North Shore, the northwest suburbs of Chicago, I struggle to imagine many people coming from the area and making an impact in the professional sporting world. There are an immense number of players who come and live in the fancy residences the North Shore provides, but few home grown individuals make a name for themselves in sports. Former major league baseball player Michael Huff is the exception. 

    Huff, who attended New Trier East and Northwestern University in Evanston, came from these parts and has had a lasting impact on the sports scene in the Chicagoland area, even after the end of his career.    

   Michael Huff may not be a household for most of the readers of this blog. In his three years with the White Sox, Huff played in one hundred and fifty four games while striving as a defensive replacement as well as a pinch hitter and runner. He was a part of the 1993 American League West Champion White Sox as a key asset coming off the bench. 

   While his contributions on the field may be overlooked, his work since retirement stands out. Huff, the Vice President of Sports for the Bulls-White Sox Academy, takes pride in teaching kids, no matter their talent level, to be active instead of just playing video games. Just like any former ball player who teaches kids, Huff preaches that “the fundamentals, especially balance” is key. 

    The number of responsibilities Huff has would take up an entire business card. He oversees the fast pitch, baseball, and basketball department as well as the planning of special events, to just name a few. 

    Along with his work at the Academy, Huff fills in for White Sox broadcasts from time to time. After sitting down with Huff, two observations stood out to me: he knows what he is talking about and being a professional athlete has not affected who he is as a person.  

    As a baseball nerd, I jump at any opportunity to talk about the game with someone, especially a former major league baseball player. Huff quickly pointed out to me that the White Sox struggles so far this year can be attributed to the “offense in general” and the defense. In a way that made it seem like I was listening to him give his analysis during a game, Huff commented on how the Sox meager defense “puts an extra strain on pitchers.”

    Our conversation quickly shifted to his time in the majors as he described his first plate appearance against Tom Glavine which resulted in a base hit. Huff, who also played for the Dodgers, Indians, and Blue Jays, has countless stories to tell about his time in the big leagues. The former ballplayer spoke about his favorite teammates including “John Olerud, Chuck Nagy, and Robin Ventura.” He also describes the excitement of being a part of the 1993 postseason chase. 

    I am taken aback by the stories Huff has about his time living out most young boys' dreams. While Huff could have puffed his chest out and acted as if I was sitting in the presence of greatness, his down to earth personality was welcoming. 

   We discussed the famous New Trier-Loyola rivalry and how, after he scored a touchdown in a football game between the schools, lifted the football over his head in a celebratory fashion. Just like most individuals who attended either school, he enjoyed the rivalry and wanted to perform to his highest capability during the match-ups. 

    As I searched for the source of his humbleness, I discovered it when Huff began talking about his family and his time at Northwestern University. Huff preached the importance of having not a lot of “unused time and surrounding yourself with the right people.” Preaching this message, which teenagers now a day hear embedded in rap lyrics, Huff has the view on life needed to teach those that are the future of America.

    He never expected that he could make the majors when he was at Northwestern playing with the great Joe Girardi , but he worked hard both on the baseball field and in the classroom (he received a degree in computer science and industrial engineering). Through events out of his control (his sister was diagnosed with leukemia and his own personal injuries) he faced hardship but was able to have a seven year MLB career playing with the likes of Frank Thomas and Carlton Fisk. Huff shows that people from the North Shore can make an impact in professional sports by possessing the right mindset and caring about more than just oneself.

To find out more about Michael Huff and the Bulls-Sox Academy please visit their website http://www.bullssoxacademy.com/

Follow Nick on Twitter @KapN93

Have a suggestion on who The Sports ReKap should reach out to next, please comment below

It's What The Cool Kids Are Doing

   

     Here is a test for all Blackhawks fans out there: name three, make it one, Hawks player from before 2007. Take a minute. Anyone? Eric Daze? Tony Amonte? Nikolai Khabibulin?

     I am not trying to practice for an audition with the show Stump the Schwab or attempting to impress lovers of sports nerds. My goal is to point out a problem that plagues the sporting world. This issue currently infests the hockey scene in the Chicagoland area. The problem I speak of are bandwagon fans springing up like weeds. 

    So called Blackhawks fans have come out of nowhere to support “their” team. Hockey sweaters of Kane, Toews, and Hossa have become a fashion fad like sperrys or Oakleys. That is just what being a Hawks fan has become: a fad. 

    Ask most Hawks fans why they cheer for the team and if they answered you honestly they would say “Cause it’s what everyone else is doing.” If you rooted for the Hawks in the early 2000's you were looked at like a homeless man preaching random bible passages on the street corner. Now if you don’t root for the boys in red, and you live in the Chicago area, you are a cast-off. 

    True, there are die-hard fans out there that have been through the days when the Hawks were not on television. I tip my cap to them and pat them on the back. However before the year that ended with Toews grabbing the Cup from goblin Gary Bettman, the United Center would be half-filled for Hawks games. The most popular hockey team in Chicago was the Wolves of the AHL located in remote Rosemont.

    I want the Blackhawks to win another cup; I truly do. Seeing the Madhouse on Madison rocking is a tremendous sight for a city whose baseball teams are struggling right now. Still,the springing up of these fans only after success, casts a negative light on Chicago sports fans. 

   Most fans of the Blackhawks are now the prime example of bandwagon fans. I am not the only one who thinks this. Ask Red Wings fans, Blues fans, or any other fans in hockey. 

    I do not expect this to change any time soon. I do want to get the word out though that if you are a Hawks fan, stick with the squad through thick and thin. If they struggle next year, still pack the UC. Educate yourselves about the non-mainstream players like Sheldon Brookbank and Nick Leddy. Enjoy these winning seasons Hawks fans; we wished we could sniff this success when Jocelyn Thibault was between the pipes. 

   While you guys watch the Hawks throughout the rest of the playoffs, I’ll be enjoying deserted White Sox games. Anyone want to join that bandwagon? Didn’t think so. 

Follow Nick on Twitter @KapN93

The Sports ReKap will begin airing again on MarquetteRadio.org at the end of August

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Bringing Us Back to the Good Old Days

                            

     For a brief second last night, a king was dethroned. The reaction to the simple shove that briefly put LeBron James on his keister, symbolizes the disgust people have for the direction the NBA is heading.     

    Yesterday Chicago Bulls big man Nazr Mohammed pushed the divine James during a second round playoff battle at the United Center. After a technical foul was assessed to James after his brush with Mohammed, Nazr took out his frustration through action.

    The aftermath has caused quite a stir on ESPN and social media. Mohammed has received death threats from LBJ backers and marriage proposals from Bulls enthusiasts. This is not a surprise. Die-hard fans will stick by their players through thick and thin. What caught my attention was the reaction of those considered “casual” NBA fans. 

    Over the years, my interest in the NBA has subsided. A game where defense won championships has turned that aspect of the sport into a joke. Players labeled as “defensive specialists” carry the stigma that they do not belong. Flashy dunks land players on highlight reels, which it seems is all superstars care about. (Ask the Clippers how that mentality worked out for them)

    Nowadays,  I would label myself as a casual observer of a once promising league. My initial reaction to what happened to LeBron during the Madhouse Malay was “take a seat you chach” because as much as I hate the NBA, I hate everything James stands for. 

    Kids line up in droves to buy his jersey and referees provide him with every opportunity to flaunt his talents without obstacles. He controls the league and the media. Major networks flock to cover what he ate for breakfast or whether he will practice for thirty minutes rather than forty minutes before a game.

    Still there are fans and players that are fed up with James as well as the majority of other superstars in the league. The special treatment they receive tarnishes the purity of the game. Good riddance that Mohammed stood up for himself, other non-superstars, and fans that are tired with the new NBA. Someone needed to literally push LeBron off his high horse for a moment. 

    This is not an attempt to stir up a Jordan-James debate. Jordan loved the spotlight just as much as James does, and received the benefit of the doubt quite too often. Former Utah Jazz guard Byron Russell would be the first one to back up that claim. I want to acknowledge overlooked All-Stars like Tim Duncan and Kevin Love as well as Hall of Famers like John Stockton. Guys that went about their business in a professional manner and put their team first. 

    James and the superstars of today have attracted a novel following to the sport. However, fans of yesteryear desired a nanosecond that would bring us back to the good old days when the name on the front meant more than the name on the back. Those were the days when players were not kings on the court, and divas off it.

Follow Nick Kapetan on Twitter: @KapN93

The Sports ReKap will start to air again next August on MarquetteRadio.org

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Last Minute Packers Draft Coverage

Biggest Needs (in no particular order)

Defensive Line- Well, this position has Ted Thompson written all over it. Hmm.. has he ever drafted DL in the draft? The answer. Try almost every year with multiple picks, which makes this one a no brainer because of ongoing struggles. If you don't agree then look up a recap from the the playoff game against San Francisco. They need to find a guy who can stop the run and they need to get him in the early rounds. 

Running Back- I hate this one. Do they really need a running back? The problem I have with running back is that I don't see a sleeper like Alfred Morris in this draft. I certainly don't think Green Bay should burn their first round pick on this one either. The Packers have seen some solid production out of Dejuan Harris recently and lets be honest, if Cedric Benson returns..he will be wearing Green and Gold again being paid the league minimum. Overall, I feel the Pack has plenty of options with so many RB's on their roster.

Cornerback/Safety- The Packers chose not to bring back Charles Woodson, but they still need to fill the role and bringing in young talent is the best way to do that.

Offensive Line- Green Bay allowed the most amount of sacks last season. Don't be to frightened by this fact because they also throw a lot more than the majority of the league. However, it is still a problem and the loss of six-time pro bowler, Jeff Saturday, loses a lot of leadership and depth. Look for the Pack to pick a OL with there third or fourth pick.

Overall Thoughts- This could be an ideal draft for Green Bay. They have plenty of needs to acquire, as does every team. With eight picks in the draft and a lot of quality players in the positions they need, the Packers have the opportunity to be very flexible.

Who will they pick first?- My guess is that they go with the best available. That is simply how Ted Thompson makes his decisions. It is also the reason that the Packers are year after year among one of the best teams in the NFL. Do you think Thompson had it planned out that he was going to pick Aaron Rodgers at 24 overall? Of course not! All you cheese heads need to respect the unpredictable man. If you were a fan of any other team,  you would realize how darn good of a GM you have.

Therefore, here is my projected picks at the 26 selection. Keep in mind that this is based on my thoughts of who will be picked before Green Bay is on the clock.

FS John Cyprien College: FIU 

FS Matt Elam College: Florida

DT Sylvester Williams College: North Carolina

DT Jesse Williams College: Alabama

RB Eddie Lacy (not sold on this but if he is the best available) College: Alabama

Packers Sleeper Pick- RB Marcus Lattimore College: South Carolina. This guy is the real deal. Sorry, what I meant to say is that he used to be the real deal. And then the terrifying knee injury happened. Green Bay has eight selections so they have the ability to take a risk with Lattimore in a later round.

Finally- who I actually go with if I am the Packers. NOBODY! There is going to be a ton of teams who want to trade for that pick. They could work out great for Green Bay if they consider some offers.

Bold Prediction of the Draft

The Chiefs take Eric Fisher instead of Luke Joeckel. Keep in mind no one outside of the public and media cares about where the kid went to college. The main difference between Fisher and Joeckel is that Joeckel played in the SEC and blocked for Johnny Football. Eric Fisher went to Central Michigan. Plus I know how Kansas City is and they would be the one to shock the world with their pick rather it be a good thing or bad thing.

The other thing I see happening is that they trade the first pick because of the high interest teams will have in Joeckel. I am not saying I want these things to happen. In fact as a Chiefs fan, I would like to see them draft a guy that can give Alex Smith time in the pocket. At the end of the day it is not my decision and these are just the things I could see occurring.

He Gone

                                  
 
    Another day, another Marquette University basketball player leaving. This time it was Vander Blue who has foregone his senior season to enter the NBA draft. 

    The buzz around campus has been whether or not this was the right move. While none of us are Vander Blue, we all have an opinion on if this was a logical choice. Well place me in the “What in the world are you doing Vander” category. 

    From a purely untainted perspective this move was not the best Blue could have made. He could have returned for his final year to be a part of one of the deepest teams in Marquette history. Blue could have risen his stock value even more by continuing to showcase his athleticism while tutoring the plethora of fresh faces that will be on the squad next season. Vander could have fine-tuned his average jump shot and added more bulk to fill out his frame. Of course these are what could have been instead of what actually will happen. 

    Blue has decided to do what is best for him personally rather than what is superior for the program, which may be his downfall. 

    Vander Blue, as of April 16^th, 2013 is not an NBA type player. He is too small to have a specific position, or even play a particular role on an NBA team. One year removed from a season that can be labeled as average (8.4 PPG), Blue still lacks a consistent perimeter shot. Yes, Vander is one of the most athletic guards in the draft. His scoring has risen significantly this season (14.8 PPG). Blue’s defense caused havoc for opposing teams all season long. However, he is still a work in progress. 

    Buzz attempted to convince him to stay but to now avail. Here is the problem. Vander Blue seems to be a guy that was just waiting to have one year of above average play. 

    He was a one and done in the making when he arrived on Marquette’s campus three years ago. After two years of not living up to expectations he shined on the big stage that is March Madness. One cannot blame a guy for chasing his dreams, but this announcement was a rush to judgment. An attempt to take advantage of a weak draft class. 

    This move is similar to Blue’s mindset when he was on the court his first two years at this school. The ball starts rolling his way so he makes a decision based on this temporary confidence. A baffling judgment, but not surprising. Good luck to Vander with his basketball career wherever it may take him. He should make sure he is stocked up on Rosetta Stone, you know just in case his journey lands him to Europe.

Follow Nick Kapetan on Twitter @KapN93

Tune in to The Sports ReKap Fridays 6:30-8PM CT on MarquetteRadio.org

Telling Him Where to Put His Money

 

 
    A refreshing occurrence transpired on Thursday night in San Diego, California. What happened needed to take place whether people think so or not. It was necessary for someone to take a stand against the changing landscape in sports, and Carlos Quentin rose to the occasion.

    The incident arose in an early season matchup between the high spending Los Angeles Dodgers and the financially strapped San Diego Padres. The Dodgers had their prize off-season signing Zack Greinke on the bump. In the sixth inning, with the Dodgers up by one run, Greinke hit Quentin with an 89 mile per hour pitch. Greinke’s fastball usually touches higher than that on the radar gun, especially on an out pitch with a 3-2 count.

    A benches clearing brawl ensued after Quentin rushed the mound like a middle linebacker hunting down a running back. At first glance this did not appear to be a headline story. However, once you consider the main characters in the narrative and the ill effects of the brawl, one realizes why this drew attention.

    First let us go back to 2009. The Chicago White Sox and Kansas City Royals are playing in an anything but pivotal midseason contest. Greinke, on the Royals, drills Quentin with a pitch. Quentin walked towards the mound, they exchange words, but that is the end of it. 

    In present time, it is difficult to remember that incident. Only one obsessed with one of those teams (guilty as charged) would remember such a non-prominent moment. 

    Fast-forward four years. Tensions between the two have not subsided. But why would the mainstream media pick up on the repercussion of something that took place four years ago? Well glance no further than the man on the mound and the name on the front of the jersey.

    When Zack Greinke signed his eye-opening six year one hundred and fifty nine million dollar contract with the Dodgers, he catapulted himself into an elite group. Let us label this illustrious assemblance of individuals as the sports’ version of “A-list” celebrities. Due to their mammoth salary, they become greater than the majority. 

    Calls get made for them. People overlook their flaws. Most importantly, if one were to be involved in a scuffle, every one else would run to his or her corner. 

    Do not believe me? Take a gander at the history of the national sports coverage of particular events on television. Kirk Hinrich became a villain for bear-hugging LeBron James to the ground. Dahntay Jones received hate messages for injuring the beloved Kobe Bryant. Tom Brady has a rule named after him following a season ending injury caused by a hit below the waist. 

    However, all of these instances are different than the Quentin-Greinke saga. None of the other incidents featured two individuals who had prior history. 

    This case was different. Quentin knew what he was doing and the repercussions he would face for his actions. Most media outlets labeled him as a monster for running into Greinke and causing him to be out for up to eight weeks with a broken left collarbone. 

    If it was a pitcher with a smaller paycheck, Quentin’s head would still be called for, but not at this extreme of a level. Quentin continues to receive an enormous amount of blame because he injured the Dodgers’ prime gem. I however, applaud him for what he did.

    Do I condone fighting? No. Did I want to see Greinke taken down to the ground causing injury? Absolutely not. But we should all at least pat Quentin on the back. 

    He took out a personal grudge when the unwritten rules of the hierarchy of sports would not allow it. Players are taught to not attack those with the largest bank accounts. He did it anyway. 

    Players on teams like the Padres, or those at the bottom of popularity, are not permitted to cause havoc to an individual on a media loving team like the Dodgers. He did it anyway. 

    When there is a fight between men, one should not take sides based on salary. Recognize that Greinke was in part responsible. Quentin stood up for what he believed was right.

    He broke through a wall, which stands around particular athletes, that was created by the media. For this he does not deserve to be chastised, but given respect.

Follow Nick Kapetan on Twitter @KapN93

Tune in to @TheSportsReKap on Fridays from 6:30-8 PM CT on MarquetteRadio.org