Lom Henn

Just the Facts, Ma'am

noreply@blogger.com (Zinglebert Bembledack) — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 14:38:00 +0000

Holy shit! Two posts in two days!

I hate when life gets in the way. I've had many ideas over the past few months that I really wanted to write about, I just have not had the time and opportunity to do it. Hopefully, with the change of seasons will come a change in my ability to actually post.

Today's post brings us back to our favorite whipping-boy, Bobby Kravitz. Bob's article today was on Butler's victory last night in the championship game of the Horizon League and how they deserve a higher seeding than the NCAA Selection Committee has typically given them the past few years.

The article itself is really not that bad. It is just that Bob's laziness has once again crept into his work. One of the first rules of journalism is to check the facts. Bob has a repetitive glitch in his system that seems to prevent him from either looking up or reviewing facts in his articles.

Today's example:

They have the country's best road record 12-0 (1-2 on neutral courts).

Butler is now 28-4 on the season. They went undefeated at home going 15-0 for the season. Let's do the math Bob-style, shall we?

Home 15-0

Away 12-0

Neutral 1-2

Total 28-2

So, Bob, where did the other two losses come from?

And Bob, didn't Butler lose to UAB on the road?!? Forgot that one, huh? I think everyone who follows basketball in Indiana could have told you that.

Fucktard!

I might have been able to forgive the missing neutral court loss. That could have been from a typo. Except, again, simple math should have told you that if a teams has four losses, you should account for all of those losses!

How FUCKING hard is it to pull up the Butler page on ESPN.com to verify your information? It took me all of 20 seconds to find Butler's schedule on ESPN.com. I could immediately tell you that they went 15-0 at home, 12-1 on the road and 1-3 on neutral courts.

Double Fucking Lazy Fuckatard!!!!

Get off your GD ass, open a browser and actually look something up for a change, will ya!

Come on, Streebeck. Let's go track down some more villainous writers...

It Still Might As Well Be In Black And White

noreply@blogger.com (Slut Bunwalla) — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 03:15:00 +0000

Let me see if I get this straight.

ESPN spends $1000000000000000000000000000 covering every sport. They send 34 air personalities to do the pregame of "Monday Night Football." They have been on the cutting edge of sports broadcasting technology for a long time.

Yet--a college basketball conference championship game involving a top-12 team is not worthy of broadcasting in HD. Not that this is a new issue, but seriously? In 2010? I mean, I'm not talking about ESPN-8, "The Ocho," but the main fucking channel. The big one.

For the love of fuck, the commercials are even in HD, just not the game. Thank you, ESPN, for confirming that you have as little respect for the mid-major conferences as the NCAA selection committee.

(Of course, ESPN touts "Championship Week" and hypes having all the conference tournament games, but only shows BCS-conference games in HD.)

Fucktards.

And yes, we will be back soon. We haven't given up on you yet.

NFL Playoffs: Championship Games

noreply@blogger.com (Zinglebert Bembledack) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 18:40:00 +0000

Now you know why I typically leave this to the others here at LomHenn.com to pick the games. Last week I went a whopping 1-3 against the spread, getting only the Colts-Ravens pick correct. Granted, most people did not expect the Chargers to go down to the Jets and I really expected a better game out the Cardinals against the Saints. I should have known better than to pick the Cowboys last week, what the fuck was I thinking...

Anyhoo, we are down to the final four teams left standing. The four teams remaining have a combined three Super Bowl wins between them. The Colts have two, one in Baltimore and one in Indy while the Jets have their infamous win over the Colts in SB III. The Vikings have been four times and struck out each time, but so have the Buffalo Bills, so at least they are not alone in their sucking in the big game. And poor old New Orleans Saints, the perennial doormats for so long finally have a chance to make it to the big one.

You have three of the top quarterbacks currently in the NFL playing on Sunday in Manning, Favre and Brees, along with the Cinderella rookie Mark Sanchez. When you look at this weekend's matchup, it does kind of look like a NCAA final four pairing. You have two number one seeds (Indy and New Orleans), a number two seed (Minnesota) and the George Mason of the group (NY Jets). Something tells me that this Cinderella team will meet the same fate as George Mason did.

So here we go!

Game #1 - NY Jets at Indianapolis Colts (-7.5)

The Colts gave up their pursuit of a perfect season to rest injured players and strive for their ultimate goal, the Super Bowl. While I would have preferred the Colts to have tried a bit harder to achieve this feat, I cannot begrudge them for keeping their sights set on their original goal. The Colts choice to ease their foot of the pedal the final two weeks resulted in the Jets reviving their playoff hopes. With the help of two gimme games to end the season they made the playoffs as the #6 seed. The Jets defense has shown why they are the #1 defense the past two weeks in defeating the Bengals and Chargers. It also helps that the kickers for both teams sucked ass on their field goal attempts going 0-5 in both games.

Granted, I am a Colts fan, but I had a feeling after the Jets beat the Chargers that the Colts will have this game and make a return trip to Miami. I've had the feeling all week and it is getting stronger the closer we get to game time. I personally would have preferred to play the Chargers this weekend and get the monkey off our backs like we did against New England three years ago. The Colts starters who were taken out of the Jets game and were forced to watch the backups implode now want some payback.

The clock is about to strike midnight for this Cinderella. Go with the Colts (-7.5)!!!!

Game #2 - Minnesota Vikings at New Orleans Saints (-3.5)

It is hard to believe that the Superdome has never, ever hosted a NFC Championship game until now. It is hard to believe that the NFL keeps letting Brett Favre un-retire every fucking year, it seems.

Both of these teams high a high-powered offense and while the Colts-Jets game will probably be a slugfest, this game should be a shoot-out of epic proportions. Both the Vikings and Saints won their games by 31 points last week. Drew Brees has blossomed in New Orleans and is poised to take the Saints to their first ever Super Bowl. Brett Farve is the old man making one final push for another ring.

This one is tough to call, but I'm looking forward to a Colts-Saints Super Bowl in Miami. Go Saints (-3.5).

Possible upcoming Super Bowl topics?

Will the Saints get their first Super Bowl?
Will Jim Caldwell win a Super Bowl as a rookie coach and become the third black coach to win a Super Bowl?
How low of a spread will a Colts-Saints Super Bowl have? Could we have the first pick 'em Super Bowl?
Will Brett Favre retire again? And if so, will we have another episode of Ishtar the Series come next season?

These and much more here on LomHenn.com.

NFL Playoffs: Division Games

noreply@blogger.com (Zinglebert Bembledack) — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 19:27:00 +0000

Since O'Hoolix has gone to the super secret mascot training grounds and will be incommunicado for the next few months, I will continue O'Hoolix's pursuit to provide our loyal readers with valuable betting knowledge. I shall strive to prove why O'Hoolix does this and I do not.

After last weekend's snoozefest for the NFL Wild Card games, hopefully this weekend will prove to be much more entertaining. It should be for Colts fans this weekend, since (a) the Colts are playing and (b) if the Colts should happen to lose, the angry mob with torches and pitchforks will be marching on the Colts Complex on West 56th Street shortly after the game.

Now on to the picks!

Game 1 - Arizona (+7) vs. New Orleans

The Jekyll and Hyde Cardinals are an enigma once again in the playoffs this year. They were once again better on the road (6-2) than at home (4-4) like last year. They got obliterated in a game at the end of season, GB this year and NE last year. Yet turned it around last week to beat GB at home. This week the Cards go into the Super Dome to face the Saints, who stumbled into the playoffs after starting the season 13-0. Unlike the Colts who turned their dial back from "11" and rested players, the Saints seemed to flame-out. The big question is can the Saints turn it back on or will they pull a Colts-like one-and-done?

I going to with Arizona (+7) to cover, but the Saints will squeak this one out 34-31.

Game 2 - Baltimore vs. Indianapolis (-6)

Baltimore roughed up the Patriots last week and look to get even for a 17-15 loss earlier this season. The Colts look to prove they can have a playoff bye week and not choke on it. The game will come down to weather the Colts rushing offense can be good enough to keep the Raven D honest and open things up for Peyton Manning and his receivers. Pierre Garcon returns to the lineup and will be the wild card for the game. Wayne will receive the most attention and Clark will garner some priority as well. That should leave Garcon will plenty of one-on-one coverage and Manning will love to exploit that. I would love to see the Colts storm out to a big lead, because Joe Flacco will have difficulty if he is forced to become a passing heavy offense.

Look for the Colts to pull away late and late interception by Gary Brackett will seal the game for Colts. Colts 24-14 over the Ravens.

Game 3 - Dallas (+2.5) vs. Minnesota

Like the Saints, the Vikings seemed to trip up at the end of the season and only ended up with the #2 seed in the NFC thanks to the drubbing the Eagles received in Week #17 by the Cowboys. The Cowboys on the other hand ended their atrocious December fades and bombs by going 3-1 and overtaking the Eagles to win the NFC East Division. As much as I might prefer a Farve-Manning Super Bowl pairing, I thinks Dallas is the hot team and will run down the Vikings 38-21 behind Tony Romo's 3 TD passes.

Game 4 - New York Jets vs. San Diego (-6)

The Jets surprised most of the pundits by beating up the Bengals two weeks in a row. The Jets may have the #1 defense, but they will not be able to handle Phillip Rivers this week. Rivers will be able to pick apart the Jets secondary and minimize Darrelle Revis impact on the Chargers' receivers. Mark Sanchez was good enough against the Bengals to win his first playoff game as a rookie. His second game will not be as kind. The wheels are about to come off for the Jets' QB. Sanchez will throw three picks and lose a fumble to the Chargers' stifling D. The Chargers will be heading to Indy next week behind a 35-14 thumping of the Jets.

So to sum up:

Arizona +7
Indianapolis -6
Cowboys +2.5
Chargers -6

Coming up next week:

- Will the Colts get the Charger-monkey off their backs in the AFC Championship game similar to the Championship game against the Patriots back in 2007?

- Will the Saints be able to get to their first Super Bowl?

All this and more (hopefully) next week at LomHenn.com. Good luck!

A Bientot

noreply@blogger.com (F.S. O'Hoolix) — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 02:18:00 +0000

Week 1: 6-5
Week 2: 7-3
Week 3: 3-4
Week 4: 2-4
Week 5: 5-4
Week 6: 3-4
Week 7: 2-7
Week 8: 3-4
Week 9: 5-4
Week 10:6-3
Week 11:5-4
Week 12:4-8
Week 13:6-4
Week 14:7-6
Week 15:5-4-2
Week 16 5-6-1

Total:74-74-3

"a bientot" is French for "see you later" or "so long", O'Hoolix is signing off for several months as of today. Due to personal issues and upcoming work related time away O'Hoolix is leaving his .500 record for the 2009 NFL season intact. I would like to wish everyone a healthy, prosperous and happy 2010. O'Hoolix is down, but will be back, God Bless and take care.

NFL Week 16

noreply@blogger.com (F.S. O'Hoolix) — Sat, 26 Dec 2009 18:54:00 +0000

Week 1: 6-5
Week 2: 7-3
Week 3: 3-4
Week 4: 2-4
Week 5: 5-4
Week 6: 3-4
Week 7: 2-7
Week 8: 3-4
Week 9: 5-4
Week 10:6-3
Week 11:5-4
Week 12:4-8
Week 13:6-4
Week 14:7-6
Week 15:5-4-2

Total:69-68-2

The NFL season is winding down and O'Hoolix is looking to get into the profitability zone. The Furry Space Alien would like to wish everyone a merry, cash filled holiday. Now on to the picks:

RAIDERS +3
RAIDERS/BROWNS UND 37.5
FALCONS -9
BILLS/FALCONS UND 41.5
MIAMI -3
GIANTS -8
PACKERS/SEAHAWKS UND 41.5
RAVENS +3
EAGLES -7
COLTS -5
DALAS -7
BEARS +7

GOOD LUCK ALL!

NFL Week 15

noreply@blogger.com (F.S. O'Hoolix) — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 20:15:00 +0000

Week 1: 6-5
Week 2: 7-3
Week 3: 3-4
Week 4: 2-4
Week 5: 5-4
Week 6: 3-4
Week 7: 2-7
Week 8: 3-4
Week 9: 5-4
Week 10:6-3
Week 11:5-4
Week 12:4-8
Week 13:6-4
Week 14:7-6

Total:64-64

Glad to see a regular post on Lom Henn as well as my gaming posts. O'Hoolix will finish out the regular season and a week or two of the playoffs, then unfortunately the furry space alien will be at an underground training facility for anti-terrorist space aliens for a few months.

On to the picks, I have climbed back to .500 and now its time to push ahead for the stretch run.

COWBOYS +7.5: Should be able to control time of posession.
DOLPHINS +3
BILLS +7: Buffalo playing better of late and NE is not.
BROWNS +2: Wrong team might be favored here.
CARDS/LIONS und 47: Can the Lions score more than 17?
BENGALS +7: For a team that has beaten Baltimore and Pittsburg twice don't think they are getting enough respect here.
STEELERS -2.5: Love the pack, but not on the road.
EAGLES -7: Don't think 49'ers can score enough here.
BEARS +11: Asking the Ravens to cover an 11 point spread here is too much.
PANTHERS +9: Vikings are not the same team on the road.
SKINS/GIANTS und 43.5

Good Luck All!

Really, an actual post!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Zinglebert Bembledack) — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 20:35:00 +0000

Yes, it does seem like every one except O'Hoolix had dropped off the face of the Internet. Work and life catches up with us sometimes and it is hard to find the time or the energy to do something that is more than a hobby but less than a job. We'd love to get paid to do this but we just have not been able to find any one stupid enough to sponsor us yet.

Thanks to O'Hoolix for keeping us going. I think my last post was back in what, July? Anyways, my early New Year's resolution is to devote more time to our site.

Normally I try not to pick on just a section of a story...unless it really deserves it. And this story deserves it. Overall the story is fine. I enjoy just about any story about a Colts victory. Just gets the facts straight, will ya!

"Garrard was 23 of 40 for 223 yards and three touchdowns. Maurice Jones-Drew ran 27 times for 110 yards and a score, and caught five passes for 30 yards and a touchdown. But once the Jaguars got behind and abandoned the running game, they had trouble sustaining drives."

The Jaguars scored on five of their first six drives and the one they did not score on was a missed FG (thanks again, Steve Perry). The Jags were up 31-28 when they took their final lead. From that point on they went punt-punt-punt-interception. The Colts went punt-TD-punt-kneel downs. Therefore, the Jags actually had the lead MORON. And really, they did not necessarily abandon the run.

On the possession after the Colts TD, the Jags ran the ball twice on first downs, but Maurice Jones-Drew only ran for 3 and 2 yards, respectively. David Garrard was passing the ball pretty well. The illegal formation penalty was the killer on the drive. Instead of a 19-yard gain and a first down, it became 2nd-and-13 and the Jags were forced to pass twice resulting in an incomplete pass and a sack. After the Jags forced the Colts to punt just before the two-minute warning, you have to abandon the run with only one timeout and the two-minute warning.

The Colts defense also seemed to step it up in the fourth quarter, so Jones-Drew was not as effective either after that point. In the second half, Jones-Drew had only 39 yards in 13 carries, a 3.0 YPC average. He had 71 yards in the first half.

So congrats to the Colts on going 14-0! We see about a discussion on whether the Colts should shoot for 16-0. Let's see if those of us at LomHenn.com can string together our own streak of posts.

[From somewhere across town I hear Slut yelling, "No bet!"]

Time to go digging through some old Bob Kravitz posts. I know there is at least one we need to post...

NFL Week 14

noreply@blogger.com (F.S. O'Hoolix) — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 22:51:00 +0000

Week 1: 6-5
Week 2: 7-3
Week 3: 3-4
Week 4: 2-4
Week 5: 5-4
Week 6: 3-4
Week 7: 2-7
Week 8: 3-4
Week 9: 5-4
Week 10:6-3
Week 11:5-4
Week 12:4-8
Week 13:6-4
Total: 57-58

Week 14 should feature many cold weather bouts, which the furry space alien loves. This is real football time, O'Hoolix loathes domes, warm weather football, astroturf and stadiums without bands or organs! Well, on to the winners.

BENGALS +6.5
JETS -3 (2X BET)
FALCONS +10
RAVENS -13.5
RAVENS/LIONS UNDER 39.5
DOLPHINS +2
RAMS +13
SKINS -1
SKINS/RAIDER UND 37.5
COWBOYS -3
EAGLES PK
CARDS -3.5

GOOD LUCK ALL!

NFL Week 13

noreply@blogger.com (F.S. O'Hoolix) — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 21:26:00 +0000

Week 1: 6-5
Week 2: 7-3
Week 3: 3-4
Week 4: 2-4
Week 5: 5-4
Week 6: 3-4
Week 7: 2-7
Week 8: 3-4
Week 9: 5-4
Week 10:6-3
Week 11:5-4
Week 12:4-8
Total: 51-54

O'Hoolix took a header last week, but I am up and firing away again. Good Luck this week.

TEXAS PK
BRONCOS -5
EAGLES -5
RAMS +8.5
DOLPHINS +4.5
DOLPHINS/PATS ovr 45.5
CHARGERS/BROWNS ovr 42.
COOWBOYS -2.5
PACKERS -3
49'ERS PK

NFL Week 12

noreply@blogger.com (F.S. O'Hoolix) — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 01:55:00 +0000

Week 1: 6-5
Week 2: 7-3
Week 3: 3-4
Week 4: 2-4
Week 5: 5-4
Week 6: 3-4
Week 7: 2-7
Week 8: 3-4
Week 9: 5-4
Week 10:6-3
Week 11:5-4
Total: 47-46

Here are the early picks for week 12. Enjoy your Holidays.

LIONS +11.5
PACK/LIONS und 47.5
GIANTS -6.5
GIANTS/BRONCOS ov 42.5

JETS -3.5
DOLPHINS -3.0
JAGS +3.0
CLE/CIN UND 39.5
MINN -10
KC +13.5
WAS/PHI UND 40.5

GOOD LUCK!

O'Hoolix

NFL WEEK 11

noreply@blogger.com (F.S. O'Hoolix) — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 02:30:00 +0000

Week 1: 6-5
Week 2: 7-3
Week 3: 3-4
Week 4: 2-4
Week 5: 5-4
Week 6: 3-4
Week 7: 2-7
Week 8: 3-4
Week 9: 5-4
Week 10:6-3
Total: 42-42

O'Hoolix had a winning week bringing him back to .500 for the season. Again, lack of time for your favorite space alien denies the paying public of write-ups for each game, O'Hoolix knows you want write ups, but he knows you want winners more!

COLTS PK
STEELERS -10
SEAHAWKS +10.5
LIONS/BROWNS und 38.5
BILLS +8.5
FALCONS +6.5
CARS/RAMS UND 47
SAINTS -11.5
JETS +10.5

GOOD LUCK ALL!

NFL Week 10

noreply@blogger.com (F.S. O'Hoolix) — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 01:44:00 +0000

Week 1: 6-5
Week 2: 7-3
Week 3: 3-4
Week 4: 2-4
Week 5: 5-4
Week 6: 3-4
Week 7: 2-7
Week 8: 3-4
Week 9: 5-4
Total: 36-39

O'Hoolix gets back to his winning ways last week and looks to continue it this week. Unofortunately no time again for write ups this week.

BRONCOS -3.5
JAGS/JETS und 40.5
BENGALS +7
BENGALS/STEELERS und 40.5
VIKES/DET und 47.5
SAINTS -13.5
CHIEFS +2
CARDS -8
DOLPHINS/BUCS ovr 43.5GOOD LUCK!

NFL Week 9

noreply@blogger.com (F.S. O'Hoolix) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 02:03:00 +0000

Week 1: 6-5
Week 2: 7-3
Week 3: 3-4
Week 4: 2-4
Week 5: 5-4
Week 6: 3-4
Week 7: 2-7
Week 8: 3-4
Total: 31-35

O'Hoolix had another sub .500 week, alas he will strike back. This weeks picks will be sans write ups. Look for "Revenge of the Furry Space Alien" in movie palaces near you.

CHIEFS+6.5
RAVENS +3
COLTS/TEXANS UND 48.5
SKINS+10
BEARS-3
PANTHERS+13
PANTHERS/SAINTS UND 51.5
DET+10
PIT -3

GOOD LUCK!

NFL Week 8

noreply@blogger.com (F.S. O'Hoolix) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 01:09:00 +0000

Week 1: 6-5
Week 2: 7-3
Week 3: 3-4
Week 4: 2-4
Week 5: 5-4
Week 6: 3-4
Week 7: 2-7
Total: 28-31

O'Hoolix was kicked in the junk last week by some admittedly poor plays,especially on the Radiers, Bears and Carolina. Alas O'Hoolix will not be fazed by a subpar week and is back again to take it to the bookmakers.

BRONCOS's +3.5: I'll take the undefeated Bronco's off of a bye week here. Granted this will be their toughest road test so far, I think even if they lose it will be under the number.

LIONS -4.5: What a stinker here! Two awesome dominating teams clash this Sunday......haaaa I don't think so. Anyway, betting on St. Louis right now is certifiably looney, take the Lions in a snooze-fest 17-10.

GIANTS PK: The Giants are the better team here. The Eagles seemed like a team that put it on cruise control against the Skins. How can a team that lost to the Raiders ever put it on cruise control? Giants 31-24.

JAGS +3: Ok, Vince Young will start. Tennessee is really bad this year, will this give them the spark? Unless Vince is going to play defense, I don't think it will matter Jags 24-20.

SAINTS/FALCONS ovr 54.5: Yes, this is a huge number but I think the trend of New Orleans high scoring games continue. Saints 37-24.

BILLS/TEXANS und 41.5: I don't see a score fest here, Texans 21-14.

COWBOYS -9.5: The boys should be able to run all over the Seattle D, opening up their passing game. Dallas 30-16.

Good Luck!

NFL Week 7

noreply@blogger.com (F.S. O'Hoolix) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 01:01:00 +0000

Week 1: 6-5
Week 2: 7-3
Week 3: 3-4
Week 4: 2-4
Week 5: 5-4
Week 6: 3-4
Total: 26-24

O'Hoolix did not count the Titans/Pats wager or the add on game they were a wash. This is a great season this year and O'Hoolix is on the cusp of making a run in the NFL. The furry space alien hopes you are with me on the same side and are ready to CA$H in!

CHARGERS -5: I like the struggling Chargers here because I think they can put up enough points to cover here. The Chargers are hurting but the can score and KC wont be able to keep up: Chargers 28-17.

VIKINGS +6: Everyone is on the Steelers here, thats why O'Hoolix like the Vikes. There is big inside money on the Steelers here, but I think the Vikes can stay with Big Ben and the Steelers. Betting against FAVRE this year is hazardous to your wallet, the trend continues here.

VIKES/STEELERS ovr 45.5: Vikes don't have good pass D, but they can put up some points and the Steelers don't have the D they used to.

RAIDERS +6.5: The Jets are struggling with a rookie QB and the Raiders of all teams look to have a pulse. Take the balck and silver jumpsuits!

PANTHERS -7: No, O'Hoolix is not on drugs! Yes he is laying 7 with the Panthers! The Bills still are weak, O'Hoolix watched their win against the Jets and know they were the beneficiary of 5 Sanchez picks and still barely won the game. They gave up over 200yds on the ground and guess what Carolina does well........

BEARS +3: 2x unit bet! The Bears are a decent team and Cincy is too, but I like the Bears getting a field goal. The Bears should have won against the Falcons, but really gave it away.

FALCONS +4: I will not lay points with the Cowboys. Looks like Jerry forgot to build a team to go along with the 1Billion $ stadium.

GIATNS/CARDINALS ovr 46.5: I look for these offenses to get on track here and have a mini shoot out. 28-24 Giants.

COLTS/RAMS ovr 45: The COLTS should score 31-39 points here, the RAMS should add about 14-20, COLTS 38-17.

GOOD LUCK!

NFL Week6

noreply@blogger.com (F.S. O'Hoolix) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 01:22:00 +0000

Week 1: 6-5
Week 2: 7-3
Week 3: 3-4
Week 4: 2-4
Week 5: 5-4
Total: 23-20

Boy there are some stinkers in the NFL this year! O'Hoolix looks to take his game to the next level and take us to the house with some winners!

TEXANS +6.5: This line has moved from 4.5 to 6.5 in the Texans favor. The Bengals are hot and the Texans are dual personality, but I like Houston. They can score and should be able to keep up with the Bengals. Texans 30-28.

VIKINGS -3: Gotta like Favre and the Vikes in this spot. I think Baltimore is fading some and the Vikes are a tough matchup for them, Favre might be able to exploit the Baltimore's secondary.

JAGUARS -10: This line could be -40 and O'Hoolix would consider taking it. The Jags aren't world beaters, but the Rams are awful and their turnover issues continue to cost them! Bet this number now before it goes up.

PANTHERS -3.5: Again this is a play against a crappy team. The BUCS are in dissaray and the Panthers are a well coached club, despite their record. Steve Smith should go off on the BUCS.

EAGLES -13.5: Take this before it gets to -14. The Raiders cannot score and the Eagles pride themselves on D and Andy Reid likes to throw the ball. Eagles 34-13.

CHIEFS +6.5: The skins are in dissarray and a loss here could prompt a Zorn firing. The chiefs played well last week and might parlay that into another good effort. Skins 20-17.

JETS -8: The Jets offense looked good at Miami and should be able to get enough to dominate the Bills here. The Bills cannot muster any O right now. Jets 28-10.

TITANS/NE over 43.5: The Titans D is hurting and look for Brady and co. to be fired up after a loss. PATS 31-17.

LATE ADDITION: Consider not taking over in above game with Titans/Pats due to extreme weather conditions on East Coast.

ALTERNATIVE PLAY: EAGLES/RAIDERS OVR 40
Good Luck!

NFL Week 5

noreply@blogger.com (F.S. O'Hoolix) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 16:28:00 +0000

Week 1: 6-5
Week 2: 7-3
Week 3: 3-4
Week 4: 2-4
Total: 18-16

O'Hoolix suffered his second consecutive losing week bringing the NFL total to 18-16. This week your favorite space alien looks to right the ship and bring more cash to your pocket! On to the winners.

EAGLES -15: The Bucs stink and Andy Ried likes to pour it on. I would be suprised if TB scores more than 10 points here. The Bucs QB will be running for his life. Eagles 34-10.

PATRIOTS -3: 2x unit bet. O'Hoolix usually doesn't like to increase his bets until his bankroll permits, but I really like the Pats in this spot. They should be able to run on the Broncos here which will really open up the passing game. The Broncos were lucky to beat Dallas and NE is in another pay grade compared to the Cowboys. If you can get -3, do it now.

STEELERS -10.5: If Stafford is out the turnover machine (Culpepper) will be in. Look for the Steelers to get their rushing game on track, which well make it easy pickings for Big Ben. Culpepper or Stafford will be in the MASH ward after this game. Steelers 38-17.

STEELERS/LIONS ovr 44: I think the Steelers have a chance to make the over themselves here, but they should get some help from the lions. The Pitt D should score at least once as well.

BROWNS -6: Never thought I would recommend the Browns but I do like them this weekend. The got rid of Edwards, which should help their clubhouse. The Bills right now shouldn't lay 6 to those pencil neck geeks at Harvard let alone a NFL team. Anderson will give the Browns a lift here and keep it close. Browns 20-17.

COLTS -4: The first half will be close, but after that the Colts will take over. Peyton and Co. have too much O for the Titans. If Jax puts up 37 on them, the Colts may get 50! Colts 31-14

FALCONS +2.5: Sigletary has the 49'ers playing kick ass ball. The Falcons will be the first real test for the 49'ers. Matt Ryan and Co should be able to get enough points to hang on Hawks 17-14, to be safe you might consider buying the 1/2 to make it +3.

RAVENS/BENGALS ovr 42: The improved Ravens offense looks to put points on the board here. The Bengals D is improved but I look for them to give up at least 25-30points here. The Bengals will be able to move the ball in the air and get between 20-24 points. Ravens 30-21.

Good Luck!

NFL Week 4

noreply@blogger.com (F.S. O'Hoolix) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 15:36:00 +0000

Week 1: 6-5
Week 2: 7-3
Week 3: 3-4
Total: 16-12

Week 3 at 3-4 was tough for the best alien football spread expert in the galaxy. O'Hoolix was way off on Tampa and underestimated how BAD they are, ouch! Houston proved they have a dual personality. But at the bottom of the card, O'Hoolix pulled through with 3 late game wins. On to week 4 picks where O'Hoolix hopes to cash in on his very serious alien picks. For my best customers the Harvest Moon Play of the Year is available for a mere $99.00! Call 1-900-VULCANWOOKIE.

TITANS -3: Jax played well last week and Tenn didn't get it done again, but the Titans are the better team here. Jax will provide little to no home field advantage and the Titans are too good to go 0-4.

COLTS/HAWKS ovr 44: Colts should be able to score here with loads of injuries on Seattle. The Hawks should be able to get 15-20 points as well, with the colts injury situation on D. I see a 30-20 or 34-17 type game here.

RAVENS/PATRIOTS ovr 44.5: The Pats will try and throw the ball here against the Ravens they won't be able to run it enough against the tough ravens D. The Ravens will be able to put points up against the Pats D. 30-25 Ravens.

COWBOYS -3: I would consider buying the hook here to make it -2 1/2. Denver is playing very well, but I think Dallas will be primed for this one. Dallas has a huge O-line and will be able to push around the D-line of Denver, which should open up the passing game for Romo. 23-14 Dallas.

BUFFALO PK: The Bills aren't good, but either are the Dolphins. I think the Bills have a better D and if they can get the ball to Owens they should win. Marshawn Lynch will be back for the Bills, maybe this will help their anemic offense.

BENGALS -5.5: Cleveland sucks and they are sinking faster than a lead turd in a punch bowl. The Bengals are off a huge win against the Steelers and look to add to their confidence. Palmer should have a field day against the Browns. 24-10.

Good Luck!
O'Hoolix

NFL Week 3

noreply@blogger.com (F.S. O'Hoolix) — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 04:54:00 +0000

O'Hoolix will be posting his super serious alien picks on Saturday. As of 2 weeks O'Hoolix is 13-8, a stellar 61%. When O'Hoolix says a double bet, he counts it as two games, a la the Saints pick last week. Stay tuned for week 3 winners.

Week 1: 6-5
Week 2: 7-3

Last weeks games were good to O’Hoolix, I hope you had a chance to ca$h in on them. On to week 3 selections from your favorite furry alien.

BUCS +6.5: If you can get +7 here take it. The Bucs are struggling a bit and giving up lots of points, but they are at home and the Giants are on the road again. The Giants are really banged up here and I think in a bit of a letdown spot.
BUCS/NYG ovr 45.5: Giant injuries and TB ability to score some points should combine for an over here. 28-24
TEXANS -3.5: Will the real Texans please stand up! O’hoolix thinks they will in this game. The Texans have the momentum here and the Jags are taking on water fast, 3.5 is not going to be enough here 27-10
BILLS+ 6: I’ll take the home dog here. This is the Saints second in a row on the road and the Bills should be able to keep it close and TO should be able to take advantage of the Saints secondary, 27-24
BENGALS +3.5: This is not the same Bengals and its not the same Steelers. The Steelers looked lethargic against the Bears and won against an apparently over rated Titans club. The Bengals will be hyped for this one.
BEARS -2.5: The Seahawks are dessimated with injuries and the Bears have looked decent this year. If Culter keeps turnovers down, I see a Bears romp.
SD -6: O’Hoolix does like the fish, BUT travelling to the West coast after a tough defeat to play SD is a tall order. The Chargers will be pissed after losing to the Ravens last week. Take the Chargers 24-14.

Good Luck All!

NFL Week 2

noreply@blogger.com (F.S. O'Hoolix) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 14:55:00 +0000

O'hoolix will be posting analysis and selections for week 2 Friday evening or Saturday afternoon.

I first wanted to say a big posthumous thank you to Mel Simon who passed earlier this week. Indy sports fans(in fact the whole city) owes a huge debt of gratitude to the Simon's, specifically Mel who came to Indy first. If it were not for the Simon's buying the team in 1977 the Indianapolis as you know it would not exist. The thinking to revive Indy during that time was to create a vibrant downtown. This was no simple feat when industry was drying up and the economy was in big jeopardy. The Simon's helped keep the Pacer's franchise in Indy, thereby keeping in place a main cog in the big league status potential of Indianapolis. The rest is history. O'hoolix suggests you toast Mel the next time you: walk by Conseco Fieldhouse, go to a Colts game or eat in a nice restaurant downtown or a myriad of other things. All of these were in part due to Mel and Herb Simon's commitment to Indianapolis, how lucky we are!

Week 1: 6-5

Week 2 Picks: People pay much more money to touts to score worse records than 6-5. O'Hoolix is ready to go for week 2 and hopes you are ready to fire away.

RAIDERS +3: Raiders look improved they should be able to score on KC defense. They would have put up a few more points if its weren't for an overturned TD.
TITANS +7: Somebody is going 0-2, I'll bet its going to be Texas. The Texas gave up over 450 yards at home to the Jets last week, I like the Tenn defense better. 21-10.
JETS +4: I really would like this at 4.5 or 5.5, but +4 is decent. The JETS d is good and NE's isn't. The PATS seem a bit overrated in this spot and they will have a rowdy home advantage here.
SAINTS PK:2x Unit bet! Ok, O'Hoolix really likes this one. The Saints have the best O in the league and will show it on Sunday. Without McNabb, Philly's offence will not be its best and they will need every point just to stay close. Philly was a recipient of 7, yes I said 7 Carolina turnovers last week, not this time.
PANTHERS +6.5: If you can get 7 points here even better. Everyone is crushing Delhomme, I hope he destroys the Hawks. O'Hoolix loathes modern societies lack of loyalty and quickness to jump ship, activate Space Monkey's. The Hawks beat a crappy Dolphins team who had 3 fumbles and 1 interception.24-21 Carolina.
BROWNS +3: I don't like the Browns this year, but Denver has to prove to me they can lay points with anyone. Yes, they had a decent performance last week, but I am interested in seeing them as a favorite.
RAVENS +3: Baltimore racked up over 500 yds in offense last week. They should be able to put enough up on SD to win outright. They had a blocked punt for a TD and a pick to their own 6 to make the score closer last week, their D actually played well. The Ravens D should hold Rivers in check enough here.
BILLS/TB OVR 42: Both of their offenses put up decent numbers last week against top tier teams. Both of their defenses gave up a shit load of yards as well, O'Hoolix likes the recipe for an over here.

COLTS -3: -3 is a safe bet here. The Colts are the better team and have the better offense for sure. The fish have two rookie corners who will have a long night against Reggie Wayne's return to Miami and the Colts D. should be able to get a few
turnovers off of Miami.

GOOD LUCK ALL!

NFL Week 1

noreply@blogger.com (F.S. O'Hoolix) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 17:33:00 +0000

Hello all, I'm back, much to the chagrin of many (or any) readers of this blog. O'Hoolix is back for the 2009 NFL season to fatten your slender wallets. Before I post on thursday's game, I have one observation. Stay tuned for weekly picks.

Why is Rick Patino still coaching Louisville? O'Hoolix was stunned with the revelations about the coach. Not only that he had an affair in a place that serves food.....YUCK(O'hoolix would bring a black light if he ever went there)but the following scandal involving blackmail and the allegation that he funded an abortion. How can Mr. Pitino or the university go on like business as usual? Pitino should have stepped down or the university should have fired him plain and simple. This isn't calling a recruit one too many times, this is a scandal that has brought shame to Mr. Pitino, his family and the University of Louisville. When O'Hoolix is King punishment will be swift, just and carried out far from hippies!

PITTSBURGH -6.5: O'Hoolix liked this pick better at -5.0 or 5.5, but it has risen to 6.5. The furry alien thinks that Pittsburgh with all its offensive starters returning will be too much for he Titans. Kerry Collins is coming off of a good year, but I see a down year for him. I don't think they will run the ball against the Steelers and Collins probably won't be effective in the air. Look for the Steelers to score enough on offense to win and cover. Pitt 24 Tenn 10.

Sundays Picks:

Miami +4
Cincy-4.5
Jets +4.5
Minn -4
SF +6
IND -6.5
DAL -5.5
SD -9.5
WAS +6.5
NE/BUF ovr 47.5 (NEW)

Good Luck All!

Owww, That's Gonna Leave a Mark!

noreply@blogger.com (Zinglebert Bembledack) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 21:17:00 +0000

Nothing can make a man cringe more than see or hearing about another man getting hit in the groin. The crotch shot. Nad tap. Blow to the solar plexus. None are a pleasing thought to the male population.

In Wednesday nights game between the Seattle Mariners and Chicago White Sox, Mariners third baseman Adrian Beltre fielded a one-hopper off with his groin. That in itself is bad enough, but to add insult to injury, Adrian does NOT wear a cup! That's right folks, he took a hard one to the nuts and as a result, received an injured testicle and possibly some internal bleeding. Beltre has been put on the 15-day DL and may miss the remainder of the season if the injury requires surgery.

I wonder if the air was sucked out of the stadium after Beltre was hit? You can picture 24,000 fans cringing and sucking air between their teeth. I remember attending an Indianapolis Indians game many years ago at Busch Stadium and seeing a Nashville Sounds player take a line drive to the crotch. Thankfully he had a cup, but it still took about five minutes before he could get up and a limp off the field.

Amazingly, Beltre finished the game after the injury, which occurred in the ninth inning and was won by the Mariners in the 14th. When told he was brave to have finished the game, Beltre stated, "I don't know about brave. Maybe stupid." Beltre has chosen not to wear a protective cup because he feels it impedes his movement and is uncomfortable. So how comfortable are you now, Adrian? I think I will take uncomfortable versus a swollen and possibly fractured testicle. Wouldn't you?

No, We Haven't Forgotten About You

noreply@blogger.com (Zinglebert Bembledack) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 16:05:00 +0000

Don't put out a Missing Persons APB out on us yet. We really are still around, but unfortunately we have been distracted away from our duties here as most of us are "Working for a Livin'." Slut & I need to start beating up Kringlebert & Oswald to start actually writing something...anything at this point! O'Hoolix is away at a secret mascot training center with a batch of new recruits and has not had access to a computer, so we will excuse him until he gets back. So the rest of you get off your damn asses and do something for once!

Most of the LomHenn crew are fans of Huey Lewis & The News as we all grew up in the 80's and have been to several concerts through the years. (Wheeeeeeeee! - That's for you Kringlebert.) However, I have to say that the picture below is not the kind of duet I ever expected out of Huey.

Yes, that is Chris Berman singing up on stage with Huey during the song "Walking on a Thin Line." I can't imagine why Huey chose to bring him up on stage, but evidently this is not the first time it has happened. Those of us at LomHenn would have preferred "Bad Is Bad" believe it is a more apt song title for Chris Berman to sing because generally we feel anything out of Berman's mouth is pretty bad! And if this is it, then I really will want a new drug and need a couple days off.

A shout out to AwfulAnnouncing.com for jumping on this one.

Maybe we can go "Back in Time" and go to "Plan B" to keep this from happening...I know, enough of the damn HLN references already.

Joe Chat, 7/21

noreply@blogger.com (Zinglebert Bembledack) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 20:21:00 +0000

Hey, were only a week late now! Cross your fingers and wish on the first star you see tonight and we might be able to get this week's Joe Chat up by tomorrow evening?

Buzzmaster

We're getting Joe right now!

Why can’t Joe ever be in front of his computer BEFORE his chat ever starts?

Joe Morgan

This Sunday Jim Rice and Rickey Henderson will be elected into Baseball's Hall of Fame. I've been thinking about the future of the Hall of Fame. I've been thinking about it because I'm Vice Chairman of the board and a Hall of Famer. I'm having a real problem with trying to decide with guys that have tested positive or admitted using performance enhancing drugs. I can't come to a definitive conclusion or solution to what should happen. I'm sure this is something that will continue to bother me until someone who has admitted to using performance enhancing drugs is put in front of the baseball writers. I guess the question is, what do you think the solution is?

i.e., please tell me because I can never come to a conclusion on my own…

Matt (New Jersey)

Hey Joe. Other than Pujols, is there any 1B better than Justin Morneau? What a fantastic player he is...

Joe Morgan

You're 100% correct, with the exception of Pujols.

OK, Joe, do you mean that Matt is 100% correct that Morneau is the best except for Pujols or that Morneau is the best player because you take exception to Pujols being better?

Justin Morneau for the last 3 years continues to improve. That's the mark of a great player, that you continue to improve.

Just because a player improves does not necessarily make him a great player. If I bat .200, .201 and .202 in successive years, I improved every year, but does that make me a great player? Fuck no! But I am to Joe by his definition.

He's considered an offensive player as much as anything. He doesn't run as well as Pujols, but he's a great hitter. Prince Fielder and Justin Morneau are the future stars at that position, though Pujols is still young.

Morneau is 28 and Fielder is 25, evidently 28 must be the cutoff for being a young future star because Pujols is only 29!

Michael (Houston)

Do you think the Astros can really do it?

What, get laid? Have sex?

OK, I think the Buzzmaster is getting a little lazy here or no one is sending in questions to Joe. This is the fourth time in the past five Chats that this question has come up.

Joe Morgan

Yes. I don't know what's the in water there in Houston, but it seems to energize these guys in the second half every year. I thought they could have made the playoffs last year, except for the hurricane that moved those three games from Houston to Milwaukee. I think they can make the run this year.

And this is the fourth time that Joe has given the same answer, including the games moved to Milwaukee comments. Well, at least he is “consistent.”

You know, I get that Houston was essentially penalized by having the series against the Cubs moved to Milwaukee, making it more a home series than an away series. But do you really think that with the aftermath of the hurricane and concerns of friends and family back home, that the Astros would have fared much better if the games had been held in Arizona or Atlanta? Most likely, no. So drop this line of reasoning, fucktard!

Matt (Jacksonville)

Joe, the Cubs can't seem to get on a consistent roll. Is there anyway for them to get any consistency this year?

JOE BAIT ALERT! JOE BAIT ALERT!!

Joe Morgan

Last year there was something about the Cubs personality of the team.

What kind of personality was it, Joe? Comical? Whimsical? Determined? Determined to fizzle out in the playoffs? Really, Joe, I want to know.

There was something different. They were a fun team to watch. I enjoyed watching them. (Only on Sunday night games he broadcasted.) I enjoyed talking to them. THere just seems to be a different personality of the team this year. In addition, the confidence level has fallen a little bit. The injury to Ramirez set them back. Everyone talked about DeRosa and he's one of my favorite players, but Jason Marquis is also gone. It's just a little different now. The answer is, I don't know if they'll be able to re-gain that consistency of last year, but they still have a shot at their division.

Damn, he almost made it without taking the bait, but his resistance waned in the last sentence and he had to put it in there.

Not only are players gone from last year’s team, but you added our favorite “gamer” and branded asshole, Milton Bradley. When Ramirez went down, no one stepped up offensively and the team struggled. When your team has fallen into fourth place in the NL Central with no signs of righting the ship and your team was expected to win the division and contend for a World Series title, personalities tend to turn sour. Throw in some gasoline named Milton Bradley and a match named Lou Pinella and you have a veritable firestorm ready to ignite.

Kevin (Rochester, NY)

With the trade deadline a little more than a week away, does the mood of a clubhouse change with the impending deadline? For teams that are likely to be sellers, such as my favorite team the Toronto Blue Jays, how does a manager keep morale up while familiar faces are being dealt?

Joe Morgan

That's an excellent question, because it's very difficult and a problem that goes throughout baseball every year. Players know that sometimes their tenure with that team is short. Or guys that have value know they can be traded. THe job of a manager becomes doubly tough, becuase they have to keep these guys focused and prevent their minds from wandering. Those kinds of things interfere with their concentration and focus. It's something that happens every year and you can't get away from it. To put Roy Halladay's name out there this early, I thought, was a mistake by the Blue Jays. But he's a competitor and he's kept it from changing his focus on the field. But he's a star, a big star. If the trade doesn't happen, you can't go back to him and just say you were kidding. So, Halladay has to be traded. It's unfortunate that it ends up like that.

It’s part of the business of baseball, dude. Players know that they may be trade bait or the underperforming player your team wants to dump. Putting Halladay’s name out there is not going to affect him as much as you think. It is not that the Jays don’t want him. The Jays would just prefer to get a ton of prospects and get rid of his salary. Halladay may not be thrilled, but it is not going to affect his game.

Ben (Greensboro, NC)

Now that the Braves have played more consistently after the All Star break, do you seem them being able to overtake the Phillies for the NL East title? If not, do you think they have a shot at the Wild Card spot?

JOE BAIT ALERT #2!

Joe Morgan

The Braves are a team that always seems to find good pitching and they're always lacking offensive punch. When Chipper Jones is healthy, he adds the punch that they need and the stabilizing force they need in the lineup. But any time he's injured, that lineup becomes offensively challenged. I just don't think they have enough offense to challenge the Phillies. THey have good pitching, but not enough offense. Pitching is great, but you still have to score runs to win.

OK, is this really Fremp at the helm this week? This is essentially something resembling an analysis and did take the Joe bait. This can’t really be Joe…this actually makes sense!

john (cincinnati)

joe, what are your thoughts on expanding replay after watching the bad call last night in twins/athletics game?

Joe Morgan

That's been my argument against instant replay in how they instituted it. They made it so that the home run is the only call they can look at. There are so many plays that affect the outcome of the game, more than just the home run. Two Sundays ago, we broadcast in Chicago and a ball was hit into the outfield and was trapped, but it was called an out. The bases were loaded and they could have scored two runs. So, my point is if you're going to put instant replay in, you have to expand it more than just home runs. THat's not the only play that changes the outcome of the game.

MLB chose to allow replays for only home runs (fair/foul/left playing field) and fan interference. Similar to MLB’s long delay in implementing a steroids policy, MLB knew they HAD to implement something for instant replay or face another backlash from fans or Congress again. OK, they didn’t have to, but they knew they needed to do something. Home runs are the one play that you can definitively draw the line on. If you start trying to include other plays, where do you draw the line? I’m sure MLB will expand replay more in the future, but MLB believes in baby steps.

Ben (Lincoln, NE)

So Mr. Morgan, are the White Sox legit contenders? Because it seems most analysts still only think the Tigers or Twins have a real shot at the AL Central... and I'm not sure why they ignore the southsiders...

Joe Morgan

I definitely believe the White Sox have a chance. Any time you have Dye, Thome, Ramirez, you have a good team. I don't know when Carlos Quentin is coming back, but if they can get healthy, I think they definitely have a chance.

Yes, Joe, the Sox are a decent team, but how about some analysis on why you think they can overcome the Tigers and Twins? Come on, Fremp, so us your stuff!

john (cincinnati)

thanks joe, it seems like each team could be given challenges to use throughout a game on close calls.

What are the odds that the same person can get two questions on the Joe Chat within three questions? Well, he is from Cincinnati…

Joe Morgan

The only problem with that, the games would last 10 hours. Guys would use up their challenges just to use them. One problem with instant replay, let's say the bases are loaded and a player catches it, but the umpires say he didn't catch it and there are runners going everywhere. Then they go and look at it and they find he did catch it, so what do they do with all those runners that scored? The play continues. It's a very difficult thing to use replay in baseball. It's not like football. Football is segmented. Here's a play, here's a play. But baseball has one play following another. They have to go by the call that's made at that moment. It's very difficult to use replay. I just don't think replay works as well in baseball as in football. Are you going to use replay for balls and strikes? Replay will not work as well with baseball as it does with football.

FUCK THE HECK?!?!?!?!? Two questions ago he says they need to expand replay and now he says replay will not work?

Joe evidently does not watch much football and, therefore, does not know that in the NFL, each team gets only two challenges to start off with and can get a third challenge if the team was successful on the first two. MLB could give each team a specific number of challenges similar to the NFL. But, MLB would need to come up with a penalty for a failed challenge similar to football.

I am not sure where to begin with the statement, “Football is segmented. Here’s a play, here's a play. But baseball has one play following another.” Isn’t that the same fucking thing? In baseball, you do not have a “play” on every pitch, per se, but every pitch is segmented. Are you saying that if the runners ran and they should not have, you cannot have the players go back? You sure the fuck can! Now if the umpires called it a catch and it was a trap upon review, now you would have to come up with rules to handle this situation because the runners did not run.

Answers like this from Joe are the reason FJM and this site were created in the first place.

When did Joe and Fremp change places BTW?

Gary (Warren, MI)

To your comment about HOF admission of steroid players: When did the substances that they used become illegal within the sport? When McGwire was found with Andro in his locker, wasn't it being sold over the counter at nutrition stores? (Now, the lying is a different issue,) but if it was not illegal, should they have a legit shot at the HOF?

Joe Morgan

I agree with you 100% in the Mark McGwire case, because Andro was not illegal as far as our country's legal system. But to say that steroids weren't illegal in baseball is wrong, because steroids have been illegal in this country. McGwire's situation is different. I was talking about guys that have admitted to using or tested positive. That's what I was referring to. Not guys that we suspect or guys that we think might have done it. It's hard to convict someone without proof. That's why it's such a difficult task.

First off, steroids are not nor have they been illegal in this country. It is illegal to possess or take them if you do not have a prescription…now. Prior to 1990 with the enactment of the Anabolic Steroid Control Act of 1990, steroids were legal. Secondly, MLB did not have any rules in place to say if a player was found to have steroids in your blood, you broke their rules. They had rules for other drugs (cocaine, LSD, marijuana, etc.) but not for steroids until 2003. So you may have broken the law by takings steroids without a prescription, but you did not break the MLB rules because THERE WAS NO RULE!

I know that Joe cannot make up his mind on voting on someone who has admitted to taking or tested positive for steroids. Heaven help us what his stance is on players who were suspected of taking steroids, a la Mark McGwire.

Mike (LA)

In your opinion where is Halliday at years end?

Joe Morgan

Well, everyone seems to be talking about the Phillies. But I think the Phillies need him less than some other teams. The Phillies are widening their gap. And they don't need to give up their future prospects to get him. There are several teams that I think he could go to that would make them instant World Series contenders. The Yankees for one. Their starting pitching is suspect. Milwaukee. THey could get what they got from Sabathia. The Mets. There are several teams, the Dodgers, that would be instant World Series contenders. But I don't know who would be willing to part with their young players.

This must be tag-team day at the Joe Chat helm, because we are now have to be back to Fremp at the wheel. Not only did “Joe” give us a team, he gave us FIVE possible teams. This is not Joe. This can’t be Joe.

mike (chicago)

Joe, as to the HOF/PED question, since the hall is a museum of baseball history, simply not electing the best players of that generation seems like it's almost saying that era didn't happen. There were great players doing great things, it's part of baseball history, so I think the best answer is to elect the best no matter what and hold our collective noses, right?

Joe Morgan

That's the question. But you're correct in that it's a museum and it's here to chronicle the history of baseball. How do you cover that history, knowing that there were guys that enhanced their statistics with performance enhancing drugs? It's not easy. But your point is correct, that's it's a museum. Your solution might be to elect those that used steroids and put that on their plaque. But you're still putting them with guys who did not use, or admit or get caught using PEDs. There will be a lot of players on the border of being hall of fame players. If they had used, would they be getting into the hall of fame? You're putting in the guys that used and penalizing those that didn't. There's definitely not an easy solution.

Eventually, I am sure Cooperstown will add a section/wing for the steroids era. Not necessarily for the players elected during that time, but to chronicle that era of baseball. It happened, MLB did its best to ignore it and got burned for ignoring it. Purists and baseball writers feel that everything that happened during that era needs an asterisk next to it. They are also going to be hesitant to voting those players into the HOF, i.e. Mark McGwire last year and will most likely do the same to Sammy Sosa, Barry Bonds and Rafael Palmeiro when the come up for election in the next couple of years.

Joe Morgan

I'm looking forward to going to the hall of fame this weekend. I always have a good time and rubbing elbows with other hall of famers. I always have some good stories. Looking forward to sharing some with you next week.

And we’re looking forward to it as well!