Who's the best local TV sportscaster? (with The Daily Poll) and much more
A whole new mess o' miscellania...
[Tuesday night bulletin: Dolphin Jason Taylor survived tonight and advances to next week's finals on 'Dancing With the Stars,' along with skater Kristi Yamaguchi and the guy with the fake arm injury whose name I can never remember. Eliminated: The chubby gal whose name I can never remember, either. In other entertainment news, if I never heard another note from David Archuleta, it wouldn't bother me].
[Tuesday night bulletin II: Feds re-indict Barry Bonds tonight on 14 counts of lying to a grand jury about using performance-enhancing drugs. Anybody still wondering why Barry is an unsigned free agent?].
Name the best South Florida TV sportscaster: Vote in our poll and drop a comment saying why you like who you do. Limited this poll to the regular on-air sports personalities for the Big Four stations serving Dade-Broward; the list is alphabetical with station channel number in parentheses:
[Poll note: Our poll format limits me to 10 answers and there are 11 local sportscasters. Sorry, Prim Siripipat of Channel 4. You got bounced because you are the newest of the group to our market].
Building a better NBA lottery system: Good column by colleague Israel Gutierrez today (click here) about the flaws in the NBA lottery system -- flaws that may well screw the Heat when the ping-pong balls fly a week from today. 
The whole idea of using ping-pong balls is ridiculous. Don't they know those are intended for beer pong? Might as well use tiddly winks or have the coaches of the worst teams vie for the No. 1 pick by playing Parcheesi. The real problem, of course, is that 14 teams (!) are in the running for the first pick including two that were .500 or better. Dumb. My solution: Limit the lottery to only teams that won fewer than 30 games. This year that would be seven teams. Then figure a way to weight it favoring the worst teams based on number of wins. In other words, a worst team with 15 wins (like Miami this season) would have a greater advantage than a year when the worst team has, say, 27 wins. There also should be a safeguard whereby the team with the worst record can never fall below the third overall pick. There. Next problem? How would you change the lottery system if at all?
F
ootballroom dancing: Is it just me, or does a season of Dancing With the Stars seem to last as long as an entire NFL season? Found it interesting they hauled out Dan Marino for the video pep-talk last night. The reason is that (sad truth) none of Jason Taylor's current Dolphin teammates -- not a single one -- is a big-enough star or sufficiently recognizable nationally to pull that off. Bill Parcells is, but Tuna recently was voted "Least Likely to Say Anything Nice About a Player Doing the Fox-Trot."
It's why the Internet was invented: Sexually explicit photos of French Olympic swimmer Laure Manaudou apparently have surfaced on the Internet in the wake of her breakup with Italian swimmer Luca Marin. I believe Olympic swimming would benefit from more scandals of this nature. Manaudou is pictured here being sexy during a meet, but not too sexy (barely) for a newspaper blog!
The new Mike Tyson?: His handlers are trying to makover Tyson's image. Good luck to them. Click here for today's column by me on this doomed transmogrification.
Martial artist departist: Cuban judo star competing in the Miami defects. Gee, now that was totally unexpected!
Mayo on the (unseemly) side: Basketball star O.J. Mayo took received cash via an agent while in high-school and at USC? Geez, will the shocking news never end!?
Goodell inserts head in sand: NFL commish Roger Goodell met three-plus hours this morning with Matt Walsh and then declared Spygate dead. Man, the stunners just keep on comin' don't they?
Countdown 5 Days: Finally, a reminder that this coming Monday May 19 I take over the paper's weekly sports columnist chat in the Q&A Forum, accepting the metaphoric baton from the sabbatical-ing Le Batard. It'll be live from 1-2 p.m. every Monday. Tap in. It beats working.
Mr Cote,
female swimmers have awesome bodies-lithe and lean and not overly muscled; plus, ALL THE LATEX IS ON THE OUTSIDE OF THEIR SKIN!!!
Posted by: the shadow knows | May 13, 2008 at 03:11 PM
I've never understood the convoluted machinations of the NBA draft. It's current form is just plain stupid. The worst team should ALWAYS select first and obtain the best incoming player. Period. In case of a win/loss record tie, settle it similar to football.
Posted by: OC Dolphin | May 13, 2008 at 04:00 PM
All of our local sportscasters blow, so I can't vote in your poll. Please add a "none of the above." At the very least, can we vote on worst sportscaster (Kim Bokamper)? I would much rather vote on local weather girls as we have had some real talent inaccurately forecasting our weather over the last few years. They were always right in as much as they were always wrong and I knew what the weather would be, as it was always the opposite of what they said.
Posted by: Cote = Blah Blah Blah | May 13, 2008 at 04:38 PM
All I know is (1) if the Heat somehow get the First pick in the NBA Lottery, then the system will be great. (2) If they get the Third or Fourth, you all will say the system sucks.
It's funny how Miami loves to change the rules - when they pertian to them!
Lastly, Cote - they use ping pong balls for the same reason the daily lottery and lotto uses them - it's simple and it's a statistics based system. I guess you need to have brains to figure that one out. Too bad for you, Cote.
Posted by: Kurt | May 13, 2008 at 06:38 PM
I'd be willing to bet that now that Kurt is posting it won't be long before Bostonian does. They always seem to show up together funny isn't it?
Posted by: Nuff Said | May 13, 2008 at 06:54 PM
Nuff Said, you're a dumbass.
Who the %uCK are YOU!!!!!!
Posted by: Kurt | May 13, 2008 at 07:39 PM
By the way, jerkoff, I've emailed Cote and asked him to simply list everyone's email address next to their names - he said they're working on it - then you'll finally get it and be able to figure out who is REALLY who, you sheep.
Posted by: Kurt | May 13, 2008 at 07:41 PM
The money bet is Nuff Said is TOM.
Longshot is Nuff Said is Flipper.
Wildcard is R Duke.
Why can't you just post under your own name, asswipe?
Posted by: Kurt | May 13, 2008 at 07:43 PM
Dancing w/stars: At least it doesn't run as long as baseball season. Go Jason & Edyta! Hope she wears the Phins colors again.
Swimming: Any sport would benefit from such photos. Didn't Curling have a photo shoot?
Tyson: Does he still have ear stuck in between his teeth?
Spygate: I don't believe it. Cheating is addictive. You do it once and succeed, you don't stop. Students cheat more and more til they get caught. Probably the evidence just doesn't exist anympre.
NBA lottery: Teams have rested good players near season's end to get the #1 pick or position themselves better. In NFL, 1 player makes less of a difference on the field (22 players) compared to basketball, 1 among 5. You can't compare the two sports. I think the idea behind the system is fine, just need to weigh the bottom end higher perhaps. Or, I'm ok with maybe just the bottom 5 - 7 teams having a shot.
Posted by: mike1 | May 13, 2008 at 08:17 PM
best sports caster? Carrot top or Flower top, pick one.
Current NBA draft does need to be more like NFL..
Kurt- I aint no Heat fan either, so my comment isn't tainted with bias.
Nope, I ain't nuff said either.
Posted by: Jimbo | May 13, 2008 at 08:47 PM
Sorry Flipper, Looks like spygate is going away.
Posted by: Noel | May 13, 2008 at 11:35 PM
So, do you care how one regular sees you? Well, for whatever it's worth, here's OC’s 2¢'s worth.
First, I should say that our host receives favorable marks for sponsoring this format and keeping the topics fresh, fun and engaging. But enough already,
Here it goes:
Al Coholic - See Jimbo
Bruce - Good humor as demonstrated by the stuff you did with the Godfather. Good arguments, just wish you would contribute more.
Dave in VA - Berp! Dude, thanks for the hospitality, pics and all. Keep up the good work, but confess, the YouTube stuff is accredited and thanks to your teenagers - right?
David Tucker - Fellow bloggers do like your stuff. As with Bruce, would like to see you post more often.
dean - Your dissension from all things Miami continue to be your M O. You do manage to keep it civil and more importantly, creative.
George Takei - See comments under your real name.
Grandma and the bus - See comments under your real name.
Flipper72- Mr. hardcore Dolphins' fan. Keep defending and standing by our team. Your support and staunch support for our team is something any other city's fan would love to have.
Jimbo - Top level sports reasoning, and a sense of humor to boot. Really look forward to reading your stuff. Keep it ALL up. Tell Franco that I still have stored size 11 1/2 maroon and beige 6" disco heels in primo shape. If he cares to borrow.
Jose Can-Snich-o - Would only like to see you post more often. You always seem to post some good sh**!
Kurt - Everyone is not an enemy. I think you will find that the level of respect you receive by-way-of your views will be proportional to the respect you initiate toward others. We've all been among buds in a stadium or at a friend's house, with another team's fan. We all cheer our respective ways and still manage to enjoy the company.
Mr. Woodcock - Where's the $20 you owe me?
Mike1 - Consistent topical poster. Good contributions. Only suggestion would be to venture more creatively.
Naples Jack, pats fan - Amiable coexistence amongst Florida team fans. Good stuff, good contributions.
N. J. John - Another great poster, AND creative! Your characters are classic! Great stuff dude, keep on keeping on. Shsss. I hear a wabbit.
Noel - Mr. Steady. I, and think others, would welcome POV’s you feel strongly about. Otherwise, just make sure you are not one of the last three surviving humans living in the world. That is you along with Tom and Cam Camaron.
Nuff Said - See comments under your real name.
Odor Eater - See comments under your real name.
raoul duke - When is your new book coming out? Great creative, and I might add, tolerant approach. A bit dark at times, somewhat rambling in a manner fitting someone experiencing a constant stream of conscience. High marks all around!
The Bostonian, et all - See comments made to Kurt.
Tom - You su**! Just kidding. I've really enjoyed, not just last year's Cam, and the Ginn and Family banter, but many of your learned posts. All props aside, I would enjoy nothing more than kicking your a** on the slopes or on the golf course.
the shadow knows - You're a pillar in this here blog friend. Always informative, appropriate, interesting and respectful. Keep-em coming!
Good night all. Love all your work!
Posted by: OC Dolphin | May 14, 2008 at 02:45 AM
Oscar_g and any others I might have overlooked. Rather late, and missing one here or there was inevitable. Will comment in the future.
Posted by: OC Dolphin | May 14, 2008 at 03:06 AM
Liberals have become even more hypersensitive than normal about any sort of criticism aimed at Barack Hussein (oops can't say that name) Obama. Now what could I do to really piss them off? Question his patriotism? Nah, it's not his patriotism I question (wink), it's his manhood. He's been a pussy his whole life and now Michelle runs the Obama roost. Trust me, I'm Barry's grandmother so I know. Plus, let's face it, Barry is a huge panzy, especially compared to John McCain. Hell, Barry's even a panzy compared to that gas-guzzling fat ass hypocritical redfaced tree hugger Al Bore. Heck, even most Democrats will admit that in a race between Hillary and Barry, the candidate that needs to "man-up" the most ain't Hillary. Right Michelle?
By the way, will someone please get a jack and get this freaking bus off of me?
Posted by: Grandma's still under the bus | May 14, 2008 at 08:01 AM
Will Manso looks like a character from the television show The Addams Family.
Posted by: Jose Can-snitch-o | May 14, 2008 at 08:47 AM
Jah, Vandma is big as ze bus! And usen's zay the Holocaust never happened! Just ask Her Farrakhan and Shorty running ze Iran. Obama agrees with us.
Posted by: Heinrich Himmler | May 14, 2008 at 12:26 PM
Kurt I only made it to the wildcard round? I'm clearly losing whatever touch I may have had. BAAAAAAAAAAAAA.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 14, 2008 at 12:41 PM
Kurt By the way I have absolutely no idea what you're talking about but it sounds full of intrigue.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 14, 2008 at 12:42 PM
Why thankyou OC. I'm hanging your critique on my refrigerator for all to see!
Posted by: raoul duke | May 14, 2008 at 12:44 PM
Heinrich how is the chicken farm in hell working out for you guy?
Posted by: raoul duke | May 14, 2008 at 12:49 PM
Buy the way Heinrich lose the spectacles. Poor eyesight is a sign of "veakness"!
Posted by: raoul duke | May 14, 2008 at 12:51 PM
One last obervation Herr Himmler. Love the SS/Deaths Head uniforms. Too bad NAZI's played for wrong team. I've often thought I'd like to see Fins in similar uniforms however intense Florida sun and heat wouldn't make them very practical I'm afraid...
Posted by: raoul duke | May 14, 2008 at 12:59 PM
Kurt
While in theory posting someone’s e-mail address may sound like a good idea, consider that with the resident dimwit or dimwits that frequent this blog, do you really want your address out there? They obviously have way to much time on their hands and I believe the last thing you would want is to be flooded with several hundred junk e-mails a day, only leaving your computer open to infection by damaging virus’s. I’m sure Cotes crew could come up with an identifying code, but it would require a lot of work that they more than likely feel wouldn’t be worth it. My suggestion to you is to do what I do and just walk away and ignore the dimwits posts, it’s difficult sometimes, but it does work. Responding only intensifies the bullshit.
OC Dolphin
Great job analyzing the blog members, could not have done better. A personal Thank You, you were way to kind.
Posted by: N.J. John | May 14, 2008 at 01:02 PM
The Ant and the Grasshopper
Two Different Versions, Two Different Morals
THE CLASSIC VERSION:
The ant works hard in the withering heat all summer long, building his house and laying up supplies for the winter.
The grasshopper thinks the ant is a fool and laughs and dances and plays the summer away.
Come winter, the ant is warm and well fed.
The grasshopper has no food or shelter, so he dies out in the cold.
MORAL OF THE STORY: Be responsible for yourself.
…………………………….
THE MODERN VERSION:
The ant works hard in the withering heat all summer long, building his house and laying up supplies for the winter.
The grasshopper thinks the ant is a fool and laughs and dances and plays the summer away.
Come winter, the shivering grasshopper calls a press conference and demands to know why the ant should be allowed to be warm and well fed while others are cold and starving.
CBS, NBC, PBS, CNN, and ABC show up to provide pictures of the shivering grasshopper next to a video of the ant in his comfortable home with a table filled with food. America is stunned by the sharp contrast.
How can this be, that in a country of such wealth, this poor grasshopper is allowed to suffer so?
Kermit the Frog appears on Oprah with the grasshopper, and everybody cries when they sing, “It’s Not Easy Being Green.”
Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton are staging a demonstration in front of the ant’s house where the news stations film the groups singing, “We Shall Overcome.” They then have the group kneel down to pray to God for the grasshopper’s sake.
Nancy Pelosi & Barack Obama exclaim in an interview with Larry King that the ant has gotten rich off the back of the grasshopper, and both call for an immediate tax hike on the ant to make him pay his fair share.
Finally, the EEOC drafts the Economic Equity & Anti Grasshopper Act retroactive to the beginning of the summer.
The ant is fined for failing to hire a proportionate number of green bugs and, having nothing left to pay his retroactive taxes, his home is confiscated by the government.
Hillary gets her old law firm to represent the grasshopper in a defamation suit against the ant, and the case is tried before a panel of federal judges that Bill Clinton appointed from a list of single-parent welfare recipients.
The ant loses the case.
The story ends as we see the grasshopper finishing up the last bits of the ant’s food while the government house he is in, which just happens to be the ant’s old house, crumbles around him because he doesn’t maintain it.
The ant has disappeared in the snow.
The grasshopper is found dead in a drug related incident and the house, now abandoned, is taken over by a gang of spiders who terrorize the once peaceful neighborhood.
MORAL OF THE STORY: Be careful how you vote.
Posted by: Grandpa's at the wheel | May 14, 2008 at 01:02 PM
Steve Shapiro is an insufferabke egomaniac. I am thrilled to see JoeRose kicking his a$$. You should run a poll on the most annoying blowhards in local tv to see that jack a$$ take the prize. Him and Sid whatever his name from 790 the ticket. F both those a holes.
Posted by: Patriots cheat | May 14, 2008 at 01:14 PM
With Memorial day soon, thought you may enjoy this, let me know if you are not affected by it. Be sure to have your speakers turnehttp://www.costoffreedomtribute08.org/WeThankU.PPS?d19f1af8d on.
Posted by: N.J. John | May 14, 2008 at 01:34 PM
oc,
nice job. keep up the good work. i enjoy your posts as well.
- gearing up for the world series preview, marlins vs. devilrays! expecting twice the usual turnout. 10,000 paid! + another 50,000 dressed up as stadium seats.
- kudos to mr. cote. using the word transmogrification impressed the hell out of me.
- i think barry bonds would prosper in oakland, tampa or boston. he would also push any of these teams into the playoffs and greatly increase attendance in the first two.
- looking forward to red wings / penguins stanley cup. does anyone south of tampa, but me, have an incredible passion for nhl playoff hockey?
- who the hell is tila tequila?
Posted by: dean | May 14, 2008 at 01:46 PM
tila tequila = tila nguyen, bisexual hottie. close friend to hanna montana.
Posted by: OC Dolphin | May 14, 2008 at 02:00 PM
Grandpa's at the wheel. You sir/madamme are a true genius. Ever think of running for El Presidente offa these here "Aunited Astates"?
Posted by: raoul duke | May 14, 2008 at 02:06 PM
No disrespect with Madamme address. Hard to tell who is who and what is what at times on this blog. Wanted to give ladies benefit of the doubt causa thatsa whatta Iya learned atta a sensitivity training atta work.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 14, 2008 at 02:09 PM
Alright alittle present for all you gentlemen that adore lovely ladies. Look for "Sweet Eve" or "Eve Shine" same babe with different names. My God man as Mick Jagger once said, "She makes a grown man cry."
Posted by: raoul duke | May 14, 2008 at 02:15 PM
Be sure you're an adult boys and girls or get your parents permission before venturing to "Sweet Eve" or "Eve Shine".
Posted by: raoul duke | May 14, 2008 at 02:18 PM
Forgive me Lord for I No Not What I Done Just Like Roger Clemmons...
Posted by: raoul duke | May 14, 2008 at 02:21 PM
In fact I not know the proper usage of know just like Roger Clemmons without help from Coach Ernie Pantuso.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 14, 2008 at 02:23 PM
Thanks raoul, I'll be sure to hang your critique on my refrigerator for all to see.
Posted by: grandpa's at the wheel | May 14, 2008 at 02:33 PM
By the way, as much as I would like to take credit for that piece - I cannot. The piece was being circulated among a group of friends, both liberal and conservative.
Posted by: grandpa's at the wheel | May 14, 2008 at 04:07 PM
Anyone else happen to catch the CNN story about those Curious George "T"shirts?
Posted by: grandpa's at the wheel | May 14, 2008 at 05:35 PM
OC
Thank you OC, for even noticing my posts.
I usually post regular dolphin stuff since I have been a fan for a long time.
But, sometimes I feel I have to defend against intruders so I tend lose my objectivity and get into a confrontation.
Someone even called me a vigilante (hey, I like that!).
Your posts are one of the few that actually makes any sense to me so I appreciate that you even mentioned me.
Posted by: oscar_g | May 14, 2008 at 07:48 PM
My God man whoever said Taylor's dancing outfits are REALLY REALLY GAY was on the money. He looks like a flatulent Billy Zane. Do we really want him kind back on Fins? I mean were already mocked mercileesly for being loser wussies and he's not helping our cause AT ALL! I think Taylor is in the process of "changing"
Posted by: raoul duke | May 14, 2008 at 09:01 PM
Knock on my door, bitch and I'll answer, bitch!
Spygate is done! Flipper whore is wrong again!
Tom & Flipper are still the biggest idiots on the blog.
Posted by: the bostonian | May 14, 2008 at 09:03 PM
oscar_g is still a sad sac of shit!
Posted by: the bostonian | May 14, 2008 at 09:04 PM
N.J. John,
heh, nice to see you're still with us.
Posted by: the bostonian | May 14, 2008 at 09:07 PM
OC- Thanks for noticing my posts. I just love to talk NFL. football. Love my Patriots, Will go to my grave a diehard, like argueing with dolphin fans. Hate and detest jets, and there blowhard fans. They are the bottom of the barrel.Love sparring with flipper72. I think we are cut from the same cloth. Tom, yourself, jimbo,raoul, nj.john,dean,blue dave,ginrai,oscar_g, everyone else I missed, great fans to joust with. It makes this site fun to come to.
Posted by: naples jack,patsfan | May 14, 2008 at 09:12 PM
random thoughts from a very bored mind.
boobs and beer, anyone interested?
I heard Obama was in Michigan today. I guess hope is in the air, or is that a skunk?
If you guys are good tonight I'll give you my recipe for PolturduckenBostonian. (chicken, stuffed in a duck, stuffed in a turkey, stuffed in a polar bear, all packed tightly in a Bostonian's arse.)
If you have sex with a prostitute without her consent......is it rape or shoplifting?
IF Obama wins in November .. i'm gonna find a nice orbiting planetoid that i can sit on for the next couple of years and pick up the old Television of yesteryear.
What do you call three lesbians in a closet? A Licker cabinet
I heard today that Hillary said something like she is "ready to execute the office of President of the United States". Doesn't she have experience at that execution stuff?
Obama may be bad, but anyone who survived the Carter years really lived through torture in his own country.
John McCain was proud of his country...even as he was being tortured for over five years as a POW. Michelle Obama was never proud of her country...even as she was being pampered in Harvard for five years.
That's it. More later...maybe.
Posted by: Tom | May 14, 2008 at 09:48 PM
Tom, the comparison between Michelle Obama and John McCain experience is on the money. Gotta give it to you there! On the money!
Posted by: the bostonian | May 14, 2008 at 09:58 PM
What is this blow hole bostonian bellowing 'bout now. Some jive ass turkey and gravy crap without the fixen's. All hot air without saying anything.I outta take my 11" platform shoes along your backside.
Gotta get back to my workout on the total gym and buns of steel tape.
I'm Franco Harris for crying out loud, Jeeze!!
Posted by: Franco Harris | May 14, 2008 at 10:40 PM
Franco,
There's no "e" at the end of jeez! Also, it is not capitalized!
Posted by: the bostonian | May 14, 2008 at 11:00 PM
If the prostitute is ugly it's self-hatred.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 14, 2008 at 11:38 PM
Welcome bostonian, glad to see you're back correcting spelling and grammar. I can certainly use all the help I can get. Usually will try to keep Websters on hand but with 20/200 vision trying to see that small print is a pain in the a**. So what do you think of Jason Taylor's outfits? Gino Versace's or what? He is somewhere between Brian Boytano, Billy Zane and Jim Nabor's escort for the evening. It's embarrassing. No wonder Parcell's is disgusted. Sorry Flip Jason has been great player and likely still can be but oh those outfits look like they should have a zipper in the back.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 14, 2008 at 11:47 PM
Tom can you imagine Obama Hussein Po Pot Bin Laden as President? I'll move to f***ing Switzerland.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 14, 2008 at 11:50 PM
Whoops Johnny Versace not Gino. Gino sounds more fitting. Had he changed his name to Gino, Andrew "the psychopath" Cunanen(sp?)might not have found out where he lived. Gino Versace might still be walking around South Beach enjoying the weather, the half nude men and creating stylishly moe fashion designs. Oh the humanity...
Posted by: raoul duke | May 14, 2008 at 11:59 PM
Won't go away The case may be closed on Spygate, but Alex Marvez says the sordid incident will continue to plague both the Pats and the NFL.
Specter wants Mitchell-like investigationUpdated: May 14, 2008, 11:45 PM EST WASHINGTON (AP) -
Hold on, NFL. Spygate isn't over. Not if the "incensed" Pittsburgh Steelers fan in Congress has anything to do with it.
Sen. Arlen Specter on Wednesday called for an independent investigation of the New England Patriots' taping of opposing coaches' signals, possibly similar to the high-profile Mitchell Report on performance enhancing drugs in baseball.
End of Spygate?
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said at a Tuesday press conference that he had nowhere else to turn in the Spygate matter. But Sen. Arlen Specter isn't sold, calling for an investigation into the incident.
Specter calls for Spygate investigation
"What is necessary is an objective investigation," Specter said at a news conference in the Capitol. "And this one has not been objective."
The Pennsylvania Republican was unforgiving of his criticism of NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, saying that Goodell has made "ridiculous" assertions that wouldn't fly "in kindergarten." The Senator said Goodell was caught in an "apparent conflict of interest" because the NFL doesn't want the public to lose confidence in the league's integrity.
"They are enormous role models for everybody," Specter said. "If you can cheat in the NFL, you can cheat in college, you can cheat in high school, you can cheat on your grade-school math test. There's no limit as to what you can do. I think they owe the public a lot more candor and a lot more credibility."
Goodell essentially declared an end to Spygate after a 3 1/2-hour meeting in New York on Tuesday morning with former New England video assistant Matt Walsh. Walsh supplied the league with videotapes of coaches' signals made by the Patriots, but offered no new significant revelations about the cheating scandal that has threatened to taint the team's three Super Bowl titles.
Goodell said afterward that the information from the interview with Walsh "was consistent with what we disciplined the Patriots for last fall," when the commissioner docked the team a 2008 first-round draft pick and fined coach Bill Belichick $500,000 and the team $250,000.
But Specter held his own three-hour meeting with Walsh in Washington on Tuesday. He said Walsh detailed how the Patriots used videotaped signals to their advantage: an offensive player would memorize the signals, watch for them on the sideline and pass them on to assistant coach Charlie Weis, who would then inform quarterback Tom Brady.
"And they had some obviously good results," Specter said.
Specter said he would prefer the NFL arrange the independent investigation and was willing to wait several months - while he continues to undergo chemotherapy treatments for Hodgkin's disease - before calling for Congress to take what he called "corrective action." Such action could include hearings or a full-blown Mitchell Report-type investigation. He said public reaction would determine the NFL's next step.
"I would hope that the commissioner would do this on his own," Specter said.
Patriots spokesman Stacey James said the team had no comment on Specter's remarks.
Earlier Wednesday, the Boston Herald apologized for a story that said the Patriots videotaped a St. Louis Rams walkthrough before the 2002 Super Bowl.
In the apology, published in the newspaper's Wednesday edition and posted on its Web site, the Herald said the story was based on sources "it believed to be credible."
"We now know that this report was false, and that no tape of the walkthrough ever existed," the paper wrote.
"We should not have published the allegation in the absence of firmer verification. The Boston Herald regrets the damage done to the team by publication of the allegation, and sincerely apologizes to its readers and to the New England Patriots' owners, players, employees and fans for our error."
Specter repeated his disapproval of Goodell's decision to destroy the notes and tapes confiscated during the initial investigation last fall, as well as the "piecemeal" way the league has revealed details about the tapings. He also cited the fact a Patriots attorney sat in on Walsh's meeting with Goodell as proof the investigation has not been impartial.
"That sequence is incomprehensible," Specter said. "It's an insult to the intelligence of the people who follow it."
The image that appeared on the Boston Herald's front-page apology to the Patriots. (Boston Herald)
Specter's interest in Spygate centers in part on the two NFL teams in his state. The Philadelphia Eagles lost to the Patriots in the Super Bowl in 2005, the same season in which the Steelers were defeated by New England in the AFC championship game.
Pittsburgh defeated New England earlier that season, and the implication is that taped signals from that game helped the Patriots in the rematch. Steelers chairman Dan Rooney has called the matter a "non-issue."
"I have a different perspective," Specter said. "I'm elected by 12 million people., and a lot of them are Steeler fans. ... Frankly I'm incensed about what happened with the Steelers, and I'm incensed about the notes being destroyed. I really am."
Specter was again asked whether his interest in the matter has to do with Philadelphia-based Comcast, one of his largest campaign contributors. Comcast has been involved in a dispute with the league over the placement of the NFL Network on its cable system.
"They have been a campaign contributor," Specter said, "along with 50,000 other people ... I've been at this line of work for a long time, and no one has ever questioned my integrity."
In an interview with HBO scheduled to air Friday night on "Real Sports With Bryant Gumbel," Walsh dismissed Belichick's attempts to minimize the impact of the taping.
"If it was of little or no importance, I imagine they wouldn't have continued to do it, and probably not taken the chances of going down onto the field in Pittsburgh or shooting from other teams' stadiums the way we did," Walsh said.
Walsh told HBO that his superiors coached him on how to evade NFL rules limiting the number of camera operators per team to two, and that team officials instructed him on ways to avoid detection.
Walsh also talked about Belichick's claim that he misinterpreted NFL rules.
"When I was doing it, I understood what we were doing to be wrong," Walsh said. "We went to great lengths to keep from being caught. Just saying that the rules were misinterpreted isn't enough of an apology or a reasoning for what was done. ...
"Coach Belichick's explanation for having misinterpreted the rules, to me, that really didn't sound like taking responsibility for what we had done, especially considering the great lengths that we had gone through to hide what we were doing."
Posted by: Flipper72 | May 15, 2008 at 02:01 AM
Noel,
It's not over till the "fat lady" sings!
I am borrowing that quote from Dick Motta
Coach of the Washington Bullets when they beat the Seattle Supersonics in the NBA Finals back in the late 70's.
Spygate is picking up steam my friend!!
OH YHEA!! Justice is coming...!!!
FINALLY...!!!
Posted by: Flipper72 | May 15, 2008 at 02:03 AM
This article proves my point on why I think the Bills will win the Division.
Bill of goods Don't look now, but Buffalo has the pieces in place to make noise in the playoffs. Adam Schein explains in his offseason nuggets. Go to MSN Sports and click on NFL to read the article on Bills.
Posted by: Flipper72 | May 15, 2008 at 02:05 AM
Patty Bitch,
You were saying......WHAT???
I CAN'T HEAR YOU....!!!
IT'S NOT OVER....!!!
Mitchell Type Investigations- is what Specter is calling for. I really don't care if he has stock in Comcast Cable or not.
As long as the truth comes out and justice is served- then it was all worth it...!!!
heh...heh...heh....!!!
2008 Pats = 9-7....No Play-Offs!!
2008 Fins = 10-6...Wild Card!!
2008 Bills = 11-5...Division Champs!!
Posted by: Flipper72 | May 15, 2008 at 02:09 AM
Flipper, pertaining to spygate: the NFL itself isn't going to do anything else against NE. Of course that could change IF Bellyfullofchicken continues to cheat vs the other teams. What your seeing now is the NFL knowing this is bigger then what is publicized and keeping it contained and under wraps. You have more crooked politicians at the congress level then in a minimum security prison. And these are the chumps that are asking the NFL to do the right thing? I came from Spectors district yrs ago, am familiar with him, He seems OK, decent guy and all. DO you know WHY congress is interested in pro sports??? Because of the $$ involved, it has nothing to do with ethics or American tradition.
My take on all this...spygate ain't going anywhere... I don't want Bellyfullofchicken banned or fired.. I want the Fins to beat them fair and square and see Bellyfullofchicken run off the field after the game with his head down. I want the Fins to beat the div foes in Their House, hearing their fans boing because of a royal butt whooping. Getting it the cheap way tarnishes the satisfaction as far as I am concerned.
Posted by: Jimbo | May 15, 2008 at 11:12 AM
Jimbo,
Whether Bellicheat is in NE or not, his system will be in place for many coaches after him, if his image is not ruined but we all know that it is.
I really don't give a rats ass if he is there or not. We have beaten him fair and square on several occasions.
Remember the shutout game when Satan was coach?? I believe he has a 500% winning percentage against us or is one game under-I'll have to check it out!
If Specter can get his Comcast interest cashed in and still bring justice- then what is wrong with killing two birds with one stone?
He has been honest about Comcast being a contributor to his campaign and has never lied about his interests or intentions. I know that everyone in the country wants to know the truth about what really happened. These fucks have ruined careers, have had coaches fired, others have retired, players have been traded. It has affected the integrity of the game and is sending the wrong message to the kids of this country.
Hell, we are already in dire straits as it is!!! This needs to be done and Goodell and Bellicheat, both need to go...!!!
I cannot believe that you are supporting Bellicheat staying at NE just because of competitive reasons. I think maybe you have been talking too much to Al-Co-Holic...!!!
Posted by: Flipper72 | May 15, 2008 at 12:13 PM
Another thing Jimbo,
How can you forgive that bastard for what he did last year when we played him?
Do you forget how he ran up the score on purpose just to try to humiliate us, after JT got that INT and ran it back for a TD against back-up QB Matt Cassell??
He then puts Brady back in who throws an unheard of 6 TDs against us...!!!
Dude, I was smokin' pissed after that game.
The press conference was a complete joke as well, with Belicheat saying he felt threatened after JT scored- so that justified putting Brady back in....PLEASE!!
This is the same bastard that ran up the score on the Skins and Bills after the game was well in hand.
Well it's a new year and it's time to pay the Piper and will bring justice once and for all. Too many people were decieved-
including the Patriot Fans.
Posted by: Flipper72 | May 15, 2008 at 12:20 PM
That French Swimmer can swim in my pool anyday...!! The location of her tat or wait a minute...is that her bush?? LMAO!!
Hard to tell..!! What do you think Duke?
This is your area of expertise. Further investigation is needed.
As far as JT, either win this damn thing, or lose it and get to training camp NOW!!
THATS AN ORDER..!!
OJ Mayo...should have stayed in school!
Mike Tyson should go hang out with Dennis Rodman and have some sort of love affair in NewPort Beach with Jessica Simpson's ex.
Nick Lachey?? Whatever..!!
Goodell...GONE!
Belicheat...GONE!
The Cuban Judo guy...GONE!
NBA Lottery...needs to be reformed!
Cote's Q & A Session every Monday?
Sounds good to me...!!! Just keep Patty Bitch off the board and all will be swell.
heh...heh...heh...!!!
Posted by: Flipper72 | May 15, 2008 at 12:54 PM
IT'S ALIVE....IT'S ALIVE...!!!
SPYGATE IS ALIVE...!!!
heh...heh...heh...!!!
LAMO...!!! LOL...!!! LMAO...!!! LOL...!!!
Posted by: Flipper72 | May 15, 2008 at 12:56 PM
Steve Shapiro one...Jose Rose two...!!
Enough said boys. Get ready for the Roller Coaster Ride because things are going to get very interesting in the NFL.
OH YHEA!!!
Posted by: Flipper72 | May 15, 2008 at 12:59 PM
Flip regarding French swimmer from that angle and pose I'd have to say she's pretty tantalizing. Hopefully there's at least there's a vagina in that general area. Oh now the idea of Rodman, Tyson and Simpson in a threeway really appeals to some very dark corner of my soul.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 15, 2008 at 01:05 PM
Nick Lachey, Jason Taylor(damn lose the outfits please)Pamala Anderson, Courtney Love and Tom Brady in a remake of Caligula might be interesting. Bob Guccione still alive? If not we could get Sergio Leone and put everyone in sandals and cowboy hats.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 15, 2008 at 01:16 PM
I live in Pittsburgh, so I couldn't tell who was the best sportscaster, except one name stood out: Andrea Brody. A woman? Checked out her picture online. Oh, yes, we have a winner. There is nothing sexier than a babe who knows sports. Absolutely nothing. Isn't the hottest stripper always the one who's wearing the sports jersey? Come on, guys. You wanna pick between Joe Rose, Kim Bokamper, Steve Shapiro--or do you wanna pick the girl?
NBA lottery: only way to do it right is to take all the teams that missed the playoffs and give them all an equal chance. I think they even did it that way one year. If the system just ranks the teams like in the NFL or weights the percentage based on record like the NBA does now, you encourage losing. The only way to have every team go all out is to say all the non-playoff teams get one ping pong ball. The Heat have the best chance because they shut down last year. The coach quit; the two best stars were held out to recover from injuries--the team was a joke. But it was the smart thing to do because the system rewards losses for non-playoff teams and punishes wins. What if the system didn't see a difference between a 15-win team and a 17-win team? Look at it this way: remember a couple of years ago when the Dolphins beat the 49ers in the regular season and that was the deciding factor on the 49ers getting the #1 pick and Miami getting the #2 pick. Who really was the winner of that game?
Posted by: Bruce | May 15, 2008 at 01:36 PM
Oh no OC I believe you forgot our very special Little Crippled Billy in your evaluations...
Posted by: raoul duke | May 15, 2008 at 01:41 PM
The Girl Bruce The Girl! Here, Here!!!
Posted by: raoul duke | May 15, 2008 at 01:43 PM
or is it Hear Hear?!
Posted by: raoul duke | May 15, 2008 at 01:44 PM
oh wht the f*** The Girl. Period.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 15, 2008 at 01:44 PM
regarding my 1:05pm post one minor error one potentially fatal omission. should read "hopefully there's at least a vagina" not "hopefully there's at least there's a vagina" Now regarding omission w2han I said Rodman Tyson a Simpson in threeway I meant Hot Buxom Blonde Jessica not OJ Simpson. I don't go for Horror Flicks.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 15, 2008 at 01:55 PM
"w2han" should read "when" and there should be an "and" between Tyson AND Simpson. Now I go to sleep and pray the Lord my soul to keep as I obviously can't type today.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 15, 2008 at 02:00 PM
raoul,
Malcolm McDowell as Caligula. Can't decide which part was my favorite; dude being forced to swallow, like 40 gallons of wine before getting the blade of relief, or the chick on the third floor pleasure scaffold riding a tongue spoked bicycle. One of my favorite movies of all time.
Posted by: OC Dolphin | May 15, 2008 at 02:01 PM
OC Malcolm is perfect for those roles. Still like his "Little Alex" from Cockwork the best. Lying in bed after stealing, beating and raping he tells his mother he's not going to school because of a bit of a pain in the gulliver and is liable to miss alot more school without sufficent rest. Then he says politely to his poor aging and frail mother "Have a nice day at the factory." What a lovely young man...
Posted by: raoul duke | May 15, 2008 at 02:14 PM
Cockwork?! Man, your Freud is showing.
Posted by: OC Dolphin | May 15, 2008 at 02:18 PM
OC one of these times I'm gonna sign my name raoul dyke. just a matter of time. bostonian already figured out raoul dick or was it prick or hick...thanks for "heads up".
Posted by: raoul duke | May 15, 2008 at 03:46 PM
OC you know what particularly dark, morbidly amusing movie I loved was "Hannibal" Watching him gut greedy Italian detective and eat Ray Liotta's brains was classic.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 15, 2008 at 03:57 PM
Flipper. Wouldn't it be sweeter to see Billygoatcheck on the sidelines when this team does get its act together and stomps them?? I want to see him worrying or pissed off on the sideline when some Dolphin player knocks Brady out of the game out cold, carried off in a stretcher OR body bag! Quite honestly Flipper having the Patriots intact when we take the Division from them will make the wait worthwhile.
Once again friend, there is next to no chance that the Patriots will see any more action against them.
Posted by: Jimbo | May 15, 2008 at 04:28 PM
hmmm. brains? Uncle. I give. Throw me in the Gulag for unbridled ignorance. I got no game today. Ray had only one brain on which to dine in that particular Hannibal Lecter movie.
Posted by: r. duke | May 15, 2008 at 04:38 PM
duke,
Your way to heard on yousefl. breins is jus a figure of speach. is okey bra,
Posted by: OC Dolphin | May 15, 2008 at 05:35 PM
I am "itchen" for some Dolphin news.
Posted by: H. Crotche | May 15, 2008 at 05:47 PM
Isn't Jason Taylor the bomb? You'd never see Fonzie dressed like that.
Posted by: Laverne & Shirley | May 15, 2008 at 05:49 PM
You know why Bostonian wears a mustache? To cover up his stretch marks. heh heh heh 18-1 heh heh heh 18-1 heh heh heh.
Posted by: Her Himmler | May 15, 2008 at 05:51 PM
Sorry I have been away for some time. Uncle Chester gave back my prosthetic hand so I can type. Do you know what was long and hard on Uncle Chester? 7th grade.
Posted by: Little Crippled Billy | May 15, 2008 at 05:57 PM
Little Crippled Billy, Uncle Chester seems to have a rather unusual sense of humor son. What you need to do is ask Uncle Chester to take you out quail hunting and when you're finally out in the woods shoot him in the face. Then run home and tell everyone it was an accident and you're home free kid. Oh yea I almost forgot. Make sure half the barrel of the twelve guage he gives you is sawed off first telling him gun is too heavy to carry with such a long barrel and your prosthetic hand. Then shoot him in the face.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 15, 2008 at 06:29 PM
lol. tanks Oscee for dah compassition.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 15, 2008 at 06:33 PM
Herr Himmler where oh where did your superior Aryan features go? Aren't members of Super Race supposed to have chins and blonde hair. How the hell did you manage to attain such a position of power in the Thir..Oh wait. I just realized one look at 'Dolf and that explains everything.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 15, 2008 at 06:40 PM
Really you and 'Dolf were actually Reinhard Heydrich's beyotches. Now there was one terrifying looking mutherhumper.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 15, 2008 at 06:46 PM
I was really created by Dr Frankenstein. Sometimes at the magical castle J Edgar Hoover would visit, bringing some of his dresses and blonde wigs.
Posted by: Herr Himmler | May 15, 2008 at 06:48 PM
Herr Himmler was Ernst Rhome at the party and is he still pissed off about "The Night of the Long Knives"?
Posted by: raoul duke | May 15, 2008 at 07:11 PM
Just call me what my friends call me "Hiney".
Posted by: Herr Himmler | May 15, 2008 at 08:02 PM
Ok Hiney I'll have some of your finest fried chicken and four pouched eggs with rye toast. I believe I'll wash it down with a "Heiney" Hiney. Now Hiney isn't owning a chicken farm, this fine diner and serving patrons of Hamburg your delicious cousine far more fullfilling than genocide? I imagine you sleep better at night not having to constantly think of ways to "pleasure" your Fuhrer. Let's face it the little loudmouth just didn't know how to stop and smell the roses...
Posted by: r. duke | May 15, 2008 at 09:24 PM
German history so full of psyches both glorious and horrific in their vision and achievements. Snake fascinating and incomprehensibly evil. For those interested in such subject matter I highly rcommend movie starring fine actor John Malkovich entitled "The Ogre". It's creation of great German director that of course I can't recall name of but it is in English, beautifully filmed, perfect music score, dead on center characters and depicts better than any other film of its genre the mesmerizing appeal of Nazi movt. and ultimately it's incomprehensibly devastating consequences. It's easy enough to find with reviews on Amazon.com. Guy who plays Goering is rivetingly realistic.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 15, 2008 at 09:47 PM
"A clockwork Orange" signalled the pisshole into which western society had jumped headfirst; stanley kubrick had lost his marbles when he filmed that piece of trash and the nicole kidman- tom cruise "film" (eyes wide shut?) was the last gasp of a sicko. paths of glory, strangelove, spartacus, barry lyndon, even lolita were fine films- he lost it in a hurry at the end!!
Posted by: the shadow knows | May 16, 2008 at 12:18 AM
lol. shadow had you asked I would have recommended you steer clear of Cockwork er I mean "A Clockwork Orange". Eyes Wide Shut seemed abit convoluted, sleazy and bizarre. It was like a bad wet drean if there is such a thing. Don't know where my head was at but I definitely wasn't in touch with that film. Obviously I've noted a number of times my great fondness for Strangelove and it's characters. Sterling Heyden was great as psychotic General Jack Ripper. Can't get image out of my mind of Heyden with big ol cigar in his mouth explaining to Group Captain Mandrake from RAF, of his need to vaporize Russia due to Communist conspiracy of floridated water. I assure you despite my perverted fondness for Clockwork Orange the movie I recommended above "The Ogre" is in a totally different league with gripping realistic epic feel to it.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 16, 2008 at 10:19 AM
Can you imagine Jason Taylor and his lovely dance partner with those outfits walking into a bar loaded with The Aryan Brotherhood? God someone splash me with Holy Water please!
Posted by: raoul duke | May 16, 2008 at 10:30 AM
shadow,
I guess I have to both agree and disagree with your view. Yes indeed, Kubrick's - A Clockwork Orange, might have "signaled the pisshole into which western society has jumped headfirst." to use your quote. Then again, no director, artist, reporter, even religious leader, would be worth a grain of salt were they to turn a blind eye towards what is going on around them. Electing to depict and show only a Dineyesque representations of life.
The key to me is simply whether or not such a communicator was skilled enough to impart an experience worth experiencing. In the case of Kubrick, I would have to say - yes. His subject was consistently "man vs something." Exploring what happens within our internal psyche when life and opportunities suddenly greet us.
For instance: Lolita (aging man presented with a youthful opportunity), 2001 (man under control vs computer seeking control), Barry Lyndon (opportunistic man presented with a social ladder), The Shining (man vs his internal demons), Full Metal Jacket (man vs demons brought on by war).
We can argue the merits or corruption whenever "communicators" communicate current conditions, but that is a completely different thing, and not a matter of skill.
Posted by: OC Dolphin | May 16, 2008 at 01:29 PM
OC without least bit of exaggeration, I still think you're the brains of this whole operation. There's my critique of you sir.
Posted by: raoul duke | May 16, 2008 at 03:35 PM
Wow, really a rough day in the sewer today. I knew it was going to bad when first thing I got a hole in my boot, not just a small one mind you but big enough to start letting solids in. Then that gas pocket we hit near 51st. Holy shit, thought I was going to pass out.
Kept trying to call Ralph all day about the meeting at the lodge tonight, tried 4 or 5 times and couldn’t get him. Finally when he picked up I dropped my phone in about 6 inches of scum, now it don’t work. I think half the town must have flushed at the same time the water level went up so fast I had to run for half a mile to catch my lunch box. Can’t wait to get home and take a shower and see what Trixie made for dinner.
Posted by: E. Norton | May 16, 2008 at 04:03 PM
Spasibo.
Posted by: Alexei de Sadesky | May 16, 2008 at 04:16 PM
Hum-A-Na Hum-A-Na Hum-A-Na.. Hey Ralphie Boy Ol Pal A Mine why the f*** didn't you pick up the phone when I tried to reach you, you loudmouthed, low life s*** for brains bus driving lard a**!!! I nearly drowned in human waste for christ's sake. Next time you don't pick up that goddam phone when I'm trying to get a hold of you I'm going to bury the sharp end of my hammer in your skull. We understand each other Ralphie Boy!
Posted by: Ed Norton | May 16, 2008 at 05:29 PM
Sorry Ed, I was too busy prying grandma free from under the bus.
Posted by: Kramden | May 16, 2008 at 05:43 PM
One of these days Alice, one of these days. BANG ZOOM to the moon.
Posted by: Ralph K. | May 16, 2008 at 05:50 PM
"Norton, you're a mental patient!"
Posted by: Kramden | May 16, 2008 at 05:52 PM
Didn't I tell you to give the rent check to Mr. Fields today Lou? Now what are we going to do? He's going to have Mike the Cop throw us out in the street, we will roaming the streets with Stinky. All you think about is Hillary. I can't trust you to do anything.
Posted by: B. Abbott | May 16, 2008 at 05:59 PM
Stanley-- Heres another fine mess you've gotten us into.
Posted by: Oliver | May 16, 2008 at 06:04 PM
Surprise-Surprise-Surprise...!!
Gomer Pyle
heh...heh...heh...!!!
Posted by: Flipper72 | May 16, 2008 at 10:09 PM
Sgt. Carter: PYLE!!!!
Pyle: Duh yes Sgt Carter?
Sgt Carter: How would you like me and the rest of the platoon to f*** you up the a**?
Pyle: Well GOOOLLYY Sgt Carter I thought you guys would never ask. Just make sure you only fit two or three guys up my cornhole at a time. I'm still fairly tight back their.
Sgt. Carter: Pyle you'll take what we shove up their and you'll bite down hard on this M-16 round if you feel like your gonna scream and that's an order!
Pyle: Yes sir Sgt Carter.
Posted by: Modesty forbids me to identify myself. | May 17, 2008 at 12:13 AM
OC Dolphin,
just got my discount "Paths of Glory" DVD, one of my primary sources for showing my history students what life in the trenches was like. and, yessir, that was a fine example of man ( kirk douglas as lt dachs) against the corruption of the generals who needed something for the newspapers (adolphe menjou and george macready). both "paths" and "stranglelove" are in my top ten, with "the manchurian candidate" (original version) holding down the #1 ranking.
Posted by: the shadow knows | May 18, 2008 at 02:05 PM
raoul duke,
in total agreement with your assessment of OC and his contributions to this blogsite
Posted by: the shadow knows | May 18, 2008 at 02:07 PM
shadow there are times when I actually wonder if he is really working for Herald and this IS his blogsite...
Posted by: raoul duke | May 18, 2008 at 02:47 PM
No way am I deserving of such accolades, but I thank you guys just the same.
Posted by: OC Dolphin | May 18, 2008 at 06:58 PM
I was sitting on beach with my friend Bloody Mary and wondering.....I wonder what color her panties are.
Posted by: Al Coholic | May 19, 2008 at 01:50 AM
Al Coholic more importantly how do they smell?
Posted by: r. duke | May 19, 2008 at 09:52 PM