The Flyers Are History Makers

May 25th, 2010

No matter what happens, this season was a memorable one. Who would have thought during the regular season that the Philadelphia Flyers would make it to the Stanley Cup Finals?  By crunch time, game to make it into the playoffs, the Flyers began to mesh. This team started to take on personalities that every Philadelphia sport fan likes to identify with:

Michael Leighton – the unlikely Goalie whose come up big with 3 shutout games in the Montreal series

Dan Carcillo – the new generation of a “Broad Street Bully”

Chris Pronger – the massive defensive man who is playing his heart out – on ice for a league-leading 28:56 minutes per game in the playoffs.

Mike Richards – the Captain whose tying goal in Game 5 vs. Montreal was EPIC

Jeff Carter and Ian Laperriere – injured and coming back early b/c of their desire to play

and so on…

This is a Philly team, a likeable team, one that the fans relate too.

So here we are, on our way to Chicago for Game 1!  Bro Hymn

PHILADELPHIA FLYERS ARE THE 2010 CONFERENCE CHAMPS! GET YOUR GEAR NOW AT MODELLS.COM!

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Let’s Get Flyer’d Up!

April 20th, 2010

I do not know the stats, but being up 2-1 feels pretty good in this series against the New Jersey Devils.  For a season that looked pretty dismal with goalies down left and right, the playoffs are starting to look up for the Flyers.  With Brian Boucher protecting the net and the Fly Guys playing with a intensity we haven’t seen in a while, I think we’re going to the next round.

Dan Carcillo’s OT playoff winning goal from Sunday night’s game  is a classic:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AeZbleqew6s

I think Dan Carcillo’s face after he scores is the best part.

Go Flyers!!

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Nine Games into the Phillies 2010 Season

April 16th, 2010

What have we learned so far this season?

1. The Phillies offense is off the charts good. Everyone is hitting. Bench looks awesome – Juan Castro in particular.

2. Our pitching behind Roy Halladay is something to be concerned about.  Cole Hamels looks just ok and if it weren’t for the offense, he’d be 0-2.  We also really need Joe Blanton back as Kyle Kendrick is stinking as the 3rd starter. J.A. Happ looked so so and Jamie Moyer, well you just never know.  

3. Bullpen – last night’s game with Ryan Madson closing is a clear indication that we need a legit closer. Brad Lidge says that he’s coming back at the end of April, but what Brad Lidge will we get? 2008 or 2009 Lidge?

4. So far we’ve played the Houston Astros and the Washington Nationals – two not so good teams. 

It’s a long season and foresee the usual wining/losing streaks. Overall, I think the Phillies have improved over last year.

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Thank You Donovan McNabb

April 5th, 2010

Just like most Philadelphia Eagles fans, I too had a complicated relationship with Donovan McNabb.  When the announcement was made yesterday I had a bunch of mixed emotions.  So many that I have to break it down in a few different parts:

First, I’d like to state that I really did like Donovan McNabb as a quarterback.  He helped us to 5 NFC Championship games which I will not overlook. He played through a slew of injuries. Most importantly, he took us to the Super Bowl.  This is where my emotions come in. Donovan represents an era for me, a time right before my dad passed away.

My dad was a passionate Eagles fan. He had season tickets since the 1960s, he went to every home game, he threw pillows at the tv when Donovan thew an interception, and all he ever wanted was to go to a Super Bowl game.  Donovan was his hope. I recall many times my dad going back and forth about his thoughts on McNabb, sort of how like the rest of the fan base was.  When my dad passed away November of 2004, I knew that the Eagles were going to go the Super  Bowl.  The rest of the season I would just think to myself “you have to do this for dad”. 

My brothers made the trip down to the Jacksonville in honor of my dad.  We were convinced we were winning the Super Bowl.  Well, we all know how that ended. Ever since the loss in the Super Bowl, I would think to myself, Donovan’s going to win it for my dad. Every year getting so close but then not delivering. So, I’m sort of sad that this chapter is closed. My dad, the ultimate Eagles fan, will never know Kevin Kolb.

As far as the actual trade, again there’s mixed emotions. Yes, I think the Redskins stink and think Donovan is not the same QB he was at his prime, but still think this move was a bold one.  Just from a PR standpoint I am shocked that the Eagles went through with this. They’ve been hit pretty hard the past few years with Michael Vick and releasing Brian Dawkins and Brian Westbrook. Now they trade they’re best QB in franchise history to their division rivals?

On the flip side, the Eagles did get a 2nd round draft pick and possibly a 3rd round pick the following draft. Also, we’re talking about the Redskins here. They’re not a good team.  Last, we had to move on. To bring back Donovan after all of the trade talk, not even the past few months,  but the past few years, would not have been good for the team. Regardless of what Donovan said to the media, he was not happy here. You could tell by how he was acting out last season;  throwing the younger players under the bus, doing that weird air guitar dance in his entrance versus the Cowboys, and his usual laugh after a botched play.

Overall, I know this is a good move and the best offer the Eagles could get for Donovan. It’s the change part that’s hard. I’m ready for Kolb, but fear the unknown. I look forward to the young players like Desean Jackson, McCoy (hail Pitt!), Macklin, and now Kolb. 

p.s. Eagles defense really needs to improve, that’s another story for another day.

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25% off at NFLShop.com Today Only

March 17th, 2010

Saint Patrick’s Day Sale – Receive 25% Off Your Order at NFLShop.com on 3.17.10! Exclusions Apply.

My picks below

for the ladies $39.99 – 25% off = $29.99:

for the guys $19.99 – 25% = $18.74:

for the kids $74.99 – 25% = $56.24:

because you miss him already $59.97 – 25% = $44.98:

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Broad Street Bullies Documentary Debuts in May on HBO

March 12th, 2010

After a tough loss to the Bruins last night, I thought this may cheer up all the Flyers fans out there – the dates and times on when the HBO documentary “Broad Street Bullies” will air:

- debuts TUESDAY, MAY 4 (10:00-11:00 p.m. ET/PT) during the Stanley Cup playoffs
- Other HBO playdates: May 4 (2:35 a.m.), 8 (11:00 a.m. ET only/10:30 a.m. PT only/3:20 a.m. PT only), 10 (8:30 a.m., 7:00 p.m.), 12 (noon), 20 (6:00 p.m., 4:20 a.m.), 23 (9:00 a.m., 11:00 p.m.) and 25 (8:00 p.m.)

I wasn’t even born during the Broad Street Bullies reign, but I’ve heard the stories. Bloody games, intimidating Soviet’s during an exhibition game, and being hated throughout the rest of the country – this leads me to believe that this group of guys encompasses everything Philadelphia.

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I know it’s only Spring Training but…

March 5th, 2010

boy did Roy Halladay look awesome.  2 hitless innings and 3 strikeouts.  His pitches looked smooth and precise.  It’s great to see how cool and calm he is on the mound.  Hopefully this will rub off on Cole Hamels.

To top it off Kyle Kendrick also had to 2 solid innings. Kyle allowed just 1 hit and struck out 1 in 2 scoreless innings.  I don’t even have to see Jamie Moyer pitch, I say give the 5th start to Kyle.  (sorry Jamie, much respect but just think you’re time was up in 2008)

On another note, Placido Polanco had a great at bat with a single in the 1st inning.  However, his defense at 3rd could definitely use some work. He had an error in the 1st inning.  I hope this Spring Training helps him warm up to his new position.

Overall, it was great to see the Phillies back on Comcast Sportsnet as well as Wheels, Sarge and McCarthy. I teared up when I heard their voices.  Go Phillies!

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There Goes Another Eagle Great, #36

February 24th, 2010

I’m still trying to get over Brian Dawkins leaving for Denver when another blow hits with the release of Brian Westbrook.  I understand the reasoning this time around - injuries and a lot of money for a 30 + year old running back.   Hey, at least there’s a solid back up to Westbrook with McCoy (unlike no one to replace Dawkins).  Either way, he was a Philadelphia Eagle great – here’s why we love Westbrook:

- Even though I loathe Villanova, it was nice to have a local playing for the Eagles

- Most memorable play is the 2003 Giants vs. Eagles game where he ran for an 84 yard off a Jeff Feagles punt to “save the season”. Check out this video of some great Westbrook plays. One word – Explosive!

 Brian Westbrook Highlights

- He is the most versatile player in Eagles history. Westbrook could play any position and he did just that.

- Just like Dawk, Westbrook was also the heart and soul of this Eagles team.

Brian Westbrook on 610WIP and 97.5 this morning announced that he does not want to retire and would like to play for another team. I hope that he stays healthy no matter where he goes. Thank you for 8 great years of giving it your all West 36!

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Spring is in the Air.. Well in Clearwater FL

February 17th, 2010

Reports out of Clearwater seem to be all positive – according to Todd Zolecki of MLB.com:

“Roy Halladay has been here for weeks, impressing teammates with his workout routine. He was unavailable to the media Tuesday because the Phillies are holding an introductory news conference for him Friday. The Phillies also have news conferences scheduled for closer Brad Lidge, who will speak Wednesday, and Cole Hamels, who will speak Thursday.”

Also reported by Ryan Lawrence, from the Journal Register News Service:

Howard, who has finished in the top five of the National League MVP race in each of the last four years, is putting actions behind those words. He has been in Florida since the beginning of January, working out at Tampa’s prestigious athlete compound at the Saddlebrook resort.

It’s the same place Howard first found a year ago, when he recommitted himself physically. The results were evident when the slimmer first baseman reported to spring training this time last year.

“Sam Perlozzo is already working with him, taking ground balls in Florida,” general manager Ruben Amaro said, referring to Howard’s working with the club’s infield instructor. “He shot me a text right after he was done their first (workout) and he said Ryan is looking really good. He’s obviously champing at the bit to get going. That’s kind of a similar theme.”

Howard isn’t alone in maintaining a pre-camp commitment. New pitching ace Roy Halladay, whose reputation as a workout fiend preceded him to Philadelphia, has been arriving AT Bright House Field before sunrise to prep for the upcoming season.

Utley’s offseason move from southern to northern California hasn’t altered his routine, either. He’s been hitting since early January and will surely beat the rush of position players to Clearwater (they don’t have to report until Feb. 23).

New third baseman Placido Polanco has already been working on taking grounders and making throws while also hitting the weights with teammate Raul Ibanez in South Florida.

It feels so good to talk Phillies again!  Sounds like the Phillies are not becoming complacent and are working hard to get back to the World Series. Cannot wait for this season to start.

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Super Bowl Party Recipes

February 4th, 2010

Since we cannot enjoy the game as much since the Philadelphia Eagles are not playing, might as well enjoy some food and drinks?  Here are some great recipes and drink suggestions for the big game:

1) Caramelized Onion and Cheese Toasts

RECIPE INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup water
8 Crostini Toasts (see recipe)
2 ounces Taleggio or Reblochon cheese, cut into 8 thin slices
 
 
DIRECTIONS

Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet. Add the onion, season with salt and cook over moderate heat, stirring, until it begins to brown, about 8 minutes. Add the water and cook until it has evaporated and the onion is very tender and caramelized, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and let cool.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.Arrange the Crostini Toasts on a baking sheet and top each with a slice of cheese. Bake for about 4 minutes, or just until the cheese melts. Top with the caramelized onion and serve. 

Active Time:  20 Minutes
Total Time:  25 Minutes
Yield:  Makes 8 Hors D’Oeuvres

- Pair with either Red/White Wine

2) Philly Cheez Steak Sandwich

Ingredients
1/4 cup peanut oil
1 pound Spanish onions, peeled and thinly sliced
2 jalapeño chiles, seeded and thinly sliced
8 ounces Cheez Whiz or other processed cheese spread
2 pounds rib-eye steak, cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 Italian or hoagie rolls, split in half

Preparation
In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onions and chiles and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are caramelized. Remove the onion and chile mixture to a bowl and stir in the Cheez Whiz.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper. Sear the steak for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until browned and to desired doneness.
Place a roll half on each of 4 plates. Divide the steak among the rolls and top with the onion mixture. Top with the remaining roll halves.

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Chef: Jack McDavid, Jack’s Firehouse, Philadelphia

- pair with Flying Fish HopFish I.P.A

label-hopfish

3) Chicken Fajita Pizza - 

Ingredients
1 can (13.8 oz) Pillsbury refrigerated classic pizza crust
1 tablespoon olive or vegetable oil
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1⁄4 lb), cut into thin bite-size strips
1 to 2 teaspoons chili powder
1⁄2 to 1 teaspoon salt
1⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup thinly sliced onions
1 cup green or red bell pepper strips (2×1⁄4 inch)
1⁄2 cup chunky-style salsa
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (8 oz)

Preparation
1. Heat oven to 425°F. Spray 12-inch pizza pan or 13×9-inch pan with cooking spray. Unroll dough; place in pan. Starting at center, press out dough to edge of pan. Bake 7 to 9 minutes or until very light golden brown.

2. Meanwhile, in 10-inch skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken; sprinkle with chili powder, salt and garlic powder. Cook and stir 3 to 5 minutes or until lightly browned. Add onions and bell pepper strips; cook and stir 2 to 3 minutes longer or until chicken is no longer pink in center and vegetables are crisp-tender. Spoon chicken mixture evenly over partially baked crust. Spoon salsa over chicken; sprinkle with cheese.

3. Bake 14 to 18 minutes longer or until crust is golden brown. Cut into wedges or squares to serve.

Prep Time: 20 Minutes
Start to Finish: 40 Minutes

- pair this with Yard’s Brawler

 Yards Brawler

4) Chicken Wings with Chiles and Lime

RECIPE INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup fresh lime juice
4 cloves garlic, crushed
4 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
3 jalapeno chiles, seeded and finely chopped
2 pounds chicken wings and drumettes
Chicken Wings with Chiles and Lime Recipe at Cooking.com
 
DIRECTIONS

Combine the lime juice, garlic, ginger, and chiles in a glass or nonreactive metal bowl. Add the chicken and turn to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 4 hours, turning occasionally. Remove from the refrigerator and let stand at room temperature for 20 minutes.
Preheat a grill pan over medium heat until very hot. Add the chicken and grill for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and firm. Serve immediately. 

 Active Time:  25 Minutes
Total Time:  1 Hour 45 Minutes
Yield:  Serves 2 as an appetizer 

- Pair with Guinness

images

Go Saints!

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