<?xml version="1.0" encoding="ISO-8859-1"?>
<feed xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom">
<id>http://FanIQ.com/blog.php</id>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/blog.php" />
<updated>2009-11-10T12:31:08Z</updated>
<title type="text">FanIQ Blog</title>
<author>
<name>FanIQ Blog</name>
<email>Blog@FanIQ.com</email>
</author>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/blog/To-Punish-or-To-Forgive-Andre-Agassi-Blog-32170</id>
<published>1257871200</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/blog/To-Punish-or-To-Forgive-Andre-Agassi-Blog-32170" />
<updated>1257871200</updated>
<title type="text">To Punish or To Forgive: Andre Agassi</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[Andre Agassi recently revealed that he took a banned substance, failed a drug test and then lied about it.&nbsp; He said that he didn't knowingly take it, he knew it.&nbsp; He later went on to win more money and titles.&nbsp; Martina Navratilova has called Agassi the Roger Clemens of Tennis.&nbsp; Marat Safin has called for Agassi to return his titles and prize money.&nbsp; These are the facts.&nbsp; 

Now what does the ATP do?&nbsp; The world anti-doping agency wants Agassi investigated and has put the ATP&nbsp;on the spot.&nbsp; Here is what the ATP tells the world anti-doping agency,

Dear WADA,
&quot;So you want us to investigate and vilify the player that brought tennis to a level that it had never seen before for a relatively minor incident?&nbsp; He is a humanitarian that gives back to his sport, underprivileged kids and to his country.&nbsp; Yeah, I&nbsp;don't think so!&quot;&nbsp; 

Sincerely,
The ATP

Do I think what he did is right? No.&nbsp; Should he get some punishment? Sure.&nbsp; Does he deserve to be called the Roger Clemens of tennis, ostracized by his peers and to be forced to give back everything he earned?&nbsp; Absolutely not!!&nbsp; 

Martina, Roger Clemens lied about what he did and is still lying about it.&nbsp; He took PED's, Andre did not and admitted to taking a drug that does quite the opposite even though he states he did not know what he was taking. He knew.&nbsp; Shut you mouth! Marat, you owe Andre everything.&nbsp; Without him bring tennis to this level, you don't get the prize money, the sponsorships or the training.&nbsp; He made tennis marketable.&nbsp; Go throw a tantrum and shut your mouth!&nbsp; 

Is Andre trying to sell more copies, maybe.&nbsp; My point is that although his story is very similiar to the rest of the athletes out there that have admitted to, been brought under suspicious or even been listed as failing tests.&nbsp; He is the one of the few that did not take a PED.&nbsp; He is the only one that has done anything outside of his sport and did anything for his sport.&nbsp; I keep bringing this point up over and over.&nbsp; Please stand up if you started watching tennis because of Agassi?&nbsp; I see very few of you sitting.&nbsp; I know I&nbsp;am one of the millions standing.&nbsp; He has given way too much to be punished severely.&nbsp; I still think he needs to make amends somehow, but it needs to be on his terms.&nbsp; He will figure something out.&nbsp; He may even donate some proceeds of his book to an ATP charity.&nbsp; 

All in all, I don't think that this needs to be as big a deal as it is turning out to be.]]></content>
<summary>Andre Agassi recently revealed that he took a banned substance, failed a drug test and then lied about it.  He said that he didn't knowingly take it, he knew it.  He later went on to win more money an</summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/blog/NFL-Power-Rankings-Week-10-Blog-32168</id>
<published>1257870600</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/blog/NFL-Power-Rankings-Week-10-Blog-32168" />
<updated>1257870600</updated>
<title type="text">NFL Power Rankings, Week 10</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[There were a few changes from last week's Power Rankings, the most notable one being the Broncos continuing to slide. Could we see them drop even lower in the coming weeks?&nbsp;Of course... if they keep losing. Here's this week's rankings:

1. Saints, 8-0, Last week:&nbsp;1
For the second week in a row, they came back from a big deficit and ended up winning by double digits. They're showing remarkable resiliency, but one of these days, they'll lose a game like that.

2. Colts, 8-0, Last week:&nbsp;2
They benefited from a last second missed field goal by Kris Brown, which saved them from going into overtime against the Texans. This week, their injury-depleted secondary will be tested big time against the&nbsp;Patriots.

3. Vikings, 7-1, Last week: 3
They're coming off their bye week, and have a ridiculously easy second half schedule. Their only tough game is against the Bengals at home. 14-2 wouldn't surprise me at all.

4. Bengals, 6-2, Last week: 6
It's time to admit that this team is for real, whether you want to or not. The defense is stout, the offense is explosive again, and they're looking at double digit wins.

5. Steelers, 6-2, Last week: 7
Their convincing win over the Broncos on the road shows that this team is definitely beyond their early struggles, and are on track for a repeat Super Bowl appearance.

6. Patriots, 6-2, Last week: 5
They've had the Colts' number during the Tom Brady Era... will they be the ones to finally give the Colts their first loss? Don't be surprised if it happens on Sunday night.

7. Broncos, 6-2, Last week: 4
Their defense is still good, but it's safe to say that their offense has been officially exposed. Kyle Orton is a decent game manager, but he's not going to scare anyone. Ever. Except maybe with his neckbeard. But that's the scariest thing about him.

8. Cowboys, 6-2, Last week: 8
Tony Romo is looking better than ever sans Terrell Owens, and Roy Williams even got into the act last week with 75 receiving yards. This team could do some damage in the NFC&nbsp;East, but I&nbsp;still don't think they can compete with the Saints. 

9. Chargers, 5-3, Last week: 17
They're on the upswing, with 3 straight wins. The rest of the teams in their division have all lost 2 straight. But can they continue that, and pass the Broncos?&nbsp;We'll probably find out in 2 weeks when they play each other.

10. Eagles, 5-3, Last week: 10
They hung in there against the Cowboys, and it looks like they're currently a close 2nd place in their division. However, I'm thinking the NFC&nbsp;East isn't normally as impressive as ESPN&nbsp;would like you to think.

11. Cardinals, 5-3, Last week: 18
They put a pretty vicious smackdown on the Bears this week, and Kurt Warner redeemed himself a little bit after an embarrassing effort against the Panthers last week. Some consistency would be nice, however.

12. Atlanta, 5-3, Last week: 13
This team has 3 losses, but they were all to quality teams.&nbsp;The Patriots, Cowboys and Saints... there's not shame in that. At least they're winning the games they're &quot;supposed&quot;&nbsp;to win.

13. Texans, 5-4, Last week: 11
They couldn't close the deal, but at the very least, they proved that they can compete with the Colts. They'll get another chance in 3 weeks at home, and I&nbsp;wouldn't be shocked if they won.

14. Ravens, 4-4, Last week: 9
Get ready for the hype machine next week. They'll destroy the Browns on MNF. Everyone will watch, and think they're great. They're not, but they could probably win either West division.

15. Giants, 5-4, Last week: 12
Either Eli Manning needs to get his foot healthy, or they just need to start playing crappy teams again. Otherwise, their season is screwed. 4 straight losses after 5 straight wins?&nbsp;Wow.

16. Bears, 4-4, Last week: 16
They got beat up and down the field by the Cardinals, but their schedule should give them a solid chance to go at least 8-8. The real trouble is in the next few years, when they'll have no top draft picks.

17. 49ers, 3-5, Last week: 14
This team appeared to have some potential, but things have been pretty awful as of late. That being said, would it shock me to see them win the division?&nbsp;Not really.

18. Jets, 4-4, Last week: 20
The Jets are on the fast track to another 8-8 or 9-7 season. They're an awful lot of bark, but not much bite. But give Rex&nbsp;Ryan another couple years, and they'll be formidable.

19. Packers, 4-4, Last week: 15
There was a time when it seemed like this team might be able to overcome their horrific offensive line. But after a loss to the Bucs, it looks like they're in for a long year.

20. Dolphins, 3-5, Last week: 19
Hopefully Joey Porter talks some more smack before their next game against the Patriots. Their offense is just one big gimmick, and their defense is a big sieve.

21. Jaguars, 4-4, Last week:&nbsp;24
If they had a QB, they might actually be a little intimidating. But their one-dimensional offense isn't going to get them anywhere any time soon.

22. Seahawks, 3-5, Last week:&nbsp;23
The Seahawks have too many injuries, and not enough talent to do much of anything this year. It's time to figure out a long term plan for life after Matt Hasselbeck.

23. Titans, 2-6, Last week: 28
Somehow, they've won 2 games straight. Could they actually make a miraculous comeback and make the playoffs? No?&nbsp;Yeah, I&nbsp;didn't think so either.

24. Panthers, 3-5, Last week:&nbsp;21
Jake Delhomme's name is synonymous with interception, and the Panthers have no possible way to fix the problem. Until it happens, they'll continue to suck.

25. Bills, 3-5, Last week: 22
They managed not to lose this week... only because they have a bye. No worries, though. The Titans will probably pick up their 3rd win in a row against the Bills.

26. Raiders, 2-6, Last week:&nbsp;25
Al Davis +&nbsp;JaMarcus Russell = unintentional comedy of epic proportions. For everyone who's not a Raiders fan, at least. For them, it's just sad.

27. Redskins, 2-6, Last week: 27
The Redskins are so bad, the fans are actually traveling to their road games just to hold signs protesting the horrible ownership. Partially because Dan Snyder banned signs at home games.

28. Chiefs, 1-7, Last week:&nbsp;26
Chris Chambers looks like a solid pickup, and maybe another semi-legit WR&nbsp;is exactly what Matt Cassel needed in KC.&nbsp;They still have issues, but things are looking up. Kinda.

29. Lions, 1-7, Last week: 30
They are 1-24 in their last 25 games. The rebuilding process will be a long, LONG&nbsp;time, Lions fans. But at least know that it won't get too much worse, if that's any consolation.

30. Buccaneers, 1-7, Last week:&nbsp;32
They beat the Packers, and Josh Freeman actually looks like the Bucs might not have made a huge mistake by drafting. He was still a reach, and they should have addressed one of their many other issues, but this kid might be alright.

31. Rams, 1-7, Last week: 29
The Rams play the Saints this week. Get ready for one of the biggest blowouts that you've ever seen. I&nbsp;wouldn't be surprised to see a spread of 20+&nbsp;in this one. I'll still take the Saints.

32. Browns, 1-7, Last week: 31
Eric Mangini needs to be fired. He's a solid coordinator, but there is no reason whatsoever to believe that he's a competent head coach. None. At all. Fire him.


Leave your thoughts in the comments section, and tell me where I&nbsp;went wrong, or why I'm a complete genius.&nbsp;Enjoy.]]></content>
<summary></summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/article/Joe-Cada-becomes-the-youngest-person-ever-to-win-the-Main-Event-at-the-World-Series-of-Poker-1870290</id>
<published>1257866803</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/article/Joe-Cada-becomes-the-youngest-person-ever-to-win-the-Main-Event-at-the-World-Series-of-Poker-1870290" />
<updated>1257866803</updated>
<title type="text">Joe Cada becomes the youngest person ever to win the Main Event at the World Series of Poker</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[21-year old Joe Cada became the youngest person ever to win the World Series of Poker's main event. He won $8.55M&nbsp;total, after coming back from a huge chip deficit against Darvin Moon in a back-and-forth final table battle.Source: sports.yahoo.com]]></content>
<summary>21-year old Joe Cada became the youngest person ever to win the World Series of Poker's main event. He won $8.55M total, after coming back from a huge chip deficit against Darvin Moon in a back-and-fo</summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/article/Michael-Phelps-loses-in-2-races-in-oldstyle-swimsuit-1870298</id>
<published>1257865489</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/article/Michael-Phelps-loses-in-2-races-in-oldstyle-swimsuit-1870298" />
<updated>1257865489</updated>
<title type="text">Michael Phelps loses in 2 races in old-style swimsuit</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[Michael Phelps failed to qualify for the 100-meter freestyle and 100 backstroke finals at the at a World Cup competition in Stockholm, Sweden. He was wearing an old-style swimsuit, which will be required in upcoming events, while most of the competition was wearing the still-legal high-tech swimsuits that had helped him win 8 gold medals in Beijing.Source: sports.espn.go.com]]></content>
<summary>Michael Phelps failed to qualify for the 100-meter freestyle and 100 backstroke finals at the at a World Cup competition in Stockholm, Sweden. He was wearing an old-style swimsuit, which will be requi</summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/article/Dez-Bryant-and-LeGarrette-Blount-cases-show-NCAA-hypocrisy-1870294</id>
<published>1257864891</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/article/Dez-Bryant-and-LeGarrette-Blount-cases-show-NCAA-hypocrisy-1870294" />
<updated>1257864891</updated>
<title type="text">Dez Bryant and LeGarrette Blount cases show NCAA hypocrisy</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[Dez Bryant wasn't completely aware of the NCAA's rules on his visit with Deion Sanders, so he lied about it. If the NCAA&nbsp;wasn't so ridiculous about various so-called &quot;recruiting&quot;&nbsp;violations and actually looked at things a little more reasonably, Bryant would have had anything to worry about at all. LeGarrette Blount, on the other hand, sucker punched an opponent in the jaw. He'll be playing again on Saturday.&nbsp;You think Dez Bryant would like a do-over? I'm guessing so.Source: www.sportingnews.com]]></content>
<summary>Dez Bryant wasn't completely aware of the NCAA's rules on his visit with Deion Sanders, so he lied about it. If the NCAA wasn't so ridiculous about various so-called "recruiting" violations and actual</summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/article/Tracy-McGrady-says-that-hell-be-back-on-November-18--1870260</id>
<published>1257861250</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/article/Tracy-McGrady-says-that-hell-be-back-on-November-18--1870260" />
<updated>1257861250</updated>
<title type="text">Tracy McGrady says that he'll be back on November 18</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[According to Tracy McGrady, he plans on taking the court again on November 18 against the Timberwolves.

&quot;Excited to get back and compete at a high level again. For a full year I had to play on one leg against the best and I couldn&rsquo;t compete with anybody the way I was feeling. It&rsquo;s gonna be a relief to get out there and play knowing what I went [through] last season and this summer.&rdquo;Source: sports.yahoo.com]]></content>
<summary>According to Tracy McGrady, he plans on taking the court again on November 18 against the Timberwolves.    "Excited to get back and compete at a high level again. For a full year I had to play on one </summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/article/Kareem-AbdulJabbar-has-leukemia-1870256</id>
<published>1257858256</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/article/Kareem-AbdulJabbar-has-leukemia-1870256" />
<updated>1257858256</updated>
<title type="text">Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has leukemia</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[Kareem revealed today on GMA&nbsp;that he is battling Leukemia. My prayers go out to him and his family.Source: www.nba.com]]></content>
<summary>Kareem revealed today on GMA that he is battling Leukemia. My prayers go out to him and his family.</summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/article/Forget-Bankruptcy-And-Inexperience-Bernie-Kosar-Wants-To-Be-The-Browns-Football-Czar-1870010</id>
<published>1257835302</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/article/Forget-Bankruptcy-And-Inexperience-Bernie-Kosar-Wants-To-Be-The-Browns-Football-Czar-1870010" />
<updated>1257835302</updated>
<title type="text">Forget Bankruptcy And Inexperience, Bernie Kosar Wants To Be The Browns Football Czar!</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[Apparently, Bernie Kosar took too many shots to the head during his NFL career. &nbsp;How else to explain his delusional belief that he's somehow qualified to step in as the Cleveland Brown's GM? &nbsp;Sure Bernie was a QB in the league for years, but does that mean he has any personnel evaluation experience? &nbsp;Uh... no! &nbsp;And of course, would you trust a man who had to file personal bankruptcy to dole out contracts and keep your club within salary cap limitations? &nbsp;Nix on that too...

So, with all those red lights staring them in the face, I'm guessing the Browns consider Kosar a viable candidate because, after all, this is the organization that hired Eric Mangini...Source: profootballtalk.nbcsports.com]]></content>
<summary>Apparently, Bernie Kosar took too many shots to the head during his NFL career.  How else to explain his delusional belief that he's somehow qualified to step in as the Cleveland Brown's GM?  Sure Ber</summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/article/Steelers-beat-the-Broncos-2810-in-Monday-Night-Football-1869950</id>
<published>1257830682</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/article/Steelers-beat-the-Broncos-2810-in-Monday-Night-Football-1869950" />
<updated>1257830682</updated>
<title type="text">Steelers beat the Broncos 28-10 in Monday Night Football</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[The Broncos have been pretty solid overall this year, but the AFC&nbsp;North has had their number. Of course they beat the Browns handily, but that doesn't really count, since everyone does that.&nbsp;They beat the Bengals in the flukiest of fluky wins all year, and they lost to the Ravens last week, and the Steelers this week in pretty embarrassing fashion.

Tyrone Carter took over for Ryan Clark, who sat out due to a blood disorder, and Carter came up huge. His INT&nbsp;return for a touchdown was the pivotal play, leading to a 28-10 Steelers victory.

The Broncos started off alright, but they got severely outplayed in the second half. Despite their 6-0 start, it's starting to look like their offense is exposing them as the less than stellar team that everyone thought they were. Their defense is still decent, but that offense is simply not championship caliber, and the Steelers made that quite clear.Source: sports.yahoo.com]]></content>
<summary>The Broncos have been pretty solid overall this year, but the AFC North has had their number. Of course they beat the Browns handily, but that doesn't really count, since everyone does that. They beat</summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/article/Aaron-Kampman-Concussed-1869816</id>
<published>1257824061</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/article/Aaron-Kampman-Concussed-1869816" />
<updated>1257824061</updated>
<title type="text">Aaron Kampman Concussed</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[This NFL season has been ridiculously disappointing for Packers fans.&nbsp; The Packers were swept by the hated Vikings and Brett Favre.&nbsp; Then they lost to the Buccaneers on Sunday giving them their first win after eleven straight losses.&nbsp; So to add to that pile of awesomeness comes news that Aaron Kampman suffered a concussion on his fourth play of the Buccaneer game.&nbsp; Of course, because the Packers are such an awesome franchise from the very top to the very bottom he played until the fourth quarter.&nbsp; Way to be on top of things training staff!&nbsp; As of now, Kampman's status for Sunday's must win game against the Cowboys is unknown.Source: profootballtalk.nbcsports.com]]></content>
<summary>This NFL season has been ridiculously disappointing for Packers fans.  The Packers were swept by the hated Vikings and Brett Favre.  Then they lost to the Buccaneers on Sunday giving them their first </summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/article/Angel-Villalona-reportedly-pays-off-family-of-guy-he-murdered-to-get-murder-charges-against-him-dropped-1869658</id>
<published>1257814534</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/article/Angel-Villalona-reportedly-pays-off-family-of-guy-he-murdered-to-get-murder-charges-against-him-dropped-1869658" />
<updated>1257814534</updated>
<title type="text">Angel Villalona reportedly pays off family of guy he murdered to get murder charges against him dropped</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[I'm not sure how many of you are familiar with Angel Villalona. He's the top position prospect in the SF Giants organization, and someone who many of us Giants fans were looking forward to seeing on the big club........until he murdered a guy. Allegedly, of course.

Villalona, 19, had been jailed since Sept. 20, one day after he was accused of a fatal shooting at a bar in his hometown of La Romana of the Dominican Republic. He got released on bail today and the &ldquo;judge accepted the decision of the deceased&rsquo;s family to withdraw the charge.&rdquo;

So, uh, how exactly did that happen? 

The rumors are that Villalona, who received a $2.1 million bonus from the Giants as a 16-year-old, paid $150,000 to the family of the slain man.

The case isn't over though. Prosecutor Jose Antonio Polanco told the AP that while relatives of the deceased man have withdrawn the indictment, &ldquo;this is a case of public policy and we intend to continue to the end with this accusation.&rdquo; Good luck proving it though. 

So, the question may soon be this: Will the Giants continue to employ Villalona, and maybe some day bring him up, even though he in all likelihood murdered a guy? I mean, we do need hitting.

But seriously, this is one of those situations where it might be best to just let this guy go. But I'll certainly be paying attention to this.Source: blogs.mercurynews.com]]></content>
<summary>I'm not sure how many of you are familiar with Angel Villalona. He's the top position prospect in the SF Giants organization, and someone who many of us Giants fans were looking forward to seeing on t</summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/blog/Monday-Night-Football-Live-Thread-Denver-Broncos-vs-Pittsburgh-Steelers-Blog-32134</id>
<published>1257813900</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/blog/Monday-Night-Football-Live-Thread-Denver-Broncos-vs-Pittsburgh-Steelers-Blog-32134" />
<updated>1257813900</updated>
<title type="text">Monday Night Football Live Thread: Denver Broncos vs Pittsburgh Steelers</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[The Steelers and Broncos are two of the top 4 teams in the AFC&nbsp;right now, along with the Colts and Patriots. There's a great chance that tonight's Monday Night Football matchup could have long-reaching implications, and the winner might even end up getting the #2 seed in the AFC once the playoffs come around.

The Steelers have already beaten the Vikings, who were previously undefeated, but now they're heading into Denver, one of the toughest places for road teams to play in the entire NFL.

The Broncos were perfect until last week, when they lost to the Ravens. They're looking to rebound tonight against another tough AFC&nbsp;North team, and they'll be at home this time, where they're still perfect for the year.

70% of FanIQ&nbsp;users say that the Steelers will win this one, by an average score of 25-21. You can watch the game on ESPN at 8:30 pm EST. If you are watching it, chat it up with us here, and as always, enjoy the game!]]></content>
<summary></summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/article/Busy-Times-Ahead-Where-will-MLBs-Top-Free-Agents-go--1869476</id>
<published>1257810715</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/article/Busy-Times-Ahead-Where-will-MLBs-Top-Free-Agents-go--1869476" />
<updated>1257810715</updated>
<title type="text">Busy Times Ahead! Where will MLB's Top Free Agents go? </title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[With Matt Holliday, Jason Bay, Vladimir Guerrero, Andruw Jones, Hideki Matsui, Daniel Cabrera, and Randy Johnson are a list of some of the players that are going to become a free agent. The question remains where they will go and when they will be signed.Source: sports.yahoo.com]]></content>
<summary>With Matt Holliday, Jason Bay, Vladimir Guerrero, Andruw Jones, Hideki Matsui, Daniel Cabrera, and Randy Johnson are a list of some of the players that are going to become a free agent. The question r</summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/blog/Chase-for-the-Sprint-Cup-Recap--Week-8-Blog-32122</id>
<published>1257808140</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/blog/Chase-for-the-Sprint-Cup-Recap--Week-8-Blog-32122" />
<updated>1257808140</updated>
<title type="text">Chase for the Sprint Cup Recap - Week 8</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[We all thought Talladega would be the wild card, the track that would mean the difference between Jimmie Johnson winning or not winning his fourth consecutive NASCAR&nbsp;Sprint Championship.&nbsp; However, on lap three of teh race at Texas Motor Speedway on Sunday, it became clear that everything is bigger in Texas.&nbsp; When Jimmie and Sam Hornish Jr got together and Jimmie spun into the inside retaining wall, there had to have been a collective gasp among everyone watching.&nbsp; Suddenly, it seemed we might want to watch racing again.&nbsp; Suddenly it seemed, the TV&nbsp;announcers had to concentrate of&nbsp;11 other&nbsp;chasers, who were still out on the track, trying to capitalize on Jimmie's bad luck.

While neither Mark Martin nor Jeff Gordon were able to make the very best of Jimmie's bad luck by winning, the difference between them and the top spot has decreased drastically.

While before the race, we were joking that Jimmie could park the car and still have the lead, no one really expected that to happen.&nbsp; Unfortunately for him, that's almost exactly what happened.

Jimmie finished in 38th position, over 100 laps down to the winner, Kurt Busch.&nbsp; Mark Martin wasn't able to lead the most laps (or any laps), or win the race, Kurt's younger brother Kyle led the most laps, and almost won the race, but for running out of fuel, like so many others.&nbsp; Jeff Gordon wasn't able to make the most of Jimmie's misfortune either, calling his 13th place finish a &quot;missed opportunity&quot;.&nbsp; He did lead some laps, and it seemd for a whilethat he might be able to do what he had donein the spring, but in the end, it wasn't to be.&nbsp; He ran into trouble and spun on the track, needing to replace the splitter on his car.&nbsp; Jeff doesn't like Texas much, and says so freely, but coming ouf of there with a 13th place finish was a bit of a victory.

In the end, the top three spots didn't change, although the points did tighten up.&nbsp; Mark is now only 73 points back of Jimmie, while Jeff is 112 back.&nbsp; Kurt Busch jumped 2 spots to fourth, while Juan Pablo Montoya dropped two, to 6th.&nbsp; Tony Stewart stays in 5th, but even he is closer to Jimmie than even Mark was before the weekend, only 178 points out of first.

So, who has a chance?&nbsp; Is it still all about Jimmie?&nbsp; With his 73 point cushion, Jimmie and Chad can call all the shots.&nbsp; They can determine how to &quot;attack&quot; Phoenix and, after that, Homestead.&nbsp; Mark Martin has a chance, but it isn't a great chance.&nbsp; Jeff, too, has a chance, but really, unless Jimmie crashes out again early this coming Sunday, it is still his Championship to lose, in my opinion.&nbsp; 

I could spout a bunch of stats about what Mark and Jeff need to do, and what Jimmie can do and still win, but I'm not a stats kind of fan.&nbsp; I go with the gut, even though my gut may not always be right.&nbsp; Yep, that would be me who has been saying for the last couple of weeks that it was all done, that Jimmie was going to break Cale Yarborough's record and win four championship.

I still say that is the case.&nbsp; I still think Jimmie is going to win his fourth Championship in a row.&nbsp; I know there are a ton of Mark Martin fans out there, to say nothing of Jeff Gordon fans, all of whom disagree with what I say.&nbsp; I just don't see the comfort level or the commitment in those two that I see in Jimmie and Chad.&nbsp; 

Unfortunately, Tony, Juan, Kurt and the rest are really out of this equation.&nbsp; Juan is over 200 points back, and with only two races left, there is just no getting around it, the rest are just racing for a win.&nbsp; Carl Edwards, Ryan Newman, Greg Biffle and Juan Pablo Montoya are in the top twelve, but none of them has won a race this year.&nbsp; Carl and Greg specifically are surprised to find themselves in this situation and really will be looking for the win and the bragging rights.&nbsp; Without at least one win, it will be a very long winter for both of them.

And by the way, I really hope Kurt doesn't win again, I don't want to see another of those backwards Victory Laps.&nbsp; Although I understand it may be his own unique salute to the fans, it doesn't work.

Two more races to go.&nbsp; I've told you what I think, that Jimmie is going to be the champion, but what do you think?&nbsp; Does anyone have a chance?]]></content>
<summary></summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/article/Eric-Mangini-says-that-the-Patriots-and-Browns-are-similar-to-the-Patriots-1869352</id>
<published>1257805889</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/article/Eric-Mangini-says-that-the-Patriots-and-Browns-are-similar-to-the-Patriots-1869352" />
<updated>1257805889</updated>
<title type="text">Eric Mangini says that the Patriots and Browns are similar to the Patriots</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[According to Eric Mangini, his Browns are very similar to the way the Patriots were when Bill Belichick took over.

&quot;I just know when we first came into New England, they'd come off an 8-8 season, and there had to be a lot of transition. It was top-heavy financially, there were tough decisions that had to be made, and we didn't have much success that first year. There are remarkable similarities between the situations.&quot;

I'm not buying this at all. This is just an attempt by Mangini to make his hopeless disaster in Cleveland appear to have a light at the end of the tunnel. However, let's look at the differences:

    The Patriots were 8-8, the Browns were 4-12
    The Patriots had a competent QB&nbsp;(Drew Bledsoe), while the Browns have 2 equally awful piles of crap in Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn.
    The Patriots still had some pieces from the Bill Belichick era, which allowed them to build around their young talent. The Browns are completely depleted and void of quality players.
    The Patriots were built around excellent drafts. The Browns have not drafted well lately.
    And the biggest difference... the Patriots had a strong owner, a great personnel man in Scott Pioli, and they had Bill Belichick, one of the best coaches ever. The Browns, on the other hand, have Mangini.

Nice try, Eric. But I'm just not buying this comparison. Your team is one of the worst I've ever seen, and as PFT&nbsp;points out, they're 31st in offense and 32nd in defense. That's awful. If you want to compare yourselves to anyone, try the 2008 Lions. And hopefully you get canned, just like Rod Marinelli did, because you're just like him... a coordinator, but not a head coach.Source: profootballtalk.nbcsports.com]]></content>
<summary>According to Eric Mangini, his Browns are very similar to the way the Patriots were when Bill Belichick took over.    "I just know when we first came into New England, they'd come off an 8-8 season, a</summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/blog/The-NBAs-Answer-To-Brett-Favre-Blog-32114</id>
<published>1257803100</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/blog/The-NBAs-Answer-To-Brett-Favre-Blog-32114" />
<updated>1257803100</updated>
<title type="text">The NBA's Answer To Brett Favre</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[It boggles my mind that there is not a single GM in the NBA willing to admit they could use the services of Allen Iverson.&nbsp; Are they trying to make an example out of him?
There seems to be a lot of old minds clinging to the notion that outspoken = disruptive.&nbsp; What they really mean is, outspoken = assertive.&nbsp; Someone that they cannot control, who has his own thoughts.
Everything Iverson said is on the money.&nbsp; He is not a 6th man.&nbsp; He can still play.&nbsp; The tapes speak for themselves.
I remember another &quot;aging&quot; warrior who refused to step down at the insistence of hire-ups.
Brett Farve was outspoken.&nbsp; He wasn't willing to squash his dreams or ignore his passion to please Green Bay executives.&nbsp; He wasn't willing to admit to a crime he didn't commit.&nbsp; The crime of getting too old to play at a high level.
Look how that turned out.
Allen Iverson isn't going to plead guilty either.&nbsp; You're not going to lock him down until he gets his day in court.
You'd think that some NBA GM's would take their que from the Vikings and risk it with AI.&nbsp; These are the teams that are stupid not to.

Nets - Who can take over a game in the fourth?&nbsp; Devin Harris was at his best when he played beside Vince (a scorer, also with a reputation to be a headache...and a quitter unlike Iverson).&nbsp; Furthermore, has anyone watched a Nets game this year?&nbsp; Didn't think so.
Timberwolves - Iverson could protect Johnny Flynn and maybe help the Wolves save face in the year without Rubio.
76ers - It's funny how the only thing the Sixers are missing is a go-to-guy and their most recent NBA Hall of Fame legend is sitting out there in limbo.&nbsp; Williams, Iverson, Iguodala, Brand and Samuel could get out the first round.
Bobcats - Please, if you put up a 59 point game and average 86 a night, a distraction is exactly what you need.
Rockets - They are an 8th seed with Iverson.&nbsp; They have all the role players and no stud.&nbsp; Even when T-Mac comes back, he can play the 3 spot.&nbsp; Yes it would be the AI and Carmelo situation all over again, but at least that team was fun to watch.
People have this notion that Allen Iverson is a &quot;cancer.&quot;&nbsp; I prefer to use the term &quot;cowboy.&quot;&nbsp; Yes, he has a sticky and itchy trigger finger, but he's a win-first-guy, not a me-first-guy.&nbsp; If the only thing he knows how to do is score, let him score.&nbsp; Coach the other players to do the rest.&nbsp; If you want to build a house you don't ask the architect to install the plumbing.&nbsp; And this is one hell of an architect.]]></content>
<summary>It boggles my mind that there is not a single GM in the NBA willing to admit they could use the services of Allen Iverson.  Are they trying to make an example out of him?  There seems to be a lot of o</summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/article/I-Think-By-Now-Its-Pretty-Clear-Philip-Rivers--Eli-Manning-1868562</id>
<published>1257803047</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/article/I-Think-By-Now-Its-Pretty-Clear-Philip-Rivers--Eli-Manning-1868562" />
<updated>1257803047</updated>
<title type="text">I Think By Now It's Pretty Clear: Philip Rivers > Eli Manning</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[Philp Rivers led the Chargers to a 21-20 victory over Eli Manning and the N.Y. Giants &nbsp;at the Meadowlands this past Sunday. 
&nbsp;
Rivers, facing Manning on the field for the first time since the two were traded for each other in the 2004 NFL Draft, led the Chargers to a TD with just 21 seconds left to go in the game. Rivers completed an 80 yd drive by throwing an 18 yd Touchdown pass to Vincent Jackson. The drive began with 2:07 left in the game after the Giants had kicked a Field Goal to take the lead 20-14.

For the game, Rivers was 24/36 with 209 Yds, 3 TDs, and 2 INTs. Eli had 215 Yds, 2 TDs, and 0 INTs. For the season, Philip Rivers has 2,245 yds. 14 TDs. and 6 INTs. Eli Manning has 2,070 Yds 15 TDs and 8 INTs.&nbsp;Eli Manning has 16,693 yds &nbsp;113 TDs and 82 INTs over his 82 game career. Philip Rivers has 12,942 yds 92 TDs and 42 INTs in the 60 games that he's played in over his career.

Since 2006 when Rivers became the starting QB in San Diego, here are both players' stats.

&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Wins &nbsp;Yards &nbsp; &nbsp; TD&rsquo;s &nbsp; Comp.% &nbsp; Int. &nbsp; QB Rating

Rivers &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;37 &nbsp; &nbsp;12585 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;88 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 62% &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;39 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;93.95

Manning &nbsp; &nbsp; 35 &nbsp; &nbsp;11673 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 81 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;51% &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;56 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;80.92

&nbsp;Eli Manning has a Super Bowl Ring and Philip Rivers does not. It's not like Philip hasn't played well enough to reach the Super Bowl. He led the Chargers to the AFC Championship in 2007-08 and led the Chargers to a 14-2 record during the 2006-07 season. The jury is still out as both Eli and Philip have a good 6-7 years left to add to their career stats. If Rivers can snatch a Super Bowl Ring, I believe it would be safe to say that the Chargers got the better QB from the 2004 Draft. What do you guys think?Source: www.nfl.com]]></content>
<summary>Philp Rivers led the Chargers to a 21-20 victory over Eli Manning and the N.Y. Giants  at the Meadowlands this past Sunday.      Rivers, facing Manning on the field for the first time since the two we</summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/article/Phoenix-Rising-The-Suns-are-off-to-a-61-start-and-having-fun-doing-it-1869186</id>
<published>1257800418</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/article/Phoenix-Rising-The-Suns-are-off-to-a-61-start-and-having-fun-doing-it-1869186" />
<updated>1257800418</updated>
<title type="text">Phoenix Rising: The Suns are off to a 6-1 start and having fun doing it.</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[Coming into this season, I am not sure anyone had the Suns pegged as serious contenders in the always tough Western Conference. Chris Sheridan of ESPN had them rated 10th in the conference&nbsp;and thus expected them not to make the playoffs.

We are only a few weeks into the season but my guess is Sheridan and others who had Phoenix on the bubble for the 8th and final playoff spot night be feeling a little differently now. The coming out game for this team was against Boston on Friday, November 6. Phoenix played at its pace and scored&nbsp;110 points in a winning effort&nbsp;against a Celtics' team that hasn't&nbsp;allowed more than 91 points to anyone else.

Peter May breaks down the team and in particular focuses on the choice of veterans Steve Nash and Grant Hill to stick with the Suns and try to rebuild the team. Nash clearly still has it. Against the younger, stronger and faster Rajon Rondo, Nash put up 16 points and 12 assists. The reports of his demise have been greatly exagerrated.

The resurrection of Channing Frye (averaging 14.1 points and 2.9 threes per game) is reminiscent of Boris Diaw when he joined the Suns in 2005. If 12th men can leave their teams and become valuable starters for the Suns, obviously, they have something going on.

So, what do you think? Are the Suns a force this year? Will they be in the hunt for the title this season? Or is this&nbsp;hot streak just a flash in the pan that will mean nothing come April and the playoffs?Source: sports.yahoo.com]]></content>
<summary>Coming into this season, I am not sure anyone had the Suns pegged as serious contenders in the always tough Western Conference. Chris Sheridan of ESPN had them rated 10th in the conference and thus ex</summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/article/Ovechkin-fooled-reporters-when-he-told-them-he-would-be-out-for-a-month-1869148</id>
<published>1257800273</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/article/Ovechkin-fooled-reporters-when-he-told-them-he-would-be-out-for-a-month-1869148" />
<updated>1257800273</updated>
<title type="text">Ovechkin fooled reporters, when he told them he would be out for a month</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[Ovi told reporters last week that he would be out for up to 5 weeks..&nbsp; Reports out of Capitals camp today put that number at more like a week..&nbsp; Alex said he was kidding when he told reporters of the time he expected to miss..&nbsp; That Ovi..&nbsp; What jokester!Source: sports.yahoo.com]]></content>
<summary>Ovi told reporters last week that he would be out for up to 5 weeks..  Reports out of Capitals camp today put that number at more like a week..  Alex said he was kidding when he told reporters of the </summary>
</entry>
<entry>
<id>http://FanIQ.com/article/MLB-owners-discuss-the-salary-cap-1869176</id>
<published>1257800211</published>
<link href="http://FanIQ.com/article/MLB-owners-discuss-the-salary-cap-1869176" />
<updated>1257800211</updated>
<title type="text">MLB owners discuss the salary cap</title>
<content type="text"><![CDATA[After the Yankees' World Series win, talk has predictably centered around the idea of a salary cap in Major League Baseball. Obviously, different people have far different views, based on their perspective:

&ldquo;At the rate the Yankees are going, I&rsquo;m not sure anyone can compete with them. Frankly, the sport might need a salary cap.&rdquo; &ndash; Brewers owner, Mark Attanasio

&ldquo;It might be convenient to look at the huge increase in overall revenue and say that the game isn&rsquo;t broke and it doesn&rsquo;t really need fixing, but the bottom line isn&rsquo;t the only bottom line in this case. When you have one player making as much as a whole other team, something is seriously out of whack.&rdquo; &ndash; Peter Schmuck, Baltimore Sun

&ldquo;Having the largest payroll doesn&rsquo;t automatically mean you&rsquo;re going to win. We&rsquo;ve seen that time and time again. Thankfully, we had some payroll come off of our books, and we were able to use that money, make some good decisions, and get players who were able to improve our team.&rdquo; - Hal Steinbrenner

&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve have more competitive balance than at any other point in our history. I&rsquo;m not in the least bit concerned [about the need for a salary cap].&rdquo; &ndash; Commissioner Bud Selig

Where do you stand?Source: www.maurybrown.com]]></content>
<summary>After the Yankees' World Series win, talk has predictably centered around the idea of a salary cap in Major League Baseball. Obviously, different people have far different views, based on their perspe</summary>
</entry>
</feed>
