It's michigan Week

* It’s michigan Week. Wow – doesn’t seem to have the luster that it usually does these days. There’s part of me that semi-roots for michigan just so The Game is big – no, there’s really no part of me that roots for michigan . This season has been so fun. They have broken so many records this year – losing 8 games, losing to a MAC school at home, not going to a bowl.

* Adding insult to injury – michigan ’s qb is doubtful for The Game. Quick – name michigan ’s quarterback. I couldn’t either. His name is Steven Threet. Just think of the last time you couldn’t name michigan ’s quarterback before The Game. Henne, Brady, Collins, Henson and…….Threet? Yes, it’s that bad.

* Just think their qb could have been Pryor. No that’s right he’s a Buckeye.

* I read a quote the other day that gave me a great feeling about baseball – David Price, rookie Rays pitcher, on how he coped with the pressure of closing out Game 7 of the ALCS – “In my mind, I was playing catch with my dad.” I’ve got a tear in my eye. That’s why I love sports.

* Then I have to read about a $140 MILLION dollar 6 year contract being offered to CC Sabathia by the Yankees. That’s why I struggle with sports. We have people getting laid off, housing values plummeting, government buyouts, etc… and we have sports continuing to act irresponsible. There will come a day when the fans show up less.

* The Jackets are finally putting a winner on the ice & the attendance is the lowest it’s ever been. Yeah- I know it’s hockey & that it’s not one of the big 3, but it’s a sign to me that the economy is playing a role in sports. Just ask the soon to be laid off many from the world of NASCAR.

* Did it occur to anyone that the biggest free agents in baseball are former Indians – CC & Manny?

* AC/DC has sold out its upcoming Columbus concert. The singer Brian Johnson is 61 years old, Angus & Malcolm are in their late 50’s – and they are selling out large concert venues. I challenge anyone to tell me which of today’s fresh acts will be selling out concert halls when they are in their late 50s. Can’t think of anyone.

* Hoops have started. This is one of my favorite times of the year. All of the hard work in the gym starting to be seen on the court. The Buckeyes men are tall & long – one of the biggest teams I’ve seen. Just think if they still had Koufas (who isn’t doing bad with the Utah Jazz).

* The BCS poll is fairly well balanced – 2 SEC, 3 Big 12, 1 PAC 10, 2 BIG 10, along with Utah , Boise St . This is close to how it is every year at the end of the year as the conference plays out their games.

* I’ve attached a great hockey photo that was sent to me by a friend. This is one of the funniest signs that I’ve seen.

* Did Donovan McNabb really not understand the NFL overtime rules?

* One last thought from the world of business – I recently read a book by Marcus Buckingham on the importance of focusing on your strengths. It is his belief, that by focusing on improving your strengths (& not focusing on improving your weaknesses) that you create the most value for you & your company. The interesting part is how he defines strengths & weakness. The more I think about this the more I agree. Interesting reading.
* Strength – anything that when you think about doing it, are actually doing it or after doing it that makes you feel stronger.
* Weakness – the opposite – anything that weakens you.

* GO BUCKS