Buzzmaster

  (5:20 PM)

Amy Nelson will be by on Wednesday for another edition of "Your Take" on ESPN2's First Take!

Amy Nelson

  (9:49 AM)

Hello everyone. We'll be starting the chat in about 15 minutes. I know we'll be strating off talking about the Patriots/Jets game and also Mike Martz's latest comments. Send in your questions or comments.

Amy Nelson

  (10:00 AM)

OK I've gotten my dancing in for the day (Mike and Mike prodcuer Scott Shapiro graciously asked me to) and now we're about ready to start the chat.

Jordan (Mankato, MN)

When will Mike Martz take the binky (pacifier) out of his mouth and realize that noone will pick him up and feel bad for his half yard complaint. You can't go back in time ask the St. Loius Rams (your former team) if they would like to go back to the greatest show on turf... yes you were a big part of that! So until you take the awful 49ers from the depths of offensive mediocrity and into prominance, shut your mouth!... WAIT they will never rise because they dont have Dck Vermeil to jumpstart the whole process!

Amy Nelson

  (10:02 AM)

Jordan, That was a long rant...but I tend to agree with you that his complaint didn't seem to make sense, since they couldn't down the ball. Why couldn't he explain that?

Josh (Orrville, OH)

Good morning amy. How are you this fine wednesday?

Amy Nelson

  (10:03 AM)

I'm well...I'm thinking Mike Martz is not looking so good this morning.

Paul (Indianapolis, IN)

Mike Martz forgot what yardage it was but did he also forget that it was only 3rd down and they could have spiked the ball again and then sent in another/better play?

David R. (New York City)

Nice chair dance on Mike & Mike Amy ! LOL

Amy Nelson

  (10:05 AM)

Thanks, I tried.

Chris (Boston)

Amy (Dancing Queen)...what are your thoughts on Ty Law signing with the Jets? Think he'll make a difference in the game?

Amy Nelson

  (10:05 AM)

Not sure, I mean, is he really an impact player anymore? It's been awhile since he's played. My guess is little impact.

Philip (Philadelphia, PA)

Has Mike Singletary showed us he's not ready to be a head coach?

Amy Nelson

  (10:06 AM)

I don't think so, do you guys?

Amy Nelson

  (10:06 AM)

I don't think so, do you guys?

R.J.(Newport)

If Martz knew how to run the ball, he'd have a win Monday and may have never been released by the Rams.

bobby f (LA, CA)

mike martz is a fraud. i watched him take a 6-2 lions team and run it... or i should say ONLY PASS IT into the ground.

Paul (Indianapolis, IN)

Maybe if Martz went to the Cardinals this off season to be offensive coordinator then maybe he will return to an offensive genius again when he has Warner back in his system with top flight wide receivers.

Jordan (NJ)

Not sure why Martz is getting all of the grief. He's not the head coach, and the head coach has made Martz change his scheme. Did anyone else notice how they ran the ball so much more frequently than a Martz offense is used to? It's clear to me that Singletary had a lot to do with the play calling, and the head coach is ALWAYS responsible for time management.

Amy Nelson

  (10:08 AM)

Good point, clock management is important and should be head coach's responsibility...

David A Kennesaw, Ga

I think singletary showed no character throwing Mike Martz under the bus. This is definately a team game. He wanted a power running team and thats what he got. I think that their close game was tainted by sigletarys selfish comments. Martz should not have to explain himself. Hill threw 50 int's that game. The proof is in the pudding.

Oh

Now Mike Martz runs the ball, right RJ? So when he wins it's good players, when he loses it's his fault. Gotcha RJ, you're so smart.

Paul (Indianapolis, IN)

Singletary is a great coach. Nolan had the 49ers playing lifeless and not fighting for that extra yard or fighting for each other. 2 weeks under Singletary and you have Davis making catches he didn't try for before, quarterbacks running for the first down with no helmet, and a team that stepped up and fought hard. Give Singletary more time and he will show he is a great coach.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Martz and Singletary could work for Al Davis. All three appear to be nuts at this point.

Landon (Valdosta, GA)

I think Singletary needs to leave his emotions back in his playing days and check himself before he walks in the locker room every day.

Jim (Nashville TN)

Singletary is not ready to be a head coach

Amy Nelson

  (10:10 AM)

What makes you say that?

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

I think what has been lost in the Martz mess is that up until that point, the 49ers had put together a pretty good game plan with Hill running the show.

JB (Hickory,North Carolina)

My opinion on the Martz is that the head coach could of put the fire out sooner.Martz was at fault but this is a Team sport.One coach didn't lose it for them.

Michael C (Chicago)

Okay how come no one making a big deal about all the time they killed before the first spike

Amy Nelson

  (10:11 AM)

that's what im wondering

Jesse (acworth)

Why is no one metioning the refs got the clock wrong? Gore was down with about 8-10 secs left, the clock should have been placed at the end of the last play, not 4-5 secs after the allowed rthe play to contiue and the niners to run another play?

Paul (Indianapolis, IN)

Jordan and Amy, it doesn't help the head coach with time management when the offensive coordinator is sending new guys into the unit, when they are suppose to be spiking the ball.

Jerry (NY)

If you are sending in players then don't spike the ball at least send them in with a play. That was one of the worst calls I have ever seen.

Jordan (NJ)

The time they killed before the first spike is Singletary's responsibility. He is the head coach.

Lon (Shakopee, MN)

Singletary is to much like Patino when he tried to take the college game to the pros.

eddy (miami)

singletary is a good coach, he is what these premadona athletes need today, remember coughlin wasnt liked by the giants and look at them now so it does work he just needs to stop being so emotional with the media

Chris (Plainsboro, NJ)

They should've spiked it after the review, with 4 seconds left, rather than rushing to get that play off as the clock started with the whistle...spike it, then get 40 seconds to regroup knowing you have 2.5 yards to go

DOC (Prescott, AR)

I think Singletary will be a refreshing change to the head coach ranks. Who's press conference would you rather watch, Singletary's or Bellichik's?

Steve (Portland, Maine)

Singletary doesn't need to take any heat for the 49ers lack of clock management. If Shaun Hill wants to be an NFL quarterback he better know his situations and know when they need to get on the ball and spike it. You don't see Tony Dungy holding Peyton Manning's hand when they are trying to run a no-huddle to spike the ball

Jesse (acworth)

who really has any clue what kind of coach Singletary is? He;s been a head coach for alomst 3 weeks ..

Zach St. Louis

All he had to do was spike the ball and call a new play!!! Let's all understand that San Francisco is a terrible football team. (Except for Isaac Bruce)

Johnstone (Bucktown)

I dont see the Singletary analogy at all. Its more like Coughlin until he started taking Xanax

AllenB (San Diego, CA)

Singletary is a great coach. He doesn't put up with the nonsense that these players throw out there...He's bringing family back to football and I'm excited to watch his team.

Javonn (Alabama)

Singletary is an old school coach with new school players, give it time and they will win, they played better this week than last week.

Romeo (Cleveland)

Just ask me about clock management. We could have beat the Steelers for the first time in what seems like 50 years if I would have just managed the clock better.

Charlotte, NC

Regarding Monday night's game, I'm glad that someone finally mentioned that it was only third down.

Willie (Cleveland)

the only good thing about me losing my job yesterday is I get to chat with amy nelson

Kevin (Arlington, VA)

Eddy, it did work out eventually with Coughlin. But he never threw anyone under the bus and deflected responsibilty from himself, even when he was on the hot seat. That's does not earn any respect from his players and staff.

Chris (Boston)

Two big factors in the Jets/Pats game. 1.) Cassel is maturing and playing a lot better and you can even see that he has more zip on the ball. 2.) Thomas Jones has been playing very well the past few weeks. If he can run the ball and gain 100+ yards I think the Jets can win. If not, I think the Jets will lose...I don't see Favre winning the game for them. side note: It will be interesting to see how BJGE runs the ball as well.

Paul (Indianapolis, IN)

Singletary caused the 49ers to make major improvements since he had taken over. With a little more experience and a better offensive coordinator the sky is the limit for how good they could be next year.

Zach St. Louis

PUJOLS MVP PUJOLS MVP PUJOLS MVP

Amy Nelson

  (10:22 AM)

easy zach, you have to wait a few more days

Michael C. (Chicago)

anyone else find T.O. to be not funny yesterday, it was just dumb

Amy Nelson

  (10:22 AM)

hmmm, i'm guessing skip

Kenneth (Charlotte, NC)

I'm glad that Skip finally mentioned that it was only third down when they ran their final play.

Christian (Fairfax, VA)

the New York Bretts will dominate the Pats on Thursday night, the Pats are mediocre without Tom Brady and Bellichik is mediocre without TB as well

Brian Illinois

This is obviously Mike Singletary's way of marking his territory. He wants to keep his job and he needs to get rid of Mike Martz to insure that.

jesse (acworth)

really? you're comparing Shaun Hill in his 6th game to One of the Top QBs of the last 30 years? t

Amy Nelson

  (10:24 AM)

I get that analogy, but please, peyton manning is just a tad more experienced.

Jeremey(Louisville, KY.)

Brett will not want the young guy to beat him, and will give his all that can be a good thing and a bad one.

Jeremy A. (Brigham City, UT)

Everyone is talking about Farve and Cassel in the AFC East. What about Pennington? Week by week he a putting up very good numbers. I understand he's no Brett Farve, but would you put him (Pennington) in the same league as them?

Kev (NYC)

The Jets lost to Oakland...therefore none of their fans can call other teams *mediocre*

Paul (Indianapolis, IN)

Do you think of Pujols wins the MVP he will decline it based off his logic? I remember when Ryan Howard won it, Pujols said someone who didn't make the playoffs didn't deserve to be MVP. Funny i don't recall the Cardinals in the playoffs this year.

Amy Nelson

  (10:27 AM)

i think that's going to be very intersting press conference because it will be one of the first questions asked.

Adam Griffith (Tampa, FL)

The Bretts will shut down Skip's boy Randy Moss, and take the AFC East

Chris (Boaz, AL)

This Thursday night Brett will show if he really can still handle the big games

Amy Nelson

  (10:28 AM)

i'm looking forward to watching favre in foxboro entering that rivalry.

eddy (miami)

kevin, you do have a point, but i really dont think that he meant to throw him under the bus, i just think singletary is honest to a fault, that he doesnt know what to say to the media, now if he mentions martz name when they win a game then its all fair

Kevin (Arlington, VA)

Jeremy A., that's what I was shouting last week. Pennington should be a MVP candidate, or at least in the discussion!

Adam Philly

Granted Mike Singletarys measures where a bit extreme, but there is no way that he should be expected to turn that team around in bye the end this season. He should keep that job for at least the end of this year and the following year

Noel Timmons

What will it take to get a rule in place that prohibits a QB from looking over to the coaches to change the play once they have approached the line of scrimmage? It is unfair to have the eye in the sky look at the defensive alignment and then be able to have the coach change the play after that. Let the players play! Make the QB read a defense.

Chris (East Lansing)

Just a note, since Paul brought up Pujols. Why have I not seen a game of baseball for nearly half of a month and only now are these awards trickling down?

Amy Nelson

  (10:30 AM)

big debate topic. because baseball can never seem to do it right...

Mike (NY)

Amy, Favre is going to do really good. he's been involved in rivalries before, like Minnesota-Green Bay. I have a feeling he is going to bring the Jets up this week.

Javonn (Alabama)

If Pats win again amy there is no rivalry, the BF Jets have to win to make it a rivalry.

Adam (Columbus, OH)

Pennington for MVP is as laughable as Collins.

Rob (Lewistown, PA)

The Jets don't have to shut him down because nobody shuts down Randy Moss like Matt Cassel. He barely throws his way and doesn't throw the deep ball like Brady.

Amy Nelson

  (10:32 AM)

ok that one's getting read on the air...

Mike (New Jersey)

i think that favre will have a good game in foxboro. they are getting the running game going, which in turn will help the pass. as long as brett doesnt try to force plays then i predict the jets win 21-17.

Kevin (Arlington, VA)

Adam, what makes you say that? They lost Taylor and gained Pennington, other than that their team is relatively the same. After a 1-15 season they're suddenly in the playoff hunt. How much more "Valuable" can a player be? Not saying he should win, but he should be mentioned....

Chris (East Lansing)

Honestly, I think Brett would play better if Tom Brady was playing behind center this week. Favre does get pumped up for rivalries, rivalries that he was a part of for two decades. We're all assuming we're getting the Green Bay Brett Favre in a Jets package. We're not. To think we are getting 100% of the Favre Spirit is not right.

Amy Nelson

  (10:34 AM)

that's an intersting point

Josh (mcallen,tx)

i think the key is how t. jones' old legs do iin the running game. seems like when he does good and gets involved, the jets win

Eric ( Flint, MI )

Iverson's a scorer not a point guard. When was the last time AI played tough, in your face defense? Probably never. He'll win Detroit some games but I don't see them even getting past the Conference Semi-Finals now.

John (Colorado Springs)

How can you not count Pennimgton as aMVP candidate when the Dolphins only won one game last year and also traded away their best defensive player?

Eugene (Rockford IL)

If the Jets can run the ball well they can beat any team in the NFL

Kevin (Arlington, VA)

Speaking of Randy Moss/Matt Cassell. What's with all the drops? Is he trying to ensure Brady's job next year?

Joshua (FL)

Chris, you mean the way the Favre Spirit possessed the AZ Cards? The old man seemed to 'get up' for that game.

Jazmin (Philadelphia)

Eagles fans, upset over Reid's poor playcalling and calling for him to be fired, will forget to be mad yet again continuing into next week, and nothing will change. They will lose another key game like this in the future, Andy will not have learned his lesson.

Amy Nelson

  (10:37 AM)

ok...not sure i know what that has to do with...

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

I don't think you can count on anything against a coach who can win with Matt Cassel at QB and BenJarvis Green-Ellis as his feature RB.

Zach St. Louis

Why is everyone hating on Cassel? He's trying to fill the shoes of a probable hall of famer, and it takes time to find rythm and timing with your team and especially your receivers. The Pats, even though I hate them, are leading their division and will be in the playoffs even with many HUGE injuries. Give the guy some time and a break, sheeeeeesh!

Allen (San Diego, CA)

Why aren't the Dodgers paying for Manny? They've unloaded money from pitching, and they aren't going to sign Peavy from San Diego. Manny made that city go crazy for baseball again. He brought out the fans and carried the Dodgers into the postseason. Why isn't LA just throwing and offer for 3 or 4 year worth 75-100 million? He definitly deserves it and LA fans want it. If he isn't signed by LA, fans will never be able to forgive management and the top dogs for letting him go...Show Manny The MONEY LA!!!

Amy Nelson

  (10:38 AM)

because the mccourts are rumored to be having serious cash problems, and they don't want to pay a 37-year-old for the next five years. i don't blame them at all ... they're hedging that manny's market isn't all that. and if they lose that bet, then dodger fans have a right to be upset...but i think it's the right move for now.

Mike (New Jersey)

i think ty law is a great addition to any team. however i think he will struggle to get back in the flow of the game physically and mentaly. i think they should start him at a nickelback for the first 2 games.

Randy (Foxboro)

Look man, the onlky reason Im not joggin through my route and walking off the field with :30 left in the half is becuase Brady's coming back next yar.

Amy Nelson

  (10:40 AM)

randy that was kind of a low blow to yourself...

Paul (Indianapolis, IN)

Maybe if the dodgers can fix last years mistake and trade away Andrew Jones they could afford to keep Manny who will make them more money at the gate then they will end up paying him.

Amy Nelson

  (10:40 AM)

that would be a start. but they might have a hard time giving away jones...

Zach St. Louis

Let's all remember who Jones ran for 3 touchdowns against last week and not get too excited about this Thursday. Two completely different teams I promise.

Old Lady (Anywhere, USA)

Where is the Cash for Gold commercials? I want to see myself on the TV.

Amy Nelson

  (10:41 AM)

old lady. i guarantee you'll see yourself in t-minus 8 minutes

Adam Griffith (Tampa, FL)

Manny single handedly put those bums in the playoffs

Josh (Orrville, OH)

Ty Law is a great addition to the Jets, but I would have loved to see the Browns sign him, but I guess the Browns don't think there secondary needs any help.

Adam (Columbus, OH)

You bring up a good point Randy. How many more years of productivity do you have left? Marvin fell off pretty quickly in Indy...

Dave (Spring Hill, FL)

With guaranteed contracts, nobody should give Manny five years. We all know he plays hard when HE wants to. After the ink dries on the contract, he can shut it down whenever he wants. We already had proof of that.

Amy Nelson

  (10:41 AM)

i thought it was telling that the day after the season ended, he didn't speak to reporters. what does that tell you?

Brian (Illinois)

Randy, dont count on Tom Brady being back!! He may be playing, but that injury may take him a good part of next season before he feels right.

Amy Nelson

  (10:42 AM)

i agree. i think it could be quite awhile before we see brady back on the field. and even longer before he regains his form. that may never fully happen

Jazmin (Philadelphia)

Amy, I didn't realize I could only post on one topic. I'm sick of the Eagles being the story on Monday and never again, its what keeps Andy Reid in his job with no changes. I posted because we never continue to report on the same story that should be discussed continually unless its the Cowboys or the Patriots. Want something about the Jets/Patriots? Never underestimate Brett Favre. The Patriots of today aren't the team that won 3 championships, so they shouldn't be considered some dynasty. They're about as much of a dynasty as Dallas is today. They both have great histories, but those rosters aren't on the field right now.

Amy Nelson

  (10:43 AM)

i jusr didn't know what you were talking about...

Amy Nelson

  (10:43 AM)

btw, not to switch topics (we often do here) but do people think charlie weis should be fired?

Paul (Indianapolis, IN)

Amy i think a box of cracker jacks for Andrew Jones would be a fair trade right now. They could seal the deal by agreeing to pay half of his salary on top of receiving the cracker jacks in return for Jones.

Jeremey(Louiville,KY.)

Amy. I want you to remember i said this that Longoria got rookie of the year, but Alexi will be the better overall player. Carlos Quentin caused the Whitesox a pennant and Alexi rookie of the year.

Amy Nelson

  (10:44 AM)

noted. and i think you mean "costed"

Bryan (Reno, NV)

Charlie Weiss should be given one more year, if he leads the Fighting Irish to a record below .500, then he should be sent back to Foxboro.

Amy Nelson

  (10:45 AM)

dont know if they'd take him back

Josh (Mcallen, Tx)

I agree Amy, Weis isnt getting the heat he deserves...The only season he did good was with Quinn, and to top it off the team wasn't his recruits.

Amy Nelson

  (10:45 AM)

isn't that part of the problem? he's not a great recruiter?

L.L. (New York, N.Y.)

That's a fair trade, Paul. I'm still waiting for the "Eddy Curry for the bag of Cheez Doodles" trade to make Stephen A. Smith and myself ecstatic.

Chris (East Lansing)

If Ty Willingham deserved to be fired, I don't see why Charlie Weiss should keep his job. We see coaches jump from NCAA to NFL and fail miserably. Why shouldn't the reverse be true.

Zac (Morgantown, WV)

Amy! Nice moves on Mike and Mike earlier to the Manny song!!

Amy Nelson

  (10:48 AM)

thanks for the dancing love

Matt (AZ)

If Willingham is going down on the West coast, Weis should be going down at Notre Dame. Expectations are too high. Weis still hasnt won a bowl game with them either.

Adam (Columbus, OH)

The BCS system has killed Notre Dame. And the Irish will never get back to the national title talk without joining either the Big East (like their other teams) or the Big Ten (since they use out refs anyway)

Eugene (Rockford IL)

Charlie Weiss should have never been hired & if it wasn't for Brady Quinn peole would really see that he's not a good coach just a coordinator

John (Cleveland)

Weiss should join Pete Carroll and rebuild S.F.

Chris (Plainsboro, NJ)

amy amy, how can you say he is not a good recruiter? he consistantly puts up Top 5-10 classes in his time at ND, this year ESPN/Scouts Inc has them at 5 or 6 I believe...and mind you, this is all with higher academic standards than ANY of his competitors

Amy Nelson

  (10:50 AM)

ok, i just thought there was a little bit of a bad rap on him when it came down to talking to families and recruiting. that he lost kids when it came down to that part of the process...i could be wrong, college fb isn't my sport, but i thought that was the rap on him

Tom (River North)

Personally, I hope Weis stays at Notre Dame throughout his contract. I enjoy watching them lose game after game.

julio (nj)

i just wanted to say hello to jay, we had a great championship series

Tyler (Utah)

Come on AMY! Show Sloan some love for 1000 wins.

Buzzmaster (Espn Studios)

Amy, you took away the main chat page from me today... Its WAR!!!

Amy Nelson

  (10:51 AM)

bring it on buzzy!

skippskipp (tennessee)

higher academic than vandy ? they do raise doctors there

James (Michigan)

Expectations are high because of their past sucesses. They have great traditions of winning, and it just hasn't happened consistently in about 15 years.

Rob (Lewistown, PA)

How exactly can you blame the BCS for ND's losses? That's interesting.

James (Syracuse, NY)

He has a huge buy out. He signed a long term extension and the school can not afford the buy out so Notre Dame is stuck with Weiss for a few more years before they can consider letting him go.

jesse (Acworth)

well the 4-8 records aren't helping ND win a championship either

Coop (NC)

I hope they keep Weis there because I enjoy seeing Notre Dame get what they deserve. Loss after loss after loss. Everyone said that it was foolish to sign him for that long and they have to live with it.

Allen (San Diego, CA)

Notre Dame won't even win a bowl game under Weis, let alone win a championship.

Jeff (Chandler, AZ)

The problem that I have with Weis is that his signature "win" is a loss to USC in 2005. That got him his contract, now he has done absolutely nothing to prove he is worthy of it.

Chris (East Lansing)

ND has the boosters to buy out that contract if they want to. Recruiting is a small part of the equation. I can go out and get 6 prime steaks, but if all I can do is burn them, it doesn't matter. He's setting the kitchen on fire.

Amy Nelson

  (10:58 AM)

good one chris...that's going on the air...

AL (victorville, Ca)

Charlie Weis has done an excellent job recruiting. Its not his fault his players don't play to their potential. Most of their players were top high school prospects entering college. What more can you ask for?

Juan (San Antonio, TX)

The problem is "who wants to live in 'Po-dunk South Bend?'" Top athletes want to be in Florida, So-Cal, South Texas (close to the Gulf). They don't want to be stuck in the heart of the Mid-west!

Amy Nelson

  (11:01 AM)

sorry not buying that argument at all.

Josh (Orrville, OH)

Can Skip say anything good about Lebron. He's playing out of his mind right now and he has his team on a five game winning streak. Skip if Lebron wins the MVP will you give him a complement????

Amy Nelson

  (11:01 AM)

never!

Allen (San Diego, CA)

ND has a very rich contract with NBC also, so where's all that money allocated. It should be allocated in the BUY OUT CHARLIE WEIS CAMPAIGN in South Bend after this season!

Mike (Ohio)

Can't shed any tears for ND. That's what they get for rewarding Charlie after he won his first year with Ty's players.

Rick Majerus (UTAH)

I don't see what is rong with pulling your pants down in a locker room. Leave the niners head coach alone.

Keith (Atlanta)

What's the deal with the lack of coverage for the Hawks? We have beaten 5 playoff teams from a year ago on our way to 6-0. I have seen no highlights and barely a mention until JA Andande mentioned them on Around The Horn Yesterday. This team is for real if you have watched the games you would know that too. I can only imagine what will happen tonight if we so happen to lose to Boston tonight. I'm sure we will get on all your shows then, asking the question are they fake? Do all of America a favor and talk about the entire NBA community besides Lebron, Kobe and the Lakers, Paul and the Hornets, all the Spurs are going through. We all get tired of seeing the same teams on National TV every week and every year. Nobody likes to watch the Spurs, BORING!!! Let's give each team a fair shake, some of America would like to see the other teams too like the Kings, Grizzles, etc. And of course the Hawks!!

Amy Nelson

  (11:05 AM)

Keith, We had Joe Johnson and Josh Smith on First Take last Wednesday. I understand your feelings about Kobe/Lebron talk all the time, but the Hawks havent been ignored.

Carlos, (Florida)

Buy out Charlie Weis and hire Joe Montana or at least ask him if he would like to coach this joke of a team.

Ed Hochuli (Chat Ref)

That's a personal foul against Keith from Atlanta, using "we" when he's not on the team, 15 yards and repeat 3rd down.

Amy Nelson

  (11:06 AM)

thanks Ed

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Face it, Notre Dame is living on it's ancient history. The football program has become second rate and won't get respect because they are an Independent scheduling 5-6 games each year that should be easy wins just so they can qualify for the McCarthy Tires and Breaks Bowl played in Shrievport, LA. Find a legitimate college coach and join a conference, ND!

Joshua (FL)

Golic had a tantrem earlier today regarding the high quality of recruiting classes that are independently rated. Even if he isn't the best recruiter, Weiss has had good players. He needs a short leash for next season, and barring significant improvement in the W-L department, should be fired. This is a perfect example of why I hate massive contract extensions for coaches. Unless your name is Joe Pa or Bobby Bowden, you won't be able to complete the term.

Phil Phx. Az

How can Brandon Webb, get only 4 1st place cy young votes when he won 22 games this past season? No one wins 20 games anymore he won 22. I think it actually hurt that he was on a contending team and had some bad starts at the end of the season.

Amy Nelson

  (11:07 AM)

Well my choice was Santana ... but his lack of wins and fewer stirkeouts is what hurt him. Otherwise I think he would have won. Wins are overrated.

James (Michigan)

Keith is right. They Hawks are doing great and not getting the credit they deserve. They took the celtics to the brink last year, and should have won if it wasn't the NBA wanting the Lakers/Celtics finals. They are the team to beat in the east right now, and without Josh Smith.

Amy Nelson

  (11:08 AM)

you mean childress?

Chris (East Lansing)

I wouldn't be upset about the Hawks not getting coverage (although they are getting a good portion) The longer a team like that can go under the radar, the better. With coverage comes pressure, and you want the pressure off for as much of a 82 game season as possible.

Matt (AZ)

Is there really any argument towards Tim Lincecum winning the Cy Young? I am a D-Backs guy, but Lincecum's strikeouts, winning percentage in comparison to the team, and ERA made him the right pick.

Jesse. Acworth

Or maybe it was the fact Webb lagged far behind Santana and Lincecum in every stat that measure how well a pitcher actually pitches.

Jesse. Acworth

No, Josh Smith (who has only missed 2 games so far) but see how the next 3 weeks go without him.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Agreed on the NL CY Young Amy. Any great pitcher joining the Mets will almost automatically lose 5-7 wins from his record due to the bullpen.

Vince Lombardi (Heaven)

Winning isn't everything, it's the only thing!

Kevin (Arlington, VA)

Mr. Hochuli, that's the first good call you've made this year!

Carlos, (Florida)

I think Johan Santana should have won the Cy young. He pitched tons of quality games for the Mets only to have the bullpen blow them. He made 34 starts and had 11 No decisions. If they would have won half of those No decisions his record may have been about 22-1. What do you think about that Amy?

Amy Nelson

  (11:12 AM)

yes agree

Tyler Utah

I am so sick of N.D. and the weis story

Kevin (Arlington, VA)

Way to go Amy!!! Santana had the lowest ERA, and won just as many crucial games at the end of the season as Sabathia. If Mets relievers hadn't blown so many saves, he would have won 20 games and the Mets wouldv'e been playoff bound.

Carlos, (Florida)

The only reason Johan didnt win was because all those blown saves the Mets bullpen had. His record may have been like 22-1 if they win half those no decisions.

Josh (Orrville, OH)

the hawks are the team to beat in the east? last i checked the celtics won the east last year and they have started this season with only one loss. just cause your team has started undefeated in the first 6 games doesn't mean they are at the top of the confrence. talk to me in april and may and you might be in the conversation.

James (Michigan)

Lincecum was a good choice, but you are all right. There is a good argument for any of them to win it. They all did great and it was a tough one to decide.

skippskipp (tennessee)

i dont know , lincecum won plenty with a horrid giants team ..johan least had a team backing him up

Jesse. Acworth

If you wanna complain about MLB voting, can we have the name of the 3 guys who vote for Edison Volquez for ROY, despite not being eligible.. they need to have their voting privileges revoked.

Amy Nelson

  (11:15 AM)

ugh. not a shining moment.

Amy Nelson

  (11:15 AM)

they wouldn't have, had they read my profile on volquez earlier this season (shameless plug, I know)

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Actually Brad Lidge might have had a pretty good claim on the NL Cy Young Award, wouldn't he Amy?

Amy Nelson

  (11:16 AM)

you have no shot if you're a reliver unless you break a record, for the most part

Adam (Columbus, OH)

BCS games on cable only?! Say it ain't so!

L.L. (New York, N.Y.)

One other thing with Johan Santana, he had such high expectations with the contract and the trade where Tim Lincecum was in a situation with low expectations. Even if Santana was the better pitcher, he wouldn't have had as much love. It's the same thing when Karl Malone won the 1997 NBA MVP because the writers were tired of voting for Michael Jordan.

John (Philly)

Yea, i agree with lincecum, he didn't exactly have the greatest bullpen behind him either. He lost a bunch of wins too.

Jesse. Acworth

Please stop quoting wins!! they have almost no bearing on how well a pitcher actually pitches (see Hernandez, Livan and Cain, Matt)

Steve Ny

Amy what is Rob talking about when he says fire charlie weis. the man signed a ten year contract and he is not even half way through yet. this is the first time in the history of the show i am agreeing with skip and it hurts to do it. but it seems like no has patience nemore.

Phil Phx. Az

Ok I'm convinced, Santana should have won the cy young

Chris (East Lansing)

Haha. Don't think they got that 6 steaks out of context of our chat. I love the confusion on Skip's face.

Amy Nelson

  (11:24 AM)

he had no idea. they listen in waves any way...

Wesley (Olney, MD

I am a big Notre Dame fan, and I think it is ludacris to fire Weis, I also didn't agree with the firing of Willingham, but looking at weis recruiting class next, with players like Cierre Wood, and Shaq Evans, the ceiling is through the roof. Go Irish

Kevin (Arlington, VA)

Steve, where was the patience for Ty Willingham?

Joe O, Colonia, NJ

Ask Mr. Velvet Rob just what is Ty doing these days? Renting a U-Haul perhaps?

Mike (Brooklyn)

There's absolutely no way Brad Lidge should have won the Cy Young. Saves is the most overrated statistic in baseball, and when a guy pitches just 69 innings and has a WHIP above 1.225 in that role, he is coming nowhere close to having a "Cy Young" type impact on his team. Lidge had a very nice year, but nothing close historic.

Amy Nelson

  (11:25 AM)

agreed.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Skip listens?

James (Michigan)

Weis needs to go, unfortunately ND owes him too much money so they have to deal with their mistake for now.

Allen (San Diego, CA)

They always say there is money problems. San Diego is having money problems. A-Rod, Barry Bonds both were signed until they were 42. Manny is the most dependable postseason baseball player in the past 20 years. The money and Manny will bring another World Series to LA. The fans need to account for something. We pay to see Manny. If we're mannyless this season, us Dodger fans will never be able to forgive the ownership family.

Amy Nelson

  (11:26 AM)

not a padres fan Allen?

Matt bryant monpeiler ohio

hi amy i think that collage should have a playoff system so they do not have to deal with the computer system for the bcs standins

Amy Nelson

  (11:27 AM)

you and a million other people...this is deabted each year to no avail

Kevin (Arlington, VA)

Ian Johnson has been @ Boise State for 16 years!

Amy Nelson

  (11:27 AM)

seriously...

Tyler Utah

The Utes are coming BCS busting. The Mountain West Confrence should be part of the BCS anyways. It is a conspiracy!

Joe O, Colonia, NJ

Amy, I have to admit you look like you came out of "The Wire" withdrawl center well!

Amy Nelson

  (11:28 AM)

my new fix is "true blood" it's campy, sure, but i'm into it. i even bought the book...it's no wire. nothing ever will be.

Jeremy A. Brgham City, UT

College football for you Amy. Out of the undefeated teams, who do you see making the biggest waves in the BCS? I'm from Utah, and am crossing my fingers for UofU. What is your opinion?

Amy Nelson

  (11:29 AM)

i think we just reached our utah reader quota for the day...

skippskipp (tennessee)

well the only thing i would be weary of in a playoff system is something like a harrell or tebow going down with major injury 3rd game into playoffs leaving questions on draft status etc etc

Shane Iowa

Trueblood is a HORRIBLE show!! I wouldn't expect to be watching it long because I can't see it sticking around.

Amy Nelson

  (11:31 AM)

respectfully disagree, though i can see why people don't like it. it's a bit campy...

Kevin (Arlington, VA)

"True Blood" just started getting really good. Just rented Season 1 of the Wire...WOW. It was awesome, does it get better?

Amy Nelson

  (11:32 AM)

um...YES. season four is my favorite. season two is a divider. some people love it; others hate it. I appreciated it much more when i watched it over after season 4...

Jeremy A. Brigham City, UT

HAHA, so I'm guessing you don't see Utah going very far. The nation can talk about Boise State, but when the Utes come up, it's just a sham. They've made big bowl games the past few years, and have won some pretty favorable games.

Paul Ski , Beaufort, SC

Would San Francisco have finished 4th place in the worst division in baseball without Tim Lincecum? Probably...if not, then last place...either way, no playoffs, no Cy Young. A Brad Lidge-less Phillies squad would be in the same boat as the Giants this year. If Gagne's 2003 Dodgers team had as much offense as the Phillies did this year, he wouldn't have had as many save opportunities. Lidge for Cy Young.

nick (athens, ga)

i don't think we'll see a playoff system for a while unless we have a repeat of the 2004 auburn fiasco. money talks, and the powers that be love to listen.

James (Michigan)

The playoff system should be based off the top ten or twelve teams in the poles at the end of the system. Go from there an adjust it as needed. That would get everyone who deserves it to have a chance at winning it all.

L.L. (New York, N.Y.)

Ms. Nelson, the Lakers-Hornets game gets its own topic on 1st and 10 but the Hawks-Celtics game doesn't get any love. I really think America is still selling the Atlanta Hawks short. Will a victory over the Boston Celtics get them on 1st down?

Amy Nelson

  (11:34 AM)

good question. i would think so...

Daniel (GA)

I agree with skippskipp, but it would also be interesting to watch a Big 12 team play a team that actually plays defense for one or two weeks, see if they could actually score 50 points a game.

Wayne (Virginia)

TO on Letterman? Who's next....Chad Johnson?

Amy Nelson

  (11:35 AM)

why not?

Joe (Aston, PA)

How are saves overrated, the last 3 outs in a baseball game are the toughest to get, especially in the playoffs. All the pressure is on the pither and the hitters are more focused than any other time in the game. It takes a special type of pitcher to close. Ask the mets how overrated saves are.

Amy Nelson

  (11:36 AM)

oh man, it's a good thing i'm not jim caple hosting this chat. he wrote a ranting column on how much saves are overrated...

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

If they institute a playoff system, they need to have eight BCS conferences. Each conference champion (determined in a conference championship game) gets into the playoffs. It should be simple but the almighty dollar and the schools most likely won't buy it.

rob (lewistown, pa)

A playoff system of 10-12 teams is too large and would add too many weeks to the schedule. 8 may even be too many. Take the top 4, place them in the BCS bowls, then have the winners play the following week in the top BCS bowl of the year. This only adds one game.

Chris (Boaz, AL)

Just cause I said this about last year with Miami and New England...and was wrong...Detroit beats Titans by 2 touchdowns...

James (Michigan)

Every year there is an argument why someone got into the championship game and why someone else should have. A playoof system solves that. Four more weeks of games would bring in a ton more money for the schools and the powers that be would love that.

Jasmine (Philadelphia)

Amy, bite your tongue, Season 2 is EXCELLENT! The entire series is superb, something to love about every season, even if I thought it feel off a bit, still superior to most TV.

Jesse. Acworth

Saves are overrated becasue people look at the number of saves, K-rod got alot of pub this year for his saves but he was about the 5 or 6th best reliver in the majors.

Kevin (Arlington, VA)

The team with the best bullpen in baseball won the World Series. Tampa Bay beat Boston largely because of David Price and their bullpen...how are Saves overrated. Not Cy Young worthy, but not overrated either.

Chris (East Lansing)

Saves are overrated because they are situational, fleeting, and while there is plenty of pressure on the saver, there is as much or even more pressure on the batters. I'd rather be charged with getting the last 3 outs than the first 18 or 21. The batters won't see you more than once to figure you out that night.

Joe O, Colonia, NJ

Amy, I am I getting this right? You actually danced with "The Gnome"? I think Marcellus has gotten his head swelled in L.A.!

Amy Nelson

  (11:41 AM)

yep the gnome asked me to bust it so i did...got to perform when the lights are on

Chris (Plainsboro, NJ)

First off, a playoff does not prevent people complaining about not gettting in. We allow sixty five (65!) teams into the NCAA tournament, and still have TV shows about who DIDN'T get in. Second of all, how would we go about seeding the playoff teams? Would we use the BCS computer system for that? Isn't that going to promote the same arguments for rankings? Let's just leave the BCS the way it is, it plays itself out a lot of the time, there is not a perfect solution.

Rob (Philly)

Season two is probably he worst, but thats like saying which supermodel out of a group is ugliest.

Amy Nelson

  (11:42 AM)

like i said, there's a big split in opinion over season 2. for my money, i think season 5 is by far the worst.

Jeremy A. Brigham City, UT

Amy. I seem to have lost my heart. Can you give it back please? The wire is amazing. Oh and what do you have to say about Ricky Williams for this season? I know many people didn't agree with the Dolphin's giving him another chance.

Amy Nelson

  (11:43 AM)

there's a wire fan living in utah?

Jeremy A. Brigham City, UT

My self and a group of my friends are all fans of the wire. I'd say season 1 or 4 would be my favorite. I actually have the first 3 on my computer.

mike - los angeles via south jersey

what was historic about Lidge's season was the he did not blow a save. i am a diehard Phillies fan, but he shouldn't have won the CY.

Wayne (Virginia)

What happened to Sage Steele? She's been on, like 1 show in the last 2 months..

Amy Nelson

  (11:46 AM)

she moved over to sportscenter

Wayne (Virginia)

I think Skip should appear in an episode of "Curb Your Enthusiam" and get in an argument w/Larry.....Great show, by the way.

Amy Nelson

  (11:46 AM)

that'd be enteratining...

Jack Bauer (LA)

Who cares about those other shows. I'm coming back so that means all of those 24 ripoffs run and hide in fear. EVERYBODY DOWN!!!

Kevin (Arlington, VA)

Amy, where is the love for the Giants/Ravens game this weekend? Two division leaders that have won 3 in-a-row, going head to head! Big game baby!

Rob (Philly)

Your right Amy, season 5 is the worst. But season four in the best season of television I have ever watched, simply incredible.

Amy Nelson

  (11:48 AM)

totally agree.

Jesse. Acworth

oh by the way 11 conferences in NCAA football - 5 wildcards based on BCS rankings ...4 week playoff ..

Josh (Orrville, OH)

chris the BCS hardly ever plays itself out. since 2002, there has only been one national championship game that has featured the two "best" teams. they were ohio state v. miami in '02 and usc v. texas in '05. thats only two years out of how many that the two "BEST" teams played.

Amy Nelson

  (11:50 AM)

anyone see T.O's performance on letterman? i thought it was pretty good

James (Michigan)

Josh has it right. The BCS has onl gotten it right twice.

James (Michigan)

I just can't wait to see what Skip says about Team Obliterator. I think the Cowboys would be better without him.

Jesse. Acworth

letme guess, Skip hated it. and thought he "Team oblierated" Letterman for all time!

L.L. (New York, N.Y.)

Terrell Owens's performance was pretty good. Still, his game better step up against the Washington Redskins on Sunday or he'll be burned for that appearance.

Josh (Orrville, OH)

i thought it was awsome. i think skip should go on letterman with t.o. and have a top ten list as why they are both overrated.

TO

You see I think if Letterman would have let me talk a little more we would have gotten more ratings...I'm a playmaker that's what I do!!

Josh (Orrville, OH)

I wouldn't be suprised if skip thinks that Letterman is overrated.

James (Michigan)

He might of been funny, but on the field I don't think he is as relevant as he once was.

Joe O, Colonia, NJ

The crying part was the best.

Amy Nelson

  (11:54 AM)

agreed

Amy Nelson

  (11:55 AM)

wow skip agrees he was very good

Skip (ESPN)

It's the only way TO can get some screen time because he certainly hasn't show up on the field.

Jeremy A. Brigham City, UT

I've never been a fan of TO in the media. He's emotional, and sometimes that's good for in the locker room. I do have to agree that his performance on Letterman was quite ammusing.

Amy Nelson

  (11:56 AM)

ok guys we'll have to wrap it up for today. thanks everyone for writing in.