NFL Vagabond

Anthony Armstrong with the Miami Dolphins (photo via Anthony Armstrong)

Maybe Now Anthony Armstrong Can Stop Traveling.

As a travel and sports writer, I feel pretty damn confident in my packing abilities. At least until I talked to an NFL vagabond and got the skinny on his packing capabilities, which kind of put mine to shame. It was already apparent he could school me on running routes and perfecting the slant, but packing too?

Meet Anthony Armstrong, Wide Receiver, who’s just signed back up with Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys . Although he’s home in Dallas for the time being, his location on his Twitter bio is pretty telling: “Mostly here, never there.”

Having joined the NFL in , Armstrong has already found a place on four different rosters: Washington, Miami, Jacksonville and most recently his hometown in Dallas. If I were any good at math, I could tell you the percentage that equates to, alas I am not. Finding himself not only in a new uniform and a new city, Armstrong has learned that if he gets one of those career-changing calls (being traded or released), he doesn’t have a lot of time to make the move. “Every time I get a phone call to move, the max I have to get on a flight is about four hours. That means you only have four hours to pack for what you hope to be a very long time,” Armstrong says.

When we talked, at the end of last year, Armstrong admitted to feeling at home with his new team, led by Tony Romo, where he’d be used on offense and special teams. “It feels great, this is my hometown team – the team I grew up watching. It’s kind of one of those childhood dreams for playing for your hometown team,” Armstrong admits. “I’m just happy to be home around my family and friends, just excited for the opportunity,” he says.

Most of the players we hear about on a regular basis (i.e. Andre Johnson, Ray Lewis) have pretty long tenure with their teams, but the path Armstrong has been on for a few seasons is more common than we think. “Honestly I didn’t expect it [being released from Jacksonville]. I went in expecting to go to work and they had to let me go. It was a numbers game, they had to assign other personnel to another position, I just happened to be the odd man out. Gene Smith was adamant that I hadn’t done anything wrong, I was brand new and they had injuries and I ended up being the one they had to release to fill those needs on special teams,” Armstrong explains.

The potential of being released is something that’s on player’s minds all the time. “You have to be aware of it all the time. Being naïve or thinking you’re too good…everyone is replaceable in this business,” Armstrong admits. “It makes me work harder so there aren’t any questions left out there like ‘Can we operate without this guy?’ Coming in midseason the coaches have less of you to watch so you have to make a stronger position,” he says.

Armstrong believes what’s more interesting than his recent travel patterns in the NFL is his actual path into the league. “I took the path less traveled, or probably not traveled at all,” he laughs. “I played a little flag football to stay in shape and got the itch to play again. I played a season with the Odessa Roughnecks for $200/game. We had training camp in the parking lot. It was pretty small time, but it was an opportunity to play the game I loved and keep going. From there, I went to an open workout and caught the eyes of Will McClay [head coach of Dallas Desperados, which is also owned by the Jones family] who brought me in for a workout and I eventually made that roster. After two seasons, I got an opportunity with the Miami Dolphins then got on to Washington,” Armstrong recalls.

Still, being a part of four teams in just five years is a pretty daunting career ladder to continuously climb. Can you imagine changing high school four times? You’d never have anyone to sit with in the lunch room. As someone who went to the same school from sixth grade until my senior year, I sure as hell can’t imagine that much moving around.

“I get along with people well, I can fit in with everybody,” Armstrong admits. The most frustrating part for him? The traveling.

“I’ve lived out of a suitcase for three months now. You’re always changing; a lot of people think playing in the NFL is all glitz and glam all the time, but the truth is you can lose your job in an instant and then have to move across the country and start from scratch. It can be frustrating in that you’re expected to show up day 1 and play at a high-level like you’ve been there all summer with that team. In a sense it’s not very fair but it’s the nature of the business – this is what I wanted to do all my life because I’m happiest on the field running routes,” Armstrong explains.

“Of course you always want to be with one team and get a nice contract and stay there for a while but you have to understand that to keep this opportunity you may have to move somewhere at the drop of a hat,” he continues.

I asked Armstrong for permission to be a little girly for a minute and talk about his travel. What the hell do you pack with only a four-hour window to pack and hightail it to the airport and to do so for four months?

Laughing, Armstrong obliges my girly question veering off football for a moment.

“Lets see, the first time I had to go to Washington from Miami and I just packed sweatshirts to keep me warm, and suits and dress shoes to travel in. I try to consolidate everything into one bag. I do take my playstation with me – that’s one thing I have to travel with all the time. You do a lot of recycling of clothes – I try not to wear the same thing over and over but you don’t really have much of a choice if you’re hopping from team to team,” Armstrong says. “You need to keep it basic – get yourself some jeans, a simple t-shirt, a jacket, and just something to cover up your shirt if you have to wear it three days straight,” he laughs.

Speaking of not being all the glitz and glam we all imagine the NFL to be, the 29-year-old wide receiver is now back home living with his mom. “My friends joke me but I’ve been blessed with that opportunity –I haven’t been home in five years, so this is nice. I make sure to stay out of her way and let her do her thing, and not be a hassle,” the good son explains.

Although it’s a difficult question to ask, you have to wonder if after so much trading around and being released here and there if Armstrong starts to lose faith in his football abilities.

Armstrong and his inspirational mother (photo via Anthony Armstrong)

“I just keep plugging away, it’s something that I learned from my mother and that’s where I find my motivation and inspiration,” Armstrong explains. “Growing up she never complained and worked long hours, but she always found a way to provide and make it to our games. I know that whenever I’m out there, training and playing or if I’m hurt, I think about her. Hopping from team to team is a part of the business that some people have to experience and I’m blessed for this opportunity and will continue to make the best out of it,” Armstrong says optimistically.

Shortly after our interview, Armstrong was released from the Dallas Cowboys on December 22, to make room for guard Ronald Leary, in hopes of helping their playoff chances. It seems the numbers game had taken Armstrong’s dream of playing for his hometown team…until today. The Cowboys just signed the WR along with nine others to see what they can do. But fans already know he’ll pack like a champ and work his tail off to prove he belongs on squad.

This post is part of The Blonde Side’s Momentum Challenge series to interview one active player from all 32 NFL Teams within the short time frame of 34 days. Anthony Armstrong and his old/new home in Dallas cross the Dallas Cowboys off the list. This series (sadly), has come to a close and The Blonde Side did not meet the goal of all 32 interviews. Oh well, valiant effort, yes?

To see this full article in its original format, check out CBS Man Cave Daily.

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This One Time, At Band Camp

The Man in the Band, Greg Scruggs (photo via Greg Scruggs)

The famous line from American Pie will live on forever in our minds. But instead of picturing that squeaky little redhead (played by Alyson Hannigan), picture for a moment a 6-foot-3, 284lb guy padded up in a Seahawks uniform. Doesn’t conjure up quite the same image now, does it?

Meet Greg Scruggs, Defensive End for the Seattle Seahawks and former band nerd. Or band geek. Or breakout star athlete who just so happened to be in the band? Yeah, that’s it.

Together we decided to debunk the myth of band geeks once and for all. Sure, there are geeks who play instruments for fun, even on the weekends when there’s a raging house party next door. But there are also nerdy athletes, even Olympians.

“My ‘band thing’ is really my only hidden talent. The big myth that everybody in the band is a geek – that’s kind of a socially created myth,” says Scruggs. “People fail to realize that someone might play the flute, clarinet or the drums, but that doesn’t change who they are. I knew early on if I was going to be in the band, I was going to bring ‘cool’ to the band,” Scruggs laughs.

“I was unique and different because being in the band was something I did to have fun, to release stress and create emotion. I still played basketball, got recruited in college [for football] and was still considered ‘cool’ by others. My band director and I singlehandedly changed the direction of our program – we were strictly a competition band when I started, but then we decided we wanted to hype and entertain the crowd. My high school band to this day is a show band – people don’t look at them as nerds or geeks. I wasn’t the brightest – to this day I can’t read music. I went out there and made it fun. I was the only black kid in my band – there were only 37 minorities out of 1500 in my school, and that made me stick out even more. It gave me a determination to dispel that rumor about band geeks. I think it’s ridiculous. If people stepped away from this socially perceived myth, they’d realize people in the band are actually pretty cool,” Scruggs says.

But surely you can understand why some folks draw the parallel between bands and geeks, I asked?

Seattle Seahawks DE, Greg Scruggs (photo via Greg Scruggs)

“Take Dan Lewis, class president of my high school for example,” Scruggs explains. “He was the biggest comedian in school and he was in the marching band. You don’t become class president if you’re not cool or popular, do you?” Scruggs counters. “He made everybody crack up and they always wanted to be around him, and he was in the band.”

Point taken. What about a nerdy athlete, surely you know a few?

“Luke Kuechly,” Scruggs says laughing.

“People see him on the field and he’s this dominant football player, but in school he walked around with his pants a little too high. He was always studying, all he cared about was school – he was a dork – he didn’t go out, didn’t party, but people see him on the football field and assume he’s got this cool factor,” Scruggs says.

Did you just call Kuechly, the ninth overall pick and linebacker for the Carolina Panthers, a dork? “He’s younger than me so I can talk about him like that,” Scruggs laughs. “He’s cool but sports don’t make you cool just like an instrument doesn’t make you a nerd, you know?”

Speaking of cool dudes that play instruments, it seems the drummer from John Mayer’s band, Steve Jordan, is at the top of Scruggs’ list.

“I listen to all kinds of music. To say I have a favorite drummer is tough. I listen to everything from Marilyn Manson, which is like the south pole of music, to Waka Flocka [Flame], the north pole. I guess if you go east, I really like Zac Brown Band and Jason Aldean, and west I’d go with Darius Rucker or pop like John Mayer,” Scruggs says of his musical compass. Scruggs admits he’s also big into classical music like Stevie Wonder and just downloaded James Brown #1 hits on his iPod a few days ago.

Scruggs, born in 1990 and barely of drinking age, admits he likes musical talent that’s “been around for a while.”

The 6-foot-3 defensive end didn’t play football until his senior year in high school (Xavier High School in Cincinnati), but somehow found his way onto a Division 1 football team (Louisville) after graduating high school. People train their whole lives just for the chance to play football at a big level, how on earth were you even on anyone’s radar, I asked him? “It was a process. My high school coach played a huge role and luckily the scouts came. I blossomed my junior year [college] thanks to my coach. Coach Hurtt molded me into this player and set me out to go train, working on my explosiveness and things like that. I worked hard, let it all go and it was out of my hands. That doesn’t take away from those that have trained their whole lives – it was mostly a blessing, but it was hard work, training, and coaching,” Scruggs admits.

If band members aren’t cool, then why are they wearing sunglasses? Answer THAT, America!

I’ve talked to a lot of players that say their skill is a blessing, I told him. Do you really think it is?

“Well, my oldest brother isn’t nearly as athletic as I am,” he laughs. “I think it’s an ability I was blessed with since it doesn’t necessarily run in the family.”

So you were a late bloomer in high school as far as getting on the football field, and you were the Seahawks final selection in the 2012 draft. Is the motto it’s better late than never part of your everyday mantra, I asked him?

“It’s definitely gratifying considering I didn’t even play football until I was a senior in high school, so I’m grateful to have been picked. There were 10,000 eligible players this year and only around 200 were picked, so I’d say I’m in pretty good company. Not only to get picked, but to play and lead the team in sacks in preseason. Am I a 7th round talent? I don’t think so. To go in the 7th made me a little angry, but I knew it was a blessing. I was just waiting around all day because I didn’t know if or when I’d get called. I could have been playing the drums or Call of Duty instead of being glued to the TV all day,” Scruggs jokes.

As for Scruggs, he’s still playing on the field, but hasn’t forgotten his drummer roots. “You never forget how to play, I still do what I can. The Seahawks have a band and I played with them once. That was pretty cool,” he says.

So next time you want to pick on someone in the band, remember the name Greg Scruggs. And then go buy yourself one of those “I’m in the band” t-shirts and wear it with pride.

Be sure to follow this band stud on Twitter: @G_Scruggs.

This post is part of The Blonde Side’s Momentum Challenge series to interview one active player from all 32 NFL Teams within the short time frame of 34 days. Greg Scruggs and his non-geek factor cross the Seattle Seahawks off the list.

To see this full article in its original format, check out CBS Man Cave Daily.

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Corey Peters Helps Kids Tackle Cancer

Corey Peters helping at The Rally Foundation (photo via The Rally Foundation)

Already named the 2012 NFC South Champs, the Atlanta Falcons are on a roll. Tied alongside the Houston Texans for the best record in the NFL (11-1), the Falcons may very well make their way to New Orleans on February 3rd for Super Bowl XLVII.

Many of these guys in the NFL realize it’s not only hard work on the field that pays off; it’s the hard work and dedication off the field that’s just as important. Corey Peters, defensive tackle for the Atlanta Falcons, takes just as much pride in his charity work with young kids as he does in his hard-hitting stats.

Peters, who signed his NFL contract on his birthday (June 8, 2010), is an avid supporter of Rally Foundation, a nonprofit, which started in a neighborhood driveway and has now found a place on the NFL stage. Rally Foundation has one mission: to raise money for childhood cancer research through grassroots initiatives.

“Signing my contract on my birthday was the realization of a dream come true. I’ve been incredibly blessed and I couldn’t be happier with this organization and the opportunities they’ve provided me. I won’t take that for granted for one second,” Peters says.

One of those opportunities is not only a starting position on the Falcons star-studded roster, but the chance to be part of organizations like Rally Foundation. You can look at Peters by the numbers and surely be impressed. He’s been in the league for three years. He’s 24 and has five tackles this season with a total of 64 in his NFL career to date. The University of Kentucky graduate wears #91, weighs 305lbs (on a good day) and has played in 37 games, most of which he’s started. Although he’s immensely proud of those numbers, there are other numbers he wanted to talk about during our interview – numbers that go well beyond tackles and touchdowns.

Click here to find out how you can help.

“The Rally Foundation is dedicated to raising money for cancer research for children – childhood cancer is the #1 killer in kids these days. I think it’s really important to help,” Peters says. According to the foundation’s website, one in every 330 Americans develop cancer before the age of twenty-one. On average, about 46 children are diagnosed with cancer every school day in the United States. On average, one in every four elementary schools has a child with cancer and the average high school has two students who are current or former cancer patients, according to the website’s FAQ’s.

“The thing that’s really important is that children’s cancer and adult cancer are two separate things – the research done for a type of cancer an adult would have is completely different than what a child would have; they don’t cross over. This particular charity only focuses on the kids,” Peters says about its personal appeal to him.

Peters, who began working with Rally back in June, currently serves as honorary chair for the spring fashion show, Rally On the Runway, which features girls that have fought or are fighting cancer. “I am a spokesperson in the Atlanta area [where the charity started]. It’s not in every city yet, but hopefully in the next few years we’ll have a spokesperson in each city and get the message out there,” Peters explains.

“These kids are just so special. They are so strong – so much stronger than they have to be at that age. They are the real heroes dealing with the hand they were dealt,” Peters says. “They are the pure of the pure and they don’t deserve any of this. Seeing their parents being strong for their kids – the foundation has done a great job and made a humongous stride to try and prevent future kids from having to go through this.”

When it comes to athletes giving back, Peters knows firsthand why it’s so important to pay it forward. “Nobody gets to where they are without help – that’s in anything you do in life, whether you’re an athlete or in a regular job. It’s always important to remember that. I’ve had my parents, teachers and coaches who have really given their time for free, just for the love of it. When you’re blessed with a platform as large as the NFL, I think it’s your responsibility to pay it forward. I believe God blesses everyone with a certain number of talents and it’s up to us to use them,” Peters says.

“I’m growing everyday, trying to do the right thing and lead by example,” Peters says of his efforts with Rally Foundation.

“These kids are so sweet and have such a pure enthusiasm. This is the least I could do to spend my time doing everything I can to put a smile on their faces. They always put a smile on my face, now it’s my turn,” Peters admits. “I get a whole new perspective on life, and I realize what I’m going through is really nothing.”

Speaking of tough, I imagine keeping this season’s record-setting pace has been a task. “It’s a long season and we’re in a good place right now. We just have to finish strong and hopefully make a good run at it in the playoffs,” Peters says.As for the toughest game(s) left on the schedule? “ The defending champs [the Giants] will always be tough,” Peters says of next week’s home matchup against Eli and the gang.

Aside from getting his playoff game face ready and volunteering with some of the best kids in all of Atlanta, Peters admits to taking some time and sleeping in on his days off when he can. He also admits his guilty pleasures when it comes to reality TV are The Real World and Bad Girls Club. “It’s bad TV but it’s interesting. It’s definitely dramaful,” Peters laughs.

When it comes to reality shows, Peters can’t help but watch teammate Kroy Biermann, in his Real Housewives of Atlanta cameos on Bravo. Biermann is married to Kim, who stars on the show and the guys horse around with him from time to time in the locker room. “There’s a fair amount of jokes but he doesn’t get it too bad. It could be worse,” Peters admits. “He’s a good guy, and they seem like they really enjoy each other. I watch it every week, mainly because he’s on it, but I used to watch it before then.”

Follow Corey Peters on Twitter.

This post is part of The Blonde Side’s Momentum Challenge series to interview one active player from all 32 NFL Teams within the short time frame of 34 days. Corey Peters and his helpful heart crosses the Atlanta Falcons off the list.

To see this full article in its original format, check out CBS Man Cave Daily.

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Hello Kitty

Antonio Garay’s Hello Kitty Smart Car (photo via Garay)

Hello Kitty has been good to Antonio Garay.

Hello Kitty! Two words you’d never think would describe an NFL player. Especially one weighing more than 320lbs, but those are two fitting words that accurately describe Antonio Garay (or at least his jokester personality), defensive tackle for the San Diego Chargers.

It took everything in my power not to take the easy way out of this article and just post a photo essay on Garay because to be honest [Editor’s note — We had no such qualms. Enjoy!], I’m not sure words, even my words, can do this guy’s personality justice, but here goes.

Before our interview I was warned that Garay was a character. He even owned a Hello Kitty smart car was the word on the street, and it seemed overpoweringly appropriate to start the interview there. “I got it like that from the dealership. I’m just a guy with a good sense of humor. I don’t take life too seriously; I take it for what it’s worth. I think everyone should have a good time, and laugh a little more. I try to do my part and make everyone laugh,” Garay says.

I’m all for jokes, but an automobile just for laughs? What about a more economically savvy YouTube video instead?

“I went to the Mercedes Benz dealership here in San Diego last September, and I told them I wanted a smart car, and as a joke they brought me the Hello Kitty car. It was kind of a joke when they drove it out, but I told them it was perfect. At that point I didn’t know a whole lot about Hello Kitty, but I said, ‘I’ll take it.’ And I’ve been driving it ever since,” laughs Garay.

Before you start thinking a 6-foot-4-football player/former college wrestler is riding dirty in a pink Hello Kitty car, think again. “It’s not pink,” Garay quickly corrected me.

“None of my teammates make fun of me about it. Some were taken back, but I’m bigger than a lot of the guys, so they don’t say much. A couple thought I was a genius for getting that car,” Garay adds without confirming or denying if he’s referencing the “chick magnet” affects of the car.

“I even have a New Era baseball cap with Hello Kitty on it,” Garay adds. “Women give me random Hello Kitty gifts,” he trails off. “And I’ll just leave it at that.”

Antonio Garay’s Hello Kitty Smart Car (photo via Garay)

“I have two smart cars. The other is all black with blacked out windows, a red racing stripe, and my number on the wheels. I also have an off road jeep wrangler. All my cars are fun cars – the doors come off, the tops come off. I have a bunch of those accessories you don’t need; like a cruise ship boat horn and a PA system,” Garay says. “They are fun things to have in your vehicle when you’re driving. Everyone wants to borrow it, drive it or just sit in it. Smart cars are a lot bigger than people actually think, especially the front seat. The Hello Kitty car kind of speaks for itself, but the other one is the tougher version. Instead of the smart car emblem, it has my initial ‘G’ on front, all leather seats with red stitching, and surround sound” Garay explains adding that black and red were his high school colors.

Having just turned 33 at the end of November, I told Garay how rare (and impressed I was) at his off the cuff and seemingly “random” personality. “What’s random about it?” he asked. I hated to admit it, but I guess I wasn’t used to so much personality, especially from one of the “older” guys. Garay, now in his 6th NFL season, is comfortable with his play on the field and the man he is off the field — a rare combo in professional sports.

“Pound for pound, I’m probably one of the bigger jokesters on the team. Contrary to what people believe, football doesn’t define the guys that play the sport. A lot of people make their judgments based on what they see and hear on ESPN or Twitter. That’s why I tell people to have fun while playing football. It is your job, but have fun doing your job. If you’re serious 24/7 it’s pretty exhausting and that shows up in your play,” Garay says from firsthand experience. “I know when I’ve gotten serious, my play isn’t necessarily the best. The more confident, laid-back and fun, allows athletes to have more to their edge, almost that x factor.”

I hate to quote Wikipedia, but I felt compelled to ask about the claim that he’s “notable for outrageous hairstyles.” “I don’t really let the media get into it, but there is always a background story to my haircuts. A couple weeks after Hurricane Sandy I did a Jersey Strong haircut. The word ‘strong’ was across the back of my head and inside the O it had the state of New Jersey. I’m from NJ, so I had to represent,” Garay explains.

Garay’s Two-Face haircut (photo via Garay)

As for crazy hairstyles, “I have one right now. It’s Two-Face – that’s the theme. The left side is normal with a beard and standard taper cut and the right is completely designed in black and turquoise and my beard is designed out. Contrary to popular belief I don’t do my hairstyles to stand out,” adds Garay.

While the Hello Kitty car was more for comedic value and proof of not taking himself too seriously, the big guy really does have a soft side to him. “I remember back when football was fun – when it was pure and we just played to play. That’s why I brought back some of the hairstyles from my high school days. I met a kid, Timmy, who was going through treatments. When I first met him he had a [hair] design in mind and I told him I would do it. He also asked me to get him a sack – that was tough, but I did it,” Garay says proudly. “After that I changed it up a bit the following week and then people expected me to do it every week. That’s kind of how that whole story played out.”

“As far as the crazy hairstyles, it’s more of a self-motivation thing. If you do something crazy, you better play good. You don’t do something like that to play lousy, or for people not to know you’re out there. It started with Timmy, but it’s brought it to a different level of play,” Garay explains.

“I have a pretty solid belief to help your community and establish relationships with teammates off the field and outside the locker room. I think everything carries over. If guys support each other in their personal charities, it creates a relationship and helps with camaraderie,” Garay says. “In my personal opinion, if guys are supporting each other, it’s easier to have that person’s back when you’re playing on the field, as minor as that might sound. I’m not really a big birthday person but guys that came up and wished me a happy birthday – something that minor goes a long way. When I play, I don’t just play for myself but I play for my teammate and kids like Timmy. Maybe that’s why I try to be funny – some people don’t think I am. My mom thinks I’m pretty great,” he adds laughing.

Be sure to follow Garay’s Hello Kitty escapades and hairstyles on Twitter. His bio says he’s located in the San Diego Zoo, if that’s any indication how much of a goofball this guy is.

See the rest of the photos in Antonio’s gallery! And for what it’s worth, Garay is not the first NFL player I’ve had smart car chats with. Perhaps they should go cruising around together sometime.This post is part of The Blonde Side’s Momentum Challenge series to interview one active player from all 32 NFL Teams within the short time frame of 34 days. Antonio Garay and his hilarious photos cross the San Diego Chargers off the list.

To see this full article in its original format, check out CBS Man Cave Daily.

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Aldrick Robinson

Photo via Patrick Smith/Stringer/Getty Images Sports/Getty Images

Aldrick Robinson Takes Game To A Whole New Level.

For us common folk, it’s hard to imagine the everyday life of an NFL player. A $25 organic-spinach smoothie for breakfast, riding in their Bentley to practice, having paparazzi and crazed fans storm them for photos and autographs, an elaborate steak dinner with private security keeping the “trash” out, Playboy bunnies and models incessantly texting naughty pictures, and then finally heading home to one of the many variations of housing styles featured on MTV’s Cribs. That sounds accurate, right?

According to Aldrick Robinson, Wide Receiver for the Washington Redskins, my depiction isn’t even close. Apparently Lindsey Lohan’s sobriety is closer to the truth than my original thoughts. Robinson basically plays his video game, NBA 2k, a lot.

I gave the NFL rookie the green light to talk about anything he wanted. Thrilled with this open-forum interview, Robinson immediately wanted to talk about NBA 2k. According to Robinson, a typical day for him looks something like this: “I get out of practice around 4:30, I eat, then I play it [NBA 2k] for about four hours,” he says.

The 2011 sixth-rounder (178th overall) explains that because he actually “lives the NFL everyday,” playing that on a video game would be “boring.”

“NBA is kind of fun because I don’t actually play that sport anymore. I played basketball in my high school days – I was a guard. And I was good,” he humbly adds. “I play it on PS3 and Xbox 360 but mainly PS3 – there’s more competition on PS3. It’s easy because anybody can play with a PS3 and an Internet connection – you can play people from all across the world.”

No stranger to competition and certainly not afraid of a challenge, the confident 5-foot-10 gamer issued a nationwide challenge back in 2011 for NBA 2K11. He’s quoted in an article on the Redskins blog saying, “I’m probably the best person in the nation at that game. If you play PS3, I’m under CallMeLilA . Look me up and you will get beat down.”

I asked if it was OK for the sake of this article and facilitating harder video game challenges for him in the future if I could post his name (or handle, or hashtag, or whatever it is you call it in video game jargon). “No doubt, because a lot of people don’t believe the hype about how good I am. You tell whoever to look me up under CallMeLilA,” he urges. “Here, let me spell it so you get it right,” he adds.

Robinson playing his “other” game (photo via Robinson)

His favorite basketball team in “real life” is the Lakers, but to be fair to the lesser competition, Robinson plays with the Brooklyn Nets on the game. “They [the Brooklyn Nets] are a good team but they are underrated on the game. I would play with the Lakers but everyone thinks the Lakers are a cheat team on the game because of their stacked players in real life, so I try to make it even. I’m still winning. If I play with the Lakers everyone will say I’m just winning because I’m playing with the best team. The Nets are a middle of the road team and I still dominate with them,” Robinson explains.

There’s got to be some competition left out there for you, I asked?

“I play some of my teammates. I guess as far as competition goes, I think right now it’s my fellow receiver Leonard Hankerson.  He gives me a good game every time. We’re about 90/10 because I let him win sometimes just to keep the rivalry alive. I don’t want to beat him dead all the time because then he won’t play me anymore,” Robinson jokes. (To clarify, Hankerson is the 10%.)

If Hankerson’s your toughest competitor, you’ve got to be on the hunt for something better, right?

“Well, yeah. Brian Orakpo [Redskins linebacker] was better than me last year, I gave him the edge, but I haven’t been playing him a lot this year. I hope he’s practicing (or whatever), but I want to play him. Will you get him to play me?” Robinson laughs.

Reports have surfaced for years claiming video games are bad for your health, citing issues such as finger deformities in young children due to the intricate and rapid finger movement (hello, TYPING), strained eyes and neck muscles and more. I asked Robinson if he could speak to any of these claims and provide further insight. “Well actually I have a couple dislocated fingers [from football] and they start to bother me sometimes but I play through it. I’m a warrior you know,” he says.

Given his love for the game, I began to wonder if Robinson traveled with his game console or there was a computer/iPad version to help tweak his intermittent fixes on the road. “No, I don’t travel with games. I stopped doing that in college. I’ve brought it to the hotel once for a home game, but my mind is only on the football game at hand,” he says.

Robinson made his NFL debut earlier this season in the Redskins home opener beating the New Orleans Saints.  The rookie subbed in for an injured Pierre Garcon, where he set off to score his first career touchdown and recorded four receptions and 52 yards for the Redskins.

You may remember earlier this season the SMU grad suffered quite a hit in the end zone, before the game even started. Teammate Brandon Meriweather ran a route that landed him straight into Aldrick, sans helmet, which knocked both the guys out and put them out of at least one game. “I got knocked out and was slightly concussed and missed the one game. I was out of video games too,” Aldrick added.

I’m sure Coach Shanahan was happy to hear that his injury was enough to warrant putting down the controllers for a few days.

[Man Cave Fact: Four hours of video games counts as exercise if you stand while you play.]

Note: This post is part of The Blonde Side’s Momentum Challenge series to interview one active player from all 32 NFL Teams within the short time frame of 34 days. Aldrick Robinson and his love for NBA 2K cross the Washington Redskins off the list.

To see this full article in its original format, check out CBS Man Cave Daily.

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Devon Still’s Sneakers

Devon Still’s Sneaker Collection (photo via Still)

More Than Just a Pretty Penny.

An avid collector or sneakers, Devon Still, defensive tackle for the Cincinnati Bengals, seemed more than eager to put down his Call of Duty video game, the same game he considers himself “one of the best” at, to chat with me about his outrageous sneaker collection.

The 23-year-old NFL star claims he has more than 50 pairs of sneakers, many of which he loves equally and rotates throughout his wardrobe. “The first thing I decide when getting dressed is what shoe I’m going to wear and then I go from there,” Still says.

Still’s affinity for shoes comes from a rather sentimental story, believe it or not. “When I was a kid, my family didn’t have a lot of money. We had just enough to get by, so we didn’t get to have that many different shoes. As a kid I used to see kids with a bunch of shoes and I only had one pair. When I made it to the NFL, I started buying all those things I wanted as a kid that we couldn’t afford and shoes were definitely one of them,” he admits. “I guess you could say it’s one of my most expensive hobbies, I probably buy two or three pairs a month.”

No matter how much I love sports, as a chick, shoes are definitely something I too can get behind. Here’s a little look at  our interview:

JL: First off, should I call them tennis shoes or sneakers?

Still: Sneakers. For sure.

JL: Ok, well what kind of sneakers do you like the best?

Still: Majority of the ones I have are Nike. Definitely a lot of Jordans, and a lot of Foamposites.

JL: Ok, I know all about Jordans, but Foamposites?

Still: Yeah, Penny Hardway’s shoes. They’re real big right now. You’ve never heard of them?

[Interview Break: Foamposites debuted in 1997 with a hefty price tag of $180 and were a signature shoe of the former All-Star Penny Hardaway. Websites such as Nice Kicks show upcoming release dates and custom models like the Mountain Dew release, clearly indicating Still isn’t alone with his obsession, er collection.]

JL: What’s Hardaway doing these days?

Still: I have no idea. I know he’s making a lot of money off his shoes.

JL: Clearly. What’s the most expensive pair you own?

Still: My Galaxy [foamposites] that go for around $1500-$2000.

JL: Those are about the same price as the red-soled Louboutins! Do you ever wear them or do they sit in your closet like a glassed-in autographed Babe Ruth baseball?

Still: Oh no, I wear them. I’ve had them for maybe six months and probably wore them twice.

JL: For special occasions?

Still: Yeah I guess.

JL: What about clubs and bars that have strict dress codes with sneakers. Can you still get in?

Still: They don’t have a choice. These are expensive sneakers; they gotta let you in.

JL: What are your newest pair?

Still: My Air Jordan 4 Retro, they were about $150

JL: Which ones are your favorites?

Still: Probably those Galaxies I mentioned. Those are my favorite. I also have a pair of foamposites in my team colors. They are silver, orange and black.

JL: Where do you buy most of your sneakers?

Still: Sometimes my Nike rep hooks me up, but also from a local place in Cincinnati called Corporate. It’s personally owned and he sells to a lot of the Bengals players.

JL: I heard last year that some people were killing over some Jordans around Christmas? That makes me sad.

Still: Yeah, people were killing over those Galaxies I was telling you about – they are so limited and sell out so fast and you never know if they’re coming out again and people go crazy. I definitely have to watch some of my shoes and where I wear them.

Still keeps his sneakers organized (photo via Still)

JL: Speaking of Christmas, are there any sneakers on your list this year?

Still: Air Jordan 11 “Bred” [Scheduled to be released this month.]

JL: Who do you give your Christmas list to? Santa?

Still: Nah, I’ll probably ask my parents for them. I’ll put that in somebody’s ear in my family to get me those Jordans. [hint, hint]

JL: Are you afraid your daughter [she’s two] is going to grow up and love shoes half as much as you? Girls’ shoes are expensive too, you know?

Still: I think all women have a love for shoes so I’m sure she’ll love them that much more because I’m a sneaker fanatic. I buy her Jordans from time to time. She likes them, so we’ll see.

JL: What about one day when you make it even bigger, making your own line of shoes?

Still: Nah, I’m good. I don’t have the imagination for creating my own, I’ll just buy them.

JL: I’ll let you get back to playing Call of Duty. That’s a pretty bold statement to say you’re one of the best.

Still: I know.

Note: This post is part of The Blonde Side’s Momentum Challenge series to interview one active player from all 32 NFL Teams within the short time frame of 34 days. Devon Still’s sneakers cross the Cincinnati Bengals off the list.

To see this full article in its original format, check out CBS Man Cave Daily.

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Farewell to Movember

Zoltan Mesko playing his part in Movember (photo via Stacey James)

Farewell to Movember with Zoltan Mesko.

Today is a sad day. We bid adieu to an entire month of watching grown men painfully, yet thoughtfully, grow out an abundance of facial hair just above their upper lip, all in support of Movember. [Yes, the same reason Aaron Rodgers decided to join in, not because he became an Uncle over Thanksgiving.]

It’s a month I seriously covet in the most hardcore way. A) My birthday happens to fall in this great month and B) I seriously dig moustaches. Or at least I thought I did.

While said upper lip facial fur may not turn me on quite the same way Magic Mike does, a guy with a heart of gold and a desire to help a good cause certainly does. Meet Zoltan Mesko, punter for the New England Patriots. Joining the ranks of the other ~854,288 hipster-looking Mo Bros, Mesko has joined the Movember campaign, after prodding from his agency.

What I quickly learned about growing a moustache (not to be confused with a mustache) is that even for the average Joe, it’s a tough feat to pull off, whether it’s for charity or not. Now imagine being on primetime television each week and having 40,000+ followers on Twitter to comment on this newfound facial epidemic. Ensue critics. And questions.

But that’s exactly the point. Movember, involves men known as “Mo Bros” who become real-life walking billboards for the nonprofit by growing out a moustache for the month in addition to joining an internet-based team to raise funds in addition to awareness.

Really getting into the spirit of it, Mesko updated his Twitter avatar to help raise awareness and bait his followers. “I took a picture [by Stacey James] before the game and tweeted it. It was posted on the Patriots Facebook and instagram pages, and it got a lot of hits. I even stroked it to play the part,” he adds. According to the Movember website, on average, a man with a ‘stache touches it approximately 760 times a day. I guess that’s better than touching something else that many times…

One of Mesko’s Twitter followers, @ChrisWarCraftsent this Tweet after Mesko posted his new avatar in which he lovingly stroked his new fur: “You look like Liam Neeson playing a role as a French pedophile. How do you even function in public without getting arrested?”

Twitter Image

Mesko just laughed it off. And then retweeted it of course. “I’m kind of into the whole self-deprecation thing,” the 6-foot-4 goofball added.

As Mesko told me, “First off, I just can’t pull off a moustache, I don’t have a face for it nor the facial hair genetics. As long as you call yourself out and admit that it looks terrible, then you can quickly get into the reason behind it.”

And Mesko is not afraid to call himself out, in public, and on multiple occasions. Even his Mo Bro page clearly states his motivation and inept ability to grow out a proper ‘stache:

Zoltan’s Motivation

“To prove that despite a genetic flaw in my facial hair growth, I can still look….well…terrible.”

Of course, his motivation reaches well beyond plain hilarity. “My grandma passed away from breast cancer last year. Cancer affects all of us, whether it’s female or male – prostate is one of the more treatable versions as well as testicular cancer, which Movember raises awareness for,” Mesko explains. “It’s definitely important to me.”

Back to the funny part.

“The best way to approach cancer is to laugh in its face. Let them laugh at how creepy I look, that’s OK. If you like self-deprecating kind of humor or if you’re a jokester, then this campaign [Movember] is for you. But it’s definitely a commitment. Thirty days to do anything is a long time,” Mesko says.

“It’s not something that’s attractive; it’s the cause behind it. That’s really the only reason I’ve committed myself to it. You don’t appreciate the commitment level until you grow this ugly facial hair,” he laughs. “My girlfriend isn’t very fond of it, but she likes the cause. She’s threatened to buzz it off mid-sleep – that’s kind of scary to think about. If I do it next year I’ll probably go more comical– like a Fu Manchu,” says Mesko.

So next time you go judging (or tweeting) a book by its cover, or a man by his facial hair, ask if he’s doing it for Movember or some other notable cause. Concern should only be raised if in fact he’s driving a windowless van or he’s appeared on an episode of To Catch a Predator.

Who knows? Maybe when Mesko closes out his impressive football career, the producers of Law & Order SVU will hire him. It’s clear he can look the part.

In all seriousness, felicitations to Mesko and all the other Mo Bros out there for making this stellar commitment in hopes to change the face of men’s health in the most literal sense. Hope to see your furry facial friends back next year.

Be sure to follow Mesko’s hairy hilarity on Twitter.

Note: This post is part of The Blonde Side’s Momentum Challenge series to interview one active player from all 32 NFL Teams within the short time frame of 34 days. Zoltan Mesko and his creepy ‘stache crosses the New England Patriots off the list.

To see this full article in its original format, check out CBS Man Cave Daily.

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Owen Daniels Plays Football and Loves House Music

Owen Daniels

Owen Daniels Plays Football and Loves House Music

Owen Daniels Plays Football and Loves House Music

Owen Daniels: For the Love of House Music

A funny thing happens when you tell a professional athlete that you’re willing to interview him about whatever he wants. Without pressure to talk about a recurring and nagging knee injury, a recent bad play Chris Berman probably called him out on repeatedly, or some negative slant the media is currently overanalyzing, what happens is pretty awesome: they usually loosen up and show a really fun side; sometimes an unexpected one.

That’s what happened when I sat down with Owen Daniels, tight end for the Houston Texans. The 6-foot-3 Naperville, IL native who rocked an awesome dirty blonde side-part and dressed head-to-toe in Jordan was given the green light to talk about whatever his heart desired. His 7-year tenure with the Texans, his recent engagement to a gorgeous Houston attorney, what his chances of a second Pro Bowl are, any riffs on the team, etc, but Daniels chose to gush about his love for house music.

To read this full story about Owen Daniels and his love for the beats and house music, click over to Man Cave Daily.

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Tight End’s Guide to Houston

Owen Daniels and fiance Angela Mecca (photo via Michelle Watson/CatchLightGroup.com)

A hunky tight end’s guide to Houston: Owen Daniels reveals where he hangs and his secret hip-hop cred

he 10-1 Houston Texans are stronger than ever, tied for the best record in the entire NFL, and, for the first time in their 10-year franchise history, part of the overanalyzed talk of being one of the Super Bowl favorites. Houston, the city, is also on a high, having taken the No. 1 spot on the Forbes list of America’s Coolest Cities To Live not so long ago.

According to the Forbes’ article, “cool” was based off Merriam-Webster’s definition of “very good; fashionable.”

Tight end Owen Daniels, the guy many consider to be the most social Texan (with apologizes to Connor Barwin), feels that Houston most definitely fits that description. Daniels, one of the main weapons in the Texans offense with 47 catches for 555 yards and six touchdowns, says that even if his football career eventually takes him elsewhere, Houston is where he plans to continue to call home.

I sat down with the 6-foot-3, 249-pound, newly-engaged tight end, who was dressed in all Jordan, and asked about all this new hype for his team and his city and the stereotypes synonymous with Texas.

“I’ve always been a rap/hip hop guy . . . I’m from the mean streets of Naperville, Illinois.”

The 30-year-old Daniels, who has spent all seven seasons of his NFL career in Houston, admits the pickup stereotype is “so true.” “I swear there’s gotta be one pickup truck for every car that’s out there,” he says. “I don’t know anywhere outside of Texas you’ll see so many pickup trucks.”

The Chicago-area native quickly debunks one popular misconception though. “I don’t think Houston is as country as people think,” Daniels says. “It’s a big city so you get every walk of life here — it’s a great mix of people. It’s not all cowboys and big teased hair.”

When asked to describe Houston in one word, Daniels claims he does not have a “great vocabulary” but chooses “sprawling.” “Even as big as our city is, it’s always growing and so spread out,” he continues.

Tight End, Owen Daniels (photo via Michelle Watson/CatchLightGroup.com)

This is one professional athlete who actually really knows the city he plays in. Here is Owen Daniels’ Visitors Guide to Houston:

Where to stay: Hotel ZaZa 

Best Place to Shop: I don’t love shopping, but my girlfriend goes to Tootsies for dresses. I don’t mind the Galleria as long as I have some direction and know what I’m going for. I need to have a plan. I can’t just walk aimlessly through that massive place.

Texas Meal Must: Barbecue, Steak or Mexican? They gotta go barbecue. I like Mexican food, but don’t crave it like I do barbecue.

Best Barbecue: Goode Company next to Armadillo — it’s the most consistent.

Best Mexican: El Tiempo on Richmond — they’re all OK, but that’s the best one.

Best Steakhouse: No doubt, Del Frisco’s is my favorite spot to eat. Arthur (Mooradian), the GM there is amazing. I always get a filet, medium. You gotta go with the mac and cheese too — it’s a jalapeno mac and cheese with bacon in it — it’s so good!

Best Brunch: Empire Cafe 

Best Sports Venue: Obviously Reliant Stadium. The atmosphere is crazy and we have the No. 1 fans.

Best Opponent to see at Reliant: Any divisional game

Best Bar/Spot for a Celebration: If you want to go all out, go to Roak on a Saturday night. Good people watching and a pretty good atmosphere.

Best Part of Town: I don’t think the Montrose area gets talked about enough. I think they’ve got great places to eat and cool bars.

Best Place for a Cocktail: Anvil is a good place to grab a cocktail if you’re looking for something other than beer or vodka.

Best Local Beer: Love me some St. Arnolds!

Best Date Spot: I love dinner at Mark’s.

Best Radio Station: The Box (97.9). That’s the best morning show that Houston has to offer. Rod Ryan (from The Buzz) emcees my charity events, so I like him a lot too.

Fave Musician from Houston: I’m kind of embarrassed I don’t know who all is from Houston, but I know a lot of good music comes from here. I guess I’d go with Bun B — I’m on this house kick lately. I’ve always been a rap/hip hop guy . . . I’m from the mean streets of Naperville, Illinois.

Best Music Venue: I think House of Blues is cool because it’s always intimate but my favorite shows I’ve seen have been big concerts at the Toyota Center. I went to (Lady) Gaga there and it was awesome! I went to Watch the Throne tour too — that was probably the sickest show I’ve been too.

Best Local Charity: Owen Daniels’ Catching Dreams Foundation of course! We try to help critically and chronically ill children in Houston and their families. I think what makes us unique is that we not only focus on and support the patient, but their siblings and families as well.

We have “Owen’s Locker” on the 10th floor at Texas Children’s with tons of entertainment like radios, DVD players, PSPs and other stuff to help entertain them while they are there.

Daniels has already secured his spot in franchise history becoming only the second Texan (behind Andre Johnson, who has 10,714 yards and counting) to reach 4,000 receiving yards in his career.

“I think he’s physically the best he’s been,” Texans coach Gary Kubiak has said of Daniels’ season.

Presumably that has something to do with putting forth 110 percent effort on the field and knowing all the best spots in Houston to refuel.

This article was featured on Culture Map, Houston’s Daily Digital Magazine in the sport’s section.

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The Blonde Side's Momentum Challenge

MOMENTUM Challenge

The Blonde Side's Momentum Challenge

The Blonde Side’s Momentum Challenge

Happy Birthday to me. Happy Birthday to me. (The graphic to your left would lead you to believe I turned 32 today, but that is not the case, read on…).

Another year has passed and what can I say other than I’m L-A-Z-Y. Lazier than even Matt Leinart. This year has plum wore me out, but like last year, I’m going to make the most of these next four weeks and create a challenge for myself, which will likely stress me out and give me carpel tunnel.

Last year I set out to do The Blonde Side’s 30 Before 30 – asking 30 awesome athletes for interviews. I got quite a few, but the point was to get this column going (momentum, if you will) in a good direction. IT WORKED.

So this year I’m back presenting The Blonde Side’s MOMENTUM Challenge.

My goal: Interview a current player from each of the 32 NFL teams and write an article. Oh, and do it all by December 31, 

That’s just 34 days. Time is clearly not on my side (just like the Eagles o-line), but it’ll push me to use my resources and secure great interviews. I’m not afraid of such a lofty goal, and it’s giving these 32 guys the platform to talk about whatever they want on or off the field. I promise you it’ll be interesting and I only break promises to ex-boyfriends.

We all need momentum from time to time. I’ve had some great articles published with ESPN this year, but I still need to keep pushing harder. So here goes…

Here are the interviews I’ve secured thus far (prepare to be slightly underwhelmed…for now). Stay tuned for updates and the articles here on The Blonde Side, and pulease leave a comment with suggestions/contacts to help me meet this ridiculous goal.

Other Big News: This entire series/column will run as a feature with Man Cave Daily.

Arizona Cardinals: Sam Acho

Atlanta Falcons: Corey Peters

Baltimore Ravens:

Buffalo Bills:

Carolina Panthers:

Chicago Bears:

Cincinnati Bengals: Devon Still

Cleveland Browns:

Dallas Cowboys: Anthony Armstrong

Denver Broncos:

Detroit Lions:

Green Bay Packers:

Houston Texans: Owen Daniels

Indianapolis Colts:

Jacksonville Jaguars:

Kansas City Chiefs:

Miami Dolphins:

Minnesota Vikings:

New England Patriots: Zoltan Mesko

New Orleans Saints:

New York Giants:

New York Jets:

Oakland Raiders:

Philadelphia Eagles:

Pittsburgh Steelers:

Saint Louis Rams:

San Diego Chargers: Antonio Garay

San Francisco 49ers:

Seattle Seahawks: Greg Scruggs

Tampa Bay Buccaneers:

Tennessee Titans:

Washington Redskins: Aldrick Robinson

In hindsight it would have been fitting to have done this challenge for The Blonde Side on my 32nd birthday…

Thanks to Melissa Sims for creating yet another amazing graphic for The Blonde Side!

Update – it’s now January 7, 2013 and The Blonde Side didn’t even come close to meeting this lofty goal. Better luck next year, but A for effort? Maybe? Thanks to all the great athletes above and to Man Cave Daily for running this feature. Look for big things from The Blonde Side in 2013. #promise

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