Football Archives - Page 6 of 8

Bear Down

The Blonde Side t-shirts in Chicago

CHICAGO — Being at Soldier Field on Veteran’s Day. Let that sink in for a minute.

Regardless of the outcome of the game between the Houston Texans and the Chicago Bears on Sunday night, all 62,410 fans in attendance, whether wearing navy and red or navy and orange, cheered for the country’s servicemen and women. Walking into the stadium, on all sides, fans were met with a simple but powerful message and reminder:

SOLIDER FIELD

Dedicated To The Men And Women Of The Armed Services

Flying out of Houston Hobby Friday morning, the airport was packed with enthusiastic Texans fans. If there’s one thing for sure about this Houston Texans team, fans travel well. And the team is good. Really good.

If there’s one thing for sure about this Houston Texans team, fans travel well. And the team is good. Really good.

Barret and Desiree Ortega were sporting their custom-made Texans T-shirts. The front read: “Howdy. ‘Chicago Blows’” with a Texans logo in place of the “o”.

The back read: “Dang auto correct – ‘Windy City.’”

The duo agreed it was a mutual creative idea; Desiree made the shirts, but Barret came up with the quote.

“We go to an away game every year but this one has to do with Veteran’s Day. He’s [Barret] in the Marine Corp and Solider Field has got to be one of the coolest places to spend this special day. Being from Houston, we wanted to go where it’s cold and we’ve been season tickets holders since Day one,” Desiree said holding her husband’s hand.

“Make sure you tell people we’re here proudly representing the Yellow Lot,” Barret added, referring to a popular tailgating spot near Reliant Stadium.

Barret and Desiree Ortega show off their sweatshirts before heading to Chicago

Mass appeal

Based on my trip to Denver back in September, I knew that Texans fans travel in masses. Eight home games clearly isn’t enough for some fans and while the team takes their show on the road, fans tag along for the fun. And the bragging rights being in the midst of all the gridiron action.

I began to wonder – are all these Texans fans BFFs (and why wasn’t I cordially invited?) or is there some underground fandom even I’m not aware of? And then I ran across a Facebook post from the ever-so-awesome Stephanie Stradley and the pieces started to fit together.

Stradley is a fan blogger (she goes by TexansChick) and at least for this Chicago game, drafted an “unofficial” Texans itinerary for the thousands venturing into the Windy City. To ensure the “travel in packs” mentality was in full effect all weekend, Stradley, with the help of some serious fans, itemized a traveling fans dream checklist.

To ensure the “travel in packs” mentality was in full effect all weekend, Stradley, with the help of some serious fans, itemized a traveling fans dream checklist.

She fully detailed what color to wear to the game (Battle Red), what bars fans would be at on Saturday night (including drink specials a link to the bar and address), where to meet if you want to partake in the group picture, and a simple yet friendly reminder that “the line between enthusiasm and obnoxious can be very thin.”

Her goal was to make sure Texans fans showed up strong and, more importantly, had a great time and respected the Bears fans in their house.

Texans fans at Soldier Field

Thanks to unrivaled tailgating and bloggers like Stradley, Texans fans have been bonding over beers and tough seasons for a full decade. Now, they finally have something to cheer about. The teams have only met two times prior to this season, so it was a no-brainer that Chicago would be a big game. A primetime battle of two talked about defenses, a great city and an even greater team – one finally worth traveling for.

I ran into Mike Stephens at the Pony sports bar Saturday for a huge A&M watch party. Mike flew into town with seven of his friends for Sunday’s big game.

“I am here with friends that I’ve known for 30 years, and because this will be the best game of the year. Two 7-1 teams. Outstanding. Great football, great friends, great city,” he said.

Too cool

Inside Soldier Field, the crowds were loud and bundled up. With pouring rain and temperatures in the 40’s, most Texans fans were covered head-to-toe in warm gear, a poncho (or trash bag) and multiple Texans branded apparel items. But there was one Texan who wasn’t afraid to show a little skin. In the first quarter, a Southern little blonde sporting a Texans midriff and unseasonably tan skin, flexed her muscles for the Jumbotron, getting fans riled up.

Just before heading into the raining tailgating festivities, I ran into Monica Rojas, another Houston fan. “Watt Ya Know About Them H-Town Peeps?” she kept saying to all the opposing fans, including the ESPN radio guys broadcasting live inside Jimmy Greens.

“Can’t wait to get home to Houston and thaw out. My draws are frozen and my fingers and toes are numb, but winning in Chicago’s house and celebrating with my fellow Texans fans was the greatest. 8-1! #bullsonparade.”

“We’re here trying to show Chicago how us Texans fans roll. We have family that lives here but we love and support our Texans – home and away. We are predicting the Texans are 8-1 after tonight baby!” Rojas said.

And she was right. Both teams entered Sunday nights’ game, the one many referred to as a preview for Super Bowl XLVII, at 7-1, but only one team left 8-1. The Texans, still the team to beat across the league, continue to be undefeated against Brian Urlacher and the Chicago Bears (with an all-time record of 3-0).

Looking at the front row of the lower bowl, I’m a TEXAN, WE ARE TEXANS, and other Texan-logo flags were strategically placed for all the viewers at home to see. Texans are proud.

A Texans fan on a mission, Patrick Reyes marks Chicago as just another stop on the away schedule.

“The game was ugly but I don’t think I could have had a more appropriate Chicago experience. The weather, the fans and a defensive battle. Great win for our Texans. As long as we win, I don’t care how we play. Next stop for me, New England on December 10th,” said Reyes who plans to utilize Stradley’s helpful tips along each stop.

Another avid fan and season ticket holder, Justin Capetillo, managed to type out a Facebook message even with frozen fingers after the big win. “Can’t wait to get home to Houston and thaw out. My draws are frozen and my fingers and toes are numb, but winning in Chicago’s house and celebrating with my fellow Texans fans was the greatest. 8-1! #bullsonparade.”

Ty and Sharon Coburn are celebrating more than just a franchise record-setting team.

“We are here celebrating our anniversary and it’s funny because it’s the Texans 10-year anniversary and it’s also our 10-year anniversary. Last night’s win was priceless. The win just completed our amazing weekend. I was wet from head to toe and Ty kept telling me ‘hang in there darling’ – it’ll all be worth it. It was amazing. We were sitting around some really grouchy Bears fans, but we had a great time,” said Sharon Coburn.

“Last night’s victory validated who we are – we are THE team,” said Ty.

I’m sure every other Texans fan, whether in Chicago, Houston or elsewhere agrees with Ty’s sentiments.

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

November 12, 2012/by Jayme

Fifty Shades of Football

Chicks, Football

Fifty Shades of Football – The Blonde Side’s Guest Post on GirlsGuideTo.com

When’s the last time you put all your faith in a man, much less 11? Well it’s time.

The NFL and College GameDay are back (sans the lovely Erin Andrews) and it’s time to brush up on some gridiron lingo, some do’s & dont’s and just some fun ways to make it through the season with your sockbun in tact. There’s no two-hour window to call in and vote for your favorite, just 60 minutes to sweat it out for the W and then get in everyone’s face screaming and cheering.

Tight Ends– No, not just Ryan Lochte and Magic Mike, but otherwise known as an offensive player who is usually one of the bigger guys on the team and plays a dual role of a blocker and a receiver. Good example: Owen Daniels with the Houston Texans (for all of the above reasons).

GameDay Colors– The ability to finally recognize the difference between Texas A&M “maroon” and Florida State “garnet”. Not to mention all the various shades of orange, including but not limited to the burnt variety.

Eye Black– Just a smidge under your regular non-season eyeliner, at an all-time thickness of about 1/2inch, otherwise known as the grease applied under a player’s eyes to reduce the glare.

Replacement Refs– Kind of like that one time your hairdresser went on vacation and you used her assistant and ended up with a real life hot mess on your head. Replacements are never as good as the real thing.

GameDay– Let’s not overcomplicate things…

Tailgating– The only time hanging out in a parking lot isn’t considered trashy (unless you’re in Gainesville, then be sure to add jorts). Also, calorie counters needn’t apply.

32– A number that refers to NFL teams in the league, not just Baskin Robbins flavors.

Accent Nails– During football season, your middle finger becomes your only “accent nail” to opposing fans for 17 straight weeks, no matter what Glamour or Vogue Magazine says.

“ing”– In grammatical terms, adding “ing” to a verb is known as a gerund. In football terms however, it is known as the newest way to turn a player’s last name into a verb.

Example #1: Griffining – the pose Washington Redskins quarterback, RG3 makes while on the ground after throwing a touchdown pass, with both hands in the air for celebration.

Example #2: Tebowing – getting down on one knee as a signal for prayer or to give thanks for a ridiculous hail mary that should not have been caught that will air over and over on ESPN for weeks.)

To see this full article in its original version, be sure to check out GirlsGuideTo.com.

September 30, 2012/by Jayme

Texans Duane Brown in a Smart Car (Photo: Sunshine Winters Photography)

Duane Brown + Smart Cars

Football

Texans Duane Brown in a Smart Car (Photo: Sunshine Winters Photography)

Can an NFL tackle fit in a smart car?

Standing at 6-foot-5 and a “light” 320 pounds, as he puts it, you wouldn’t think Houston Texans offensive lineman Duane Brown could fit inside a two-seat smart car sitting in the media parking lot at Texans training camp.

The smart fortwo model stretches 106 inches in width, but the 5-year NFL veteran was convinced he could fit inside.

Brown towers over the car, and if he were to lie down, he would make up 79 percent of the car’s length. But he insists he can fit inside — and do so comfortably.

To read the full article on Duane Brown’s Smart Car ride, visit ESPN Playbook.

Duane Brown in a Smart Car (Photo: Sunshine Winters Photography)

Watch this Youtube video to see Duane Brown drive the smart car.

Be sure to follow Jayme from The Blonde Side on Twitter and Texans Duane Brown on Twitter.

August 15, 2012/by Jayme

Jose Altuve, Photo courtesy of Jeremy Keas

The League Transition Debate

Baseball, Football

Photo courtesy of Texas A&M

Will Texas A&M have it even worse than the Houston Astros?

There are grumblings all throughout Texas, and quite frankly, the nation, about two massive impending sporting moves.

The first, mostly because of historically better performances and a much stronger fan base is Texas A&M University starting what’s sure to be an uncharted, bumpy and probably oft-embarrassing road into the SEC (the Aggies’ first football game of the season is on August 30 vs Louisiana Tech with the Florida Gators chomping their way into Kyle Field the very next week for their SEC opener).

The second is the newly owned, underfunded-but-bring-your-own-wine-to-the-field Houston Astros making the move from the National League Central to the American League West next season.

It seems both are in for a rude awakening, but if you had to put your hard-earned dollar on just one of these teams surviving (with perhaps a bit of dignity), which team comes out on top? Texas A&M football or Houston Astros baseball?

SEC vs. AL West

As we all know, the SEC has been housing enough crystal to make an all-Waterford casino in Las Vegas, with the last six BCS National Champions hailing from the Mighty SEC (Florida and Alabama twice each, LSU and Auburn once each). Eight of the 14 total BCS champs have come from the SEC (that’s 57 percent for you math geniuses).

All told, the SEC has sent nine teams to the championship game with the only loser being LSU (which lost to fellow-SEC Alabama this January). Compare that to seven and six total participants from the Big 12 and ACC respectively. No ACC team has even made it to the BCS National Championship Game since the 2002 season.

In short, the SEC has completely owned the college football landscape since that Tebow guy, down on one knee, graced The Swamp with his otherworldly virgin presence back in ’06.

Compare that to the robust AL West. In that same time frame, from 1998 to present, three teams from the division have made it to the World Series, with only the 2002 Angels taking home the Commissioner’s Trophy. Sure the Texas Rangers have made it to the last two (one strike away!) and will be a huge threat to do it again, but the AL West has no unprecedented SEC-type run.

On top of that, only six times since 1994 (the inception of the wild card) has an American League West team even made it into the playoffs as a wild card. Needless to say, the competition isn’t nearly as fierce.

In the grand scheme things, the SEC is the tougher test, but is mostly top heavy, very top heavy, as in a Dolly Parton kind of way. As of right now and for the foreseeable future, the AL West will also be a pretty top heavy division with the Rangers and Angels battling it out for supremacy for years to come. Although the Aggies and Astros are joining two very different leagues, it’s clear neither team will be competitive right away.

It’s like they’re both starting over as the neighborhood cover band trying to win a battle of the bands up against the likes of Led Zeppelin and The Beatles.

Astros vs. Aggies

The Astros will most likely enter the 2013 season coming off the worst record in all of baseball (again) with seemingly no help in sight. They have a ball club unfit for even the National League and they’ll be taking it into a division that has Josh Hamilton, Nelson Cruz and Albert Pujols swinging for the fences. That already-bad team ERA is destined to be at least a full run higher in the American League.

Try higher than the DOW.

It’s not good to get swept by the Pirates and the Cubs in back-to-back series, but imagine a Red Sox and Yankees back-to-back.

So the Astros will enter the AL with Bud Norris and 5-foot-5 Jose Altuve as their cornerstones barring a big-time, free-agent signing this winter. Sure general manager Jeff

Jose Altuve, Photo courtesy of Michelle Watson | CatchLightGroup.com

Luhnow will have another top pick to work with next June, but who knows if we’ll even be around to see it (Mayan forecasts and all). Simple answer here is the Astros will be staring the worst record in franchise history in the face yet again.

The Aggies are in a similar, yet uniquely different position. Coming into the SEC, Texas A&M lacks the cornerstone of any team — an experienced starting quarterback. With the departure of Ryan Tannehill (and his smoking hot wife), the Aggies are going to have to find someone else fast to throw for 5,000 yards against the most feared defenses this side of Southern California.

It’ll be interesting to see how coach Kevin Sumlin and his new Aggies perform against the hefty SEC defenses with that Cougar High spread system he ran at the University of Houston.

They will also be switching from a 3-4 to 4-3 defense, which we’ve seen a number of teams have trouble adapting to in football. This could be a good move if it weren’t for their exceptionally thin D-line which should make the Marcus Lattimores of the world pretty giddy. They do return a fairly experienced nucleus with tailback Christine Michael, a Julian Edelman 2.0 in wide receiver Ryan Swope and preseason All-American left tackle Luke Joeckel — it’s a pretty safe bet to take them over the Norris-Altuve combo.

To add to that the Aggies are working on a great 2013 recruiting class which hopefully will pay off and help in the transition. But the greatest thing Texas A&M gets to work with is the great tradition and support it will receive from its fans — some of the strongest, arguably even cultish, fans in all the land. Considering the fact that the Aggies’ two-deep roster will outnumber the amount of total fans at a future Astros-Mariners game, the 83,000 strong who will show up at EVERY A&M game will give them an edge their opponents may not be completely ready to face.

While Texas A&M may not hit the SEC championship game in the next 10 or even 20 years, there’s a high chance it will be bowl eligible right off the bat. There are plenty of Kentuckys and Ole Misses to beat up on and they will stand toe to toe with the representatives from Mizzou, Mississippi State and Auburn.

It may not be the start Aggie fans are hoping for, but they’ll bring some noise early on.

When it all boils down to it the Astros and Aggies are going to have a few things in common They both will get beaten handily by teams that will vie for championships. They both will be going to strange new lands filled with some of the best and baddest players in their respective sports — things neither team has much of.

There will also be some things they don’t have in common. The Astros will be moving divisions without anyone to lead their team. The Aggies will at least have some top-notch athletes to grace the field as well as their sidelines. The Astros will be sitting firmly in the cellar of their own division, while the Aggies will be playing for some form of postseason life, probably a bowl in Mobile or Boise, or something as equally unimpressive, but a bowl nonetheless.

Putting their leagues in perspective, the Astros just have to win some games for fans and analysts to see progress and a vast improvement over the past few years, whereas in college football, the only perfect season is just that — perfect, zero losses. Remember, the Aggies left of their own volition while the Astros hands were forced into this new level of domination, otherwise soon to be known as hell.

At the end of the day, each organization will go on. Diehard fans will cheer and argue whether or not this was a smart move for either team. In the end, the Aggies will have the upper hand. You’ll see.

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

August 9, 2012/by Jayme

Put Me In Coach

Football

Denver Broncos Mitch Unrein warming up

To the tune of the famous John Fogerty song, except replace baseball’s Centerfield reference for a football tackle and you’ve got Mitch Unrein’s theme song for the past two seasons in the NFL.

“Put me in coach… I’m ready to play… TODAY.”

Having entered the NFL with the Texans as a college free agent back on May 7, 2010, Unrein has been center-stage to one of the most homegrown stories you’ll hear in the NFL – that is, if you’ve ever heard of him.

Odds are, if you’re not one of the 3500 people from his hometown of Eaton, CO or an avid fan of the Denver Broncos, this is the first time you’ve heard his name.

I had the chance to speak to Unrein last week while in Denver just after he finished another grueling day at training camp. At 6-foot-4, 291lbs, the guy is considered small for his position at tackle, which is clearly an odd concept for a little blonde gal barely standing at 5-foot-2.

Unrein, who went from an undrafted player at Wyoming, to being cut by the Houston Texans, to a regular on the Bronco’s practice squad, to last year finally finding a spot in the defensive rotation, now finds himself again in his second active season, yet again trying to make an even bigger name for himself. A more memorable one for coaches and fans. Preferably one with a few key stats resting along side it. Last year as a reserve defensive lineman for the Broncos, Unrein racked up seven tackles; five of which were solo tackles – not too shabby for a bench-warmer.

Trying to keep his roster spot, Unrein says his biggest focus this season is on becoming a more complete player working on his size and speed mostly. Having played defensive end in college, Unrein didn’t quite have the speed to play the position at an NFL level. “It takes a lot to block 325lb guys,” he admitted.

The Broncos just released their first depth chart of the season, and it looks like, for now, the hard work of Unrein has paid off, where he’s slotted as a second stringer at nose tackle.

No longer eligible for practice squad after suiting up in 14 games last season, Unrein stresses, “it’s all or nothing now.” Adhering to the motto hardwork does pay off, Unrein has been living day in and day out in the NFL as if it were his last. “I’ve always had something to prove, and I still have that fire. I’m still trying to reach my full potential,” he said.

Defensive Tackle, Mitch Unrein

Not only focused on his spot on the Broncos roster, Unrein was also antsy about the Olympics during our chat. His girlfriend of over a year, Corey Cogdell was getting ready to participate in her second Olympic Games. A bronze medalist in Women’s Trap Shooting in 2008 in Beijing, Cogdell shot Saturday, although not medaling this time around. “I’m so incredibly proud of her. I like that she’s a high profile athlete – we understand training, postponing dates, etc. I like cheering for others, not being cheered for. I grew up the youngest of six so I”m used to cheering them on too,” Unrein said. “It’s certainly a nice change of pace and I know how important having people in your corner can be.”

It’s hard for an Eagles fan like myself to talk to any NFL player without some reference to my kelly green team so it seemed reasonable to chat about Brian Dawkins and his recent retirement. One of the questions circling the interwebs since then has been who was going to step up on defense as a leader in his extreme absence. “We’ve brought in more veteran guys and more guys are stepping up,” Unrein said. “There’s no way to replace a guy like Brian Dawkins – he’s such a professional. The guy is a physical freak-specimen; his speed, his passion. He was an emotional leader in Denver and it was awesome to watch,” he said.

Unrein admits it still hasn’t hit him that he’s made his dream of becoming an NFL player. “You can never be satisfied in the NFL because someone always wants your job. I’m a young guy – I still haven’t had that ‘ah-ha’ moment that defines me as a player. It’s a blessing and I always keep working hard. I know this game isn’t going to last forever.”

Rapid fire with Mitch Unrein:

The Blonde Side: Who are your top 5 fantasy players?

Unrein: I don’t play.

The Blonde Side: What’s the most random fact about you?

Unrein: I’m color blind. One of my brother’s is too. I used to confuse Red/Brown, Blue/Purple and Green/Orange.

The Blonde Side: Are the Broncos blue or purple?

Unrein (laughing): Duh, blue.

The Blonde Side: Of course I have to ask – Super Bowl predictions?

Unrein: We’ll see. We’ve got 16 games to see if we can make it…

August 8, 2012/by Jayme

Brian Dawkin Makes His Exit from NFL

Football

Former Eagles Safety, Brian Dawkins Retires From NFL

As with most things in life, after 16 seasons, fans get tired. Whether it’s another horny middle-aged man hitting on the grossly thin admin assistant on Survivor, the country bumpkin who came from nothing on American Idol, or the 27th season of Real World in Miami, fans eventually die down each and every week, each and every season.

But Monday, as former Philadelphia Eagles and Denver Broncos safety Brian Dawkins announced his retirement (via Twitter) from the NFL after 16 highlight-reeled seasons and nine Pro Bowls, I’m left with the question: “Was anyone done with No. 20?”

Dawkins spent 13 hard-hitting seasons in Philadelphia after being drafted in the second round of the 1996 draft out of Clemson. That very season, Dawkins quickly showed me how important the role of a safety was.

To this day my dad still thinks he was the one who taught me all the tips to play the defensive position, but in truth it was Dawkins who taught me that reading the quarterback’s eyes was a surefire way to snag an interception. It was Dawkins who showed me how be a leader on my very own sports teams and how to be loud and in charge. It was Dawkins who showed me how to viciously tackle an opposing sorority girl at the knees and drill her into the ground. It was Dawkins who showed me that a player playing off the line of scrimmage wasn’t a B-team kind of athlete—he was in fact quite the opposite. It was Dawkins who showed me defensive players were just as important as offensive players.

For girls, those are the kinds of integral aspects of sports that create a real and genuine understanding and love of the game.

After playing almost his entire career with the Eagles, 2009 marked what could easily be one of the greatest mistakes in franchise history by letting Weapon X become a free agent and allowing him to sign a five-year deal with that we-just-traded-Tim-Tebow-for-Peyton-Manning-team. Now, once again a free agent, the quick and agile DB decided to leave the turf on an all-too-rare high note, leaving fans like me desperately hoping he pulls a Brett Favre. (I’m not talking camera phones; I’m talking a change of heart.)

Weapon X Doing His Thing In Philly

To be able to play in Philly is to be able to play anywhere. To last as long as Dawkins did with the rowdy fanbase (the one I am so proud to call my own) without fans turning on him or throwing batteries says a lot about his character both on and off the field.

Dawkins was, and is, the epitome of all that Philly fans expect: to be able to talk the talk and back it up. The man was a reckless beast on the field. He could get to a pass faster than Heidi Montag could get to a plastic surgeon and he could do it numerous times.

Number of pass breakups for Dawkins: 98.

Number of plastic surgeries for Montag: 10. That we know of.

To read the full article, visit Bleacher Report.

Also, check out The Blonde Side’s profile and column in Bleacher Report.

April 28, 2012/by Jayme

Texans Mock NFL Draft

Football

Clearly was way off in my draft pick as the Texans picked Whitney Mercilus in the first round.

Thanks to the wonderful world wide web (read, mostly Twitter), I was asked to participate in a 2012 Mock NFL Draft with Alicia Jessop over at Ruling Sports. Living in Houston and being fairly tapped into the strengths and weaknesses of the Texans, Jessop asked The Blonde Side to give some thoughts on where the Texans would direct their first-round draft pick.

Below is my super long-winded (surprising, right?) answer to her simple question. Keep in mind, this was my first attempt at putting somewhat knowledgeable words into one of these. Usually I just slam a few drinks and throw out my completely biased opinions. This was really fun and I was in great company with some ridiculously smart NFL guys. Read the entire Mock Draft at Ruling Sports.

Writing my own sports column, The Blonde Side and being credentialed by the Houston Texans, one would think I’d be a bit more confident in predicting who I think the Texans will draft on Thursday, but truth be told, I’m more confident in my ability to put on eye liner with my left hand. After drinking a case of beer. Not to mention, the Texans are so far at the end of the draft (26th overall), it’s a crap-shoot.

While Texans fans don’t want to admit the solid Draft history of the franchise, the proof is in the pudding: selecting seven players who have gone on to participate in the Pro Bowl since 2002. Coming off a franchise best record (10-6), for the first time in history, the Texans don’t have any gaping holes screwing with their depth chart. From all I’ve heard and what my gut tells me, the Texans have to go for a WR – someone opposite Andre Johnson or to fill the gap if he (knock on wood) gets riddled with injuries again. The Texans haven’t drafted a WR since 2010, when they selected Dorin Dickerson from Pittsburgh in the 7th round. It’s time. And Texans fans and sports brainiacs will agree – A. Johnson is a beast, but his hamstring can’t do it alone.

After Johnson went out with his injury early last season, the Texans had to rely on a run game, thankfully carried by another Pro-Bowler Arian Foster. But if Shaub is healthy this season (or Yates comes back like a wild man), he’s got to have someone else to throw to. The NFL is all about options. Outside of Texas, the offense players names are virtually obsolete – no one knows many of the other guys on the roster.

When we talk WR’s in this year’s draft, there seem to be two names filling up the world wide web: Stephen Hill, the 6’4″ 215lb rockstar from Georgia Tech and Kendall Wright, the 5’11” 190lb almost hometown boy from Baylor. Although small, Wright is my choice, after listening to Joe Fortenbaugh’s reasoning and it’s true – he can stretch the defense across the field like nobody’s business which is exactly what Houston needs to take that franchise best record even further. If the Texans are trying to find an AJ clone, then Hill is your clear choice as they are much more compatible in the size department, but the speed of Wright shant be underestimated. I guess it’ll all boil down to what picks are left come the Texans turn, but I stay strong with my WR pick for the Texans first round pick.

And if you’re still as fairly clueless as I am on who the Texans will draft, here’s what General Manager/Executive Vice President, Rick Smith had to say at Tuesdays Pre-Draft Press Conference (which clearly still doesn’t shed any light on the draft situation), “I think if you look across our football team, the first thing I think you would think about, on the offensive line, losing a couple starters, via free agency in one case and then a determination in another case. But we’ve got to look at the offensive line group. I’ve said at the Combine earlier that I think we can probably help ourselves at the wide receiver position with maybe adding some youth and adding some speed there. And then depth in the linebacker corps. You can always add pass rushers. You can always add corners, I’ve always said that. We’ll do what we always do. We’ll stay true to our board. We’ve assessed a value that we think these players have at their particular positions and the way that it falls is the way that we’ll pick them.”hink if you look across our football team, the first thing I think you would think about, on the offensive line, losing a couple starters, via free agency in one case and then a determination in another case. But we’ve got to look at the offensive line group. I’ve said at the Combine earlier that I think we can probably help ourselves at the wide receiver position with maybe adding some youth and adding some speed there. And then depth in the linebacker corps. You can always add pass rushers. You can always add corners, I’ve always said that. We’ll do what we always do. We’ll stay true to our board. We’ve assessed a value that we think these players have at their particular positions and the way that it falls is the way that we’ll pick them.”

April 27, 2012/by Jayme

What Do NFL Players Do On Draft Night? Go Bowling!

Football

Travis Johnson & Kailee Wong pose with Houston Texans Cheerleaders (Marissa & Larissa) (Photo: MD Turner Photography)

While most NFL fans and players were glued to their HD televisions for the draft Thursday night, there were a select few more concerned with supporting a local cause: Travis Johnson, defensive end drafted by the Texans in 2005, and his Travis Johnson Foundation, which provides grants for rehabilitation for children suffering strokes and other major illnesses, as his four-year-old daughter did.

Among the players in attendance: Andre Johnson (Texans), Johnathan Joseph (Texans), Greg Jones (Jacksonville Jaguars), Dunta Robinson (Atlanta Falcons) and Tina Thompson (the WNBA Seattle Storm) just to name a few. The only game these big names were worried about was who could walk away with bragging rights as the best bowler.

The sports-studded evening at 300 Houston Bowling Lounge off Bunker Hill was filled with smack talking, high fives, jokes — and, more importantly, lots of donations.

At the beginning of the event, founder and former Texan (now free agent) Travis Johnson told the story of his daughter Zoe and their firsthand account as she suffered two strokes, which caused paralysis in the left side of her body. He recognizes and is thankful that his family was able to provide her with the best care during this trying ordeal, but realizes others may not have the means.

“We were fortunate, but not everyone’s fortunate in this kind of situation. The goal of the Travis Johnson Foundation is to let them be kids again,” he said before thanking his former teammates for joining him at his event.

Chris Hope (Tennessee Titans Strong Safety and Florida State guy), Andre Johnson & Travis Johnson strike a pose. (Photo: MD Turner Photography)

Even a few of his former Florida State teammates flew in just to show their support for the big night.

It was a big night in more ways than one. It also happened to be Travis Johnson’s 30^th birthday where his wife surprised him with a 3-0 red velvet and vanilla cake. Let me be the first to say this may be a group of extraordinary charitable athletes, but they cannot carry a tune. I’ve never before laughed and cringed at the singing of “Happy Birthday,” but I knew it came from a good place.

The First Annual ‘Strike Out Strokes’ Celebrity Bowling Tournament was presented by Momentum Porsche Jaguar Land Rover, where guests were either personally invited or donated to to cause to attend.

The only lull in the competitive bowling or “thank you for all you do” talk was around 9:30 p.m. when the four TVs in the private bowling room showed NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell set to announce the Texans’ first-round pick in the draft (26^th overall). The sound came on and the crowd got quiet as Goodell announced the Texans pick of linebacker Whitney Mercilus (marking the fourth straight year the Texans have drafted a defensive player in the first round of the draft).

Shortly after the pick, the crowd returned their focus to more important things: The fierce bowling tournament to raise funds to provide assistance to families in need of financial support for children who have suffered major illnesses and are in need of rehabilitation or therapeutic services.

Tina Thompson, WNBA Player for Seattle Storm bowls (Photo: MD Turner Photography)

“The funds raised through this event will provide a better quality of life for children who have suffered a major illness or trauma and need rehabilitation services. I know firsthand how this affects families. It’s important for them to know there are people out there who care, that I care,” Travis Johnson said.

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

April 27, 2012/by Jayme

The Field Of Acting

Football

Isaac Keys, Former NFL Linebacker for the Cardinals

Isaac Keys: a name you may or may not know. Whether it’s from football, acting, or being an all around inspirational guy, his name comes up in many a conversation, not to mention Google searches.

Odds are, he’s been on your TV at least once. The Saint Louis, MO native has had a few stints on the big screen, either as a former NFL linebacker for the Arizona Cardinals, a contestant on Omarosa Manigault-Stallworth’s dating reality show The Ultimate Merger (she was the protégé from Donald Trump’s Apprentice and this dating show is a scaled down version of The Bachelor), or as McDonald’s Man of McCafe looking mighty fine. Professional football player-turned-actor, Keys is finally finding his stride, this time in a new arena.

Since The Blonde Side is a sport’s column, my obvious interest in interviewing Keys was about sports. When most people think of professional athletes, they think of guys like LeBron or A-Rod– someone the media and every single notable in the sporting world has been watching since the age of four just foaming at the mouth ready to cut him a check with entirely too many zeroes. But for a lot of the other guys, it’s their hardwork and unprecedented dedication that propels them to that next level.

Take Keys for instance. He was able to walk on to the University of North Alabama’s football team and then later Morehouse College. During his bit at Morehouse, he was a Pre-season All American, 2-time Defensive Lineman of the year and was selected for the 1^st team All Conference. Pretty impressive, right? But not enough to make him one of those bigtime SportsCenter names rotating through each hourly broadcast and still not enough to get drafted, but just enough to get signed as an undrafted free agent by the Vikings in 2001.

After being riddled with injury after injury, Keys finally settled into his role with the Arizona Cardinals in 2004, lasting three seasons. No longer in the game (at least not the one on the field), Keys gave me a little insight into his role back then as a free agent where he frequently refers to himself as a “blue-collar athlete.”

“We weren’t all millionaires,” he explained. At the time of his signing back in 2001, the league minimum was $209k, but Keys notes he didn’t make that much. Instead he made a split salary, which dropped to $120k – which is still good money, but not the kind of money we lay people think of when we think of an NFL player + Bank of America. “The public was used to seeing #1 draft picks, millionaires, endorsement deals and guaranteed salaries – no one sees ‘my kind’. It was hard. I was in the life, but not living the life,” Keys explains. “I was putting forth sacrifice on my body and my career, without any guarantee. The average player lasts about 3 years, but it takes it takes 4 years to get your pension. If you get released, you never know how long it’ll take to get picked up again and there’s always a fear of being cut. My parent’s didn’t understand my life until they first watched HBO’s Hard Knocks – it sounds funny but it finally gave the public an impression of the mental, physical and emotional side of athletes,” he says. Keys was spot on: for a good majority of the time and within most front offices, they are more invested in a 1^st or 3^rd round pick than they’d be with say your typical run-of-the-mill free agent.

His last year with the Cardinals was a bit of a roller coaster. The team released him, brought him back, then moved him to the practice squad and after a couple more dosey doe moves all the while having kept him under the radar where other teams wouldn’t notice him, his value dropped. Well past $120k and well out of the league. “The phone just stopped ringing,” Keys recalls.

Having been out of the NFL for almost 5 years, Keys explains, “I didn’t stop playing football, football stopped playing me.” But fear not, this is not some sad desolate “poor guy” kind of story. Football “quitting him” opened up new doors as he set out on a soul-searching endeavor in an attempt to find what else he was passionate about. As he started getting comfortable in front of the cameras, Keys realized this was another natural talent of his and ran with it, no pun intended.

Photo Courtesy of Michael Letterlough

Currently his next big goal? Aiming for a feature film or sitcom. As you can see on his website, he’s definitely putting some valuable face time in front of the camera as of late. Turns out, acting and football are a lot more alike than you think.

[The Blonde Side] Compare NFL to acting.

[Keys] Call me crazy, but they are kind of the same, without the physical aspect. Acting is just as unstable as football. Just like football, acting requires you to put yourself out there – for others to critique and judge you. Both professions require me to watch film and both are an extreme balance of learning to handle your emotions.

[The Blonde Side] Which has more competition?

[Keys] They are equally competitive. Somewhere down the line, someone eventually gets their break (like Brady when Bledsoe got hurt back in 2001). LA is an expensive city to live in, people have to throw in the towel at some point and head back home. A lot of people want to do both, that’s why they are both tough industries. Cuba Gooding Jr. got his break after being an extra (in a barber chair) in Coming to America – you’ve got to learn from guys like him and be persistent.

[The Blonde Side] What feels more natural – acting or football?

[Keys] Now, acting. Then of course, football. I felt like I was born to act and it allows me to show more of who I am.

[The Blonde Side] Favorite actor?

[Keys] Will Smith – I like his range and his personality, charm and charisma.

[The Blonde Side] Favorite NFL player?

[Keys] Lawrence Taylor and Mike Singletary – I’ve played both of these positions and both of these guys are playmakers. Taylor was just a beast on the field and Singletary played with such tenacity.

[The Blonde Side] What are you most proud of you in your career(s)?

[Keys] Not just one thing. It’s the obstacles I’ve overcome. I’m doing things most people dream of – millions of people dream of playing in the NFL and I can say I’ve done that. Millions want to be on TV – I’m doing that. I’m very blessed.

Wise words to leave you with from Mr. Keys: Live life. Don’t let life live you.

Follow @isaackeys on Twitter and check out his website at IsaacKeys.com.

This was also part of The Blonde Side’s 30 Before 30 series.

February 29, 2012/by Jayme

Playoffs, Diamonds and Dogpiles. And Smart Cars Too.

Football

Kids, Playoffs, Diamonds and Dogpiles. Oh, And Smart Cars Too.

The Duane Brown Almost-Tell-All Interview

I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Texans Offensive Tackle Duane Brown a number of times over the course of the year. The first time we met, he confessed he was a pretty “boring and average guy” and that he may not make the best interview subject. After posting a simple question on Twitter and Facebook asking fans what they’d ask if they could ask anything from an NFL OT, I figured the best way to handle this interview was a smorgasbord of unrelated questions resulting in the most unflowing, yet highly informative and comprehensive interview of a pro athlete you’ve ever seen, so here goes…

In the middle of my first question, his phone rings and politely asks if he can take the call. A few minutes later I hear, “thanks coach, that’s awesome, thanks!” and hangs up.

JL: Good news I presume?

D. Brown: (smiling) Yeah. Kubiak just told me I made it as an alternate to the Pro Bowl.

JL: That’s awesome buddy, congrats. Does that mean you get to go to Hawaii?

D. Brown: I guess if someone gets injured, yeah. But I plan to be getting ready for the Super Bowl, so I’m not worried about it.

Diamonds

Around Thanksgiving, Duane got engaged to his beautiful long distance girlfriend, Devon. For a big guy, he sure can be sneaky. They met up in LA for a little R&R and Duane said he had to fly to Dallas a day early. He planned a nice dinner for her, said his goodbye and then headed to a friend’s house to keep the surprise intact. The next day he surprised her at dinner, where many of her friends and family were, and pulled out a stunning diamond ring. Like most women, Devon had hinted around at the perfect ring she wanted to lay claim on her left hand for the rest of her life. Duane took those ideas and showed a handful of rings to her best friends. “They helped me choose the perfect one,” he said. The couple means business too – they’ve already set a date for July 13, 2012. As for kids, “Yeah – we’re taking our time with it. She has a lot going on with her career and I respect that,” Brown says.

JL: Long distance sucks, huh?

D. Brown: Yeah, but we get to see each other pretty often. I just flew up to NY and saw her for Christmas and she comes to almost all my home games.

JL: What was the best gift you got this Christmas? Was it those black and red Jordans you’re wearing?

D. Brown: People are going crazy over those shoes, right? All those fights – that’s crazy man. My girl got me a digital picture frame – that was probably my favorite gift.

The Blind Side

The main (and pretty much only) job of an OT is to protect the quarterback. In just 15 games this season, Brown has already had to protect three different QBs – Schaub who throws right, Leinart who throws left, and now Yates who is also a righty. Just as the movie indicates, there is such thing as a Blind Side, which when a right-handed QB is in, is Brown’s position as he plays left tackle. When a righty drops back in the pocket, he can’t see what’s coming from his left – he’s not as quick to move away from a defensive tackle or defensive end because he can’t see them. A few people asked if the change in QB throwing arms creates a change in play for Duane. “I don’t have to change my technique at all, our offensive scheme changes a bit, but my first priority is always to protect to the QB regardless of his throwing arm,” he says.

Since I write a sport’s column titled, The Blonde Side, I figured I’d ask about the 2009 movie starring Michael Oher.

JL: Do people understand your position better since the movie, The Blind Side came out?

D. Brown: I run across a lot of people that have zero idea about football and say I play left tackle. They always ask what that is and I reference the movie. They seem to get it after that.

JL: What about Michael Oher?

D. Brown: He’s a great player, great guy as well. I got a chance to meet him his rookie year.

Dogpiles and Clothes

Probably one of the best questions someone asked on Facebook was what really goes on in a dogpile? When I asked Duane, he laughed. “A lot of profanity, pushing, shoving, punching, kicking, more punching – anything to get the ball. It’s pretty violent down there,” he confessed. “Really, anything goes, but the refs do a good job to regulate as soon as possible. You gotta always pay attention.”

JL: You do seem to be at the bottom of a number of pile-ups.

D. Brown: I always try to be around the ball carrier to protect him and the ball. My first priority is to get the ball if a defensive guy knocks it out, but secondly, I gotta protect my teammates.

JL: I would assume as the biggest guy on the team, you are the one most of the littler guys look to for protection?

D. Brown: I think I’m the biggest…yeah, as far as weight, for sure. Eric (Winston) is taller than me, but I still weigh more.

JL: Speaking of your size, you’re 6-4, 320lbs, right?

D. Brown: Well I’ve lost a few pounds. I’m about 314 right now.

JL: Is it hard to find clothes?

D. Brown: (laughing) Yeah, it’s very hard to go shopping. I get a few things at Destination XL off Westheimer, but most of my stuff I buy online (like elevee).

Hokie Pride

As I’ve told Duane a number of times, I am not a Hokie fan. I grew up in Virginia, but something about those VT Hokies just drives me crazy. In response to my tweet, another of Duane’s fans asked what it was like coming out to “Enter The Sandman” at Lane Stadium. “It’s the most amazing feeling in the world – I’ve never felt an energy like that. The atmosphere in that stadium, the fans, the music – it’s second to none,” he reminisces. “Everytime I hear that song, I get goosebumps,” he continued.

JL: Do you think Devon will let you rock that song at your wedding?

D. Brown: (laughing) Nah, she won’t have that.

JL: How do you feel about the upcoming Sugar Bowl?

D. Brown: I’m proud of them to still make it to a BCS Bowl Game. It’ll be a pretty good one against Michigan. I think it’ll be a high scoring game; hopefully we can pull it off.

O-Line Success

It’s no secret that every year the Texans offensive line seems to get better and better. Someone wanted to know how much time these guys spend together during the season and the offseason because their cohesion just seems to work. “We all try to improve individually, but as a group, we are the most tight knit unit on the team. For the most part we’ve all been together the past three years. We have a feeling for what the guy next door is going to do so we don’t have to communicate a lot,” Duane explains.

JL: Who’s the hardest Defensive End you’ve had to block?

D. Brown: Dwight Freeney. He’s a sure 1^st ballot Hall of Famer. I have to face him twice a year. I haven’t given up any sacks against him this year – I think I’ve finally figured out a game plan against him, but he’s tough.

JL: There’s been a lot of talk about the absence of Mike Brisiel…

D. Brown: It’s tough without him; I’ll give you that. It’s unfortunate that he got hurt (fractured fibula), but Antoine Caldwell has done a good job stepping up. Luckily he’s taken a lot of reps during practice and we really haven’t missed a beat. But Mike should be back for the playoffs.

Speaking of the Playoffs…

“I’m excited, man. This is unchartered territory for our organization and for me personally,” he said.

JL: Are you nervous?

D. Brown: Not too nervous. I’ve heard it’s a different speed in the playoffs. I’m more excited than anything.

JL: Your ideal Super Bowl matchup?

D. Brown: Well Houston obviously. I’ll go with Houston vs. New Orleans. Even though the Packers are doing great, the Saints beat us earlier this year (33-40 in Week 3) and now I’d like to return the favor. They also bring a lot of great fans to the game and that just ups the intensity.

New Year’s Resolutions

It’s that time when everyone, even athletes, create a laundry list of things they want to do better in the New Year. Just a few days away from that ominous day on the calendar, I asked Duane what his resolutions were. “I used to be big on New Year’s Resolutions, but why wait until January 1st to change something. There’s no better time than the present,” he says.

JL: That seems to fit you. Anything you’re currently working on at doing better?

D. Brown: Trying to read more. I get bored easily and I’m trying to break out of the video game habit. I’m currently reading Art of War.

Running and Smart Cars

As I’m currently training for the Houston Half Marathon next month, I couldn’t help but wonder how far the big man himself could run.

JL: Could you run a mile without stopping?

D. Brown: I could do a mile, yeah. It wouldn’t be pretty, but I could do it.

JL: What about a 5k?

D. Brown: A what?

JL: A 5k. That’s 3.1 miles.

D. Brown: Nah, not a shot in hell.

JL: I know I keep harping on your size, but you are the largest man I’ve ever see. It’s so fascinating to me. Think you could fit in a smart car?

D. Brown: (laughing) Yeah, I actually have. Danny Clark (former Texans Linebacker) used to have one and I could fit in there. It’s not comfortable though. It was a convertible too so I think that might have made it easier.

JL: I’d give money to see you in a smart car. If I could find a dealership and a photographer to make this happen, you game?

D. Brown: Sure.

Hear that Houston Smart Car dealerships? Call me – let’s make this happen.

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

This was also part of The Blonde Side’s 30 Before 30 series.

January 6, 2012/by Jayme