Chicks. Who get's em?
If you haven't heard from every female's facebook status, MTV, or pretty much every news outlet that is already showing the lines of girls ages one to one hundred lining outside local movie theaters... an installment of the Twilight series "New Moon" drops at midnight tonight. song.
Temporarily forget the fact that this is another contraption contrived by the female psyche to further increase the unattainable expectations placed on men in society.... now I have to be a vampire too? I think the reaction to this movie or book, or both, provides us (those with hang-downs) a revelation into that that is girl. It's safe to say that we (those with balls) will never understand the opposite gender, but every theory is worth at very least discussing.
Thesis: The connection between girl and "x" is viewed by girl as a dating relationship.
Consider the girls you know. How many of them have had their other girl-friends (not that kind stay focused) over a long period of time? If anything, isn't it on-again-off-again at best? Put anything in "x" in the thesis and see if it works.
The connection between girl and "ice cream" is viewed by girl as a dating relationship. Sounds about right. Ice cream is the "rebound guy" that after a while "isn't good for them" and shortly dumped thereafter.
The connection between girl and "purse" is viewed by girl as a dating relationship. Check. As I watch my beloved females dig through keys, lip gloss, bananas, pockets, receipts, basic first aid, in their purse I can't help but think those things are anything but functional. And neither are we (those with a scrotum). How many times have you heard them say "god I hate this thing" as you wait for a quarter, only to see it dumped for a better looking, less functional one later.
The connection between girl and "girl" is viewed by girl as a dating relationship. And by societal rules, you can only date one girl at a time. It's why girls hate other girls. They're jealous, spiteful, or disinterested in them. This is why the glass ceiling is taking so long to break down. It's like the tribes of the Native Americans. If they could have just united against the white man maybe meth addiction wouldn't be such a problem in the reservation communities. Hell.. maybe I would be living on a reservation. Instead, the Iroquois allied with the English, and the Huron allied with the French.
Likewise, just when you think they are all united behind Twilight, they remain divided between team Edward and team Jacob. The thing with relationships is that I don't get them, and therefore I don't get them. The thesis is beautifully cyclical. I duno. I don't get it. And I never will. But boy do I love them and their boobs.
(apologies to the ladies out there.. only joking...I love you all... I'm just not Edward Cullen-oscopy)
Last week: 8-4
All time: 69-68... I'm back above five hundo bitches
Miami Dolphins (+3) over CAROLINA PANTHERS
It's no secret I don't like Lebron James. (see here... and here) I think the overriding aspect of what I don't like about him is that primarily, he is "mainstream." It's why I prefer Carmelo Anthony over Lebron James and Dwayne Wade. It's why I prefer Jay Cutler to Tony Romo. It's why I prefer the deceased Kurt Cobain to the living Eddie Vedder. SI.com to ESPN.com. Vh1 classic to Vh1. Paint drying to MTV.
Fundamentally everything that is "mainstream" anymore seems to me is just really a facade for "all about the money," isn't it? Call me an idealist but I prefer the people that "stick to their guns" so to speak, rather than selling themselves out to what everyone wants them to be. Look, if you are what everyone wants you to be then it's no secret you'll be making the most money. That's just simple supply and demand. But that's why Kurt Cobain ate a shotgun like a bowl of Peanut Butter Captain Crunch (it cuts the roof of your mouth). He saw his music becoming part of the "machine" of what "everyone wanted." And it literally killed him. Yeah, he took it a little far I guess, but at least he stood for something. Eddie Vedder used to brilliantly portray the teenage angst and flip off "the man," now he's on Target commercials. Likewise it brings me back to Lebron James. Lebron could be remembered for one of two things. First, be the first billion dollar athlete, or second, rescue the lives of a couple million Cleveland sports fans who with the Browns, Indians, and and Lebron-less Cavaliers, would otherwise have nothing to cheer for for another 30 years. Money vs. Meaning. I just think the latter is far cooler.
I guess what I'm really trying to get at is that Ricky Williams is one of my favorite athletes of all time, and he gets no love.
People talk about Tim Tebow as the greatest college football player of all time. Did you know Ricky Williams holds or shares 20 NCAA records? This man broke Tony Doresett's previous 22 year long career rushing record in college, even though it was out-done the next year by Ron Dayne. The man won a Heisman. Drafted fifth overall by the New Orleans Saints he appeared in a wedding dress on the cover of ESPN the magazine.
Oh yeah.... this guy was also drafted by the Phillies out of High Shcool!
After the 'Aints sucked, Ricky was traded to the Miami Dolphins. There, he became the NFL's leading rusher (1853 yards in one season).... And then the marijuana stories kicked in. Now, it is of the opinion of this column that Ricky was unfairly targeted for being a little "different," he often did interviews with his helmet on, and was often shy and curt with the media. Ricky Williams would fail four drug tests for testing positive for the ganja, leading to his retirement, and one year suspension from the NFL.
During his retirement, Ricky studied Ayurveda, an ancient holistic Indian medicine, supposedly contributing to his fourth failed drug test. You know?... It's just Ricky doing his thing. I don't think marijuana has ever been labeled a performance enhancer (though my golf game, financial analysis, and comedic timing might tell you otherwise... even if it is in my own mind). But regardless, Ricky has been labeled a no good hippie washed up football player ever since.
Now he's back.Last year, and for the first half of this season, he has been the second head of a double craniumed monster rushing attach that NFL teams have had to grudgingly game plan for week in and week out. Now, Ronnie Brown is out for the season, and the holistic healer finds himself the feature back. A final hurrah for Ricky to show everyone he ain't done. All I'm tryin' to say is... go Ricky.. I dedicate thursday's bowl to you. (and carry my fantasy team to glory)
DETROIT LIONS (-3.5) over Cleveland Browns
A question, what are the odds the Browns fire Mangini and hire their third Bill Belichik assistant with a thyroid glandular problem Charlie Weiss? A note about Charlie Weiss, one coach has led one of the all time great college football programs to a 35-25 record, one coach has led an all time great college football program to a 13-24 record... Which one is for sure getting fired?... That would be Charlie Weiss.
In recent reading, I'm more confident than ever that Hawk love will be taking his program sodomization out of Boulder, but still, the fact that it is still "up in the air" is questionable at best.
And as for Lebron talking about playing for the Browns... shut the fuck up Glen Davis.
Buffalo Bills (+8.5) cover JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
If no one even goes to watch this game, do the Jags really have a home-field advantage?
Shanahan agreeing to coach the Bills may be like settling for the cool chick, instead of waiting for the knockout to inevitably break up with her boyfriend. The thing about it, the cool chick has a great personality that you get along great with. It has the potential to turn into a long lasting and productive relationship. Sure the knockout is well, a knockout... but chances are she'll probably just move on to someone else when she gets bored with you. Teams like the Cowboys and the Redskins are like those knockouts, sure there may be some early success, the talent is there, potential for some championships, and lots of awesome sex. But the knockout isn't going to let you take your time, build to something long term that could be great like the cool chick. The Bills are the cool chick with personality talent like Lee Evans, Marshawn Lynch, and Fred Jackson. So the question is, is Shanahan looking for meaning, or is he more interested in seeing a hot body naked?
KANSAS SHITTY CHIEFS (+10) cover Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers and big spreads, on the road, what do you know about it? It's the one sure fire bet I can take every week.
My homeboy Jerry Pie would tell you Polamalu is falling victim to the "Madden Curse." But that doesn't explain Larry Fitzgerald's lack of injury (jynx!). So naturally, it's clearly the Head and Shoulders commercials that are obviously weakening Hair Polamalu's knees.
The bigger problems really are that, thhat Hair-four defense needs to step up.
The Hair-fensive line can't protect the quarterback.
And most importantly, the super bowl Hair-v-p, hair-tonio Holmes can't find the endzone.
BALTIMORE RAVENS (+1) over Indianapolis Colts
B-more, I'm begging you. Beat these chumps from Indianapolis. Watch this game and tell me how many times they show head coach Jim Caldwell moving his mouth, or any part of his face for that matter. You're expecting me to believe this guy is coaching the team? I refuse to believe Peyton Manning can coach and quarterback a team to the Super Bowl.... I REFUSE IT!
NEW YORK GIANTS (-6.5) over Atlanta Falcons
The laws of the NFC East will not allow the Cowboys or Eagles to pull away with the division. Therefore... Giants win.
San Francisco 49ers (+6.5) cover GREEN BAY PACKERS
Patrick Willis is the new best Middle Linebacker in the league. If you don't believe me. Just look at him. Reminiscent of the Predator that takes on Arnold Schwarzenegger, a challenge not easily taken, and almost beats him, instead resorting to the tactical nuke after death. (still doesn't kill Awnold)
MINNESOTA VIKINGS (-10.5) over Seattle Seahawks
Oh great, Brett Farve is looking to come back for another year. Brad Childress opened the mummy's tomb hence resurrecting a vengeful, ancient, quarterback and releasing an unstoppable curse upon the earth. Someone call Brenden Frazier.
Washington Redskins against the DALLAS COWBOYS (-11)
Never bet on a Cowboys-Redskins game. Never. The only thing more embarrassing than my overall picks record, is my overall record picking my favorite team the Dallas Cowboys. I don't know if I'm blinded by my love of the franchise, or Tony Romo and the rest of the Cowboys are simply too unpredictable, but I can't figure them out at all.
Therefore, and for the sake of my pride and laws of jynxing, I am abstaining from picking any 'Boys games for the rest of the season. I have been treated so unpredictably by my team, that I can't put any kind of emotional weight on any game because it just makes the highs and lows too much to bear. It's suffice to say that from now on, Cowboy fan should not expect anything. If we win we win, if we lose we lose. Until there is an appearance in another Super Bowl, any expectations placed on this team will only lead to a broken heart, and most likely mental institution. Go Cowboys.
New Orleans Saints (-11) over TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Drew Brees and the Saints are due for a blowout.
Arizona Cardinals (-9) over ST LOUIS RAMS
Start respecting the Cardinals.
New England Patriots (-10.5) over NEW YORK JETS
Did you know Bill Belichik went for it on 4th and 2 from inside his own 30 yard line? Brett Favre thinks this amount of coverage is ridiculous. (not once have I spelled that word correctly the first time)
Tack on Rex Ryan to the list of people I wish would catch the 3:10 to Yuma in the face. If your keeping track the list so far is 1. Lebron James 2. Glen Davis 3. Rex Ryan. This guy's act is officially weaker than the flavor of Vitamin Water. (South Park shout out)
First we had the shit talking which was mildly humorous to a certain extent when he was backing it up with wins. Now, the Jets are 4-5 and instead of making being able to motivate his team and pulling them together, he's turned into a blubbering, fat, beached whale. Is it coincidence that two out of my oncoming train list are now known nationally to have cried in front of other grown men without winning a championship? It absolutely is not. Is it coincidence that two out of the three are overweight? It absolutely is not. Is it coincidence that all three carry themselves with a undeserved sense of accomplishment? It absolutely is not.
JOAKLAND RAIDERS (+9.5) cover Cincinnati Bengals
What do you think the final straw was for benching Jamarcus Russel. Really? It took ten weeks to figure out Jamarcus Russel couldn't even see time at the University of Colorado? This reminds me of this press conference of Al Davis firing Lane Kiffin. Is this the greatest press conference of all time? I'm not sure. It's certainly an epic. We are talking a bonafide five act Shakespearean tragedy including a letter presumably written on the john five minutes before Al went on camera. (minute 7:20)
Oh, so that's why Jamarcus Russel was starting. Nothing exemplifies the state of a once great football organization like this video clip. It's absolutely beautiful. Really nothing short of poetry. It's hard to hate the Raiders when the "rainman" is running the team.
By the way, no one can see the letter Al... people are just trying to get the hell out of there. People get volunteer hours for listening to old people ramble at nursing homes all the time. Focus that 1986 projector for God's sake. Oh yeah, and nice desk lamp...who said senior citizens can't hang with the young folk.
Philadelphia Eagles (-3) over CHICAGO BEARS
Best Onion headline of all time: "Lovie Smith becomes first African-American coach to lose the Super Bowl"
Just run the damn ball in the redzone.
Tennessee Titans (+4.5) over HOUSTON TEXANS
I just can't ever bet against a team with Chris Johnson on it. No matter how far behind the Titans get, they are one to three draw plays away from tying or winning the game. I'm not completely sure you can even say that about Adrian Peterson. I'm just psyched about my new favorite runningback.
San Diego Chargers (-2.5) over DENVER BRONCOS
Whoops! Becca thanks for keeping me honest, I can't believe I missed this one... but you had to know who I was picking....
How badass is Josh McDaniels' fist pump around Invesco Field at Mile High now? Look I don't want to say I told you so.... but damnit I told you so. Just call me Nostradamus coming out of the Broncos bye week. The Broncos have returned to their talent level. The funniest thing about the Broncos 6-0 start was their "revamped defense." Whenever one of my Bronco fan friends gave me this gem, my response was always the same. "Really? name your starting defensive line and linebackers." Instantaneously the look of cockiness and glee was wiped from their face as they tried to name someone beside Elvis Dumervil and DJ Williams.
"Exactly" I would pompously reply.
The Broncos are a team of no names. Elvis Dumervil was averaging almost 2 sacks a game before the bye week.... he has about two in the last 3 games.
Yes, I underestimated the "everyone is against us" attitude the Donkeys were playing with in the beginning of the season. But the true test of good teams is how they can handle adversity. The Broncos D was supposedly the strength of the team. Bronco fan thought, well... even if teams figure out that all they have to do is sit on 15 yard slant and hook routes, at least our defense can step up and keep them in it. The problem is, the Broncos defense is remembering that it's the Broncos defense.
Maybe you have an excuse that the Broncs couldn't move the ball against the horrid Washington Redskins because the starting quarterback was out, you have no excuse for letting Jason Campbell and LeDell Betts to drive the ball up your untalented asses.
Uh oh!
"how we makin' money on the 'Buffs this week" pick: Buffs (+17.5)
"how we makin' money on the 'Buffs this week" record: 3-2
Special note on the Buffs. As we all patiently await another nationally televised beat down of our football program it's important to maintain some rooting interest in the University of Colorado athletic program. Screw football, I'm not talking about rooting for Tyler Hansen to keep it within 17.5 points, I'm talkin about CU basketball. The buffs are out to their first 3-0 start since 2001-2002... the year after that they went to the tournament. The Buffs actually have athletes. Gatorade's Mr. Basketball in the state of Missouri Alec Burks (yes he's black) plays for the buffs and is averaging near 20 points a game. Not to mention there is free stuff at every home game. The Buffs play Gonzaga at 1pm on ESPN2 in the Maui Invitational. Go Buffs.
Comments, Criticisms, and Creole.
No comments or criticisms... so here's some creole! toot that horn Satchmo.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Monday, November 2, 2009
Selling Our Soul
Forever young. Undersized. Overhyped. Irrelevant.
Are these the modifiers I'm using to describe the University of Colorado's football program? Yes and no.
The football team is just the most public, tangible, representation of an athletic program-wide schmuck show. What's the only thing worse than University football? University basketball. University can't even buy a Ceal Barry. (took me five minutes to look up how to spell that)
With this kind of system-wide failure, no one should be spared criticism, or at very least a watchful eye. This problem may very well start at the very top. A someone who generates money, notoriety, and tradition to the University of Colorado.
Ralphie V. I'm lookin' at you.
1966-1978: "The Legend"
The father of a University freshman, generous John Lowery, donated a six month old buffalo calf from Sedgewick, Colorado. This young buffalo calf, at the time unaware of the tradition and history that she would bestow on a University (nor the body structure she would provide to this essay), was affectionately named "Raalph," after the sound the handlers made after they ran her. Look it up.
Shortly after Raalph began representing the University, it was discovered that she, was actually a she. Naturally the feminine modification of the human bodily function was applied. And Ralphie was born.
Notoriously wild, the handlers had to take her on morning runs roughly lasting two hours before gametime so she would remain calm. At the conclusion of such a run, the University's student section would erupt in the "Buffalo Stomp." The "Buffalo Stomp" has since been banned and nearly erased from the annals of time, but according to legend, was such an explosive force it caused physical damage to the stadium.
Head Coach Eddie Crowder was approached about the possibility of running Ralphie on the field before the homecoming game of 1967. Delighted by the idea, Ralphie ran in the University of Colorado-Oklahoma State game. (A 10-7 loss) The institution of the Ralphie Run has been a Colorado tradition ever since.
Along with gaining Boulder fame, Ralphie would capture the nation at the turn of the decade. In 1970, the world hung to every word on radio, TV, and newspapers regarding Ralphie's kidnapping by Air Force Academy cadets. The full extent of the horrors and rumored zoophilia forced upon Ralphie have never been released by the US government. Officials have since not been available for comment, and when contacted by FreeLance Word responded, "What buffalo?"
Alas this victim was not without controversy. In the subsequent year of her kidnapping, Ralphie was again thrust into the national spotlight with her 1971 election as Homecoming Queen, thus achieving the highest cross-species title since Caligula named his horse Incitatus to the Roman Senate.
Ralphie became ill and retired in 1978. Her name is immortal. Between military intrigue and fighting to break the cross-species glass cieling, Ralphie attended every home football game for 13 years. Her history would see 85 wins to 49 losses, including one Big Eight championship, and the beginning of a tradition.
1978-1987: "Moonshine"
It's hard to follow the legend, especially when someone changes your name. Nicknamed "Moon" which was short for Moonshine, a type of home-distilled alcohol, the buffalo did not experience the same winning flavor of football as her predecessor. (40-71) Yet, she carried on the torch in a different way. One could make the argument that Moon instilled an alcoholic undertone to the University that has since remained with it, and always will.
Flawed by her widely speculated battle with alcoholism, she was tragically found in a Fraternity closet deceased and covered in racial, gender, and homophobic slurs in Sharpie marker following a 37-17 CU win over Stanford. The notorious partier brought the University into the famed era of "top-20 party school" rankings, and set up for the next decade of Colorado greatness.
1987-1997: "The Institution"
The unexpected yet anticipated death of Moon forced Ralphie III into action much earlier than expected. Already being groomed as the prototype Ralphie, and after only five weeks of training, the "prototype Ralphie" originally named "Tequila," made her debut in a 27-10 vic over Mizzou. One would be hard pressed to find a better pound for pound Ralphie. If Ralphie I was the trailblazing winner, and Ralphie II was the party, Ralphie III was the best of both worlds. Maintaining the rich alcoholic tradition, Ralphie was witness for 73 games in her tenure, including eight bowl games, the rise of the University of Colorado as a "party powerhouse," and a National Championship. The Buffs went 98-29 during Tequila's reign as Ralphie.
Leading the golden age of Buffalo football, Ralphie III once ripped free from her handlers at the '93 Fiesta Bowl roaming free for a time and rallying the charge. The most successful Ralphie in school history would pass in early 1998, and was forever remembered in State government. Shortly after her death, Colorado State Sentate passed State Resolution 98-10 which reads as follows:
The institution of Ralphie in state law.
1998-2007 : "Kinda like Lance Armstrong"
The legend of Ralphie IV would begin shortly after "Rowdy's" birth. Born on media titan Ted Turner's "Flying D Ranch," (that's what she said?) she was separated from her mother at one month old. Unfortunately for Rowdy, neither her mother nor the ranch hands were the first to find her. Wandering aimlessly around the Flying D, calling her mother's name in the night, a dark figure appeared in the moonlight. Soon thereafter, Rowdy was found in the jaws of a coyote. Clinging and fighting to life, Rowdy was rushed to The Flying V medical center. Surviving the attack, Rowdy remained in a near vegetative state being bottle fed for much of her young life.
Fortunately for the University, Rowdy is a fighter, a survivor. At 1,300 lbs and capable of reaching speeds of 25 miles per hour, she became one of the biggest and fastest Ralphies ever to live.
Ralphie IV's "livestrong" victims of predatory carnivores awareness campaign (lawsuit still pending) generated income for the advancement and protection of future Ralphies. In November of 2002, Violet Stramburg, a 96 year old lifelong University football fan, donated her life savings of $40,730 to Ralphie, thereby insuring protection and care for all future buffaloes that would carry the name Ralphie, and screwing her living family out of those new matching Hyundai's they've been looking at.
Known for being temperamental, Ralphie IV took her last run on November 23, 2007 in the 65-51 win over Nebraska. The Buffs have not flirted with .500 or beaten Nebraska since.
The fightin' Rowdy Ralphie IV would retire with a Buffalo record of 70-60. Having the shortest tenure as Ralphie, it has been rumored Rowdy became unhappy with the direction the program was going, and was hence asked to resign. Currently living in Hendersen, Colorado, Rowdy still has yet to be reached for an opinion.
2007-present: "The Buffs suck"
Born in October 2006, Ralphie V, nicknamed "blackout," made her debut in 2008. Allegedly faster than previous Ralphie, she is in all reality undersized. Ralphie is listed at 450 lbs, and if you've see her in person, 450 lbs soaking wet and wearing lead shoes. At 3 years old, Ralphie V is still smaller than her predecessors and handlers will off-handedly admit she may not grow as big as they originally thought.
Isn't this where the University of Colorado's football program is at right now? We can't even get a big time Ralphie in the program.
What do we learn from each of the Ralphies? They all had a little personality that made them fit with the culture at CU. Ralphie I started a tradition. Ralphie II instilled alcohol into the culture. Ralphie III is just a winner. Ralphie IV was pissed off. Ralphie V is the representation of the University selling out.
In all seriousness Ralphie isn't the reason the University's revenue bearing athletics are in the dumper. Rather it's just a representation of why they are in the dumper.
University of Colorado Administration has been attempting to change the culture at CU for the last decade. After consistently being regarded as a party school, a couple of student-alcohol related deaths, and a sex scandal, it is no secret the University has sought to crack down. The Greek System is no longer acknowledged by the University (though are still subject to discipline somehow), Boulder PD loves giving MIP's almost more than parking tickets, and the Athletic Director brought in a "good guy" to put a good face on the athletic program.
The problem with this, is the attempt to change the culture and tradition that makes CU, CU. The problem with CU and Ralphie V, is that they have no personality anymore.
It's hard to take the sex out of Boulder when the people that live there are notoriously sexy. It's hard to take the party out of Boulder with a place as unique in its atmosphere as the Hill. It's hard for people to not smoke weed and go to class when it's a 65 degree cloudless day and one can gaze at the snow sprinkled flatirons.
It's time for Colorado administration to just embrace this already. Colorado is what it is. A place mainly upper-class kids attend to get an education as good as pretty much anywhere, but mainly to have a great time. The same things that attract the average English major, used to attract the big time Tailback or Defensive End. Dan Hawkins just doesn't fit.
Colorado students fundamentally don't care about the life philosophies, responsibility, and the family life. Colorado students are out to have a good time, and a good time isn't watching a bunch of "good eggs" getting the snot beat out of them by legitimate athletic programs, a good time is watching their team win. The football team's graduation rate is achieving the highest it has ever been, and its win rate is achieving the lowest it has ever been.
So here we are, watching the undersized, tamer, and more manageable Ralphie run across the football field leading a team of undersized, tamer, and more manageable athletes.
I shouldn't be able to have a puncher's chance of beating our starting quarterback and best receiver in a fight. But i do. I don't want players that are "great for the community," I want wins.
The Hawkins family just doesn't fit in here. Maybe the good guy attitude works when you're recruiting the Mormons at Boise State, it doesn't work when you're recruiting against Mac Brown, Bob Stoops, Bo Pelini, Mike Gundy, etc. etc. etc. in the Big XII. Dan Hawkins can't sell the University outside of a beautiful hike in Chautaqua Park. Cody Hawkins can't treat a recruit to a good time with a full solo cup of milk in his noodle arm.
Three out of the Five Ralphies are named in relation to alcohol. Now, CU has lost it's originality, resorting to stealing "blackout" from the Penn State "whiteout." Instead of chalking up alcohol related deaths to Darwinism, CU takes the responsibility. Instead of selling what makes CU different than any other school, CU sells the statistics that make it the same as every other school. Instead of recruiting real athletes, CU recruits a happy face.
Dan Hawkins can't win any games without Gary Barnett's players.
Anyone in any kind of relationship will tell you they were first attracted to their other by the looks, but stuck around for the personality. CU is losing theirs. No one represents the soul of the University of Colorado like the mighty buffalo Ralphie that runs across the field every gameday, and no one is trying to steal her, or elect her class president.
Piety is not CU. Sobriety is not CU. Dan Hawkins is not CU. The sooner everyone realizes it, and administration stops trying to sell the soul of the University, the sooner the University will be back in a national conversation. Go Buffs.
And then Darrell Scott left.
We all had to see this coming. It's time for the student's to take a bit of a stand here. Do not show support for this joke of an athletic program. Do not go to the games. Find something better to do.
Are these the modifiers I'm using to describe the University of Colorado's football program? Yes and no.
The football team is just the most public, tangible, representation of an athletic program-wide schmuck show. What's the only thing worse than University football? University basketball. University can't even buy a Ceal Barry. (took me five minutes to look up how to spell that)
With this kind of system-wide failure, no one should be spared criticism, or at very least a watchful eye. This problem may very well start at the very top. A someone who generates money, notoriety, and tradition to the University of Colorado.
Ralphie V. I'm lookin' at you.
1966-1978: "The Legend"
The father of a University freshman, generous John Lowery, donated a six month old buffalo calf from Sedgewick, Colorado. This young buffalo calf, at the time unaware of the tradition and history that she would bestow on a University (nor the body structure she would provide to this essay), was affectionately named "Raalph," after the sound the handlers made after they ran her. Look it up.
Shortly after Raalph began representing the University, it was discovered that she, was actually a she. Naturally the feminine modification of the human bodily function was applied. And Ralphie was born.
Notoriously wild, the handlers had to take her on morning runs roughly lasting two hours before gametime so she would remain calm. At the conclusion of such a run, the University's student section would erupt in the "Buffalo Stomp." The "Buffalo Stomp" has since been banned and nearly erased from the annals of time, but according to legend, was such an explosive force it caused physical damage to the stadium.
Head Coach Eddie Crowder was approached about the possibility of running Ralphie on the field before the homecoming game of 1967. Delighted by the idea, Ralphie ran in the University of Colorado-Oklahoma State game. (A 10-7 loss) The institution of the Ralphie Run has been a Colorado tradition ever since.
Along with gaining Boulder fame, Ralphie would capture the nation at the turn of the decade. In 1970, the world hung to every word on radio, TV, and newspapers regarding Ralphie's kidnapping by Air Force Academy cadets. The full extent of the horrors and rumored zoophilia forced upon Ralphie have never been released by the US government. Officials have since not been available for comment, and when contacted by FreeLance Word responded, "What buffalo?"
Alas this victim was not without controversy. In the subsequent year of her kidnapping, Ralphie was again thrust into the national spotlight with her 1971 election as Homecoming Queen, thus achieving the highest cross-species title since Caligula named his horse Incitatus to the Roman Senate.
Ralphie became ill and retired in 1978. Her name is immortal. Between military intrigue and fighting to break the cross-species glass cieling, Ralphie attended every home football game for 13 years. Her history would see 85 wins to 49 losses, including one Big Eight championship, and the beginning of a tradition.
1978-1987: "Moonshine"
It's hard to follow the legend, especially when someone changes your name. Nicknamed "Moon" which was short for Moonshine, a type of home-distilled alcohol, the buffalo did not experience the same winning flavor of football as her predecessor. (40-71) Yet, she carried on the torch in a different way. One could make the argument that Moon instilled an alcoholic undertone to the University that has since remained with it, and always will.
Flawed by her widely speculated battle with alcoholism, she was tragically found in a Fraternity closet deceased and covered in racial, gender, and homophobic slurs in Sharpie marker following a 37-17 CU win over Stanford. The notorious partier brought the University into the famed era of "top-20 party school" rankings, and set up for the next decade of Colorado greatness.
1987-1997: "The Institution"
The unexpected yet anticipated death of Moon forced Ralphie III into action much earlier than expected. Already being groomed as the prototype Ralphie, and after only five weeks of training, the "prototype Ralphie" originally named "Tequila," made her debut in a 27-10 vic over Mizzou. One would be hard pressed to find a better pound for pound Ralphie. If Ralphie I was the trailblazing winner, and Ralphie II was the party, Ralphie III was the best of both worlds. Maintaining the rich alcoholic tradition, Ralphie was witness for 73 games in her tenure, including eight bowl games, the rise of the University of Colorado as a "party powerhouse," and a National Championship. The Buffs went 98-29 during Tequila's reign as Ralphie.
Leading the golden age of Buffalo football, Ralphie III once ripped free from her handlers at the '93 Fiesta Bowl roaming free for a time and rallying the charge. The most successful Ralphie in school history would pass in early 1998, and was forever remembered in State government. Shortly after her death, Colorado State Sentate passed State Resolution 98-10 which reads as follows:
WHEREAS, Ralphie III, the University of Colorado bison who for 12 years rumbled across Folsom Field to the cheers of thousands, has died; and
WHEREAS, Because of her advanced age, 13 year old Ralphie III was scheduled to retire after the upcoming football season, but instead the half-ton bison died of natural causes recently at her home in Hudson, Colorado; and
WHEREAS, Ralphie III led the CU Buffaloes football team onto the field in 73 games at the start of both halves, including 62 times at Folsom Field in Boulder, 8 bowl games at locations throughout the country, and 3 games in Fort Collins; and
WHEREAS, Ralphie III traveled to Anaheim, California in 1990 for the Pigskin Classic, but Anaheim Stadium authorities would not let her run on the field, the only disappointing experience in her otherwise illustrious career; and
WHEREAS, While Ralphie III will be sadly missed, the legacy of the running of the bison will be carried on with the donation of Ralphie IV; now, therefore,
Be It Resolved by the Senate of the Sixty-first General Assembly of the State of Colorado:
That the University of Colorado and fans alike have lost a most beloved mascot and are saddened by the occasion of Ralphie III's death.
Be It Further Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be sent to the University of Colorado's athletic department, President John Buechner, each member of the board of Regents of the University of Colorado, John Parker, the ranch owner who cared for Ralphie III, and the 14 University of Colorado students who are the bison handlers.
—CO SR 98-10WHEREAS, Because of her advanced age, 13 year old Ralphie III was scheduled to retire after the upcoming football season, but instead the half-ton bison died of natural causes recently at her home in Hudson, Colorado; and
WHEREAS, Ralphie III led the CU Buffaloes football team onto the field in 73 games at the start of both halves, including 62 times at Folsom Field in Boulder, 8 bowl games at locations throughout the country, and 3 games in Fort Collins; and
WHEREAS, Ralphie III traveled to Anaheim, California in 1990 for the Pigskin Classic, but Anaheim Stadium authorities would not let her run on the field, the only disappointing experience in her otherwise illustrious career; and
WHEREAS, While Ralphie III will be sadly missed, the legacy of the running of the bison will be carried on with the donation of Ralphie IV; now, therefore,
Be It Resolved by the Senate of the Sixty-first General Assembly of the State of Colorado:
That the University of Colorado and fans alike have lost a most beloved mascot and are saddened by the occasion of Ralphie III's death.
Be It Further Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be sent to the University of Colorado's athletic department, President John Buechner, each member of the board of Regents of the University of Colorado, John Parker, the ranch owner who cared for Ralphie III, and the 14 University of Colorado students who are the bison handlers.
The institution of Ralphie in state law.
1998-2007 : "Kinda like Lance Armstrong"
The legend of Ralphie IV would begin shortly after "Rowdy's" birth. Born on media titan Ted Turner's "Flying D Ranch," (that's what she said?) she was separated from her mother at one month old. Unfortunately for Rowdy, neither her mother nor the ranch hands were the first to find her. Wandering aimlessly around the Flying D, calling her mother's name in the night, a dark figure appeared in the moonlight. Soon thereafter, Rowdy was found in the jaws of a coyote. Clinging and fighting to life, Rowdy was rushed to The Flying V medical center. Surviving the attack, Rowdy remained in a near vegetative state being bottle fed for much of her young life.
Fortunately for the University, Rowdy is a fighter, a survivor. At 1,300 lbs and capable of reaching speeds of 25 miles per hour, she became one of the biggest and fastest Ralphies ever to live.
Ralphie IV's "livestrong" victims of predatory carnivores awareness campaign (lawsuit still pending) generated income for the advancement and protection of future Ralphies. In November of 2002, Violet Stramburg, a 96 year old lifelong University football fan, donated her life savings of $40,730 to Ralphie, thereby insuring protection and care for all future buffaloes that would carry the name Ralphie, and screwing her living family out of those new matching Hyundai's they've been looking at.
Known for being temperamental, Ralphie IV took her last run on November 23, 2007 in the 65-51 win over Nebraska. The Buffs have not flirted with .500 or beaten Nebraska since.
The fightin' Rowdy Ralphie IV would retire with a Buffalo record of 70-60. Having the shortest tenure as Ralphie, it has been rumored Rowdy became unhappy with the direction the program was going, and was hence asked to resign. Currently living in Hendersen, Colorado, Rowdy still has yet to be reached for an opinion.
2007-present: "The Buffs suck"
Born in October 2006, Ralphie V, nicknamed "blackout," made her debut in 2008. Allegedly faster than previous Ralphie, she is in all reality undersized. Ralphie is listed at 450 lbs, and if you've see her in person, 450 lbs soaking wet and wearing lead shoes. At 3 years old, Ralphie V is still smaller than her predecessors and handlers will off-handedly admit she may not grow as big as they originally thought.
Isn't this where the University of Colorado's football program is at right now? We can't even get a big time Ralphie in the program.
What do we learn from each of the Ralphies? They all had a little personality that made them fit with the culture at CU. Ralphie I started a tradition. Ralphie II instilled alcohol into the culture. Ralphie III is just a winner. Ralphie IV was pissed off. Ralphie V is the representation of the University selling out.
In all seriousness Ralphie isn't the reason the University's revenue bearing athletics are in the dumper. Rather it's just a representation of why they are in the dumper.
University of Colorado Administration has been attempting to change the culture at CU for the last decade. After consistently being regarded as a party school, a couple of student-alcohol related deaths, and a sex scandal, it is no secret the University has sought to crack down. The Greek System is no longer acknowledged by the University (though are still subject to discipline somehow), Boulder PD loves giving MIP's almost more than parking tickets, and the Athletic Director brought in a "good guy" to put a good face on the athletic program.
The problem with this, is the attempt to change the culture and tradition that makes CU, CU. The problem with CU and Ralphie V, is that they have no personality anymore.
It's hard to take the sex out of Boulder when the people that live there are notoriously sexy. It's hard to take the party out of Boulder with a place as unique in its atmosphere as the Hill. It's hard for people to not smoke weed and go to class when it's a 65 degree cloudless day and one can gaze at the snow sprinkled flatirons.
It's time for Colorado administration to just embrace this already. Colorado is what it is. A place mainly upper-class kids attend to get an education as good as pretty much anywhere, but mainly to have a great time. The same things that attract the average English major, used to attract the big time Tailback or Defensive End. Dan Hawkins just doesn't fit.
Colorado students fundamentally don't care about the life philosophies, responsibility, and the family life. Colorado students are out to have a good time, and a good time isn't watching a bunch of "good eggs" getting the snot beat out of them by legitimate athletic programs, a good time is watching their team win. The football team's graduation rate is achieving the highest it has ever been, and its win rate is achieving the lowest it has ever been.
So here we are, watching the undersized, tamer, and more manageable Ralphie run across the football field leading a team of undersized, tamer, and more manageable athletes.
I shouldn't be able to have a puncher's chance of beating our starting quarterback and best receiver in a fight. But i do. I don't want players that are "great for the community," I want wins.
The Hawkins family just doesn't fit in here. Maybe the good guy attitude works when you're recruiting the Mormons at Boise State, it doesn't work when you're recruiting against Mac Brown, Bob Stoops, Bo Pelini, Mike Gundy, etc. etc. etc. in the Big XII. Dan Hawkins can't sell the University outside of a beautiful hike in Chautaqua Park. Cody Hawkins can't treat a recruit to a good time with a full solo cup of milk in his noodle arm.
Three out of the Five Ralphies are named in relation to alcohol. Now, CU has lost it's originality, resorting to stealing "blackout" from the Penn State "whiteout." Instead of chalking up alcohol related deaths to Darwinism, CU takes the responsibility. Instead of selling what makes CU different than any other school, CU sells the statistics that make it the same as every other school. Instead of recruiting real athletes, CU recruits a happy face.
Dan Hawkins can't win any games without Gary Barnett's players.
Anyone in any kind of relationship will tell you they were first attracted to their other by the looks, but stuck around for the personality. CU is losing theirs. No one represents the soul of the University of Colorado like the mighty buffalo Ralphie that runs across the field every gameday, and no one is trying to steal her, or elect her class president.
Piety is not CU. Sobriety is not CU. Dan Hawkins is not CU. The sooner everyone realizes it, and administration stops trying to sell the soul of the University, the sooner the University will be back in a national conversation. Go Buffs.
And then Darrell Scott left.
We all had to see this coming. It's time for the student's to take a bit of a stand here. Do not show support for this joke of an athletic program. Do not go to the games. Find something better to do.
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