An Asterisk Without Tiger Woods?

Really? There are people who believe that the winner of the British Open should have an asterisk? That is absolutely absurd. Seriously. Let’s get real here. These professional golfers are all so much better than most of us will ever be. They have to be! Trust me, if they’re on tour, they’re excellent. Putting an asterisk next to any win they have is a slap in the face. They’ve prepared. They’ve spent hours practicing and being coached. You’re telling me that the only reason the winner of this event wins is because Tiger Woods isn’t playing? I say you’re grossly underestimating these gentlemen. Simply because he is the number one golfer in the world does not make his presence an automatic win (see New England Patriots story for assuming the win). Do the players who win events with his entry need an asterisk that says they deserve greater recognition because they beat Tiger? Of course not!

Every sport has dominant figures. Think about it. If you give golfers an asterisk for this, you need to give one to the New York Giants. How about one for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays? They’ve managed to stay atop a division that has both the Yankees and the Red Sox. Sounds ridiculous doesn’t it?

Don’t misunderstand me. I’m definitely a Tiger Woods fan. His mere presence has done so much for the sport of golf. He is an exceptional athlete and a remarkable competitor. He is getting rewarded quite handsomely for his achievements as well. The latest issue of Golf World has a clip that estimates he’ll be worth one BILLION by 2011. He’s worked hard for it and is now reaping the benefits.

However, the winner of any majors in his absence does not deserve some artificial asterisk. They deserve to be called the winner, plain and simple.

Wild World of Wednesday – March 5, 2008

The first Wednesday in March and already a fun bunch of sports news even though the NCAA madness hasn’t even begun!

Fresh off of their Carling Cup win, the Tottenham Hotspur have caused quite a ruckus for playing badly and partying a bit much. Manchester United defeated Lyon 1-0 in their 10th straight home win. Cristiano Ronaldo’s game-winning goal was his 30th of the season. Arsenal still remain atop the Premier League in points although many think Man U will easily pass them since they're only one behind as of today.

NFL fans can relax, Randy Moss resigned with the New England Patriots in spite of rumors that he could end up with Dante Culpepper in Tampa Bay or with Brett Favre in Green Bay (although Culpepper has not gone to the Bucs yet). Speaking of Favre, the entire city of Green Bay (and perhaps the whole state of Wisconsin) is in mourning now that the 17-year veteran has announced his retirement. Interestingly enough, it wasn’t too long ago they were all very upset with his performances and whispered he should be traded away. Now that he is really gone, the mayor of the city nearly broke down in tears when interviewed on ESPN radio.

The Los Angeles Lakers are still red-hot in the NBA. Kobe Bryant scored 52 points in an overtime win against the Dallas Mavericks.

Kelly Slater won the Quiksilver Pro title in Australia over the weekend, beating out local favorite Mick Fanning. Not bad for a guy that's pushing 40! I've heard that age and treachery will always overcome youth and skill, although Slater is as skilled as any newbie half his age if not more!

NFL Free Agency 2008

With the NFL Combine behind us, the focus is now on the free agents!

Randy Moss is certainly at the top of many coaches’ wish list. Don’t hold your breath though, the New England Patriots will surely keep him…you would think…

Michael Turner, currently with the San Diego Chargers would be an excellent pick up at running back. Rumor has it that the New York Jets are considering the possibilities.

New England Patriots corner Asante Samuel will also be on the bidding block after five years with the team.

Dallas Cowboys running back Marion Barber will likely be resigned with the team.

Rumor has it that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are looking at QB Daunte Culpepper. Last year’s starter, Jeff Garcia, is pushing 37 and that is a bit seasoned for the QB position.

Oh, and let's not forget that Zach Thomas has been touring the Home for Old Defensive Players aka the New England Patriots.

The next few days will tell the tale…