tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-297643832012-01-29T04:32:24.094-05:00Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.comBlogger14631100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-70285424451977104762012-01-28T21:55:00.003-05:002012-01-28T21:59:03.487-05:00

My column: http://bit.ly/Ar2CNo

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-73820483274479213252012-01-28T17:23:00.004-05:002012-01-28T17:32:06.692-05:00

My column: http://bit.ly/w1Q58m

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-43040417450813614272012-01-28T17:15:00.003-05:002012-01-28T17:20:45.406-05:00

My column: http://bit.ly/x1bPAM

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-27451587671222904802012-01-25T11:46:00.006-05:002012-01-25T12:24:59.528-05:00

Last summer, unexpectedly, and long before the Tigers took control of the American League Central race, they extended the contract of team president and general manager Dave Dombrowski for five years, but manager Jim Leyland for only one.At the time, I didn't think it was a good move, at least with Leyland, that he was at a point where he had to deliver the goods by winning the division title,

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-48451631970160109622012-01-25T00:49:00.001-05:002012-01-25T00:52:45.908-05:00

My column: http://bit.ly/Aya2B5

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-15693276880733112562012-01-24T14:26:00.001-05:002012-01-24T14:28:24.009-05:00

The Red Wings have surged lately, winning seven games in a row and vaulting into the top spot in the Western Conference. Goalie Jimmy Howard has been spectacular. He deserves his place in the All-Star game, may very well be the first-team All-Star goalie at the end of the season and win the Veznia Trophy. He leads the NHL in wins and has improved his numbers remarkably in most major

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-56194724236506837942012-01-24T12:28:00.001-05:002012-01-24T12:40:42.498-05:00

My column: http://bit.ly/zCJltB

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-27224386499288907972012-01-23T11:11:00.009-05:002012-01-23T15:22:39.802-05:00

I was critical of the Tigers when they signed Johnny Damon before the start of the 2010 season. Earlier that off season, they had unloaded Curtis Granderson and Placido Polanco to save money. Then, at the last minute, here comes Johnny Damon for a year and $8 million, seemingly because his boot-licking about loving Greektown and Steve Yzerman worked, and because, from what I was told, owner Mike

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-49201150699324659822012-01-22T16:35:00.005-05:002012-01-22T16:57:54.811-05:00

Even with his greatness as a football coach, and all the good his life otherwise entailed, it's impossible to move past the part about Joe Paterno that became one of the epicenters of the Jerry Sandusky scandal.It involved children abused. Paterno was one of the checkpoints - perhaps the most important along the way - that could have prevented it. He didn't do nearly enough.However, those who are

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-65853347160089530582012-01-21T23:32:00.004-05:002012-01-22T19:14:13.323-05:00

My column: http://bit.ly/wXkpDL

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-21970561111544804922012-01-21T17:23:00.002-05:002012-01-21T17:28:55.248-05:00

My column: http://bit.ly/xnT9GW

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-39341222486364880522012-01-20T12:01:00.006-05:002012-01-20T12:58:23.381-05:00

Twitter is a great invention. For a member of the media, it's a terrific outlet to have conversations with readers or listeners. I truly enjoy that aspect of Twitter.It's short, sweet and to the point. It's a great place to post links., and retweet profound or humorous comments.Following the news cycle incredibly fast and simple on Twitter. And access is easy and non-stop.There are some gnarly

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-28318497156705092142012-01-19T12:55:00.004-05:002012-01-19T13:15:13.556-05:00

Joe Saunders got one-year and $6 million to re-sign, essentially with his tail between his legs, with the Arizona Diamondbacks.Should the Tigers, who need a fifth starter, taken a run at Saunders under the circumstances?He was 12-13 last season with a 3.69 ERA. With the exception of one brilliant season in 2008 when he was with the Angels, Saunders has given up a lot more hits than innings

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-21372844995372100062012-01-19T12:37:00.003-05:002012-01-19T12:44:54.109-05:00

My column: http: http://bit.ly/y7LmzQ

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-49610438320505744342012-01-18T01:56:00.002-05:002012-01-18T02:10:25.265-05:00

My column and video report from Ann Arbor: http://bit.ly/zgcyDx

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-8213911438097422972012-01-17T19:12:00.004-05:002012-01-17T19:44:16.025-05:00

Michigan outplayed MSU for much of the first half, but missed too many easy shots inside. The issue is far from decided. If a couple bunnies had dropped, the Wolverines would be very much in control.- One of the best things about Trey Burke is he doesn't feel the need to force the action. He plays to the pace of the game. He has savvy far beyond that of even the most mature freshmen. He picked

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-42214179066931847022012-01-17T18:09:00.005-05:002012-01-17T19:08:36.965-05:00

Honestly, I didn't think the Tigers would benefit much from signing Yoenis Cespedes. I didn't see the need to replace Delmon Young in left field, despite a groundswell of cries from some media and fans about his low on-base percentage.But Young would fit in better at DH than left field where he struggles with the glove. Cespedes has the tools to be an above-average defender, regardless of the

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-4719281681903885572012-01-17T12:56:00.004-05:002012-01-17T13:29:04.801-05:00

It should be the most intriguing matchup between the schools in a number of years. The first couple editions of the Wolverines under John Beilein seemed intimidated by the Spartans. Last season changed that. The Spartans just weren't as tough as they normally are, physically or in regard to competitive character. They have reverted back to usual form this season. The Spartans have presented much

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-47493456278168615502012-01-16T00:09:00.003-05:002012-01-16T00:17:00.587-05:00

My column: http://bit.ly/xbLYQT

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-73166837689779273262012-01-15T17:55:00.011-05:002012-01-15T18:15:01.297-05:00

I know the Rangers remain formidable, and the Angels have certainly upgraded, but I thought the Tigers chances of winning the pennant were the best of any American League team. I'm not so sure anymore because the Yankees acquired Michael Pineda from Seattle. I know Pineda struggled the second half of last season, and the Yankees gave up excellent prospects in Jesus Montero and Hector Noesi in the

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-27721543923986475682012-01-14T16:36:00.003-05:002012-01-14T16:39:05.302-05:00

My column: http://bit.ly/xP2uo6

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-4484368727580867362012-01-13T13:29:00.003-05:002012-01-13T13:54:07.122-05:00

When I hear the name Yoenis Cespedes, I am not sure whether to think about Sidd Finch, the fictional character in George Plimpton article from Sports Illustrated long ago that has to rank as one of the greatest, if not the greatest, April Fool's Day joke of all time, or Roy Hobbs, the Robert Redford character in "The Natural."Hey, we all know Cespedes is a workout warrior, but this isn't the NFL

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-54694904272704805172012-01-11T13:58:00.005-05:002012-01-11T14:26:24.974-05:00

In three seasons, Lions head coach Jim Schwartz has taken an 0-16 team to the playoffs with a 10-6 record and a nucleus of young players being developed. It's a no-brainer for the Lions to extend his contract before the start of next season. I fully expect them to do so.Same with wide receiver Calvin Johnson. They need to spread out the salary cap hit on his contract sooner instead of later.

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-85251301361136071382012-01-10T09:53:00.007-05:002012-01-10T10:37:24.468-05:00

It has long seemed preposterous Jack Morris, who won more games than any pitcher during the 1980s, is not in baseball's Hall of Fame. Every decade prior to that, the pitcher who won the most games, is in the Hall.Morris' ERA should not be the issue many people are making of it because he pitched in the era of extensive steroid use, and subsequently huge offensive numbers. It was only only

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-83719166824567117212012-01-09T14:48:00.002-05:002012-01-09T14:48:55.087-05:00

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-55953343157616344532012-01-08T01:35:00.003-05:002012-01-08T01:38:10.452-05:00

My column on Lions' loss to the Saints Saturday in the playoffs: http://bit.ly/wvyHT6

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-6179190156510070262012-01-07T22:08:00.003-05:002012-01-07T22:26:30.493-05:00

- I am not so sure Calvin Johnson isn't the best wide receiver I have ever seen not named Jerry Rice. He is a truly great player. The Lions' TD drive in the third quarter was because of his sheer brilliance.- Third down spot by the officials deep in Saints territory was garbage. He clearly didn't have the first down. Brutal. Key play in the game. Complexion of it changed when Saints marched down

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-86536065185106389972012-01-07T20:46:00.004-05:002012-01-07T21:34:31.154-05:00

- So far, this game is living up to its advance billing. Has the makings of a classic. Lions have anything but the deer-in-headlights look. Forcing turnovers huge. Lions in really good shape heading into the second half. Holding Saints to field goal on the final drive of the second quarter huge.- What was with the whistle on the fumble? It's ridiculous the Lions weren't able to advance that ball.

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-48717228238296634292012-01-07T20:27:00.002-05:002012-01-07T20:43:34.210-05:00

- What shootout? 7-0 after 1 quarter. Come on. Just kidding. Looks like it will be a shootout, for sure.- Great first drive for the Lions. Terrific use of Titus Young, who could be huge in this game. End around good play. Gives balance.- Lions QB Matthew Stafford typically sharp. Right on target. Blitzing him doesn't make sense. Not any more than it would the Lions blitzing Saints QB Drew Brees.-

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-33271096408094899632012-01-06T13:22:00.004-05:002012-01-06T14:00:58.551-05:00

I was watching the MLB Network the last couple nights, a show called "Clubhouse Confidential," and they came out with statistical comparisons that bode favorably for Alan Trammell as a Hall of Fame candidate.The host, Brian Kenney, is excellent on the show. I watch it regularly, so I'm not bagging on him. I just had to laugh, though, at this sudden discovery he made that Trammell's numbers

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-38109477166574767182012-01-06T03:39:00.003-05:002012-01-06T03:43:22.607-05:00

My column on the Lions-Saints: http://bit.ly/wh9FiA

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-12426112252173872412012-01-04T13:10:00.004-05:002012-01-04T13:59:03.193-05:00

The Tigers won 95 games last season, an ALDS series against the Yankees and pushed the Rangers in the ALCS. They have the best pitcher in baseball, Justin Verlander, and arguably the best hitter, Miguel Cabrera. Their lineup is solid throughout. So is their bullpen.They need another veteran pitcher to fill out the starting rotation, but the first four components are solid with Justin Verlander,

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-81146443357010864962012-01-04T06:21:00.001-05:002012-01-04T06:22:56.614-05:00

My column on Michigan's Sugar Bowl victory: http://bit.ly/z4YKJp

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-13184021316483601412012-01-03T22:50:00.003-05:002012-01-03T22:57:50.456-05:00

- The notion Michigan is more lucky than good tonight isn't totally true. The Wolverines have held Virginia Tech to three field goals in the red zone, and made another fourth-down stop deep in their own territory. That's not luck. It's good defense.- Jake Ryan is a player. Has a bright future.- Virginia Tech has been very mistake prone. One mistake after another. It has helped Michigan mightily.-

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-43790221779551700952012-01-03T21:38:00.004-05:002012-01-03T21:54:18.611-05:00

- Michigan played poorly in the first half, especially offensively. To be in the lead under the circumstances is amazing. The Wolverines are living a charmed life.- Linebacker Kenny Demens is the most underrated player on Michigan's team. Period. He was a four-star recruit out of Country Day and is an example of how Rich Rodriguez didn't get the most out of some pretty good players, while Brady

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-20565041357034130682012-01-03T21:02:00.002-05:002012-01-03T21:11:02.627-05:00

- This has been a very sloppy in the first quarter. Bad football, honestly. But this game will open up. There is too much firepower on both sides of the ball for it not to, despite Michigan and Virginia Tech both ranking seventh nationally in points per game allowed during the regular season.- It's disappointing the way Denard Robinson has played so far. It seems like he has regressed from the

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-8751683709420394652012-01-03T12:48:00.003-05:002012-01-03T13:09:18.198-05:00

When Barry Sanders topped the 2,000-yard rushing mark in 1997 at the Silverdome during a late-season game vs. the New York Jets, it was the cause of a big celebration. Sanders was carried off the field on the shoulders of his linemen, who loved him. It had been much-anticipated.When Matthew Stafford topped 5,000 yards passing in Green Bay Sunday, it didn't get nearly as much fanfare.Yet, the

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-42065140195421271462012-01-02T21:43:00.001-05:002012-01-02T21:44:33.883-05:00

My column: http://bit.ly/tgoQBs

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-43293203754615165072012-01-02T15:30:00.005-05:002012-01-02T15:40:39.993-05:00

- Michigan State has done a very good job of rallying. Darqueze Dennard made a huge play. MSU's defense is swarming in this game. Clearly playing well enough to win. Offense is coming to life.- Spartans have come up with nice running plays that take advantage of Georgia's over-pursuing.- More than anything else, MSU needs B.J. Cunningham to step up and make a big play.- Jerel Worthy is causing

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-2924040886858431582012-01-02T14:49:00.001-05:002012-01-02T14:50:30.517-05:00

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-15378077540695702562012-01-02T14:10:00.002-05:002012-01-02T14:32:55.475-05:00

- Awful first half by the Spartans. In a very important game for their program, they have not been prepared well for this game. That's on MSU coach Mark Dantonio. The play calling has lacked imagination. Defensively and on special teams, Spartans are allowing big plays.- Another example why the Spartans aren't ready for prime time? Sure seems like it. These SEC schools are just rolling them. This

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-62451306710757208712012-01-01T19:48:00.003-05:002012-01-01T21:05:27.056-05:00

My column on Lions loss to the Packers: http://bit.ly/uQCxyS

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-44836648994824914512012-01-01T15:47:00.004-05:002012-01-01T15:51:49.935-05:00

- All you need to know is that Matthew Stafford is only the seventh QB in NFL history to complete 40 touchdown passes in a season. All the others are either in the Pro Football Hall of Fame or will be. Brilliant season. This game is more proof of what he is capable of doing. Just the beginning.- As good as Stafford has been, Calvin Johnson has been just as good today. The two go hand-to-hand.-

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-41732577347695011102012-01-01T14:19:00.008-05:002012-01-01T14:55:38.098-05:00

- I thought the Lions would win this game today easily, that they would play with much more sense of urgency, and the Packers would be apathetic. I was wrong. The Packers are very much into this game. Says a lot about their championship pedigree. And the effectiveness of their offensive scheme. This is a far more interesting than I anticipated. It's a terrific game, actually - to watch. It isn't

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-24609700155886515572012-01-01T13:36:00.002-05:002012-01-01T13:47:35.607-05:00

- Who would have thought the biggest absence for today's game would be kick returner Randall Cobb, not QB Aaron Rodgers for Green Bay. Pat Lee as kick returner? That's awful. That's handing the game to the Lions. Too bad for Lions fans they aren't taking it.- Kevin Smith's fumble was a backbreaker. But that was a nice play by Desmond Bishop, an underrated linebacker.- Jordy Nelson is the

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-87001769980415036502012-01-01T08:23:00.001-05:002012-01-01T08:26:24.773-05:00

http://bit.ly/sAHkJa

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-16954875942703089962011-12-30T13:33:00.006-05:002011-12-30T13:56:50.690-05:00

What was not known about the song Rocky Top is it is really a euphemism for rock head. Rocks for brains? Hmmm.How else can it be explained Tennessee won't release wide receiver DeAntonhy Arnett from his scholarship so he can be closer to his father, who has turned ill in Saginaw. Oh, Tennessee will, but only to the state's MAC schools. Not Michigan or Michigan State. Not unless he pays his own

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-73662552134762090452011-12-29T12:25:00.003-05:002011-12-29T12:35:06.998-05:00

The Michigan-Ohio State game moved to earlier in the season and Michigan playing either Michigan State or Nebraska in the season-finale. Michigan State would make the most sense geographically, but you can't ignore Nebraska's pedigree. I think Michigan-Ohio State should still be a protected game by the Big Ten, but don't think it would work out well if both teams played in the season finale and

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-48007300403010178202011-12-29T11:35:00.002-05:002011-12-29T11:38:45.281-05:00

My column on the Pistons home opener: http://bit.ly/s7mEWw

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-18836130361088412862011-12-28T01:44:00.003-05:002011-12-28T02:08:49.006-05:00

My column: http://bit.ly/uMf5lA

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-36854829490558181292011-12-27T19:19:00.004-05:002011-12-27T19:29:35.856-05:00

What an embarrassment the Pro Bowl selection process is. How can Eli Manning be picked over Matthew Stafford? He has far fewer touchdown passes. His team has a lesser record. If the roles were reversed, and Stafford played in New York, you can't tell me he wouldn't be going to the Pro Bowl, not Manning.Gosh, the way these things work, I'm surprised Victor Cruz didn't make it over Calvin Johnson.

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-91749594608855607882011-12-27T11:05:00.004-05:002011-12-27T11:29:32.998-05:00

At 23, Matthew Stafford hasn't only shattered the Lions' record book, but his 2011 season statistically could put him among the NFL's truly elite quarterbacks.He is averaging 301 yards per game passing and thrown for 4,518 yards so far. If he passes for 282 yards in Sunday's season finale at Green Bay, Stafford will become only the fifth quarterback in NFL history to throw for 4,800 yards or more

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-80564064426687802012011-12-26T16:21:00.003-05:002011-12-26T16:22:25.623-05:00

Replay of my online video chat today

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-23599582433919269922011-12-26T11:45:00.004-05:002011-12-26T11:58:53.505-05:00

It's not necessarily how you play in the NFC playoffs, but often who you play.The best thing that can happen for the Lions is for New Orleans to beat Atlanta tonight, and the Lions to win their season finale at Green Bay against a Packers squad which will likely give a half-hearted effort because they have clinched home field advantage throughout the playoffs.It's extremely important the Lions

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-64636158417805830302011-12-26T05:26:00.002-05:002011-12-26T05:30:23.164-05:00

My column on the Pistons as they open season tonight: http://bit.ly/ujIXA6

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-14372629658699620642011-12-25T01:24:00.002-05:002011-12-25T01:28:02.581-05:00

My column on the Lions reaching playoffs for the first time since 1999: http://bit.ly/ui1Zdp

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-12628042022015073732011-12-24T17:59:00.005-05:002011-12-24T18:17:58.740-05:00

- The Lions have proven they can play from behind. How about with a lead? It was difficult to watch how the third quarter played out without thinking about the Minnesota game. Suffice to say Phillip Rivers is far more dangerous than Joe Webb.- The first offensive series of the third quarter was not a good one for the Lions. They needed to not act like they were playing with the lead, but to

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-12410302006599245402011-12-24T16:49:00.004-05:002011-12-24T17:17:31.977-05:00

- Matthew Stafford has had some excellent games this season, but this is potentially his best yet. He is extremely sharp today._ Lions need not to turtle in the second half. They must stay agressive. Don't give Phillip Rivers a chance to lead a comeback.- Stafford has been sacked a couple times, but for the most part, the Lions offensive line has given him an incredible amount of time to throw.

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-74089857597840823672011-12-24T16:19:00.003-05:002011-12-24T16:40:51.053-05:00

- Great decision by the Lions to come out throwing deep right away. Even if you don't complete that pass to Calvin Johnson, it lets the Chargers know right away you are coming at them. As it went, Lions QB Matthew Stafford did complete the pass. And it set up a TD.- Idea for a reality TV show. "Preacher Curls with Ed Hochuli." The man has better guns, though, than instincts as a referee.-

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-36750332036426233172011-12-24T15:22:00.002-05:002011-12-24T15:33:15.796-05:00

- This game is on the Lions' defensive line. The Chargers offensive line has been pieced together by tape and glue because of injuries. Their left tackle, Jared Gaither, for example,didn't pass a physical for one team and was cut by another team before landing in San Diego. Conversely, the Lions defensive front is their great strength. Time to live up to its reputation.- The Lions can't just rush

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-70453735920069623562011-12-23T12:26:00.007-05:002011-12-23T14:20:48.114-05:00

I love the YouTube element to Yoenis Cespedes, the Cuban outfielder who is on the open market apparently to the highest bidder. If he were an NFL player preparing for the draft, they'd refer to him as a workout warrior. He looks great in his uniform. He has exceptional speed and throws well. He is more the stocky, strong player with speed type (running back) than the fluid lean athlete (wide

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-82365052714504260282011-12-22T03:13:00.003-05:002011-12-22T03:17:25.314-05:00

My column: http://bit.ly/sMliOA

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-78618877230231249882011-12-21T12:50:00.007-05:002011-12-21T13:16:53.310-05:00

Gene Smith, the athletic director at Ohio State, issued a statement Tuesday after the Buckeyes football program was stripped of more scholarships, another year of probation was added and Ohio State was banned from the Big Ten title game and a bowl game for next season by the NCAA.“We are surprised and disappointed with the NCAA's decision,” Smith said.Why? Ohio State lost institutional control of

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-57650783886589083962011-12-20T11:36:00.004-05:002011-12-20T12:02:52.705-05:00

Would the Lions simply be one and done in the playoffs? It looked that way Monday Night watching the 49ers throttle the Steelers.The Lions' offense doesn't match up well with the 49ers defense because they don't run the ball effectively. It would be tee-off time on Lions QB Matthew Stafford for San Francisco's front seven, led by Justin Smith and Aldon Smith, who both played very effectively when

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-92177304905228162702011-12-19T15:18:00.000-05:002011-12-19T15:19:06.198-05:00

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-67191048928244589492011-12-19T12:03:00.001-05:002011-12-19T12:04:20.343-05:00

Will get into Lions heavy and other issues http://bit.ly/uPAab5

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-41972103543672235262011-12-18T21:17:00.005-05:002011-12-19T02:38:34.662-05:00

My column on Lions win over Raiders: http://bit.ly/rBEK6c

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-24541189667420079522011-12-18T17:49:00.003-05:002011-12-18T18:24:22.168-05:00

- Big turnover by Justin Durant. Could be the turning point of the game. And that was a made play by the defense.- I thought Lions coach Jim Schwartz made the right call going for it on fourth down late in the third quarter. If there is such a thing as four-down territory in the NFL, that was it. The play call? I'm not so sure. Seemed too obvious what the Lions were going to do.- There is so

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-38999253296815398732011-12-18T16:56:00.002-05:002011-12-18T17:34:03.252-05:00

- There were supposed to be a zillion penalties in this game. So far, it's almost been a penalty-free game. Weird.- The Raiders drive for a field goal to end the second quarter was just too easy.- The Lions lack of running game has been hurtful all season, but is particularly painful today. It's Matthew Stafford or bust. It's all on him, and Calvin Johnson, to make big plays. The good part is the

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-17317361704452216502011-12-18T16:44:00.003-05:002011-12-18T16:52:10.636-05:00

Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford is proving this season that he was anything but a wasted pick first overall. Can you imagine if the Lions had taken offensive tackle Jason Smith first overall that year? Or linebacker Aaron Curry? The Lions' progress would be much less. Reaching 30 TD pass quite an accomplishment. Needs to cutdown on the turnovers, though.- So much for Ndamukong Suh making that

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-45106751222373973532011-12-17T18:24:00.002-05:002011-12-17T18:27:45.209-05:00

My column: http://bit.ly/soKAm6

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-10189902864265938232011-12-16T10:21:00.004-05:002011-12-16T10:53:57.789-05:00

Early on, the Lions Calvin Johnson had been on pace to become only the third receiver in NFL history to catch 20 or more touchdown passes in a season, joining Randy Moss and Jerry Rice.His pace has slowed considerably. He has one touchdown reception in the last five games, and just three in the last eight games. The Lions are 3-5 in those games. When they got out to a 5-0 start, it was keyed by

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-3089052360621033652011-12-15T21:31:00.002-05:002011-12-15T22:35:02.583-05:00

My column http://bit.ly/vAnTvbOakland Press reader soundoff about Ndamukong Suh

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-67622290375691496372011-12-15T04:42:00.004-05:002011-12-15T11:51:16.821-05:00

Look, I didn't have a problem with Ndamukong Suh returning and not having a mea culpa about his stomping incident on the field Thanksgiving Day, and the two-game suspension it brought. Or if he didn't talk about his traffic accident in Portland. If he doesn't want to talk about it, he doesn't have to.But it must be understood, the questions are coming. Our job is to ask what you'd ask, given the

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-72106467238893159482011-12-15T04:28:00.002-05:002011-12-15T04:32:32.735-05:00

My column from Pistons media day: http://bit.ly/tKaBkl

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-14912348849675756372011-12-14T09:26:00.004-05:002011-12-14T09:58:05.938-05:00

Urban Meyer has already created a splash by getting Michigan State recruit Se'Von Pittman, a defensive end, to change his commitment to Ohio State. He has also persuaded defensive linemen Tommy Schutt, Penn State's top recruit, to change to Ohio State.It's quick impact, and has turned heads, but isn't unexpected. Meyer is the perfect fit at Ohio State. He couldn't be more high profile for what he

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-37876057796939351612011-12-14T02:25:00.002-05:002011-12-14T02:28:00.928-05:00

My latest column: http://bit.ly/rxGBoi

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-29725122629878181922011-12-13T11:27:00.004-05:002011-12-13T11:46:42.483-05:00

What was the difference between Ben Wallace's sentence for driving under the influence of alcohol Tuesday and Jalen Rose's earlier this year?Could be as simple as the judgesEven though there were handgun charges also involved with Wallace, he received one year probation, approximately $2,700 in fines and 30 hours of community service. No jail.Rose got 92 days in jail and a year's probation, but

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-91447707966177437022011-12-12T20:44:00.002-05:002011-12-12T20:46:05.482-05:00

Replay of my live video chat. We do this every Monday at 12:30

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-46782019283063748842011-12-12T10:11:00.004-05:002011-12-12T20:44:52.629-05:00

I voted for Robert Griffin III for the Heisman Trophy, who won the award, this year, and while he is a different player than Denard Robinson, Michigan's quarterback, I do see parallels.Robinson figures to go into next season as a leading candidate for the Heisman.The similarities are that Robinson and Griffin both have extraordinary speed and do their best work out of the spread, although each do

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-52120345635215091652011-12-12T00:32:00.002-05:002011-12-12T00:36:21.091-05:00

My column on the Lions-Vikings game: http://bit.ly/tnYu5l

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-50541724066640238202011-12-11T15:17:00.002-05:002011-12-11T15:28:06.878-05:00

- It doesn't matter if it's Michael Vick, let alone Joe Webb, but there is no excuse for allowing any quarterback to break leverage for a 65-yard touchdown run like that. Webb walked home with it, too. Brutal breakdown by the Lions defense, which looked like it was running in quicksand on the play.- The Lions strategy against Webb should be very simple. Have try to beat them with his arm, not his

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-59959466461005637232011-12-11T14:15:00.004-05:002011-12-11T14:35:35.053-05:00

- We'll see how much killer instinct the Lions have in the second half. They should put the Vikings away. Injuries in the Lions' secondary a mounting concern, though. They need Aaron Berry. Redemption for Alphonso Smith?- I have to admit, I wondered what all the fuss was about Christian Ponder. Saw him play a lot at Florida State. Didn't think he was worthy of a first-round pick, but he is gifted

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-62644205193893938922011-12-11T13:28:00.004-05:002011-12-11T13:47:24.884-05:00

- The Lions are doing exactly what they need to to by trucking the Vikings. They are hitting very hard and definitely have football's version of "jump" today. They have been very well prepared for this game.- So Jared Allen got a sack. So he did his little bit and was booed. It was poetic justice the Lions scored on the next play considering Allen's pathetic comments that were critical of Detroit

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-1456643304962648662011-12-11T12:30:00.002-05:002011-12-11T12:41:19.502-05:00

- Toby Gerhart is a solid back, who ran with authority last week against Denver, but he is not Adrian Peterson, who is out with an ankle injury. That will be especially helpful for the Lions defense considering Christian Ponder is a rookie QB. The Lions can load up to come after him.- The Lions will see the wildcat today. The Vikings run it regularly with backup QB Joe Webb. They might run it

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-84412323321318675182011-12-11T00:10:00.002-05:002011-12-11T00:15:39.407-05:00

My column on Michigan-Oakland game at The Palace http://bit.ly/vbGMBG

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-36227374819222072942011-12-09T11:08:00.011-05:002011-12-09T11:48:53.200-05:00

Guess the Florida Marlins and Los Angeles Angels will meet in the World Series, and they shouldn't even bother playing the 2012 baseball season.Not trying to be cynical here, but I guess I am.My point is the off season is to make teams better, not necessarily to make "a splash."This town understands that more than any other. The Tigers were the Marlins and Angels of the winter meetings in 2007.

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-65536912058528868952011-12-08T03:38:00.003-05:002011-12-08T03:42:41.260-05:00

My column on NHL's realignment: http://bit.ly/rUvdJ5

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-24980718482519189712011-12-07T11:49:00.012-05:002011-12-07T17:33:43.281-05:00

The winter meetings are baseball's version of a trip to the mall at Christmas time. Some teams buy on impulse (this year it is the Marlins), most teams shop around carefully before buying because they have a limited budget and others just window shop because, well, they are the type that have pretty much what they need.The Tigers are in the latter category. They don't have to purchase any big

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-25571961532682041712011-12-07T03:13:00.001-05:002011-12-07T03:17:00.843-05:00

My column: http://bit.ly/vTvve3

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-55115921187771157602011-12-06T02:06:00.003-05:002011-12-06T11:06:09.597-05:00

Ndamukong Suh's star rose quickly as a rookie in 2010, but it's falling as quickly in 2011.And who could have seen this coming?It's not because his production is down on the field, either. He is still an excellent player. It's because of issues where he has put himself ahead of others. The stomping on the arm of Green Bay Packers lineman Evan Dietrich-Smith and then misrepresenting what happened

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-40044405725424719782011-12-05T15:00:00.001-05:002011-12-05T15:02:19.084-05:00

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-40520643492320825932011-12-05T04:55:00.001-05:002011-12-05T04:55:42.469-05:00

My latest column: http://bit.ly/w4sP5C

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-76041797878748049542011-12-04T22:40:00.001-05:002011-12-04T22:43:03.421-05:00

- It's about time some of the Lions other receivers than Calvin Johnson step up and start making plays, although the Titus Young penalty inexcusable.- Stafford is having a great game, although he is underthrowing some passes, which could have cost the Lions.- Defense doing a little better, but you get this sense Drew Brees is about to break loose again.- In the past, the Lions would have been

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-7630221835700228032011-12-04T21:43:00.005-05:002011-12-04T21:53:38.637-05:00

- The Saints' last touchdown drive was a disgusting example of defensive football by the Lions. It was like a 7-on-nobody drill in minicamp.- If Ndamukong Suh makes the same type of hit as Shaun Rogers made on Matthew Stafford, he gets fined $20,000 by the NFL. And Rogers didn't even draw a flag.- For Drew Brees, this is like stealing candy from a baby. It's just too easy.- The Lions miss Suh.

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-88261522964359875692011-12-04T12:42:00.003-05:002011-12-04T12:58:02.039-05:00

One of the many problems with the BCS bowl system is the twisted logic it presents.I do believe Michigan has a better chance to land a BCS bowl bid than Michigan State, but that doesn't make it just.Michigan State would essentially be punished for winning its division in the Big Ten, ahead of Michigan, and losing the title game to Wisconsin, a team it beat during the regular season. Also,

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-53101559995842774642011-12-04T04:44:00.001-05:002011-12-04T04:45:48.587-05:00

My column on Michigan State's loss to Wisconsin in Big Ten championship game: http://bit.ly/ss98vv

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-64213606717967093802011-12-04T04:13:00.002-05:002011-12-04T04:16:10.091-05:00

My column on Lions-Saints http://bit.ly/sEZN5F

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-23553636296188575742011-12-03T23:56:00.002-05:002011-12-04T00:02:57.585-05:00

Note: Will have a full column posted later- If Michigan State didn't win this game this year, you have to wonder if they will in the near future. Michigan is upcoming. Nebraska is going to get better, not worse. That's in the division. Overall in the Big Ten, Urban Meyer is coming to Ohio State. Blown opportunity by the Spartans.- Yeah. I did tout Michigan State's Mark Dantonio over Michigan's

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29764383.post-20187259833576979952011-12-03T22:53:00.002-05:002011-12-03T23:04:20.888-05:00

- This is a great game. It's going to be on the quarterbacks in the last quarter. I do believe Russell Wilson is a better player than Kirk Cousins, but I'd give Cousins the edge in the fourth quarter because his receivers are so much better. The Badgers don't have a B.J. Cunningham. Ultimately he might be the difference in this game.- Excellent game management by Michigan State coach Mark

Pat Caputohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05102662407927366439noreply@blogger.com1