Playboy's Andrea Lowell joins GamePoints Rendez-Vous

Always a good sport and a ton of fun, Andrea Lowell from Playboy radio and TV was on the show last night and it was too much fun. Have a listen.

David Pagnotta Responds to Thornton for Plekanec Trade Suggestion

TheFourthPeriod.com Editor-in-Chief David Pagnotta joined us to discuss our suggested Joe Thornton for Tomas Plekanec and a second round pick idea. Here are his thoughts.

John Hoven on GamePoints

L.A Kings writer John Hoven joins Matthew Ross to discuss L.A / Vancouver series and more on the NHL Playoffs. Originally aired, Sunday April 22.

GamePoints with Matthew Ross: NHL Playoffs Roundtable with Bernstein and...

Part 2: Matthew Ross continues his discussion with Dennis Bernstein and Joe Yerdon.

GamePoints with Matthew Ross: NHL Playoffs Roundtable with Dennis Bernst...

Dennis Bernstein of thefourthperiod.com and Joe Yerdon of nbcsports.com join Matthew to discuss the NHL Playoffs.

A Social Media Tribute To Jackie Robinson

April 15th, 2012 marks the 65th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the colour barrier and making his Major League Baseball debut. All players of MLB teams will honour Robinson by wearing #42. Here in Montreal, the occasion (for who are aware of it) will be bittersweet. Yes, as Montrealers, we should feel proud that our city was the host of Mr. Robinson and his family in 1946 ; however, it is sad that we are not part of the league-wide tribute. Come to think about it, I'm unaware of any tribute that the city has if any regarding the former Montreal Royal.

Without any form of professional baseball in Montreal to honour the date, I have collected a few references on social media sites and other sources to acknowledge Robinson's link to baseball in Montreal. It is my own way to show that hardcore baseball fans will always honour #42.

Jackie Robinson's stats as a Montreal Royal

(Source: Baseball-Reference.com)

On April 11, 1947, the following words appeared in The Montreal Gazette

"Jackie Robinson, brilliant Negro infielder, today became the first of his race to break into modern major league baseball when President Branch Rickey of Brooklyn Dodgers announced the purchase of his contract from Montreal Royals of the International league." (Source; The Montreal Gazette)

(Source: Flickr)

View a clip from Jackie Robinson | Historica - Dominion trailer.

A commentary regarding Jackie Robinson and family stay in Montreal from ESPN's John Saunders.

This is the statue that stands in front of Olympic Stadium in Montreal of Jackie Robinson.

In February 2011, U.S. diplomats unveil a commemorative plaque at the apartment the couple called home in the summer of 1946.

In 1946, after the International League championship celebration appeared over, Robinson emerged from the clubhouse, only to have adoring fans chase him down the street, wanting to touch their hero one last time. The scene inspired Pittsburgh Courier correspondent, Sam Maltin, to write, “It was the first time that a white mob chased a black man down the street, not out of hate, but because of love.” Moved by the affection of Montrealers after the Junior World Series triumph, Robinson remarked, “This is the city for me. This is paradise." (Source: Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum)

Related Post(s)

• The Future Of Montreal Baseball Is Not Via The 401
• Montreal baseball news is bittersweet
  

Follow me @sportstaughts

The Future Of Montreal Baseball Is Not Via The 401

Based on a post on the Montreal Expos Facebook Page, there is a plan to have a couple of buses with Expos fans to travel to T.O. to watch a Jays game. I made a baseball vow to myself ever since the last out in Montreal Expos' history. A vow to NEVER support the Toronto Blue Jays in any fashion, even not watching a game on television. (By the way, someone needs to tell Buck Martinez to cut his hair). If you scroll through the comments, you will see my opposition to such an idea.

My guess is that the idea is based upon Quebec Nordiques fans attending New York Islanders' games this past season to demonstrate their interest in having NHL back in Quebec. The same model can't be applied to getting back Major League Baseball (MLB) in Montreal. Primarily, there are not any MLB franchises looking to move nor is the league considering to expand in the near future.

If the objective of the plan is to show that Montreal Expos fans still care about MLB and baseball in general, it should not start with putting money into or supporting an organization that wanted to contract the Expos. It should start here chez-nous in Montreal with the following.

1 - Talking baseball. Tune into TSN 990 Montreal where there are a series of hosts waiting to talk baseball, not hockey, but baseball.
2 - Support local ball. If you are a pure fan of baseball, it is time to get out (en masse) and attend junior and university baseball. When was the last time you took in a LaSalle Cardinals game or attend a free McGill Redmen / Concordia Stingers match-up?

And don't forget putting your support behind the Montreal Baseball Project. I cannot wait until the fan fair, baseball clinic and gala on June 16, 2012.

Related Post(s):

• Montreal baseball news is bittersweet
  

Final Taughts

• Welcome to the NHL Shea Weber. I see that the National Headshot League is growing in a very innovative fashion thanks to Shea Weber going Junk Yard Dog on Henrik Zetterberg not once but twice. Well done!
• Price should be not a Preds nor a Pekka fan. If I am Carey Price, I do not want to see the Nashville Predators and Pekka Rinne win one more game. If the new general manager of the Habs using Rinne as a benchmark for negotiating Price's contract, there is no way I'm offing 31 Rinne type of money, especially if the Preds win the Stanley Cup.
  

Follow me @sportstaughts

Top 10 MMA Rankings- April 2012

Courtesy of David Simon @ www.ringsidereport.net




This is the 9th monthly installment of the Ringside Report official Top 10 MMA rankings. Note: These rankings were compiled and debated on the April 5, 2012 episode of Ringside Report Radio.

There were no changes this month in any of the Top 10 rankings as there were no Top 10 fighters in action in March.

There are currently no Top 10 heavyweights scheduled for competition in April.

Heavyweights- 207-265 lbs.

1. Junior Dos Santos (14-1, UFC HW champion) Last fight: KO win over Cain Velasquez on November 12, 2011 to win UFC HW title. Next Fight: defending UFC HW title versus Alistair Overeem on May 26, 2012 at UFC 146

2. Cain Velasquez (9-1) Last fight: KO loss to Junior Dos Santos on November 12, 2011. Next Fight: versus Frank Mir on May 26, 2012 at UFC 146.

3.Alistair Overeem (36-11-1) Last fight: TKO win over Brock Lesnar at UFC 141 on December 30, 2011. Next Fight: versus Junior Dos Santos on May 26, 2012 at UFC 146

4. Josh Barnett (31-5) Last fight: submission win over Sergei Kharitonov on September 10, 2011. Next fight: versus Daniel Cormier on May 19, 2012 for Strikeforce: Heavyweight Grand Prix Finale

5. Daniel Cormier (9-0) Last fight: KO win over Antonio Silva on September 10, 2011. Next fight: versus Josh Barnett on May 19, 2012 for Strikeforce: Heavyweight Grand Prix Finale

6. Frank Mir (16-5) Last fight: submission win over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira on December 10, 2011 at UFC 140. Next Fight: versus Cain Velasquez on May 26, 2012 at UFC 146.

7. Fabricio Werdum (15-5-1) Last fight: UD win Roy Nelson on February 4, 2012 at UFC 143. Next fight: versus Mike Russow on June 23, 2012 at UFC 147

8. Antonio Silva (16-3) Last fight: KO loss to Daniel Cormier on September 10, 2012. Next fight: versus Roy Nelson on May 26, 2012 at UFC 146

9. Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira (33-7-1-1) Last fight: submission loss to Frank Mir on December 10, 2011 at UFC 140. Next Fight: TBA

10. Shane Carwin (12-2) Last fight: UD loss to Junior Dos Santos on June 11, 2011. Next fight: TBA

Honourable mentions: Sergei Kharitonov, Mark Hunt, Fedor Emelianenko, Cheick Kongo, Shane Carwin, Gabriel Gonzaga, Mike Russow

Number 1 ranked UFC LHW champion Jon Jones is scheduled to defend his title against 5th ranked Rashad Evans on the 21st of this month in Atlanta, Georgia. 7th ranked Alexander Gustafsson will headline UFC on Fuel 2 versus a returning Thiago Silva on the 14th in Gustafsson’s home country of Sweden.

Light-Heavyweights- 205 lbs.

1. Jon Jones (15-1, UFC Light-Heavyweight Champion) Last fight: submission win over Lyoto Machida on December 10, 2011. Next fight: versus Rashad Evans for UFC LHW title at UFC 145 on April 21, 2012.

2. Dan Henderson (29-8) Last fight: UD win over Mauricio “Shogun” Rua on November 19, 2011. Next Fight: TBA

3. Mauricio “Shogun” Rua (20-6) Last Fight: UD loss to Dan Henderson on November 19, 2011. Next Fight: TBA

4. Lyoto Machida (17-3) Last fight: submission loss to Jon Jones on December 10, 2011 at UFC 140. Next Fight: TBA

5. Rashad Evans (17-1-1D) Last fight: Unanimous Decision win over Phil Davis on January 28, 2012 at UFC on Fox 2. Next fight: versus Jon Jones for UFC LHW title at UFC 145 on April 21, 2012.

6. Phil Davis (9-1) Last fight: UD loss to Rashad Evans on January 28, 2012 at UFC on Fox 2. Next fight: TBA

7. Alexander Gustafsson (13-1) Last fight: TKO win over Vladimir Matyushenko at UFC 141 on December 30, 2011. Next fight: versus Thiago Silva on April 14, 2012 at UFC on Fuel 2.

8. Gegard Mousasi (32-3-2) Last fight: Unanimous Decision win over Ovince St-Preux on December 17, 2011. Next fight: TBA

9. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (20-5) Last fight: TKO win over Tito Ortiz on December 10, 2011 at UFC 140. Next fight: TBA

10. Quinton “Rampage” Jackson (32-10) Last fight: UD loss to Ryan Bader on February 25, 2012 at UFC 144. Next fight: TBA

Honourable mentions: Muhammed “King Mo” Lawal, Rafael “Feijao” Cavalcante, Forrest Griffin, Ryan Bader, Tito Ortiz

8th ranked Brian Stann is the only Top 10 MW scheduled for competition in April. Stann will face Alessio Sakara at UFC on Fuel 2 on April 14.

Middleweights- 185 lbs.

1. Anderson Silva (31-4, UFC Middleweight Champion) Last fight: TKO win over Yushin Okami on August 27, 2011. Next fight: versus Chael Sonnen on June 23, 2012 at UFC 147 in Brazil.

2. Chael Sonnen (27-11-1D) Last fight: Unanimous decision win over Michael Bisping on January 28, 2012 at UFC on Fox 2. Next Fight: versus Anderson Silva on June 23, 2012 at UFC 147 in Brazil.

3. Mark Munoz (12-2) Last fight: TKO win over Chris Leben on November 5, 2011. Next fight: TBA

4. Vitor Belfort (21-9) Last fight: submission win over Anthony Johnson at UFC 142 on January 14, 2012. Next fight: versus Wanderlei Silva on June 23, 2012 at UFC 147 in Brazil.

5. Michael Bisping (22-4) Last fight: UD loss to Chael Sonnen on January 28, 2012 at UFC on Fox 2. Next fight: versus Tim Boetsch on July 7, 2012 at UFC 148

6. Yushin Okami (26-7) Last fight: TKO loss to Tim Boetsch on February 25, 2012 at UFC 144. Next fight: TBA

7. Demian Maia (15-4) Last fight: UD loss to Chris Weidman on January 28, 2012 at UFC on Fox 2. Next Fight: versus Dong Hyun Kim in first WW fight on July 7, 2012 at UFC 148

8. Brian Stann (11-4) Last fight: submission loss to Chael Sonnen on October 8, 2011. Next fight: versus Alessio Sakara on April 14, 2012 at UFC on FX 2

9. Luke Rockhold (9-1, Strikeforce MW champion) Last fight: TKO win over Keith Jardine on January 8, 2012 at Strikeforce: Rockhold v. Jardine. Next fight: TBA

10. Hector Lombard (31-2-1-1NC, Bellator MW champion) Last fight: TKO win over Trevor Prangley on November 19, 2011. Next Fight: TBA

Honourable mentions: Mamed Khalidov, Jorge Santiago, Rousimar Palhares, Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza, Wanderlei Silva, Chris Weidman, Tim Boetsch

10th ranked Rory MacDonald is the only Top 10 WW scheduled for competition this month. MacDonald will face Che Mills at UFC 145 on the 21st.

Welterweights- 170 lbs.

1. Georges St-Pierre (22-2 UFC Welterweight Champion) Last fight: UD win over Jake Shields on April 30, 2011 Next fight: TBA

2. Carlos Condit (28-5) Last fight: UD win over Nick Diaz on February 4, 2012 at UFC 143 for interim UFC Welterweight Championship. Next fight: TBA

3. Josh Koscheck (17-5) Last fight: SD win over Mike Pierce on February 4, 2012 at UFC 143. Next fight: versus Johny Hendricks at UFC on Fox 3 on May 5, 2012.

4. Nick Diaz (26-8-1D) Last fight: UD loss to Carlos Condit on February 4, 2012 at UFC 143 for interim UFC Welterweight Championship. Next fight: TBA

5. Jon Fitch (23-4-1NC-1D) Last fight: KO loss to Johny Hendricks on December 30, 2011 at UFC 141. Next fight: TBA

6. Jake Shields (27-6-1D) Last fight: UD win over Yoshihiro Akiyama on February 25, 2012 at UFC 144. Next fight: expected to be at MW in August 2012

7. Jake Ellenberger (27-5) Last fight: UD win over Diego Sanchez on February 15, 2012 at UFC on Fuel TV 1. Next fight: versus Martin Kampmann on June 1, 2012 at TUF 15 finale

8. B.J. Penn (16-8-2) Last fight: UD loss to Nick Diaz on October 29, 2011 at UFC 137. Next fight: TBA

9. Johny Hendricks (12-1) Last fight: KO win over Jon Fitch on December 30, 2011 at UFC 141. Next fight: versus Josh Koscheck at UFC on Fox 3 on May 5, 2012.

10. Rory MacDonald (12-1) Last fight: TKO win over Mike Pyle on August 6, 2011 at UFC 133. Next fight: versus Che Mills on April 21, 2012 at UFC 145.

Honourable mentions: Martin Kampmann, Dong Hyun Kim, John Hathaway, Charlie Brenneman, Thiago Alves, Rick Story, Diego Sanchez, Tyron Woodley.

7th ranked Shinya Aoki is the only Top 10 LW scheduled for competition this month. Aoki will face Eddie Alvarez at Bellator 66 on April 20.

Lightweights- 155 lbs.

1. Benson Henderson (16-2) Last fight: UD win over Frankie Edgar on February 25, 2012 at UFC 144 for UFC LW title. Next fight: versus Frankie Edgar in summer 2012

2. Frankie Edgar (14-2-1, UFC Lightweight Champion) Last fight: UD loss to Benson Henderson on February 25, 2012 at UFC 144 to lose UFC LW title. Next fight: versus Benson Henderson in summer 2012

3. Gray Maynard (10-1-1D-1NC) Last fight: KO loss to Frankie Edgar on October 8, 2011 at UFC 136. Next fight: versus Clay Guida on June 22, 2012 at UFC on FX 4

4. Gilbert Melendez (20-2, Strikeforce LW champion) Last fight: UD win over Jorge Masvidal to defend Strikeforce LW title on December 17, 2011. Next fight: TBA

5. Anthony Pettis (15-2) Last fight: KO win over Joe Lauzon on February 25, 2012 at UFC 144. Next fight: TBA

6. Clay Guida (29-12) Last fight: UD loss to Benson Henderson on November 12, 2011. Next Fight: versus Gray Maynard on June 22, 2012 at UFC on FX 4.

7. Shinya Aoki (30-5-1NC, DREAM LW champion) Last fight: UD win over Satoru Kitaoka to defend DREAM LW title on December 31, 2011 at DREAM New Year’s Eve 2011. Next fight: versus Eddie Alvarez at Bellator 66 on April 20, 2012

8. Nate Diaz (15-7) Last fight: Unanimous Decision win over Donald Cerrone on December 30, 2011 at UFC 141. Next fight: versus Jim Miller on May 5, 2012 at UFC on Fox 3.

9. Jim Miller (21-3) Last Fight: submission win over Melvin Guillard on January 20, 2012 at UFC on FX 1. Next fight: versus Nate Diaz on May 5, 2012 at UFC on Fox 3.

10. Donald Cerrone (17-4-1) Last Fight: UD loss to Nate Diaz on December 30, 2011 at UFC 141. Next fight: versus Jeremy Stephens on May 15, 2012 at UFC on Fuel 3.

Honourable mentions: Rafael Dos Anjos, Jorge Masvidal, Joe Lauzon, Edson Barboza, Eddie Alvarez, Michael Chandler, Takanori Gomi

4th ranked Diego Nunes will face newcomer to the FW division Dennis Siver on April 14 at UFC on Fuel 2. 5th ranked Mark Hominick will fight on April 21 at UFC 145 versus Eddie Yagin.

Featherweights-145 lbs.

1. Jose Aldo (21-1, UFC Featherweight Champion) Last fight: KO win over Chad Mendes at UFC 142 on January 14, 2012. Next fight: versus an opponent TBA on July 21, 2012 at UFC 149

2. Chad Mendes (11-1) Last fight: KO loss to Jose Aldo at UFC 142 on January 14, 2012. Next fight: TBA

3. Hatsu Hioki (26-4-2) Last fight: UD win over Bart Palaszewski on February 25, 2012 at UFC 144. Next fight: TBA

4. Diego Nunes (17-2) Last fight: UD win over Manvel Gamburyan on December 30, 2011 at UFC 141. Next fight: versus Dennis Siver at UFC on Fuel TV 2 on April 14, 2012.

5. Mark Hominick (20-10) Last fight: KO loss to Chan Sung Jung on December 10, 2011 at UFC 140. Next fight: versus Eddie Yagin on April 21, 2012 at UFC 145.

6. Erik Koch (13-1) Last fight: UD win over Jonathan Brookins on September 17, 2011. Next fight: TBA

7. Charles Oliveira (15-2-1) Last Fight: submission win over Eric Wisely on January 28, 2012. Next Fight: TBA

8. Darren Elkins (13-2) Last fight: UD win over Zhang Tiequan on October 8, 2011 at UFC 136. Next fight: versus Diego Brandao on May 26, 2012 at UFC 146.

9. Dustin Poirier (12-1) Last Fight: submission win over Max Holloway on February 4, 2012 at UFC 143. Next fight: versus Chan Sung Jung on May 15, 2012 at UFC on Fuel 3.

10. Chan Sung Jung (12-3) Last fight: KO win over Mark Hominick on December 10, 2011 at UFC 140. Next fight: versus Dustin Poirier on May 15, 2012 at UFC on Fuel 3.

Honourable mentions: Joe Warren, Marlon Sandro, Bart Palaszewski, Patricio “Pitbull” Freire, Pat Curran, Yuri Alcantara, Cub Swanson, Ricardo Lamas, Jonathan Brookins, Kenny Florian (retired).

9th ranked Brad Pickett will face Damacio Page on April 14 at UFC on Fuel 2. 6th ranked Miguel Torres will face 8th ranked Michael McDonald on April 21 at UFC 145.

Bantamweights- 135 lbs.

1. Dominick Cruz (19-1, UFC Bantamweight Champion) Last fight: UD win over Demetrious Johnson on October 1, 2011 to defend UFC BW title. Next fight: versus Urijah Faber for UFC BW title on July 7, 2012 at UFC 148.

2. Urijah Faber (26-5) Last fight: submission win over Brian Bowles on November 19, 2011. Next Fight: versus Dominick Cruz for UFC BW title on July 7, 2012 at UFC 148.

3. Renan Barao (28-1-1) Last fight: UD win over Scott Jorgensen on February 4, 2012 at UFC 143. Next fight: versus Ivan Menjivar on July 7, 2012 at UFC 148.

4. Scott Jorgensen (13-5) Last fight: UD loss to Renan Barao on February 4, 2012 at UFC 143. Next fight: versus Eddie Wineland on June 8, 2012 at UFC on FX 3.

5. Brian Bowles (10-2) Last fight: submission loss to Urijah Faber on November 19, 2011. Next Fight: TBA

6. Miguel Torres (39-4) Last fight: UD win over Nick Pace on November 19, 2011. Next Fight: versus Michael McDonald on April 21, 2012 at UFC 145.

7. Bibiano Fernandes (11-3) Last fight: UD win over Rodolfo Marques and TKO win over Antonio Banuelos to win DREAM BW Grand Prix on December 31, 2011 at DREAM New Year’s Eve 2011. Next fight: TBA

8. Michael McDonald (14-1) Last fight: KO win over Alex Soto on November 19, 2011. Next Fight: versus Miguel Torres on April 21, 2012 at UFC 145.

9. Brad Pickett (20-6) Last fight: submission loss to Renan Barao on November 5, 2011. Next fight: versus Damacio Page at UFC on Fuel 2 on April 14, 2012.

10. Ivan Menjivar (24-8) Last fight: submission win over John Albert on February 15, 2012 at UFC on Fuel TV. Next fight: versus Renan Barao on July 7, 2012 at UFC 148.

Honourable mentions: Eddie Wineland Antonio Banuelos, Yves Jabouin. John Dodson, Zach Makovsky, Nick Denis, Mike Easton, Takeya Mizugaki, Chris Cariaso, TJ Dillashaw

Montreal baseball news is bittersweet

Labatt Park - The Expos home that never was

As hardcore Montreal baseball fans, and closet fans who've not thought about the past time in several years, unite surrounding Warren Cromartie's recent Montreal Baseball Project press conference announcement, the whole thing is bittersweet for me.

I miss it. I miss it a lot. When the Expos left, I cried it out and moved on. Many years passed. I rooted somewhat for the Red Sox and it was okay. But something in me was awakened in July 2010, the month of Andre Dawson's Cooperstown induction. A TEAM 990 bus filled with passionate fellow baseball fans, complete with my dad alongside me, really ignited something from within. Combine that with the Annakin Slayd Remember the Expos anthem, and my Expos fever was out of control. Since then, I have done everything in my power to promote, encourage and perpetuate the Expos and the game of baseball in my city - and beyond.

Recently, limited free time has been spent searching for something to latch on to, be it video clips, interviews on my show with former players, story-sharing with fellow fans, etc... But it's never enough. It's a tease and it doesn't completely bring back the relaxed yet exciting feeling of walking into a ballpark, plunking down in my seat and taking in the sights and sounds, and appreciating all of the athletic yet cerebral action on the field.

So when I was able to cover a few baseball related items for the Montreal Gazette last summer, it was such an incredibly proud time in my career as a communications professional.

One of the things that I covered was the Rodger Brulotte story on how he had been approached by a group wanting to bring baseball back to Montreal. We never got any names out of him, and the story died off somewhat.

Then we had the group with Marc Griffin and Eric Gagne trying to build a minor league stadium in conjunction with Baseball Quebec. Many months later, we don't hear much out of them, either.

Now comes Warren, and his infectious passion and eloquence. Are we destined to once again hear nothing for months on end, following his June 1981 Expos celebration? I hope not.

As an impatient person by nature, it's hard to swallow these euphoric baseball city developments, only to once again be disappointed. It's almost like reliving the 1994 season. Such pain.

So two things need to happen here. First, all of these various factions have to get together and be on the same page, working as one cohesive and powerful lobby group. We saw how the Winnipeg Jets were reborn. Wow, that group was a well oiled machine. They brought in the Manitoba Moose, built an arena and then slowly impressed the NHL. Now that's how you resurrect a franchise.

The second aspect is a showcasing of fan passion. The world needs to see the city get excited and really WANT a team back in this market. As it is, the rest of Major League Baseball thinks that no one cares about the game here. Can you blame them? Something viral and magical and proactive has to take place. And I am not so sure any of these baseball factions can make it happen.

Anything's possible, we all know that. But we're looking at a six-run deficit in the bottom of the eighth inning with two outs.

Former Expos broadcasting legend Jacques Doucet is right. The Montreal Baseball Project does risk negatively impacting the Griffin and Gagne efforts. It's my hope that even if these two camps aren't working together, that they can at least cooperate and be kissing cousins.

Finally, I've thought a lot about the Brulotte-protected group trying to bring a major league team back. It just doesn't make any sense at this point why they would not want their names out there. With the current buzz happening, it would behoove them to take advantage of the climate and the people working towards baseball's return, and to go all out. I've often speculated that it's one particular media conglomerate, with multiple platforms to disseminate baseball content on.

Sadly, as the months go by and the curtain is not pulled back for the reveal, I doubt more and more the legitimacy of this group. That's not to say I am not rooting for its existence, ready to support the efforts in any way possible.

Time will tell how this all plays out. All I know is we are sans baseball for another summer and it sucks.

Listen to Game Points with Matthew Ross on TSN 990 Radio in Montreal every Tuesday 9pm-12am and Sunday 6-8pm. Follow on Twitter @TSNmatthew

Could The 2008 Alouettes Draft Class Be One Of The Best Ever In Team History?

Taking a look back at Jim Popp’s illustrious draft history, to date, his best year could be the 2008 class.

The team only had six selections. However, it was quality of those choices that has made this organization a dominant force in the last four years.

Shea Emry, LB, UBC: With their first selection in the opening round Popp chose the B.C. native. Emry has proved his general manager was correct.

He has worked his way up the ladder into a starter’s role, and being the eyes of the defense in making adjustments on the fly. Presently, Emry is considered to be one of the premier non-import CFL players playing at his position.

Furthermore, he has been apart of three Grey Cup teams, winning it twice.

During the 2011 season he suffered an upper body injury. His absence was greatly felt as it altered the game day ratio, and the team struggled to replace him in the lineup for the rest of the year.

It really showed in the East Division semi-final playoff loss to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats as the inexperienced Bear Woods looked uncomfortable in trying to contain Avon Cobourne.

By the time the season starts, he will only be 26 years old. Of course provided he does stay healthy, Emry has many bright years ahead of him to become one of the best at his position.

Andrew Woodruff, OL, Boise State: He was their second round choice and Woodruff is becoming one of the best guards in the league.

He has been apart of two Grey Cup winning teams in Montreal, and was instrumental in playing a big role in the 2010 championship victory.

He has displayed a nasty streak which has aided this line in continuing to be one of the better units in the league. With Scott Flory entering the last stage of his professional career, Woodruff could assume his leadership mantle and carry the torch for many years down the road.

With his ability, the sky’s the limit for him and is on the cusp of receiving league recognition as one of the best.

Paul Woldu, DB, Saskatchewan: Another key contributor from this class who was taken in the fifth round of the draft.

For a Canadian product playing a position that is normally occupied by an import player. Woldu defied expectations as he was able to crack the Alouettes lineup in 2008.

As his career progressed, he was immersed in the game day rotation as special team’s ace, and an all around solid team contributor.

Because of his non-import status, it enabled the team to be more flexible with their ratio status.

Woldu was apart of the three Grey Cup teams, winning it twice with the club. Ironically enough the two victories came against his hometown Saskatchewan Roughriders who he signed with this past offseason.

Even though his Alouettes career has come to an end, it will be the Roughriders who will enjoy his ascension as it seems he is destined to have a more prominent role with his new team.

Luc Brodeur-Jourdain, OL, Laval: With their sixth round selection, this might be the ultimate diamond in the rough in selecting offensive lineman, Luc Brodeur-Jourdain from Laval University.

Historically speaking, the Rouge et Or program is known to be a powerhouse in CIS football winning many Vanier Cups in a short period of time.

However, the bulk of players who move onto the CFL do not pan out. In the case of Brodeur-Jourdain, he has been a revelation to the team’s offensive line.

Coming into the league he converted from a guard to centre. Brodeur-Jourdain has had some big shoes to fill once Bryan Chiu’s announced his retirement from the team on the eve of the 2010 training camp.

He effectively became the full time starting centre midway through the 2010 season and hasn’t looked back. Even though he plays a position that will never be recognized, he has helped paved the way for the likes of Cobourne, and Brandon Whitaker to have successful seasons.

Being a local product, it enables the Alouettes to use him in many marketing campaigns as a role model that the next generation of kids can look up to in hopes of one day playing professional football.

As for the other two selections in Terrence Firr, and Gurminder Thind I contacted the Alouettes media department, and they replied that both did not dress for a game during their time with the team.

The Alouettes can proudly say that that the 2008 class has been instrumental in their recent Grey Cup runs. It has produced four starters which is rarified air considering that a CFL team would be lucky to get one impact player from a class.

The scary part, the players who are still apart of the organization are only getting better, and slowly becoming the next generation of leaders on this football team.

Follow me on Twitter @MoeKhan19

Listen to me every Friday morning on The Midnight Snack from midnight-2am, every Tuesday night on Gamepoints, and various shows on TSN 990.

Photo credit: http://www.npac.ca/

A Look At The Alouettes Draft History, and Their Potential Needs

As the CFL Draft approaches, what are the immediate needs for the Montreal Alouettes?

For an organization that is a perennial contender for the Grey Cup, it is hard to argue that they have any glaring holes on their roster.

Here is the position breakdown of the Alouettes draft choices in the last five years.

OL: 14

DL: 8

LB: 5

DB: 3

WR: 1

QB: 1

K: 1

LS: 1

RB/FB: 1

From the statistical gathering there is no denying that organization’s philosophy is building their non-import content through the trenches on both sides of the football.

Currently, the Alouettes do not posses a first round selection. But it is a solid draft at the skill spots. They could conceivably add at the defensive back and receiver positions.

Through free agency Montreal lost defensive back Paul Woldu to the Saskatchewan Roughriders, and mutually parted ways with receiver Danny Desriveaux. They may look at replacing them through the draft.

Keep in-mind the chances are high that the Alouettes could spend a couple draft picks on the offensive line because they know to win in the CFL this is the most important position.

Finally, Montreal has cupboard full of draft picks that have yet to play. These upcoming selections are luxury choices considering that most if not all of the prospects will immediately not touch the field for the team.

Even though the Alouettes do not posses a first round choice, but they can sit comfortably knowing that there is great value with where they’re positioned.

Follow me on Twitter @MoeKhan19

Listen to me every Friday morning on The Midnight Snack from midnight-2am, every Tuesday night on Gamepoints, and various shows on TSN 990.

Photo Credit: www.sportsfullcircle.com

CFL Mock Draft 2.0

It is time for my second attempt in predicting the first round of the CFL Draft. In my last mock draft, I had Virginia Cavaliers offensive lineman, Austin Pasztor going first overall.

The reaction that I received after my first try was that some prospects would be destined for an NFL tryout. As a result it could drop them down in the draft due to the unknown future if they will ever wear a CFL uniform.

Without further ado, here is my second crack of my CFL mock draft.

Saskatchewan Roughriders: Shamawd Chambers, WR, Laurier: It seems Chambers stock is gaining steam on both sides of the border after his solid E-Camp performance. This wouldn’t be the first time the Roughriders would take a receiver this high in the CFL Draft. In 2006, with the third choice, they selected Andy Fantuz. With Fantuz now in Hamilton, general manager, Brandan Taman needs to fill the big non-import hole. Furthermore, it would give another weapon for quarterback, Darian Durant. Previous Pick: Austin Pasztor, OL, Virginia.

Edmonton Eskimos: Ben Heenan, OL, Saskatchewan: Heenan is an intriguing prospect. There are some pundits who believe Heenan could get a shot in the NFL after an excellent East-West Bowl game in Florida. Moving ahead, yes the Eskimos signed Simeon Rottier. But at the end of the day with a new starting quarterback in Steven Jyles. He will need as much protection until he is comfortable in his new role. Heenan is an excellent run blocker, could make this young line very tough. Previous Pick: Shamawd Chambers, WR, Laurier.

Hamilton Tiger-Cats: Tyrone Crawford, DE, Boise State: Crawford is another player who could be spending time in the NFL. But if he ever ventures up north, it would help fill a need for the Tiger-Cats. Hamilton lost defensive end Justin Hickman to the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts, and released Stevie Baggs. Crawford is a southern Ontario product from nearby Windsor, Ontario, and could generate a local buzz for a team eventually moving into a new stadium. His high motor and blue collar mentality would seamlessly fit in with the Hamilton culture. Previous Pick: Ben Heenan, OL, Saskatchewan.

B.C. Lions: Austin Pasztor, OL, Virginia: Without question he is the best prospect in the draft. But due to the circumstances that Pasztor could be playing professionally in the NFL. His stock might drop. The Lions have never shied away from taking a player with NFL aspirations (see Danny Watkins). Given that general manager, Wally Buono is a patient man. There are not too many immediate needs for the defending champions who are looking to repeat in 2012. Previous Pick: Tyrone Crawford, DL, Boise State.

Calgary Stampeders: Kirby Fabien, OL, Calgary: Even though Fabien did not participate in the bulk of the CFL E-Camp drills. His potential outweighs the unknown of not testing in-front of the team scouts. As stated in the previous mock draft, head coach, and general manager, John Hufnagel knows Fabien well given that they play in the same backyard. The Stampeders offensive line was decimated by injuries, and inability to protect whoever was at quarterback. Fabien could fit the bill and be a long-term player for the offense. Previous pick: Kirby Fabien, OL, Calgary.

Edmonton Eskimos: Frederic Plesius, LB, Laval: I will keep Plesius here, as stated before; the Eskimos have lost a lot of linebacker bodies through free agency. Arguably, Plesius is the most ready prospect to make an immediate contribution to a CFL team through special teams. Some pundits have speculated that he is a bit stiff in pass protection, but with teaching, he could become better at this. Plesius favourite linebacker growing up was former Edmonton great, Willie Pless. He could have the tangibles to become the next solid Canadian linebacker to play with the Eskimos. Previous pick: Frederic Plesius, LB, Laval.

B.C. Lions: Jabar Westerman, DL, Eastern Michigan: Westerman is an intriguing prospect. He comes from a family of football players. As his brother Jamaal is playing for the NFL’s Miami Dolphins. His other brother Jawaan also tested during E-Camp weekend. The Lions lost Aaron Hunt through free agency. Westerman could be a long term project that new head coach Mike Benevides could plug into the middle of the defense once he is ready to go. Keep an eye on Westerman, his size alone could entice general managers take a shot on him. Previous pick: Matt Norman, OL, Western.

Great Value Picks

I still believe McMaster offensive lineman, Jason Medeiros could get a long look as a first round selection. However, if he falls into the second round, a CFL team would be receiving great value.

Medeiros has a nasty streak that blends well with his skill sets. An excellent pass blocker, he is stout at the point of attack. He has displayed a high football IQ playing a position which does not receive any praise.

Ameet Pall is another intriguing prospect. Some experts have said he is undersized. But he has had a stellar career at Wofford University.

A high motor, Pall has an excellent burst in his first step off the line of scrimmage. He has drawn comparisons to the Denver Broncos defensive end Elvis Dumervil given how closely they resemble in physical stature.

Another question, could a CFL team see Pall as an outside linebacker than as a pass rusher?

Finally, keep an eye on Queen’s receiver, Giovanni Aprile. With this being a deep and talented receiving class, Aprile’s stock has definitely moved up the board.

He would immediately play on special teams. Given time to develop, he could eventually become a solid contributor on offense. His hands are underrated, and he ran a respectable 40-yard dash in 4.61 seconds at the E-Camp.

Follow me on Twitter @MoeKhan19

Listen to me every Friday morning on The Midnight Snack from midnight to 2am, every Tuesday night on Gamepoints, and various shows on TSN 990.

Photo credit: http://www.cfl.ca/

Stop The Madness CRTC

First, it was The Super Bowl and now it is March Madness. It has to stop.

It used to bother me Sundays evenings at precisely 7pm during the NFL season and now it is irritating because it is eroding my joy of watching big time sports events.

It does not affect my love of Canada nor what it does to support all things Canadian on the airwaves, but it is time for it to go.

You ask, what is “it” that I’m speaking of. The simultaneous substitution policy of the Canadian Radio-television & Telecommunications Commission, in short, the CRTC. The government agency that prevents people from seeing the U.S. ads during the Super Bowl broadcast because of an outdated approach to support broadcast and advertising industries in Canada. Basically, the policy forces Canadians to watch only the feed from the Canadian broadcast rights holders. As a result, it takes away the choice of viewers to select which channel to watch programming from its original broadcast source.

It is one thing to force viewers to watch average Canadian television ad spots but when the CRTC dictates which commentators and analysts I SHOULD watch and listen to, it is B.S.

Part of being a sports fan is the ability to consume the descriptions, analysis and thoughts of the best play-by-play broadcasters, analysts and interviews available. I thought I was going to get that as I sat down to watch the Final Four of the NCAA Men’s basketball tournament. I was looking forward to:

• The insights from Greg Anthony, Kenny Smith and Sir Charles Barkley broadcasting on onsite at the Super Dome. Instead, I was forced to listen takes from a studio based out of Toronto.
• One of the best play-by-play guys in the business, Jim Nantz and the excitable, Clark Kellogg call both games. Instead, I watched some generic broadcast from ESPN (Not even Dickie V was not a part of the broadcast duo.) I could not recognize the voices so I watched both games with the volume down so I can draft this post.
  

Again, I support all-things Canadian but not to the extent that I’m forced to watched second rate production of sports television. The fact that the CTRC takes away my option to enjoy broadcasters that are synonymous with NCAA with my tax dollars is just ridiculous and unacceptable.

Final Thoughts

• Support The Cro. If you are a Expo fan, it is time to step up and support Warren Cromartie and his Montreal Baseball Project due to be launched April 4th, 2012. Visit the initiative's Facebook page and give it a "Like" if you have any affinity to the Montreal Expos. I'm sure that a huge amount of "Likes" will somehow lead to financial and / or sponsorship support of the initiative. From one gapped-toothed black man to other, thanks Cro for your efforts and let's do this thang...
• Rolling Thunder. Man, the Oklahoma City Thunder are fun to watch. In one week, the team took care of the Lakers in L.A. and toyed with the Miami Heat. If they can go into Miami on Wednesday night and beat the Heat, talks of winning multiple championships can begin in OKC instead of in South Beach.

Follow me on @sportstaughts