I caught a bit of the Packer-Knight show, "Survive and Advance", and I have to say that I was rather impressed. The two had on Isiah Thomas and Quinn Buckner, and the group discussed a lot of Tournament related topics, but none more interesting than the story of the 1981 Championship Game, and how it was almost postponned. Ronald Reagan was shot earlier in the day on March 30th, 1981, and both Knight and Thomas recalled the events of the day....

All My Children, huh Isiah? That explains a lot. Seriously though, the show was actually pretty entertaining, and the breakdown of the best players at each position in the Tournament, was extremely informative. Billy Packer even laughs during the show!

Check it out if you get a chance. It's on every Sunday, throughout the Tourney, at midnight.

I knew I spoke too soon yesterday, when I said that Billy Packer seemed to have graduated to a new level of analyst. While his spirits definitely seem better, and he seems to enjoy breaking down the game again, he still hasn't bought into this whole "technology" thing. Packer was on the "Best Damn Podcast" (ITunes link) yesterday, and not only did he admit to still not owning a computer, AND not knowing what Wikipedia is, but that he actually "hired a psychic to help find the weapons in the OJ Simpson murder case". I wish I was kidding....

Best Damn Podcast: "At the bottom of the page it has these random facts, the golf courses in reverse is one of them and then another one, it says you hired a psychic to find the murder weapon in the OJ Murder case."

Billy Packer: "That is correct....John Monte.

BDP: "And whatever happened?"

BP: "He found the weapons. And we uh...he claimed he found them. And so uh, we basically went to the LA Police Department, said John knows where the weapons are, and at that point this is about a week after the murders. And so, at that point the Police Department said, we can't take the chance that if he starts digging stuff up, that the press heard about this we'd be in serious trouble. So we had to put it on hold. But it was a great experience."

Wow. You learn something new everyday, don't you. I've been doing this site for almost three years now, and I can't remember ever hearing that story. Good fact checking work there, Best Damn Podcast. Be sure to check out the rest of the interview through the ITunes link below!

Billy Packer Interview - ITunes (Best Damn Podcast)

One of the more anticipated (and controversial) things to debut this March is, Billy Packer and Bob Knight's newest endeavor, "Survive and Advance". I was curious to see what the duo had planned, and as it turns out, the site is actually pretty informative and entertaining. There is obviously a bracket contest, but on top of that they've added videos, trivia and an online talk show. Here are some quotes by Knight and Packer on the site, and one of the videos they put together on Magic Johnson....

Billy Packer: "I first thought about this project years ago, and I wanted a way to expand my ability to communicate my love of basketball beyond what I could do while broadcasting games all those years. Even though I am not technically savvy I wanted to use this website to work in conjunction with our upcoming Fox SportsNet TV show to help us reach out to as many fans as possible. Frank Sinatra said I did it "my way," and though I am not him, I'm doing this multi-platform project my way, and this is something I have planned on for a few years now and I always wanted to do with my good friend Bob Knight."

Bob Knight: "I am very excited about working on this project with Billy. In all the years that he has worked on NCAA basketball I have always been very impressed with his insight into the game and his ability to tell the viewing audience what's going on in the game and why it's happening. I have great respect for his knowledge of the game and think the two of us doing something together will be enjoyable and informative for the audience and that's what we intend to do here."

Looking through the videos, it seems like this might be the direction and change that Packer needed. He always had a great Basketball mind, but over the years he got more and more surly, and seemingly disinterested in the Sport. I think this is the perfect venue for him, and he already seems more relaxed and focused on sharing his views with fans.

The "Talk Show" portion airs Sundays at Midnight, starting March 15th (Selection Sunday), and will be on FSN. I'll be sure to get video up of the first show as well.

Bob Knight and Billy Packer are causing quite a stir in the Sports World since announcing the details surrounding their new FSN show, "Survive and Advance". USA Today spoke with a former gambling addict, and she says that program's locale is saying it's okay for College kids to bet on games....

"The NCAA should have enough clout to stop something like this. It sends the message to (college) kids it's OK to do this," complains Arnie Wexler, a recovering compulsive gambler who runs a gambling hotline.

"They're setting themselves up for a scandal. Who knows how many college students are going to bet on these games? I'm sure some athletes will bet too. What kind of message are we sending by running a show like this? The whole thing is sick."

Keith Whyte, executive director of the National Council on Problem Gambling, says the show flies in the face of the NCAA's anti-gambling stance. "This is really an issue for the NCAA. There's a contradiction between their zero-tolerance gambling approach — and the reality that most Americans do gamble."

The unfortunate thing, is that a hell of a lot of Americans do gamble on Sports, and there's nothing that can really be done to change that. Especially when you consider that banning online gambling in the U.S. did absolutely nothing to curtail it. FSN promises that the show will have nothing to do with betting, but young kids are impressionable, and all of the lines posted and people walking around with betting slips won't go unnoticed.

Hell, College is when I started gambling, and I'm sure that's the case for most people my age. I'm not for telling grownups what to do, but FSN might want to think about changing the location of the show.

Vegas venue raises eyebrows for Knight-Packer show (USA Today)

So all day yesterday the World waited as Billy Packer and Bob Knight prepared for a groundbreaking announcement. I honestly though it was going to be something unimportant, but it turns out to actually be something of substance. The two are teaming together for Fox Sports, and are planning on doing an hour show on March Madness right from the Sportsbook at the Wynn in Vegas. Via PR Newswire....

Wynn Las Vegas Race & Sports Book will host Billy Packer and Bob Knight's "Survive and Advance," a series of five one-hour tournament television programs analyzing the 2009 NCAA National Championship. Packer and Knight have teamed up to develop the ultimate men's college basketball tournament platform that includes broadcast television, interactive TV, fantasy leagues, computer games and the Internet.

"Survive and Advance" is scheduled to air on FSN (Fox Sports Net) at 12 a.m. local, directly following the basketball games on March 15, March 22, March 29, April 3 and April 5. The one-hour program will feature live commentary from the hosts and their top-tier guests including coaches, former players and well-known personalities. The shows will re-air throughout the week (check local listings). FSN is the nation's leading provider of local sports and reaches more than 80 million homes across the U.S.

In addition to their arrangement with Wynn Las Vegas to host the television shows, Packer and Knight are also teaming to develop an interactive web platform. The interactive platform will feature custom games and a website, including news, analysis, blogs, video, and other original content. Packer said, "this initiative will enable fans to experience the best college basketball tournament coverage across multiple media vehicles."

Well that's quite an interesting/random pairing, isn't it? I can't imagine the two being able to calmly put on a show with a thousand drunk gamblers hanging all over them, but I wish them luck. Actually, that's a lie....I want it to be a trainwreck. I'll be sure to have video(s) up in March.

Wynn Las Vegas to Host Billy Packer and Bob Knight's 'Survive and Advance,' a Series of Tournament TV Shows

Since I've started this site many people have lost their posts with various networks. I never really took joy in say Theismann being replaced on MNF, or Salisbury getting the ax, but I have to say that today I'm pretty happy with this move. For the second year in a row CBS has decided to make an amazingly smart decision for it's March Madness broadcast (last year it was Gus Johnson in the Sweet Sixteen) and they've replaced 34-year veteran Billy Packer.

Not only is Packer bumped from the main team, but according to the Miami Herald he is gone from CBS College Basketball entirely....

College basketball commentator Billy Packer, who has announced 34 consecutive Final Fours on network television and created a few controversies along the way, will not be returning to CBS for a 28th season, The Miami Herald has learned.

CBS has decided to replace Packer, 68, with studio analyst Clark Kellogg on its lead announcing team.

An announcement is expected Monday, but CBS representative Leslie Anne Wade confirmed the story Sunday night.

CBS believed the time was right for a change and that Kellogg deserved a chance to work with Jim Nantz on the lead team.

Packer, who had been going year to year with his contract, confirmed through a CBS official Sunday that he no longer will broadcast for the network but is pursuing other projects in basketball. Packer declined to comment further.

In all honesty, I can't believe he lasted this long. He was like the "Teflon Don" of Broadcasting. None of his controversial acts were ever punished because (and I'm just assuming here) they brought viewers to the Tournament. Only now, just three months after Packer told people to change the channel during the Final Four because the Tar Heels were down 20, is he being let go. This business continues to amaze me everyday.

As far as Kellogg as the replacement....umm, maybe I shouldn't say anything and just enjoy this for now. Yeah that's what I'll do. Never look a gift horse in the mouth.

CBS set to replace Packer (Miami Herald)
It's Time CBS, Get Someone Other Than Billy Packer (Awful Announcing)

I said it last month and apparently the remove Packer from CBS movement is gaining steam. According to the NY Daily News he might be removed for his ridiculous statements in the Final Four....

CBS is paying $6 billion for the right to air the tourney over the life of its contract with the NCAA. From a business perspective, telling viewers to turn off the TV is not a great idea, especially in a soft advertising market.

Naming a "winner" with plenty of time left in a game does not sit well with corporations paying top dollar to advertise their products during the tournament. Some of these same companies will be asked to purchase time on next year's tourney.

Not only did Packer prematurely turn the lights off - the Tar Heels eventually cut the gap to four points before losing 84-66 - but a few days later in USA Today, he poured salt on the wound.

Packer portrayed himself as an ethical realist just dealing with what he was seeing on the court.

"The integrity of the sport is more important than any promotion for television," Packer told USA Today.

I've said it before and I'll say it again. Billy Packer is a cancer to CBS. The guy has called a black player a monkey, made sexist remarks on-air about a female player, used the term fag during an on-air interview, and even told a woman worker at Cameron Indoor Stadium, "Since when do we let women control who gets into a men's basketball game? Why don't you go find a women's game to let people into?" Every single time CBS defends the guy and for what?

All of the sexist, racist and idiotic remarks take a backseat to the guy losing the network millions of dollars. Either way.....it's time to make the move CBS.

Billy Packer can't dance around the stir at CBS (NY Daily News)
CBS Suits Seriously Considering Packer Ouster? (Sports by Brooks)
It's Time CBS, Get Someone Other Than Billy Packer (Awful Announcing)

Look, I understand that he has called more Championship games than virtually any other announcer, but if you can't see that he takes away from every broadcast CBS, I don't know what to tell you. Everyone who reads the site on a regular basis knows which commentators rub me the wrong way. Take Emmitt Smith for example. For all of the idiotic things that he says you can't say that he doesn't love the game of Football. I can't say the same about Billy Packer. He questions teenage players and coaches during games, he makes up story lines and he pats himself on the back when he's right.

He's like no one that's ever covered a Sport before. He's like Bob Knight without the insight. You don't have to be Gus Johnson to impress the viewing public if you don't want to. You can be Ron Franklin, Keith Jackson, or even Mike Tirico. You hear him say all the time that he's "not there to impress anyone", well f**k that....yes you are. You're supposed to know more than me, you're supposed to provide me with things I wouldn't normally notice. Sure Packer does this on occasion (the Kansas Box and 1 from last night), but when you do so you don't need to gloat and tell us how right you were.

Let's go to last night's game. Packer started calling for Kansas to start jacking up threes with three minutes left in the game. Three minutes and down eight! When a Kansas player (Arthur I think) hit a nice jumper inside the 3-point line with 1:30 left with his team down six he called it, "the worst shot you can take in Basketball at this time". Are you kidding me? Kansas was playing against arguably the worst free throw shooting team in the Tournament. How did that work out for them?

I honestly don't want anyone to lose their job and I never get joy out of such things. When Joey Sunshine got axed from Monday Night Football I actually felt really bad for him. There's a difference between someone who actually cares about their job but isn't good on television and someone who doesn't respect the fact that they have the best job in the world. It's beyond ridiculous now and I think that CBS only sticks with him because of the press gained from the hate surrounding him come Tournament time.

That's not a good reason to keep him if you ask me. I also know that he doesn't care what I have to say, but just realize that I'm not alone. Here are the commenters thoughts.....
____________________________

"I don't know how CBS continues to employ Packer. He is way too critical of these young athletes most of the time. All he does is criticize and point out the mistakes of the players and coaches. I'm all in favor of being critical at appropriate times, but kids 18-22 do not deserve to that blowhard whining at their every move."- Jerome

"I can handle Packer's criticisms (which are often valid) if he didn't consistently beat them into the ground. In the UCLA-Memphis game, Rose was flying by Collison in the first half and Packer correctly pointed out how Rose was too strong for Collison. Perfectly fair. But in the second half, UCLA made adjustments and Rose made very few shots (he shot under 50% for the game). Yet Billy continues to cite how nobody can stay with Rose even as he's missing shot after shot. Last night, as Packer said for the 100th time how Rose was making it too easy for Kansas to guard him, did it occur to him that since he had been sick all day Sunday, maybe Rose was conserving his energy for the second half? And how can you not put together the fact that Rose went off when Kansas went to the box and one on CDR?"- Anon

"Packer was just plain bad. His calling the UNC v. KU game over with 7:32 to go in the first half was insanity. Last night he was insisting on 3's from KU with two minutes to go - when it clearly wasn't necessary. Then, when Memphis was down late in OT he was criticising them for trying 3's. What?"- Mal

"Packer wanted Kansas to start jacking up threes with three minutes left to play. This was after he griped most of the second half that they weren't pounding it inside. I'm glad he's not coaching my team. Worse yet, he took credit for telling them to shoot those threes as the overtime began. If I recall correctly, Kansas took and made two in that stretch--the one in the corner of the steal and the one by Chalmers to tie. And does he not know that the clock was not running when Rose was letting the ball roll toward half court? At least twice he told us that Rose was wasting too much time by not advancing the ball. The clock wasn't running you bitter, bitter man!"- Anon

"My biggest issue with Billy is that at times it seems like he's auditioning to be a head coach. For instance, in the second half Billy made it clear numerous times that he thought Memphis should stop setting screens for Rose. Mentioning it 2 or 3 times is enough, but Nantz and Packer kept bringing it up every time Memphis set a screen for Rose. Yeah, we get it Billy, you disagree with the philosophy there. This happens a lot during his games and it's terribly annoying. Do I want his insight? absolutely. Is he right sometimes? Absolutely. But the focus of the telecast should not be on Billy Packer's strategies, and all too often it is."- Bryan

"I truly appreciate Packer pointing out it was 2 possession game when down 5 points. That's the kind of insight I'm looking for from an analyst."- Anon

"Packer is so self-absorbed he is ridiculous. Packer makes some good commentary - but his "I wouldn't do that" stuff is toooo much."- Mark

"The whole game it was here is how I would do things better than you. If Packer was such a good coach, he wouldn't be sitting in the press row."- Anon

"My biggest gripe is Packer and Nantz are always reminiscing about some game in the past. That's fine in a blowout. But with four minutes left in a close national title game, maybe you should focus on the action in front of you -- instead of talking about 1973."- Anon

"Packer is all reaction. Someone does something and Packer tells us if it was good or bad, right or wrong. It's insulting, not just because of his tone but because we can see what just happens. But the best color men are the ones who can entertain while predicting and analyzing how the action is going to develop."- Doc
_______________________________

To be fair some liked him last night and I did for the better part of the first half, but something switches in his brain at the end of close games and he becomes a joke of an analyst. Someone who says, "Kansas has been in overtime games before. The 1957 championship against UNC," as a reason for how Kansas will be prepared for an extra period is just downright bad.

I really don't want either of them calling the final game after the best month in Sports, but if you really want Nantz you can keep him. Please just relegate Packer to a first weekend team with Tim Brando so I can enjoy the end of the Tournament again.

[/soapbox]

"Rock, Chalk, Championship!" (Awful Announcing)

Yep. Jim Nantz doesn't prepare these things ahead of time at all. With that established I thought that Nantzy did a pretty great job tonight. During the Chalmers three he finally showed raw emotion and let himself go. It only took an overtime game in the National Championship but it still happened. My advice to you Jim, remember that feeling and try to relive it.

Billy Packer is another subject that I'll delve into tomorrow morning. Until then, enjoy your ultra extended highlight edition of the final moments of the 2008 National Championship......

If you have any thoughts on Nantz and Packer leave them in the comments and I'll be sure to credit you in the review coming later today. Great game.

Kansas vs. Memphis
9:21 PM ET, April 7, 2008
Alamodome, San Antonio, TX (CBS)
Announcers: Jim Nantz and Bill Packer
Spread: Memphis -2, O/U 148

The Championship is finally upon us after a month of madness, and this matchup should be great one. Both teams love to run and this game could ultimately get up into the 80s if each team's stars are on their game tonight. Should be fun. I'll see you around 9pm tonight for the open thread. Feel free to leave your predictions and thoughts in the comments below.

AA's Picks- Memphis -2, MVP: CDR, Final Score: Memphis 78-Kansas 72
______________________________

While you're waiting for the game to start feel free to create a caption for the Photo of the Day......


Picks via Anon....

John Clayton-Memphis
John Kruk-Memphis
J.A. Adande-Kansas
Buster Olney-Memphis
Hubert Davis-Kansas
Dick Vitale-Memphis
Bob Knight-Memphis
Digger Phelps-Memphis
Jay Bilas-Kansas

Strange exchange on the ESPN pregame show. They're talking about defense, so Knight starts waxing poetic about defending the Alamo, and he wraps up by saying, "They played 13 days of defense; they only need 40 minutes." (Via WM)

Thank god Larry Brown is there. We needed another Coach to talk about....well coaching.

"I've written all kinds of stuff that I posted in the locker room."- Bob Knight

Hahaha....that's too funny.

"Can I play for you?"- Dick Vitale
"No."- Bob Knight

"Can we get back in this century please?!"- Jay Bilas

"I think will decide it is what you have on card number 732 here, and that's protecting the ball."- Jay Bilas

Man he is testy today.

"My game changer is going to be defense."- Bob Knight

Ummm....it was supposed to be a person, but okay. Wow and Shelley Smith just completely botched that live piece. Hilarious.

"A confluence of dreams and hopes and ultimately a Championship!"- Jim Nantz

Yeah that wasn't prepared at all. Hello friends!

At least they played the National Anthem...20 minutes before tip-off and during Two And A Half Men. (Via Anon)

Gotta love it and the CBS Studio Team is still in NYC. Good move CBS.

"They've been salivating all Tournament long and Pavlov just rang the bell again."- Greg Gumbel on Davis and Kellogg

Sam Ryan is just downright gorgeous. So the WKU buzzer beater was the Pontiac game changing performance and it got them a $100K contract. Being a Pontiac owner I can safely say that they could have afforded more.

Oooh I like the signatures during the player introductions. Nice touch CBS.


Here we go.....Memphis gets the tip and Dorsey hits the first shot of the game and then Rush gets blasted by Anderson. Good foul though as Rush hits one out of two.

Having Nantz announce the lineups is one of the dumbest ideas I've ever seen. It all but kills any excitement for the game. (Via Anon)

Agreed. It would probably be cool with any other announcer though. Well besides Joe Buck. Rose....and one. 9-3 Memphis early. Hi Shelley Smith! Are you ready for your spotlight???

And that's our first TV Timeout. Pretty crazy pace in the early going. Memphis with the "Dolly Parton" early. Shaka Kaun....Shaka Kaun, Shaka Kaun, Shaka Kaun....on the oop.

Why in the holy hell is Ed Hightower officiating the national title game? (Via Matt)

That's a good question. I think the NCAAs have a system where the top rated officials in each round go on to the next. I could be wrong though. CDR hits a circus shot and Memphis is back up by two. Taggart picks up two quick fouls and he's heading back to the bench. We're tied again at the under 12.

"Memphis, with the big lead of 6, but we're tied."- Jim Nantz (Via Andrew)

"He gave him a little lingo."- Billy Packer after Dorsey's dunk

Dozier hits a three after another Kansas run and the KU lead is 3 at the under eight TV timeout. Intense game.

"They said it was impossible for all four number one seeds to make the Final Four but they also said it was impossible to get real Coke taste and zero calories."- Jim Nantz

Roy Williams is a traitor (Traitor! Traitor!) and wearing a KU button. And CDR hits a three to give Memphis the lead again after an amazing Dorsey block. Collins hits a tough floater and we're tied again. Dorsey is arguing a call and just gave up on defense there. Not a heady play. 5 minutes left.

CDR again! He's got thirteen and we're tied....again.

Roy Williams is like the guy who gets married but keeps showing up at his ex-girlfriend's workplace. (Via Thermocaster)

"Where is Derek Rose?"- Jim Nantz

Good point. He hasn't taken a shot in forever and has about four turnovers at this point. 3 point Kansas lead with 1:43 to go. Really bad offensive set by Memphis at the end of the half and they're down 5 at the half.

33-28. So much for the high scoring affair that I predicted.

And we're baaaaack! Band shot....drink. Memphis gets the ball to start the 2nd half. And just like that we're tied.

"He's like the quiet assassin."- Billy Packer

As opposed to the loud one? Also, can someone explain to me what Joey Dorsey is doing? He's playing like an idiot right now. Kansas by one at the under 16 TV timeout. Crazy start to the half.

You know, for everything else wrong about him, Billy Packer really does do a great job of quickly getting away from the different promos that Nantz reads, which all too often Nantz seems to be too excited about. (Via Willmott)

I agree but he's also not calling out Joey Dorsey for acting like a g'damn idiot this game. Everyone can see he's loafing and pouting every play and they haven't mentioned it once.

"I'm going to start giving some credit to the Kansas defenders."- Billy Packer

Yeah they're holding Rose to nothing....you think you should? Rush looks good and should probably be getting more touches. Kansas breaks out the Box and 1 and Packer is all over it.....about three trips down the floor too late.

"Both coaches met their wives in, of all places, Lawrence, Kansas."- Jim Nantz (Via Mal)

Wow. Way to just insult every Kansan in one comment. Also, here's your turning point. Kansas decides to switch to the box and one with 8 minutes left, leaving Memphis with the open threes they haven't seen all game. Tigers up two.

Rose is heating up....forget that. He's heated. 12, 5, and 7 right now.

Kansas is shooting 3's tonight about as good as Chuck shoots tiny hoops. Chuck - he's such an idiot. (Via Mal)

Hahahaha....now that's funny.

"He's so much more effective with no screens."- Billy Packer as Rose bricks a shot

Okay, Billy I take it back. In the open court Rose drives and gets the and one on a circus shot. The kid is taking over.

Memphis really does have the ugliest band in America. I need some eye bleach and a picture of the UCLA cheerleaders after seeing that group. (Via Thermocaster)

I know and they only show them. Is Kansas' band not there? Hack a Memphis is in play with Kansas down seven with 2 minutes left. Dozier to the line.

"Bangs them both. Nine point bulge now."- Jim Nantz

"That's the worst shot you can take in Basketball at this time. One foot out and you've got a three."- Billy Packer

Okaaaaay. There's two minutes left and you're putting arugably the worst free throw shooting team in America on the line. Now Billy is asking for a three down six with 1:30 left. I would hate for him to be the coach of my team.

Kansas fouling technique works and after a CDR miss they cut it to two. Here we go. No fouling now.

Wow....wow. That should/could have been a technical. I never knew that it mattered who you were mad at when spiking the ball Billy Packer.

OHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! OT! Super Nintendo Chalmers!!!!

Kansas is up two early on a B Rush layup and Arthur throws an oop down. They do that play about 10 times a game. An Anderson missed three and KU has this in control with 3 left.

I can't even keep up and enjoy the game so everyone just watch and we'll sort this out afterwards with videos and comments. Amazing.

"ROCK CHALK CHAMPIONSHIP!"- Jim Nantz

Dammit....can't believe I didn't think of that one!!!! Chalmers is your MOP and I'll start getting the videos up soon. Awesome end of the game.

"Rock, Chalk, Championship Jayhawks!" (Via SS Reporters)

WINNAH!

UCLA vs. Memphis (6:07pm)- Jim Nantz and Billy Packer (Spread: Memphis -2)
UNC vs. Kansas (8:47pm)- Jim Nantz and Billy Packer (Spread: UNC -4)

The Final Four is finally upon us and I'll once again be absent. I plan on making up for all the absences this Monday night though for the Open Thread to end all open threads. Until then...feel free to add your picks and our quotes in the comments and I'll piece through them tomorrow.

Enjoy the games! (Also is it weird to anyone else that the CBS team is New York still? Odd. Oh well.)

Picks:

Jay- UCLA and Kansas
Hubert- Memphis and UNC
Dick- UCLA and UNC
Bob- Memphis and UNC
Digger- Memphis and UNC
AA- Memphis and UNC

Texas vs. Memphis (Houston, 2:20pm)- Jim Nantz and Billy Packer
Kansas vs. Davidson (Detroit, 5:05pm)- Gus Johnson and Len Elmore

Sorry for the delay in getting the post up today, but I'm in for the long haul now. Memphis seems to be well in control of this game and radio play-by-play man Brad Sham seemed none too happy about it. Let me know what I missed.

So apparently Jay Bilas really like Tyler Hansbrough and Dick Enberg said rape at some point. I'm going to have to go back and watch that game again.

I hate this...I had Texas winning it all. (Via SS Reporters)

I had Stanford in the Championship soooooooo. Also, what's with all of the dead air today. Nantz can't seem to come up with anything to talk about.

Nantz: "I think Texas should begin the hacking process." The hacking process for Nantz & Packer starts when they speak. (Via Anon)

"If they were going to go into the hack a Shaq then they would have had to of done it a lot earlier."- Billy Packer

They started with like six minutes left. When would you have like them to start Billy? At the start of the half???

"This is going to be a long three minutes here."- Billy Packer

Tell us about it Billy.

"You don't want to start annoying your own fans."- Billy Packer on Rick Barnes fouling down 16 with 40 seconds left.

Speaking of ESPN, tonight's Sunday Conversation has Rece Davis interviewing Knight, Parcells and LaRussa. Could you all join me in prayer for a well-placed meteor. (Via Mal)

Seriously. I saw the press release last week and didn't even want to bother posting on it. I like how TBL called them "The Grump, The Meanie, and The Drunk".

Okay now the fun starts.....Let's go Cats! And Bill Self is making substitutions two minutes into the game.

"Rush, Rise and Fire."- Gus Johnson

That never gets old.

"The scoreboard has gone blank right now Davidson and Kansas have yet to score a point according to the scoreboard. It's been a slow pace, but not that slow."- Gus Johnson

The under for the first half is a mortal lock. (Via Ed)

Winnah!

"Curry again....RING IT."- Gus Johnson

That drive was ridiculous. The kid has 8 points in a minute.

Did Gus just say, "The white lobster" when that whitey chucked a trey bomb? (Via Brett)

Yeah, it's the kid's nickname for some reason.

"Kansas goes to the zone. Looks like a box and one."- Gus Johnson

See. He doesn't just yell. He's insightful too.

"As Anderson Hunt, Anderson Anderson, Antonio Anderson banks in a three."- Clark Kellogg

Where is Anderson Hunt these days?

*Turns off TV during requisite Hansbrough interview* (Via Anon)

At the beginning of the second half, they put the bracket on screen. Instead of Xavier, it read Xaveir. Nice work CBS. (Via Daniel)

Yep they sure did.....



"White Lobster, because he's from Maine! That's what they call him."- Gus Johnson (Via Anon)

"OH! The White Lobster is cookin'!"- Gus Johnson

(15) American (21-11) vs (2) Tennessee (29-4) 12:15 PM East (Birmingham): Verne Lundquist and Bill Raftery
(10) Davidson (26-6) vs (7) Gonzaga (25-7) 12:25 PM Midwest (Raleigh): Jim Nantz and Billy Packer
(10) St. Mary's (CA) (25-6) vs (7) Miami (FL) (22-10) 12:30 PM South (Little Rock): Ian Eagle and Jim Spanarkel
(12) Western Kentucky (27-6) vs (5) Drake (28-4) 12:30 PM West (Tampa): Tim Brando and Mike Gminski

Yet another day of action is upon us and hopefully there will be more drama today. I've got the American-Tenn game to start the day so if anyone else gets Packer and Nantz fill me in on the quotes in the comments.

Cheers everyone!
________________________

"American goes....MANTOMAN!"- Bill Raftery

Camera angles have been odd in Birmingham. Wide angles then zooming in and back out again. Fortunately, the camera hasn't been focused on Stuart Scott. (Via Mal)

The best transcription I can come up with off MMOD, Bill Raftery: "And American goes muhrmhmuh." (Via Thomspson)

Much better.

"Davidson with the longest winning streak in the America."- Jim Nantz

Who is he Ms. South Carolina (and such as)?

Billy Packer might be the Cloverfield monster in HD. (Via Mez)

"Curry took it back door."- Billy Packer

We might need to rid ourselves of that phrase. Also, Nantz is barely even talking in the first few moments of this game.

"That was Frank Gordon with the find."- Verne Lundquist
"To Gilmore."- Bill Raftery
"Yes. Made him happy."- Verne Lundquist
"I've heard you say that on occasion."- Bill Raftery
"Thanks for the setup. Adam Sandler is smiling."- Verne Lundquist
"Who the heck?"- Bill Raftery
"Who the heck is Happy Gilmore?"- Verne Lundquist

Wow...that was an epic exchange.

"The band playing Rocky Top at 7:30 in the morning"- Verne Lundquist
"It's not easy on the road."- Bill Raftery

Ha...that has to suck if you're trying to sleep in.

I'm pretty sure I'm the only man in America watching First Take right now, but I'm 99% sure Ryan Dempster just said "bitchin'." (Via Austin)

That's bitchin' that they let him.

"I've never met anyone who believed in reincarnation that didn't come back as a prince or a king. Nobody came back as a day laborer."- Verne Lundquist

What is he talking about?

"I think it's been like both teams are running around in deep snow."- Jim Spanarkel

AA - Verne and Bill were talking about JP Prince and his basketball family. Which led Verne - somehow - to a reincarnation rant. (Via Mal)

Well that explains everything.

"He traveled on the pass before the pass."- Jim Nantz

"Both teams playing behind the 3-point line."- Mike Gminski
"I know you take that personally."- Tim Brando

"Siakam with the deuce."- Tim Brando

Another term we should think about getting rid of.

OK - have you seen the promo for the new CBS show "Secret Talents of the Stars"? It has George Takei as a country singer. Oh my. (Via Mal)

That's scary.

"I think they got Nichols from the rear."- Bill Ratery

"If American is going to win, they are going to have to get a lot of smooth miles out of this Carr (Garrison Carr)".- Bill Raftery (Via Mal)

Okay, Stephen Curry (40 points?!?!?! and 30 of them in the 2nd Half?!?) is amazing and my brackets are officially cooked. I feel like this guy....



WOW, Adam Morrison lookin good. Now he's too much of an NBA hardass to cry, so at least we don't have to worry about that (who am I kidding, he'll probably start balling). (Via Joe D)

There was a blind item in a Teddy Greenstein column over at the Chicago Tribune today that caught Sports by Brooks and my eye(s) today. Apparently people have been questioning CBS as to whether or not this is Billy Packer's last NCAA Tournament. CBS is denying that it is, but where the hell did this come from? I hadn't seen it anywhere until today....

This just in:

A CBS Sports spokeswoman shot down a rumor that this would be Billy Packer's last NCAA tournament. It will be Packer's 34th Final Four....

That's it. That's all it says. I love Teddy Greenstein, but I personally would love a little background there. (On a side note, I haven't really been THAT annoyed by Packer this year. He wasn't as bad on the ACC Tournament compared to years past.)

I've really been making an effort to stay away from the whole Blogs vs. MSM thing (who really cares in the long run), which is why I didn't address Bob Costas' comments, but this item got me thinking....where are all of these blogs that start rumors? I think I wrote about one when the whole Herbstreit-Michigan thing can up, but that was just a joke. I can really think of only one major blog that regularly features rumors, but most of those seem to pan out. I think both mediums do their fair share of rumor milling, don't you?

New To Us: “Rumor” Packer Getting Pushed Out? (Sports by Brooks)
Blackhawks near deal to televise all 82 games (Chicago Tribune)

The other thread was getting a bit long so I'm throwing up another one for the ESPN and CBS coverage of the bracket "reveal". I'll probably be on CBS most of the time so if Bobby Knight looks like he's going to lose it, lemme know in the comments.

Amazing win by Georgia and that video should be up shortly right below this post. Just 5 minutes to go! John Calipari seems much calmer going into the Selection Show this year doesn't he?

ESPN says they're releasing the brackets at 5:59 PM. Didn't they learn their lesson from the MLB All-Star game? (Via Paco The Storytelling Mule)

Well it's past that time and Linda Cohn is still yammering about the SEC Title Game....

#1 overall is UNC in the East, Memphis goes to the South, West is UCLA and Midwest is Kansas....no surprises there. UNC would play Kansas and Memphis would go up against UCLA.

Jim Nantz: a comb-over unlike any other. (Via Mal)

We've got Amercian, Tenn, Baylor, Xavier, ND, USC, Temple, Mason, and WVU as our live look-ins on CBS.

Bobby Knight does not like Conference Championships AT ALL!

East Highlights: UNC gets the play-in game, Arkansas is in against Indiana, Notre Dame gets Mason (Upest!), Washington State takes on Winthrop (Upset!), Vols are the #2 Seed in the East, BUTLER IS A SEVEN SEED!!!!!!!!!, South Alabama gets in, Louisville is the three seed, St. Joes is in and will face Oklahoma.

Well that just about takes care of every bubble team and Butler got seriously screwed by having to go up against South Alabama in Birmingham.

Midwest Highlights: Kansas gets Portland State, UNLV-Kent State will be a great game, Clemson is a #5 seed and will meet Nova (amazing game), Vandy is a #4, Georgetown is a #2?!?!, Gonzaga meets Davidson (another great game), Wisconsin is a #3 (hosed), USC-Kansas State (Beasley vs Mayo).

No way GTown should be a two seed over Wisconsin. Sorry. Weak bracket but very good first round matchups.

"Siena very dangerous. I like them to beat Vandy."- Seth Davis

Knight's nose resembles Coughlin's during the Green Bay game. He's either been out in the freezing cold or slugging down the Jack Daniel's in order to put up with these guys. (Via Mal)

Committee leakage!!!! Lunardi TOTALLY got a tip. Villanova my butt. (Via Ed)

Washington State at a 4 is patently ridiculous. It seems like they're ALWAYS overseeded. (Steve B.)

South Highlights: Oregon gets in against Miss State, MSU gets a five seed and Temple, Pitt gets the four and Oral Roberts, Texas is the two seed, Miami is in as a #7 and will take on Saint Mary's (Upset!), Stanford is a three, Marquette the #6 and will take on the Kentucky Wildcats (bulls**t).

Sorry VCU, Arizona, Baylor, Arizona State....there's only one spot left and I think it's going to Virginia Tech.

Georgia video is up below this post.

West Highlights: UCLA is the one, BYU gets A&M in the 8/9, Drake is a five seed?!? and will take on WKU, UConn is the four and gets SD (VT is out), Duke is the two and they get Belmont, WVU is in as a #7 and get #10 Arizona (Bulls**t), Xavier is the three and gets the unlucky matchup against Georgia, Baylor is in (bulls**t) and they'll play Purdue.

Okay....I'm sorry but Baylor, Oregon, Arizona especially as a 10 seed, and Kentucky all in over Virginia Tech is just nonsense. I feel bad for Hokie fans.

Last Teams In: Nova, K-State, Baylor, Kentucky, and St. Joes
Teams Out: VT, Arizona State, Dayton, UMass, Miss, UAB, Ohio State

It's weird-looking that Duke is going to DC and Georgetown is going to Raleigh.... (Steve B.)

Agreed.

When UGA won, that was it for VA Tech. I can't wait to hear Seth Greenberg bitch and moan now. (Via Bruce)

Yeah he's gonna be pissed.

ASU and Va. Tech got seriously screwed. (Via SS Reporters)

Agreed. Butler got seriously hosed being a #7 seed, Drake should NOT be a #5, and Texas getting a Sweet 16 game in Houston is pretty sketchy.

"The ACC gets fewer teams when they don't have someone on the committee."- Jay Bilas

Tom O'Connor says that they don't pay attention to conference ranks and everything is done by individual teams. Billy Packer doesn't seem to buy it.

I guess if you've got a CBS camera on you during the Selection Show, you're making the Tournament. I'm looking at you, Baylor. (Via RJBO)

Hahaha. Clark is picking all #1 Seeds (that ALWAYS works) and Seth is going with Tenn, Kansas, Texas, and UCLA. My one rule is that you never ever pick Kansas....ever.

Clark's Sleepers: ND, Clem, MSU, WVU
Seth's Sleepers: St. Joes, USC, Temple, Arizona

Clark obviously doesn't know what a "sleeper" is.

Okay everyone....thanks for commenting and I'll keep updating as the night goes on. Look for the AA Bracket Challenge tomorrow and the unveiling of a very special March Madness t-shirt for you to pick up.

That was the rumor as soon as the coach announced that he was leaving Texas Tech, but longtime friend Billy Pack doesn't think it would be a good fit.

CBS' Billy Packer called Knight "the most brilliant clinician in the sport of basketball that's ever been" and put him at the "top of the list" of people he'd like to hear explain games -- "but I don't know if that translates to TV."

Generally, TV rookies debut in studio shows and not games, where the work can be more complicated. But Packer suggests Knight couldn't just be plopped down in a studio.

"I think he'd be frustrated," he said. "People are looking for tricky sound bites in studios, and to say something cute, and say it two or three times because the show is going into different markets, he'd walk out. He'd say, 'I'm not going to pretend I'm laughing for the third time.'"

For all of Billy Packer's flaws you can't say his honesty is one of them. It's almost as he's specifically describing Sunday Countdown. Although it seems like a good idea to most of Knight's friends I personally think this would be a horrible idea. Think Mike Ditka, but even more grumpy and standoffish.

He's just not a good fit for television which means ESPN will hire him later today.

Who's ready for some must-seethe TV? (Courier-Journal)

Ugh...okay. Here's the thing....Yes, I understand what the term "fagging out" means. I get it....you tire out....like a cigarette burning out....fag is a British slang for cigarette. I get all of that. But why be that insensitive and use the phrase? It's just so idiotic and ignorant to not pay attention to what you're saying.

A Brazil nut was once known as a "N****r Toe". Do we still call it that? Of course not....it's an inflammatory term, and has no business in our dialect.

So did I overreact when I first saw the video....probably. He wasn't "trying" to directly harm the gay population. So what is his response after CBS said it was a "poor choice of words"???

"I can assure you I will use that phrase again and I won't think twice about it," he said. "My meaning is genuine."

No Billy your meaning was/is not genuine. If your meaning was genuine you would have either A) Not used a derogatory word no matter what the connotation was. B) Apologized if there was confusion/harm, and explained the true meaning of the term.

Look I'm not perfect either. I have a lesbian friend, and use the term "gay" a lot around her. I've made a concerted effort to stop. But I guess the difference between Billy and myself is that I recognize when it bothers her. I then make sure to apologize, and I feel like an ass. He feels no remorse about anything he does......ever. I just have no respect people like that.

And on that note.....I'm done with Billy Packer. The guy has just worn out his welcome on this site and the broadcast booth for me. I hope CBS noticed all the anti-Packer noise during the tournament and decides to make a change (but they won't).

Packer Not Insensitive (Philly Inquirer)
Billy Packer On Fag Comment (Fanhouse)

Oh man....they make it so easy. This first arose from an Anonymous commenter in the quotes post, and has been verified at Fanhouse via your favorite Basketball Blogger. (I have no words to prepare you for this. Just pray he's replaced)

I'm really echoing MJD's sentiment here, but it's NOT cool to use that word. Nor is it really okay to use the word retard like Tom Jackson, or monkey like....well like about 40 white announcers. People are already commenting over at the Fanhouse that MJD is being to "PC". I feel sorry for you if you don't see this as blatant bigotry.

CBS....it's time. For real....I'm not just blowing smoke. Get rid of him.

Well I'm going to go out on a limb here, and differ from Bill Simmons. This Tournament pretty much sucked. Call me crazy (CRAZY!), but I'd take close exciting games over the best teams winning any day. Oh well...what are you going to do?

Make fun of it...that's what!

So last night's game was pretty boring, and you know what made it even more boring....Jim Nantz. He is just god awful these days. No energy whatsoever. Billy Packer was his normal self, but I thought he called a pretty good game. He did try to use the "Players are tired" angle a bit too much though. All in all I give the broadcast a C. Nothing ridiculous was said, but it lacked any semblance of energy.

Onto the quotes.....

“Jay Gibbons…..running with his heads up…..gets to second base”- Davey Martinez

Sorry I was watching the O's game before. Which head is the second one? If it's the one I'm thinking of...I hope it wasn't up.

"Oden picks up the foul....it’s his third"- JN
"Might be on Lighty....he raised his hand"- BP
"Nope....it’s on Oden, and it’s his third"- JN

This was the point where Nancy almost lost it, but he reeled himself back.

"Let's see if the referee makes him put it in." Full quote, for the record is "Brewer's got his shirt out now. Let's see if the referee makes him put it in." (BD from Sports Show On Mute)

Too funny. You could have probably just left it as is, and no one would know the difference.

"That was a fatigue foul, Jim." - BP (OMDQ)
Fatigue, Fatigue, Fatigue

"I want to _______ Billy Packer in the ________!" (Unsilent Majority)

I didn't want to post the whole thing without his permission, but the edited version looks funny as hell. Feel free to fill in your own.

But at the 10:52 mark left in the 1st half, BP said Oden was really hustling to break up the pass to Noah inside. Maybe you guys already mentioned it, but if you did I apologize. Oden was not sprinting down the block, he was jogging and just happened to be a bad pass that he deflected out of bounds. (Karl)

I agree 100%. He thought he was fouled on the other end of the court and pretty much walked heading back. F'ing Packer.

"Oden should be the Most Outstanding Player"- BP

Pretty sure a losing team has never had an MOP (Mash Out Posse for the lay person)

And the winner for quote of the night goes to......

Bruce Pearl on ESPN in the pregame!

"Everybody would like to average 13 points……all 6 starters."- Bruce Pearl

Dick Enberg has been in broadcasting for 50 years? Seriously? Gotta hand it to the man, he still has a ton of energy for a 72 year old. Unfortunately, he's now doing a tribute to hands. Yes, hands. It's as thrilling as you think it might be, as he describes various players' and coaches' hands as soft, firm, comforting, etc. With a different soundtrack, this would definitely be porn material. When we return from his hands piece, Enberg talks about the hands of time, and how you have to hand it to Florida for their first half. Gumbel says, "that's a handy little piece, Dick!" Kill me now. I don't deserve this torture.

I can only assume we'll be back to basketball after this commercial and...after the jump.


Clark Kellogg says the second half for Ohio State should be about threes, threes, and more threes. He's right, although some perimeter defense might help. It's not like Florida's big men are killing Ohio State at this point.

Ohio State comes out with purpose, scoring the first five points of the half. They're still within striking distance, down eight. Florida has withstood the pressure, however. Al Horford hits a grandpa-style set shot for two, but Oden comes back with a dunk at the other end.

Lee Humphrey hits a long three, but Oden gets another dunk for Ohio State. They're not exactly back in the game yet, but man, if they could only hit two or three 3-pointers in the next few minutes...

15:16 remaining. Florida 49, Ohio State 40.

We're back, and it's Florida's ball. A pass deflects out of bounds, off Oden, and it's another commercial. Well, Oden's getting plenty of rest over the past six or seven minutes. Given that he's the only guy who has shown up for Ohio State, that can only be a good thing for the Bucks.

Florida is playing a 2-3 matchup zone, and Ohio State is completely unable to get open looks. It's mystifying. Nobody will ever confuse this Florida defence with Nolan Richardson's 40 Minutes Of Hell, but it seems to be confusing the hell out of Ohio State. Finally, Ohio State figures out that they should be driving the lane, and have reduced the lead to seven.

Quietly, Florida is picking up some fouls. Noah, Richard, and Marreese Speights all have three fouls. Still waiting for anyone from OSU to help Oden on the offensive end. They seem to be playing much better, but have only shaved two points off Florida's halftime lead.

11:49 remaining. Florida 53, Ohio State 44.

Take the ball to the basket. That's what Thad Matta needs to be telling his team. Florida is waiting on the three point shot, and it's just not open for OSU. It's there for Florida, however -- Humphrey hits for a ten-point lead.

Well, the game isn't over yet, but it's damn close. Florida has a 14 point lead and Ohio State is tiring quickly. Billy Packer keeps harping on Oden's fatigue and how hard he's playing despite it. This absolutely pains me to write, but here we go:

Billy Packer is 100% correct. On this point. Ohio State picks up a few points, but they're really just doggy-paddling at this point. Lots of flailing and effort, but not going anywhere.

8:23 remaining. Florida 61, Ohio State 50.

Lee Humphrey is really something special. Every time -- and I mean every time -- Ohio State gains a little traction, Humphrey hits a three. Give Ohio State credit, though. They're fighting, they're pressing, and they're on a 9-3 run. Oden picks up his third foul, and it's officially Crunch Time.

6:17 remaining. Florida 64, Ohio State 56.

We're down to five minutes remaining, and Ohio State is still hanging around. They're down eight, and the Gators' interior players are really picking up the fouls. Noah has four, Richard has four, and Horford has three. Oden hits a pair of free throws, and it's a six point lead until Taurian Green channels the ghost of Lee Humphrey by hitting a demoralizing three pointer. Ron Lewis decides this is a good time to start playing, and he hits a layup. Chris Richard responds for Florida, and they still lead by nine with under four minutes remaining. We'll get a timeout on the next whistle, but not before Al Horford hits a tough leaner for an eleven point lead. Conley bricks a three for Ohio State, but Taurian Green misses a wide open layup. Ohio State can't muster the energy to grab the easy rebound, Florida retains possession, and will shoot two foul shots when we get back from commercial.

Ohio State had their chance in that sequence, and couldn't quite take advantage. They still can't hit a shot from the outside, and they're way too tired to effectively press the Gators on defense.

2:31 remaining. Florida 73, Ohio State 62

At this point, the only thing in doubt is the final score. Chris Richard has fouled out for Florida. OMDQ points out that Billy Packer, in his usual grating style, won't stop pounding Oden's fatigue into the ground. Agreed. It was a good point in the early part of the second half. We get it.

1:14 remaining. Florida 77, Ohio State 67.

It's "foul everything that moves" time for Ohio State. We only have a limited amount of time left, so quick -- how will Joakim Noah celebrate?

I predict a dry humping of Jim Nantz, with a possible Billy Packer reacharound. I also predict that Nantz will react in his usual, "golly gee willikers" manner, reminiscent of Brant from The Big Lebowski.

Full Time. Florida 84, Ohio State 75.

Ohio State just couldn't get all the way back up the mountain once Florida took a double digit lead. It was a nice effort, but Florida always seemed to play its best just when Ohio State threatened to make a true game of it.

Joakim Noah goes into the crowd and...hugs his mom. Well, that's a disappointment.

Oooh, we still have One Shining Moment to look, uh, forward to. Corey Brewer is your Most Outstanding Player, and there's no crime in that. He was amazing on Saturday night, and very good tonight.

Joakim Noah just said...well, hold on. Let me rewind my DVR for the full transcription. I owe it to you, the reader.

"I mean, this is what it's all about. I mean, we worked so hard for this, you know what I'm saying? So yeah, we gonna do it big! All day, all night, do it huge, you guys have no idea what I'm talkin' about when I'm saying that, but but my boys know! The Gator boys know what I'm talkin' about! Gainesvile know what I'm talkin' about!" Look out, Atlanta. There are a lot of Gator parents who suddenly wish this game was played in Indianapolis. Or Hartford. Or Juneau. Ehh, what's the worst that could happen in Atlanta, right?

I suppose it's not what he said as much as how he said it. Kind of like a crazed Tracy Morgan. Also, I'm pretty sure that Billy Packer knows what Joakim's talking about. Packer's got hoes in different area codes, you know.

Seth Davis, post commercial: "The rule should be that Joakim Noah does the post-game interview every year at the Final Four." No argument here.

No "One Shining Moment" yet, as Dr. Miles Brand is here to hand the championship trophy to Billy Donovan. You want to give us something, Miles? How about a goddamned eight-team football playoff?

That's all for me tonight. Thanks to everyone who stopped by to comment. Feel free to stop by Run Up The Score to say hello sometime.