.JPG)
NFL Kickoff concert
.JPG)
2008 Venice Film Festival
2008 VMA nominations
Chick Ludwig covers the Cincinnati Bengals. He also writes about his other passions: college football, basketball and golf.Home > Blogs > Chick Ludwig At Large > Archives > 2008 > March
March 2008
Bengals awarded 4 compensatory draft picks
BENGALS NOW HAVE 10 PICKS IN APRIL 26-27 NFL DRAFT
The Cincinnati Bengals were awarded four compensatory draft picks by the NFL on Monday, pushing their total number of picks to 10 in the April 26-27 NFL Draft.
The Bengals get an extra pick in Round 3 (97th overall), an extra pick in Round 6 (207th), and two extra picks in Round 7 (244th and 246th).
Compensatory picks are awarded by the League for net player losses in unrestricted free agency for the previous year.
Following the 2006 season, Cincinnati lost left guard Eric Steinbach (Cleveland), defensive tackle Shaun Smith (Cleveland), wide receiver Kelley Washington (New England), cornerback Tory James (New England), linebacker Marcus Wilkins (Atlanta), free safety Kevin Kaesviharn (New Orleans) and tight end Tony Stewart (Oakland) in free agency.
The Bengals currently have 10 total selections in the 2008 draft. Prior to the compensatory pick announcement, the Bengals had one selection each in Rounds 1 through 6. The Bengals traded their original pick in round 7 to St. Louis for quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick prior to the 2007 season.
In addition to player movement, a formula including salary, playing time and postseason honors determines the specific picks awarded.
Permalink | Comments (9) | Post your comment | Categories: Bengals
Reds Opener: Punishing Bud Selig, praising Ruth Lyons
PUNISHING BUD SELIG
===COMING TUESDAY, APRIL 1, 2008: THE MYSTERY OF EX-BENGAL FRED WILLIS; AND IT’S NO APRIL FOOL’S JOKE===
Of all the Rites of Spring — the NCAA Tournament’s “Final Four,” the Masters, Kentucky Derby and Indy 500 — I cherish Opening Day for the Cincinnati Reds the most.
With the Findlay Market Parade, the pregame festivities and the game itself, it’s a time of celebration in the Queen City, which closes for a “city holiday” as kids and adults play hooky from school and work in observance of baseball’s annual rebirth.
It’s like magic. Too bad Major League Baseball and its puppet for a commissioner, Bud Selig, disagrees.
For decades, the first pitch of every major league season took place in Cincinnati. Then Selig came along and destroyed that sacred tradition by force-feeding us Sunday night garbage on ESPN and season-opening series in Mexico, Puerto Rico and Japan.
It’s shameful.
“The Reds were the team that opened the season, and that should’ve remained the case as the oldest franchise in the game,” said St. Louis native Carl Moritz, an editor for the venerable Sporting News, the 122-year-old “Bible of Sports.”
“They deserve that. Their fans deserve that. It just spoke of the tradition, the passion for the game that Cincinnati’s always had. It was always a return to the roots and tradition of baseball. and to have that stripped away just isn’t right.”
Today, I will cheer Findlay Market Parade Grand Marshal Cesar Geronimo, sing the National Anthem with Kathy Wade, marvel at the fly-over of F-18 jets from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 224, cry at the introduction of the Joe Nuxhall, Chief Bender, Bob Howsam and Bob Purkey families and cringe at Hamilton County Commissioner Todd Portune’s ceremonial first pitch.
And I’ll curse Selig, who is Ebenezer Scrooge masquerading as Mother Teresa.
PRAISING RUTH LYONS
From Rick in the ‘Nati: “I, too, am a ‘second generation’ Ruth Lyons/Bob Braun fan. I can recall the “Rally” song and many other memories. In fact, I have her Christmas LP. For my 12th birthday, my mom took me to the Bob Braun Show, and I was awarded with 4 tickets right behind home plate (the Riverfront equivalent of Diamond seats!), an atlas courtesy of Stacy Storage and Moving, and a $10 bill. HUGE!! Bob Braun spoke to me on camera, and I remember talking about the fact that Pete Rose got his 2,000th hit the night before. Good times! By the way, I am a lifelong fan of “Days of our Lives” in part because mom or grandma always had it on after the 50-50 Club! It’s awesome that you’re now in the “blogosphere” and I’m glad you now have an outlet to riff on a variety of topics. It hurts my brain to have to think of the Bengals all the time. The drama associated with that team is exhausting! Go Reds! Go X! For the love of God, draft an O-Lineman!!!!
—-The Chickster’s response: This is my huge email of the day! Thanks for your support of my O-Lineman theory!
From Keith in the ‘Nati: “We didn’t have Ruth Lyons in Chicago, but my grandmother would watch Mike Douglas every day. Occasionally, she would let me catch an episode of “Dark Shadows” if she deemed me as being good that day. She also had a pot of coffee going all the time. Fun stuff!”
—-The Chickster’s response: Dark Shadows! I loved that show. Spooky. Eerie. Fascinating.
From Teri in the ‘Nati: “Hey, Chick: Loved the 50/50 article. How about Mary Ellen Tanner and Ruby Wright? I also remember my Gram watching the show and telling me how ‘very handsome that Bob Braun is.’ Now I am aging myself (56 in August). What about the microphone that she held that look like a nosegay (flower bouquet)? What was the name of the band? Cliff something or other. It was great looking down memory lane. Thanks for the article!”
—-The Chickster’s response: Mystery solved. It was “Cliff Lash and the 50-50 Club Band.”
From “Aunt Kathy” in the ‘Nati: “I also have many wonderful memories of Grandma and the Reds as do your cousins — my boys. We often talk about the “good old days” and Grandma’s chili, Tang and baking. Tim and Brian will talk on and on about being with Grandma and listening to the Reds games and how she taught them to keep score with what was going on each inning. It is officially spring with Opening Day and the Reds and remembering Grandma Ludwig. How sweet it is!”
—-The Chickster’s response: Thanksgiving Day & Christmas Eve at Grandma’s house are priceless memories! Kathy, I love you!
From Touchdown Tim: “I don’t remember Ruth Lyons because I didn’t grow up here. But sometime in the early to mid 1970s we got cable and Channel 5 in Cincinnati. For some reason I got hooked on Paul Dixon and Bob Braun. So I remember all about the Ruth Lyons Christmas Fund. The thing I remember most about Bob Braun was one year he visited the Bengals’ training camp in Wilmington. They let him put the pads on. I guess they put a few plays in for him. On one, he was a running back and the play was a sweep. They pitched him the ball and he was running around the end and out of no where came Bill Bergey and just crushed him. I will never forget that. Question: Can Marvin right this ship or are we headed back to the 3 and 13 days?”
—-The Chickster’s response: The only thing funnier than Bob Braun’s not-so-smash single “Hard Lovin Annie/ Love Comes And Goes” was his semi-tough football career. And, yes, I firmly believe Marv will get past the .500 hump and make Bengals fans proud again.
From Rebecca in West Carrollton: “I can remember my mother watching the 50-50 Club everyday. She went several times to the show in Cincinnati. When I was 16, I finally got her to take me. I got to go with her several times to see Ruth. We thought she was great. She had very interesting people on her show and she was a big Reds fan. She was always talking about the Reds game and remained behind them win or lose.”
—-The Chickster’s response: I’m deeply touched by your email. You have memories of Ruth Lyons that will last a lifetime.
Permalink | Comments (115) | Post your comment | Categories: General
Bengals could use a history lesson (Carl Pickens)
BENGALS SHOULD USE HISTORY AS A GUIDE
===’LUDWIG AT LARGE’ ALERT: My next blog entry will be Monday at 6 a.m. Readers’ top “Ruth Lyons 50-50 Club” memories===
History should be our best teacher.
We must learn from our mistakes so that we don’t repeat them.
Unfortunately for the Cincinnati Bengals, they keep ignoring the past. They keep giving it the ol’ Heisman-Trophy-stiff-arm. And they keep repeating their mistakes.
I believe they’re going to pay dearly for keeping wide receiver Chad Johnson on their roster instead of trading him.
Exhibit A is Carl Pickens, the talented, but turbulent wide receiver who played for the Bengals from 1992-99.
Pickens was the first restricted free agent in NFL history to sign an offer sheet with another club.
As Yogi Berra would say, “You can look it up.”
Arizona Cardinals head coach Buddy Ryan tendered Pickens with an offer sheet on March 17, 1995 — the Green Bay also wanted him — but the Bengals matched it and kept him.
And Pickens was miserable until he was terminated after the 1999 season. And he made his teammates miserable, too.
Now Chad Johnson is miserable. Even his absence from the locker room during the club’s offseason workout program is causing a distraction.
Like T.J. Houshmandzadeh said so eloquently in the midst of 2007’s misery: “Talent doesn’t win games, obviously. You can look at us and see why. We’re a good example of that. Talent doesn’t win games. Or, maybe we don’t have as much talent as we think we do.”
Precisely. Absolutely. Obviously.
The Bengals arguably do less with more talent than any team in the NFL.
The Bengals’ eight year record with Pickens: 40-88 (5-11, 3-13, 3-13, 7-9, 8-8, 7-9, 3-13, 4-12).
The Bengals’ seven-year record with Chad: 50-62 (6-10, 2-14, 8-8, 8-8, 11-5, 8-8, 7-9).
Bottom line: The Bengals have a .446 winning percentage with Chadly. They can do the same —- if not better —- without him.
And don’t give me this crap about salary-cap ramifications. I don’t care if Chadly’s exit counts $20 million against the cap.
The salary cap is $116 million per club in 2008. There’s plenty of room to absorb his $8 million.
It’s a hit worth taking to save the team from further turmoil.
History says so.
WHOOEE, PIG SOOEY!
I miss Lisa Cornwell!
The former sports & news anchor at Cincinnati’s WCPO-TV (Channel 9) recently moved to Knoxville, Tenn., where she’s working for WBIR-TV (Channel 10).
Even though Lisa and Russell Biven have taken over the morning news slot on Channel-10, Lisa is following the Tennessee Lady Volunteers’ march through the women’s NCAA Tournament.
Lisa, a Fayetteville, Arkansas, native, was a two-time All-State basketball player in high school, a three-time All-American junior golfer, a four-time winner of the Arkansas Women’s State Golf Championship, and in 1992 was named the Arkansas Female Athlete of the Year.
She tells me that even though she’s deep in the heart of Volunteer Country, she’ll always be an Arkansas Razorback.
Lisa knows that if she ever needs a caddie for a golf tournament, I’m her guy.
Together, we’re The Beauty and The Beast.
For Lisa’s picture & bio, point your Web browser to:
http://knoxtrivia.blogspot.com/2008/03/lisa-cornwell-debuts-on-wbir.html
DADDY-O OF THE RADIO
Chick Ludwig’s next radio appearances:
—-Sunday, March 30, at 11 a.m. on WLW-AM (700) in the ‘Nati with Ken Broo (The Broo-Master’s Golden Touch).
—-Monday, March 31, 6-8 p.m. on WONE-AM (980) in Dayton with Mark Schlemmer (“The Skipper” knows baseball inside & out).
CHICK LUDWIG TRIVIA
Chick Ludwig grew up in the Price Hill section of Cincinnati and sang in the St. Williams School boys choir from the fourth-through-eighth grades under the direction of the immortal Dave Allen.
The highlight every year was the “singers ‘n’ servers” bus trip to LeSourdsville Lake Amusement Park.
I was a soprano through the sixth grade, then became an alto.
Other highlights: Singing on The Rosemary Clooney Show; singing in the annual Cincinnati May Festival, singing on a float in The St. Patrick’s Day Parade; and singing as a beggar boy in an opera at the Cincinnati Zoo.
Hard to believe I was a soprano once upon a time, considering nowadays I fancy myself as the reincarnation of the late, great John Facenda, voice of NFL Films.
Find more on Chick Ludwig at:
http://www.orangefrazer.com/cgi-bin/disp.cgi?pg=chickludwig&matchauthor=Chick+Ludwig
LUDWIG AT LARGE ‘GUERRILLA MARKETING’
To all my loyal blog readers, thank you for helping make “Ludwig At Large” one of the most popular blogs at the Dayton Daily News.
Tell a neighbor. Phone a friend. Twist a relative’s arm. Send ‘em my link and have ‘em book mark it as a favorite.
http://www.daytondailynews.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/dayton/chickludwig/
Until next time, this is “The Chickster” saying: “Make Love, Not War; Give Peace a Chance; and Strawberry Fields Forever.”
Contact Chick Ludwig at (937) 225-2253 or cludwig@DaytonDailyNews.com
Permalink | Comments (35) | Post your comment | Categories: Bengals
Ruth Lyons’ 50-50 Club memories on Opening Day
A TRIBUTE TO RUTH LYONS, BOB BRAUN & GRANDMAS EVERYWHERE
===”LUDWIG AT LARGE” WANTS TO HEAR FROM EVERY CINCINNATI REDS FAN WHO REMEMBERS THE RUTH LYONS 50-50 CLUB! EMAIL ME YOUR FAVORITE MEMORIES AT cludwig@daytondailynews.com AND I’LL PUBLISH THE BEST OF THE BUNCH ON MY BLOG===
I am in such a good mood that it’s scary. Absolutely scary.
For three reasons:
The Xavier Musketeers, yes, my Xavier Musketeers, beat West Virginia in OT in the NCAA Tournament’s Round of 16 on Thursday night, March 27.
My blog, “Ludwig At Large,” is in its infancy —- less than two months old —- yet it has taken off like a kite in a hurricane.
Opening Day for the Cincinnati Reds is Monday, March 31.
TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE
Ahhh, Opening Day. There’s nothing like it. The only thing I love more than “The Game” is the pregame festivities, highlighted by the annual Findlay Market Parade.
If you’ve never been, go-Go-GO! Anchor yourself at Fountain Square at 11 a.m. Monday and enjoy an awesome trip down memory lane as 165 units of floats, marching bands & decorated automobiles, trucks & flatbed trailers grace the streets of the ‘Nati.
“Big Red Machine” center fielder Cesar Geronimo will serve as the 2008 Grand Marshal, and tributes are planned for the late, great Reds pitcher and broadcaster Joe Nuxhall both in the parade and in pregame ceremonies at Great American Ball Park.
An exhibit on the life & times of the “Ol’ Left Hander” is already on display at the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum.
“Joe is in everybody’s hearts this Opening Day,” said Neil Luken, coordinator of the annual parade, which kicks off at 11 a.m. and runs from Over-the-Rhine through Downtown, ending just past Fountain Square.
A lot of the floats will be paying tribute to Joe and his family.
A poster featuring Nuxhall as a past Grand Marshal will be sold with proceeds going to the Joe Nuxhall Educational Fund.
RUTH LYONS IS A SAINT
Somebody else is in my heart on each & every Opening Day. The Fab-You-Lous Ruth Lyons.
I know I’m dating myself here —- Yikes! I turn 54 in July! —- but how many of you fine folks out there remember The Ruth Lyons 50-50 Club?
I used to walk from my home at the corner of West Eight Street & Rosemont Avenue in the Price Hill section of Cincinnati to my grandma’s house, and watch Ruth Lyons on WLWT Channel 5.
Ruth, who should be canonized a saint for her charity, “The Ruth Lyons Children’s Fund,” retired in 1967 due to declining health. Bob Braun kept the ball rolling with the “Bob Braun Show,” which he hosted from 1967 to 1984.
The daily 90-minute show was the top-rated live entertainment/information program in the Midwest, and was syndicated throughout the heartland of America. It featured a live band, singers, and special guests including Bob Hope, Lucille Ball, Johnny Carson, Paul Lynde, Red Skelton, Phyllis Diller and Dick Clark.
Politicians including Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan, Jimmy Carter, George H. W. Bush, John Glenn, and Ted Kennedy were also guests.
‘RALLY ‘ROUND THE REDS’
There was Grandma Ludwig and her grandson, Charles A. “Chick” Ludwig, Jr. —- I was known as Chuckie & Charlie in those days —- hunkered around the TV.
I’d make my exit from the living room to the kitchen when “As The World Turns” came on. Grandma was a devout follower of the soap opera. I was a devout lover of her Bundt cake. I helped myself to the “Tang” in the fridge and endless pot of coffee on the counter.
When I close my eyes to sleep on Sunday night, Opening Day eve, I’ll think of grandma and Ruth Lyons, who used to sing every Reds fan’s favorite song, back in the day on the 50-50 Club:
“C’mon, let’s rally ‘round the Reds, boys, rally ‘round the Reds … we want a Pennant in September!”
To re-live some of those magical moments of our childhood, go to …
http://www.answers.com/topic/bob-braun?cat=entertainment
Until next time, this is “The Chickster” saying: Make Love, Not War; Give Peace a Chance; and Strawberry Fields Forever.
Contact Chick Ludwig at (937) 225-2253 or cludwig@DaytonDailyNews.com
Permalink | Comments (305) | Post your comment | Categories: General
Bengals draft buzz: 1st round OT a must
PRIORITY NO. 1: PROTECT CARSON PALMER
You name the area, any area, and the Cincinnati Bengals need help.
Not just at one position, but everywhere …
… everywhere except quarterback, where Carson Palmer and Ryan Fitzpatrick are 1-2 with Jeff Rowe (I call him “Jethro”) and Jordan Palmer battling it out for No. 3.
Folks, I’m here to tell ya that I’m absolutely, positively convinced the Bengals should-must-will draft an offensive tackle with the No. 9 overall pick in the first round of the 2008 NFL draft on April 26.
Why? Because left tackle Levi Jones and right tackle Willie Anderson are hobbling around on bum knees and likely won’t be able to play a 16-game season.
And because Stacy Andrews, anointed with the franchise tag ($7.455 million), refuses to sign a long-term contract and will likely leave in 2009 as an unrestricted free agent.
The team’s No. 1 priority must always be keeping Palmer well-protected. That’s why an athletic OT is the way to go in the first round. Other needs (DT, C, LB, FS, SS, KR) can be addressed later.
REPEAT OF LEVI IN 2002
Remember back in 2002? The Bengals got RIPPED by ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. and Chris Berman for selecting Levi Jones No. 10 overall. They needed a LT desperately, and Jones turned out to be an excellent pick.
It’s time to pull the trigger again.
Of course, conventional wisdom says to select the best defensive tackle available in the first round because the run defense is so weak.
Either LSU’s Glenn Dorsey or USC’s Sedrick Ellis should be there.
I say, “DON’T DO IT”
The top pick should be one of the following: Boise State’s Ryan Clady, Vanderbilt’s Chris Williams, Pitt’s Jeff Otah or Boston College’s Gosder Cherilus.
Readers should feel free to spank me if I’m wrong. But the more I look at it, the better an OT looks!
READERS WANT TO KNOW:
From DemolitionDan: “When is the NFL going to let the Bengals know about Odell Thurman’s 2008 status? Hopefully, it’s before the draft. If not, well, that’s just wrong.”
—-The Chickster’s response: Just like last year, I expect it’ll be THE DAY BENGALS PLAYERS ARRIVE AT TRAINING CAMP IN JULY. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell will take it right up to deadline. Any missteps by Thurman and he’ll be out of the league for good.
From BengalBill in Hamilton: “Hey, Chick. I would like to see the Bengals trade their first-round draft for a couple of journeyman players in needed positions. They could apply the millions of signing bonus money they’ll save to the salaries of the new players. What say you?”
—-The Chickster’s response: I love ya, Bill, but there’s no way. The Bengals have already gobbled up journeymen LBs in Darryl Blackstock and Brandon Johnson. Both guys give the club added depth and will boost the special teams cover units. Bottom line: There are no “journeymen” that equate to a No. 9 draft pick.
From DemolitionDan again: “Chick, I just read your recent blog with the Marvin Lewis interview on NFL Network. I must say that for the first time in a LONG time I am impressed with the way Marvin answered questions in an interview. Maybe he is just so drained during the season from answering questions from the media that in the offseason he’s better. I don’t know. The comparison he made to Kobe/injured player was great. Kudos to him for that. And thanks to you for posting that interview because I don’t have cable or satellite, and so I didn’t see it!”
—-The Chickster’s response: I agree. It was great to see Marvin “shoot straight” instead of shooting himself in the foot.
From Deron in Harrison: “I watched a video interview with Chris Henry and you were right there. He sounded different than he did in his first year. Not as awkward and introverted during the interview. Do you get a sense that this kid has turned the corner? Does he sound different to you? On another note, I thought Marvin was as good as he’s ever been in his interview about Chad. I like the stance the team is taking. Somebody has to stand up to these Divas.”
—-The Chickster’s response: Yes, yes, a thousand times yes on Chris Henry. He not only sounds different, but looks different. Loose, relaxed, mature, and a lot more focused. After three years of turmoil that includes four arrests and two suspensions, Henry seems to have his act together. Being away from the game makes you appreciate it so much more. One of the beautiful things about being a Bengals beat writer is that we get to see young players grow up, mature and blossom as athletes and people.
THE CHICKSTER ON THE RADIO
—-Friday, March 28: I’ll be on WGRR (Oldies 103.5 FM) as a guest of the “Chris & Janeen-Married with Microphones” show at 6:50 a.m. and 8:50 a.m. (set your alarm clocks!)
—-Friday, March 28: I’ll be on WONE-AM (980), live in studio, with Mark Schlemmer from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Until next time, this is “The Chickster” saying: Make Love, Not War; Give Peace a Chance; and Strawberry Fields Forever.
Contact Chick Ludwig at (937) 225-2253 or cludwig@DaytonDailyNews.com
Permalink | Comments (24) | Post your comment | Categories: Bengals
Will UD’s Kissell retire? Football in WSU’s future?
This is pure speculation, but definitely worth asking:
Now that Wright State athletics director Mike Cusack has retired, how long with Ted Kissell stick around? Is he the next guy to step down?
Kissell holds dual titles as vice president and director of athletics at the University of Dayton.
But rumors are swirling “on the hill” that Kissell could retire either later this year or early next year. If that’s the case, look for Tim Wabler —- associate vice president for athletics —- to take over as AD with Mike Kelly becoming second in command.
Kelly stepped down as UD’s football coach on Jan. 22, 2008, ending a brilliant, 27-year run with an .819 winning percentage (246-54-1). He remains at UD with expanded duties as an associate director of athletics.
Kelly will be the sole inductee in the 2008 University of Dayton Athletic Hall of Fame Class, becoming the 150th member of the Hall when he is inducted on Feb. 16.
BRAD BROWNELL’S FUTURE
Wright State men’s basketball coach Brad Brownell is one of the nation’s hottest young coaches, having guided the Raiders to two straight 20-win seasons.
Two years deep into his six-year contract at WSU, Brownell is being mentioned as a candidate for several job openings, including Indiana, Providence and South Carolina. (Toledo, Detroit Mercy and Western Illinois are also open.)
There’s no doubt in my mind that Brownell will be interviewed during the “Final Four” weekend at San Antonio. But I look for him to stay at WSU.
Jealously, I want him to stay and coach Scott Grote, the former Centerville High School star who becomes eligible to play for the Raiders in 2008-09 after transferring from Duquesne.
WSU officials know that Brownell is a hot item. They want him to stay, too, but they understand he’ll eventually move on.
“I trust Brad to do the right thing,” said Dan Abrahamowicz, WSU’s vice president for student affairs, who oversees intercollegiate athletics. “He’s a talented person and talented people are going to be in demand, and we expect that.”
BROWNELL’S STRENGTH
Brownell resurrected UNC-Wilmington. Now he’s elevating WSU.
“He’s shown he can rebuild,” said Jeff Price, head men’s basketball coach at Sinclair Community College. “He’s also shown he can step in and take a program that already has the components in place, and make it better. He’s done a great job of solidifying programs, and building them up.”
WSU’S NEXT ATHLETICS DIRECTOR …
… has to find a way, MUST FIND A WAY, to build basketball attendance at the Ervin J. Nutter Center.
FOOTBALL AT WRIGHT STATE?!
I’m receiving telephone calls and emails from Wright State fans clamoring for the Raiders football!
The original blueprint for the Nutter Center property called for a football stadium. Several studies on football have been conducted over the years, but faculty and staff keep squelching the idea because of budget and gender equity concerns.
I understand that the cost would be enormous, and more women’s sports would have to be added to offset the number of male participants in football.
But it sure is a delicious idea.
Just imagine what football would do for school spirit and student morale on autumn Saturday afternoons?
I heard a lot of talk at Mike Cusack’s retirement that “the sky’s the limit” for WSU athletics; that the university is committed to student welfare, diversity and gender equity.
Well, if that’s the case, I believe the next AD should have the vision to see NCAA I-AA football on the horizon.
“I’d love to see football at Wright State,” said Joe Hardwick of Washington Twp. “It would be a wonderful thing. That would really make Wright State a nice university.”
Opening game of the 2012 season in 30,000 seat “Raider Stadium”… Eastern Kentucky at Wright State.
LUDWIG AT LARGE ALERT!!!
I’m headed to the Dayton-Ohio State NIT basketball game in Columbus tonight (March 26). My next posting will be Thursday, March 27, at 3 p.m.
I’m signing off, now, with a question: HOW IN THE NAME OF JAMES NAISMITH CAN THE SYRACUSE ORANGEMEN BLOW A 22-POINT LEAD TO UMASS IN THE CARRIER DOME? The Big East stinks. The A-10 rules.
Contact Chick Ludwig at (937) 225-2253 or cludwig@DaytonDailyNews.com
Permalink | Comments (118) | Post your comment | Categories: General
Carson Palmer (Q & A) won’t enter Chad fray
CARSON TO CHAD & T.J.: ‘WISH YOU WERE HERE’
Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer met with the media at Paul Brown Stadium for the start of the club’s offseason workout program. He gave a Heisman Trophy-like stiff-arm to questions about Chad Johnson, which is understandable. As the leader of the team, Carson sees the big picture. Chad sees only dollar signs in Dallas. Here’s the entire transcript of our interview with Carson Palmer:
Q. How are you, stud?
A. Good. Good to see you guys. It’s been a while.
Q. Excited to be back?
A. I’m very excited to be back; excited to get going. Every year, this is an exciting time of the year. We’ve got some new faces around, some new coaches, and some new stuff to learn, new names to learn, but a lot of work to do. So it’s exciting.
Q. At the end of the 2007 season, you were as disappointed as ever. Do you still feel the sting of 2007?
A. Oh, definitely. It’s a great motivation just to think back to last year and to realize the areas we all need to improve on. and move forward. You don’t really get that last season’s bad taste out of our mouth really until the first win of this upcoming year.
Q. You’ve got some things to work on. You said you wanted to improve your footwork and completion percentage. Still true?
A. Everything, improve everything. There’s nobody that doesn’t need to improve. Even Eli Manning and the Giants. They’ve got a lot of work to do, too. I’m at the point now where I’m in shape, and there are little things I need to work on here and there, things I need to study. Like I said before, it’s an exciting time of the year because you see how much improvement can be done. Just knowing the confidence I have in myself and we have in our team, we know we can get to where we need to get. It just takes a lot of hard work and a lot of dedication, a lot of things falling in the right place.
Q. Your thoughts on your new tight end, Ben Utecht?
A. I’m excited. Anytime a quarterback gets another target, whether it’s a receiver, an offensive lineman, a running back, it’s exciting. I haven’t had a chance to meet him yet. I’ve talked to Reggie (Kelly) about him. Reggie’s excited to get another guy in to help him out. It’ll be exciting when we get out there on the field and work with him, and see what he can do in any ways he can help us.
Q. Two of your weapons (Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh) aren’t here. How do you feel about that?
A. I wish they were here, But we’re going to work with what we’ve got and the guys that are here. That’s another exciting thing, too. With Marcus Maxwell, he’s a guy we haven’t really seen much. But, shoot, he’s shown some really great things on the field working with the practice squad, and working against our defense. Antonio Chatman … There’s a ton of guys that are going to get a shot that they wouldn’t normally get because T.J and Chad aren’t around. They’ve got a lot to learn. They’ve got a lot of work to do. and I’ve got a lot of work to do catching up with them and getting my timing and rhythm down with them. It’s a great opportunity for those guys, and when Chad and T.J. get here, they’ll get here and they’ll be in shape and ready to roll. But for right now, we’re working with the guys that are here.”
Q. Is this Chris Henry’s bust-out season?
A. I hope so. We’ve been saying that the last couple of years. He’s got all the talent in the world. Everybody’s seen it. He’s just got to get in shape and get ready to play and when his number’s called, he’s got to make the plays.
Q. What’s your reaction to all the stuff with Chad over the last couple of months. Is it a distraction?
A. Not for me. I’ve seen some of the things and really haven’t paid much attention to it. I’ve just been rally getting prepared to get in shape, return and being back out here.
Q. Is there a fear that it (Chad’s antics) could really escalate into something negative as the team gets closer to training camp and the season?
A. To be honest, I’m not really going to get too involved in that. I don’t know. I know the guys that are here are working their butts off and working for a spot. Whoever is going to play X (split end) or the weakside receiver is getting ready to start because you don’t know the difference. You don’t know whether he’s going to be here or not. But I’m not worried. We’ve got a good group of guys, some mature guys, some veteran guys that won’t let any off-the-field distractions get in the way of what’s going on, and all the work that needs to be done right now.
Q. The Bengals signed your brother, Jordan, in the offseason. How’s he doing?
A. Good. He’s been working his butt off. He’s been throwing a ton with a QB coach back in California. He’s in great shape and has a good shot to compete and battle, and see what happens.
Q. Are you going to slap him around here?
A. No. He caught up to me. I was always four years older and I can always beat up on him and pick on him. Now he weighs a little bit more than me and he’s a little bit taller than me, so I’m not going to mess with him too much.
Q. How’s your knee?
A. Great, great. No issues whatsoever.
Q. What’s your offseason been like so far?
A. Lot of things. I traveled a little bit. But for the last two months, I was working out with my trainer (in California) and studying film and looking at all the things I need to change and improve on while I’m back here. But it was nice. It was a good chance to get away and kind of re-energize and get ready for this offseason (workout program).
email Chick Ludwig at cludwig@daytondailynews.com
Permalink | Comments (12) | Post your comment | Categories: Bengals
Marvin Lewis: Bengals won’t trade Chad
Cincinnati Bengals Head Coach Marvin Lewis addressed “The Chad Johnson Situation” on NFL Total Access on Monday, March 24, with Rich Eisen and Solomon Wilcots.
And I must applaud both sides for their spirit. The questions were tough, but ol’ Marvin didn’t flinch, saying there’s no way Chad will be traded.
Wilcots, who played safety and cornerback for the Bengals from 1987-90, has been critical of the team in recent weeks, saying the Bengals haven’t done enough in free agency to put themselves in playoff contention in 2008.
Here are the Eisen-Wilcots questions and Lewis’ answers. Give it up to both sides.
Q. Last week, Chad Johnson was a guest on the NFL Network program and once again making it well known that he feels unappreciated in Cincinnati and wants to go somewhere else. It appears from the outside that differences seem irreconcilable — how is it from the inside?
A. There really are no differences because if Chad wants the opportunity to play professional football, this is his opportunity right now to play here in Cincinnati. Despite his feelings and whatever he says when he comes on your show, he doesn’t have a choice in the matter. He signed a contract, which is a very long-term contract. He’s been very well compensated since 2003 under two different contracts since then. So that’s the case right now. He’s got an opportunity to play professional football here or do what he says he’s thought about doing, which is sit out and that’s fine. Our football team will move on and be ready to go, just as we would if someone got injured. You talk to your team all the time about being one play from being injured and without a certain player, and if that the case, we’ll be fine and move on.
Q. We’d heard Chad linked to a number of teams, at least that he’s talked about —- from the Miami Dolphins to the Washington Redskins and the Dallas Cowboys.
A. He’s linking himself, because that would be tampering.
Q. But from the Bengals’ perspective, are you willing to part (with Johnson)? Would you listen to other teams if they were interested in Chad?
A. No, we are not going to trade Chad Johnson as I’ve said. We’re not going to trade Chad. I’ve made it clear and our owner (Mike Brown) has made it clear. Like I said earlier, if he’s going to play professional football, he’s going to do it in Cincinnati.
Q. He’s been dancing around the concept that he’s unappreciated there in Cincinnati and that he feels as if he’s been treated like a cancer of the team. Where would he get that idea from?
A. I don’t know. I can’t take the heat on both sides of the coin here, because at some point last year people said I don’t do a very good job and I enable Chad, so I can’t be on one side with him, then on the other side with him. I coach Chad. I love Chad as a player and as a person and want the very best things for Chad.
Q. So coach, what is the issue that you’re facing right now?
A. There really is no issue, Rich. There’s two choices. I think Kobe Bryant went through a little of this in the offseason. The Lakers said you’re going to be a Laker and he said, well let’s play and let’s go to the Playoffs. Kobe has led his team to the Playoffs and I think that’s what Chad has an opportunity to do. To stay on the positive and get things right. If indeed the things that he says and tells people that I hear and read about going to the Playoffs and winning a playoff game, those are right in line with our goals. So he needs to do his part, put the team on his back and go to work.
‘LUDWIG AT LARGE’ READER REACTION
From QuickComet: “The Eagles wouldn’t trade for a turd like this. Trading Chad is a big cap hit to the Bengals. Lots of teams want Reggie Brown of the Eagles, but he still has $8 million left on his cap charge, just like Chad does. That means they aren’t going anywhere.”
From Touchdown Tommy in the ‘Nati: “The Cutman (1530 Homer’s Alan Cutler) was talking about your blog this morning while I was driving into work. Some fans were disagreeing with your opinions about when Chad gave up on the Bengals. Surprisingly, the Cutman was on your side even though it was not his idea. I have to agree with you. I think Chad has to go. In three years he will be washed up and yesterday’s news. The great Bill Walsh was always quick to get rid of problem players. No one wants to play with a jerk.”
From Touchdown Troy in Hillsboro: “Chick, I just saw your interview with Chris Henry. He’s acting like a pro football player. Hopefully, he will continue to grow. Carson is taking the role of leader, it seems. I’m excited for the new season. C.J. needs to quit this stuff about wanting out. It would have been nice to have T.J. and Chad for the workouts. I think T.J. will be fine. It’s C.J. we need to worry about. Please tell BIG BEN (Utecht) I said, ‘Welcome to Cincinnati and The Jungle.’ I hope we keep Daniel Coats. I’d love to see Fanene and Peko side by side. Take care.”
From Philly Fan Jamie: “Hey man. Or should I have said “YO” since I’m a Philly fan? Maybe I should beat the stereotype like the snowballs at Santa you hear every nationally televised game. It’s very frustrating when they roll that lazy piece of reporting out there. Anyway, I couldn’t agree more with a Chad-for-Lito trade. We need a playmaker at WR and you guys could use a top CB when healthy. Both guys won’t be with their teams much longer and what better deal would either team get anyway? If it’s true Chad swung at Lewis and they don’t talk, it’s over. From what we hear in Philly, Reid either finally knows they’re not good enough or it has just occurred to him, and he’s looking. Is it the Bengals or us that don’t do this deal. Any word if the two teams are discussing it? Sorry. I’m just tired of watching Andy Reid throw 45 times a game to number 3 WRs. I am enjoying the Sixers beat the Celtics in Boston, though, as I’m typing this. Ha-ha. Thanks.”
email Chick Ludwig at cludwig@daytondailynews.com
Permalink | Comments (7) | Post your comment | Categories: Bengals
NFLPA: Chad not ‘tampering’ when he speaks out
NO HARM, NO FOUL FOR CHAD
Despite being under contract to the Cincinnati Bengals through the 2011 NFL season, Chad Johnson doesn’t face a fine or any other sanctions for speaking out about wanting to play for Dallas or Miami or any team because it’s not considered tampering, according to the NFL Players Association.
Carl Francis, communications director for the NFLPA, told me today that Chad is free to speak his mind.
“He can have open discussion about who his favorite teams are and who he’d like to play for one day,” Francis said. “It doesn’t have anything to do with tampering.”
Francis said there’s “no fallout” from Chad asking Bill Parcells — the Miami Dolphins’ executive vice president of football operations — to dial him up.
FIRST OPEN LOCKER ROOM OF 2008
First things first. Head coach Marvin Lewis addressed the team on “The Chad Johnson Situation” as the Bengals kicked off their 13-week offseason workout program on Monday morning, March 24.
Chad has been trumpeting the fact he wants out of Cincinnati. As expected, Chad was a no-show for the start of the workouts.
Lewis’ message: Don’t worry about Chad. Worry about yourselves. Control what you can control. And that’s improving your core strength and flexibility, and bonding with your teammates in your attempt to make the roster.
“There are a lot of different things and variables that occur (with players),” Lewis said. “Whatever occurs, this is professional football. You’ve got to deal with it in your way. They’re all in little different situations. So they have to make sure that this time is utilized in the correct way for them to prosper.”
Lewis said, “Yes, I’ve talked to Chad a few times. I don’t need to weigh in on what my conversations with Chad are. My conversations with Chad this year have been no different than they were a year ago.
“Our football team will be fine, one way or another. We’ll be put together correctly in the way we need to be (in order) to be productive and prosperous.”
ODELL THURMAN UPDATE
Linebacker Odell Thurman has been working out at Paul Brown Stadium in an attempt to be reinstated after a two-year suspension for violating the league’s Substance Abuse Policy.
“He’s been working with the strength staff and doing what he’s supposed to do, and that’s what he needs to do,” Lewis said. “I don’t evaluate how he looks. That’s got nothing to do with … he’s doing what he needs to do.”
IN THE FOLD
Wide receiver Glenn Holt and linebackers Rashad Jeanty and Corey Mays signed one-year contracts as “exclusive rights free agents.”
The Bengals held the exclusive rights of all three players, whose contracts expired after two seasons.
Additionally, the club waived cornerback Brandon Williams.
QUICK HITTERS
—-CARSON PALMER: “I’m very excited to be back; excited to get going. You don’t really get that last season’s bad taste out of our mouth really until the first win of this upcoming year.”
—-OH, HENRY: In speaking at length with wide receiver Chris Henry, I was struck by his demeanor. He seems more mature and committed to being a successful player. With a girlfriend and two children at home, Henry has “settled down.” He knows if he has one more scrape with the law, he’s out of the NFL for good.
—-SAMOAN CONNECTION: It’s official: Jonathan Fanene is a defensive tackle. He’s beefed up to 300 pounds, and he’s ready to be a force in the middle of the defensive line. “If they put me and Domata (Peko) inside, I’m telling you, it’s over.”
Email cludwig@daytondailynews.com
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: Bengals
Readers react to Chad, NCAA tourney & Favre
Loved these e-mails I received over the weekend regarding Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson, the NCAA Tournament and Brett Favre.
Here they are with my responses.
FROM PHILLY FAN JIM:
Lito Sheppard and a second-round draft pick for Chad??? The Eagles better be smoking some good stuff to do that.
Lito Sheppard straight up would be iffy for that exploding time bomb
Sheppard is one of the top corners in the league when healthy. But he’s been injured the last two years. Those injuries are a broken collarbone and dislocated elbow.
As an Eagles Fan, I would love to have a great wide receiver, but that guy looks like he’s going to explode soon.
Scary stuff you got going on over there.
—-The Chickster’s response: The Eagles are looking to move Lito. Let him come to Cincy and let Philly have T.O.’s clone.
FROM PETE IN MIAMISBURG:
As always, great article Chick!
It’s too bad Chad has thin skin.
Just think if he was in the New York media!
Also, you’re right. It started with “Doc’s” article …. and that’s a shame!
—-The Chickster’s response: You’re right. Chad has thin skin. “Doc” was just doing his job. Chad saw it as a crutch … and an excuse to want out.
FROM AIR FORCE SCOTT:
Hi Chick. Love your coverage of the Bengals and enjoy hearing you on the radio, too.
I do not understand your point in the “Audible Commentary” today.
I’m sure you are poking fun at Mike Brown, but I just don’t get it.
Are you suggesting he should sell the team? Are you suggesting that if he got rid of Chad he might as well clean house? Or are you suggesting that the players mentioned (including David Pollack) are bad for the team synergy? Are you referring to continued ineptness by the franchise in handling players contracts and free agency?
Sorry —- I just didn’t get it.
—-The Chickster’s response: I am simply suggesting that Mike Brown “clean house.” And it starts with trading Chad Johnson.
FROM BRUCE IN LEBANON, OH:
Hi Chick. It’s been a while since I’ve sent you a note, and I’ve been reading your thoughts —- which are great.
I am finding that I do not enjoy March Madness like I used to. These kids are so over-coached, and the games drag on eternally.
On Saturday, the last 5 minutes of the Xavier-Purdue game took 34 minutes! Between TV time-outs and the endless coach’s time-outs, it is a frustrating experience. If it’s true that you learn from mistakes …I don’t know how college players learn anything because 1 mistake & you are sitting.
Great take on “Coach K” and Duke —- OVERRATED!!!
Glad that Brett Favre retired.
I would have loved to watch him play on, but my view on players sticking around changed when I saw Earl Campbell 2 years ago at the Kirk Herbstreit Challenge. Earl was in a wheel chair & looked very old. He can’t be more than in his mid-50s. Let Brett enjoy life.
—-The Chickster’s response: College basketball is the most “over-coached” sport in the land with greasy-haired coaches orchestrating their puppet-players from the sidelines. As I wrote last week: Coach K and John Thompson III are overrated. I’d rather have a root canal, a fork stuck in my eye and my fingernails pulled with pliers than be subject to watching a Georgetown game. Thompson attempts to run the Princeton offense with thoroughbreds. I say let the horses run! Congrats to Davidson for exposing the Hoyas as frauds. One other thing: To see Campbell, the “Tyler Rose,” in a wheel chair is terribly sad. He’s only 53 years old. Earl Christian Campbell’s birthday: 3-29-55.
Email cludwig@daytondailynews.com
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: Bengals
The beginning of the end for Chad
For Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson, the beginning of the end came on Oct. 21, 2007.
Early that day, long before the Bengals defeated the visiting New York Jets, 38-31, sports columnist Paul Daugherty of The Cincinnati Enquirer showed “face up” on driveways and doorsteps throughout the Tri-State.
In “Doc’s” column, he asked two questions.
One: “Would the Bengals be better off with Johnson as he is now — and has always been?”
Two: “Or in the long run, would they be better off without him?”
The questions were excellent, legitimate and fair.
But Chad didn’t see it that way. One word kept repeating over and over in his mind like a broken record: “Betrayal.”
You see, Daugherty authored the book, “CHAD: I Can’t Be Stopped” — published by Orange Frazer Press in Wilmington, Ohio, the same company that published my book, “The Legends, Cincinnati Bengals: The Men, The Deeds, The Consequences.”
Walking out of the locker room that day, Chad told me that he was hurt by the writer he felt closest to. He had let “Doc” into his life, had allowed him to meet his family; had opened himself up and allowed “Doc” to peer into his heart, his soul, his mind.
The timing of the story was critical … the Bengals had just lost four straight games and in one of them —- the 34-13 Monday Night home loss to the New England Patriots —- Chad admittedly ran a wrong route that led to a late-second-quarter interception, which triggered a very heated, very animated and very public display of anger between Johnson and quarterback Carson Palmer that spilled from the field, to the sideline and on the walk into the locker room at halftime.
Tensions were already running high that October Sunday for other reasons, too.
Bengals fans had been vocal in their criticism of Johnson all week long on sports talk shows, saying Johnson’s on-field antics were wearing thin.
Then prior to kickoff, ESPN’s Chris Mortensen sparked controversy when he said on “Sunday NFL Countdown” that sources within the Bengals organization told him that Johnson could be trade bait in the offseason.
After the game, Chad exited the locker room without speaking to the assembled media. In the hallway outside the weight room, Chad conducted his weekly “Chad’s Corner” interview for Channel 19, the local FOX affiliate, then split — but not before speaking to me in a whisper about how hurt he felt by “Doc’s” column.
I am firmly convinced that that night, Chad made up his mind that he wouldn’t be a Cincinnati Bengal come the autumn of 2008.
“Check with me tomorrow,” Chad said. “I’ll give you one of those Barbara Walters’ exclusives.”
And he did. In the parking lot. Next to his car. Underneath some concrete protection from a heavy rain, my tape recorder whirred for nearly 20 minutes.
It was Oct. 22, 2007 … the last time we spoke.
And as he drove away, I wondered if we would ever have another one-on-one again.
I’m still wondering …
The reason I’m bringing this up NOW is because the Bengals start their offseason workout program on Monday, March 24, and for the first time in eight years, Chad plans to skip it.
He’s been screaming all off-season that he wants to be traded. So far, his cry has fallen on deaf ears … or has it?
Surely, Bengals management has to know that an unhappy Chad will poison and fracture the locker room.
How can he come back? How can he look his teammates in the eye and tell them he’s a team player, that he was just joking around about wanting out?
The fact is … he can’t. And the Bengals’ management and coaching staff know it.
I look for Chad to be traded prior to or during the April 26-27 NFL draft.
Here’s a look back at … CHAD JOHNSON’S “BARBARA WALTERS’ EXCLUSIVE” (Originally published on Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2007) By Chick Ludwig Staff Writer
CINCINNATI — Standing next to his Mercury Marauder in the parking lot at Paul Brown Stadium, Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson didn’t hold back. He poured out his emotion as rain pelted his sleek, black sedan.
Q. ESPN reported you could be traded. How frustrating is it to deal with? A. Frustrating? You think I’m frustrated? Are you watching me play? You can’t play at the same time you’re frustrated. My mind is so clear right now it’s unbelievable. I’m so focused right now it’s unbelievable. Nothing can steer or deter me away from producing and doing what I can to help us win, at all. Nothing. So it’s easy.
Q. What’s your reaction to those who suggest the team might be better off without you? A. I have none. It doesn’t hurt at all. An old team’s trash is another team’s treasure. You’ve got 31 teams in the NFL beside us, and every player, every coach, loves eighty-five. I guarantee that. Every coach and every player would love to have eighty-five on their team because they know what I bring to the table. I bring a different spectrum of playing football to the table.
Q. Where’s all this outside negativism coming from? A. I guarantee you it’s not the fans that sit in our stadium. You know what’s so funny about this? The whole thing is we are mad about a player — not one that gets in trouble, not one that’s in the news for negative stuff. We’re mad at somebody that loves the game, that’s having fun and enjoying himself. When it gets to that point, that’s when I have to put my defense on. Since I’ve been here. I’ve always been about pleasing the people around me, including this city — bringing something to this city they haven’t had in years. YEARS! You’ve never had excitement like this in years. Never had a personality like this. And you’re going to tell me you’re tired of something you’ve never had before? This (stadium) sells out every week.
Q. What if you are trade bait? A. So be it. Believe me. So be it.
Q. Do you want out of Cincinnati? A. No, I’m here. I didn’t say it. Don’t ask me. Go ask (Bengals management). It doesn’t matter where Chad Johnson is. Chad Johnson is going to get it done.
Q. Are you happy here? A. Of course. I’m smiling. As long as I’m smiling, I’m happy.
Q. If the team was 4-2 and not 2-4, would this be an issue? A. Probably not. But I’m an easy target. Perception is not reality. You know what you see on the field is not me off the field. Everything I’ve done has always been positive, It’s always been fun. It’s never been a me-me-me thing. It’s how Chad plays the game. I celebrate. It is a dirty business. And to get the business side of it off my mind, I go out and have fun with it like I’m a little kid. That’s all it is. It’s the NFL. But I’m playing like it’s the back yard. And I’m wrong because I’m not the norm.
Q. Would you be a different receiver for another club, like, say, New England? A. No. Of course not. That’s the reason he (Patriots coach Bill Belichick) loves me. He loves me because I’m me. BECAUSE I’M ME. Because of what I bring to the game.
Q. Head coach Marvin Lewis call you a team player. Well, are you? A. I’ve always been. Some of the things that are being said are just so ridiculous, man. I think it’s because I’m completely out of the norm of what a receiver should be. I’m the only person that plays and talks and does the things he does, but at the same time I’m very, very productive. I cannot perform at a high level and not be Chad. It’s impossible.
Q. Are you going to change? A. No, you know that. You know I am not going to change. You’re not going to stop me from being me, from having fun.
Q. Are you selfish? A. When you have a receiver that doesn’t want the ball. that’s the receiver you don’t want on your team. You have to have a confidence about yourself and your game. You’ve got to feel you can defeat that person in front of you. You’ve got to want it. That’s just how you have to be. But everyone approaches their game differently, and that’s what I’ve come to understand. That’s why I’ve slowed down on the bulletin board material.
Q. Did you quit on a route that led to a Carson Palmer interception in Kansas City? A. No. We didn’t connect on it. That’s all. I’m not going to say it was his fault or mine. I was where I needed to be.
Q. Are you worried that your ‘entertainer’ label detracts from your greatness as a receiver? A. I’d rather you remember Chad the entertainer. I’m doing the same stuff the great ones did, what they’ve done or are still doing. But I’m bringing you another spectrum of the game my way — at the same time producing the way they did. When are people going to see that? I am producing year in and year out, and I’m only going to get BET-TER.
Q. How long can you keep improving? A. Until I’m 40. My passion, my love, my fear of failure is going to keep me driving. It’s going to keep me going. I’m rare because I approach it a different way. You know behind closed doors how many hours of film I’ve studied? They (the fans) don’t get to see that part. I don’t even want them to know that part because that’s common sense. As an NFL player, you’re suppose to work hard.
Q. How do you want to be remembered? A. As one of the greatest to ever play the game. I will be. I will be one of the greatest to ever play the game. My way. Chad’s way.
Contact Chick Ludwig at (937) 225-2253 or cludwig@DaytonDailyNews.com
Permalink | Comments (36) | Post your comment | Categories: Bengals
TE Utecht officially a Bengal
‘BIG BEN’ UTECHT IN THE JUNGLE
It’s official. Tight end Ben Utecht is the newest member of the Cincinnati Bengals.
Friday night’s midnight deadline came and went without the Indianapolis Colts matching the three-year, $9 million offer sheet Utecht signed with the Cincinnati a week ago.
The week-long vigil ended Saturday morning when the Bengals announced Utecht is coming to the ‘Nati.
Utecht will be catching passes from quarterback Carson Palmer in 2008 after three years of hooking up with the Colts’ Peyton Manning.
I’m looking forward to meeting Utecht on Monday, March 24, when the Bengals begin their offseason workout program at Paul Brown Stadium.
SNEAKY COLTS
Oh, those sneaky Colts. Bill Polian and Tony Dungy are Mavericks who never, ever tip their hands. They were content to take their decision on Utecht right up to midnight and right down to the wire. But the Colts couldn’t afford to keep Utecht after dropping $40 million on tight end Dallas Clark, and the Bengals were able to wrestle Utecht away from Indy.
Indy offered Utecht the lowest possible one-year deal for a restricted free agent at $927,000 —- his draft level status, Had the Colts tendered him at $1.4 million, they would have received a second-round draft choice as compensation.
Instead, no compensation is required on the Bengals’ part because Utecht entered the league as a non-drafted college free agent.
It was a shrewd move by the Bengals, who haven’t attempted to wrestle an RFA away from another club in head coach Marvin Lewis’ five previous seasons.
Utecht, a 6-foot-6, 251-pounder from the University of Minnesota, caught 31 passes for 364 yards and one TD in 14 games with 13 starts in 2007.
His career statistics include 77 catches for 861 yards (an 11.2-yard average) and three TDs in 41 games with 30 starts, including a start in the Colts’ 29-17 victory over Chicago in Super Bowl XLI.
HUGE RAMIFICATIONS
Utecht’s signing is important for four reasons.
He gives the Bengals their first 30-catch tight end since Tony McGee (34) in 1997.
He saves the Bengals from spending a draft pick on a tight end when the NFL draft unfolds April 26-27.
He adds another potent weapon to the Bengals’ already strong passing game.
He will be a pillar of the community.
BIG BEN & RUGGED REGGIE
Yes, Utecht and incumbent starter Reggie Kelly are going to get along just fine as tight ends for the Bengals.
They complement one another perfectly … on and off the field.
Reggie is the bruising blocker; Ben is the raucous receiver.
Reggie is the club’s spiritual leader; Ben is a Christian rock recording artist.
Utecht, who is due to release a record of Christian music, will surely be a community service champion.
Utecht sang the national anthem at a Colts-Bills preseason game in 2004, then hooked up with Christian music star Sandi Patty for a duet in front of a 100,000 spectators in downtown Indianapolis.
For an interview with Utecht, go to StripeHype.com
Contact Chick Ludwig at (937) 225-2253 or cludwig@daytondailynews.com
Permalink | Comments (3) | Post your comment | Categories: Bengals
A sneak, a pair of no-shows and a charity toss
OH, THOSE SNEAKY COLTS
The Indianapolis Colts are, by far, the sneakiest team in the NFL.
Bill Polian and Tony Dungy are Mavericks who never, ever tip their hands.
The Colts’ brain trust appears to be content taking their decision on tight end Ben Utecht right down to the wire.
Indy has until midnight tonight —- Friday, March 21 —- to match the three-year, $9 million offer sheet Utecht signed with the Bengals a week ago.
If the deadline passes without a Colts’ move, then Utecht is a Bengal catching passes from Carson Palmer.
If the Colts’ match, then Utecht will once again be grabbing passes from the Colts’ Peyton Manning.
All I can say, folks, is please stayed tuned to “Ludwig At Large” for the latest in the Utecht saga.
Oh, and one other thing: If the Colts match, it’ll be a crushing blow to the orange-and-black striped crusaders.
SPORTING NEWS’ SPEED READ
“Ocho Cinco wants to be a Cowboy” and “Houshmadzadeh to skip workouts.” Have a nice spring, Bengals fans.
OFFSEASON WORKOUTS
The Bengals’ offseason workout program kicks off Monday, March 24, and this much is certain:
Pro Bowl wide rec