I've been told one is supposed to give thanks for stuff. I don't know· I always thought Thanksgiving was an excuse for my parents to lecture me about studying for midterms. However, in an attempt to capture the holiday spirit, I'll make like the Mayflower and give thanks for all that is right in my world.
1) The game against ASU
Look, I love UA as much as the next guy, but I need a little added incentive to get worked up for these matchups. So I usually have to start smack-talking with my few friends at ASU. For the past two seasons, I've taken a lot of crap from those a-holes, so it's time for the Wildcats to represent. Honestly guys, you need to win this. Not for the Territorial Cup, not for a year's worth of bragging rights, not for anything to do with you. You need to win so my picking you in EVERY game this season is somewhat vindicated. Help out a brotha. Beat the Devils. So, I'm thankful that my boys will get the opportunity to finally prove me right.
2) Thanksgiving with the Lions
The main reason I'm a Lions fan is because of their turkey-day games. Honestly, how can you not love the Lions, especially in the midst of an 0-and-8 season? All of my memories of Thanksgivings past involve that mutant turkey that John Madden has, fights over the remote and bad Detroit teams pounding opponents in the Silverdome. So thank you Charlie Batch, Johnnie Morton and James Stewart (hopefully) for giving me at least one win this season in advance.
3) Lute Olson
Nothing changes with this guy - his hair, his expression or the success of his teams. I know, I know, coaches shouldn't get all the credit, but I don't know if there are too many guys in this country who could take a team this young and beat Maryland, Florida and Texas. He's one hell of a coach, and he should be given a lifetime contract like Coach K. Much love, my silver-coiffed friend. Keep it up.
4) Jason Gardner
I'm not stupid - I know Jason would much rather be in the NBA right now, but I'm glad it didn't work out because he's back here and better than ever. I used to be a member of the "stop shooting Jason" club, but he's been sizzling so far this year, so far be it for me to tell him to stop. Point Guard U lives, my friends. Jason, you'll be with Damon, Mike and J.T. in no time. Until then, keep bangin'.
5) The Indiana Pacers
My favorite basketball team is also the picture of predictability. Every season, I can take solace in the fact that my hero, Reggie Miller, will be launching up 30-footers that never miss. I also know that Reg will be running his yap to whomever he wants, and no one can do a thing about it.
6) Sports Illustrated
I know it sounds pretty silly, but I thank my lucky stars every day that I get a free subscription to S.I. through the Wildcat. If it weren't for them, I wouldn't be making this feeble attempt at carving out a sports journalism career. So to you, mighty Sports Illustrated, thanks for the inspiration. And a job next year would be nice, too.
7) The Rose Bowl
It's great knowing that every year, come hell or highwater, I can count on the best from the Pac-10 taking on the best from the Big 10· oh, that's right. Dammit, I hate the BCS.
