Random thoughts this Wednesday night while watching Game1 of the World Series:

*Shouldn't there be more national (sports) media attention paid to the fact that Tampa Bay's pitching coach is Jim Hickey? The same Jim Hickey who was the pitching coach for the Astros in the 05' World Series? Such a difference situation for him with the Rays. He had two old guys in Pettitte and Clemens who got rocked in the Series. Now he's got a handful of hurlers younger than 26. Does this mean he's a really good teacher, or just understands the talent he has, regardless of age and lets them do their things? I dunno. By the way, there is a common denominator between the two staffs. It's Dan Wheeler. Yes, Dan Wheeler. FYI--Phillies' closer Brad Lidge was Hickey's closer that year. He took two losses that post-season. He has yet to blow a save all year this year. ... I wonder what Ezequiel Astacio is up to these days...

*How good are the Tennessee Titans, really? They're the only undefeated team in the NFL, but their six wins are against teams who have won a total of like 5 games. Or so it seems. The Packers and Cowboys are both 4-3 and the Steelers are 5-1 and I think all three of those teams could beat the Titans. Hey, the Panthers are a 5-win team as well, they're playing good ball, too. I'm not sold on Jeff Fisher's team yet. But I do love the fact that Kerry Collins is STILL better than Vince Young. (ever heard the story about how before Collins was drafted, he was at some awards banquet, shared a limo with Steve Young, then puked on Young's shoes inside the car?) Google it.

*I read an article about Missouri quarterback Chase Daniel (former Heisman trophy candidate until he threw 3 picks against Okla. St.) claiming Daniel had both Tee Martin AND Chris Weinke's cell no's in his phone. What?! Why? For wisdom?! That would be like if Leo DiCaprio sought acting advice from Robert Patrick and Tom Berenger!...hmmm...if those two collaborated on a project what would it be? Perhaps a "think-piece" about a security guard and a corporate middle man whose personal lives become intertwined at a chance meeting in a bar. Throw in a stripper, a gun-fight, and some force-fed social agenda message and you've got Oscar gold! Is there a salsa out there that has carrots in it? Seems to me the heat from chile peppers and acidity of the tomatoes would go well with the sweetness of carrots. I gotta check that out.

*This just in, Cole Hamels is solid. Another 7 strong innings. Best lefty in the bigs? Perhaps? Placement, power, pitch selection. Tough.

*Bama/Tennessee this weekend. I've yet to figure out why Tide fans are worried. Right now, Alabama's a 6.5 point favorite. If had any money to bet, I'd feel fine putting it on the Tide. 41-17 last year. Could be that way again this year. That's IF UT can actually score 17 points. Two defensive TDs last week against Miss. St. turned a close game in the 4th quarter into a blowout. Anyone have any fun golfing stories? I've got some great ones about my uncle. One involves an unset parking break, a curb, and alot of yelling! Would love to hear any anecdotes from any of you! Gotta get back to the game--it's going to the 9th!