Hard Knocks

After a six-year hiatus, HBO's excellent Hard Knocks series has returned to television this season. For the uninitiated, Hard Knocks is a behind-the-scenes look at life in training camp for a professional football team. This season's subject is the Kansas City Chiefs. Previous subjects included the Baltimore Ravens and the Dallas Cowboys.

Even though I'm not a fan of the Chiefs, I find the subject matter so compelling that I watch religiously each week as the drama unfolds. The series does an excellent job of showing the human side of life in professional sports; particularly for those sacrificing their bodies for the dream of making a professional football roster. In addition, viewers get a peek at the work that goes into preparing to compete in a sixty minute NFL contest. If you've ever wondered what meetings are like, what the coaches and player personnel men think, how practices are conducted, what players do while not practicing at training camp, and what professional football players are really like as people, then this series is for you.

I can also heartily recommend Next Man Up: A Year Behind the Lines in Today's NFL, by John Feinstein. It is a book that covers much of the same material broached by Hard Knocks, except it extends through the entire length of a season. Even though the book chronicles the hated Baltimore Ravens (well, hated by me - a Browns fan - anyway), it is excellent reading.

If you're fan of the NFL, you need to spend time with this excellent material. You'll see the game in a way you may not have considered previously.

My Quick Update Too!

Wow. It's been awhile. Even Kevin thinks I'm MIA.

I've been catching up with friends and family this week before I start my new job on a full time basis. I've been going in once a week just to get acclimated. The other day, I was asked to submit the hours I've work thus far. I asked if I could just take "comp" time (since their vacation policy sucks) and was told, "you're getting both." This left me speechless. I finally muttered "thank you" and believe me, it was more than sincere. There was shock in that muttering as well. So far so good. I'm actually excited to start full time. My office is pretty sweet, has a large window overlooking trees, and everyone has been very nice. I advised my boss that I'd need to leave early or come in late a couple days in the next few months, as I've got these certification exams going on. He said, 'You're salary. Don't worry about it.'

Last Monday, I was scheduled to take my first of three Microsoft exams. I am a horrible test taker. I've always done pretty well with essay questions but that's not what these exams are about. Anyway, I passes exam 70-306 and am now an MCP - Microsoft Certified Professional. I'm on my way slowly but surely. One test down, two to go...

I'm meeting some friends for lunch today, gathering with my old co-workers at the Blue Moose tomorrow night, hitting Crocker Park with another friend on Saturday (and the Cheesecake Factory), and looking forward to the nice, long holiday weekend.

Quick Update

It's been a while since I've posted... Soccer's in full swing, as is softball, plus school just started, and I still have new-hires at work (we lost one, so I'm down to 30, with one more probably to go tomorrow). I'm a busy guy!

I just finished my NASCAR 08 review and submitted it Gameshark. It could be posted anywhere from tomorrow to after Labor Day, given the way it's gone in the past, LOL. NASCAR is a good game. It's got some warts, but hardcore racers and NASCAR fans will like it, methinks.

The Tribe is hanging on. They have their biggest lead of the year right now, after winning 4 in a row. There's still plenty of baseball to play, though.

The Crew did draw against West-leading Houston last weekend, which was a good performance, especially since they were down a man. Hey, it's almost September, and they're still alive, so I guess I can't complain. Fulham is still struggling, but the season has just started. I can still be optimistic, although that may not be very realistic...

College football kicks off this week! Go Bucks! Go Zips!

Lastly, I haven't heard from Kelly in a while. I hope the new job is going well!

Monday Musings

It was another tough weekend for me as a sports fan.

First of all, my all-time favorite soccer player, Brian McBride, suffered a dislocated knee while taking a shot unmarked from about 5 yards out. It was definitely a freak injury. Brian is 35 years old, and probably doesn't have many more matches in him. He is a US soccer legend, and a great man and human being, by all accounts. I wish him a speedy recovery (he's slated to be out 3 months), and I hope I get the chance to see him hit at least one more of those magnificent headers into the back of the net before he's done. What a shame...

The Crew, currently barely occupying the last playoff spot in the MLS Cup, turned in another listless effort in a 2-0 loss to DC United Saturday night. Watching this team is like riding a roller coaster - one the goes from sucking, to unbelievably great, to sucking again.

Charlie Frye, a fellow Akron alum, is being set up to fail in Cleveland for "golden boy" Brady Quinn (I've never liked Brady; like his college coach, I've always found him disingenuous and smug, like he thinks he's better than everyone). Frye has never really had the full support of the Browns, nor has he had solid talent around him. They've jerked him around from the end of last season with Anderson, who has shown nothing in his limited time. Yet, he gives his all to the team in an effort to win (how many athletes truly do that anymore?). They'll let him take another beating early this year, until the line gels, and then bring in the "Golden Boy" to save the day. And, like most over matched rookies, he'll probably fall on his face, and the Browns will be back to square one of an expansion franchise. You have to be EXCEPTIONAL to succeed as a rookie, and I truly doubt that Quinn is of that caliber. I honestly hope Charlie gets let go, because he needs a fresh start and a change of scenery, with an organization that will give him a fair shake. Also, it would hardly be fair to throw Quinn to the dogs, much like they did to Couch, and to Frye. At least show some restraint, and take the appropriate amount of time to develop a QB, for a change...

At least the Tribe are in first place. For now...

I've been playing NASCAR 08 the last few days. I have some impressions going over at the Sports Gaming Nation. I really like it thus far, but I have a long way to go.

I'm really excited because I think I've just about settled on a slider set that brings an appropriate level of realism back into NCAA Football 08. I've had only one interception by my defense against the CPU QB's in the last three games (all wins by me, by the way). I still have to tweak my pass blocking and the CPU's running game, but I'm really enjoying the action on the field right now, six games into my dynasty.

I still have 3 Xbox 360 games that I haven't even played! Man, I need more time...

Closer and Closer to Counting Crows New CD

I read it on the Internet so it must be true! (Yes, I’m kidding but I’m also quite hopeful!)

Rumor has it that Counting Crows new CD entitled Saturday Night/Sunday Morning will be available November 6th ! It could be true as new releases are done on Tuesdays since sales figures are released on Mondays.

Even though Adam hates that this happened (Immy, on the other hand, was flattered it appeared on YouTube the very next day), and that people like me spread the word, you can catch a performance of the first single, Cowboys. (I read the name of the first single in his blog along with some other tracks but this is the song I wanted to hear the most. If you’re familiar with “Goodnight Elisabeth,” then you know the lyrics: “we couldn’t all be cowboys, so some of us are clowns.” You knew right then and there that Cowboys was just begging to be written by A.D.) He’s a lyrical genius. You can catch the performance at AnnaBegins.com.

Here are the lyrics too, courtesy of Lisa’s Counting Crow Shrine…

Ah, November 6th! And the countdown begins…(I wonder if I should take that day off work…)

The Pony Express has Arrived

Finally... Yesterday afternoon, I got my copy of NASCAR 08. I'll be digging in as virtual Ricky Bobby pretty heavily this weekend.

Also, I picked up Madden 08 and Call of Duty 3. Toys R Us has a pretty sweet deal, where if you buy Madden 08 you get another game at half price, so I took advantage. I've got a lot of games to play, and I need to start carving out some time! With football about to start, the baseball playoffs being imminent, the EPL kicking off, and the MLS in the stretch run, plus school going back, kids' sports, and 31 new-hires at work, I'm a busy man! Man, I need a nap...

Punch to the Gut

Ugh. What a horrible sports weekend...

My two favorite soccer clubs, the Columbus Crew and Fulham Football Club (in the English Premiership) both blew games that they controlled for about three-fourths of the match. Fulham's just kicking off their season, and there were plenty of positives, so maybe there's something to build on. The Crew, on the other hand, are in a battle for their playoff lives. They blew a 2-1 lead in the last 15 minutes, despite being up a man! Makes me want to puke...

And, to top it off, the crummy Indians just got swept by the Yankee$. I can take it anymore! Why do I watch sports? Nothing good ever comes of it, and I just get upset.

At least the Browns won. Oh yeah, it was pre-season, and they didn't score an offensive touchdown (neither did KC, by the way). At least Charlie Frye (an Akron grad, like me) was 12-15 for over 120 yards. That's mitigated by the two freshman-in-high-school mistakes he made by throwing a dreadful lateral that was returned for a TD by KC and getting tackled at the 3 yard line to run out the clock at the end of the first half.

I guess I should become a USC fan. They seem like a lock to win the National Championship this year. Of course, if I do, they're guaranteed to blow it.

This sucks.

Hot Shots Tennis Review is Posted

For the particulars, check out the review at Gameshark. I'm still waiting on NASCAR 08, although I haven't checked today's mail.

The Waiting Game

The posts have been a little less frequent. Not coincidentally, my son's travel soccer practice has kicked off, eating up some precious "Kevin time" most evenings.

A quick update on the video gaming front… I submitted my Hot Shots Tennis review last week, and I'm still waiting on it to get posted. It should happen this week. Believe it or not, niche PS2 games aren't the highest of priorities at Gameshark! NASCAR 08 has been "in the mail" since last week. I'm not sure what the hold up is, but I'm chomping at the bit to get at that game. Long live Ricky Bobby!

On the sports front, I'm anxiously watching both my Indians and my Crew limp along with playoff hopes. They are both teetering on the brink, but fortunately, neither are out of contention. Brady Quinn finally signed for the Browns. Yawn. Goodbye next year's number one pick, hello Heath Schuler part two. I don't think the Browns will ever climb the mountain.

College football is inching closer and closer! I think the Buckeyes will surprise this year, due to a relatively favorable schedule, and the fact that "Tressel Ball" seems to work better when the coach has a group made up of primarily over-achievers. We're back to the punt being "the most important play in football." Hey, I won't complain, as long as he keeps getting those W's and beating those pukes up north. Although, it looks like scUM will get a measure of revenge this year, with the loaded team they have returning.

The Zips have a lot of holes to fill, but anything can happen in the MAC. Plus, they weren't that great with the hole-fillers that were on the roster last year, so I guess I'll remain optimistic. Unless, however, they lose to Army, after which I will never root for them again… at least until the next game. I mean, really, what should I expect? Success? I'm an Ohio sports fan, for crying out loud!

Prelude To My First Half-Day

Just to solidify my week, feel more attached to my new employer and less attached to the old one, I sent a very brief e-mail to my new supervisor. It basically reiterated the fact that per our last discussion, I would be there on Friday, early, working a half – day.

His response was a little more detailed. It stated I would be having lunch with him, two other team members (who I’ve already met), the company attorney (a woman, and also the owner’s daughter), and the Chief Administrative Officer. That’s a pretty full first half-day. (And, we’re having lunch at, I kid you not, a sports bar located right next to a biker bar. And yes, in case you were wondering, I’ve been to both.)

The e-mail response also included a note to give my boss a call, which I did, fairly promptly (because one should never seem too anxious)! During the course of that call, I was advised I’d already been signed up for a seminar, all day, next month, downtown, regarding Workers’ Compensation. My friend just got a job downtown so I’m wondering if we can meet for lunch. That’s probably not what should be running through my head but nonetheless, it was.

I was also advised (forewarned) not to park in the “designated” parking spaces, as it’s a pet peeve, so to speak (OK. Well, not on my FIRST day anyway…)

I’ll probably spend the first day setting up my office (that’s one plant, one picture of me and my friend with the Goo Goo Dolls, my mirror, lip gloss, nail file, and lint remover, along with the static guard, band aids, Purell, hand lotion, and an emergency stash of…FOOD). Then, and only then I’ll log on, advise all my friends of my new work e-mail address and phone number, and I get to sit with the IT guy. Oh yeah, I’m going to learn as much as I can from him. I already have his name committed to memory. Can you ever learn enough from your IT people? I may have one of my programming books lying around for good measure. Maybe he’ll be able to explain the “Try,” “Catch,” and “Finally” statements I’m perplexed by in my programming course!

Of course, that could be wishful thinking on my part!

Slider Guru

No, I'm not talking about "Slider," the mascot of the Cleveland Indians. Although, it is his 17th birthday today. Allow me to digress to a true story...

Seventeen years ago today, I was home after my freshman year of college working at the local YMCA. A friend of mine from high school (who was a year older than me), also worked there. His dad was my history teacher in high school, and I was good friends with the family. On a day off, my friend, his dad, and I decided to attend a scheduled double-header in Cleveland Municipal Stadium against the Yankees. They were both serious Yankees fans, while I supported my Tribe. As usual in those days, the Yankees destroyed the Tribe in game one. Seeking consolation, I leaned over to my friend and remarked that we at least didn't have one of those stupid mascots. In between games one and two, lo and behold, the Indians introduced Slider to the home town faithful. Yep, this is what it's like to be a fan of Cleveland sports...

Back to the topic. My editor and friend Bill Abner is as much or more of a fan of EA's NCAA Football games series as I am. He's also an OSU alum, which makes him cool. Anyway, I've been patiently on hold in my Dynasty waiting for him to come up with the "perfect" set of game play sliders to fix the doggone interception problem. It appears he has! I'm looking forward to starting my Dynasty up again, now that I just submitted my Hot Shots Tennis review. I've never played on Heisman level regularly, so I imagine that will suck. But hey, I'm used to it, look at how my Indians are doing now.

Gainfully Employed But With a Price and an Attitude

After my second interview, I was feeling pretty excited and extremely relieved. The job offer was on its way to me via e-mail. I was talking to some close friends and close co-workers about the new direction my life was taking once again. It’s hard to think clearly when you realize you’re going to be able to bank all your severance, not skip a beat when it comes to a paycheck, and probably have the iPhone by Christmas!

So there was my office, with a window, a flat panel monitor, a phone with my name programmed into it (so they can monitor my phone calls...I know), and business cards on the way. Everyone is friendly, they all appear to be smiling and generally pretty happy to be there.

The money was right where I needed it to be. There would be a 90-day review of performance and salary (not bad, right?) and a yearly review of both after that. I only had two questions left. The answers sucked both the excitement and relief of finding this job right out of me. It also set me up with an entire batch of new problems. In my mind, I’m trying to work them all out before they even happen. Everything seemingly appears to be manageable, and then I wake up. I’m solving all my issues in my dreams but need to figure out how to make that a reality. Honestly, they don’t give you much to work with.

Two very important things for me are vacation and sick time, and I inquired about both. The answers were the worst I’d received since I’d started interviewing. While I’d rather be working than be sick, a migraine can pretty much take me down for the count and I happen to be prone to them. Truthfully, if you want me to be on top of my game when I’m at work, you’re going to have to give me time off to play and time off to recuperate when ill. Both numbers were surprisingly low. (So I’m going to have to add them together in order to see any light at the end of the tunnel).

The best I can come up with after that is, I’ll be taking a few days without pay (not just to “bridge” the gap but to “bridge the gaping wound)! I’m perfectly OK with that. I just wonder if they’ll be perfectly OK with that? I didn’t ask. I got my foot in the door and now we’ll just take it one step at a time.

I’m also approaching this with a bit of an attitude. I know that sounds awful. I’m not an ingrate. I’m just a little “spoiled” at my current job. And yes, I’m also losing my current job. It’s like culture shock to leave one environment for another and, while I am definitely ready for a change, I’m certainly not ready for such a drastic one.

So, back to my attitude…

This 90-day review is a two-way street. So, if the pay increase isn’t as substantial as I’d like, and if the “time off” isn’t as flexible as I need, I can always look for something else. After all, I have no loyalty to this company at this time. (By the way, loyalty is really underrated these days, isn’t it?)

I’ll have completed school (I hope) and banked some money to live on (plus there’s the severance payment from my current job – AKA the “bridge” to get me from Point A to Point B. Or, in this case, Point B to Point C). While I’m hoping this is not the scenario that plays out, I just need to have a “Plan B” or “way out” if I need one.

Next, I have absolutely no desire to “personalize” my office. I just don’t want to get too comfortable. I want to go one day at a time and see how I feel after 90 days. I’ll work hard, prove my mettle, and I’ll come in with a great attitude on the outside. My insides will twist as my comfort and trust levels are more eschewed than usual these days. I am afraid to put any roots down.

Losing my current job has certainly done a number on me. I’d ask if this was normal but I have absolutely no idea what “normal” is. (Anyway, normal seems boring most of the time!) I faxed over my acceptance of the offer on Friday the 13th! It just seemed the right thing to do (as if tempting fate is ever on my side!) I signed the agreement on the 12th though as I’m not nearly as brave as I thought I was when it comes to fates and superstitions. (Just another thing I learned about myself along the journey…)

A friend pointed out long ago (when yet another crisis/tragedy/shoe feel) that I tend to “compartmentalize” my life. I definitely separate “work” and “home.” Somehow, it gives me balance. I’m not an “open book” but I’m not entirely a “closed book” either. I’m just cautious.

Finally, regarding the new job, they mentioned the Christmas party the company throws every year. As fate would have it, it’s held in the same building where I was advised that I’d be losing my job in 6 months. In my mind, I’m already out of town visiting someone, somewhere at that time. I’m sure, not even knowing the date of the party yet, that I have a previous commitment or prior engagement to attend. (How much do you want to bet the party is held not only in the same building but also in the same room? You KNOW it will be!)

Let me be perfectly honest here. With the miniscule vacation and sick leave they’re offering, there’s no way they’re getting one of my “free” nights.

NO WAY!

So let me properly end this missive and my cynicism with a quote from Sir Bobby Robson, English football manager and former international football player:

“You only get out of life what you put into it. If you don't work hard and
haven't got enthusiasm, nothing comes your way.”

Review News

I just got Hot Shots 2 for the PS2 in the mail on Monday. I'm posting some impressions over at the Sports Gaming Nation. The short version is that it appears to be more of a kids' game, and not real deep, but offering a pretty solid game of tennis.

The NASCAR 08 demo is out on Xbox Live. I'm waiting on my review copy, but if I don't get it soon, I'll probably d/l the demo this weekend and give it a ride.

I play a lot of racing games, but I honestly don't watch that much racing on TV. As silly as this sounds, Talladega Nights has me kid of excited for this game. Ironically, the combination of that silly (but great!) movie and a potentially solid title from EA may make me more of a racing fan. We'll see; but my interest is definitely piqued.

More to come on both titles soon...

Things I don't Like

I'm enjoying NCAA Football 08, but as usual, there are some issues that keep it from being the best game ever, despite the subject matter...

In no particular order, here are the things I don't like about it:

I can't sub by formation, meaning I can't pick who plays on special teams (other than the kicker and returners), who plays the LB in the dime package, etc.

I have to re-enter my settings each time I play a game in my Dynasty. NCAA used to save them in the game file, now it's tied somewhere else, and I have to figure out where...

There are too many interceptions. I'm good, but not THAT good. Too many INT's, and INT's returned for a touchdown. I just adjusted the slider (I'm playing on All American level), so we'll see if that helps (and if I have to adjust it each time - grr!). I just beat Indiana, primarily because they had EIGHT turnovers!

The interface is inefficient. I hate having to start in the shrine, or at the "website." Let me get to the menus, darn it! Plus, the menus move s-l-o-w-l-y...

As I mentioned previously, where are the drills? I hate it when features disappear as the game moves from one generation of hardware to the next.

The stadiums are always full, regardless of your average attendance. In past versions, I enjoyed watching the Rubber Bowl fill up as my teams got better and better. Now, every game is like the battle for the Wagon Wheel. Give me something to work for!

Those are the biggies so far. I'll probably be back to gushing about the game in my next few posts, now that these issues are off my chest. There's a lot to like, but man, why can't EA put a whole game together?! I guess I could ask that question of most developers...

Time Warner Offers No Apology For Their Lack of Customer Service

My living room television decided enough was enough and gave up the other day. I’ve wanted a new TV for a very long time so this was a good thing. (The timing, as usual, was dreadful!) I went to a local TV shop, and not only did they have the Sony flat panel I wanted (Bravia), they delivered it THAT DAY! I was pretty impressed. The salesperson was nice, knowledgeable, and ready to make a sale. He was a bit of a “close talker” which creeped me out but other than that, pleasant enough. The delivery guys, on the other hand, were the exact opposite. The two that arrived with my TV turned out to be the most unfriendly customer service people I had encountered is a very long time. It was obvious they didn’t want to haul my old television away (and I paid an $18.00 dumpster fee for that), or do any work in general. They weren’t rude, but the silence and the sighs spoke volumes. The basic instructions they gave for using the remote would have been better communicated to and by a four-year old. (And that is insulting some four-year olds!) I would soon learn that I needed to be grateful that they actually showed up.

Next on my list was a call to my cable company – good ol’ Time Warner. I asked them to come out with a new HD box and DVR. To offset that cost, I dropped a few movie channels. The customer service rep was very accommodating and scheduled the service between 1PM and 5PM on my day off. Great! Except no one showed up. The movie channels got cancelled and that’s all the rep did. So when I called to inquire as to why TW’s tech was a “no show”, this new customer service rep advised that their records indicate all of the items I requested were already taken care of - the day that I called. I laughed. I asked the rep how likely it was that TW would come out the same day I called? I also advised her I wasn’t paying for the new features so they’d best not be on my bill. (Actually, my monthly cost will be relatively unchanged but I was feeling snippy – and that’s putting it mildly.)

“When would be a good time for us to come back out?” I replied honestly with, “Now.”

We are “now” rescheduled for a Saturday appointment. (“That way you won’t have to take another day off work,” said the rep. Oh good, so now you’re going to ruin my weekend too? I didn’t say that – the thought just continually ran through my mind as I shook my head in disbelief that I was agreeing to ruin my Saturday.)

I absolutely love the last line TW’s reps are required to say: “Is there anything else I can help you with?” As if to imply they helped you with something in the first place. Still feeling snippy, my response was, “not unless you can get the service person to actually show up this time.” I laughed again. She said, “I have it on the computer.” Somehow that didn’t make me feel any better.

Now to be fair, I did admit to her I was annoyed and frustrated, that it was the other reps fault and not hers, but I’ve been waiting for 4 hours and honestly, I really don’t have a spare 4 hours these days. Does anyone?

I guess the one thing that I wanted that I didn’t get was an apology. A simple “I’m sorry for our mix up” or “I’m sorry for the inconvenience” or just a semi-sincere “I’m sorry.”

I got nothin’.



Everything that went wrong was totally due to TW’s customer service reps screwing it up. You would think, as a basic common courtesy, an apology would be offered. Apparently that is not instilled in their reps. Apparently they were never taught the concept either. Unfortunately, what became painfully obvious once more is the fact that they just don’t care. Just like the television delivery guys, they have better things to do and the job they are getting paid for isn’t one of them. (A very interesting concept – especially to someone in my current job predicament.)

While I was waiting for the TW tech to show up (again, he didn’t), I received a call from SBC Global. I started asking some questions (as I’m wireless and have my own modem and router.) This caused great confusion to the SBC rep. Supposedly the cost was $19.99 a month. I inquired as to HOW MANY months that fee was applicable. She said that was their standard rate and it wasn’t just for a couple months. I would however have to use their modem. I said I’d consider it and ended the call.

Honestly, I don’t want to have to change my e-mail address yet again. Maybe when things slow down I’ll give SBC Global a try.

At least when TW was named Adelphia, they showed up for appointments. In fact, one of Adelphia’s techs helped me out a great deal. I’m not expecting that kind of service from TW and I’m sure I won’t be disappointed. I guess I’ll have to be happy if they just show up, right?

So TW stood me up three times. I’m not kidding. Blame is placed entirely upon their customer service phone reps for not scheduling the appointments. When they finally did show, up they didn’t have the HD hook up! That means someone else would have to come out. I was stood up twice more. When I called Customer Service at TW, the girl I spoke with suggested I drive down to their office, pick up the missing cable and they’ll walk me through hooking it up, over the phone. I laughed at her and sweetly inquired, “Is that your idea of customer service?” Later, she offered me a $20.00 credit for my inconvenience and threatened to charge my account a $25.00 fee for making their techs come out again. I asked for a manager but was advised there was no manager available at this time. Unreal. They never did charge me. They never credited my account either.

TW finally got it right. They actually sent two service techs out. I bet they figured “safety in numbers” and I had been stood up too many times now. I had these techs laughing. They couldn’t believe what I had been through and that I was actually laughing about it. They were VERY grateful that I didn’t blame them for this mess. (As I clearly stated, blame falls on the phone reps for not scheduling the service). I told the techs, “You’re not going to know I need service if the phone reps don’t put it in the computer.” Not only did they hook everything up perfectly, they programmed the DVR for me, and offered to assist with any other issues I was having.

Even though Time Warner won’t apologize to me, I’m going to be the bigger person and apologize to them. (Plus it’s been awhile since I’ve put my gift of sarcasm to use.)

I’m sorry every time I have to deal with your PHONE reps.
I’m sorry your PHONE reps lack basic customer service skills.
I’m sorry your (my) Intranet is down at least twice a week (and it’s only Tuesday).
I’m sorry that you are my only choice for cable service. As soon as that changes, so will I.

Now, I’m off to write a letter about that $20.00 credit!

Building my Legend

More on Campus Legend mode...

Sadly, the drills are gone. However, when you "practice" in Legend mode, you get to run 10 plays. The coach calls the plays, and you play your position only. If you do something positive, you get points. In my case, as a RB, I get points for a first down, touchdown, big gain, catching a pass etc. If you get enough points, you can displace the guy ahead of you on the depth chart. I'm the starter now, so it's no big deal. I do practice every day, though, trying to master the controls.

After practice, you have an "evening" event. Often, you get to make a choice, and depending on the choice you make, you could augment your abilities, or get yourself in trouble. For example, on one occasion, I helped a buddy move, and then hurt my back! On another occasion, I turned down an offer to play hoops and stayed in to study, to the tune of +.01 to my GPA (uh, that wouldn't have happened in real life, LOL).

We're 2-0 to start the season. We beat a 1-AA team about 54-0, and I had over 200 yards rushing at about 10 yards per carry, and 4 TD's. I had one 86-yard run, and saved the highlight, but it was basically making one move and using my "99" speed to race to glory.

Just when I thought it might be too easy, we went to Eastern Carolina University. I assume that's a pretty intense regional rivalry, so I figured it might be a tougher game. It was raining, to boot. It was much harder sledding for me, as I only got about 77 yards on 26 carries. I did have 5 catches for over 50 yards, though, and a sweet 12 yard TD run through the trenches. I saved a highlight of that as well, since I carried about 3 guys on my back across the goal line! We won a hard-fought game 27-13. That was better; maybe Varsity isn't so easy - especially when I play the FSU's, NC State's, and Virginia's of the world. Time will tell.

I tried to upload my highlights, but I was unsuccessful. It seems that the server is having problems. I imagine they're getting bombarded with videos. I'll post it here if my highlights get uploaded.

I'm really enjoying this game. Bill Harris, of Dubious Quality, has some excellent commentary (no surprise) on his blog, and I highly recommend it.

I'm holding off on Dynasty mode, because I want to clear up some roster confusion first. I can't quite figure out who ALL of the players are on my team, and I'm a bit obsessive-compulsive about it. :-)

More to come...

It's Here!

NCAA Football 08 is now in it's rightful place in my Xbox 360. I removed the shrink wrap at approximately 3:47 PM, and subsequently spent about 4 hours with it throughout the rest of the evening. Here are some "gut reactions" to my experience.

Saving and uploading your personal highlights seems to be the big addition to this year's game, as you begin in your "shrine," where you can view your trophies and past moments of glory. It's a little different interface, and somewhat cumbersome, but obviously EA is trumpeting it's newest feature. I spent a little time examining what is and isn't available compared to last year's Xbox version, and most everything is there. The only thing I couldn't find was a way to do drills, which was one of the best ways to master the controls. I believe they're in the Campus Challenge mode, but they're not available off the menu, which is a bit of a disappointment.

Speaking of controls, the default controls are different, as the "hurdle" button is back and the sprint button has moved to the right trigger. On defense, "jump the snap" is now the left trigger, which feels a little awkward. As I mentioned previously, there's also new hit stick moves, and gang tackling, which looks pretty cool.

The rosters are definitely bigger. I spent about an hour-and-a-half editing my Zips. I was going to do the Buckeyes as well, but after 70 entries, it got kind of old. I just let the computer name the rest of my players.

After that, I began my first foray into the Campus Legend mode. I created myself as a running back, and proceeded to claim my high school's first state championship since 1985 (on varsity level). I was quite successful as a running back, and I was rated as a 5-star prospect. Almost everybody wanted my services, but only a few quality schools offered me a starting spot as a freshman. Despite his woeful performance as the Brown's coach, I decided to join Butch Davis at UNC. My speed is a 99! Methinks that varsity is a little too easy… I will begin my college campaign tonight, and confirm whether or not the drills are present. Otherwise, it looks pretty similar to last year's Xbox version, in terms of your daily activities and so forth. One major change is "super sim" mode, where you only participate when your player is on the field, and from your player's perspective. It's much like last year's Madden's superstar mode, and it's a welcome change. I should be able to progress through my four years much quicker this way. For the record, I'll also start a Campus Legend on All-American level, and I'll play my Zips' dynasty on All-American level, which I should begin tonight.

Other than getting accustomed to the controls, and the gang tackling, the other thing I noticed was that in my four-game run to the state championship, I can't recall one instance of "Mario running." Maybe it's because I covered up in traffic, which opened up a whole new set of animations, but it was a welcome change. Finally, you can hitch a ride on the hind end of one of your big hogs up front, and clear some space inside the tackles. We'll see how it goes at UNC.

Much much much much much more to come! :-)

My Roomba Reward

As I stated in a previous blog, I passed the exam for MS Access and obtained my MOS certificate. To my utter disappointment, Bill Gates did NOT sign my certificate. I know, I know. This really doesn’t seem like THAT big of a deal. Still, it would have been pretty cool to me. (Two Microsoft executives signed it.)

I also stated that I was going to REWARD myself for this little feat and, the iPhone seemed a tad bit indulgent. As it turns out, I have been the proud parent, uhm, make that owner, of a Roomba. (Yes, the self-vacuuming iRobot. It ROCKS!) I love Roomba. The cats are intrigued by it. No, they don’t try to ride Roomba. They perch on the sofa, chair, or even the steps (because Roomba has sensors so it doesn’t fall down them) and stare at it. Occasionally one of them gets brave enough to “dare” Roomba to touch her. Roomba knows no better than to oblige. He bumps the cat and turns the other way at the exact same time the brave cat runs in the opposite direction. While Roomba is none the worse for wear after the “bump and run”, I can’t say the same for the cat who sought higher ground (a windowsill), and seemed a little confused by the recent event.

So imagine my surprise when a fully charged Roomba greeted me with its happy little tune (“da dee, da dee, da dee”) advising me it was ready to go, and then promptly spun in circles, in the same place. (GASP! “Roombie honey, what’s wrong with you?”) I began to wonder if there was an iRobot doctor (repair person) I could contact. Now this is the original version of Roomba who has needed nothing from me except a new battery pack. Sadly, per my e-mails to iRobot, Roomba cannot be repaired. However, I was offered 30% off an upgrade, no sales tax, but did have to pay shipping and handling.

I said YES! So, I have rewarded myself with a brand new Roomba Discovery! (This is neither the least expensive nor the most expensive model and suits my needs perfectly!) Also, the upgraded battery pack ($50.00) in old Roomba will fit new Roomba Discovery.

I’m excited. I miss Roomba. The cats miss Roomba. I hate vacuuming so often and my sweeper is heavy. Plus I have to lug it up and down a couple flights of steps and that’s just not fun. The cats fear the “Big Sweeper” and once I turn it on, they run for cover – actually, they run for their little lives!

If you’ve never owned one, you would be pleasantly surprised at how ‘smart’ Roomba is and how powerful it is. Granted, I’m a bit of a geek, and when my friends got one, I was over the moon, as were they. In fact, they bought me my original Roomba as a gift. I went home that night, charged the battery, and fired Roomba up the next day. Now you can just let Roomba go work its magic - there’s no reason for you to stick around. Should Roomba get into trouble, he’ll signal you with an “uh oh” type of sound. (Like when he tried to suck up one the cat's toy mice. Oops. My bad.) To be honest, the first few times I used Roomba, like the cats, I just watched in amazement.

I found myself bringing it out when friends were over. It was quite the conversation piece and once again, I was the trailblazer of a new cool toy. Well, I could honestly do an infomercial on Roomba. I love it that much. I’m pretty jazzed about my new one, which comes with a bonus accessory kit (which is backorder for 3 weeks). My old kit contained a couple of filters and a device with an invisible beam so you could keep Roomba out of certain rooms if you so desired.

Anyway, if you haven’t already done so, the site really is worth checking out: iRobot

NCAA Demo is Out

I downloaded it tonight while I was at my daughter's softball game...

It's a game between USC and Michigan (yuck to both of those teams) with 2 minute quarters on Varsity level, I believe.

I'm looking forward to honing my skills on the new gameplay prior to picking it up, so I can jump right in come July 17th. I've been reading good things at DSP. I'll post some impressions over the weekend, after I get a few games in. I'm wondering... can USC and Michigan both lose? That might be a sign of a serious AI problem, but I probably wouldn't mind too much...

Like a kid at Christmas time...

NCAA Football is just over a week away! At (almost) 36, I can't believe I still get excited for this stuff...

To make the time between now and then go even slower, EA has released a half-dozen or so videos, trailers, and tutorials from the game on the Xbox Live Marketplace. Of course, I had to check those out...

Here are the highlights:

• The trophy room has been greatly enhanced, and it includes things like user-saved great play videos and stills. It appears some can even be uploaded. This is cool; there's nothing like reliving those "oh my" moments of greatness on the screen. I still recall the time I (er, virtual Mark Price) hit three 3-pointers in the last minute to win a game in NBA Live (circa 1997, I think). I even re-lived it out on my basketball court. Yes, I need help...
• Campus Legend mode allows you to either take over an existing player, or to create a new one. Instead of doing drills to earn a scholarship, you now play in your state's high school playoff games, among the final 16 teams. You also get to advise your coach of your favorite school, so he can make sure they're in attendance. Your performance in the tournament earns you a rating (up to 5 stars), and subsequent offers based upon your performance. It looks to add even more to the fun, although I don't think they brought the girlfriend pictures back. As I said, I need help!
• Recruiting has been totally revamped. There are now up to fourteen different recruiting pitches, and you can uncover how the player feels about each one, before hammering home your final pitch during an in-home visit to get a commitment. You can rank the recruits in order of importance (which affects how they feel about your school), and also make promises in regard to playing time and so forth. You have an integrity rating that changes based upon keeping your promises, which can negatively affect some recruits if your rating is low. It appears that you are limited to so many "hours" a week to recruit. Also, a much needed change is the ability to search the player database. Now you can focus on exactly the players you want, from where you want, without looking through everyone in the DB. Cool.
• There are a few more plays added, like the ones Boise State pulled off against Oklahoma last season (the Statue of Liberty and the Hook and Lateral). The hit stick has been improved to allow you to dive at players' ankles, and gang tackling has finally been implemented. There's also a new momentum feature, where you can take control of someone, make a play, and improve his moral and the moral of players within his "influence." It looks a little iffy, but at least they're trying to capture the ups and downs of the college game, I guess.

Overall, I'm excited about the changes, and I think this could be the best NCAA ever, assuming there's no major glitches, like QB accuracy, or the ability to rush of the end, and so forth from previous editions. Obviously, I can't wait!