Greg Lloyd's Stepdaughter Will Murder You

Hat tip to HG at You Been Blinded for this one.

Remember finding out what Greg Lloyd had been up to recently?

Tae Kwon Do. Trying to patch up his family problems. NOT putting a gun into his son's mouth.

Turns out, Greg Lloyd's stepdaughter has been having a grand old time herself. She's getting ready to kick your ass.

Her name is Asia Smith Lloyd, and she's an 11-year-old black belt.

I'd never try punching/kicking wooden boards in half. Probably because I'm not trying to get a splinter, which could become infected and lead to some heavy shit.

I really don't wanna take that chance. Asia did, and I applaud her for it.

Avoid (Asia Smith) Lloyd.

Sidney Crosby Is Featured In An Exhibit

Sidney Crosby has his own exhibit.

Kudos to the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame for prominently featuring Sid in his own exhibit.

This is information overload for yours truly. Being a history buff (that's what I have my degree in), having worked in several museums and being a die hard Pittsburgh sports fan, this is entirely overwhelming. It looks like I might have to make a pit stop in Canada one of these days (road trip)!

The NSSHoF now holds (for a limited time) the trifecta of trophies won by Sid last season. The trophies won and displayed include:

...the Art Ross Trophy as the NHL’s top scorer, the Hart Trophy for the league most valuable player and the Lester B. Pearson Award for MVP as selected by the players.

Also on display will be the Lou Marsh Award — Canada’s male athlete of the year, which Crosby won in 2007 — and the Canada Cup, won by Team Canada in 1976.

If trophies aren't your deal, then at least check out the clothes dryer (pictured above) that Sid used to practice his shot as a tyke.

Now if only I could get someone to make an exhibit strictly about me. Can't be hard, right? I know I have a 3rd place trophy from a backgammon tournament somewhere, as well as a medal for successfully completing Mary Lou Retton's The President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports from like 1st Grade at St. Edward Elementary School. Those have gotta count for something.

I demand an exhibit.

Classic Mini Pony of the Day 4-30-08

(originally published on 4-30-07)


Cool. This pig (which rules, by the way) loves mini ponies. If it had the mental capabilities to distinguish between the Internet and a corncob, I bet he would check out this site. Either way, I'm giving it an invisible high five right now.


(Editor's note: Internet > Corncob. However, Corncob with corn on it > Internet. There. I said it.)

Jeff Reed Is Almost Naked...Again

This awful group of pictures is brought to you by the fine lads at Kissing Suzy Kolber (via Deadspin). Hat tip to you, Ape.

Last time we got an eyeful of a current Steeler, we really got too much of an eyeful of John Santonio Holmes.

Thankfully, Jeff's got his pants on, but the tiara and sash are a nice combo.

I think our team might have a drinking/clothing problem.

Hal Gill Rules

(hat tip to TSW on this post for the image)

Hal Gill had a quite fulfilling Game 2.

Honestly, I can't remember another player being filled with such agony and ecstasy is a playoff game without recording a point.

With such a dynamic offense, the defense was the one aspect of the Penguins that I wanted to see locked down in the playoffs. Not that its been terrible throughout the season, just that no matter how well your offense plays in the playoffs, you need a defense that's willing to match up with another dynamic offense and alter their gameplan.

Gill anchored a solid defensive showing in Game 2, but his efforts were nearly negated with the cross-check to Sean Avery in the final minutes, setting up a torrid finish that no one saw coming.

Gill said it was the worst feeling to be in that penalty box, watching as the Rangers pulled Ludqvist for a 2-man advantage with the game nearing its end and Pittsburgh nursing a 1-goal lead.

But redemption came as the penalty was killed. From the lowest of lows, Gill flies out of the box, only to accompany a clearing pass off the glass all the way into the empty net. I jumped out of my chair in front of the T.V. with what can only be a fraction of the joy Gill must have felt.

And how does one celebrate such a dramatic exit from the sin bin? By flinging your gloves off faster than humanly possible and laying a beat down on Avery as he cowers away.



Gill had his words with Avery during the game as well. Piere McGuire said he heard Gill tell Avery (ed: that story by Joe Starkey is awesome):

You just weren't hugged enough as a child. That's why you've got issues.

Who wouldn't relish the opportunity to say that to Avery's face? I wouldn't because I'm a wuss, but you gotta believe you'd say that to his face if given the opportunity.

This sets up a beautiful backdrop for Game 3 tonight. Gill, Laraque and the boys stayed focused in Game 1 and physical in Game 2. Now, Gill and Laraque have a full 60 minutes and a 2-0 lead to "work with."

Here's hoping they put their time to good use.

/wink, nudge.

Classic Mini Pony of the Day 4-29-08

(originally published on 4-29-07)


(Editor's note: I'm not re-printing today's MPotD text. You can follow the link if you want to see it. The day is young, and its already shitty as hell. Its still gloomy out, and I dropped my cell phone onto the subway tracks. This doesn't bode well for the rest of the day. Apologies if I'm an ass today.)

Passion Move To 2-0

What with the NFL draft and intense-ass Pens-Rangers hockey this past weekend, I forgot to mention that the Pittsburgh Passion won their second game of the season...

...With only two games played.

Yes, your Pittsburgh Passion is still undefeated since moving from the NWFA to the NFL.

With a 34-8 win over the Boston Militia, Pittsburgh has shown that it can hang in the competitive IWFL, moving to 2-0.

Official stats, photos, stories are hard to come by in women's football, but I do my best to keep you informed.

The team gained 322 yards on 125 plays for an average of 2.6 yards per.

Pittsburgh will have to improve its focus, having taken 5 penalties against Boston. That won't fly next week, as the 1-1 DC Divas come to Cupples Stadium.

MAF > Complaining About Diving

For those of you not up to speed on this current Eastern Conference semifinals series, with our Penguins up 2 games to none on the New York Rangers, I'm offering a few links to assist.

John Dellapina is a joke. Sean Avery is a joke. Tom Renney is a joke. 5hole is a joke. The NY Post is a joke. Blueshirt Bulletin is a joke.

The London Free Press out of Ontario rules.

With all the stupid shit coming out of Rangers fans and the New York media, The London Free Press gives an unbiased view on why the Penguins remain the team to beat in this series.

MAF.

The Flower is upstaging regular Vezina-finalist Henrik Lundqvist, showing determination in Game 1 and domination in Game 2.

While the NY media is readjusting their panties over nonsense accusations and non calls, The London Free Press is actually looking at the real difference in this series. If not for MAF's re-emergence in the latter stages of Game 1 and his sick play in Game 2, Pittsburgh is heading to MSG tied at 1s, or even down 0-2. And with our recent struggles at the Garden, the series would be over.

So I'll express my extreme disappointment in guys I've always admired like Shanahan and Jagr, who are buying into the "Crosby is a diver" and "the refs are giving preferential treatment to the Pens" junk. Both guys were huge proponents of the league-wide changes against clutching and grabbing, giving offensive players more wiggle room. You can't impede an offensive player without the puck. Straka did that to Crosby in Game 1. You can't put a glove on a guy's chest and shove that player to the ice, as Dellapina suggests is legal, which happened in Game 2.

You can't board Rob Scuderi when he doesn't have the puck, as Avery did early in the game...with no whistle. The Rangers might have an argument if blatant penalties against them weren't called.

Also, you can't win by bitching. I've never seen a bitch score a goal. However, Sean Avery did score in Game 1.

And finally, you can't beat MAF. Even with more Power Plays (yeah, the refs are squarely in the Penguins' pockets), the Rangers couldn't get one past the Flower. The dude is 6-0 this postseason for a reason.

NY Media, Rangers fans and bloggers, coaches and players...shut up and play. The only thing worse than diving is complaining about diving when its not even happening. You come off looking like babies. Or girls. Or baby girls.

How about try to solve MAF instead. It obviously hasn't worked to this point.

Classic Mini Pony of the Day 4-28-08

(originally published on 4-28-07)


In honor of the first successful NFL Draft first day between the coalition of Kevin Colbert and Mike Tomlin, I give you a picture of two mini ponies kissing. Yeah, Colbert and Tomlin weren't kissing, but they were able to work together and make 2 (out of 3) pretty good picks. Hopefully day 2 goes half as well.


(Editor's note: Days 1 and 2 of this year's draft went just as well. Hard to believe that this was already Mike Tomlin's second NFL draft as a head coach.)

Steelers 2008 Draft Class Recap

First Round
- Rashard Mendenhall, RB Illinois

Second Round
- Limas Sweed, WR Texas

Third Round
- Bruce Davis, DE/OLB UCLA

Fourth Round
- Tony Hills, OT Texas

Fifth Round
- Dennis Dixon, QB Oregon

Sixth Round
- Mike Humpal, LB Iowa
- Ryan Mundy, S West Virginia

Steelers Select Ryan Mundy

In what should be their final pick in this year's draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers selected S Ryan Mundy out of West Virginia.

The first words I saw when Googling Mundy was "injury prone."

Still, Guaranthony Smith might start hearing footsteps with this pick.

Mundy is originally from Wilkins Township, PA.

Barring some trade that gives us a 7th Round pick, the Steelers can close up shop early and start thinking about the upcoming season.

Steelers Select Mike Humpal

With their 1st of 2 6th Round picks (unless they trade), the Steelers selected Mike Humpal, LB out of Iowa.

At 6-3, 242, Humpal could be the heir to Farrior and Foote on the inside (instead of Bruce Davis, as I thought of earlier).

Humpal's already got the whole Black and Gold thing going on from his days as a Hawkeye, so its easy to see him fitting in with the Steelers (on a purely shallow, appearance-laden basis).

It must be noted that I am nothing but positive about any and all Steelers draft picks, and only wish for all of them to succeed. Are we likely to get a future starter in the 6th Round? Its a long shot, but there's no negatives in drafting LB depth at this point in the draft.

Steelers Select Dennis Dixon

Consider my mind blown.

In the 5th Round, Pittsburgh selected QB Dennis Dixon from Oregon.

Dixon was a one-time Heisman favorite this season before ending his collegiate career with a knee injury.

The depth chart is all nutty, what with Ben getting paid, Charlie Batch on the roster, Jared Zabransky joining the team and now Dixon being drafted.

I did not see this happening.

This draft class is crazy.

Steelers Select Tony Hills

In the 4th Round, the Steelers swapped picks with the New York Giants, moving down from #123 to #130 to select OT Tony Hills from Texas.

Former Longhorn Limas Sweed should feel at home, now.

Big boy if 6-5, 309 pounds and was moved from TE (yes, tight end), to OT when he got to Texas.

Only took 4 rounds to get that O-Line help.

Steelers Select Bruce Davis

In the 3rd Round, Pittsburgh selected Bruce Davis, DE/OLB from UCLA.

To be honest, I don't know much about Davis.

From what I've heard, he was a DE/linebacker at UCLA, but could play linebacker in the bigs if he gains some weight. The "experts" are saying outside linebacker, but who is the logical heir to Farrior and Foote in the inside?

Last season, Davis:

...started all 13 games and finished the season with 47 tackles (17.5 for losses), 12.5 sacks, three forced fumbles and three pass breakups.

I'm for it.

His "callout" of ESPN in the above video could have been phrased better.

Steelers Select Limas Sweed

In the 2nd Round, Pittsburgh drafted a decent sized receiver in Texas' Limas Sweed.

ESPN lists him at 6 foot 5, 219 pounds while the draft tracker has him at only6 foot 3 (and 7/8) and 215 pounds.

Either way...Big Ben, you got your wish.

Steelers Select Rashard Mendenhall

The Steelers used their 1st Round pick, 23rd overall, on Illinois RB Rashard Munhall Mendenhall.

With Devin Thomas still on the board and Big Ben pleading for a tall WR, I thought the Steelers were giving serious thought to the Michigan State wideout. Rather, the team is showing its continued reliance on the ground game.

Munhall Mendenhall should compliment Fast Bill nicely. As a 'tween-the-tackles runner, Mendenhall helped Zooooook! and the Illini get to the Rose Bowl last season. His carries were down in college, so the Steelers get a low-mileage bruiser who could help immediately.

I watched Mendenhall several times this past season, and I can only say good things about his play. Yes, we didn't go O-line, but one can hardly go wrong with this choice.

Congrats To Sean Avery

(picture blatantly stolen from here)

PSaMP would like to congratulate Sean Avery on shis recent accomplishment.

With a 2nd period tally, Avery became the first girl to score a goal in a traditionally male-dominated, NHL Eastern Conference semifinals game! She might be a little misunderstood, but since she broke a barrier, I had to give props.

Warm congratulations from PSaMP.

P.S. Nice goal celebration.

We're celebrating the win.

Eat It

The game winner.

If that game didn't take years off your life then you are a cyborg.

Pens - Rangers Storylines

Watch every one of these videos.

Don't worry. I'll wait. They're short.

...

...

Done? Cool.

For as little attention as the NHL playoffs seem to get, the promotional videos for the playoffs on Versus are top notch.

Now, I'd like to share some storylines for tonight's series-opening game, coming straight from a National Hockey League press release that I was recently emailed (their words, not mine):

- YOU Again!: Penguins GM Ray Shero just might have been thinking about this match-up on Feb. 26 when he obtained 6-foot-7, 250-pound Hal Gill from the Toronto Maple Leafs for a second-round pick in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft and a fifth-round selection in 2009. Gill, a left defenseman, has waged some memorable battles against Rangers RW Jaromir Jagr.

- YOU Again 2!: Pittsburgh's LW Marian Hossa and RW Pascal Dupuis, acquired at the trade deadline from the Atlanta Thrashers, were swept out of the first round of the playoffs by the Rangers in 2007.

- No Looking Back: The Penguins trailed only 4:28 in their first-round elimination of the Ottawa Senators; the Rangers trailed only 15:10 in their first-round series against New Jersey.

- Friendly Foe: Penguins D Kris Letang and Rangers D Marc Staal were members of the 2006 and 2007 Team Canada entries that won consecutive gold medals at the World Junior Championships. In 2006, Pittsburgh C Evgeni Malkin had 4-6--10 for the Russian team at the World Junior Championships, but was held off the scoresheet in the gold medal game -- in part by Letang and Staal.

- You Look Familiar: Penguins RW Pascal Dupuis played six games for the Rangers last season; RW Adam Hall appeared in 49 games for the Rangers last season, as well, and RW Petr Sykora played 40 games as a Ranger in 2005-06. Rangers RW Jaromir Jagr played his first 11 NHL seasons for the Penguins; C Martin Straka had two stints as a Penguin (1992-93 to 1994-95 and 1997-98 to 2003-04); D Michal Rozsival played his first four seasons as a Penguin. Rangers President/GM Glen Sather once played for the Penguins.

- Can You Top This?: This series will match two of the true ‘Super Pests,’ LW Jarkko Ruutu of the Penguins and LW Sean Avery of the Rangers.

Excited? Its the 2nd round of the playoffs! This is what we were denied last season. Even if you're a casual hockey fan, its gotta be damn near impossible to be indifferent of the playoffs once teams keep advancing.

If you'd like the full press release, email me.

Classic Mini Pony of the Day 4-25-08

(originally published on 4-25-07)


Totally great picture! This reminds me of the Kibbles N Bits Lean commercial from like 10 years ago, when a gang of rough-looking dogs chanted, "Kibbles N Bits Lean. Kibbles N Bits Lean." As they walked down a shady alley, the camera showed the backs of the dogs, and they were all leaning. I know these aren't dogs, but they reminded me of that commercial. That was a great ad. They should bring it back.


(Editor's note: Couldn't find it, but here's a really old/kickass Kibbles N Bits commercial.)

Which Local "Celebrity" Will Support The Pens?

Poll time.

We all know celebrities come out full force to watch sporting events, should their local teams consistently succeed (Jack Nicholson) or fail miserably (Spike Lee).

Celebrity hockey fans are different, primarily because the NHL doesn't pull massive audiences, thus making "appearances" seem unimportant.

However, Snoop Dogg showed love for the eventual Cup-winning Anaheim Ducks last season (pictured above), and other celebrities (pictured below, in order, have been known as die-hards...or at least made special showings. In addition to Snoop and his Ducks, Sandra Bullock and Jesse James (Kings) as well as Hulk Hogan (Lightning) have been linked to the NHL as fans.

This got me thinking. If the Penguins continue to carve through the playoffs, which "celebrity" with local ties will or should make an appearance at Mellon Civic Arena? Here are your choices. Let me know if you have a name for the "Other" category.

Michael Keaton. He's hard on (didn't mean to put those two words together) the Buccos front office, so will Mr. Mom Beetlejuice Batman switch from baseball to hockey?

Donnie Iris. Come on. Its Donnie. I'd be pissed if he DIDN'T show up.

Jeff Goldblum. My mom used to work at a hospital with his dad. Will he come out of whatever hole he's currently hiding in and support the Pens?

George Romero. Yeah, he wasn't born in the city, but consistently using Pittsburgh as the setting for his movies is good enough. Prior to the Crosby regime, Penguins hockey could best be described as a zombie flick. Enough to bring Mr. Romero to the games?

Mr. Rogers' Ghost. He should totally haunt that place.

Dennis Miller. Appearing could only help. Seriously.

Other. Sharon Stone, Wiz Khalifa, Christina Aguilera, Kurt Angle, Arnie Palmer? Totally up to you.

Opinion Polls & Market Research

Classic Mini Pony of the Day 4-24-08

(originally published on 4-24-07)


Look at the MPotD's cool mane. That thing is sick! Honestly. From one view, it looks like an intentionally-corny 80's mullet wig. Yet from another angle, it sorta looks like the hair on some dude on the cover of a terrible Giant Eagle magazine center romance novel. Amazing what you can see when you look at the MPotD. Its kinda like those trippy 3D digital optical illusion posters that those dudes try to hustle you into buying at the mall, but you just find yourself looking at it for an hour like, "I don't see the Pope above Point State Park at all!" Yeah, like those, only without the frustration.


(Editor's note: MPotD > 3D illusion posters. That's all I'm sayin'.)

I Am Cool With BethRawks

Yes, you heard that correct. BethRawks is cool in my book. And as I've said before, my book is so badass that you would totally buy it if I had it published.

I had been waiting patiently to see who would be the Penguins opponent in the 2nd round. I mean, we haven't played in about a minute, so any opponent is a good opponent at this point.

Had Boston won, Pittsburgh could have played the 8 seed and been assured of home-ice for the remainder of the Eastern end of the bracket.

Had Washington won, Sid and Co. would play A.O. and Co., a team that we've had little to no problem dominating.

Turns out, neither of those scenarios went down, and we play the team in my current hometown, the New York Rangers.

I spend most some of my day commenting on sites like Deadspin and The Big Lead, and actually said that I wanted the Penguins to play the Rangers for one reason...

...For somebody (hopefully with a name that sounds like Feorges Faraque) to murder Sean Avery.

So it was with great pleasure that I found these pictures (click for bigger view) from BethRawks on Webshots. There are no pro-Penguins pictures drawn up, but BethRawks does diss every possible Penguins Eastern Conference opponent in pictorial form. These are old (I think from last season), but its always good to see someone hating on the Habs and Phlyers, as well as the Islanders and Senators.

These two are my favorites, simply because Sean Avery looks like a fool in both.

BethRawks...well done. You are cool with PSaMP.

Classic Mini Pony of the Day 4-23-08

(originally published on 4-23-07)


Awesome. Pick whichever one of these mini ponies you want to be your own, personal MPotD. They both kick ass, and probably hang out on a regular basis. The baby knows that the older pony is the man, and is learning how to be cool from an awesome source.

I dare anyone to look at this picture and not say something along the lines of, "Sweet!" Or, "Awesome!" Or even, "This rules!" Go ahead. Let it out.


(Editor's note: Sweet. Awesome. This rules. The baby looks surprised as hell.)

The Steelers Are Obama's Team

Man, Obama is pulling out all the stops in order to win over the Western part of PA.

According to this video, Barack is a huge Steelers fan, and he adopted the Black and Gold as his team when he was growing up in Hawaii.

I do like that Barack is pushing for acceptance in the Steelers half of the state. After all the bullshit we put up with concerning Ed Rendell and his man-crush on Philly, its good to see a politician stick up for the Steelers and Pittsburgh.

Honestly, Ed Rendell, shut up with Philly. You almost cost Pittsburghers the Penguins, then wanted to build a soccer stadium in Philly. SOC-CER! Jerk.

That last bit doesn't really concern the whole Obama/Steelers connection. I just needed a place to vent about Rendell.

I'm trying not to weave politics into my posts, but its getting hard with all the Steelers love in the Obama camp. Hell, I'm not even trying to weave male pornography into the site, but we all know how that went.

Props to Barack.

All this Obama/Clinton/PA bullshit will be behind us shortly. Breathe easy, folks.


-
More Obama/Steelers content on PSaMP here:
- Political Dissent Among Steel Curtain Steelers?
- Dan Rooney Endorses Obama
- Barack gets More Steelers Backers

Classic Mini Pony of the Day 4-22-08

(originally published on 4-22-07)


Yes! Two mini ponies standing right next to each other! Plus a cool miniature fence! While I wouldn't want mini ponies to ever be fenced up, miniature fences are cool. Plus, you can totally look at this picture in a different way, and imagine that the woman, whose shirt you can see down, is fenced up, and the mini ponies are like, "Check out how free we are!" That way of looking at this picture is so much cooler! So cool that it makes these mini ponies the Mini Pon(ies) of the Day.


(Editor's note: ...Hey, baby. This CMPotD, complete with a female in it, comes perfectly after that Santonio Holmes nonsense.)

Santonio Holmes Is Naked

Thanks, AJ.

I'm putting this picture at the bottom of the post, hopefully obscured by many, many linebreaks so that your boss doesn't see this as soon as the page loads.

NSFW is an understatement. Original, naked picture here. I haven't even clicked on that link, so I won't hate you if you don't either.


UNSEXY UPDATE: Bandwidth was exceeded on that original link. You can check out Santonio's dong here. Gross.


-




I mean it.








Not joking.








Its kinda gross.

Kids: Penguins > Pirates

Kids hate the Pirates. And love the Penguins.

I can't blame them. I'd pick Sid/Geno/MAF/Staal over Bay/ADD/Paulino/McLouth any day. The tots are just learning early on that winning makes you that much cooler.

Growing up, I was able to experience winning in both sports. Sure, the Buccos didn't bring home the championship, but I was pumped to watch guys like Bonds/Bonilla/Van Slyke/Pena just as much as I loved watching Lemieux/Jagr/Francis/Stevens/Loney etc. And even though those Pirates weren't bringing home the championship hardware like the Pens, I was still taught to love Clemente/Stargell/Maz and the rest.

I'm done with the forward slash for a bit.

Do you want local sports wisdom from the mouths of babes (kids AND moms)? Read that article. Here's a conversation between a kid named Gunnar (?) and his mom after the kid came home from kindergarten. Don't know why anyone would call their kid Gunnar, though:

Gunnar: "Mom, Josh said something mean today."

Mom: "What did he say?"

Gunnar: "He said the Pirates stink."

Mom: "Well, honey, they do."

Gunnar: "They do?

Mom: "Yep."

Gunnar: "Oh."

And Gunnar now knows the plight of the Pittsburgh sports fan. Everything (Gunnar) needs to know (he) learned in kindergarten.

However, despite my love of all teams Black and Gold, I have to make like the kiddies for the current Pirates/Penguins outlook.

Go Pens!

Yes!

Think your life sucks because its Monday? Be glad you aren't former Steelers draft pick Tim Worley.

Here's a quick video for you to demonstrate why You > Tim Worley.

Props to both Deadspin and One for the Other Thumb for sharing the goods.

Classic Mini Pony of the Day 4-21-08

Insert obligatory Doublemint Gum reference here.

Today, I'm giving you the MPotD for both 4/20 and 4/21 of last year. Because I can.



(originally published on 4-20-07)


The mini pony of today is such a hard worker. And the lady with the mid-90s Etonic windbreaker or whatever is lazy as hell. But back to the mini pony...it should totally jump up and knock out the "rider." Then it would be free to go do other cooler stuff.


(Editor's note: Uncool cart. Buck your rider in the face. Um...that didn't sound the way I wanted it to.)



(originally published on 4-21-07)


Today's MPotD looks huge! But remember, that's a baby sitting next to it. Normal humans would tower over this cool animal. And the baby should probably not be trying to eat this pony's tail. Although they look cool and act cool, mini ponies probably do not taste cool. I'm guessing they taste like a normal sized pony. I haven't ever tasted pony before, though, so maybe this baby is on to something.


(Editor's note: Maybe ponies DO taste good! I've been blind to that option.)

Passion Open Season With Win

Who loses, nowadays?

Your Pittsburgh Passion, fresh off an undefeated championship season in the NWFA, have decided to continue their winning ways in the highly competitive IWFL.

Pittsburgh opened its season against the Central PA Vipers, a former NWFA rival, and won in convincing fashion. The final score was 62-0.

Looks like that scrimmage, pictured above, paid off.

The Passion are 1-0, tying them for the top record in Tier 1 of the North Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.

PSaMP is proud to be your official unofficial Passion blog. Complete coverage of the 2007 championship season, including an interview with former star running back Torina Henley, can be found here. PSaMP is your home for everything Passion in '08 as well.

I'll update with stats from the game as soon as they're available.

Barack Gets More Steelers Backers

I apologize for the political posts polluting PSaMP recently. I enjoy politics, but try to keep my beliefs regarding the subject separate from the sports-writings on this here blog. I'd go and start a politics blog, but my time is already stretched thin, what with work and blogging and having a social life and playing "Rock Band" (that game rules) and all.

However, when politics and sports intersect (especially local sports), I have to bring you the goods.

Recently, I've told you of Barack Obama receiving endorsements from some big names in the Steelers family. Jerome Bettis and Franco Harris recently hung out with Oprah's boy toy. Dan Rooney backed Barack, but not on behalf of the entire team.

Now, Harris is joining forces (as we speak, I might add) with former players Dwight "Mad Dog" White, J.T. Thomas, Robin Cole, Larry Brown and Edmund Nelson on a "Steelers Vote For Change 5 County Blitz Tour" with Mr. Obama. Shit is going on right now. I have no idea where they are currently, because I'm a blogger, and I live in my mother's basement eating Bagel Bites while playing video games in my underwear and spouting lies about the MSM.

Kidding, but if I'm going to use a typical blogger-cliche, I might as well go all out and follow through with an epic explanation of our daily lives.

The TAE article says that the shindig:

...started at 9 a.m. at Aliquippa High School, and will continue with stops at the Carnegie Elementary School football field, the American Legion in Charleroi, the Obama Uniontown campaign office and the courthouse square in Greensburg.

They'll wind up the tour at Heinz Field with a 7 p.m. rally.

Your guess is as good as mine as to where they are at this very moment. Somewhere in the vicinity, would be my guess.

Go out and support Obama, if that's your thing. Many Steelers obviously want you to.

Dan Onorato is looking more and more foolish with each and every Obama supporter that comes out of the Black and Gold.

Pensblog Photoshop Expo

If you have a decent amount of free time on your hands, be sure to head over to The Pensblog to check out their massive Photoshop Expo.

My above MS Paint Photoshop from this post made the cut, as did several thousand golfing/sweep entries.

There are some fantastic pictures. Great way to start your Friday.

Classic Mini Pony of the Day 4-18-08

(originally published on 4-18-07)


The dog in this picture looks like it's about to take a poo on the sidewalk. Don't worry, awesome dog! Its only the MPotD! It won't hurt you. It's too busy being the coolest thing ever! That dog is probably thinking, "Man, that's close enough." The mini pony would be like, "Dude, let's just hang out for a minute. Calm down."


(Editor's note: Scaredy...dog? Horse just wants to be friends.)

Um...What?

Man, I don't even know what to make of this.

It mighta made more sense if Barry Bonds was still on the Giants. OR if they used any other current baseball player who has been linked to 'roids (LoDuca, Pettitte, Giambi, Guillen...I could go on if you'd like).

However, I can't pass up the opportunity to post random Youtube vids that remotely mention any Pittsburgh sports team.

So enjoy. If you can.

Classic Mini Pony of the Day 4-17-08

(originally published on 4-17-07)


Fluffy mini pony babies are awesome. So awesome, that they make frequent appearances as the MPotD. This one's head looks so out of proportion, but its still sweet.


(Editor's note: I know I say this about almost every MPotD, but this might be my favorite. Add it to the list of my other favorites...aka all of them.)

Clean Sweep

Go golfing, Sens.

So happy.

Go Pens!

Big Ben Likes Old Spice

Ahoy.

Big Ben is partnering with Old Spice to bring the first Old Spice Ben Roethlisberger Football Camp. They took awhile to collectively come up with that name.

It'll go down in late June at Mars Area High School.

Ben will be teaching football fundamentals to kids aged 7-14, with all proceeds going to the Roethlisberger Foundation. With no research, I'm going to guess that the Roethlisberger Foundation helps motorcycle accident victims.

Shit. My cliche guess was wrong. The Foundation:

...seeks to (a) provide support for police and fire departments throughout the US with a particular emphasis on service dogs and (b) to enhance the quality of life for residents of Findlay, OH and Pittsburgh, PA.

Get more info here, via Ben's site.

Classic Mini Pony of the Day 4-16-08

(originally published on 4-16-07)


This MPotD loves to play so much. Dude keeps running around his pen, or as the Youtube post puts it, the mini pony is at liberty (whatever that means).

I know there was a shortage of posts today, but I'm kinda saving up for tomorrow. It may not mean much to you, the reader, but PSaMP is hitting a personal milestone. The first post of the day tomorrow will officially be PSaMP's 100th post! Look for some more great domination, as PSaMP crosses the century threshold, and gets ready for the next 100. Hold on to your hats (or if you're not wearing a hat, hold some piece of clothing that can easily be blown off in a light breeze), because PSaMP is ready for the next 100!


(Editor's note: One year later, and I'm closer to 1,000 posts. Crap.)

2008-09 Steelers Schedule

(courtesy of nfl.com)

(away games italicized/highlighted)


Wk 1
Sept. 7
Houston Texans
1 p.m.

Wk 2
Sept. 14
at Cleveland Browns
8:15 p.m.

Wk 3
Sept. 21
at Philadelphia Eagles
4:15 p.m.

Wk 4
Sept. 29 (Mon.)
Baltimore Ravens
8:30 p.m.

Wk 5
Oct. 5
at Jacksonville Jaguars
8:15 p.m.

Wk 6
Oct. 12
Bye

Wk 7
Oct. 19
at Cincinnati Bengals
1 p.m.

Wk 8
Oct. 26
New York Giants
4:15 p.m.

Wk 9
Nov. 3 (Mon.)
at Washington Redskins
8:30 p.m.

Wk 10
Nov. 9
Indianapolis Colts
4:15 p.m.

Wk 11
Nov. 16
San Diego Chargers
4:15 p.m.

Wk 12
Nov. 20 (Thurs.)
Cincinnati Bengals
8:15 p.m.

Wk 13
Nov. 30
at New England Patriots
4:15 p.m.

Wk 14
Dec. 7
Dallas Cowboys
4:15 p.m.

Wk 15
Dec. 14
at Baltimore Ravens
1 p.m.

Wk 16
Dec. 21
at Tennessee Titans
1 p.m.

Wk 17
Dec. 28
Cleveland Browns
1 p.m.

Dan Rooney Endorses Obama

As noted on PSaMP before, the Steelers are Democrats. Well, except for Lynn Swann.

The latest Obama-endorser is owner Dan Rooney. He joins Franco Harris and Jerome Bettis as Obama supporters.

"As a grandfather and a citizen of this community, I think Barack Obama's thoughtful, strategic approach is important to America," Rooney said. "When I hear how excited young people seem to be when they talk about this man, I believe he will do what is best for them, which is to inspire them to be great Americans."

Solid quote.

This is a bit of a surprise, seeing as how Rooney doesn't usually endorse candidates.

Apparently, the endorsement comes on the heels of stupid Dan Onorato foolishly giving Hillary Clinton a personalized Steelers jersey with Gary Anderson's old number. Thanks for setting the record straight, Roon!

Classic Mini Pony of the Day 4-15-08

(originally published on 4-15-07)


In honor (it's not really an honor, but you get the point) of the Pens losing, I give you something to brighten your day/night. It's the Mini Pony of the Day, and it might be the only thing that can make a man smile after seeing his team get outplayed in the Stanley Cup playoffs. This one is so cool, and could probably play better defense than #55 did tonight (Still bitter. Sorry).


(Editor's note: What awesome circumstances. One year ago, I was distressed that my team couldn't beat Ottawa in the first round. One year later, and we just went up 3-0 in the series. Everything IS better if you wait a year!)

Game 3

Talbot crushed Gerber.

Which resulted in several near-fights.

And this...um...makeout session?

This game is huge.

Go Pens.

Nate McLouth Rules

Aren't the Penguins playing tonight? Then why the Pirates post?

Despite my love for the Penguins (especially during playoff time), I gotta show love for what Nate McLouth is doing in this young season.

In last night's 9-1 win over the Reds, on what was hardly a clear black night, Nate Dogg regulated the game (sorry) with two runs, two walks and a hit, pushing his career-long hit streak to 12 games.

Also, his 22 hits on the season accounts for nearly 1/4 of the team hit total. He's also batting .400, good for tops on the team and 32 points above Chris Gomez, who sits in second on the squad with a .368 average. This doesn't take into account P Franquelis Osoria's .500 average in 2 plate appearances. Looks like Franquelis needs more ABs.

Honestly, I didn't expect this outta Nate. I'd like to find someone who did (whoops, turns out a lot of people did). Still, I was hoping Nyjer Morgan would have been the go-to-guy in CF after the show he put on after his call-up late last season. Now, this doesn't mean Morgan won't eventually replace Nate.

I mean, McLouth still has about 44 games to go to make some real noise.

Classic Mini Pony of the Day 4-14-08

(originally published on 4-14-07)


This lady is the luckiest. She is not only surrounded by mini ponies, but she is also surrounded by the Mini Ponies of the Day. This looks like so much fun...


(Editor's note: ...Hey, baby.)

Go Pens!

(yes, I did just pull that off a live-stream of tonight's anthem)

Game 2.

Go Pens!

UPDATE: Is Don Cherry subconsciously rooting for the Pens?

Civic Arena Ice Sucks

Home ice advantage?

Yes (according to me, no, according to Max Talbot).

Morning warm ups proved that ice conditions are less than desirable, and that's with no bodies in the stands. Mellon Civic Arena ice is usually regarded as one of the worst in the league, keeping the team on pace with the Steelers and their yearly turf struggles.

Talbot said, about the ice:

In the morning there was no crowd and there was no heat and it was pretty bad. Both teams have to play on it, and it's not an advantage for either team.

Now, its easy to believe Max, since he's doing the actual playing of the game, but I'm a blogger, my job is to disagree (and I'll do it rather politely, since its my team).

I'll only point to the stat of the Penguins having a home record of 26-10-5, which was tops in the East. It appears our Flightless Birds have found a way to adapt. The ice may be shitty, but the team that plays on it is used to the conditions.

Oh, and even if the ice isn't a wee bit of an advantage, I know of one other factor that could sway the outcome of the game:



Oh, yes.

Go Pens!

Classic Mini Pony of the Day 4-11-08

(originally published on 4-11-07)


Yeah, that's a premature baby mini pony lying next to a normal-sized cat. I found it first on this blog, but it came from this site first. If I was that cat, I'd be like, "this rules."


(Editor's note: Yes, your eyes are correct. That miniature horse is smaller than a cat. Everything you thought you knew was a lie.)

Hockey Night In Pittsburgh? I'd Say So

Best. Song. Ever?

You might have to check out the life-altering happenings at Soul Merchants. It appears our Penguins have a new fight song.

A few notes about last nights win:

I kinda remember someone saying:

"I don't mean to sound over-confident, just excited. The Sens will likely be without Captain Daniel Alfredsson, which coincides nicely with the return of Senator-killer Gary Roberts...Happy holidays, Penguins fans!"

and:

"Lots of people were concerned when Roberts broke his leg. He's old, and prior to his injury, he struggled at the onset of the season. However, before he got injured, I still wasn't worried about his offensive output. Looking back on what he contributed after Ray Shero traded for him last season...he's a guy who is much more valuable in the playoffs. Even if Roberts played all 82 games this season, I would have been okay with no goals and no assists. The man is a playoff force, and frankly, anything positive he gives the team in the postseason trumps any struggles he had prior to breaking his leg."

Who was that guy?

What a way to open the post-season!

Go Pens!

Classic Mini Pony of the Day 4-10-08

(originally published on 4-10-07)


This mini pony rules. It's like a dog, only cooler. It's another video, because videos are superior to pictures. In this video, you can see a mini pony be badass for almost 2 minutes, rather than just the brief moment that a picture gives you. I think I smiled real hard for the entire 2 minutes that this video played.


(Editor's note: Still smiling, one year later.)

PSaMP's Sens/Pens Playoff Prediction

This is going to be the simplest Sens/Pens Playoff Preview ever. Why? Because I'm a simple guy.

I could make checklists, or ask a buncha bloggers/NHL minds who is going to win.

Instead, I'm going to post my prediction, and why.

Penguins in 5. Explanation?

Game 5 is April 19th at the Igloo. Last April 19th, in Canada, in Game 5, this happened:



I called for revenge on Monday. A series win in Game 5 on April the 19th would be the most fitting. And that picture gets me fired up.

Oh, and if you have an iPhone and have playoff fever, check out Eddy Spaghetti's Penguins iPhone wallpapers. As well as the wallpaper Ed Spags made for PSaMP.

Mini Pony of the Day 4-9-08

Flanked!

These mini ponies are good at something, hence the ribbons/trophies.



...Hey, baby.