Blog Returns - Quick Hitters

I'm back, but don't get used to it. It's just that I've been quiet for too long and there's such a rich landscape of sporting events right now, I can't hold it all inside. Instead of take the usual time to look at in-depth issues, we're going to tackle them quickly and sloppily. You know, real professional-like ...

• TIGER WOODS: I'm not the kind of guy who encourages someone to play through serious injury, but you have to admire the gutsiness and greatness of what Tiger did. Sometimes, pride can be a good thing in sports. He won the Open because Tiger believes he's the best, and he won't accept less from himself. Even if he misses the rest of the season, it's worth it, because the U.S. Open win will be the signature victory of Tiger's career. I guarantee it.

• CELTICS ARE NBA CHAMPIONS: I was leaning softly on the side of the Celtics this series because I always felt it would be a crying shame if Garnett had to retire without a ring, not to mention the other aging superstars on that team. Boston clearly dominated throughout the series, and even in games they lost, you still felt like they were the better team. I don't feel bad for the Lakers because next year, Kobe will still be Kobe, and Bynum will come back, plus they can try to sign a savvy vet at small forward. They're the hands-down favorite for next year's title.

• THE STATE OF MARYLAND BASKETBALL: Someone isn't doing their job. I expect to see some kind of firing very soon. Maryland is the favorite in the ACC next year ... to finish in dead last place.

• THE STATE OF THE RAVENS: I'm pleased with the changes Harbaugh has made. Despite my previous support of Rex Ryan for head coach, I have reassessed how he has handled the team - with discipline. So far the players seem to be responding well. It certainly isn't Camp Cupcake. My ideal Ravens team in August has Troy Smith at QB and Maryland alum Jared Gaither anchoring the line at left tackle.

See, that wasn't too bad. Hope summer is going well for all of you!

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