The Eagles Draft

The 2014 NFL Draft is in the books and it was probably one of the deepest in recent years. Of course, we can only truly judge a draft class once they get on the field, at the earliest. However, everyone loves to throw in their two cents on how teams did. For today, let's discuss the Eagles' six picks, their statistical predictions and their pro comparisons.

Before that, let's get into some overall things that were noticed. In the rating of each pick, the player felt like a bit of a reach, in some way or another. We're just going to get that out of the way now. However, if you dig a little deeper, you'll realize there was another pattern with each pick, actually a few. Most of them were seniors, most were picked over a significantly similar prospect, all have leadership capabilities, very versatile, are team players, scheme fits and very high football IQ's.

1. Louisville

DE/OLB Marcus Smith

250 lbs 6'3'' 

Here's where that pattern began. After trading back four spots the Eagle's drafted him at 26 overall. You almost get the feeling like the Eagles were hoping someone would fall to them here. Its almost a shame, at 22 they were just out of reach from all of their top prospects. Yet, in a deep draft, where they only held six picks, it is easy to understand why they didn't trade up. Many wanted a WR here, however, there wasn't a lot of great pass rushers available. So, they went for the guy they felt was the best fit and filled a need. It still left some fans looking like this though. 

Who?

Grade: C+ 

Why: While the pick makes sense there were better prospects available, like Bradley Roby, who was picked next. 

Pro Comparisons: Shaun Phillips for body type, Dion Jordan for speed, versatility and how similar Chip could use him on his defense and special teams.
2014 Stats: 37 tackles, 13 for loss, 5 sacks, 1 FF, 1 INT, 1 2-pt conversion catch.

2. Vanderbilt

WR Jordan Matthews

215 lbs 6'3''

Anyone who knows me as an Eagles' fan, knows I love this pick. The Eagle's traded up from 54 all the way to 42 to pick up the lengthy wide receiver. Jordan, a cousin of Jerry Rice, was very happy being picked and you could see it as he marched to the stage. Obviously a respectable player, as he had nothing but great things to say when asked to compare himself to Desean Jackson. The intelligence of this man is very obvious. He graduated from Vanderbilt in 3.5 years. The skill is there too. He was the Vanderbilt offense, everyone knew it. Even though everyone knew, the defenses still couldn't stop him.

Grade: A-

Why: There were some arguably better WRs available on the board, ala Cody Latimer and Allen Robinson. However, the Eagles are obviously looking for mature, smart players.

Pro Comparisons: Terrance Williams, both tall players with great hands, catch radius and underrated speed. Both show great concentration near the sideline to get keep feet in bounds while making the catch.
2014 Stats: 37 receptions, 524 yards, 5 TDs  

3. Oregon

WR Josh Huff

206 lbs 5'11''

Another receiver so early? That was probably the first reaction from many Eagles fans. Especially with all the CBs available and the need. Plus, there is the idea that perhaps Chip only picked him up because of his Oregon ties. That isn't the case. In the end, the same CBs that they missed out on slid to their next pick and in fact, the Eagles were replacing both of the WRs they lost/released. Also, the guy has a great story behind how he came to be the man he is today and I cant blame Chip for wanting to reunite with one of his best receivers.

Grade: B-

Why: It was the biggest reach out of all the picks, IMO. So I still cant really just give it a perfect mark.

Pro Comparisons: Antonio Brown, not the tallest receivers in the world but are very strong for their size. Fast enough to blow by cornerbacks easily. KR/PR experience. Also, Santonio Holmes concentration is a big comparison as well. If you look at his highlights, there's a certain play that reminds me of the game winning catch Holmes made in the Super Bowl.

2014 Stats: 29 receptions, 344 yards, 2 TDs, 10 carries, 43 yards, 1 TD, 23.9 KR average yards, 1 TD

4. Florida

CB/S Jaylen Watkins

194 lbs 5'11'' 

Then the run on cornerbacks began. The Eagles started it. Out of the three CBs on the Gators, he was the one the Eagles chose. Once again, he had no off the field issues, no question of character and highly versatile. They had him visit before the draft and studied him extensively. So, the pick made a great deal of sense. He doesn't match the size that the Eagles want in CBs, so he must've made a big impression on them other wise if they took him over guys like Pierre Desir, Antone Exum, etc. Out of all the picks this was the last pick you can call a reach. On the contrary, you can say it is a steal. Jaylen Watkins should've gone in the second round, easily.

Grade: B+

Why: Need filled, great cornerback, they did their homework extensively on him. To get him in the fourth, is very fortunate. Eagles allowed the most pass yards on defense last year and Bradley Fletcher, along with Cary Williams, won't be on this team much longer. 

Pro Comparison: Not really sure actually. Kind of reminds me of two Eagles already, on the team, in Brandon Boykin and Malcolm Jenkins. Smart, speedy, great transition, can play anywhere, great in man coverage, good hips.
2014 Stats: 22 tackles, 1 INT

5. Oregon

DE Taylor Hart

281 lbs 6'6''

Thank God for Howie Roseman, Chip wanted to take this guy in the fourth. I think the last two picks show how great a team Chip and Howie make, though. They might have missed out on Jaylen Watkins, if it weren't for Howie's reasoning, but at the same time, Chip Kelly has a great idea of how he wants his players and he's following it. Taylor Hart is a perfect fit for the defense and probably makes a couple guys expendable.

Grade: C+

Why: So much talent at this point in the draft that could've helped at other positions and were way better players. Can't deny that teams who make it to the Super Bowl either have A great quarterbacks or B great defenses/defensive lines. 

Pro Comparison: Brett Kiesel, strong, great hands and can run. 

2014 Stats: 18 tackles, 2 sacks

6. Stanford

S Ed Reynolds

207 lbs 6'1''

Some say this is a steal. Some people say this guy is a ball-hawk hard-hitting safety and I'm sure you'll see the same. I see it too. However, I didnt see a guy great in overall coverage. He does fit the team's overall scheme and what they have been looking for through out the draft. Smart, high character, etc. 

Grade: C

Why: Could've gotten a lot better players just as good. It's late in the fifth round. No one is perfect, so I'm okay with it overall.

Pro Comparisons: A poor man's Ed Reed or Troy Polamalu...or maybe a rich man's Kurt Coleman. Ball hawk and capable of punishing anyone with the ball. Great in run support.
2014 Stats: 3 tackles, 1 FF

7. Wisconson

NT Beau Allen

333 lbs 6'3''

I dont know enough about the guy to be honest.

Grade: C 

Why: It is the 7th round, they needed a legit NT and they got him. From the film I did watch, it does seem he needs to be double teams and I hear he is great at stuffing the run.

Pro Comparison: Umm....
2014 Stats: 9 tackles, 2 for loss

It seems to be a good draft class overall. I really cant wait until the season starts to see them in action. 

Overall Grade: B

Favorite Pick: Jordan Matthews

2014 NFL Mock Draft

It is here again, ladies and gentlemen. The NFL Draft. This is probably one of the deepest I have seen in years. Every year around this time, plenty of rumors are coming out about how teams want this guy and hate this guy. This team is so interested in a guy, they're going to trade up. However, this is funny season. So, from an unbiased standpoint, I'm going to write my mock draft based on what makes sense for each team and also how they've drafted in the past. I wont predict any trades because I dont want give away my psychic abilities(you see I'm comfortable with throwing that out there because I know you wont believe me). So, here we go.

With the first pick....

1. Houston Texans

DE Jadeveon Clowney

When youre in my mock draft and you cant trade back, you just CAN NOT pass up a player like Clowney. The man is a freak of nature. They can get a good quarterback later. They cant get a pass rusher like Clowney, later. That is a FACT. I've said before in my Eagle's Schedule Predictions that I think the Texans of this year, remind me of the Eagles last year. I still think that. Instead of picking an athletic OL, They go with the most athletic DL here. The Texans have to go against Andrew Luck twice a year. So, they have to make his life hell, somehow. Clowney can help with that.

2. St. Louis Rams

OT Greg Robinson

I feel that the Rams could be SO good. The problem is their starting QB is always getting injured. So, to protect him, they have to go with who I believe is the offensive line equivalent to Jadeveon Clowney. This is another pick that could be sold to the highest bidder and then the Rams pick up a WR, S or QB with the pick they receive. Yet, as I have stated before, there are no trades in this mock. This guy is big and has a whole bunch of upside. He WILL get better at pass protection and they will become a whole lot better in the run game as well.

3. Jacksonville Jaguars

QB Johnny Manziel

Cmon bro, dont look like that. They're...uhh..okay....kinda.

That's also the face the Jaguars made when they witnessed the Texans take Jadeveon Clowney. Ahh....who cares? They get Manziel instead. He isnt my favorite QB in the draft. A lot of people think that he'll be the next Tim Tebow. I cant agree with that statement. #1 guess who won the Super Bowl this year. Guess how tall their QB is. Guess who the defensive coordinator of that team was before coming to the Jaguars. Some fun facts for you. Johnny Manziel lead all QBs last year with a 73.5% completion percentage. Last year, Manziel had a below average amount of passes batted down at the O Line. Blake Bortles was above average. QBs of 6'2'' or shorter had a smaller percentage of their passes batted down than QBs 6'3'' or taller. Manziel has the same hand size of Cam Newton. His hands are also bigger than RG3, Matt Ryan, Derek Carr, Teddy Briedgewater and Colin Kaepernick. Two years ago, guess who had the third biggest hands in the NFL Draft of all QBs? Thats right, the guy that won the Super Bowl. Numbers dont lie.

4. Cleveland Browns

OL Jake Matthews

Once again, they can get a quarterback later on. They cant get a lineman of THIS caliber, though. Jake Matthews had to protect that QB everyone loves to hate, just a pick ago. Johnny Manziel probably had a lot of his success because of this guy being that protector. So whoever that QB is later on, he can feel safe knowing the guy protecting him is Jake Matthews! Put him in on the right side and him and Joe Thomas will be taking care of the QB to be, for years to come. 

5. Oakland Raiders

WR Sammy Watkins

This is what the Raiders are doing when Watkins falls into their lap, sprint to make the pick before someone changes their mind. NO it is not because they love speed either. Watkins is the closest wide receiver to Megatron since he went to the Lions. The funny thing about that is one, he is only 6'1'' and he hasn't reached his ceiling either. The Raiders solidified their line and they need someone else for their now protected QB to throw to, other than Denarius Moore. This guy will be fun to watch for years to come.

6. Atlanta Falcons

OLB Khalil Mack

                           

Once again the Falcons should be running up to the podium to pick this guy. He is the best player available. He fills a need. He IS a fit. Make the switch to the 3-4 defense with who they got in FA and have this guy help your defense. The Falcons are decent on offense once everyone is back healthy. However, someone needs to get to Drew Brees, somebody needs to contain Cam Newton. That could be Mack. So you couldn't trade up and get Jadeveon Clowney? Oh well. You got this guy instead! That is one hell of a consolation prize.

7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

TE Eric Ebron

I wanted to go with Jerry Ricecakes here SO BAD! But they dont need a WR. So, probably the biggest athlete of all time, is going to continue to fall. They do however, need a TE. Eric Ebron is going to be a difference in this league. He will be the next Vernon Davis without the early attitude problems. Look at that catch! Man oh man!

8. Minnesota Vikings

QB Teddy Bridgewater

I dont know what is happening to this guy's draft stock but it has decreased and decreased. I dont think he deserves it. He's the closest thing to Aaron Rodgers and the most NFL ready QB in this draft. Ponder isnt the answer and neither is Matt Cassell. Let this guy battle for a starting spot and give a pretty good receiving corps a pretty good quarterback. AND PLEASE....let the man wear his gloves.

9. Buffalo Bills

LB CJ Mosley

See look...they even already have his jersey photoshopped. It just works. After missing out on Khalil Mack and Eric Ebron, the Bills will take their need and once again the best player available. He is another guy who I just cant place why he is sliding in mocks....but he doesnt in mine. He's talented and a great leader. Bills always need any help they can get. Why? Tom Brady. That's why. And when CJ Mosley can learn in his early years, going against one of the greatest QBs of all time, that is a great blessing for him and his future.

10. Detroit Lions

WR Mike Evans

It was between him and Justin Gilbert. The Lions pick Evans because they saw how it benefited the Bears last year with Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffrey. Imagine Calvin Johnson on one side, Evans on the other and Golden Tate in the slot, with Reggie Bush in the backfield. That is one set offense and one happy quarterback.

11. Tennessee Titans

HaSean Clinton-Dix

So, Titans always need help, everywhere. Plain and simple. Give them a safety that can help compete against Andrew Luck. Also known as HaHa, Clinton-Dix is a great midfielder with great range. He also has made some good plays against the run. Alabama always has great defenses, but sometimes they dont always translate well into the league. HaSean will.

12. New York Giants

OT Taylor Lewan

Defense is a possibility here. As I said before, the Giants defense isn't really that scary in my Eagles Schedule Prediction. I also stated that if Super Eli returns, their season could be a different story. If they want Super Eli to return, they need to protect him. Taylor Lewan is the best choice for that. 

13. St Louis Rams

QB Blake Bortles' girlfriend

And Bortles himself as well, I guess. I mean...the guy can OBVIOUSLY make good decisions. Why wouldn't you invest in someone that Greg Robinson can protect for the next ten years? This guy is the next Ben Roethlisberger...and with a girlfriend like THAT...you're not going to have to worry about any sexual assault charges.

14. Chicago Bears

DT Aaron Donald

The Bears need someone to help them in every aspect of the defense. Aaron Donald is that guy. He will help the rest of the DL, the LBs and the CBs. It all starts at the line and with Donald, you get a great player who can play!

15. Pittsburgh Steelers

CB Justin Gilbert

The defensive backfield over there is getting a little old. So, they help sure up their future with a guy who probably shouldn't have slid this low in the first place. Justin Gilbert is what you look for in a cornerback and hasn't hit his ceiling yet. 8-8 for the team with the highest amount of super bowl rings is unacceptable. This will be a great start towards helping that record out.

16. Dallas Cowboys

CB Kyle Fuller

The most NFL ready CB is Kyle Fuller. They need him bad. They have to go against the talented receiving corp of the other three teams in their division. Kyle Fuller does that. He's a steal at this point. I think he's better than Darqueze Dennard as well.

17. Baltimore Ravens

WR Marqise Lee

Give that man some more people to throw to. PLEASE! Jadeveon Clowney was pretty non-existent in 2013, but he did have one HELL of a 2012. If he can be the #1 pick in this draft, Marqise Lee can be the 17th. Give him a good quarterback and let him show everyone what he can do.

18. New York Jets

CB Darqueze Dennard

They got their wide receiver, they have an okay line. Two QBs are going to battle it out. There's two picks I am looking at here. CB or OL. Zack Martin is a possibility, but they need to replace Cromartie. This guy will make their CB corp one of the strongest in the league, which they need if they're going to go against the Patriots. Dennard doesnt get beat deep, ever. 

19. Miami Dolphins

OL Zack Martin

Put him anywhere on the line and you're good to go. They're decent anywhere else but maybe RB. They could use him. Not much else to say. 

20. Arizona Cardinals

QB Derek Carr 

Carson Palmer isnt going to play forever. The Cardinals will need to think about the future. So here, they pick their future quaterback because they most likely wont get the chance to get a QB as good as him, later on. 

21. Green Bay Packers

Calvin Pryor

He pretty much falls in their laps here. He is the perfect guy for them at 21. The Predator look-alike, the Louisville Slugger. This guy will help Green Bay on D a lot. He'll knock out his opponents and he'll keep offensive coordinators up all night. Packers run to the podium after this one.

22. Philadelphia Eagles

OLB Anthony Barr

This is what Chip Kelly yells for them to do when they see he makes it to them at 22. Alright, I admit it...I think if he makes it to the Cowboys, they'll take him. This is my mock draft though dammit. He's a PERFECT pick for them. And people have been reporting he has been sliding. I dont agree with it too much though. Tall, fast, hasnt reached his ceiling. Perfect pick here.

23. Kansas City Chiefs

DT Stephon Tuitt

Andy Reid loves him some linemen. I mean he REALLY values them. Plus, he likes to reach. Im sure Big Red sees the chance to draft Tuitt and he's salivating. After making an order to the nearest barbecue spot. Andy makes the call to Stephon next. Not like its a bad pick or anything. I just dont think he will get a WR because thats what Andy Reid does.

24. Cincinnati Bengals

LB Ryan Shazier

Best player available and fills a need. Throw him on any LB spot on the defense and he'll produce for you. I see him as a Mychal Kendricks type of guy. He'll be a beast. Roby is also a possibility but.....

25. San Diego Chargers

CB Bradley Roby

The Chargers get him instead. Once again the best player available, fits perfectly for the need on the team. Plus, some people think he's better than Justin Gilbert. 

26. Cleveland Browns

RB Carlos Hyde

The Browns need to get the right RB this time. They can get their QB next pick which isn't too far away. Carlos Hyde will be the RB that finds his way into the first round. I couldnt help but having three Ohio St. players getting drafted in a streak. 

27. New Orleans Saints

CB Jason Verrett

Put him with Jairus Byrd and you have a great defensive backfield. The Saints know how to pick players and they will get the best guy available. Thats Jason Verrett, who I believe will be the next Asante Samuel. 

28. Carolina Panthers

WR Odell Beckham Jr.

Can you think of a more perfect guy to replace Steve Smith? Can you think of a more perfect guy to pick? This is who Andy Reid should've picked, but nope he's too smart for you. This is who the Panthers will be happy they see available. Although under 6' he has the leap of someone many inches taller. He fights for the ball. He can kick return it. He fits. Do I really need to explain myself further?

29. New England Patriots

DE Kony Ealy

It seems that someone of a high caliber ALWAYS falls to the Patriots. That continues here with Kony Ealy. He'll be an instant starter and will benefit greatly from being on that team. I hate saying this. I hate the Patriots. However, I respect the Patriots and I accept this as a certain truth. Could also be a WR as well.

30. San Francisco 49ers

DT Louis Nix III

The Niners are a smart team. Somebody has to help slow down Beast Mode. This guy will be given the opportunity to do so. He is a lot leaner than he was in school and is fully healthy after his injury. If he never got injured, he'd probably get drafted sooner. The 49ers dont complain.

31. Denver Broncos
DT RaShede Hageman

They could take some other positions here, but I think Hageman is the best player available, which is who they'd want to take. After a crazy free agency, they continue to make the defense better. I think Sua-Filo is also a possibility though.

32. Seattle Seahawks

WR Brandin Cooks

After losing Golden Tate, they pick up a guy who's probably better than Tate could wish to be. Their defense is set! They extended Earl Thomas and Richard Sherman. They won the Super Bowl, they're living good. They had to have seen this guy play. Oregon isnt too far away. So they take a chance on the speedy guy. 

So thats it...

I would've liked to do a full one, but its getting a little late. Perhaps after the first round is finished I'll continue from the points that were actually made. Thank you for your time and I hoped you enjoyed it! Join me for my next article soon! 

Amazing Spider-Man 2 Review

Spoilers may follow

Constructive Criticism is highly welcomed and appreciated !

Oh the amount of memes and .gifs I can't wait to use in this one! 

What's up, world? This is is you're man, Eazy in the world of writing once again. You might not know this about me, but if you know me, you know I do. So, I've definitely been looking forward to Amazing Spider-Man 2 and all its glorious action. I haven't written a movie review in a while and its my first on the blog, so without further ado. Here it goes...

The Mechanics...

The story of the film is probably where the film lacks the most. Not because its bad. Its just very jumbled together. It begins with Richard Parker talking about Oscorp and seeming to be in a hurry. Yes, the second film took a bigger focus on Peter's parents. The intro to the movie is a recap of the beginning of the first Amazing Spider-Man, you just get to see more into it. Although a certain Peter Parker discovery does light a spark inside him, later on in the movie, it just wasn't a necessary piece to the story. This brings back the familiar feeling that the director, Marc Webb, did certain things, to avoid being too much like the original Sam Raimi films. Which is understandable, of course. The first one only came out 12 years before this one. Where certain additions from him work well, the Richard and Mary element of the film just doesnt fit in.

After the flashback, it brings you back to present day. Spider-Man(Andrew Garfield) is saving the city and having a good time being himself. He has Gwen Stacy(Emma Stone). He's graduating. All is well. Except for the visions he has of Gwen's father. This is the first domino falling to make Peter's life suck in the film. This leads to the introduction of Max Dillon/Electro(Jamie Foxx) and later on, Harry Osborn/Green Goblin(Dane Dehaan), the main villains of the movie. Trying to develop them both at the same time, while Peter is trying to figure out his parents, as mentioned earlier, its easy to see why it could get jumbled, pretty quickly. Even though its 2 hours and 22 minutes, it almost feels like too many things were left out. And it feels like it ended too soon.

However, a good part of the story is the love between Gwen and Peter. The love story roots are obvious in Marc Webb's DNA. This is where Amazing Spider-Man seemed to flow the best. If it wasn't because of the comfort Webb had in this situation, it was definitely due to the chemistry between Emma Stone and Andrew Garfield, who are actually dating in real life.

Really? I thought that guy was gay.

The script is another con to the movie, overall, but just like the chemistry between Stone and Garfield, saves the complicated parts of the story. The rest of the cast really delivers. While Tobey Maguire pretty much nailed his portrayal of Peter Parker, Andrew Garfield is easily a superior Spider-Man than anyone before him. Garfield talked about how honored he was to be cast in this movie and it shows. Hes fun to watch, the wise cracks are there in full effect. He is constantly worried about his loved ones, yet as all know know, he is the furthest thing from perfect. 

Emma Stone is charming as always. She portrays Gwen Stacy well. People probably dont realize how good, actually. The caring science nerd, who's as hot as she is smart. In fact, probably as smart/or smarter than Peter is. A scene talking about Spider-Man's webbing was a great example of that.

Jamie Foxx plays Max Dillon and Electro well. Dane Dehaan follows up his performance in The Chronicle greatly and is very convincing as Harry Osborn. Too bad you dont get to see a lot of him as Green Goblin because the small portion of the movie he is, is the best the film has to offer, which is also the biggest twist, as well. 

Sally Field is a sweetheart as Aunt May. Paul Giamatti doesnt really get enough time to shine as Aleksei Sytsevich, which he will in the future, so thats perfectly fine, since the film was already a little crowded. Plus, its still a little weird seeing the robotic Rhino suit.

Peter Parker seems to be portrayed as sort of a hipster with the way he dresses. Yet, this is probably the BEST Spidey costume in a live-action movie before.

The size of the eyes really make a difference.

If there is something that the Amazing Spider-Man 2 did right, man oh man, is it the costume. It took everything right about the original and just made the eyes bigger. Perfection. The rest of the costumes that they wore were done well too. It is pretty obvious the influence the story and character appearances get from the Ultimate universe, despite the title being Amazing. This is welcomed because its hard to modernize something from way back in the 60s. Some of the ways they introduced characters in the Ultimate series works out a lot better as well, especially for Electro.

New York will probably always be a perfect place to have a superhero movie take place. Especially for Spider-Man. Web slinging around NYC just seems so right. Every scene in the movie had the perfect set design to match it. 

The music in the movie, with Hans Zimmer as the big acception here, was pretty forgettable. Honestly, it just depends on the viewer's tastes. Although, the old school spidey theme used as a ring tone and a techno Itsy Bitsy Spider was cool.

Thoughts and Opinions...

As I said before, I really enjoyed the performances. That really made this movie grand. Sure its a little messy and inconsistent, it doesnt quite hit like its Disney counterparts. Its still a good movie. I grew up on Spider-Man, he's probably my favorite superhero. He was a game changer for Stan Lee when he was thought of and very different at the time. Since I started reading and watching Spider-Man things, there hasnt been a more accurate representation of the character and his story. That includes the animated shows and Sam Raimi's films. As far as ranking goes, I'll definitely put it like this...

Spider-Man 2 > Spider-Man 1 > Amazing Spider-Man 2 > Amazing Spider-Man > Spider-Man 3

Right in the middle there. And it deserves to be in the middle, I think. I get while certain people are just used to the Raimi films, others just wont be happy because its not dark and gritty enough. Which is far from what Spider-Man is anyway. Others just can never be pleased. Some just wont like it because they dont like Spider-Man. And I'm not going to care about that too much because Spider-Man probably doesnt care either.

See...I told you.

All in all, it was entertaining and I feel anyone who complains about the movie, most likely didnt read a Spider-Man comic in their life. They more so, like the idea of Spider-Man than they do the actual character himself. I digress...I have mentioned its not the perfect movie. And nothing is. It isnt DKR or Avengers. It is probably as good as Man of Steel though. I dont know...maybe if one of the actors actually died right before it was released people would've given it a more attention. Not saying thats happened with a movie before or anything.

I talked before about how Richard and Mary's part dont fit in. I think that maybe it wouldve been better if Disney owned the franchise and that part of the story could benefit from the huge universe Marvel has going on right now. Ari Avad is making his own little universe with this smaller franchise, to compete with Disney and Fox. That's part of the reason the movie feels crowded. They already announced Amazing Spider-Man 3 and unofficially the fourth as well. Plus, they announced two spin-offs, Venom and The Sinister Six, as well. Nothing wrong with that. Its always wise to plan for the future....but not when it negatively affects the present to the point, that the future might not have the chance to become. 

And what they're doing with this movie kind of does that. Rhino is only in the film for a few minutes at the most.....and its screen time that couldve gone to something else. Perhaps, they couldve just hinted at it like they did with Doc Ock's arms, Venom's symbiote and Vulture's wings. 

Ari Avad forced Venom on Sam Raimi and I feel some of the things, in the film, were forced on Marc Webb. That's why we didnt get a Spider-Man 4 with the originals. That's why Marc Webb is gone after Amazing Spider-Man 3. I respect Ari Avad and he's an important part in getting Marvel Studios started let alone Spider-Man. But that dude is really enjoying the hell out of his power too much. I do hope that some day they can sell it back to Disney I mean IMAGINE the possibilities!

Hopefully, the future movies can take advantage of the money it made in the first weekend and continue to do better, since the second movie was so much better than the first. This movie wasnt a let down but it wasnt a game changer. It wasnt a horrible film but it wont win any awards either. It is a decent movie. 

It is a 7.75 out of 10.

Donald Sterling Scandal Reaction

This is an open-minded look at the situation with Donald Sterling and how we, the people, are reacting to it. I have spent much time voicing my opinions and feelings on the subject and would like to say I apologize if anything that follows offends anyone. I do not support Donald Sterling. I write this to inspire thinking and conversation. Not to hurt anyone's feelings. I'm not responsible for how you feel about it though and I dont speak for you in this article or even my initial reaction. Before I continue, I'd like to say I was just as enraged as many others when I first heard of this. However, I always take the time to look at things logically.

  

THE SITUATION

If you've kept yourself off of the internet, television and anything for the past few days, let me catch you up on what's going on. Donald Sterling is a former attorney who owns, or owned(depending on when you read this and what the NBA Owner vote decided)the Los Angeles Clippers. Donald Sterling was recorded telling his girlfriend not to bring any black people to his games, especially Magic Johnson. He also stated he doesnt have any problems with black people. He just doesnt want her to "broadcast them".

Now, no one situation that happens should decide what or who a man is, as a whole, especially if its being racist. Thing is, this dude has been in to this kind of situation before. In 2006, he was accused of not renting to non-Koreans in Koreatown and African-Americans in Beverly Hills. Supposedly, he said that "Hispanics smoke and drink and hang around the building" and that "black tenants smell and attract vermin." Not enough? In 2009, he was sued by a Clippers' executive for employment discrimination involving age and race. Once again, supposedly, Sterling is said to have wanted his team full of "poor black boys from the South" and a "white head coach."

So what do you think? Three strikes, hes out? Or no? Well whatever your beliefs are, you're free to have them. As he is, his. Oh wait....he paid in fines over the years for this. And what did he have to say about his recent accusations of being racist? He said he isnt racist.

Alright this is the last time I make a joke out of this.

So is he racist? To me? Yeah. Obviously, he doesnt realize he is. This is normal to him. Does a lunatic know they're a lunatic? Does a pedophile know they're a pedophile? Sandusky still says he's innocent. In his mind, I'm sure he is. That doesnt mean they aren't these things. I dont condone this man's actions, I dont support him. But lets crawl into the cobwebs of this old man's mind. See Donnie was once a young spoiled brat who was the apple of his parents' eyes. At that age...in that time, this kid was taught black people were beneath him. He's just acting as he was taught. It is a part of who he is. Im sure the dude has done some good things as well. I just cant find anything. And so because of this mindset...and his actions, he was sanctioned.

As of April 29th 2014, Adam Silver banned Donald Sterling from pretty much everything in the NBA following the stand Los Angeles Clippers took and the outcry by fans. No Clipper's games, no decision-making, no board of governor meetings. Nadda.....its over Donnie. Or is it?

What is really over? This man's feelings? His racist mindset?

I honestly dont think so. You cant really punish a person's thoughts and feelings out of them. They're still going to feel that way afterward. I cant speak for anyone else. I can only speak for myself. Maybe everyone who is in support of this just wants to know he is out of their sport so they can be comfortable again. I dont know.

Immediately occurring after the announcement was a vote by 29 other team owners to decide whether Sterling has to sell the Clippers or not. I'm not against this but what will that do? I assume the vote will go through as I am writing this prior to it being done. Maybe, I over think these types of things. But....I mean this dude is going to make money off of his punishment. Does that make much sense? Like I said, maybe all you want is for the dude to be away from the sport you love. If thats how you feel, good for you. You got your wish, we can move on in life.

Here's the thing...why? Why do we really want Donald Sterling sanctioned by the NBA? Is it right? Probably. Would it make us feel good? Yeah. But what did we do there? We got someone to handle our problems for us. Were we not capable of doing something on our own? Why did we need Adam Silver to ban him? So he can hide? Why might I ask do we want him to hide? Wouldn't you rather know who you're dealing with? I sure would. Put him out there. Now he's banned and out of site. Which also makes him out of mind. The NBA goes back to happy lala land, where amazing happens and everyone loves one another and butterflies fly free. 

It is a good look. And Silver represented himself and the NBA well. As it should be or appear to be. Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world and the NBA brings players from all sorts of different ethnic backgrounds. This definitely needed to be done for the best of the NBA's reputation. So its not a bad decision, by any means.

The Clippers themselves were going to boycott the playoffs until Chris Paul and Doc Rivers convinced them to play. Honestly, those two are getting a little too much hate, but its pretty obvious what they care about, rings and money. To continue, I feel if players want to play, they should play, no matter what. They are free to do whatever they please. Yet, this is how you follow up the actions to make a stand?

 That'll show em.

They turn their warm ups inside out and throw them on the floor. There is no limit or requirement to make a stand. Yet, this seemed a little week. However, comparing this situation to what Muhammad Ali, Malcolm X, Martin Luther King, etc. went through and how they took their own stands are a little off. So, I guess it kind of evens out, in the end.

And it worked, right? Everything is cool again, as I said before....so why do I keep on bringing up the same question? 

I feel everything should be fine from here on out as far as THIS situation goes. And if you do too....then I invite you to stop reading this. However, if you want to dive a little deeper into it with me. Continue on...

THE POSSIBILITY

All of the things that Donald Sterling are, stupid arent one of them. You dont become a billionaire, if you're stupid. That man is brilliant and has friends in high places. Rich people stay rich. Im not suggesting any conspiracy is going on but there are some funny coincidences going on here. Lets start with the numbers. In 1981, Donald Sterling acquired the Clippers for 12.5 million dollars. Before the playoffs started. I saw on ESPN that the Clippers were worth around 500 million dollars. Right after the recording was released, they were talking about the Clippers being worth 900 million. Now, there are talks that its worth 1-1.5 billion dollars. How does it go up in value so fast? Demand, perhaps? Amazing how many people are rushing to pay the man they hated and is supposed to be getting punished right now.

My next topic is V. Stiviano. The girlfriend.

 Anyone else think she looks like the chick at the end of Trilogy of Terror?

UPDATE 5/3/2014: Stiviano said in an interview that Sterling is not racist. Sterling has also been rumored to stating that he should've paid her off.

Tell me something. What benefit does this chick have of exposing her sugar daddy? Why would a chick who was smart enough to get with a highly successful man, who could've picked any of the gold diggers out there, now cut off her supply of all the nice things he was being able to get her? What man is she going to get that from now? Any man that sees that is thinking "Umm....my ass isnt getting recorded" 

Maybe the attention is all she thinks about. Why would a woman who has everything she needs going to put that in danger though? The answer is.....she wouldn't unless she got paid. If you listened to the recording, the whole point to the conversation is because she's broadcasting herself all over instagram and Donald Sterling's friends are contacting him about it. Next point. 

Who are these friends? You dont think there are a few other NBA owners that were calling him? You think theres no other old white guy who was brought up the same way he was and now owns a basketball team? I'm sure they do. Whether they were friends with him or not....they definitely know this guy. They saw him at all the areas that he was banned during Adam Silver's PC afterwards. Someone had to know how the dude was and probably felt the same way. You've probably seen this type of situation before. Sometimes a dear friend gets into big trouble. As a friend, whos in charge, you make a deal with them to have an early retirement. Of course, that retirement comes with a large sum of money, possibly to keep quiet, for peaceful purposes. Way I see it, Donald Sterling is just taking the fall to cover something else up. Also, Donald Sterling is said to have cancer. Perhaps, Donald Sterling already planned on selling the team and wanted to maximize profit. I'm not saying this was all planned from the start but as I've mentioned before, rich people know how to stay rich. Maybe Sterling was just waiting on the perfect time to make a move. So the guy gets banned and now has to pay 2.5 million dollars in fines. How would you feel about paying 2.5 million dollars if you were about to make 1 billion off the same people who want you out so much? I'd be perfectly fine with that.
Get "shunned" by everyone, make 1 billion dollars now, since people are in such a hurry to get you out of the NBA, all while thinking because it is the right thing to do. Then, go hide and live some happy years, while everyone forgets about everything you did, because they're too focused on Basketball and it being the peaceful, perfect lala land, that everyone wanted. Sounds like a good idea to me.

That is why I dont think Stiviano is that stupid. She said herself, thats her friend, shes his confidant. While everyone is thinking she is stupid....she's banking with her man. So what if the man's wife takes half. Now, you made exactly what the Clippers were worth not too long ago.
I hope I'm wrong. I hope its just the Conspiracy Theorist in me. But its always a possibility. Plus, we always talk about how every aspect of the NBA(especially the Playoffs) is rigged.

THE BIG PICTURE
Earlier, I asked if there was anything else we could've done as people. We could've. We can. I feel we depend on those who are in charge way too much to get things done. We, the have nots, can be so powerful, but we don't know it. As sad as Adam Silver was that a man gave the NBA a bad look. I guarantee he felt great to be needed. Isn't that what people who are in charge need? To be needed?
When something bad happens, or something I dont agree with. Generally, I ignore it or dont acknowledge it, as that gives that situation power over me. I think a bigger stand was to be us stand together, ourselves and not go to the games, nor support them. Yeah...the players deserve our support. And the players who did play, wouldn't need it. If we stopped going to the games and the games were still going on, those players were still going to need to get paid. Who's paying them? Donald Sterling. Who isnt making money off the fans, who aren't in the seats, to cover the money he paid the players? Donald Sterling. Wouldn't that be a bigger statement? Instead, all I hear from everyone is they needed to do something because they wouldn't feel comfortable going to or watching the Clippers games. Then we just could've NOT gone. Racism is alive and well....and punishing them and letting them go into hiding is just showing other racists as long as they dont get caught or act like they arent, they can live perfectly fine. As I said, I'd rather know who I'm dealing with so I can avoid them, or know what I have to deal with when Im forced to work with that person.
That's just me. I just feel we should depend more on ourselves when we have these sort of issues in life. We have the power.

FINAL THOUGHTS
This isn't about black people, this is about the people. This is about a man who has embarrassed us all. This man holds back the human race with his idea of anyone who isnt white. He's so out of touch that he feels everyone feels the same way he does. You can't teach a guy like this a lesson....he's been thinking that way for over 80 years. Some form of racism will always live but we can do something about it and we should. 

For evolution and growing as a race, I'm Brandon "Eazy" Moore and I wish you nothing but happiness, success and to always think outside the box. Love your life, chase your dreams and reach your dreams. Don't let anyone like Donald Sterling affect you.