Jon Niese did it all for the Mets highlighting an Opening Day 11-2 win over the Padres.

Opening Day brings enthusiasm for every baseball fan. That includes the Astros, who actually posted an 8-2 win over their new division rival Texas last night. Even if I don’t consider the ESPN Sunday Night game the true start of the season, Houston is 1-0 and Texas is 0-1. Meaning the Astros were first in the AL West. April Fool’s Day indeed. Everyone wants to believe that a new year can bring hope. April baseball normally doesn’t matter. But it’s always nice to get off on the right foot.

The Mets did it by erupting for 11 runs on the Padres in an 11-2 win at Citi Field. The Yankees didn’t, getting trounced 8-2 by the Red Sox in the Bronx. It’s still funny to see both New York teams open at home at the same time. If you stayed home and channel flipped, it was the best of both worlds. But at the same time, annoying. Even as a passionate Yankee fan, I like to watch the Mets occasionally. They have an interesting ball club that features a nice rotation including flame thrower Matt Harvey, Opening Day winner Jon Niese and Dillon Gee. Eventually, we’ll see Zach Wheeler, who starts in Triple-A Las Vegas along with catching prospect Travis d’Arnaud. It should be fun to follow them.

For the Yanks, it was weird seeing no Derek Jeter. He’s back in Tampa rehabbing. Meanwhile, injured stars Curtis Granderson, Alex Rodriguez and Mark Teixeira all were in the dugout. Most of the attention centered around Mariano Rivera. The legendary all-time saves leader received a rousing ovation during player introductions in what will be his final season. It’s hard to believe this is really it for Mo. Once, he was the bridge to John Wetteland in ’96. Then, he took over the closer job and became the greatest modern day reliever. When we do see him out there, the support will be overwhelming. It is indeed special to root for Rivera, who still dons the familiar #42 commemorating the memory of Jackie Robinson. The Robinson family loves that he’ll be the last player to ever wear 42. In a year where the movie Jackie Robinson is out, it seems fitting.

As for the baseball, the Yanks fell behind early against Boston. The Red Sox used a four-run second off losing ace C.C. Sabathia. Ironically, it was the plate discipline of newcomer Jackie Bradley, Jr. that led to CC’s demise. He dug out of an 0-2 hole to work a walk that loaded the bases with one out. Bradley’s speed allowed Jason Inglesias to get an RBI infield hit for the game’s first run. Ex-Phillie Shane Victorino followed with a two-run single and Dustin Pedroia added an RBI single for a 4-0 lead.

The Yanks’ only offense came from catcher Francisco Cervelli. The former Staten Island Yankee delivered a clutch two out single that plated new Yankees Kevin Youkilis and Vernon Wells. But the story of the day was runners left on base. The Yankee Pinstripes stranded 21. That included a frustrating seventh. Trailing 5-2, they had first and second with no one out for the middle of the order. But Eduardo Nunez took a called third strike, Robby Cano struck out swinging and Youkilis also K’d to end the threat. The Sox put the game away by taking advantage of a Cano miscue to score two of their three runs in the ninth off Joba Chamberlain. Astonishingly, Jacoby Ellsbury was credited for a two-run single even though Cano botched the play. Victorino added his third RBI.

Jon Lester went five for his first win. He wasn’t great but worked in and out of trouble, allowing two earned on five hits with two walks and seven strikeouts. Sabathia also lasted five, giving up all four in the second while walking four and fanning five. He threw 102 pitches and admitted afterwards that he couldn’t put away hitters. But his elbow felt fine. Obviously, the Yanks need better from CC and the pitching staff until they get healthy. Cano must come through. His failure today was a sinking reminder of last October. He did have a hit but needs to deliver. Youkilis looked odd without his trademark mustache and goatee. He doubled in four at bats and made a nice play in the field to cut down a run at the plate. He played first instead of third with light hitting Jayson Nix getting the start at the hot corner.

For the Mets, it was a happy recap. Especially for Niese, who along with pitching into the seventh, was perfect at the plate. The southpaw is now the ace by default after the crushing news to Johan Santana which probably ended his Met career. A shame. Niese acted the part going six and two thirds while permitting two runs on four hits. He walked two and K’d four. He got the job done including with the bat, finishing the day 2-for-2 with an RBI single. Indeed, Niese is batting 1,000. A pretty cool thing for the Amazin’s.

There were plenty of bright spots. Nine of the Mets 11 runs came with two outs. On a day where David Wright knocked in only one and Ike Davis took the collar in five at bats with the golden sombrero (4 K’s), they got contributions throughout. Ruben Tejada busted out of his Spring malaise with a big two out run scoring single. He had two hits and two runs scored. Six different Mets had multi-hit games including newcomers Collin Cowgill (grand slam), Marlon Byrd (2-5, 2 RBI’s) and John Buck (2-4, 2 R, RBI). Second baseman Daniel Murphy also went 2-for-5 with a two out RBI. He batted second behind Cowgill, who GM Sandy Alderson brought in from Oakland.

The Met outfield today was Lucas Duda in left, Cowgill in center and Byrd in right. It’ll be a question mark all season. Kirk Nieuwenheis is on the bench and spark plug Jordany Valdespin can fill in in left and at second. Valdespin had a big Spring to make the team. He can handle the bat and has speed but must be more consistent to play under Terry Collins. Collins will likely shift guys in and out based on match-ups and who’s hot. At least they boast a strong infield with All-Star Wright and Davis carrying the lumber at the corners.

The Mets didn’t sell out their home opener. Part of it’s due to uncertainty from a skeptical fan base that wants to see a winner. Newsflash. It takes time. Patience is the key. At the very least, they have some building blocks for the future. Pitching should be a strength. Harvey goes in Game Two Wednesday with Gee to follow. That’s a solid front three with Jeremy Hefner the No.4 by default. Shaun Marcum is already on the DL, leaving them a little thin. How soon will we see Wheeler? For the time being, the Mets get off to an ideal start on a day Wright was named captain.

A couple of quick Opening Day Notes:

-Bryce Harper hit a homer in his first two at bats in the Nats’ 2-0 shutout of the Marlins. Harper is in line for a big year. Thirty homers and 100 RBI’s should be within reach on a team that’s the NL favorite. We’ll see if they can live up to the hype.

-Clayton Kershaw broke a scoreless game between the Dodgers and Giants by going yard off George Kontos. The Dodger ace led off the eighth by clubbing his first career home run that just cleared the center field fence. Kershaw dueled with Giants ace Matt Cain, who tossed six scoreless (8 K’s). Kershaw is still in the game having permitted just three hits while fanning seven. He’ll get a chance to complete it.

-A two-run homer from Anthony Rizzo lifted the Cubs past the Pirates 3-1. Jeff Samardzija (8 IP 0 R 9 K’s) out-dueled A.J. Burnett (5.2 IP 3 ER 10 K’s) for his first win. Hard to believe he’s their Opening Day starter.

-Justin Verlander K’d seven over five after signing a record seven-year $180 million extension with Detroit. The Tigers lead the Twins 3-0. Verlander is arguably the best pitcher. But long-term deals for starters are too risky. Most pitchers don’t last. Look at what happened to the Mets with Santana and Pedro Martinez. Remember that awful contract the Dodgers gave out to Kevin Brown? I’m not a fan of it. So, how much do you think Kershaw will get?

-Speaking of absurd, the Giants signed NL MVP Buster Posey for nine years, $167 million. He’s a catcher. There’s no way he’ll live up to it. He’s already a hero in the Bay area. Eventually, Posey will shift to first.

-UPDATE: The Dodgers tacked on three more to take a 4-0 lead. Kontos is charged with all four runs.

-UPDATE II: It’s a final. The Dodgers shutout the Giants 4-0. Kershaw goes the distance. He was spectacular, needing only 85 pitches (57 strikes) to blank San Francisco. Final line: 9 IP 4 H 0 BB 7 K

Two other quick hits:

-It’s always a joy to hear Vin Scully call a game. He is the best ever. And he still does it solo, using those adjectives to describe the national past time.

-Kevin Burkhardt is still working the field for SNY. Hard to believe no one’s hired him for a better gig. But he still got to interview Emmy Rossum between innings. Never a bad thing as Keith Hernandez noted during the Mets telecast. Hernandez was mustache free. Another oddity.

It doesn’t get much better than the Big East Tournament if you’re a college hoops fanatic. It’s hard to believe that this is the last time we’ll see the greatest conference together. Big games are being played at Madison Square Garden. Ask any player or coach and they’ll tell you how much it means to play on the biggest stage. For them, it’s a dream come true. A chance to create a lasting memory under the bright lights.

I’ve been a St. John’s fan my entire life. Raised on the 1985 Final Four team of Chris Mullin, Walter Berry, Mark Jackson, Willie Glass and Bill Wennington along with legendary coach Lou Carnesecca, it was in my blood early on. I can still recall the pain of losing to Patrick Ewing and those big bad Hoyas of Georgetown under John Thompson. They couldn’t beat them. Had they, no doubt they win the school’s only national title. Instead, I’m left reflecting back to rooting for a bunch of upstarts from Villanova with Rollie Massimino roaming the sidelines with that ear to ear grin. His team couldn’t miss that day. One for Cinderella which is what March Madness is all about.

This time of year is special. No matter who you pull for, it’s sensational and “awesome baby” with a capital ‘A’ as ESPN enthusiast Dick Vitale says. I’m a big fan of him because he sees the game for what it really is or should be all about. Not our beloved brackets with money being tossed around like Rihanna. But about the game and the college athletes who work hard to get here. Some schools have already punched their tickets, including local flavor LIU and Iona, who hopefully won’t have a repeat of last year. You want to see them make the Field of 64 when the real games begin. I don’t count the play-ins. Sorry. That isn’t a first round. But to the kids who play in it, do whatever it takes to make it.

As you can tell, no tournament is better. Not even the Stanley Cup playoffs. Anyone who knows me knows how much I love hockey. It just doesn’t compare. It’s one and done. Either you survive and advance or you go home. Maybe that’s why I put more emphasis on the conference tournaments. If you win your conference, that’s a great accomplishment. We may not have made the Final Four in ’86 but Berry blocking Pearl Washington’s shot to give the St. John’s Redmen that Big East championship meant everything. I listened to it on the radio with Dad and we celebrated like kids in our house. This was before cable. The incredible joy is something I can still feel as I write this. I’m one of those people who can go back to a particular moment and replay it. I still smile thinking about it just as I hurt remembering how close they were a decade later against Ohio State. That damn Scoonie Penn.

If you are like me, then you know what I mean. A team that included Ron Artest, Lavar Postell, Erick Barkley, Bootsy Thornton and Reggie Jessie along with Anthony Glover which fell short of reaching the Final Four. That was a heckuva of a team. The greatest moment being Thornton dropping 40 on Duke including that stepback three at Cameron when me and buddy Brian Sanborn were in Atlantic City. You better believe it mattered.

The Big East means so much to me. It’s part of this city. How I wish the Johnnies had a better finish and were still part of it today. Instead, they’re basically done after falling to former Manhattan coach Jay Wright and Villanova, who are chasing the NCAAs. Hopefully, they’ll make it. They have some pretty good wins including beating Louisville at home with Berkeley Carroll’s own Mikey Andria and Olivia Wilson making ESPN. If they don’t, it would be a crime. It’s about these kind of game where one more win can wrap it up. Also, when you have a good coach like Wright saying how sometimes he wished ‘Nova could win the Big East over the NCAA’s, it tells you how significant it is.

Remember that shot Ray Allen made to beat Allen Iverson for Coach Calhoun and UConn? Or Taleik Brown draining one from the Bronx to clinch it for the Huskies. And of course, that six overtime epic with Syracuse outlasting Connecticut. Jim Boeheim and Jim Calhoun. Two coaches who were an integral part of what made the Big East so tough. There are so many memories. Calhoun with a front row seat for Kemba Walker‘s show that didn’t end until the Huskies won it all. And the Gerry McNamara shooting clinic where he carried the Orange to glory a year after Carmelo Anthony led them to their only NCAA championship. It didn’t matter that they got picked off early. This tournament is special. Just as others around the country are.

It’ll be sad when it concludes. Thirty-one years of being together. Next year, they separate. Syracuse and UConn move on while the Catholic Seven keep the Big East name along with new members Butler, Xavier and Dayton. You’ll still have St. John’s, Seton Hall, Villanova, Georgetown, Providence, Marquette and DePaul. There just won’t be some of those classic match-ups with Syracuse, Connecticut and Pittsburgh. Of course, Louisville exits but they were never really a Big East school. Notre Dame became one even though I still view them as an independent from the time they and the Miami Hurricanes had all those battles on the gridiron. Amazing to think Miami has been in the ACC as long as they have and now Notre Dame might follow them.

The games are still special. Whoever wins will etch their name in history.

Kevin Garnett takes flight in the Celtics’ 116-95 win over the Lakers.
Copyright Getty Images

Tonight, the Lakers visited the Celtics in Beantown, renewing the NBA’s greatest rivalry. For many years, we’ve seen the best of both illustrious franchises. Even though I can’t stomach either, it is always a battle between two teams who hate each other.

The Lakers have played better since Dwight Howard revealed a torn right labrum that’s kept him out recently. Urged on by critical teammate Kobe Bryant with Pau Gasol sidelined over a month, Howard returned to Hollywood’s lineup. Maybe they’re better off without him. The Lakers were blown out by the Celtics 116-95, snapping a three-game win streak. They lost by 21 to fall four games under .500 (23-27). They currently sit 10th in the West and trail eighth place Houston by three and a half games with 32 left.

Howard had an ineffective game, finishing with nine points, nine rebounds and four turnovers in 28 minutes. Dwight “Stage Fright” fouled out and clanged five of six free throws. Ironically, in an interview with ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith that appeared on Sports Center, he admitted that he thinks about all the critics who say he can’t make them when he’s at the charity stripe. Howard even said he was a ninety percent free throw shooter in high school. Let’s repeat that. NINE-TY PER-CENT!

Everyone who’s seen Howard knows he’s a disaster at the line. A career 58.2 free throw shooter entered shooting 49.6 percent. For all those stat masters, that percentage dropped. In 44 games this season, he’s fouled out four times. The Lakers are 1-3 in those games, losing their last two. Ironically, he fouled out in his Hollywood debut in the season opening loss to Dallas. If you care to remember, Los Angeles lost their first three in the Howard Error Era. In what’s been a chaotic season full of turmoil, the purple and gold have been over .500 three different times with their last at the end of 2012. By our count, the Lakers are 21-23 with Dwight and 2-4 without him.

While the feud between Kobe and Howard grows, here are the Celtics minus one of the best point guards in Rajon Rondo. All they’ve done is win their first six minus their floor leader, improving to 26-23. They rank seventh in the East. A half game better than Milwaukee. You want to see how they did it tonight? By sharing the ball. In a game six different Celtics reached double digits, half a dozen also dished out at least three assists. A total team effort from a more desperate club who’s playing for the postseason. Here’s the breakdown:

Assists     Rebs     Pts

Pierce, Paul      6              7            24

Bradley, A.        3              5            10

Garnett, K.        4              5            15

Lee, Courtney   3              5            13

Bass, Brandon   1              4             8

Green, Jeff         1               3            19

Terry, Jason       3              4            15

Barbosa, L.         3               5             0

Collins, Jason    1                1              2

Wilcox, Chris     0                9             8

Melo, Fab            0               0             2

Team Totals:      25            48           116

The Celtics as a team had 25 assists and only turned the ball over nine times. By comparison, the Lakers had 16 assists and 12 turnovers. If you’re curious, Kobe didn’t drop one dime, finishing with 27 (9-15 FG) and four turnovers. A mystifying line. Steve Nash paced LA with five assists and Steve Blake handed out three. Darius Morris was the only other Laker to record more than one. Unselfish basketball was the difference.

Birthday boy Mikey Andria enjoys the college experience during Villanova’s big upset of Louisville.

Villanova upset Louisville last night 73-64. It was an exciting win for the Wildcats in front of a pumped up home crowd who stormed the floor. Apparently, this was too much for WFAN radio host Mike Francesa. He began his show Mike’D On by trashing excited students who dared to celebrate their school’s big victory on ESPN.

Apparently, Villanova students shouldn’t have stormed the court due to the Cardinals’ home loss to Syracuse on Saturday, which snapped an 11-game winning streak. Last I checked, Louisville was ranked No.1 before losing a close game against the Orange, who boast future lottery pick Michael Carter-Williams. It wasn’t a lock they’d win in the most competitive conference, the Big East. The Cards only had two losses entering Tuesday’s game against a ‘Nova team that entered 11-7 (2-3 in Big East).

The Wildcats aren’t what they once were. They were unranked and facing a top five team who has championship aspirations. Yet Francesa continues to moan about this. He’s wrong. It’s college athletics. Why shouldn’t excited kids such as Mikey Andria experience the excitement of campus life? Basketball is a huge deal. Especially in the Big East. Don’t forget that games such as yesterday are going to come to an end when Villanova leaves the conference along with other Catholic institutions like St. John’s and Seton Hall to form their own league.

If it was Francesa’s alma mater St. John’s, he’d say nothing. I went to St. John’s too and love when they pull off a big upset like last week against Notre Dame at Madison Square Garden. Fans should be able to express themselves. They’re in college. Four of the greatest years. If I went to a game now and sat in a student section on top of the court, you better believe I’d be part of the celebration.

It was nice to see Villanova get a huge victory and see them mobbed by classmates. Stick to football Francesa.

American hopes dwindled. At least on the men’s side, don’t expect much in the first tennis grand slam of the year. The Australian Open is three days away with first round matches starting Sunday night on ESPN. That’s really a day later down under.

That’s because top American seed John Isner was forced to pull out of the Australian due to an injury. The biggest server in the game is suffering from bone bruising in his knee. The No.14 ranked player will miss the slam, leaving Sam Querrey as the top highest ranked American left at No.22. Isner tried to play through the pain at the last Australian warm up at the Sydney International. After losing to fellow American Ryan Harrison in straight sets 6-4, 6-4, he decided he couldn’t play on. Prior to this week, he skipped the Hopman Cup.

So, this didn’t come out of left field. This time, injury is Isner’s latest disappointment. Last year, he reached the third round. Despite his monster serve and forehand, Isner remains a work in progress. He’s only made one grand slam quarterfinal and this latest setback isn’t the start he wanted to a new season. Following the Australian are some key hard court events before the clay season this Spring. Hopefully, he won’t be out a long time.

The Australian Open released its draws. Unfortunately, both Harrison and Querrey are in defending champion Novak Djokovic’s quarter. If Harrison wins his first round, he’ll likely meet Djokovic in the second round. Djokovic faces Frenchman Paul-Henri Mathieu in the first round. He’s projected to face Querrey in the Round of 16 if the talented American can get through a section that features No.15 Swiss Stanislas Wawrinka along with veteran American Brian Baker. It looks like it’s lights out for our country.

Sadly, only five male players are representing the stars and stripes thus far with veteran James Blake one of several Americans trying to come through qualifying. UPDATE: He lost to Donald Young in the second round. This is the harsh reality without Andy Roddick, who retired at last year’s U.S. Open. He lost to Argentine Juan Martin Del Potro in four sets. Roddick was our last grand slam winner when he won his only major at the ’03 Open here in NYC.

Other American hopeful Mardy Fish will miss the Australian with a heart ailment. He’s the hardest working player we have but is a giant question mark for 2013.

With the Australian Open on deck, we look at some of the greatest grand slam champions.

The 2013 Australian Open is coming up down under in Melbourne. The crazy time difference is something I’ve grown accustomed to. Living outside New York City over in Staten Island, Australia is 16 hours ahead. Basically, it’s 3:30 AM now. That’s 7:30 PM Aussie time. Following as much tennis as I do, I love the first grand slam of the year. It’s unlike the other majors with a bit more fun sprinkled in. ESPN has always done a great job covering it, highlighting the scenery down under while supplying us with the best matches. All part of what makes the Australian Open one to watch even if you can’t stay up.

I’m up because ESPN Classic decided to air a five set epic between Andre Agassi and Pete Sampras from 2000. An all-American semifinal showdown which then No.1 Agassi came back to win 6-4, 3-6, 6-7 (0), 7-6 (5), 6-1. He would go onto capture his second of four Australians. When you look back, it’s one of the greatest tennis rivalries. Head to head, Sampras had the edge going 20-14 overall, including 4-1 in slam finals with Agassi prevailing for his first Australian Open title in ’95. It was Sampras who defeated Agassi at Wimbledon (’93) and three U.S. Open finals (’90, ’95, ’02) including a memorable encounter that resulted in Pete’s then slam record 14th major. An improbable run that allowed one of the all-time greats to retire on top.

Agassi stuck around a few more years, making a great run of his own to the ’05 U.S. Open Final before falling to future grand slam record holder Roger Federer. He’d retire the following year, losing to a guy named B. Becker at his favorite tournament. Not that Becker. But Benjamin Becker. Injuries limited him to 18 matches his final season, prompting an emotional retirement.

Amazing to think all this time later, we’re still searching for an American male who can win another slam. Between Andre and Pete, they won 22. Agassi’s last major came at 29 when he beat German Rainer Schuettler for his fourth Australian. Ironically, he made history by becoming one of four men to complete the career grand slam- coming back from two sets down to defeat Russian Andrei Medvedev for the ’99 French Open. Since, Federer and Rafael Nadal have added their names to an impressive list that features the only man to win all four in one calendar year, Rod Laver. As special as Sampras was, he never won at Roland Garros with his best result a semifinal appearance in ’96. The greatest American male to play tennis did most of his damage at Wimbledon (7) and the U.S. Open (5), also winning twice in Melbourne Park. He prevented his No.1 rival from joining Bjorn Borg from sweeping the French, Wimbledon and U.S. Open in the same year- defeating Andre at the All England Club in one of his greatest performances.

Agassi and Sampras left an impossible legacy for recently retired former ’03 Open champ Andy Roddick to live up to. Roddick still had a Hall Of Fame career, losing to Federer three times at Wimbledon including a five set epic that crushed the poor American star. Roddick never could prevail over Federer, also falling in showdowns here. Unfortunately, he played in one of the best eras with Roger, Rafa and Novak Djokovic.

The new era is left to big serving John Isner, who is a one trick pony until proven otherwise. He possesses the best serve in the game and a big forehand. But he needs to become more consistent at majors to be taken seriously. He’s certainly capable of making a run on hard court or grass. It depends on how much he improves at the net and stamina-wise. There have been too many instances where he’s ran out of gas. Will the marathon win at Wimbledon against Nicolas Mahut be the highlight or will he finally break through? It’s wait and see.

While the men’s side is now Djokovic, Federer and ’12 U.S. Open champ Andy Murray, the women’s game remains Serena Williams, who looks to become the oldest woman to ever reach No.1. She’ll probably have to go through defending champ and current world No.1 Victoria Azarenka, who has enough game to push her as evidenced at Serena’s emotional three-set come from behind win at Ashe Stadium last Fall. They’re the two horses with Maria Sharapova right behind. Agnieska Radwanska is a gifted player who stays in rallies with her strong legs but doesn’t possess the power of the other three.

Caroline Wozniacki seems more interested in marrying Rory McIlroy than turning around her once promising career. Hard to believe she was once No.1 only a year ago. Another cursed player who came close to winning a major but hasn’t reached her full potential. She’s only 22. So, there’s still time. Aussie Samantha Stosur is always a threat with her big serve and powerful ground strokes helping capture her only slam here in ’11. Serena’s big sis Venus Williams has been a great ambassador for the sport whose time has passed. It would be nice to see her make one last run but it’ll probably be on her best surface in England.

The draws won’t be unveiled until Friday. Even without injured Rafa, it should be a great tournament.

It’s a new year. Well, literally speaking the calendar says so. I don’t believe in that anymore. Remember, we were supposed to not exist following the End Of The World. That was in December 2011. Or something like that. I seem to remember a lunar eclipse too that me, Justin and his friend went and saw across from Huguenot Library. Needless to say, it was pretty trippy.

Editor’s Note: Unless you take me to heart, I don’t actually believe in that crap. Every day is a blessing. We’re still here. Make the most of it.

So, it’s really 20-13. Yeah. I separated it. That’s what I’m calling it. “Twenty-thirteen.” Or in my kidding terms, “2011 plus 2.” I love how close buddy JPG got all serious after we exchanged Happy New Year on the iPhone. He was ready to hang up, which means mission accomplished.

That’s just part of who I am. So, what should we be prepared for in 2013? Outside of the apocalypse or ancient Mayans roaming the earth, let’s dig deep into my crystal glass. Shall we?!?!?!?!?!

1.Notre Dame defeats Alabama 4-2 with the clinching safety stunning ESPN. No more silly commercials. Roll this!

2.Johnny Manziel throws for six touchdowns and runs for two more against Oklahoma in Texas A&M’s 62-10 destruction. Then legally changes his name to Johnny Football. UPDATE: Manziel totaled four TDs (2 rushing) and ran for over 200 yards in A&M’s 41-13 Cotton Bowl win. I was close.

3.St. John’s defeats Providence 42-40 on D’Angelo Harrison’s three at the buzzer. He scores 38 of the Red Storm’s 42. Steve Lavin explains that’s the only offense he has. Harrison immediately declares for the NBA Draft.

4.St. John’s changes back to the Redmen, leading to mindless protests in Washington. The Redskins support St. John’s. St. John’s dons Redskin caps at a pep rally before the Skins travel to Green Bay for the NFC title game. Let’s Go Redmen and Let’s Go Skins are the battle cries.

5.RG3 beats Aaron Rodgers in a snow fight at Lambeau. The Skins make the Super Bowl. In his first year, RG3 gets his own street in the nation’s capital. Meanwhile, Capitol Hill still can’t agree on helping Hurricane Sandy victims. Don King shows up and says, “Only In America!”

6.Andrew Luck ends Ray Lewis’ career. His entourage leaves track marks on Lewis’ retired No.52 jersey. Luck beats Peyton Manning in Mile High leaving John Elway barking like a horse. Luck upsets Tom Brady and plays Robert Griffin III for the Super Bowl. Instead of football, they fight to a duel. Then Russell Wilson interrupts and says he’s the best rookie quarterback. The game ends in a tie, finally destroying Roger Goodell’s NFL.

7.Janet Jackson gets married. But her career has been extinct since the wardrobe malfunction.

8.The Knicks are 33-26 clinging to first place over the Nets. Ray Felton rescues them. Knicks go 17-6 down stretch to capture Atlantic and finish 50-32. Raptors edge out Celtics for last spot. They never allow Andrea Bargnani to play another minute.

9.The NHL lockout finally ends. Scrooge announces a 20-game season with two playoff rounds. Fans still return.

10.Only pitchers report for the Yankees in Tampa. Brian Cashman says catchers are optional. The Yanks announce the plan to phase out the catcher, prompting Michael Kay to throw a fit on his radio show. Joe Girardi challenges Kay to a fight. Kay backs down.

11.Without a catcher, Cashman announces the signing of Kenny Lofton. “He never officially retired and can help us in the outfield.” Brett Gardner immediately demands a trade.

12.Joba Chamberlain is traded to Kansas City for Willie Wilson and future considerations. Wilson unretires and starts in center over Curtis Granderson, who is in a 1-for-100 slump with 99 K’s.

13.The Mets are playing inspired baseball. Led by Lastings Milledge and Alex Ochoa, they’re scoring runs in odd fashion Not by the home run. But by stealing bases and memorabilia. Ruben Rivera asks for a tryout.

14.Knicks defeat Nets in 6. Felton outplays former superstar Deron Williams, who immediately changes his name to DeBron. “I feel this will make me more marketable,” he says at a press conference to startled media members.

15.Alex Rodriguez still hasn’t had surgery.

16.After interviewing every candidate, the Jets still don’t have a GM. Rex Ryan holds a random press conference to discuss his tattoo.

17.The Giants re-sign Martellus Bennett.

18.On a live broadcast during the ACC Championship between Duke and North Carolina State, Dick Vitale reveals a Blue Devils Coach K t-shirt, finally confirming the obvious.

19.The Rangers defeat the Islanders 1-0 in overtime on Rick Nash’s goal off his ass. It’s his first goal as a Ranger in their 10th game. MSG immediately comes out with an MSG Profile Rick Nash.

20.The Knicks comeback from 20 to stun the Heat 104-101, extending the series to a sixth game at Madison Square Garden. Carmelo Anthony scores 21 of his 47 in the fourth quarter.

21.Led by All-American Cody Zeller, the Indiana Hoosiers advance to the Final Four. Michigan, Duke and Butler are the other three who make it. Indiana defeats Michigan 64-61 and Butler upsets Duke 73-70 to set up a rematch from the regular season. This time, the Hoosiers prevail and cut down the nets. Bob Knight steals a piece of the net for his memorabilia collection and later appears on QVC.

22.Alex Rodriguez remains in limbo wondering when the Yankees will give the okay for surgery.

23.The Jets finally settle on a new GM. It’s diehard Jet fan Ira from Staten Island. He thanks everyone for their support but says there’s a lot of work to do.

24.Tim Tebow signs with Jacksonville where he’ll be used as an option QB. Maurice Jones-Drew Tebows at the press conference.

25.Giants re-sign Stevie Brown and release Corey Webster.

26.The Knicks take Game Six over Miami 91-85, holding LeBron James to 25 on 7-of-22 shooting with five turnovers. Mike Woodson credits AMar’e Stoudemire’s defensive improvement for limiting Chris Bosh in the series.

27.NBA MVP Chris Paul leads the Clippers to a six-game upset of the Thunder. It’s the Clippers’ first NBA Finals. Coincidentally, Blake Griffin has been quiet while Matt Barnes, Willie Green and Eric Bledsoe have been key contributors.

28.New Yankee DH Lance Berkman pulls an oblique muscle during batting practice. He’s placed on the 15-day DL. The Yankees recall utility man Russ Canzler.

29.R.A. Dickey loses his first four starts including a 3-2 defeat in which Jose Reyes’ error allows the Red Sox to score two in the bottom of the ninth.

30.The A-Rod Watch continues with baseball’s highest paid player nicknamed the $30 million DL Man.

By now, you’ve probably heard/seen ESPN reporter Heather Cox get owned by winning Rose Bowl coach David Shaw. All Shaw wanted to do was celebrate the Cardinals’ 20-14 win over Wisconsin. It was their first Rose Bowl since 1972. Can you blame him?

Stanford had just won one of the BCS’ most prestigious bowls, limiting the Badgers to 14 points. All 14 came in the first half where incidentally most of the scoring took place. The teams combined for 31 points with the Cardinals clinging to a 17-14 halftime lead. They led 14-0 after running back Stepfan Taylor’s three-yard touchdown run. They were up two TDs after a quarter. But the Badgers responded by outscoring the Cardinals 14-3 in the second quarter.

Following Jordan Williamson’s 47-yard field goal that put Stanford back up 10, Wisconsin scored late in the first half. Badger quarterback Curt Phillips completed a four-yard TD pass to Jordan Frederick. Kicker Jack Russell’s PAT made it 17-14 with 24 seconds left in the half. A three-point lead Stanford took to the locker room.

Nobody scored in the third quarter. Williamson added a 22-yard field goal putting Stanford up 20-14 with five minutes remaining. On their final drive, Wisconsin drove to mid-field. In position to make it interesting, Phillips was intercepted by Usua Amanam with 2:30 left, preserving Stanford’s six-point Rose Bowl victory. It marked only the second time in school history that they won 12 games. Plenty to be excited over, which might explain why Shaw was more interested in celebrating the moment with his players than doing some cheesy interview with Cox. They had a trophy presentation.

Here’s the rushed interview in which Cox gets in one question. It’s totally awkward with Shaw giving a brief reply before ditching her for the postgame celebration. She didn’t appreciate it, remarking “Are you kidding?” It definitely is a funny moment that you usually see on reporter blooper reels like these. She did get a second chance following the trophy presentation. All ended well.

For some reason, I keep coming back to 2002. I don’t know what it is other than life was different. I was working for ESPN as an NHL statistical researcher on network games. Basically, I supplied cool information packs for the broadcast talent, who used it for built in graphics, etc. It was a fun gig for the year and a half I did it. I lived in Bristol, Connecticut twice. Once in a motel in the next town over, Southington. The second time, I had my own apartment.

It was a great experience. One I’ll never forget. I really enjoyed my time spent there. Unfortunately, it didn’t go as planned and I returned home. I don’t regret it. Sometimes, that’s just how it goes. One of the things that sticks out is a hit song P.O.D. did. Right around that time, they released “Youth Of The Nation.” Back then, I really never paid attention to the words. I really liked the fast paced tempo. It was catchy. Especially the epic chorus. I always thought it was pretty kick ass.

You can never fully understand why you hear songs in your head. Music is everything. It’s our escape. Given what’s been in the news, it is a sad time. One with a simple question. Why? When did it become cool to plot killings and commit suicide? There once was a late 80′s movie called Heathers that starred Christian Slater, Winona Ryder and Shannen Doherty in her pre-90210 days. The premise was for Slater’s character to carry out his plans with popular kids from their high school turning up dead. Teen suicide. That was the theme. None of what’s happening now is part of a Hollywood script. It’s tragic. Innocent lives are being taken for no reason, caused by cowards.

When POD came out with “Youth Of The Nation,” they were talking about the Columbine shootings. I remember being at Brian’s apartment in Sayreville, New Jersey when it happened. It was scary. Fast forward 13 years later and it’s a war zone. You never know when someone’s going to snap. Yet firearms are readily available. Since the Sandy Hook tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut, the purchase of guns has increased with people loading up before something’s done. It is total chaos. We can only pray it changes real fast.

Here is POD’s “Youth Of The Nation,” with a powerful message. Listen to every word. It’s haunting.

POD: “Youth Of The Nation

Last day of the rest of my life
I wish I would’ve known
Cause I didn’t kiss my mama goodbye

I didn’t tell her that I loved her and how much I care
Or thank my pops for all the talks
And all the wisdom he shared

Unaware, I just did what I always do
Everyday, the same routine
Before I skate off to school

But who knew that this day wasn’t like the rest
Instead of taking a test
I took two to the chest

Call me blind, but I didn’t see it coming
Everybody was running
But I couldn’t hear nothing

Except gun blasts, it happened so fast
I don’t really know this kid
Even though I sit by him in class

Maybe this kid was reaching out for love
Or maybe for a moment
He forgot who he was
Or maybe this kid just wanted to be hugged
Whatever it was
I know it’s because

[chorus:]
We are, We are, the youth of the nation

Little Suzy, she was only twelve
She was given the world
With every chance to excel

Hang with the boys and hear the stories they tell
She might act kind of proud
But no respect for herself

She finds love in all the wrong places
The same situations
Just different faces

Changed up her pace since her daddy left her
Too bad he never told her
She deserved much better

Johnny boy always played the fool
He broke all the rules
So you would think he was cool

He was never really one of the guys
No matter how hard he tried
Often thought of suicide

It’s kind of hard when you ain’t got no friends
He put his life to an end
They might remember him then

You cross the line and there’s no turning back
Told the world how he felt
With the sound of a gat

[chorus]

Who’s to blame for the lives that tragedies claim
No matter what you say
It don’t take away the pain

That I feel inside, I’m tired of all the lies
Don’t nobody know why
It’s the blind leading the blind

I guess that’s the way the story goes
Will it ever make sense
Somebody’s got to know

There’s got to be more to life than this
There’s got to be more to everything
I thought exists

[chorus]

Few quarterbacks were as exciting as Randall Cunningham.

While I was out last night celebrating a friend’s Christmas birthday, J Beck asked who I thought was better. Mike Vick or Randall Cunningham. Without hesitation, I said Cunningham. The former All-Pro might be the most overlooked quarterback in NFL history. Taken by the Eagles in the second round (37th overall) of the ’85 Draft, the former UNLV standout had an outstanding 16-year career.

Cunningham spent the first decade in Philadelphia where he established himself as one of the league’s best quarterbacks. In the era of the pocket passer, Randall changed the way we viewed the position with his athleticism. His uncanny ability to escape pass rushers and turn nothing into remarkable plays both with legs and arm made him one of the game’s most exciting players. He drove me nuts. Being a Giant fan wasn’t fun whenever they faced the Eagles. Cunningham used to torch us. He’s best remembered for a record 91-yard punt during a regular season game in ’89 at Giants Stadium. I actually recall it being very cold and windy. The kick was unbelievable. The ball kept rolling. Of course, they lost giving me more reason to hate him.

When looking back at Cunningham, I marble at the talent he possessed. He could make plays that defied logic. Just ask the Bills’ Bruce Smith. The Hall Of Famer thought he had the elusive Eagle QB for a sure sack in the end zone only to see him duck and escape, completing a ridiculous 95-yard touchdown pass to Fred Barnett. It’s one of the greatest plays I’ve ever seen. Here was one of the greatest pass rushers coming unblocked with Cunningham in his grasp. He somehow got free scrambling to the left and in one motion delivered a bomb that a leaping Barnett caught and then ran away from the Buffalo secondary. The pass went 60 yards. Randall’s momentum carried him in the opposite direction, which is why it’s unbelievable. He threw it directly into the wind.

Considering all the ESPN 30 For 30′s I’ve seen on remarkable football talents, I’m surprised they haven’t done one on Cunningham. It wasn’t all hype. For his career, he posted an 82-52-1 record in 135 starts- finishing with 242 touchdowns (207 passing, 35 rushing) and 134 interceptions while fumbling 105 times. Unfortunately, Pro Football Reference doesn’t list how many he lost. Cunningham finished 21 yards shy of 30,000 yard through the air while accumulating 34,907 total yards. He got into 161 games first serving as a backup for Eagle great Ron Jaworski. Sometimes, he was subbed in on third-and-long situations due to his ability to keep plays alive. Eventually under Buddy Ryan in 1987, he took over as starter developing into a star. In his first full season, he went 7-5 throwing for 2,786 yards, 23 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. He also rushed for 505 yards and three scores. Cunningham would run for at least 500 yards-or-more in six seasons (’86-90, ’92). He missed nearly the entire ’91 season due to a torn ACL after being tackled by Green Bay’s Bryce Paup in Philly’s first game. He was still able to return healthy, earning Comeback Player Of The Year. He was 10-5 with 24 TDs (5 rushing), 11 picks while combining for 3,324 total yards.

Cunningham is a four-time Pro Bowl selection, making it three straight years (’88-90) with the Eagles and then once with the Vikings (’98). Despite tossing for at least 3,400 yards and totaling over 4,000 in each season with Philadelphia, his best year came on his second team with Minnesota. After retiring at 32, he returned with the Vikings in ’97 leading them to a stunning comeback wildcard upset over the Giants. I remember this because I didn’t see it. I was out on a basketball road trip with my high school McKee/Staten Island Tech. Word spread that they were up big with five minutes left. But Cunningham rallied Minnesota. The comeback included an onside recovery with the QB driving the Vikings into position for Eddie Murray’s game-winning field goal, shocking Big Blue 23-22. The assistant coach broke the news. Even in an ugly purple people eater jersey, Randall still owned us. The following season, he was brilliant leading Minnesota to a league best 15-1 record (13-1 in 14 starts). No longer a big running threat, he transitioned to a successful pocket passer, tossing for 34 touchdowns and only 10 interceptions while posting a career best 106.0 QB rating. At age 35, he passed for the second highest total of his career, finishing with 3,704 yards. Randall’s best came 10 years earlier throwing for 3,808 yards. Despite a great statistical year, he lost out to Terrell Davis for MVP. Davis rushed for over 2,000 yards. If only Cunningham had won the NFC Title Game. The Vikings were upset by the Falcons in overtime. A crushing defeat for a franchise that’s never won the big one.

An injury riddled ’99 saw him play in just seven games, losing his starting job. Eventually, Minnesota released him. Cunningham would back up Hall Of Famer Troy Aikman in ’00 and conclude his career in Baltimore (’01), narrowly missing out on a Super Bowl. I guess it wasn’t meant to be. Maybe had he made the big game, he’d be in Canton. He was never a great passer, finishing with a 56.6 completion percentage. But there was so much more to Randall, who wowed crowds with a complete arsenal that revolutionized the sport. It changed the way quarterbacks were viewed. Scrambling QBs such as Vick, Donovan McNabb and Steve McNair were influenced by him. Of course, it didn’t help that Cunningham played at the same time as Steve Young, who replaced Joe Montana leading the 49ers to a Super Bowl championship. But the remarkable two-time league and Super Bowl MVP wasn’t the runner that Randall was. Without question, Young was a better quarterback who made the Hall Of Fame in ’06. Would Cunningham be in had he won a Super Bowl? We’ll never know.

RANDALL’S BEST

NFL record 91-yard punt vs NYG

Escapes Bruce Smith for 95-yard TD pass

Fake Kneel

Escapes for First Down

Leads Vikings To NFC Wildcard Comeback vs Giants in 1997

Randall Cunningham Tribute