One of the Best Records in Baseball!

When I was reviewing the MLB Central Division Podcast I did with Dotson earlier today, I was struck by the accuracy of our predictions. Hold on now... I can hear you crying, IT IS ONLY THE END OF MAY!!! You cannot be serious posting this article!!!

Yes, I am serious. I am a serious Pirates fan who, right now cannot wait to get home to watch my beloved team battle. Over the past three nights, we have seen dramatic pitching duels with the likes of Jeff Locke, Genmar Gomez and AJ Burnette at the mound. Stellar saves by Melancon and Grilli are becoming the norm. Yes, the Pirates are on a roll again! Yes, Baseball is again fun in Pittsburgh, and Yes, I believe that we will actually make it through August and make a run for the post season!

However, actions speak louder than words... This team still has a lot to prove. But... it is so much fun seeing the Pirates take two of three from the Brewers. Who would have thunk that the Pirates would be playing the Detroit Tigers this close. Over the past four games, unsung heros are the norm for the Pirates as they put on a pitching exposition. Jordy Mercer's suicide squeeze was a thing of beauty the other night as the Pirates have learned how to hit, and how to bunt properly. Kudos to Clint Hurdle and pitching coach Searage and batting coach Jay Bell.

The next big test for the Pirates will be the Reds who share a similar record. Let's hope the Bucco's have enough moxy to raise the jolly roger!

Dot and Dellav LIVE

Dot and Dellav LIVE at 7:30 from the Crane Room!

Top Moments in Indy 500 History

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

It’s race day! You know that the 97th Running of the Indianapolis 500 will have many great moments. It is after all the Greatest Spectacle in Racing. What great moments are in store for us today? We’ll just have to wait and see! While we wait, we look back on 500 history and give to you the best of the best: The Field of 33 Greatest Indy 500 Moments

 

Sounds of the Indianapolis 500

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing. 

 

We are less than 24 hours away from crowning the winner of the 97th Running of the Indianapolis 500! As an extra bonus, we bring to you the Field of 33 Sounds of the 500! All of these sounds are regulars at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Hope you enjoy!

 

Field of 33 - Reasons You Missed the Indy 500

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

Now that Memorial Day weekend has begun, let the partying and the fun begin! Don’t forget that the biggest and most fun day is Sunday, race day. So don’t go too crazy tonight and miss the race tomorrow as a result! Be careful not to end up missing the race because of one of the following reasons: Your Field of 33 Reasons Why You Missed the Indy 500.

Month of May - Things to Take with You to the Indy 500

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

You’re about to attend your first ever Indy 500! Hope you enjoy and love every minute of it! Pretty much every rookie attending the race for the first time will ask around for advice on what to take to the 500. Well my friends, look no further. Here is the Field of 33 Top Things to Take to the Indy 500!

(And in fact, due to a controversy in rules, it has been determined that a Field of 33 is not enough! So, as in the 1979 and 1997 races, we will expand the field to 35 starters! Enjoy!)

Indy 500 Bingo - Things You See on the Trek to the Track

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

It is race day and you’re about to begin the famous “Trek to the Track” at your first Indianapolis 500. Let me just forewarn you: you will see some CRAZY things on that walk to the Speedway. However, it can be quite fun! It’s like “Indy 500 Bingo” as you check off what you’ll see en route to the Speedway. So fill out your Bingo cards, ladies and gentlemen, because here is the Field of 33 Things You’ll See on the Trek to the Track!

Field of 33 - Race Day Roles at the Indy 500

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

When your group attends the race, whether or not you realize it, every individual has a specific job to do or role that they acquire. Some are obvious (the ticket-holder) while others are not (the one who is prepared with extra medicine or sunscreen). My family has had tickets for 37 years now, and over the years our group of 30 have done a great job at developing these unofficial roles and doing their jobs extremely well! Trust me, you and your group will fit into these roles without much difficulty at all. Without further ado, we present to you the Field of 33 Race Day Roles for the Indianapolis 500!

 

Things to Watch for at the Indy 500

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

With so much happening before and during the race, there are a lot of things you might miss. There are also lots of things you should do your best to miss. In today’s Month of May installment, we look at the things happening on race day that we think you CAN’T miss / WON’T miss / DON’T miss / TRY TO miss. In short, the Field of 33 Things to Watch for at the Indy 500.

 

2013 Indy 500 - Field of 33

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

The field of 33 is set for the 97th Running of the Indianapolis 500 Mile Race, and an American will lead the field to the green flag for the first time since 2006! Indianapolis native Ed Carpenter won the pole position in one of the most exciting and emotional Pole Days in recent history. Can he go on to win the 500? Which of the other 32 drivers is most likely to get his/her face on the Borg-Warner Trophy? Let’s take a look at the 2013 Field of 33 and analyze their chances to win the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

Things to do in Indianapolis during the Month of May

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

The Indy 500 isn’t just about race day. The entire Month of May is full of activity on and off of the track in Indianapolis. There is so much more to do during the month than just go to the race. Enjoy our Field of 33 Things to do During the Month of May.

Coolest Indy 500 Pace Cars

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

The pace car was an innovation in motor racing that began with the Indy 500. Since the 1911 race, a car (or van or truck) has brought the field around to the green flag. The pace cars have been memorable over the years due to their style, their color, their flair, or simply just their uniqueness. So we thought, what if we had a field of JUST pace cars? Why not? Check out our Field of 33 Coolest Indy 500 Pace Cars.

Month of May - Indy 500 Innovations

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

One of the great things about open-wheel racing and IndyCar in particular is the ability of innovation. Over the years, IndyCar and the Indy 500 have come up with vast arrays of automobile innovation that have revolutionized not only the racing world, but the auto industry as a whole. Some auto technology first seen in a race car at Indianapolis now appear regularly in typical street cars across the world. Today, we look at those automobile revolutions in our Field of 33 Indy 500 Innovations.

Field of 33 Best Indy 500 Teams / Owners

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

Today, we look beyond the driver to something bigger: the team. Many big names have surrounded the Indianapolis 500, some for decades. It’s a runaway for the pole position, but the rest of the field is quite packed together in the Field of 33 Best Indy 500 Teams/Owners.

 

Field of 33 - Best Seats at the Indy 500

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

So you have made your decision to go to the Indy 500 this year. Like any sporting venue, some seats are better than others. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is no different. In fact, some of the best seats in the venue aren’t even seats, but just plain lawn areas where you can set your folding chair and umbrella. What is the best place to sit? Based on visibility, atmosphere, price, and location relative to significant happenings on race day, here is the Field of 33 Best Seats at the Indy 500. (Images courtesy of seats3d.com)

 

Field of 33 Best Non-Winners at Indianapolis 500

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

Some inherit a family curse. Some just appear to be cursed on their own. And some come close time and time again but cannot seem to find their way to Victory Lane to drink that legendary milk. It’s not difficult to fill a field of 33 unbelievably great drivers who never got to be called Indy 500 champion. So here’s the best of the rest: The Field of 33 Best Non-Winners to race in the Indianapolis 500.

Field of 33 Most Memorable Indy 500 Crashes

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

Crashes. It comes with the territory of racing the fastest cars in the world. It’s going to happen. And each time a car goes into the wall, 400,000 hearts drop at once, hoping and praying that the soul onboard is not seriously injured. In 96 years of running the Indianapolis 500, 15 drivers have been killed during the race (and another 25 during practice or qualifications for the race). 5 mechanics (plus 7 more in practice crashes) have perished during the Indy 500. Three track personnel died during the 500 and 9 spectators have died at or around the speedway since its opening in 1909. Death surrounds racing. There is no doubt about that. And to those 64 souls lost surrounding this race, we send our thoughts and prayers.

That being said, crashes are one of the most spectacular parts of any automobile race. Everybody who goes to the race or watches it on TV each year has a specific crash that will linger in their minds forever. Some of these crashes (like J.R. Hildebrand in 2011) are not deadly or even injury-causing, but are significant to the race as a whole. Others (like Scott Brayton in 1996) helped create revolutionary new safety features. And others (like Mike Conway in 2010) will give you chills every time you think about the accident. Here is the Field of 33 Most Memorable Indy 500 Crashes.

Ronde Barber, Titus Young and OL trades

Ronde Barber (CB - Tampa Bay Buccaneers) is set to retire. The 16 year veteran accumulated 47 interceptions, with 8 returned for touchdowns. Barber is a 5-time Pro-Bowler, a three-time All-Pro and a member of the 2000s All-Decade Team. He is also the only player in NFL history with 40+ interceptions alongside 20+ career sacks. The Buccaneers were not sure of Ronde Barber's status coming into this season, as evident by their acquisition of Darrelle Revis, draft pick Johnthan Banks in the second round and free agent signee Dashon Gadson in the off-season.

Titus Young (WR - Free Agent) has an interesting distinction as well this year...being arrested twice in a 15 hour span. Just after midnight Sunday night, Titus was pulled over, charged with a DUI and arrested; leaving his car impounded. Later that day, a little after 2PM, a guard noticed someone jumping a fence over the impound lot; the man turned out to be Titus Young, trying to recover his car in the lot. Young was waived on February 4th by the Lions. He was disciplined multiple times last season, the last of which, for lining up, intentionally, incorrectly during a week 14 loss to the Green Bay Packers. The St. Louis Rams claimed him off of waivers, only to release him ten days later.

A.Q. Shipley (C - Baltimore Ravens) was traded to the Ravens by the Indianapolis Colts today, for a conditional 2014 draft pick. He is expected to compete with Gino Gradkowski for the starting center job; Matt Birk retired this off-season after starting every game at center for the Baltimore Ravens for the past four seasons.

Questions, comments or suggestions?...or just pissed I didn't post anything yesterday? Send over your everything at thefantasyfootballtoolkit@gmail.com!

Why IndyCar is Better than NASCAR

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

Each May when I start getting excited about the Indy 500, I find myself talking about it to friends or co-workers or strangers on the street. When they hear that I attend each year, they say something like “What’s it like seeing a NASCAR race?” or “I’m not a NASCAR fan.” I about flip out. The Indy 500 is not NASCAR, people. It is much better than NASCAR. IndyCar as a whole is much better than stock car racing. And I can prove it to you…yes, it’s the Field of 33 Reasons Why IndyCar is Better Than NASCAR.

Month of May - Best Indy 500 Liveries

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

Each year, one car sticks out above the rest. And I’m not talking about performance, but rather about paint scheme. Especially in recent years, cars have become more extravagant and fun to look at. At the same time, the traditional paint schemes that have survived the Brickyard for decades are just as desirable. So, based on the tradition of the scheme combined with just how awesome it is to see, here is the field of 33 “Best Indy 500 Liveries” in history.  

 

Month of May - 33 Greatest Indy 500 Traditions

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

We all have great times at the 500 and can enjoy every minute of it while we’re there. But what about after we get home? How can we remember the great time we had in Speedway, Indiana? We all know photos aren’t enough – we need tangible objects. Well, today we look at the Field of 33 Must-Have Souvenirs from the Indianapolis 500.

Marcus Trufant, Darius Slay and fantasy football

Marcus Trufant (CB - (formerly)Seattle Seahawks) signed a deal today with the Jacksonville jaguars. Trufant played under Jaguars coach Gus Bradley for the last 3 seasons in Seattle and will replace Antuan Molden, who was released by the Jaguars.

Second round selection and 36th pick overall, Darius Slay (CB - Detroit Lions), underwent knee surgery for a torn meniscus Friday. Doctors believe this surgery will only sideline him for less than two weeks; which means he will miss the Lions' rookie mini-camp.

Quentin Jammer, Rob Gronkowski, Branden Albert, oh my!

Free agent Quentin Jammer (CB - Free Agent) will agree, the level of interest in him gaining a contract is significantly lower than he, and most experts, expected. With so many early round corners going in the draft, his status should have been more solid. However, with only a few teams showing interest so far, things still don't look good. Look for the Redskins to make an offer, and possibly the Cleveland Browns as well, for this aging corner.

Rob Gronkowski (TE - New England Patriots) still has not decided on whether a fourth surgery on his ailing forearm is necessary. Gronkowski has not seen any unexpected setbacks, and reports coming out of his camp are that surgery is 'very likely'. Because of this injury, and its clouded nature of repair, Gronkowski's fantasy value continues to slip slowly. Keep an eye on this solid tight end to see when his surgery is, and what the prognosis will be; even a good second half of the season is worth enough to draft him injured.

With Branden Albert's talks with the Miami Dolphins dead after their signing of Tyson Clabo, the left tackle began long-term discussions with the Kansas City Chiefs. Albert is looking for a contract at the level of six years for $53.4 million; like the extension signed by the Houston Texans' tackle Duane Brown last summer.

Questions, comments, suggestions, or something else? Send it over to thefantasyfootballtoolkit@gmail.com.

Month of May - Field of 33 Must-Have Souvenirs

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

We all have great times at the 500 and can enjoy every minute of it while we’re there. But what about after we get home? How can we remember the great time we had in Speedway, Indiana? We all know photos aren’t enough – we need tangible objects. Well, today we look at the Field of 33 Must-Have Souvenirs from the Indianapolis 500. (images courtesy of Brickyard Authentics online store...so you can go and buy whatever sounds like your type of souvenir and you can search for more keepsakes before making your trek to the track!)

Greatest 33 Indianapolis 500 Winners

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

Today we will focus on the best of the best: the greatest 33 drivers to win the Indianapolis 500. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway created a similar list of the top 33 drivers of all time. However, some members of that “Field of 33” never won a race. So here is an updated version of the best to ever make Victory Lane at Indianapolis: The “Field of 33 Greatest Race Winners”

Miami Dolphins land a right tackle, and NFL and fantasy football follow-ups

The Miami Dolphins filled their OL woes on Sunday morning, signing former Atlanta Falcons right tackle Tyson Clabo to a one-year deal. The 31-year-old was released by the Falcons this off-season to help with salary cap numbers. He was one of four tackles to try out for the Dolphins last week; others include Bryant McKinnie, Eric Winston and Winston Justice. Clabo started all 101 games he played for the Falcons, including 16 games in each of the last five seasons at right tackle.
LeGarrette Blount (RB - New England Patriots) has agreed to a $1 million pay cut in his contract. Under his new deal, he is placed fourth behind Leon Washington, Shane Vereen and Stevan Ridley on the Patriot's running back cap hit.
Daryl Washington (LB - Arizona Cardinals) has been charged with two counts of aggravated assault, against his former girlfriend, the mother of his five-month-old daughter. The ex-girlfriend, in the police report, states that following an argument inside her apartment on Wednesday, Washington allegedly choked her. Police responding to the call noted marks on her throat. The report also said there is a current custody battle going on, and Washington has not been allowed to see his daughter.
Got any questions, comments, suggestions, tips, tricks or more concerning fantasy football and the NFL? Send them over to thefantasyfootballtoolkit@gmail.com. Happy Cinco de Mayo!

Adrian Peterson on 2500, DeAngelo Williams on the block and Daryl Washington's arrest

Daryl Washington (LB - Arizona Cardinals), was arrested Friday after being accused of assaulting his ex-girlfriend, the mother of his daughter. Washington led the Cardinals in tackles with 134 (108 solo) as well as nine sacks last season. He recently signed a six-year contract extension with the team; but will miss the first four games of the 2013 NFL season due to violating the league's substance abuse policy.

Adrian Peterson (RB - Minnesota Vikings) has made some rather large claims over the course of this past week...that being 2500 yards on the ground in a single season is something he is close to, and he will likely hit this year. He would need to average 156 yards per game; Peterson found that mark and more 5 times last year. With the quarterbacks the way they are in Minnesota and no All-Pro receiver on the squad, injuries aside, he could do it.

DeAngelo Williams (RB - Carolina Panthers) is on the block. GM Dave Gettleman has publicly said, when asked about Williams and the running back situation, 'anything is possible'. By bringing in Tolbert, and drafting Kenjon Barner, who coaches have said is more of a weapon than a running back, it looks like DeAngelo Williams and his underwhelming career are over soon with the Carolina Panthers.

Have some hot tips from the NFL, or need some fantasy football advice? Send over all your questions, comments, suggestions and more to thefantasyfootballtoolkit@gmail.com....May the 4th be with you all....

McKinnie resigns, Ed Reed's surgery and Blounts blunt truth

After dipping his toe in the free agency waters that are the NFL offseason, Bryant McKinnie (OL - Baltimore Ravens) will remain a Baltimore Raven. The deal carries a maximum value of around $7million dollars, if all bonuses and clauses are met.

Ed Reed (SS - Houston Texans) of the Houston Texans went under the knife this week, undergoing hip surgery. The nine-time Pro-Bowler, left the Baltimore Ravens this offseason to sign a 3-year, $15million deal with the Texans.

LeGarrette Blounts (RB - New England Patriots) fantasy value continues to fall. While the New England Patriots needed another running back to fill Danny Woodheads' numbers, Blount is far from the same style back; and his playing time and, thus, fantasy numbers become more and more of a question. Goal-line situations and redzone scoring will be Blounts' areas this year, as Stevan Ridley should, and will, be the number one running back in New England.

Shoot me an email for questions, comments and suggestions! The Fantasy Football Toolkit

Field of 33 - Things You'll Say at Your First Indy 500

In this year’s “Month of May” series, on each day leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. Each of these topics will be ranked to create special “fields of 33” regarding the Indy 500. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

Today we will focus on the rookies. No, not the rookie drivers, but the rookie race attendees. I’ve now gone to the race 20 times in my life, so I’ve seen many 'newbie' fans walk into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on race day. Each year, I hear very similar comments from those attending the race for the first time. Here is the “Field of 33 Things You’ll Say at Your First Indy 500.”

Pigskin Blink - May 2nd 2013

Why did Geno Smith (QB - New York Jets) really fire his agents? Rumors have been swirling about a possible argument and incorrect handling which led Geno to fall into the second round; finally being scooped up by the New York Jets in the second round. Justin Blackmon (WR - Jacksonville Jaguars) has been suspended for the first four games of the upcoming 2013-2014 NFL Season because of violation to their substance abuse policy. The starting wide receiver is expected to lose almost $300,000 in salary, plus over $10 million in remaining bonus salary on his contract. And Al Harris (CB - Green Bay Packers) officially retired yesterday.

Month of May - 33 Biggest Controversies

It’s the Month of May!!!

Image courtesy of IndyStar.com

In just under four weeks, the 97th Running of the Indianapolis 500 Mile Race will take place in Speedway, Indiana. Defending race winner Dario Franchitti will attempt to tie the record for most 500 victories by securing his fourth trip to victory lane.

But there is so much more to the Indy 500 than a race. It is a tradition. It is a lifestyle. It is a legend.

It is the greatest spectacle in racing.

In the days leading up to this year’s running, hopefully ESPN and public access media will help portray the excitement and meaning of the Indianapolis 500.

But I doubt they will. So I’ll gladly take the reins, because until you have physically been there and been a part of the festivities, you cannot fully understand what Indy means – to the drivers, to the fans, to Hoosiers…to everybody.

But what is it that makes Indianapolis so awesome? Is it the traditions? The drivers? The innovations? The memorable moments? The things you do while at the race? The bricks? The milk?

The answer is all of the above.

And with that, it’s time to begin this year’s “Month of May” series leading up to race day on May 26. Each day, a different topic about the race or about Indianapolis will be discussed. For example, topics can include the greatest drivers, greatest races, greatest traditions, best things to bring to the track, best race week activity, etc. Each of these topics will then be ranked to create special “fields of 33.” I hope you enjoy, and I hope you learn something about Indianapolis and the Indy 500, the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

Pigskin Blink - May 1st 2013

The Tim Tebow experiment is over in New York, and Dwight Freeney values himself by half of what he did in February; now looking for 4 - 4.5 million dollars a year.