The Bull Pen

Let's face it, sometimes it's fun to disagree with someone.

I'll admit, I've done it just for the heck of it.

In this weekly blog, I'll be offering up my counter-points to people, leagues, teams, and rules.

This week:

1)  A word for those of you slamming city council on the latest arena news.  I've been hearing feedback from some listeners saying councillors lack the vision or determination to build the rink.  Let's get the facts straight.  Council approved the arena back in October of 2011.  Then in July of 2012, they voted to continue design work.  Yes, the news of the last two weeks is discouraging and potentially damaging to the project, but it has nothing to do with council not wanting to build a downtown rink.  They've already voted to do that.

2) The NFL.  And no, this isn't about the replacement refs.  Since 2010, teams have kicked off from the 35-yard line.  This means more touchbacks since the ball often goes deep into or through the endzone.  If the NFL thinks kickoffs are such an unsafe play, time to get rid of them all together.  Just give the team the ball on their own 20 after being scored on.  

3) OK, I will weigh on the NFL replacement refs after all.  But I'm finding a way to defend them.  Yes, there have been horrible and confusing calls.  You see coaches getting steamed on your TV set all day Sunday and assume it's over another bad call.  But not all that anger is justified.  Coaches are trying to push the envelope and intimidate the replacement officials.  Shame on coaches for trying to influence the game their way by putting undue pressure on the beleaguered zebras.

What do you think?  Get me on Twitter @ReidWilkins, or email me at reid.wilkins@corusent.com.