Texans vs. Dolphins Interviews

December 30, 2009

Instructions:

1. Click the right arrow three times
2. Find the audio file titled "12/27 - Texans-Dolphins Interviews"
   

Fantasy Football Champion Announced

December 29, 2009

It's official. The champion of Miami Sport Generation's first annual fantasy football league is none other than: "El Balsero." After 16 weeks of head-to-head fantasy match-ups, the winner has now been determined. And as we promised, prizes will be given to the top three winners in the league. The prize structure is as follows:

• 1st place receives a Miami Sports Generation T-shirt, their choice of a Miami Sports Generation Beer Stein, Travel Mug or Coffee Mug, plus a Miami Sports Generation Bumper Sticker.
  
  
• 2nd place receives their choice of a Miami Sports Generation T-Shirt, Beer Stein, Travel Mug or Coffee Mug, plus a Bumper Sticker.
  
  
• 3rd place receives a Miami Sports Generation Bumper Sticker (Hey, it's better than nothing)

It took plenty of dedication for these three winners to earn their spots atop the standings. Week in and week out they did their homework, set their lineups and dominated the league. And they deserve the prizes they will be receiving.

It's as if these dudes always had the inside scoop on each week's NFL games, probably using an online sportsbook to get the upper hand on their opponents. But be assured there was no sports betting involved in this league as all prizes are provided on the house, by Miami Sports Generation.

We would like to thank all those that participated in the league and look forward to seeing you next year when football season rolls around again. Stay tuned for other upcoming events that will have open participation by readers and fans. Keep the fan faith alive.

Note: Winners please contact David Verjano at david@miamisportsgeneration.com in order to claim your prizes.

Playoff Hopes Shot, Perfection Preserved

December 28, 2009

It seems that 2009 will not be the year for the Miami Dolphins to win it all, even when Super Bowl will be played in their home town. With a deflating loss to the elusive Houston Texans, Miami finds themselves on the outside looking in with the slimmest of chances to make the postseason.

Plagued by injuries and unable to secure crucial victories throughout the year, the Dolphins look toward a final home game against the defending NFL Champion Pittsburgh Steelers to close out their season. Players will need to motivate themselves with something other than playoff hopes, looking towards pride and their roster spots as alternate drives.

And while this gloom and doom has reached the souls of many DolFans, faint sounds of champagne bottles popping in celebration are still heard.

Thanks to the New York Jets (which seems like an oxymoron), the DolFans still have something to cheer about. By defeating the 14-0 Indianapolis Colts, the Jets preserved the 1972 Miami Dolphins' perfect season. This means the place called Perfectville will stay at a conservative population of one. It will be at least one more season before any other NFL team takes a shot at joining the neighborhood.

Fate No Longer in Miami's Hands

December 23, 2009

A scoreless fourth quarter for Miami's defense could not save them from the gut-wrenching loss on Sunday in Tennessee. With another second half comeback and a successful coin toss in overtime, the Dolphins had the opportunity that any playoff hungry team could ask for: a chance to stay in the hunt.

As Davone Bess ran his route and stumbled mid-stride, Chad Henne's pass sailed past the Miami receiver and into the hands of a Tennessee defender. The Titans secured the ball in Miami territory and were immediately in field goal range. Rod Bironas took care of business, sending the Dolphins packing and giving the Titans a 7-1 record in their last 8 games.

Chad Henne recorded a career-best 349 passing yards, but was overshadowed by three deflating interceptions. Ricky Williams was held to 80 yards rushing and lost a fumble early in the game, leading to a Tennessee field goal. The Dolphins as a whole committed an uncharacteristic eight penalties for 80 yards. With the game tied at 24 entering overtime, one could argue that it was Miami's mistakes that prevented them from winning in regulation.

All "what ifs" set aside, the Dolphins now find themselves without the luxury of determining their own fate. It will take a miracle collapse by the AFC East leading New England Patriots or the AFC Wild Card contending Denver Broncos or Baltimore Ravens.

Given the fact that the Dolphins have suffered serious losses in key player positions, it has been commendable for the Fins to be in contention this late in the season. A sophomore QB with virtually no NFL experience, a back-up running back over the age of 30, two starting rookie cornerbacks and a bevy of other seemingly weak points on Miami's depth chart all held up down the stretch - enough to keep the Fins in the playoff race.

Only destiny will decide if Miami holds a spot in the playoff picture. While it may not be impossible, it will be dificult to depend on playoff-hungry teams to falter in the final two games of the season.

The Road Ahead

With the final two games at home for the Dolphins, there is a decent shot for Miami to win out against two Wild Card hopefuls in the Houston Texans and Pittsburgh Steelers. It is arguably the most difficult two-game schedule any team in the playoff hunt faces at this point. Then again, in order to deserve a playoff spot a team must defeat formidable opponents in the process.

The Texans have a flawless record against the Dolphins and will look to continue that trend at Land Shark Stadium this upcoming Sunday. With the threat of Andre Johnson facing Miami's secondary, the defense will have their hands full studying film and preparing for Houston's passing game. On the ground, Miami has decently contained opposing running backs and suppressed the ground game considerably all season long (ranked 14th in rush defense). It will be Matt Shaub's arm and Andre Johnson's hands that will worry Defensive Coordinator Paul Pasqualoni the most.

Finishing off with the defending NFL Champions will be Miami's final test of the season. With a win against Houston, it could very well be the match that decides whether Miami is in or out. Ben Roethlisberger throwing for 503 yards and 3 TDs this past week is not good news for the Fins. Then again, forcing a one-sided offensive game on the Steelers could work in the Dolphins' favor.

The road ahead is not pretty, but neither was the road behind it. It is becoming clear that this young Dolphins team has grown throughout the season and triumphed over adversities. Playoff spot or not, the Fins will duke it out until the season's over. Tony Sparano will not accept anything less.

Recommitted Heat Burn Magic

December 18, 2009

What some see as devastating, others see as fuel. For the Miami Heat, it seems clear that the embarrassing loss over the Memphis Grizzlies fueled their renewed focus to playing winning basketball. In the two games following the Memphis loss, the Heat have defeated their opponents by an average of 19 points.

On Thursday night came Miami's most impressive victory of the season yet, dethroning the defending Eastern Conference Champion Orlando Magic handily 104-86. This puts Miami at 2-for-2 this season against the Magic, one victory coming off a last-second Michael Beasley putback and the other off last night's dominant blowout.

While speculation has been put on Dwyane Wade's regressed performance, there is no doubt that his teammates have stepped up and contributed at a greater level. Beasley recorded his 8th 20+ point game on Thursday night and continues to develop into a solid forward in the Association. Miami's bench tallied 33 combined points, with 11 of those coming from Dorrell Wright. Wade could say his efficiency has room for improvement, but the primary reason behind his declining numbers is the elevated support from the rest of the cast.

While Miami easily secured their 13th win of the season, Dwight Howard still put up stellar numbers with 17 points and 14 rebounds. It was the rest of the Magic team that was held in check by Miami. The second-leading scorer for Orlando was J.J. Redick with 13 points, followed by Mickael Pietrus' 12 points.

Above that, Miami outplayed Orlando beyond the arc and in the paint. Orlando's perimeter game was suppressed as they shot 9 of 28 for a 32.1 three-point field goal percentage. In comparison, Miami made 7 of 14 for 50% from three-point land. And surprisingly enough, the Heat outscored the Magic in the paint to the tune of 36 to 28.

With two games left in their six-game home stand, the Heat will face the Portland Trailblazers and Utah Jazz before heading out to New York for a Christmas day special against the Knicks. Miami could be in the midst of a special run to build up their record and compete for a higher seed in the East. And it is all thanks to the Memphis Grizzlies for igniting an impassioned flame in this team.

Perhaps the Grizzlies front office will be receiving a Christmas card from Wade and Company next week. 'Tis the season to be thankful.

Dolphins Hold The Key

December 16, 2009

Last week we took a look at the Dolphins place in the wild card race. After their win against Jacksonville, the Miami Dolphins are now in sixth place in AFC. They are tied with Jacksonville, Baltimore and and New York at 7-6, but currently hold the tie breaker.

Miami's only concern, besides winning their last three, is Baltimore. If the Ravens and Dolphins finish with identical records, they will go to the 4th tie-breaker in the NFL's wild card tie-breaking procedures, strength of victory.

Strength of victory is calculated by adding together the amount of wins by teams that a club defeated. Currently, teams that Miami beat have a total of 40 wins. Teams that Baltimore beat have 33.

The Dolphins and Ravens both play Pittsburgh but Baltimore has the weaker remaining schedule which should be enough for the Dolphins to clinch as long as they do their part. If Miami were to lose a game they would need Baltimore to lose to Pittsburgh.

Pittsburgh is the only conference game remaining Baltimore's schedule. Miami's last three games are in-conference. The second wild card tie-breaker is win-tied-lose percentage versus conference opponents. Both teams have 4 conference loses.

Miami still has a chance to repeat as AFC East champion. If The Patriots lose any of their last three and Miami wins out the Dolphins would clinch back-to-back division titles. The scenarios play out as follows:

• If Miami wins out and New England loses to Buffalo, Miami will have a better division record and clinch.

• If Miami wins out and New England loses a game that's not to Buffalo, both teams would be 8-4 in like games but the Dolphins would have a better record, 8-4 as opposed to 7-5, against AFC teams and win the tie breaker.

Miami has a good chance, if they can beat the Texans week 16. Miami is 0-4 all-time versus Houston. All four loses have come by a total of sevens points.

For now the Dolphins will give their attention to the task at hand - beating the Titans. Vince Young has yet to practice this week and is day-to-day but Chris Johnson is the biggest threat. Don't count out Kerry Collins who was 12-2 as a starter last year in the regular season.

Heat Bounce Back, Trounce Raptors

December 16, 2009

After countless flashy dunks and dazzling alley-oops by Rudy Gay and OJ Mayo in Sunday night's loss to the Memphis Grizzlies there was a sense of deep disappointment in the Miami Heat locker room. It was clear that the team felt embarrassed by not only the loss but the way they lost - trailing by thirty points at a given point.

Tuesday night was redemption.

Miami's offense was fluid and defense disciplined. Five players scored in double digits, led by Michael Beasley's 28 points, and every player that saw the floor scored points. Fast break points, points in the paint and even offensive rebounds were a part of Miami's repertoire; all statistical categories that the Heat do not commonly excel in.

In the defensive scheme, the Heat recorded five blocked shots, 33 defensive rebounds and held Toronto to 45% field goal percentage. Coach Spoelstra was satisfied with the team's effort and expects such defensive intensity every game. Essentially, having an "off day" on the offensive end is understandable, but there is not much of an excuse for poor defensive execution.

The victory over Toronto was reminiscent of the 2006 Miami Heat team, when the team suffered a miserable mid-season loss to the Dallas Mavericks (to the tune of 76 to 112) and came back to win 16 straight games thereafter. Following that 36-point shellacking, the team questioned themselves and challenged each other to raise their intensity for the rest of the season.

It was a momentous turning point and the Heat went on to make history in the NBA Finals.

Miami has clearly transformed since then - with the organization currently in more of a transitional stage - but has continued to prove their resilience and toughness equivalent to that of the 2006 championship team.

As two-time NBA Champion Head Coach Rudy Tomjanovich once said, "Never doubt the heart of a champion." And with the remnants of NBA champions Dwyane Wade and Udonis Haslem present, the drive for ultimate victory is still relevant in Miami.

Carrying a chip on their shoulder and continuing their campaign to prove doubters wrong, Miami is setting itself up to surprise the league once again.

Locking Down the Fourth Quarter

December 16, 2009

The fourth quarter: the most crucial period in an entire football game - where games are decided, heroes are made and championships won. Conversely, it is also where hopes are crushed and morales are destroyed. For the Miami Dolphins, they had their fair share of devastating late-game collapses, allowing almost half of all points in the 4th quarter (134 total to be exact).

Now December has come and the tides have turned as the Dolphins have not allowed one single point in the fourth quarter for two consecutive games. Players and coaches knew that their fourth quarter woes would doom them had they not made a dramatic turnaround down the stretch.With the playoffs in sight, the determination and resilience of this team has overcome those troublesome times.

Going into Tennessee for their final away game of the season, the Dolphins will look to stop the Titans' run-oriented offense headed by RB Chris Johnson. If there's one thing the Dolphins have been consistent on it's stopping the run (currently ranked 13th in run defense, allowing 106.1 yards per game). It's not to say that they will completely shut down the blazing hot Johnson, who's averaging 147 rush yards ever since QB Vince Young took the helm, but expect a suppressed effort from the shifty halfback - Miami knows how to plug up those holes.

With Young's status uncertain for Sunday's game, the Dolphins will need to plan for two completely different styles of play: one of a speedy, roll out QB and another of a conventional, pocket passer. While QB Kerry Collins was unable to lead Tennessee to a single victory in his first six starts this season, he was taking the snaps last season when Tennessee went 11-0. That means his presence should not be taken lightly, despite his rough start.

Once again, the season will be on the line for the Fins as any loss will likely be a knockout blow from the playoff race. Given the fact that Miami has not won three consecutive games all season long, a victory in Tennessee would serve as a huge confidence booster - one that would make the Dolphins a force to be dealt with heading back home.

One improvement that must be made in the fourth quarter is on the offensive end for Miami. Although the defense has locked down in the final quarter, the offense has been stagnant for the most part. The Fins offense has only scored three points total in their past two fourth quarter stints. Contending teams capitalize on defensive stops, especially in the clutch. If Miami hopes to continue this winning trend they will need to make opponents pay on turnovers once the fourth quarter rolls around.

Home Sweet Doom?

Starting a six-game home stand with two double-digit losses does not constitute what most consider a "home court advantage." Ever since coming off their west coast road trip, the Miami Heat have abandoned their defensive mindset, resulting in early blowouts versus the Dallas Mavericks and Memphis Grizzlies. Perhaps after the embarrassing loss Sunday night, wherein the Grizzlies led by 30 at one point, Miami will recapture their early season focus.

A weakness that Miami showcased in their last two losses is the inability to keep up with teams that mix versatility with inside presence. The Mavericks have the combination of Dirk Nowitzki and Eric Dampier (both seven-footers) mixed in with Josh Howard and Shawn Marion. Likewise, the Grizzlies tout Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph coupled with Rudy Gay and OJ Mayo. It seems that this deadly combo of daunting height and freakish athleticism is Miami's recipe for disaster.

But there is hope for the Heat. When they close out defenders and play their trademark disruptive defense, Miami can slow the tempo and manage the game to a pace that fits their style of play. It is no fluke that the Heat have kept up with some of the league's elite, including the Orlando Magic, Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers. Had it not been for a Hail Mary heave by Kobe Bryant in L.A. the Heat would have beat two of those three aforementioned teams.

In essence, the potential is there - what's missing is the consistency and endurance required to win against high octane offensive teams.

Now, Miami takes a day of rest before facing the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday, who have had the Heat's number as of late. Fans can only hope that the deflating Grizzlies loss will spark a fire and raise Miami's level of play through the remainder of the home stand.

'Tis the season to be jolly, but that's no excuse for allowing the joyous and "Gay" celebrations by opposing teams on your home court. It's time that the Heat give their fans something to cheer about once again by bringing home the gifts of victory to the American Airlines Arena.

Fins Facts: Dolphins-Jaguars Preview

December 13, 2009

Before the Miami Dolphins can even ponder the thought of reaching the playoffs, they must go to Jacksonville and defeat the 7-5 Jaguars, who hold the final AFC Wild Card spot. A victory over the New England Patriots was crucial last week, but a triumph over the Jags could be the beginning of a magical run.

It might not have been the way Miami pictured it, but the Dolphins find themselves in control of their fate once again. This time they are likely in search of a Wild Card berth instead of an AFC East Championship, nevertheless a shot in the playoffs is something every team thrives for.

We delve into some key facts that could predict what plays out in Jacksonville on Sunday afternoon:

In Favor of Miami

• Miami is now 6-2 when scoring 21 points or more in a game and Jacksonville is currently ranked 22nd in points allowed, giving up 22.8 points a game this season.

• QB Chad Henne is coming off his best statistical game of his career after going 29 of 52, foe 335 yards and 2 TDs. Look out for the Dolphins to continue to test his arm and give him more pass attempts against the 24th ranked Jaguars pass defense.
  

• In the last four games, WR Davone Bess is averaging 12.9 yards per reception. Bess broke out for 10 receptions, 117 yards and 2 TDs versus the Patriots last week.
  

• Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew has averaged 72.3 rush yards per game in the past three games with only one touch down in that stretch. Miami is only allowing 107 rush yards per game this season.
  

• Ever since becoming the starter, RB Ricky Williams has averaged 103 rush yards per game and has scored 4 TDs.

• Last week Miami's defense recorded its first scoreless 4th quarter of the season. Prior to that game, they allowed 49% of opponents' total combined points to be scored in the final quarter.
  

• Two of Jacksonville's key players are doubtful for Sunday's game: WR Mike Sims-Walker and CB Rashean Mathis.
  

In Opposition of Miami

• The Dolphins are 2-4 on the road this season, allowing 25 points per game in their four away losses.
  

• Miami's turnover differential this season stands at -2, having forced 16 turnovers and given up 18 turnovers.

• The Dolphins will have to go another game without C Jake Grove taking snaps. It will be Grove's third game sitting out, which thins Miami's offensive line even more.
  

• Miami has not faced many mobile quarterbacks this season, but struggled with the mobility of QB Ryan Fitzpatrick in Buffalo as he ran for 50 yards and 1 rushing TD on 7 attempts. Jacksonville QB David Garrard is known for using his legs.

• Former Dolphin TE Ernest Wilford caught a TD pass last week and may look to replicate his effort against Miami. Miami has not had much luck facing former players (i.e. Wes Welker, just to name one of many).

• The Jaguars have win four of their last five games and are excelling at home with a 5-1 record, despite the record-low attendance and constant TV blackouts.
  

If Miami Wins, They're In

December 10, 2009

One Wild Card spot will belong to the AFC West, either the Denver Broncos or the San Diego Chargers - if they slip a couple games. That leaves five teams vying to clinch the final spot.

Current Wild Card front runner, Jacksonville, has the least chance of making it. They play the Dolphins and Colts at home the next two weeks, and with the Jaguars inability to sell out games, they won't have any such home field advantage. Then they travel to New England before ending the season at Cleveland. Jacksonville could very well lose their next three games and finish the season 8-8.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have lost five in a row including Thursday's embarrasing loss to Cleveland. Oakland beat them with nine seconds left in the game and Kansas City beat them in overtime three weeks ago. Their last three games are against Green Bay, Baltimore and Miami. Wins against Baltimore and Miami are possible, but the way this team is playing right now, it will be struggle each and every down.

What can you say about the Jets? After a quick 3-0 start they have lost 6 of 9, but still find themselves at .500. The Dolphins and the Jaguars hold tie breakers against them based on head-to-head match-ups and the Ravens have a better Conference record. New York has games remaining against Atlanta, Indianapolis and Cincinnati. They will need more than just winning out in order to secure a post-season berth.

That leaves the Ravens and the Dolphins. Baltimore has the easiest schedule of the five teams. They play Detriot, Chicago, Oakland and a division game against the Steelers, while Miami travels to Jacksonville and Tennessee before returning home for Houston and Pittsburgh. Miami already has the tie breaker over the Jets and with wins against Jacksonville and Pittsburgh Baltimore will be their biggest concern.

If both teams win out, their tie breaker will come to strength of victory. Miami currently holds a 29-28 edge over Baltimore. Miami's remaining schedule has a strength of victory of 23 compared to the 17 of the Ravens. Unless Baltimore's opponents make a drastic turnaround by winning 50 percent of their games and Miami's opponents flop, the Dolphins would have the tie breaker over the Ravens.

Last year Miami found themselves in the same position. Miami was in control of their destiny. It was easy - win and you're in. The Dolphins went on to win their last four games to clinch the AFC East. With four to go Miami has a chance to do it all over again.

Patriots-Dolphins: Locker Room Interviews

December 9, 2009

Instructions:

1. Click the right arrow twice
2. Find the audio file titled "12/6 - Patriots-Dolphins Interviews"
   

Patriots-Dolphins: Locker Room Quotes

December 8th, 2009

After a staunch defensive showing in the forth quarter and a late-game field goal, the Miami Dolphins emerged victorious from the heated divisional show off against the New England Patriots Sunday afternoon. With their backs pressed firmly against the wall of fate, Miami inched within one game of the AFC East and kept their slim playoff hopes alive.

A sense of accomplishment and satisfaction was palpable in the locker room. Players were animated with smiles on their faces and confidence in their words. Here were some of the quotes we took from the Dolphins locker room:

• Chad Henne on putting plays behind him and executing: "I guess that's my whole career[...] I learned in high school and through college[...] if you dwell on it you aren't gonna be as good as you want."

• Davone Bess on not giving up: "This was it, I mean, [a loss] would've been devastating. Don't think for one second that didn't go through our head. We made sure that we didn't want to make that mistake."

• Greg Camarillo on delivering as a wide receiving core: "It's great. As a receiving core, all you ask for is an opportunity to prove yourself[...] But it's not just us, you gotta credit the O-Line. They did a great job of protecting Chad. And give Chad all the credit for delivering the ball on target."

• Jason Taylor on Channing Crowder's interception: "The lord blessed him with a lot of things, but good set of hands wasn't one of them. But it worked today, it worked today[...] Pre-game I'm catching a lot of passes and he's is laughing at me[...] I said 'this is why I always make plays on the ball, because I work on it, unlike you - you always drop everything.' He ended the game with a catch and got the last laugh."

• Lousaka Polite on delivering on 3rd and short, 4th and short: "I know my teammates and my coaches count on me and they call my number because they believe in me, so it's an honor[...] All I think about is just trying to get that first down."

• Randy Starks on improving his game, taking greater responsibilities: "I'm just learning how to be a professional. The game is starting to slow down for me, I'm starting to see everything clear. And my conditioning is up, so I'm able to go harder on more plays."

• Sean Smith on stopping the Patriots in the 4th quarter: "Our forth quarter has been the worst for us[...] The big thing we had to work on is finishing[...] We knew definitely what the stakes were coming into the game and we had no choice but to come out and beat them, really."

• Yeremiah Bell on Vontae Davis and Sean Smith: "You know, those guys are gonna make plays. That's one thing I can say about those two guys, they have short memory at corner and go out and compete on every down. No matter if a [receiver] catches a long pass, those guys go back to the huddle and get ready for the next play. That's a special quality that you can't find in too many young corners."

• Yeremiah Bell on Joey Porter saying "it's a war" and wearing fatigues: "That's Joey. That's what he's gonna do - he wears them at practice. You know, Joey is a motivator for everybody, he'll get you up no matter what mood you're in, he'll get you ready to play. He's a guy we love having in this locker room and a guy that will get your motor going."

*Stay tuned for audio footage of these locker room interviews and sound bites.

Fantasy Football Playoffs Underway

December 8th, 2009

The seeds are set. After all the lineup rearrangements, free agent add-drops and trades in between, the playoff bracket has been set for the Miami Sports Generation Fantasy Football League.

Neither of the authors, Anthony nor I, made it to the fantasy post-season and as a result there will be prizes for all top three finishers in the league. The prize structure is as follows:

• 1st place winner will receive a Miami Sports Generation T-shirt, their choice of a Miami Sports Generation Beer Stein, Travel Mug or Coffee mug and a Miami Sports Generation Bumper Sticker.

• 2nd place winner will receive thier choice of a Miami Sports Generation T-Shirt, Beer Stein, Travel Mug or Coffee Mug and a Bumper Sticker.

• 3rd place winner will receive a Miami Sports Generation Bumper Sticker (Hey, it's better than nothing)

(Full details on the league can be found here.)

With that said, we want to congratulate all those that made it to the playoffs and may the best fantasy squad triumph. Fist place winner will be featured on the site with the option of having their photo uploaded along with the title of "Miami Sports Generation Fantasy Football Stud."

Heat Break Even on West Coast Trip

December 7, 2009

Had Kobe Bryant botched his buzzer-beating three-point attempt last Friday, we would be talking about a Miami Heat team that dethroned the defensing NBA Champions. Setting all ifs, ands or buts aside, the Heat came away with a respectable 2-2 record over the four game West coast stretch. While victories in Denver and Los Angeles may have been more substantial, two solid wins in Portland and Sacramento are good enough.

Standing at 11-9 the Heat place third in Southeast Division and fifth overall in the Eastern Conference. Their upcoming six-game home stretch could fuel a win streak to boost their overall record significantly. But these home games will not be a stroll through the sand on South Beach. League elites will fly into Miami to test this young team, including the Dallas Mavericks, Orlando Magic and Utah Jazz. Other worthy adverseries include the Toronto Raptors and Portland Trailblazers.

If there is ever a time to gain steam and embark on a successful run it is now, at home. Miami must turn the tides at home as they hold a 6-5 record in the American Airlines Arena and are currently o a 2-game home losing streak. Not to mention, the Mavericks have defeated the Heat 10 straight games in a row during regular season play. Last time Miami, defeated the Mavs (outside of the 2006 NBA Finals) was in March 26, 2004.

On a brighter note, Miami is coming off a season-high 30-assist game in Sacramento and is improving their ball distribution. While Dwyane Wade led with a stellar 34 points againts the Kings, Michael Beasley and Quentin Richardson recorded 20 points apiece in a great offensive effort. Couple that with a team scoring average of 106.3 in the West coast trip (higher than their 97.6 ppg season average) and you have a progressing Miami offense.

Home Stand at a Glance

• 12/11 - vs Dallas Mavericks (7:30 PM on SUN)


• 12/13 - vs Memphis Grizzlies (6:00 PM on SUN)


• 12/15 - vs Toronto Raptors (7:30 PM on SUN)


• 12/17 - vs Orlando Magic (8:00 OM on TNT)


• 12/20 - vs Portland Trailblazers (6:00 PM on SUN)


• 12/23 - vs Utah Jazz (7:30 PM on SUN)

Payback is a Nugget

There's nothing like a little redemption to prove one's resilience and tenacity. It's not so fun when the team getting redemption is the opposition. That's what happen to the Miami Heat on Thursday night as the Denver Nuggets trounced Dwyane Wade and company to the tune of 114 to 96.

The difference maker in last night's game was the commonly underestimated Chauncey Billups. Denver's starting point guard was limited in their first match-up against the Heat back in Miami, facing foul trouble early and often. Billups displayed the value he brings to the Nuggets last night with his seven assists and countless other set-up plays. If he wasn't getting the assist, he was opening up another player to make the extra pass. And that was the stamp of the night: open shots as a result of effective passing.

Carmelo Anthony got his dosage of points, logging in a total of 22, but the point distribution was well spread with six Nuggets reaching double-digits. Miami was only able to muster two double-digit scorers in Dwyane Wade (25) and Michael Beasley (17).

The fast tempo game worked against the Heat as they boast more of a mix-it-up style; sometimes they run, other times they use half court sets. Denver was ready for a track meet and they had their way with Miami blazing down the Pepsi Center hardwood. Interestingly enough, the game statistics are deceiving as Miami actually scored 11 fast break points compared to Denver's 6. But the speedy tempo was seen more in the the shot clock as the Nuggets hoisted shots early in their 24-second spans.

With no victory in sight entering the fourth quarter, Coach Erik Spoelstra, whom was coaching his 100th game as head coach, began to reach into his bench and rest his starters for the next game. The Los Angeles Lakers will be a more formidable opponent to face and the Heat will need all the energy they can harvest. Last season, the Heat and Lakers split the series 1-1, but Miami has lost the last four match-ups in Los Angeles. The last time Miami left L.A. with a victory was back in 2004 on Christmas Day, when Shaquille O'Neal made a triumphant homecoming appearance at the Staples Center. The game ended in a 104-102 overtime win.

Michael Beasley's Progression

Miami's sophomore forward has now recorded eight straight games with at least 14 points per game (ppg) and is averaging 18.8 ppg in that span. Beasley has also improved his rebounding stats as he is averaging 8.8 boards in the last eight games, with two 12-rebound showings.

The development of this talented young athlete is essential to Miami's success today and in the future. This stretch of elevated play has proven that Beasley is gaining confidence in his game and is ready to continue his progressions. Once his performances stabilize into a consistent double-double(esque) state, the Heat will be able to improve as an organization.

This may be Wade's team, but Beasley is becoming the worthy sidekick.

Zo Gives Back Once Again

December 3, 2009

Those who have been fortunate enough to enjoy the holiday season with family, friends and loved ones know the sheer happiness that comes with this special time of the year. Unfortunately, not everyone is lucky enough to experience such joy during the holidays and must settle for what life has given them.

That's where Alonzo Mourning steps in.

Once again, the former Miami Heat great has found a way to give back to South Florida's less fortunate youth. On December 7th, the Alonzo Mourning Charities will host their annual Zo's Holiday Party. More than 400 children will be invited to this event, where they will receive gifts, watch a talent show, decorate holiday cookies, partake in face painting, listen to seasonal music, dance and eat a traditional holiday dinner.

These children, ages 8 to 18, are selected by partner charity organizations and will be treated to a wonderful time by the Alonzo Mourning Charities staff. Zo's goal is to ensure that each and every child receives a gift on this special day in order to bring holiday cheer and make their holidays a memorable one. But this cannot happen without the support of the community.

Zo is looking for generous members of the community to contribute to this honorable cause and you can be a part of it all. Below are just a few ways in which you can support the holiday party:

• Donate a new, unwrapped toy and deliver or mail it to the Alonzo Mourning Charities office at 2901 Florida Avenue, Suite 806, Coconut Grove, FL 33133;

• Purchase a gift online from the Alonzo Mourning Charities wish list registry in-store or online at Toys ‘R’ Us or Target Stores.

• Submit a monetary donation via Paypal; or mail check/drop off cash to the Alonzo Mourning Charities office above.

But that's not all. Other ways to get involved include hosting a toy drive among family and friends or with a school or classroom. It is asked that all gifts are delivered/dropped-off by 6:00 p.m. on Friday, December 4, 2009 so that preparations and wrapping can be completed in time for Zo’s Holiday Party.

For more information, please contact Nile Patrick, Community Relations Coordinator, at (305) 476-0095 x111 or npatrick@amcharities.org.

Heat Start West Coast Stretch With Win

December 2, 2009

The Portland Trailblazers are no longer a forgotten franchise lost in the midst of the Western Conference. Their youth, athleticism and grittiness have pushed them to a playoff berth last season after a five-season drought. In essence, they must be taken seriously by any and every team in the league.

With all that said, the Miami Heat stepped into Portland for a late 10:00 PM (Eastern Time) match up versus the Blazers and departed the Rose Garden after midnight with a hard-earned victory. With adversity presented by the home team at various points in the game, Miami fought off Portland's offensive runs and held on to secure their 10th win of the young NBA season.

Three different Heat players recorded 20+ points (Dwyane Wade, Michael Beasley and Quentin Richardson), and four were in double digits, en route to the 107-100 finish. Wade posted his first double-double of the season with 22 points and 12 assists, while Beasley dropped a career-high 27 points.

Miami took the lead early in the game and never looked back as the Trail Blazers were unable to tie or take the lead once throughout the entire game. Despite being outrebounded 49 to 34, 21 of which were Blazer offensive rebounds, Miami was careful with their possessions and gave up only nine turnovers.

The Heat begin their west coast trip on a high note and head over to Denver for a Thursday night duel against the Nuggets, followed by a next-day trip to Los Angeles to face the defending NBA Champion Lakers. Sunday will mark the final day of the west coast journey as the Heat visit the Sacramento Kings at Arco Arena. A victory in two of those three games would give Miami a solid 12-8 record heading back to South Florida for a six-game homestand.