Random Thoughts
by John Kincade
Random Thoughts
- The Phillies facing the Cardinals in a best of 3 is so much better than the previous single elimination wild card format. I heard many asking Phillies players “what was different about this year”? “Why do you think this year you made it”? I know we all feel very good about the accomplishment but this question doesn’t need yo be asked. The answer is they earned a 3rd wildcard that didn’t exist in previous seasons. Under the old format 2022 would have ended just like the previous 4 years. Now they have to take advantage of the new gifted berth and advance to the NLDS.
- I absolutely prefer the Cardinals – Braves path to the NLCS over a Mets – Dodgers option. The Phillies won the season series vs St. Louis and have played the Braves almost even over the last 3 seasons. First things first, but facing two 100 win teams would have been too much to ask.
- The Mets “collapse” sounds strange considering they did win 100 games. They didn’t play terribly down the stretch of the season either. It is pretty funny though. The Mets fan base is among the most insufferable in sports. The little brother syndrome runs high. They are in the shadow of the Yankees in their own city, they are a joke to the Braves and still they brag as if they’ve won something…in June. Every bit of misery the Mets fan base gets is well earned.
- I had a GREAT feeling all week along about the Eagles home opener vs Minnesota. I was never concerned about how they would answer the bell despite worth all over town. The Jacksonville game also looked like a challenge but it became cosmetically close at the end after a dominant comeback. My great feeling though is not coming along with me to Arizona. Everything about the game is giving me concern. The 5 point favorite spread bothers me. The flying high 4-0 start bothers me. The Cardinals losing their first 2 home games already bothers me. I’ll hold off until Friday morning to make the call, but the desert trip looks like a Devil’s Triangle to me.
- The Eagles potentially starting 5-0 would create an amazing buzz. Cowboys Week on national TV is always a huge deal, but heading into a bye week on Sunday Night Football might blow the lid off this city.
- How early do you pack for a road trip? I have found that it’s easier to pack the older I get. I was always the classic over packer. I would be coming home with at least a days clothes extra from every trip. My disdain for checking a bag on shorter trips is the impetus for my new found packing skill. I start a few days early. I was happy to know that I’m not the only one in my traveling party to Arizona who starts early. Those who check bags in todays travel environment are a special breed. 3 plus nights or a formal event that requires dress clothes is the only way I’m checking a bag.
- Yes, I know I’m a bit odd. I watched College Football on Saturday afternoon October 1st and spent the time wrapping the Christmas presents I’ve already purchased. It was a feeling of great relief as I know I don’t have to hide them anymore. It also was a chance to create the remaining shopping lists for the girls. Tell me I’m not the only one. There have to be others out there who plan ahead like this. The reason I need it? Football season is just too busy with work obligations. Merry Christmas in October!
What are a few of your random thoughts this week? Share them at John.Kincade@bbgi.com
A full blooded Delco native from a sports crazed family, John has been obsessed with Philly sports from his days at St. Annie’s drawing team logos on his book covers! Told many times by teachers along the way “if you knew your studies as well as you know your sports” he turned that perceived weakness into a career. John has been broadcasting at the local and national levels since 1992. As a content creator for 97.5 The Fanatic he writes about Eagles, Sixers, Phillies and Flyers. You can follow @johnkincade or reach him at John.Kincade@bbgi.com
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