Random Thoughts (December 23, 2008)

Happy birthday... The latest rumor on Mark Teixeira, courtesy of SI's Jon Heyman, is that the free agent first baseman will make his decision before Christmas. With the Angels supposedly pulling out, the Yankees putting their millions into pitching, and the Orioles and Nationals not ready to compete for a World Series, I still believe the Red Sox are the favorites to land Teixeira. What a fine Christmas present that would be for Red Sox Nation... For the NFL teams that will be looking to replace their head coach, Bill Cowher will be a popular name. The former Steelers coach turned studio analyst for CBS has been mentioned as a possible candidate in Cleveland, Washington, and now with the Jets if those teams should choose to make a change. As good as a choice as Cowher would be, Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels will also be a hot candidate. If I were the owner of the Detroit Lions, I would give McDaniels and Scott Pioli blank checks to come to the Motor City and try and save the Lions... If I were either McDaniels or Pioli, I would tell the Lions to keep their money and stay in New England. Money is nice but the ability to win championships is even better and they will eventually get their shot to run the team once Belichick runs out of fingers for his championship rings... I might be wrong, but I'll go to my grave thinking that Dottie didn't drop the ball on purpose... Enjoy Leon Powe tonight...