Hard Knocking Controversy

Mr. Rex Ryan is stirring up the pot. Jets fans should be loving it, even if his momma is not.

Yeah, yeah, preseason.... blah blah. Monday nights game will not be played like every other preseason game. A rivalry is a rivalry. No matter how much downplaying both sides do, emotion and bragging rights are going to propel this match-up. The New York Jets will host the New York Giants in the preseason game held at Meadowlands Stadium August 16th.

Jets fans have more relevancy to their debate on the who's who of the NFL in the city of lights. This season marks the first in which both teams equally share their playing field. Previously Giants Stadium, aka Giants home, aka New York's football team as is argued the Yankees are New Yorks baseball team, was demolished on June 28, 2010.

Despite Giants coach Tom Coughlin's statements regarding his lack of awareness of HBO's "Hard Knocks", the media is fueling the fire. Contract controversy, a new stadium, a new television show and a coaches foul mouth give plenty to talk about.

Everyone likes a good old fashion fight for the right to claim King. Green just may be the new fall color. New season, new stadium. Did I mention the Jets are the home team, just sayin.

They're a Gang of Em'

I continue to vocalize the belief that one individual a team does not make.

All together now, "There's no I in team." This belief, I am happy to say, is not of mine alone.

Reports today stated statistical facts crediting the idea that the Jets can still be relish in championship status minus the proclaimed superstar cornerback. Now that the negotiations are being conducted behind that glass door, experts now have the opportunity to weigh in on the issue.

Statistics don't lie. Revis led the league in 2009 with an average under 4 yards allowed per game. Three of the Jets cornerbacks made the top 20 according to ProFootball Focus. Thus although Revis over-achievements last season shot him to list topping status, his fellow teammates are clearly capable of pulling their own weight.

Hey if Lebron couldn't grab a ring for Cleveland, what makes Revis think it is his involvement that will make or break the gang. Ryan's playing this smart and the organization is making the right choice. It may not be the immediate gratification, but for the love of the Jets, the players and the fans, it is the way to keep the future bright.

No Media Allowed

Almost as a slap in the face, today, 12 days after Revis opted out of training with his teammates in Cortland, both sides have decided to handle the sensitive matter behind closed doors. These doors are made of glass. Although we are not truly sure what is being said inside, we know the problem. At this point running back through an open door were information has come and gone so profoundly, it gives the media, fans and know-it-all's plenty more to speculate. The debut of the Hard Knocks on HBO last night, the level of knowledge on this battle has skyrocketed. Closing the door know is only opening another to draw negative attention to the Jets organization and Revis himself. With previous comments backing the star cornerback up, we can only assume what those who know nothing about the game or the players will spew. Is this solving the problem? NO. NO. NO.

I refer to my post yesterday, Revis is part of a team. This is not a one man show. I don't care what market value is perceived to be at. Since when do persons establish market value. Rex Ryan's idea to bring the team together to have a "sit down" with Revis has its pros and cons. I believe this is a battle between the athlete and the organization. However, Revis's actions affect more than himself. There are consequences that need to be addressed when failing to be a part of the team you are paid to be a part of. I don't care how much money is being shelled out.

His teammates have expressed their issues with Revis's decision to exclude himself. Edwards responded to Revis's media attention has making one member of the team bigger than the rest.

Let me make myself clear. I relate to the argument that one should be rewarded for hard work and proof of excelling at the job they were hired to do. In my opinion, all professional athletes have been rewarded by simply being drafted, achieving recognition, sought for endorsement deals and negotioning salaries well above pay grades. At what point does morals and values get shoved under the rug to please an athlete who may or may not continue to be an over achiever. This cornerback did not establish the NFL or the New York Jets. Revis needs to remember that somewhere out there there is another stellar athlete waiting to sink his island.

By missing the Tuesday night deadline to secure another year of accrued service toward free agency Revis is making it clear he is willing to give up a year of play to prove a point. The point, money talks. Point two, in a year athletes will be lined up to take his place.

The Great Debate

What will come of the Gang of Green storming Meadowland Stadium this NFL season? I predict good, no great things. I have to admit franchises have made some pretty surprising moves during this off-season, welcome T.O and Ocho Cinco to the Bengals, but the boldest move to effect those dear to me, the vacancy on Revis Island. I personally want to thank Rex Ryan for any part he played in letting "Show me the money" Revis think about trying to find a new home. This may be a small part in the responsibility sports has to act as a positive role model for society as a whole. Since when is it ok to bargain for millions when billions go hungry? I realize it is not the problem of one man, one team, one business, or one billionaire. However, I believe as a athlete you have a standard to uphold.

Arguably the best cornerback in the NFL, an argument I am not against, Revis feels he should be the highest paid in the league. Actions taken on and off the field show an athletes true colors, commitment, loyalty and values regarding their god-given talent and undying persistence to maintain this ability. The almighty Revis is showing his true colors by pushing the envelope. His lack of devotion to his fellow teammates and the game in general shed light on his unwillingness to play for tangible assets. I question ones ability to survive without a salary over one million dollars. Absurd, I know. Just ask Mr. Darrelle Revis.

To the Jets: Ryan will coach you to victory, because it is not one player that makes a champion, it is a team that brings the trophy and triumph home.

To the Jets Fans: Please do not let the actions of one athlete play a role in your dedication to the rest of the teams potential to excel, entertain and prove their commitment to their community.

Come February 2011, Revis Island will have floated into an abyss, engulfed in a much bigger sea than one small mass can over power. Looking down from above, a mere spec in the larger picture. Either that or we'll see him on reality t.v.