Through a rather rocky-road of respect and retribution, there are a select few who stand up and write what's on their mind and do so in an efficient and thought-provocative manner. These few are able to garner respect and influence the mindset of their readers, which should, in all cases, be the goal of the journalist; whether it be out of coherent thought or through intense debate, these bloggers stand strong and are cognizant of the main points from either side of the spectrum.
I must admit, having spent the past eight months browsing this site, writing blogs and trying to build a reputation, my thought-process has been altered in an indescribable way -- I have these select few, among others, to thank for the phenomenal experience I've had on this website.
Though I've been involved in some of the most-invigorating and vehement debates that have occured on this site, I'd like to take this time to remind everyone I've ever agreed-with or categorically differed from -- I hold your opinions with the utmost-respect. Whether I seemed hostile or cordial, I need only remind you that my responses were only prompted by your stimulating comments and/or articles. I hold no grudges and every time I read an article, I do my best to give each writer a clean slate -- no matter our history.
Instead of just listing out my Top Ten, I've decided to devote some time to try to explain why I placed a certain blogger in my Top Ten, in hopes of directing those who have not read these blogs to the blog which interests them the most.
So, without further ado, I present my Top Ten Bloggers:
#10: FlyingPig -- Though FlyingPig probably wouldn't give me the same recognition, I have much respect for his blog. For the most part, I disagree with FlyingPig; but, this conflict only furthers the amount that I enjoy his pieces. When FlyingPig has something on his mind, he writes it down; and he amalgamates his stories in an exorbitantly professional manner. Whether it be sports or politics -- religion or team-loyalty -- FlyingPig is confident in what he believes in, and isn't the least bit shy about reporting that information.
#9: SoCalSportsFan -- When a blogger with longevity on this site thinks of FoxSports, one of the first things that comes to mind is SoCal's blog. Although the frequency of his posting has slowed, somewhat, he's still a regular around here -- leaving a plethora of comments and weighing-in on a wide-variety of topics. Many times, SoCal is able to report stories I haven't even read about on his blog; whatever the matter is, SoCal has probably written a blog regarding it.
#8: Mr. NFL -- The first thing one must notice about Mr. NFL is that he is extremely active in the blogs, as a community. No matter what the topic encompasses, one can expect Mr. NFL to leave a comment, which is just the thing that a blogging site needs -- activity. What's more, Mr. NFL devotes much time to his posts; whether it be by inventing a system of predicting the outcome of NFL Games (which, I might add, has been quite accurate), or by (somehow) coming up with 50 kickers to rank in a preseason fantasy cheat-sheet, Mr. NFL does his research. He faces the adversity of age, yet composes himself as if he had double the years; Mr. NFL is a hymn to everything that I try to accomplish -- meticulous research and well-rounded readership.
#7: Demonicume -- One of the things that I really enjoy about demonicume is that he's always around the main debates on this site, while others tend to stay out. To me, this is a sign of confidence and the willingness to state his opinion, no matter the topic. He has an open-mind and addresses all sides of a debate. Furthermore, his articles are very insightful and well-written; on a site where many bloggers post articles which measure only a few paragraphs, demon articulates his point and makes sure that there is no room for error.
#6: Fatmaw1 -- Admittedly, his most recent article has had a great influence on my respect for him; however, his blog has been consistently meritorious for a while now. He'll report on just about anything from soccer to football (no pun intended), and isn't afraid to join in on the occasional political dialectic. I look forward to reading more from fatmaw, he's one of the truly down-to-Earth writers on this site.
#5: ShooterB -- As far back as I can remember, I've always received comments from Shooter; and his writing-style is very engaging and informative. While some bloggers rely on popular-news to gather attention, Shooter writes about anything he finds to be interesting, and does an excellent job of doing so. His status as a previous NGS finalist is further proof that Shooter is one of the up-and-coming writers in America's sports-world; I certainly am awaiting the day where I pick up a national newspaper and Shooter's article is right there on the front (the day can't be far away).
#4: Dudski -- Yet another blogger from the batch of NGS finalist selected alongside me during the second competition; I honestly knew that Dudski would be among the top 16. His writing has a distinctive tone and incorporates the perfect amount of humor to amount to a splendiferous salmagundi of an exposition. Though he tends to stay-out of the more intensified debates, he is a fine example of a perpetual reader on FoxSports.
#3: The_Dan -- From his radio show competition to his eloquent writing style, The_Dan is a big fan of reader-involvement. Such is another element that every writer should strive to achieve -- an integration of the reader into the article. His long-standing and distinction as one of the regulars of this site prove to me that he is worthy of a number 3 ranking.
#2: Rivjo -- To round-off the conglomerate of NGS II finalists, is one of my favorite bloggers, Rivjo. Here's what makes Rivjo stand out from the rest though; not only is his writing poignant, but he is enmeshed in almost every prominent controversial article on this website. He'll let you know what he thinks, and his debating-skill really shines through. An excellent writer and a devoted reader, Rivjo is everything that a blogger should be.
#1: UltraMegaOK1988: For some, this might seem like a lackluster selection for my top-spot; but I assure you, this pick is without bias. Simply stated, UltraMega is one of those writers who just gets you thinking; and most of the time, he baffles me with how much logical reasoning is implemented in each-and-every article he writes. He doesn't cut off his articles, and at the same time isn't overly-verbose; what's more, he addresses both sides of the argument and takes a stand, no matter the issue. His writing is witty and epigrammatic; his diction is unbelievable -- when you're reading one of his articles, everything seems to blend together so seemlessly, you almost lose sight of the fact that you're reading in a preponderance of consideration. While he may be of the minority on many issues, he sparks the thought of many and his articles are always heavily-commented on; both for his skill of writing and train-of-thought. His consistency is a clear-mark of his ability to usurp the mind of the reader for the few minutes in which he or she is reading one of his articles -- and that alone lands him atop my list.
Hope you enjoyed. I'm currently writing an article about religion and politics, which goes into the integration of the two into the sports world which I plan to publish in the next few days. I hope that, if you have the time, you'd come back and read.
I could never do that. Probably because i'd be worried about all the #### i'd take for my picks,lol. Can't disagree with ultra at number one but i was suprised you had socal so low
Thanks for the comment, Bengals. I suppose that SoCal's lack of posts recently might have contributed to his slipping in my rankings -- but he's still in my top 10.
NS, I'm honored to make your top-ten, at number one no less.
I can't disagree with any of your other nominations, even though my ordering might be different -- it's arbitrary anyway because it's hard to quantify what everyone brings to the table.
Personally, I'd put myself a little (just a little) lower on the list because I'm only well-versed in politics and baseball, while some of the other bloggers you mentioned are pretty much omniscient in the sports they cover.
this breaks my string of being in the top 5 of my fellow blogger's top ___ lists. oh well, it had to happen sooner or later.
congrats to everyone who made it, even though northsider obviously overlooked me, therefore everyone else's selection has just a little less meaning, and should be denoted with an asterisk.
Cuziffer, you didn't make it because Enzyte showed up in your drug test. You have been banned from the next five "top blogger" lists and are being fined one "Blog of the Day."
I think UM/NS said it it best. UM said he's "only well versed in politics and baseball." NS is currently "writing an article about religion and politics."
I think I'll get back to the sports blogs now. As a whole though, you made some good choices, based on your criteria.
Northsider...first, thanks for the extremely kind words. Lots of respect for you and your work.
And for your top 10, I like your logic and reasoning. The way that you can disagree with someone and show respect at the same time is incredible.
And I can appreciate how tough it is to put this list together. Everyone brings something different to the table...which makes it quite a community.
But as the trend continues...I'd like to point out that this is yet ANOTHER contest that I've failed to win. It's like I'm the Chicago Cubs of blogging.
But seriously, thanks NS. Sincerely appreciate the recognition.
Last edited by ShooterB on October 5th at 8:41 AM.
"I think UM/NS said it it best. UM said he's "only well versed in politics and baseball." NS is currently "writing an article about religion and politics."
I'm sorry that you can't appreciate the purpose of blogs -- but, if this is truly the case, and you really are offended beyond belief by the notion that people enjoy writing about pertenant topics, that's all right with me. The quite obvious alternative: If you don't like it, don't read it.
To stop by just to bash my rankings (which are only my opinion) is childish, and I really don't appreciate it. These are all excellent bloggers, and if your disapproval of their articles has prompted this arrogant response here, so be it. But, for the sake of everyone else who can accept these rankings at face-value; please, refrain from commenting, if you're just going to mock them.
I have to say something. I know if you would have ranked me it would probably be about #36, but that's beside the point.
Everyone of your top 10 deserves at one point to be #1. I can't disagree with most of your choices, but I, like cuziffer, doesn't get how he's under the top 5.
Well, your POV is your POV. You may see it differently than I do, but we all have the sam general picture.
Did ya ever notice it seems like FOXBlogs is kinda somber, not all happy, hyper, drunky? It just seems odd, like it's all over or something. It's kinda scary...
Someone, help me think of someone to call. I'm sick of ESPN. I've already gotten 50 calls from Stuart Scott.
'He wakes up in the clock tower known as life, wondering, wondering, when it will strike midnight. He keeps trying to jam the gears, wondering how the clock is moving so fast.'
Thanks Northsider...even though we seem to clash a little on politics and religion, I respect your abilities to challenge my thought process. And I actually have to agree that Ultra is up there with the elite. I have never questioned his writing ability, as I have complimented him on occasion about it. He's very knowledgeable and definitely makes a stand....although, as is very obvious, our stands seem to be at opposite ends of the spectrum.
I'm honored to even be an after thought in your decision making process on your list, and in the company of everyone on the list. You actually should have included yourself!!! Thanks again.
thanks for the hit. its getting me all type of negative attention. i didnt think anyone here even knew i had a blog. some freak dropped by to bash my profile. who reads profiles? why does anyone care what i write in my profile? its crazy.
but thanks. i personally think Dudski should go number 1. but this is your post not mine. its kinda reassuring though, i read these guys every single day. i make sure i click on everyone's blog. i've set up an RSS feed to pull their - and yours - new articles into my mailbox. i may not agree with the order, but i like all the people on the list.
oh, Cuz's blog is severely underrated around here. the guy just writes, ya know? while the rest of us are writing portfolios, he's just blogging. i like that. if i could do it convincingly, i'd do it myself
Thanks for the mention Northsider. I want to echo what Shooter said in that I give you lots of credit for how you can "clash" with someone yet ultimately respect what they hold in their hearts.
People can appear to be polar opposites yet have a lot more in common than they recognize.
As for the list, you picked alot of great guys and I enjoy reading from every single one. When doing a list such as this some favorites of others are bound to be missed, but it's your list man. To see myself ranked so high was a pleasant surprise and a great compliment. For that I sincerely thank you.
Looking forward to reading your next post. Even when I do not get involved in the debates, rest assured I always check in. I learn a new opinion from some comment or another every time, and that's always a good thing.
I mocked no one, and everyone you list, with the obvious exception of UltraMega, will attest that I also think they are excellent bloggers. It seems you are a bit touchy on the subject. I think pretty much everyone knew you would have UM at #1. Other than that, what did I day that might be deemed the least bit offensive?
You say you are sorry I can't appreciate the purpose of blogs. Not true. Without getting into something that has been hashed, re-hashed, regurgitated and spit out more times than Paris Hilton stories, you and I have differing opinions. Up to and including what subjects should be broached in this forum. It is a Fox Sports Blog site. That is how I look at it. My remark was a lighthearted poke at the subject of yours and UM's writings. That's all. It's not like that issue hasn't been brought up before by dozens of others before me. If I offended, I apologize.
I see a differenece between controversy and talent. Utra is certainly one of the most controversial blogger we have. But for sheer talent, give me SoCal, Dudski, Half-Baked, Rivjo, Shooter, CaroynT. Demonicume is an acquired taste, but certainly extremely talented. I agree that everyone you listed is among my favorites. Good job, NS.
*I forgot Wiseguy. His bio says he's 15, wow. The kid is great.
Last edited by hogfan480618 on October 5th at 10:42 AM.
In fact, come to think of it, I've even commented on Ultra's sportsblogs that he's quite good at it. As for his and your blogs on other subjects, I don't care to get into it anymore.
Northsider ..... A great piece that's certain to create a little controversy as many have their own favorites that they felt should've been included in your final top ten. I was a little surprised that Mean Dovine hadn't merited a spot in your top ten but considering the talent from which you had to choose it's understandable.
Just read that Congress are considering reviewing the NCAA's tax exempt status. If that's the case I wonder how long it'll take them to cry foul by drawing to attention Congress' unwarranted attack upon their status. Considering the billions of dollars generated by the NCAA and the less than clear transparency when it comes to accountability with regard to their finances I feel that it's about time they investigated this establishment. They reign over college sports without accountability to anyone and rule this fiefdom with an iron rod as if the what they say is paramount. All actions taken by them tend to go unquestionned and there appears to no dissension whatsover. Total monopoly of recreational sports covering the college landscape doesn't seem to be fair by any stretch of the imagination does it ?
And, rampantfanatic, thanks for the mention. It was thoughtful bro, but unnecessary.
First, I haven't written a post in eons.
Second, I do this with an agenda in mind, and not simply for catharsis. It looks like my agenda is on track.
Still, I hardly qualify to be considered alongside these talented and dedicated folks who put it down day in and day out to keep the blogosphere alive and well.
Humbly yours...
Last edited by MeanDovine on October 5th at 4:20 PM.
I totally agree with all of them, I would add a few more but 10 is 10, I think of Ultramega in the same regard you think of flyinpig, I almost always disagree with him but I have tons of respect for his opinions and his writing. I would put Socal a bit higher and you forgot about yourself.
Thanks for the props Northsider. Like I've said to anyone that does these kinds of lists with their own time and observations, totally appreciate it. Cheers.
A list without voting is just one man's opinion. With that in mind, I am honored to make your list. Order is unimportant. Everyone on the list has received recognition just when people leave the comments. I do agree Ultra is a fine blogger with a great writing style. He and I disagree on many things, but his writing is top notch. Mean should be in any list as should you North, but I guess you can save that for someone else's list.
I find it sad that FP can't put our ideological differences aside and appreciate my skill as a writer. While I may or may not belong on a top-ten writer/blogger list here, he is only saying so because we are polar opposites on the political spectrum.
On the other hand, Socal, while he may not disagree on the same level FP and I do, can put aside our ideological differences and appreciate what I bring to the table.
I think it's sad that a man past forty years of age still acts like he belongs in a playpen.
Ultra...agreed. As a Christian, I even have a hard time with FP at times. I honestly feel that we ifluence others by the way we live, not by the way we throw our religious beliefs in someone elses face. As I have said on many occasions, I certainly respect your writing abilities.
I think Tophatal should actually write thought provoking blogs from time to time. He seems to have good insight, and always has intelligent responses to others' comments. His blogs are mostly about hot women and hot pics. Tophatal..if you're out there, you should write more often!!
Yeah, I agree with you about Tophatal. I'm not into the "hot women" blogs (perfect opportunity for LSUfan to attack my sexuality, he seemed to be obsessed with it a couple of months ago -- 12th comment down!).
Last edited by UltraMegaOK1988 on October 5th at 7:09 PM.
Sorry Ed, Northsider e-mailed me and told me I was 11th, but on the bright side you where 12th!! Harhar! Dangit, ever since I changed my avatar I have had the uncontrolable urge to pee, be right back.....
Last edited by born2playin69 on October 5th at 7:37 PM.
Mean D ....To pay you a compliment let me assure you is nothing in my estimation.
As from the time that I've entered this forum as tophatal you've done nothing but allow me as a person to grow and learn from you and the rest of the fellow bloggers in this forum.
Honestly had it not been for your enthusiasm I doubt whether I'dve learnt as much with regard to writing with emotion and expressing my thoughts clearly. Thanks Mean for every thing.........!
rampant aka tophatal
Last edited by rampantfanatic on October 5th at 9:22 PM.
fatmaw1 ....... I'll take your comments under advisement. But rest assured my posts will become more assertive and thought provoking in the future. My problem is devoting the time and effort because of work and its limitations but I'll certainly try and make an effort in the future.
rampant/tophat-I've enjoyed lots of give and take with you. In my humble opinion, I like your tophat avatar much better. Why the duality? Agreed about MeanD, BTW.
ricko ......... It stemmed from the Foxsports/MSN system going down in my locale for a number of days and then affecting my incomming e-mails which were being dumped to my junk mail automatically.
Overcame the situation however and have chosen to keep both sites active with a view to expressing my thoughts.
PREVIOUS COMMENT HAS BEEN REPLACED WITH A STATEMENT FROM FP'S PUBLICIST:
Flying Pig would like to graciously accept his 10th place trophy and thank Northsider for his kind words. He has never EVER meant to offend or segragate. FP admits that he has never fully grown up, however...when things that matter like God, family, life, family, children, God, work, family, friends, job, God, country, family, etc... He is very grown up and has always taken responsibility.
He would further like to convey that his motivation in this blog community is to talk about sports and make friends. FP is very surprised and pleased to have developed what he considers, many friends within the community. That being said, he considers no blogger to be an enemy...only someone that has a diferent opinion, culture, background, faith or understanding.
Thank you once again Northsider. FP is certain that the two of you will be locking horns sometime in the future and he does not look forward to that.
"He is very grown up and has always taken responsibility."
"He would further like to convey that his motivation in this blog community is to talk about sports and make friends."
"he considers no blogger to be an enemy"
Says the "publicist" of the man-boy who said,
"You're too f[reak]ing thick skulled and ignorant to listen to anyone. I'm done here...BuhBye [male genitalia]." (Censored for the good Christian children)
I thought it was rather commendable of you not not to mention the twenty five million reasons that you're accepting this accolade. It was befitting that you kept your speech short and to the point without denigrating any of your peers. Needless to say better luck next time. An honest admirer ! ................rampantfanatic
The Phoenix....... Party did someone say party ? What party ? Is there an open bar and adult entertainment ?
I'd also like to take this opportunity to commisserate with the Yankee fans who are no doubt crying in their beers at the moment and making all sorts of excuses for their team's loss. Wha, wha, wha, wha,...........stop your damn crying and take it on the chin like a man !
Ulta...I don't think most religious people of America would have a problem with athiests being represented in our government...when it comes to economical affairs, world affairs, and those type of issues. I think it is the influence they would have on the things we have discussed over the past month..such as prayer in public places. Athiests, if you are respresenting them as a whole, want to take away the rights of those who want to keep religion a part of their life, even outside the home.
I don't think Christians are a very good example of how economics should be ran...as religious "corporations" are some of the richest organizations in the country. And if our athletes, who are pointing to the sky after everything successful that they do...or pray for their next touchdown, are representitives of how Christians should be, it's a really sad world we live in.
Interesting read...
Even stranger top ten, since I've been on this site for a month.
I disagree.
Some on this site continually twist a sports blog subject into a political rant, then bait some others who are easily baited into blabbing and arguing a great sports blog subject.
Some blogs on this site are started as politcal and don't seem to turn into a sports blog. Why is that?
If I wanted to hear a socialst diatribe or a right winger rant, I'd log onto CNN.
you say that cuz you just got here. some of us have been blogging here since December 2005. we've mauled every subject. it doesnt matter what happens in sports, i've already commented on it in someone else's blog. we speak offline, we get to know each others' ideologies... then the spats happen. Ultra vs LSU and Flying Pig is always a good battle. Socal and i used to go back and forth for days on subjects. now us old schoolers already know where people are coming from. Ultra's gonna find a wy to insult someone's God and bait LSU into calling him a socialist. then ultra - well, lets just say that about 20 of us know each other waaay to well.
plus sports discussions are really just an overlay for personal convictions. are you a hardcore capitalist? then you side with me and TO. if youre a traditionalist - then Cuziffer is your cup of tea. he's a blue collar blogger from the 'shut up and know our role' school. man, i could go on for hours with this. this is an excellent social experiment.
I am an avid sports writer in my part of town and am active in expressing my opinion (at times, I can get carried away, yes). I am known by many as a die-hard Beatles fan and I always get people talking about my constant references to them. Not only do I find them to be the best band to ever grace the planet, thus far, but I also find them a very good source for comparison in my articles. Hope you enjoy my articles on here as I'm just getting started, and I am always open for commentary.
.
Writer and Featured Columnist, RealGM Sports: www.realgm.c om
.
Read My Articles Daily at RealGMBaseba ll.com Under "Call to the Bullpen"
.
Online Blog at www.northside r.net
