Welcome to the 500 club

          On October 10th 2002, the Chicago Blackhawks rolled into Nationwide Arena for the first game of the season. In the locker room a young rookie put on his pads and laced up his skates in anticipation of his first NHL game. This will be the first time he walks down the tunnel to the bench. The first time he high fives the fans surrounding the entrance of the tunnel. The first time he sets foot onto the ice for warm ups. This will be the first time he will look into the crowd after the National Anthem and hear them cheering for his team.This game is his chance to prove to everyone in the NHL why he was drafted above all other players in the draft that year. In the second period the young rookie did just that. At the 7:35 mark of the second he redirected the puck with a backhand and watched it sail in pass Blackhawks goalie Jocelyn Thibault. The crowd rose to their feet in jubilant fashion and deafeningly cheered for their new favorite hockey player Rick Nash.

          9 years and one month later Captain Nash made Blue Jackets history again. Yet again the Chicago Blackhawks got to be apart of the moment. In the third period Nash passed to Letestu who then scored on Crawford. Letestu's goal gave Captain Nash his 500th career point. The crowd didn't go quite as crazy for him but I teared up a little because I was proud of my Captain.

Congratulations Rick Nash!

Welcome to the 500 club! 

Are we playing the same sport? Blue Jackets fall to the Blackhawks 6-3

Blue Jackets you don't get an awesome wrap up. You just get one question asked. Are you playing the same sport as everyone in the NHL? The University of Akron hockey team has better chemistry than you and they are a club sport.  I know little girls that skate better than some of you. Arniel what's with the scratching the boys who produce? Is the new goal song "FOR THOSE ABOUT TO ROCK WE SALUTE YOU now go sit down because you are going to be scratched next game as a thank you for scoring"? Oh my dear sweet CBJ I love you but you really need to go to rehab before you end up the joke of the NHL. O wait....


3 Stars:
1) Clitsome: The man scored two goals one of which was scored on a power play something the Blackhawks fail at epically.
2) Nash: 500th career point. I live in Ohio and like Ohio sports teams therefore I have low standards.
3) Montador: Gordie Howe hat trick. An incredible feat involving scoring, assisting, and fighting. Sounds like just another night out for my family. 



Random Observations:

* The crowd is quiet during the national anthem which leads me to believe not many Chicago fans traveled for this game
*In the first period Kane started staring down fans pounding on the glass. Looks like Bolland and his trolling is rubbing off.
* Every time someone gets sent to the penalty box Nationwide Arena feels the need to play the punk version of why can't we be friends. If I was on the ice during that song I would start throwing punches until the song stopped. So annyoing.
* Just when I thought Carcillo couldn't get any uglier he takes a puck to the mouth.
* Before the game Jared Boll said he wouldn't play as physical as last season since he's returning from an injury. So obviously he gets sent to the sin bin for roughing in the first period and tries to fight John Scott in the second.
*Mackenzie either needs to learn how to skate or stop hitting the bottle before periods.
* There always seems to be some sort of eye injury when these two teams meet at Nationwide Arena.
* When your team is down 5-1 doesn't it seem like a good idea to put in a goalie? O wait this is an Ohio sports team we are talking about THEY LIVE FOR THE PAIN!
* Fox Sports Ohio is the bane of my existence for three reasons: 1) they cut away to commercials during powerplays. 2) They talk about random stuff while the refs are announcing a call. 3) With five minutes left in the game they go to a half screen so they can interview a veteran. I love the military and all they do for our country but maybe that interview should have been saved for in between periods when you were having a raging boner for Patrick Kane. 
* The arena decided to play songs written by great american songwriters, about america, or about american songwriters. I'm a music nerd so this was highly entertaining for me.

The First Time Is The One You Always Remember: Blue Jackets Clip Detroit's Red Wings

The first time is supposed to be filled with magic and beauty. It's supposed to be that one moment you'll never forget. Last night that was the case for the Blue Jackets. Their first win of the season was full of magic and beauty. It was a night they surely will never forget. A night filled with firsts.
James Wisniewski came back from an 8 game suspension for his first game with the Jackets. A game where he didn't make any known sexually inappropriate hand gestures. Which, I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that's a first.
Within the first minute of the first period RJ Umberger scored his first goal of the season. He is also the first guy from Pittsburgh who I have no problems rooting for. 
Also in the first period our handsome little first round draft pick, Ryan Johansen, scored his first career goal. Since his goal broke the tie and the Red Wings didn't score again it became his first game winning goal. That boy must be tired from all the firsts he experienced in one night.
John Moore scored his first NHL goal in the second period. How great that must of felt to prove to the Jackets that he was worth the 1st round pick of the 2009 draft.
Towards the end of the third period Derek MacKenzie scored his first goal of the season on a Red Wings empty net. The first time an empty net approach ever worked in the Blue Jackets favor.
Thanks to goalie Allen York this was the first time all season that Steve Mason was able to take a moment and breathe during a game.

And Finally we must take a moment to thank someone who also helped the Blue Jackets out with the win. To them I have written this letter.

Dear Baby Howard,
Your daddy is a solid goalie and I feared him in the days leading up to this game. You should be proud of him. Right now, I must take this moment to thank you for pushing your way out of the womb at just the right time causing your daddy to miss the game. We all know daddies never want to miss their first born. You are one of my favorite firsts of the night.
sincerely,
elaine grace


Hopefully this night of beautiful firsts will be the beginning of a beautiful season.

I SCREAM

YOU SCREAM

WE ALL SCREAM FOR MEMORABLE FIRSTS!

Dear Fox Sports Ohio

Dear Fox Sports Ohio,
Are you Red Wings fans? Do you not want people to be hyped up about the Blue Jackets? After the past few games i've watched on FSO I feel like you are having dirty nasty love affair with all our opponents. Please stop parading your lack of love for us around and keep it to the nearest trash hotel. Emphasis on the HO in hotel. On Fridays game against the Red Wings I learned more fun facts about Lidstrom than my pretty little head could hold. Yes, yes, he's a great guy, a great player, and not a douche canoe like Bertuzzi but COME ON! Where are my Nash facts? He's been on this team since 2002. He's been there through it all. Shouldn't you be drooling over him like announcers do over Toews, Crosby, and Lidstrom. I rarely ever hear fun facts about the Blue Jackets except for the fact that they are really good at losing. That my non friend is not getting me pumped up for future games.
In the game against the Stars it took you five minutes to announce that Brassard's goal was the 2000th goal in franchise history. Not just that you said it like "o no big deal". IT IS A BIG DEAL! Brassard not only scored a goal that got us back into the game but he made franchise history for something good. If I was announcing I'd be flipping out. For three reasons. 1) We scored b) Brassard is a beast and finally triangle) 2000th goal !! who would of thought a NHL team in Ohio would live to see a 2000th goal. Next time I want to know who scored the first goal in CBJ history and who it was scored on. I watch television to learn so feed me some knowledge. Don't make me do all the work I'm quite lazy sometimes.
Now next game I expect you to be oozing lovey goodness all over the screen about the Jackets. I expect screaming and happiness when they score. I expect fun facts. If not I will begin to put you on mute, make my own commentary and send it to you after every game. If you know me that means singing, giggling, and corny lame jokes that make Edzo and Foley look sober. You're move.
Love always 
One of the few NHL fans who loves the Jackets
Elaine Grace

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MISTA SAVARD

Happy 21st Birthday David Savard!

What a way to celebrate your 21st by getting to play your first season in the NHL.

It's been a pleasure watching you this season. 

2 Assists and 4 PIMs!

I hope you party like you play: HARD!

May the Jackets give you the best birthday present ever.... 

A WIN! 

I scream

You scream

We all scream HAPPY BIRTHDAY! 

We Finally Made History For Being Good At Something : Columbus 2 - Detroit 5

EXTRA EXTRA READ ALL ABOUT IT! THE BLUE JACKETS ARE GOOD AT SOMETHING! LOSING!

Oh man last night was a little rough to watch. I could just feel the Jackets life slip away. Lets get this over with. Oy.

1st Period:
Within the first 57 seconds of the game there was a scuffle in front of the Wings net. Both teams looked a mess. No one was flowing, everyone was throwing sticks around and passes were being missed. Then with 11:35 left Umberger got caught hugging a Detroit player and was sent to the box. Right as time was winding down on the power play Franzen was all by himself, something we didn't want, and scored. In an effort to get back in the game Mackenzie had a great point blank shot attempt. Note I said attempt because Howard made a beautiful save. Puck goes back into the Jackets end and then Nash breaks away. Exciting right? No! Nash outskated everyone on his line and caused an off-sides. Ugh that's such an Ohio sports scenario. With 5:59 left in the period Mackenzie gets sent to the bin for slashing. Do you want to guess what happens just as that power play winds down? Another Franzen power play goal. It's ok though because my boy Brassard scores on a rebound less than a minute later. Don't worry Detroit you can breathe easy because with 1:46 left in the period Brassard gets thrown in the box for 2 minutes on a B.S. slashing call. Period ends and I'm still semi optimistic. Jackets:1 - Red Wings: 2

2nd Period:
Who doesn't love to be thirty seconds into a period with a man down and the other team scoring? That's right the Wings scored 27 seconds into the period. There was so much crowding that Mason didn't even see Datysuk coming until it was too late. Heart wrenching I tell ya. Shortly after that Dorsett and Ericsson got into a fisticuffs. Both thrown into the box with five minute majors. At this point Mason begins to slow down. Slow to get up. Slow on the block. A minute after the wasted four on four Franzen goes to the box for hooking (2 minutes). The Jackets try to make magic happen on the power play but alas power play wasted. With 2:43 left in the period Jiri Hudler picks our fearless captain up and throws him on the ground. Both Nash and Hudler are thrown in the bin for roughing (2minutes). The Period ends with no score by the Jackets and Lidstrom sent to the box for holding.

3rd Period:
The period starts out exciting and full of positivity for the Jackets. With 18 seconds left in the power play Prospal passes to Johnson who slaps one in the goal. Just as the Jackets get it together Tyutin gets called for interference. Thrown in the box for 2 minutes and can you guess what happens next? The puck sails over the glass at the hands of Johnson. This causes a 5 on 3 and now my attitude has entered the land of half empty. As Tyutin steps on the ice Lidstrom sees an opening and fires it in the hole. With  8 minutes left Nash is crosschecked by Franzen. In typical Jackets fashion the power play is wasted. With about 2 minutes left in the game Jackets pull the goalie. Clitsome causes a turnover which leads to Filppula scoring on an empty net. Wings up 5 to 2. With a minute left Russell lays one of the most beautiful hip checks on Bertuzzi. Of course Bertuzzi is a little bitch about it, chases him down, and tries to fight him. They both get 2 minute minors. Game ends with me wondering why I put myself through this three times a week.


3 Stars:

• Brassard : First to score for the Jackets gets my love. All game he did his best to rally the troops. He handled most of the cheap shots and bad calls with grace. More than I can say for the people providing those cheap shots.
• Johnson: The second scorer of the night gets my love too. He just seemed to be in the right place at the right time all game. I guess it got on the nerves of the refs because they called him for a B.S. penalty later.
• Franzen: The Red Wings have found themselves a ninja on ice skates. He knows how to break free so he can collect himself right before the kill. If he wasn't a Red Wing I would profess my love to him. 

Random Observations:

• Do you think the beer vendors have really good life insurance? They wear these bright yellow shirts that just scream "HIT ME WITH A PUCK!! HIT ME!!"
• I like the Jackets leaving Franzen alone with the puck as much as I like my little cousins accepting candy from a stranger. 
• Of all the songs in the world Detroit has the same goal song as the Jackets?! Its time for the Jackets to get a new song because I refuse to share a goal song with the ugliest team in the NHL. Plus, we don't even hear the song all that much so it wouldn't be missed right?
• Franzen is a Ninja
• Lidstrom is old but faster than most of the Blue Jackets. I shake my head in shame. 
• The Jackets fill up more seats in their venue than the Red Wings. 
• Nash needs a good massage or get laid. He's so tense. I know a lot falls on a captains shoulder but breathe man. You'll make mistakes if you don't. 
• Fox Sports Ohio spent most of their time fawning over Detroit. I'm sorry I thought I was watching Fox Sports Ohio NOT Fox Sports Michigan. 
• During the third period they had to stop the game because fans were throwing coins on the ice. Either Obama was in the building or Detroit is a rich town now. 
• Do Detroit fans realize that the song "Don't Stop Believing" is about getting out of that rodent infested smelly city? 
• Bertuzzi will never out grow being a scum bag succubus. 

At this point we might as well just lose all our games from here on out so we can make history. 

Tonight We Make History: Columbus vs Detroit Preview 10-21-2011

Puck Drop: 730pm

TV/Radio: Fox Sports Ohio/ 97.1 and Bluejackets.com

Tonight, no matter the outcome, we make history. The question is will it be laughable history or honorable history. Will the Jackets ruin the Red Wings win streak? Will the Jackets continue their lose streak and enter the franchise hall of fame for worst start to a season? 

Tonight the Red Wings take the ice at home after six games off and a week long of running around thanking the town. There is no doubt they are well rested and itching to play. The question is will the time off from competition make them hungry for a win? Or will they take tonight lightly because the Jackets have a win less season? With the Red Wings defense being spot on this season I fear for yet another loss for the Jackets. Especially since the Red Wings play the same regardless of who is on or off the ice. Also, you can't forget the fact Swede Johan Franzen is on fire. 2 goals, 2 assists, and 4 points the Jackets need to watch him. Anytime Franzen has an opening it's going to be bad news. He will seize the opportunity and fire one into the hole faster than Jackets fans can find the nearest bridge. The only downside for the Red Wings is Todd Bertuzzi. A player known for cheap shots that helps rally their opponent to a win.

Tonight the Jackets take the ice beat down yet hopeful. Tonight they look to turn it around. Can they do it? I believe they can but then again I'm biased. I grew up right outside of Chicago and my whole family is Ohio State lovers. Therefore, I loathe everything Michigan. False, I like Ford pick up trucks, Motown music, the sand dunes and the fact I can get to Canada. The real point here is I dislike the dirty stinky armpit of the United States also known as DETROIT. I don't like Bertuzzi as a player. He scares me. I'm afraid he's going to take out one of my babies tonight. So tonight I look forward to seeing the Umberger, Brassard and Nash line. Towards the end of the last game they started to flow better. They started to connect. Tonight I believe they will finally come together and light it up. Out of all of the lines Arniel has put together the first line of Umberger, Brassard, and Nash is my favorite. Hopefully the excitement and dedication that line brings to the ice will trickle down to the rest of the team. Even though Russell is -1 look for him to bring some energy tonight. His goal last game set the Jackets on fire. I look for Russell or Brassard to score first tonight. 

What needs to happen:

• Nash needs to calm down. He's so amped up about having to win these next few games it's affecting his game play. He cannot whiff 2 inches away from the net tonight. 
• The Jackets need to learn the Goal Post is NOT your friend. 
• Mason needs to watch his glove side. It's been what kills him the past few games. 
• The Jackets need to score first and hold off all the Red Wings advances. 
• Franzen needs to be watched. One man needs to be on him at all times.
• And obviously the Jackets need to win. It's sad to say it already but it's DO OR DIE TIME

I scream

you scream

we all scream for some history. 

We're #1 ! We're #1! We're #1 at losing! : Columbus -2 to Dallas-3

Well guys here's the Bad News: the Jackets lost. Good News: we're the best at losing and it's feels great to be the best at something right? RIGHT?! RIGHT! Let's just get this sadness over with.

First Period:

Fourty seconds in the Jackets were almost scored on and were called for off sides. Just the way anyone dreams of starting a game. The next four shifts consisted of four different lines. Then five minutes in the Jackets got a glimpse of hope. Johansen  fired a clean shot into the goal. Happiness and cheers all around until the refs disallowed it because Dorsett was in the crease. With 11:05 left in the period Nash was set up for a great shorter and just when we all got excited he whiffed. Yes, he whiffed right there in front of the net. During the next shift, in comedic Jackets fashion, not only did a Stars high stick Mason so did Martinek. Good thing the high stick went without notice or else that would be the most embarassing penalty in the league. With 8 minutes to go Ott take a trip to the sin bin for tripping and shocker a wasted power play. A little over 3 minutes left in the period and both Dowell and Bass were handed five minute majors for getting in a knock down wrestling match. Period ended with no goals and the Jackets out shooting the Stars 12-4.

Second Period:
The period started off slow with a bunch of missed connections from both teams. Until about four and half minutes in when Ott wins the face off and scores on Mason. The Jackets first line did a great job on coverage and Mason just missed it on the glove side. First time I have ever seen Mason falter so bad. About six minutes in Johansen gets pushed into Lehtonen and was sent to the sin bin (2 minutes) for interference. Yet again another dumb call the refs made. Then Robidas high sticks Paulson and gets sent to the sin bin (2 minutes) nullifying the power play. In a moment of craziness Dallas puts too many men on the ice. Morrow takes the penalty and gets two minutes in the box causing a 4 on 3 which after twenty seconds turned into a 5on 3. Yet again, POWER PLAY WASTED for both teams. The rest of the period plays out like this: no goals, the post got a lot of action, a few scuffles in front of the Jackets net and more wasted power plays. Period ends with the Jackets down 0-1 and out shooting the Stars 12to7.

Third Period:
Within the first two minutes of the period Jamie Benn knocks the puck out of the air, bounces it off the boards to himself, laterals, and the scores for his second goal of the season and Dallas' second of the night. They should have credited Benn with the assist for his goal because that was just one of the most beautiful utilization of the boards I have ever seen. 2 minutes after that Souray heads to the box (2minutes)  for cross checking Nash. This lead to a beautifully executed pass from Nash to Brassard for the Jackets first goal of the season. Shortly after that a shot attempt by Souray is deflected by Ryder and tipped in past Mason giving the Stars a 3-1 lead. Souray holds Nash on the next shift and is sent to the box for 2 minutes which of course leads to nothing. With 3 minutes left in the game Russell fires and scores on a lateral move. At this point the Jackets are getting fired up. With 1:28 left in the game the Jackets pull their goalie. The frenzy begins. Shot after shot after shot is fired upon Lehtonen. Denied, wide and posts. 18.5 seconds left Jackets call a time out to make one last attempt at winning this game. Umberger wins the faceoff but the Stars went hard blocking every attempt at a perfect pass or shot. Thus the game ended with Columbus falling to the Stars. This game with haunt the Jackets for awhile. There were too many near misses and almost made shots in this game.





3 Stars
Lehtonen: I was really hoping to have all three stars be Jackets but alas Lehtonen is just too beastly to not be allowed on this list. He only allowed 2 goals after being shot at 40 times.
Brassard: You have to give props to the man who first got past Lehtonen. He really stepped in for Carter last night. Also, with that goal Brassard scored the 2,000th goal in franchise history. Multiple stick taps to you buddy.
Russell: A beautiful unassisted wrister in the third to helped set the team on fire. A little too late for the fire to happen but Russell's goal definitely pumped up the whole team, something that Nash was trying to do all game.


Random Observations

• I like the Umby, Brassard and Nash line it just took them a while to get their flow on. 
• If you take a shot everytime the announcers say "Jackets, yet again, missed the mark" it makes watching more tolerable
• Does anyone really know how to pronounce Lehtonen?
• I dislike Ott immensely but he and the puck have some weird creepy love affair. They always seem to find each other. 
• The Refs of tonights game are the Stars dirty sleazy skank
• I really like the Jackets new goal song (the whip by locksley) unfortunately think it's been used by other teams.
• The way Nash constantly sacrificed his body for the team was hot. I've never been attracted to Nash in anyway until that game.
• Nash's mouth guard looks like a grill. "SMILE FOR ME DADDY"
• Fox Sports Ohio always zooms in on the Jackets play board. Apparently all the other teams are paying the cameraman. O who am I kidding no one wants to know what the Jackets next move is.
• I'd really love to see a cage match between Ott and Dorsett. Dorsett got under Otts skin and it made me about as giddy as a kid on christmas morning.
• My wrap up is a little disjointed and not flowing together.... don't worry that's just an homage to the Jackets

you gotta reach up and grab that star if you wanna shine: Dallas vs Columbus preview 10-17-2011

Puck Drop: 7pm eastern
Tv: Fox Sports Ohio

*DISCLAIMER* If you can't handle flowery happiness you should just leave right now. This preview is the stereotypical Ohio sports fan preview. That fan who at the beginning of the season is overly optimistic and eventually turn to the bottle while they cry themselves to sleep after a loss.

Well folks here we are beginning of the season, last in the league, and no wins. Couldn't get worse right? The only place to go is up, right? RIGHT! So ladies and gentleman it's time to put on your positivity pants and join me on this wonderful ride.

DALLAS:

• Lehtonen : He may be a beast of a goalie. He may not of lost a game yet. He's only allowed 6 goals in the past 4 games he's played. Guess what? the BJs scored two of the goals. For all you non math majors that's 1/3, that's 33ish%, that's the same amount of goals as "better" teams like Chicago and Phoenix scored against him this season COMBINED. No one can be perfect all the time.  :)
• Not including shoot outs, in the past eight meetings Dallas hasn't allowed the BJs to score over 2 goals. Don't get negative on me now guys. Didn't your momma ever tell you one goal is all you really need to win a game?

COLUMBUS:

• Carter: He was placed on IR on a week to week basis with a foot injury. HEY THAT'S OK! Now Brassard will be moved to the first line where he seems to flow the best. Which then shifts Prospal to the second line alone with Vermette. Two things happen here. The offensive scoring opportunities open up immensely and my dream of a Vermette/Prospal bromance begins to come into view.
• Prospal has 3 goals this season. Nash has 2 goals this season. We are only five games into the season! Combined that's a goal a game! All you really need to win a game is one goal.
• Tonight will be our night to break our losing streak. Tonight will be the night to show the NHL we shall overcome and NOT be the joke of the league. Hey guys if we lose at least we are number one at something and that something is losing. So good luck boys and show those Stars what you got. 

I scream

You scream

We all scream for an end to a losing streak.  

What the NBA lockout could do for the Blue Jackets

With the 2011-2012 lock out looming above basketball fans heads everywhere it means good things for hockey. Many Ohio State fans are falling off the bandwagon and looking for somewhere to go. Why not welcome them into the loving arms of the NHL? The Indians missed the playoffs, again. Why not welcome their fans into the loving arms of the NHL? Where are all those angry, woe is me Browns fan going to go after they "just" miss the play-offs? They usually run straight into the arms of the Cavs but wait the Cavs won't be there. Ohioans can try and not watch sports until spring training. Will they? No, because sports is every Ohioans oxygen. Unfortunately Hockey might not be where these fans run. Lets roll through the Good News and Bad News this possible full season NBA lock-out brings us.

Bad News:

• As I stated earlier, sports = oxygen. Which means people invest their lives in college sports and high school sports. With the MAC finally starting to show they are a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA basketball tournament all those jumping off the BIG 10 bandwagon will now be climbing on the MAC bandwagon. High Schools like St. Edwards, Walsh Jesuit, Moeller, Xavier, Whitmer, Cardinal Mooney and Glenville are constantly in the National spot light for wrestling, basketball and football. If any of these teams have a good year that will be enough to satisfy the sports bug for most Ohioans. 
• If people do decide to run into the arms of the NHL the North East and North West fan base is shot. In the North East Pens, Sabres,Bruins, and Canuks fans run rampant. The Avs farm team, Lake Erie Monsters, is located in Cleveland. With inexpensive games and a fun atmosphere new hockey fans will probably end up at Quicken Loans Arena instead of Nationwide Arena. In the North West you have farmers and fans of all things Detroit, Cincinnati, and Ohio State. It's the place where all the Division 6 High Schools hail. People eat, sleep and breathe high school sports here. Being without the NBA could possibly be a breeze for them. 
• The lock-out won't make the Blue Jackets magically a better team. It won't make them have the team chemistry they need to even dream of making the playoffs.

Good News

• Last year a good amount of Blue Jackets games were not shown in half of the state because they aired at the same time as the Cavs. If the whole NBA season is locked out you won't have to miss a single Blue Jackets game on Fox Sports Ohio. 
• If the Blue Jackets start to do well the news will ACTUALLY TALK ABOUT THEM. The news loves to talk about their sports teams. Usually hockey gets overshadowed by the Cavs, LeBron, and Snowstorms. An NBA lock-out will lead to zero talk about the Cavs and minimal talk about LeBron. Therefore, the Blue Jackets can now wiggle their way into the hearts of Ohioans. 
• You will NEVER go a game with out laughing. I love the BJs BUT when you have a team that has very little chemistry hilarity will ensue. I can't even tell you the amount of times someone had a breakaway and passed it to a member of the other team. What's even better are the fan reactions. They range from "o my please take my life now" to "if i wanted to see someone play like this i would have watched the Browns lose" to "HEY REF THERE HAS TO BE SOME SORT OF FOUL OR SOMETHING THERE". That last one is my favorite one. Cute little overly optimistic fans who blame everything on everyone else.
• Even though the BJs mascot, Stinger, is a bit on the creepy looking side you have nothing to fear. He won't molest you like some teams mascots will. *cough* Tommy Hawk *cough*

So boys, you know what to do. It's time to show Ohio that hockey is where it's at.

I scream 

You scream

We all scream for a possible NBA lockout

Slow Start for the BJs

Right now there is as running joke with some of my friends that I am the reason why the Blue Jackets have yet to win a game this season. They claim my lack of blogging and abandonment of this blog has been a jinx for the team. So in an effort to prove them wrong I'll be blogging yet again.

When you look at the roster you've got Nash, Vermette, Umberger, Carter, Prospal, Wisniewski, and Mason. I get all giddy and giggly when I see those names on one team. They SHOULD be lighting it up. They aren't. In fact they have yet to win a game this season. To make it even worse they lost in a shootout to the AVS. THE AVS!!


Blue Jackets get your shit together and prove my friends right that I am a jinx for not blogging.

I SCREAM

YOU SCREAM 

WE ALL SCREAM FOR A HOPEFULLY BETTER SEASON... please

Happy Birthday Antoine!!!

Happy Birthday Antoine Vermette!

Who knew God would bless us 29 years ago today with such a beautifully talented and looking man. 

I am glad the Blue Jackets have you on their team. 

Ohio needs something good and that my talented BJ is you!

Have a blast in a glass tonight. 

Rock on !

HAPPY BIRTHDAY FEDOR!

 

Happy 28th Birthday Fedor Tyutin! 

I hope you show all of Columbus how to party like a Russian. 

BRING ON THE VODKA!

With 20 assists this season you deserve it. 

To those who have departed during the Frenzy WE SALUTE YOU

Today we say goodbye to eight BJs who didn't make it through the free agency frenzy alive. Some of them I will miss and some of them I barely knew. I have written each of them a letter.

Dear Mathieu Garon,
You stepped up when Mason was out and gave a few top teams a run for their money. You didn't have the best record but you had heart. Tampa Bay is lucky to have you. If you don't play much this season take the chance to be a mentor and leader from the bench.


Dear Chris Clark,
You played more than half the games in the season yet you didn't stick in my mind. Constantly your injuries held you back. If you don't retire take this time and nurse your battle wounds.


Dear Jan Hejda,
O dear Jan when I saw Colorado signed you to a 4 year contract I was not shocked. Over the past few years you have not produced. I am not quite sure why the Avs signed you but I hope you take this second chance as an opportunity. Good Luck. Make the BJs proud.


Dear Anton Stralman,
You claim to be a defenseman but you only produced offensively. I truly wish I could say wonderful and beautiful things about you but I can not. I haven't followed your career enough to miss you. May you find your way in this crazy NHL world.


Dear Craig Rivet,
Craig, Craig, Craig, 14 games you played and 23 minutes you spent in the sin bin. Craig, Craig, Craig. When you came from the Sabres I had such high hopes for you. I was like this "Old Man" he is going to rock my world. I can feel it. Craig, Craig, Craig. O how wrong I was. It pains me to say this, since I've been following your career since you were on the canadiens, but maybe it is time to retire. Take all you have learned and become a coach. It seems as though you have the heart and passion to do so.


Dear Ethan Moreau,
What happened to you? Where did you go this season? I've loved you since your two year stint with the Blackhawks. You were an alternate captain and you had one goal and five assists. ONE GOAL AND FIVE ASSISTS?!?! I can't ice skate so I shouldn't judge but come on buddy we all know you can do better. With that being said, What is going to happen to you this off season? I hope someone picks you up. I hope a scalding hot fire has been lit under your ass because it'd be a shame to leave the league on such a low point in your career.

Dear Sami Lepisto,
I can't exactly be sad because you are now playing for one of my favorite teams. Soon you will be in the black and red. Soon you will be playing with the likes of Toews, Hossa, and Kane. Soon you will be getting interviewed by one of the best reporters in the league. I hope you have thick skin because Chicago sports fans are ruthless and undying. Here is a hint if you get scared there are two places to hide : Behind John Scott or Coach Qs mustache.  Although we know you won't hide. You are a warrior who goes into battle swinging. You are a spectacular defenseman who has barely been to parties in the sin bin. The Blackhawks are lucky to have you. I hope the fans shower you with love and fangirls.


Dear Scottie Upshall,
I went through the seven stages of grief when you signed with Florida. I was at a Buffalo Wild Wings when I saw your name flash on the screen. My chicken wings dropped in shock and I immediately denied it was you who had signed. I kept telling myself "Wow Scottie Upshall must be a popular name".  Which slowly went into pain and wondering if I was a good fan. Then I became very angry and started saying "Florida take the whole team but leave scottie alone." Quickly I became very depressed. My heart shattered into a million hockey pucks. Why Scottie Why? Did Scottie even know? I haven't actually hit the happier stages of dealing with grief. I refuse to accept this. Beam Scottie back to Columbus right now! You hear me? Granted you didn't produce like we thought but you were here only a short amount of time.  You seemed like a leader. I specifically remember the moment when the Blue Jackets were losing against the Blackhawks and your demeanor was positive. You truly believed the Blue Jackets would win the game. You and your positivity will be missed. I loved you on the Coyotes. I loved you on the Blue Jackets. I'm sure I will love you on the Panthers. Farewell my sweet scottie, farewell.

For those who have been BJs

WE SALUTE YOU.

Welcome Baby BJs

It's a little late but I would like to welcome the precious little ones to the NHL.

After giving up their first round pick in a trade for Jeff Carter the Blue Jackets watched the action fly. As the second day rolled around there were some antsy guys up for the draft. With each pick through out the day I'm sure many of these guys had thrown the towel in thinking they wouldn't go at all. Over the next six rounds the Blue Jackets drafted six guys who show fight, heart, integrity and undeniable skill. Over the next week I will give you an in depth look on our six new little jackets. Until then lets give a big BJs welcome to Boone Jenner, T.J. Tynan, Mike Reilly, Seth Ambroz, Lukas Sedlak, and Anton Forsberg.

i scream

you scream

we all scream for new BJs !

Welcome to Ohio Carter!

After a full nights rest and a margarita I am excited to have Jeff Carter on our team. Let me be frank with you for a moment. Last night I was pulling my hair out and very angry that Voracek was traded. Voracek, I love you man so please if you are somehow reading this do not take offense. Moving Carter to Columbus is the best move they have made since signing Nash. Thinking about the Nash-Carter dynamic makes my heart pitter patter. This past season stats for both of these guys is so similar you would think they were the Sedin twins except less creepy and not related. Let me break it down for you. 

GOALS

Nash: 32

Carter: 36

ASSISTS

Nash: 34

Carter: 30

PARTIES IN THE SIN BIN (aka PIMs)

Nash: 34

Carter: 39

POWER PLAY GOALS

Nash: 6

Carter: 8

GAME WINNING GOALS

Nash: 7

Carter: 7

SHOTS

Nash: 305

Carter: 335

They are clutch players who attack the goal constantly. With Carter's impeccable defensive skills the Blue Jackets franchise will no longer rest solely on the shoulders of Nash. This season will be action packed and I forsee a shot at the Playoffs. Maybe we will even get a new bromance out of this trade. Who doesn't love a good bromance?

I scream

You scream

We all scream FOR BJs!!!

For Those Who Have Been BJs, We Salute You

Today we bid adieu to our resident goldie locks Mr. Jakub Voracek.
We Salute the sounds of 39 cannons being shot off during your career with the BJs.
We salute the miniscule 96 minutes you've spent partying in the sin bin.
We salute the way you look shocked after you score a goal.
Most importantly we salute the fact that after a game your hair still looks better than most perfectly coiffed women. How do you do it?
You will be dearly missed.
It's not goodbye Jakub. It's see you later.

FOR THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN BJs

WE SALUTE YOU

THE SCHEDULE OF BJs IS FINALLY POSTED!!!!!

Since the posts I saved refuse to post I'm just going to pretend I took a little summer vacation. Teachers get one, why can't I?

 Hello everyone I am back and what a great day to be back.

Today the NHL Schedule was released. I have been obsessing about this day since Canucks fans burnt their city down. The schedule shows us that hockey season is just around the corner. It gives me something to mark off on my calender everyday. It gives me something to live for this summer. 106 more days until the regular season begins.106 more days until cold arenas and beer. 106 more days until parties in the sin bin. 106 more days until I stop hanging out with my friends because they don't understand the joy of hockey.

Lets quickly go over the "must see" games of the first three months.

• The home opener on October 7th vs the Preds. It looks as though we have a chance to start the year off with a bang. Literally and figuratively. My cannon jokes are lame but I will get there eventually. 
• On october 10th we should all watch the game from home just in case Canucks fans get a little rowdy and burn columbus down. If this happens please save BD MONGOLIANS. All you can eat stir fry deserves to be saved.
• When the Winnipeg *insert nickname here* rolls into town on November 12th I expect to see a full house. I will be severely disappointed if I roll up to Nationwide Arena and only see fans from Canada. Fans of Columbus this is a big deal. Seeing this game will help you decide the "likeability" factor of this new franchise. Plus, who doesn't want to see Dustin Byfuglien play on a team located in what could be the whitest city in the world. 
• Finally, December 18th, brings in our rivals. The St. Louis Blows Blues. Lets bring on the parties in the sin bin. I'm talking to you Mr. Boll and Mr. Dorsett. Bring on the pain and party. Just don't "Burrow" someone in the neck or "Bertuzzi" a player. 

 

I scream

You scream

We all scream for an exciting year of BJ action!

oopsies

so i think i figured out what i did wrong with all of my posts that were not being posted. I am dumb and put post on 2012 not in 2011 . hopefully in the next few days ALL of my posts will be up here. Yes that is a lot of posts.

haha enjoy

SUMMER FULL OF BJs

HAVE NO FEAR!

You're summer shall be filled with BJs! 

The Blue Jackets season comes to an end tonight but that doesn't mean the fun has to stop. From here on out I promise to update this site regularly with everything and anything Blue Jackets related. Here are some of the things I have planned for this summer. 

• the first annual BJs awards: this year they will be decided by me but next year i'm depending on fans to help me. 
• New Fan of Hockey? : New fans show up in big numbers in two places, stanley cup champions and teams less than 15 years old. I will provide a history of hockey, a history of the Blue Jackets, and a few "Hockey for Newbs" posts. 
• What they need to work on to make the BJs spectacular and who stepped up this season.
• Summer Commentary : look out boys I will be commentating on just about anything I hear about you guys this summer. If you go to a bar wearing a glitter fanny pack, i'll know and then the whole world will know. 
• Much much more :) Don't hesitate to let me know if their is something you would like me to post.

<3 I scream, you scream, we all scream for a summer filled with BJs <3

and i'm going to make that happen for you

To Catch A Predator : Columbus @ Nashville Preview 04-08-2011

GAME TIME :8 pm

TV: Fox Sports Ohio (FS-O)

Radio: 97.1 the fan
Opponents: PredLine 

I really hope the Blue Jackets know that they are the game changers right now.

As of right now Nashville is 5th in the West. Since Dallas spanked the Avs last night the Preds need 1 point, 1 POINT!!, to clinch a play off spot. If they lose they are depending on a lot of variables from Dallas, Chicago, Anaheim, Pheonix and themselves on where they will place or if they will place.

Basically, the Preds are pulling out the big guns.

Go Big or Go Home style.

UNLESS they view the Blue Jackets as a joke and a non threat. 

In which case they will have a hard battle to fight. 

As for Columbus, their fearless leader, Rick Nash is still out with a lower back injury. The Jackets have yet to win a game with out him. 

So look for Jared "Rattle Snake" Boll out on the ice often to shake thing up and cause the kind of ruckus that will make the Preds lose their heads a little. 

This game is going to get feisty.
Especially if the Preds come in with their guard down.

The Preds want to win this game for a clincher.

The Jackets want to win this game for their fans and finish the last two games of the season on a high note. 

so tonight there will be A LOT of fans in the NHL yelling:

<3 i scream, you scream, we ALL scream for BJs <3

jackets

Jackets

Jackets

Jackets

Jackets!!!!!

LETS GO JACKETS!!!   

The Magical BJs

Some people have asked me why I started a Blue Jackets blog since I grew up right outside Chicago and popped out of the womb a Blackhawks fan.

Honestly I didn't see my love of BJs coming. My whole life I have been strictly a Blackhawks and Sabres fan. The rest of the teams in the league could just go pound salt.

On Friday April 1st 2011, my mom and I, all decked out in our Blackhawks gear headed down to Columbus from Akron to root on our lovely Hawks.

The moment we walked through the doors of Nationwide Arena I could feel the magic of the arena. If you know me then you know that when I go to any sporting event the first thing I do is find my seat and scope out the nearest bathroom. I didn't do that this time. I had the urge to walk around and explore. Nationwide Arena is basically a museum for all things Blue Jackets.

 

You can tell that this venue is strictly a hockey venue. In fact I've never even been to a venue for any sporting event that takes this much pride in their team. This is the kind of venue that will make little kids become hockey fans. After being fascinated with each exhibit, including the drawings on the wall :) , I took my seat directly behind the Blue Jackets bench. The sweetest little kids were standing right in our seats waiting for their favorite players to come out. They made my heart turn into a puddle of gooey happiness. What was even cooler was the amount of players who acknowledged the kids. I've never seen so much love coming out of the locker rooms in my life. 

The best part about sitting within reaching distance of Voracek's beautiful locks is getting to see how the team reacts to the game. Yes there were often times i was distracted because a few guys didn't quite master the art of getting in and out of the bench.....sometimes you just have to use the door. It's ok, just do it, you won't look like an ass lol. I have to tell you these Blue Jackets have heart. I truthfully thought with Mason and Nash out they were going to die a slow painful death on the ice. Boy did they  bring it. In fact I think it's a good thing both of them were out. The Jackets have a lot of talent and now that the season is almost over they need to spend the summer molding that talent into something beautiful. Once this team clicks they will be contenders for the Stanley Cup. I can feel it. 

Here's the other great thing about the team: They are in Ohio.

See I've lived in the Akron/Cleveland area for 15 years. I've tried to get out multiple times and everytime I get sucked back into Ohio. So I figure if I am being held hostage in this state I might as well make the best of it. 

So from here on out I am supporting the Blue Jackets.... well as my number 2 team. 

                                <3 I scream, you scream, we all scream for BJs <3

THE EMPTY NET HEART ATTACK: a semi review of the Blue Jackets: 0 vs Stars: 3

When I watch a hockey game there are TWO things I pray I won't see.

1. A skate to the carotid artery
2. An empty net

After watching the highlights from the game last night I am SO GLAD I couldn't watch the game.

Within the first five minutes of the game Dallas attacked the net and scored on a power play. That's fine. That kind of thing  happens. Even to Stanley Cup Champions.

For the rest of the game the Jackets fought back like their lives depended on it. Like they were fighting for that last playoff spot. A play-off spot that is so far out of reach at this point in the season for them.

Then there was the third period. Oh the third period. With a minute left in the period the Jackets pulled their goalie. My heart dropped and for forty five seconds I did not breathe. Dallas scored two goals in 45 seconds. TWO!
They tried, you can tell they tried. Dallas just out skated and out shot them in those 45seconds.


STARS:

1. Lehtonen : He was on point last night. Protecting the net like a cobra protecting it's eggs.
2. Richards : first goal of the game. You've got to give it to him. Out of all the goals that night his was the only one that got past a goalie.... just saying.
3. Blue Jackets: They played with heart and NEVER gave up. At least that's what the highlight reel showed me.




After Saturdays game against the Sabres the Jackets season will be over. At least I know they are going to fight to the death for the rest of their season. At least they will give their all and do it for the fans, that much is obvious.

So thank you for that BUT please, PLEASE,  no more empty nets. My heart just can't take it.

                      <3 i scream, you scream, we all scream for BJs <3

Blackhawks scream for the love of BJs : Bluejackets @ Dallas preview

Hey guys this preview is going to be short and sweet :)

Goodnews Blue Jackets tonight you have what I like to call "black magic" on your side. "Black Magic" is when all Blackhawks fans across the world are rooting for the underdog team to kick ass. When those two fanbases combine an explosion of hockey magic happens. 

Bad News: Dallas wants this win JUST as bad. Their playoff status depends on it. 


Basically what I'm saying is you're walking into a firefight. You need to attack the net. You HAVE to be on top of the rebounds tonight. 

As much as I hate saying this the BJs NEED to send BOLL out as much as possible to rattle Dallas. Hit em where it hurts. I have faith in you. 

Do this for your fans. Unless some miracle happens you are not making the playoffs. Woo GO BLUE JACKETS!!!!

<3 I scream, you scream, the Blackhawks scream for BJs <3 

WELCOME TO THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF BJs

Hello there Blue Jackets fans!!!
Hello there horny teenage males who stumbled upon this blog because they thought it was about blow jobs! Its not, it's about something equally as awesome.... HOCKEY.

This is my first stab at sports blogging so bear with me. Feel free to leave me constructive criticism. Saying "you suck" is not going to help me get any better so please say "you suck BECAUSE....."

I dont have cable so wrap ups will be on nights when i don't have to work but previews will always happen. :)

so GOOD LUCK to our lovely Columbus Blue Jackets
 
                                 <3 I scream, you scream, we all scream for BJs <3