Decent Bowl XXXIX

NY Same Sex Marriage Case: A state district court judge in NYC (how fitting) struck down the sex specific domestic law of New York. An appeal will be submitted; the ruling surely will not hold. The words of the decision are nice, but is this the way to go? Maybe not -- I think you target the discrimination of benefits, not "marriage" per se, when you fight this thing in the courts at this point of time.

Still, it's only a district court ruling, so calm down. Jack Balkin, as my comments at his blog suggest, is weirdly over the top in his criticism. Ditto on the Dean pick as DNC head. See here for a few thoughts why the hyper critics should just take a bloody chill pill.

Lame commercials; not too exciting game.

The game was tied 7-7 at Half Time with neither team playing that smoothly. In fact, the officials weren't too good either with two key plays overturned. The Pats committed some penalties and a key fumble, but the Eagles' touchdown was eventually matched. This was the theme of the day -- the Eagles responded in the Second Half, after NE went up 14-7, but soon enough the Patriots made it 21-14. And, as is apparently necessary, a key (chip shot) field goal gave the Pats an important ten point lead.

After an interception at up a bit of time, the Eagles managed to get the ball back with about 5:30 left in the game, but then went into slow mode. They really had to score before the Two Minute Warning, though they did not seem to be in any hurry. This might have really been fateful, but the Patriots gave up a long pass not long after the final break. The Eagles could not regain the onside kick, but had two time outs left. They got the ball back near their own End Zone with :45 left, needing a field goal to tie. It was a long shot, but possible -- but again, they didn't execute very well. An interception on Third Down clinched it.

24-21. The Pats probably was not too nervous any point during the game. The Eagles suddenly became cautious and lackluster when it counted. A bit more effort, they could have very well scored before the Two Minute Warning, making it tougher for the Pats (and maybe get a chance to punt, making that final drive a lot easier). A special nod though should be given to TO -- Owens did not just come back and play after a serious injury six weeks ago, an injury few thought he would conquer in time, but was a key player in the Eagles arsenal today. His mouth might turn people off, but his actions back up his words.