Jameis Watch: Hypocrisy
December 19th, 2014
Crab-legs-stealing, BB-gun-shooting, obscenity-hollering, Heisman-Trophy-winning, national champion James Winston, the pride of Florida State University, continues to look like a much better quarterback prospect than Mike Glennon and Josh McCown.
It’s Joe’s daily nugget on the Jameis Watch, celebrating the best quarterback to wear No. 5 ever in the state of Florida.
For reasons that are starting to become clear, Joe didn’t understand the absolute rage and vile that Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston evoked out of some people for the past year.
Winston has become sports’ biggest villain since Barry Bonds, and Bonds largely was loathed because he was such a miserable arsehole and cheater.
Winston? He’s done far better in his short sports career than Bonds ever had. Quick, what did Bonds ever win?
Yes, Winston was involved in an investigation over a hassle with a girl. Charges were never filed against him; the criminal case was closed.
And for Joe, it was closed as well. We live in America, not some banana republic. If there is not enough evidence for a charge, a party remains free. Joe understands this is not a popular theory on Twitter.
Joe traveled to cover some Bucs road games and, naturally, on Saturdays before the Bucs game, wandered into watering holes to watch college football. Since Florida State has been chasing national titles the past two years, their games were almost always on a big screen no matter what town Joe happened to be in.
The vile reactions Winston evoked from folks in bars took Joe aback. Cocky, criminal, dumb, are only a few of the printable words people hollered at the TV screens about Winston.
Man!
From where this rage came, Joe wasn’t sure. Sadly, weekly it seems, we learn of college athletes getting into hassles with the cops. Charges that stick and result in a sentence of some sort.
Yet Joe has never seen nor heard people freak out like they do and have over Winston. Why? Joe couldn’t put his finger on it but it was unsettling.
Then, last night, while avoiding that pile of horse dung that was the Titans at Jags game, Joe came across the following on his Twitter feed:
Zach Mettenberger was actually charged with sexual assault in college, Jameis wasn’t, who do you hear more about? #TENvsJAX
— Lacy McMullen Jr (@mcmullenforus) December 19, 2014
Well now.
Joe did some digging.
Per Marc Weiszer of the Athens Banner-Herald, Mettenberger offered a guilty plea — he didn’t go to trial, he fessed up.
Former Georgia quarterback Zach Mettenberger pleaded guilty Monday to two counts of misdemeanor sexual battery, saying he is taking “full responsibility” for his actions.
Mettenberger grabbed the breasts and buttocks of a woman at Flip Flops, a bar near Valdosta, on March 7, according to Southern Judicial Circuit District Attorney J. David Miller. The victim was an employee of the bar but not working that night, Miller said.
“He was at the bar and was highly, highly intoxicated,” Miller said. “He grabbed the young lady in places he had no business placing his hands.”
Mettenberger served a year’s probation and 80 hours of community service for his debt to society.
Now let’s think about this. The way some folks freak out over Winston, it is as if he is Charles Manson, that he will stain a community and wreck a franchise, both outrageous notions. But that is the reaction Winston provokes.
Mind you, Winston has professed his innocence all along. Again, he was not charged. Mettenberger plead guilty, which often brings lesser charges to the crime. You know, a plea deal?
Have you read or heard anyone wail about Mettenberger playing for the Titans? Or that he should be thrown in jail for decades? Of course not.
With Winston? The world will come to an end. Joe is convinced cutting off Winston’s right hand wouldn’t satisfy some the way they freak out over Winston.
Double-standard? You damned right. Hypocrisy? Absolutely.
Then it hit Joe where the base of all this rage is against Winston. What’s the difference between Winston and Mettenberger, other than one admitted guilt in a crime and the other was never charged?
You shouldn’t need a calculator to add this up.
December 19th, 2014 at 6:34 pm
Just wait till Jameis signs….then the law siuts will come out !
December 19th, 2014 at 6:41 pm
Draft Jameis and we’ll get plenty of drama, not sure about wins though.
December 19th, 2014 at 6:41 pm
May i play the race card?
December 19th, 2014 at 6:42 pm
Fantastic post Joe! I’m one that hates the “race card” but it’s gotten to the point where it has become the only explanation for such asinine vitriol. This guy will be incredible! Mariota isn’t a system product and that’s it.
December 19th, 2014 at 6:44 pm
I mean Mariota is just a system qb.
December 19th, 2014 at 6:44 pm
Mark Sanchez also had a sexual assault charge. I don’t see anyone calling him a rapist.
The hypocrites are likely the ones who compare him to Cam, Vince Young, Jamarcus Russel, Geno Smith. Players that are nothing like Jameis’ playing style whatsoever. We all know what they are trying to say. But, they won’t out and out say it.
In reality, his play best resembles Big Ben.
December 19th, 2014 at 6:47 pm
Joe….Joe…Joe….This is not simply about the sexual misadventures. Although even if what Jameis did was legal it showed HORRIBLE judgement. Do we really want our starting QB in the newspaper for nailing girls while his friends tape it?
Is that illegal? Of course not. But does it show bad judgement and a definite lack of character? YES! We’ve all fooled around with women improperly. But I’ve never got one juiced up and had my friends tape us while we went at it.
It’s not the “sexual charge” that worries me, although again even though not illegal it was stupid and reflects poor judgement.
It’s not the crab legs. it’s not the BB gun. It’s not the yelling in the student center…it’s the freaking PATTERN of STUPID stunts. Classless acts that reflect a lack of character and judgment. Taken individually none of these would be a deal breaker for me. But his pattern has been disturbing enough to send up HUGE red flags. Let him come back to school for a year and show that he’s grown up and I’d stop hammering him as a top selection.
it’s really simple. Yes Jameis has lots of talent. So does Mariota. Both or neither will make it in the NFL. But if it’s even CLOSE…why take a chance on a kid with a PATTERN of bad judgement and lack of character?
December 19th, 2014 at 6:49 pm
Behavior can change. But it is hard to develop NFL skills if they are not already in your genes. Not sure BB guns is high crime standard to keep a person unemployed.
December 19th, 2014 at 6:50 pm
Geeez the guy was drunk and groped a woman at a bar. Think that has happened to a few of us if we are honest.
December 19th, 2014 at 6:52 pm
Just curious. Do any of you have sons? I have a 36 year old the pride of my life. If he told me…hey dad guess what I did at college…partied with a chick..nailed her with my friends while we recorded the fun.
I’d still love him. I’d tell him though how disappointed he was. I have some major character flaws and I’ve certainly done my share with women, but I’ve never disrespected one like that!
I do not have a daughter. So you guys with daughter can tell me how you’d feel if she went to college and a guy convinced her LEGALLY to do the dirty with him while his friends recorded it? Is that all on Jameis? No it takes two to tango but they were HIS friends doing the recording.
But again if that was the ONLY mistake I could more easily forgive and forget.
December 19th, 2014 at 6:54 pm
Mettenberger admitted that he did wrong and took the punishment. I don’t know the circumstances, but he might have had the same chance of getting off as did Winston, but he ‘took responsibility’ for his actions. *I* don’t know if Winston is guilty of what the young lady accuses him, nor do I know if he’s innocent. NOT being charged does NOT mean that someone is innocent, it could just as easily mean there is not enough evidence to convict. I will admit that I haven’t read every article about Winston, but of what I have read, he hasn’t admitted wrong-doing to ANYTHING. He has had an excuse for everything. THAT is the difference. To be fair, *I* wouldn’t want Mettenberger either. I don’t see either one having a HOF career in the NFL.
Quite frankly, I see this whole ‘Jameis Watch’ as being a bit silly ( similar to the constant Johnny Football articles last year). Just as Johnny was not a ‘Lovie’ type of guy, neither is Winston. And Mariotta doesn’t fit the kind of offense that Lovie likes. I really do not see Lovie drafting either one. But that’s just my personal opinion.
December 19th, 2014 at 6:55 pm
the double standard is here and it has always been here I will just say this young black male who is about to make a lot of money, everybody is not happy about that!
December 19th, 2014 at 6:56 pm
@Joe
“Not sure BB guns is high crime standard to keep a person unemployed.”
Absolutely NOT. Nor is screaming obscenities in the student union..nor is shoplifting…it’s everything put together…the PATTERN
You know how it works Joe. With a 97mph fastball, 6-5 225 great football player, Jameis has been worth millions for several years. At least projected millions Do we not believe that dozens of advisors, many of them professional PR people…shrinks…ministers..etc have not been working with Jameis for quite awhile. His pattern reveals a pathological problem despite all the wonderful things laid on his plate.
Let him return to school and PROVE it was just youthful stupidity. The onus is on him not the Bucs.
Apparently Joe you have written off Mariota completely.
Question for Joe. Who do you consider the better prospect…Johnny Football or Mariota?
December 19th, 2014 at 6:58 pm
Johnny. Seen him put a team on his back. A team that wasn’t worth squat before or since he played; beat some of the best teams in the country.
Joe’s not anti-Mariota so much as he is pro-Jameis.
December 19th, 2014 at 7:00 pm
I second what StPeteBucsFan says. It’s not the allegations it’s the pattern of bad decisions. Even if you know in your heart of hearts that you didn’t do it , logic would tell you to remain low key and not scream a sexual meme in front of a ton of people. He might become an amazing pro QB but a lot of homework still must be done. I just do not see a low key coaching staff or the Glazers wanting to deal with the overblown negative media attention that will surround Jameis. I think Lovie and Licht go Mariota.
December 19th, 2014 at 7:00 pm
@Eric
Young black unarmed men are being shot down every day in our street. White privilege is a reality. I would be the first to admit racism is still rampant in our society. But race has NOTHING to do with this.
I loathe Johnny Football far more than Jameis. In fact I want to root for Jameis. He simply has given me nothing to root for other than his majestic athletic talent. He has a million dollar smile. He’s been given the world and what has done with that gift? To those of us less blessed that’s a pissser.
“To those who are given a lot, much is expected.” I was not the one who made that up and it comes from the world’s most popular book.
December 19th, 2014 at 7:03 pm
@Joe
“Joe’s not anti-Mariota so much as he is pro-Jameis.”
Thanks for the answer Joe. Disagree about Johnny Football and teams on his back. Mike Evans might have had a little to do with it. But I accept your point and simply disagree.
And I’m like you…not so anti Jameis but pro Mariota.
In a my perfect world Jameis would go back to school, prove he’s grown up, and then we draft him. But I realize this is our one shot and so many of you want to roll the dice.
December 19th, 2014 at 7:04 pm
@Joe…………..St.Pete is absolutely Spot on with his analysis. It is not one thing in particular that makes Jameis undesirable to most sane folks. It is the pattern. Part of me thinks you would sell your soul to the Devil for a Franchise QB and this is clouding your vision.
December 19th, 2014 at 7:05 pm
Nope. Sanchez was never charged but like Winston, was investigated for sexual assault.
December 19th, 2014 at 7:07 pm
At least with last night’s losers bowl (Jax vs Tenn), it almost guarantees us a top 3 draft order. Number 1, unless the Buc’s find a way to blow it and win a game. I don’t think they have a chance against GB, but that last game of the year against the Saints scares me. What if the Saints have locked up the division crown. They might want to rest players, because with that dreadful won-loss record they won’t get any breaks. If that happens, the perfect storm could hit and there goes our #1 or even top 3 draft order and we’re back to 4-7th place and crappy odds of landing a top notch QB. And any thought of trading away that top pick for multiple draft choices goes right out the window, too.
December 19th, 2014 at 7:07 pm
Joe
College is way different from the NFL. Jamarcus, Ryan Leaf… To say you prefer Johnny to Mariota is like saying Tebow is better than a prospect QB because Tebow put the Gators on his back.
December 19th, 2014 at 7:07 pm
Joe
College is way different from the NFL. Jamarcus, Ryan Leaf… To say you prefer Johnny to Mariota is like saying Tebow is better than a prospect QB because Tebow put the Gators on his back.
December 19th, 2014 at 7:08 pm
Pulling pranks — pretty much what Winston has done — should not ban you from being an NFL quarterback.
How did boy scout Josh Freeman work out?
Hell, Adrian Clayborn slugged a cabbie in college. Plead guilty to assault. Not only was he a first-round pick, the guy has been an absolute angel in the NFL.
December 19th, 2014 at 7:13 pm
Mettenberger touched a clothed woman in bad places. Winston, ALLEGEDLY, penetrated a woman and forced her to do oral sex against her will. BIG DIFFERENCE!
December 19th, 2014 at 7:19 pm
It’s a huge decision I am going to trust Lovie and Licht to make the proper pick. Glad it’s not me and glad we have months of time before the draft.
December 19th, 2014 at 7:23 pm
Joe said:
“Hell, Adrian Clayborn slugged a cabbie in college. Plead guilty to assault.”
You mean he ‘took responsibility’ for his actions, and the NFL say that as a sign of maturity. Do you think they want a player who will blame everyone around him if he doesn’t play well?
” Sanchez was never charged but like Winston, was investigated for sexual assault.”
Was Mark Sanchez a Heisman winner, on an undefeated team and in the limelight every week? BIG difference. Where it happens can also play a part. We all know that a player can get away with things in Jacksonville, that would make headlines if a player on a New York team did the same thing.
How do we know that no one called him “a rapist”. I’d be willing to bet that the girl still does (and her family/friends).
December 19th, 2014 at 7:27 pm
@lightningbuc
And that’s the word – allegedly – that people keep forgetting. And he wasn’t charged, but he’s an alleged rapist forever. There are cases where people are actually innocent of crimes. Not everything is cut and dried because an investigation happens after an accusation is made.
Is he an angel or poster boy like so many others before him? No, he’s not. But we’re measuring his ability to fly right in the NFL, and so far there’s nothing to suggest he won’t grow up and mature into someone that can make better decisions.
December 19th, 2014 at 7:29 pm
Read the case history and police reports/affadavits which are available, Joe. It certainly appears that he got away with rape, and certain people associated with FSU athletic dept and the Tallahassee Police Dept helped him do it. They certainly bungled the case badly enough to make sure he wouldn’t be charged.
Ben Roethlisberger also was never criminally charged with rape, but no one has any trouble believing he did it, and there was enough evidence to force him to settle in civil court. Sure, Steelers fans can say they don’t give a …. about it, since Rapelsberger took the Steelers to 3 Super Bowls, and won two of them. But, it still wouldn’t feel right to root for the man to be successful.
Whether Winston is guilty or not, I don’t know. But I don’t want to spend the next several years rooting for a QB who likely got away with rape, and there are many others who feel the same, and will continue to feel that way about him. I am hoping the Bucs don’t want this fiasco hanging over the club, and will steer clear of him to select Mariota, or wait until later in the draft to take a QB. I see Ryan Leaf and Vince Young syndrome written all over this guy.
December 19th, 2014 at 7:31 pm
The funniest thing about this whole debate is that if we draft either of these QBs and win , no one will give a sh*t. I just can’t wait until the draft, so everyone will shut up about it.
Side note. Thanks joe for all the time and effort you put into this, I know myself and others check this site religiously for any updates about our terrible beloved bucs and you never fail us. Thanks to all the joes and have a happy Xmas(or you know one of the other ones) and new year!
December 19th, 2014 at 7:31 pm
Wow, Joe. Throwing that race card out there might be a reach. The charges are not apples to apples. One was a misdemeanor the other a felony. One the guy pleaded guilty and suffered the consequences, the other the guy said he didn’t do it and was not charged. Now some think in Winston’s case it was a botched police investigation and or a cover up. We will probably never know the truth, but I’m not sure how you come up with this being a race issue.
On another note, in a prior article a poster asked for a nickname for our Offensive Line….
How about calling them the “Pewter People Greeters”?
December 19th, 2014 at 7:31 pm
And the accuser is a girl that had several different types of DNA on her from that night. Give me a break, all a woman has to do accuse someone to ruin that persons life. As much as people don’t like Winston, if there was hard evidence he’d be under the jail by now. He’s a beast on the field and I can’t wait for new years day to see FSU vs Oregon. I believe whoever wins is the QB we’ll draft.
December 19th, 2014 at 7:34 pm
If Winston weren’t 27-0 as a starter, playing for FSU, and black, would the debate be raging at all?
Our society loves knocking people off pedestals, and loves playing up stereotypes. Loves it.
December 19th, 2014 at 7:39 pm
Speaking for Pablo
“Pablo is disturbed that Joe continues to use words that confuse Pablo like “hypocracy”…..Pablo also thinks that Joe likes bad boy QBs…..Johnny Football & now Jameis Winston…..although Winston hasn’t been charged with anything….he probably wishes he was.” Pablo likes bad boys too…his favorite is Aaron Hernandez”
December 19th, 2014 at 8:01 pm
Thanks for this read Joe. That’s why i frequent your site. You keep it real!!! Just boils down to, some folks don’t like chocolate.
December 19th, 2014 at 8:05 pm
Joe you really can’t put your finger on it? Really Joe? Come on brother you’re better than that.
Here’s a nice little tid bit. I used to “date” this stripper hot blonde with legs for days. She worked at the mons and 2001. She would tell me about bucs parties she’d be hired to “perform” at. Believe it or not the most WHOLESOME iconic bucs would do very illegal things with her. More than one at a time, if you know what I mean.
It’s all hogwash. The kid is being persecuted bc of who he is not what he’s done. Look at the press and jail time Vick got vs what Big Ben got. Simple as that. Although there are NO racist in Florida so it really is hard to put your finger on it.
December 19th, 2014 at 8:11 pm
I’ve read around the place that quite a few people are comparing J.W. to Ben Rothlisberger from a style of play point of view.
Didn’t Big Ben have a run in with a sexual assault allegation as well? Doesn’t seem to bother Pittsburgh all that much anymore.
I cant see any future problem with JW that couldn’t be solved by a team assigned watchdog entourage.
JW>>MM
December 19th, 2014 at 8:18 pm
Come on people…it has nothing to do with race. It has to do with levels of the accusation. Zach touched a butt and boob. Heck, football players touch each others butts all the time.
The Winston accusation was a bit more intense.
It also has to do with Zach not being a high first round quarterback. No one cares much about what happens to a guy taken after the first round.
Again, not racially motivated.
Just because you cry wolf, that doesn’t mean there is one.
December 19th, 2014 at 8:25 pm
Bonzai
Some people would refute that the assassination of MLK wasn’t racially motivated. He was just at the wrong place at the wrong time.
December 19th, 2014 at 8:31 pm
“I cant see any future problem with JW that couldn’t be solved by a team assigned watchdog entourage.”
The top tier college teams are nothing more than a triple AAA level NFL program. The NFL has no minor league, it has big time college football.
Big time college football generates MILLIONS. As in Jimbo’s new contract extension that raised his pay from just about 3 to just above 5 million annually, including bonuses and raises for his assistants.
Why would anybody believe that Jameis hasn’t had a large contingent of assigned watchdogs? Both personally and from the team.
Stop being so naive. FSU is one of the very top programs in the nation. They have virtually unlimited resources.
And so just use your noggins. Kid gets messed up in inappropriate sexual hijinks. Even IF it was the girl seducing him he has to explain the boorish behavior of having his friends watch and record. OK so let’s get past the sexual issue.
What kind of freaking idiot does not lay low after such a close call. Is he that damn dumb that he’s unaware he’s placing millions on the line. Are you all so naive as to not believe Jimbo has tried to protect his investment with advisors and “baby sitters”. And I’ll even give Jimbo the benefit of the doubt. Perhaps he did it for all the right reasons because he genuinely cares for Jameis as a person. I can accept that.
What I can’t accept is that Jameis almost blows his career and in fact entire life with a sexual “misadventure”. After that close call and Gawd knows how much advice from FSU leaders both with the program and even outside it…can you say Derrick Brooks? Although I guess DB55 can still be said to be associated with it.
Again AFTER that close call…AFTER all that advice..you still shoplift…you still make a complete arse out of yourself yelling crap in the student union?
This kid has been a trainwreck. None of the individual acts rise to the level of dropping his stock. Put them altogether and anybody who can’t see a disturbing pattern would be happy to have anybody who can throw and run and play QB get drafted by the Bucs.
December 19th, 2014 at 8:31 pm
Joe Says:
December 19th, 2014 at 7:08 pm
Part of me thinks you would sell your soul to the Devil for a Franchise QB and this is clouding your vision.
Pulling pranks — pretty much what Winston has done — should not ban you from being an NFL quarterback.
How did boy scout Josh Freeman work out?
Hell, Adrian Clayborn slugged a cabbie in college. Plead guilty to assault. Not only was he a first-round pick, the guy has been an absolute angel in the NFL.
……………………………………………..
Whatever makes you sleep better at night Sirs.
BTW what is the record of struggling African American QBs in college that went to the NFL??????
December 19th, 2014 at 8:33 pm
Should have said “Socially Challenged African American” QBs
And what is the recent record for Heisman Trophy winning QBs?
December 19th, 2014 at 8:36 pm
You guys wanna pull the “race card”
There I just pulled it for you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 19th, 2014 at 8:37 pm
Anyway enough about that.
I like to evaluate QBs just like Lovie, based on looks. Although I’ve never seen him throw a pass or play a game I think we should draft Bryce Petty from Baylor bc based on his picture he looks like a franchise QB. A little bit of Elway and a little bit of Aikman. Perfect!
December 19th, 2014 at 8:39 pm
Guys
I’ve been blasted on this board for being a progressive. I grew up right across the street from the black hood. I’ve seen racism up close and personal in the Army when I went to Vietnam.
We had a guy stalk and murder a young black man in our state. I understand racism.
Playing the “race card” in this story does nothing to stop racism or lead to any rational discussion.
AGAiN. A national political show host making fun of Ted Cruz’s recent screwup that gave the Dems another weekend of Senate hearings to confirm more Dem judges uses Johnny Football as an example to set up the piece. As in how freaking unpopular JF is because of his arrogance and fingertip rubbing to show he’s money.
Mariota is not a white person btw. People LOVE Russell Wilson who is obviously not white.
This is an age old dislike of anybody who is blessed beyond belief and then uses those blessings for what? Chicks, crab legs and shooting your mouth off in a student union.
We have SERIOUS problems with race in our country. As in murdering unarmed black young men. I get that. You cheapen the charges of actual racism with these faux gripes. It’s like a girl crying rape when that’s not the case. She muddies the water for all the women who ARE raped.
December 19th, 2014 at 8:39 pm
Very interesting that the only African American QB to win the SB was Doug Williams. (It’s a Bucs Life}
Wilson is Mulatto. Only other partial African American to win.
December 19th, 2014 at 8:41 pm
St. Pete……………Bro chill out. You are completely on point with your assessment of the big picture. Some idiots pulled the race card. Stupid stuff imo. Facts are facts. That is why I just asked really hard questions above
December 19th, 2014 at 8:41 pm
Gatr
To my credit I did say there are no racists in FL. Especially not in the panhandle or Gainesville area. Miami on the other hand, those people well that another story entirely.
December 19th, 2014 at 8:42 pm
DB55………….If Im correct you were one of the first people here to say that he is judged because of his race?
December 19th, 2014 at 8:44 pm
Fact is I don’t think we want Either of these two “Franchise QBs” in probably the Weakest QB class in at least a decade. We are three yrs from being a contender IF we build the Lines
December 19th, 2014 at 8:49 pm
Joe, I respect you but I really don’t think either of these QB’s are worth betting the franchise on. Drafting Freeman set us back at least 4 years. I think Winston, like Manziel is an ok, NOT great prospect, but NOT worth the #1 or 2 pick. All of the experts that I have read agree that there is no Andrew Luck in this draft. Assuming they are right, this is a stupid debate and you should stop your daily Winston updates. With all due respect Joe, you were POUNDING the table for Manziel and he has yet to legitimately beat out a journeyman who is only slightly better than McCown. Stop this Madness. We will not compete next year either. Therefore, let’s trade down, get as many picks as possible and draft Hundely in the 3rd round or take a chance on a free agent like Sanchez, Mallet or Hoyer. While I don’t like any of these guys, it preferable to setting the franchise back another 5 years by betting on either Winton or Mariota. It’s too bad many of us live in Florida. If not for FSU fans there would be little support for Winston. The fact that many are trying to explain away his obvious character flaws is irrelevant. The fact is he is a project in the NFL.
December 19th, 2014 at 8:54 pm
gatr17- what you said!
December 19th, 2014 at 9:02 pm
Gatr
My bad my phone died. I’ve avoided this convo. I don’t really post on James watch except to say “#1” on game days. But when I saw joe say he couldn’t “put his finger on it” it touched a button. This is a 4.0 student heisman trophy winner who is undefeated. But he’s called a thug criminal etc with no charges pressed. Call me sensitive but I can only come to one logical conclusion in my simple mind. With that said I’ll change the subject as i find it inappropriate in this forum. I’d rather fight with you guys about glennon and barron than race.
December 19th, 2014 at 9:03 pm
BTW, I don’t care at all about race, only performance and potential.
December 19th, 2014 at 9:07 pm
DB55…………………..From one die hard Bucs fan to another………….COOL Man!
Youre right. Let’s let it all come out in the wash.
Go Bucs!!!
December 19th, 2014 at 9:08 pm
Im going to play some Tomb Raider with the Mrs cause the boy is at a Christmas function.
Later Bucs fans
December 19th, 2014 at 9:10 pm
Sweet!
December 19th, 2014 at 9:10 pm
DB55, I don’t know or care if Winston is a thug. The last time I heard the “winner” arguement was from Florida fans on Tebow who was a BUST in the NFL. And I don’t care what race Winton is, he plays terrible competition and throws too many picks. Remember a QB’s accuracy decreases not increases in the NFL. Regardless of race IMO, he is not worth the risk!
December 19th, 2014 at 9:12 pm
The “RACE CARD?” It is your deck. if the race cared is in your deck of cards who put it there?
December 19th, 2014 at 9:20 pm
If it makes any difference I’ve been calling for Bryce petty all along. But after reading this I couldn’t help but to roll my eyes.
“The vile reactions Winston evoked from folks in bars took Joe aback. Cocky, criminal, dumb, are only a few of the printable words people hollered at the TV screens about Winston.
Man!
From where this rage came, Joe wasn’t sure. Sadly, weekly it seems, we learn of college athletes getting into hassles with the cops. Charges that stick and result in a sentence of some sort.
Yet Joe has never seen nor heard people freak out like they do and have over Winston. Why? Joe couldn’t put his finger on it but it was unsettling.”
Last comment about this please.
December 19th, 2014 at 9:25 pm
To those who say that Winston resembles “Big Ben”, Big Ben has to move out of the pocket to throw in rythm in most throws that he makes. Winston throws in rythm from the pocket and move out of the pocket when necessary make plays. In such a closer resemblance would be to Arron Rodger. The way that he breaks tackes and make plays resembles Big Ben. The differential betweend Big Ben, Aaron Rodger and Winsto is that Winston breaks tackles in the pocket while passing from the pocke and makes plays.
December 19th, 2014 at 9:25 pm
Mariota has none of that baggage and would suffer much better under an o-line made of toilet paper. As they said in Casino, “why take a chance? That’s how I see it anyway.”
December 19th, 2014 at 9:32 pm
gatrbuc17 Says:
December 19th, 2014 at 8:31 pm
Joe Says:
December 19th, 2014 at 7:08 pm
Part of me thinks you would sell your soul to the Devil for a Franchise QB and this is clouding your vision.
Pulling pranks — pretty much what Winston has done — should not ban you from being an NFL quarterback.
How did boy scout Josh Freeman work out?
Hell, Adrian Clayborn slugged a cabbie in college. Plead guilty to assault. Not only was he a first-round pick, the guy has been an absolute angel in the NFL.
……………………………………………..
Whatever makes you sleep better at night Sirs.
BTW what is the record of struggling African American QBs in college that went to the NFL??????
gatrbuc17 Says:
December 19th, 2014 at 8:33 pm
Should have said “Socially Challenged African American” QBs
And what is the recent record for Heisman Trophy winning QBs?
gatrbuc17 Says:
December 19th, 2014 at 8:36 pm
You guys wanna pull the “race card”
There I just pulled it for you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You should shut up. The swamp was land that was donated to the Universtiy of Florida conditioned on the univesity never having a black quaterback. The number and percentage of white QB’s that have not had success in the NFL greatly out weights the lack of success of black QB’s in the NFL. If you are going to be a racist, do not be a dumb racist.
December 19th, 2014 at 9:35 pm
Bucnut2 Says:
December 19th, 2014 at 9:10 pm
DB55, I don’t know or care if Winston is a thug. The last time I heard the “winner” arguement was from Florida fans on Tebow who was a BUST in the NFL. And I don’t care what race Winton is, he plays terrible competition and throws too many picks. Remember a QB’s accuracy decreases not increases in the NFL. Regardless of race IMO, he is not worth the risk!
The ACC swept the SEC this years. You need to expound on your point so you do not sound like a dummy.
December 19th, 2014 at 9:36 pm
“But he’s called a thug criminal etc with no charges pressed.”
DB55
Again I understand your sensitivity and respect and would normally agree with it. Just not in this case.
I think Gatrbuc has probably let his Gator colors show and sometimes gone off on Jameis. But I honestly do not remember anybody calling him thug or criminal.
I guess technically some have speculated that he is guilty and I’m with you that’s inappropriate given none of us were there that night. But I honestly don’t read a lot of thug comments.
I want to like Jameis. The kid has an award winning smile, and mind boggling freakish athletic ability. He also has incredibly bad judgement.
If he did the “stupid” stuff AFTER narrowly averting a serious charge, after having tons of advice and protectors, when does it stop. Oh yes it stops when he makes that SUDDEN behavior change Joe is talking about after he’s drafted.
Understand the risk. IF we draft Jameis and he does mess up as a Buc, The people behind that decision will lose ALL credibility. They will be viewed as morons who took a stupid chance.
December 19th, 2014 at 9:45 pm
For all you that speaks of this race card, why are you and other posters so concerned about Winston, make preposterous comments not supported by facts or truth, but you are indifferent to Zach Mettenberger? Just answer the question!
December 19th, 2014 at 9:55 pm
@Loggendontosay
Zach had ONE incident!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
ONE!
He was drunk and grabbed a girls Boobs and Butt!
He manned up! Admitted it! And Moved ON!
Once can be a fluke
Twice can be an accident
Three or more times you start calling it a TREND
December 19th, 2014 at 9:56 pm
Understand the risk. IF we draft Jameis and he does mess up as a Buc, The people behind that decision will lose ALL credibility. They will be viewed as morons who took a stupid chance.
——————–
Lol, too late! Already look like morons. #2-12
December 19th, 2014 at 9:58 pm
And to StPete………………….I have made it Crystal Clear Many times how I Crucified Cam Newton while he was STILL a Gator for his problematic personalities.
My disdain for Winston has NOTHING to do with what team he plays for
December 19th, 2014 at 9:58 pm
LOL DB55
Spot on with that last post
December 19th, 2014 at 10:12 pm
I can garunteed he won’t make it to the 2nd round bc belli will snatch him up in a heartbeat. See belli only collects ballers and championships. Funny how that works.
December 19th, 2014 at 10:18 pm
“but you are indifferent to Zach Mettenberger”
Cmon Loggedon. Zach who? Nobody cares about Zach Mettenburg!!!!
We only care enough to btch if the Bucs picked him because he’s not an NFL QB.
According to the NFL website Mettenberger is projected as sixth round pick!
This is OUR POINT. We’re talking about a #1 pick with a Heisman trophy. If we take either Mariota or Winston there will be a spotlight so bright on the player and our team that all of this stuff will be talked about endlessly.
The best comparison to Jameis would be Cam Newton. Nobody screamed race when he was being hauled over the coals for “allegedly” stealing a computer. Or having his father “allegedly” getting a 100,000 offer from an SEC school for Cam’s services.
Did you not read how much abuse Joe took when he was promoting Johnny Football? And JF is only an arrogant loudmouth. He’s done nothing but get caught out late at night with hot chicks, and of course doing his “money” fingertip move on the field.
December 19th, 2014 at 10:19 pm
Again, where is the alleged rape victim’s graphic account of the event. Winston gave his. Where is hers?
December 19th, 2014 at 10:20 pm
belli a NYer a NY Giant baby. He wrangled LT, there’s no bigger badass in the game. Won a ring there too. So tampa keep on signing stand up nice guys like #93 and we’ll keep living in the NFL basement for years to come. Not sure why that’s so complicated. It prob just goes against your values and principles. I get, no judgement here but you can’t make meatloaf with chicken and fish. You heard big bird.
December 19th, 2014 at 10:20 pm
@Gatorbuc
Don’t be so sensitive. Your blood would not run blue and orange if you weren’t a little biased! 🙂
BTW what do you have for Jimbo post Jameis. The guy has already landed five 5 star recruits. I hope McElwain is the real deal. I’m optimistic for you guys. But you have truly spotted Jimbo a big head start.
December 19th, 2014 at 10:22 pm
Joe’s, Dumb Dumb, and Justin credibility = Freeman – Manziel.
December 19th, 2014 at 10:22 pm
@DB55
And so who would you rather root for? The real DB55 or LT?
Warren Sapp or GMC?
Aquib Talib or Ronde Barber..ok bad comparison because of the performance differential…but you get where I’m going with this.
December 19th, 2014 at 10:23 pm
Oh and parcells just told the press to stfu and kiss his ass. But we wouldn’t know nothing about that.
December 19th, 2014 at 10:24 pm
Joe’s, Big Mouth,Justin credibility = Freeman – Manziel
December 19th, 2014 at 10:26 pm
StPete………..I have been a Gators fan since 1972. Of course my blood is Orange and Blue.
I dont let that stand in the way of my Football learning.
And I think that Jimbo has done an OUTSTANDING job!!! FSU will be a force to be reckoned with for as Long as he is there!
Sorry that you think Im a homer because Im not. Half of my family went to FSU and Half went to UF. Im one of the ones that went to UF
December 19th, 2014 at 10:27 pm
BTW DB55 one of the reasons I loved our SB team was the way they represented. Sapp was the only true a hole on that team. At least the only star who was a jerk. OK Keyshawn was hard to root for in the same sense I wouldn’t wish to cheer for Johnny Football.
When you get used to rooting for incredible humans like Warrick Dunn or Derrick Brooks or Alstott and Barber and Lynch…these guys were the real deal.
December 19th, 2014 at 10:27 pm
Lt and 55 almost the same animal on the field but I’ll go w 55 cuz I seen him play live, even worked in the same building with him. Ran into him in the bathroom funny story, another day.
#99 all day not even close. Don’t ever compare the two again or I will find and I will lill you. Lol
Ronde just better all around player. Not even close.
December 19th, 2014 at 10:28 pm
Btw guys…………..Since the general consensus of comparisons is Winston/Newton………….
What is Cam’s Record now Four years into his career?
December 19th, 2014 at 10:33 pm
EF all the arguing guys!
Lets remember these days
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EytotBy4Zg
December 19th, 2014 at 10:39 pm
I think what bothers me is that the NFL is not being proactive enough. If they wanted they could institute a certain requirement before an athlete can play in the NFL. This should be done at the high school level on up. Colleges should have student athlete scholarships taken away if they frequently ignore the patterns and signs of recruiting high school athletes who are troubled, and already own a lengthy rap sheet. We have to stop giving student athletes a pass for bad academics and behavior just because they are talented, and have mad football skills.
I think if student athletes were held to meet a certain NFL behavioral criteria before they entered the NFL, it would clean-up a lot of the riff-raff in the future. Stop rewarding bad behavior. Of course apologist like Joe doesn’t help matters either. Seems Winston can do no wrong cause he got mad skills and thats all Joe cares about. If a student shows a pattern of behavioral and disciplinary problems he should not be applauded, or rewarded. At the age of eighteen, unless the child is mentally handicapped, they should have a good grasp on what is right or wrong. And if they choose to be bad, and have a lengthy rap sheet, they should never be able to enter the NFL. period
December 19th, 2014 at 10:41 pm
Stpete
Good point but at the same time are they here to win championship or the hearts and minds of the community? I think that’s the fundamental difference.
I dare to say we would NOT have won anything without Sapp. Who really gives a flying squirrel what they do off the field. Dashing goldson f’ed 400 families on TG. No mention of it, josh mccown f’ed one family front page news.
I’d rather have bad boys that win than choir boys that go 2-12. And that’s the bottom line cuz stone cold said so. Can you smelelelel what db55 is cookin?
December 19th, 2014 at 10:45 pm
Gatr
Yea buddy!! Ahh the good old days. So that story I posted about the girl (scroll up) let’s just say she rode the train to work. Don’t hear about that do you, but why would you. And if you did would you care?
December 19th, 2014 at 10:48 pm
Joe,
Please put down the kool-aid and step away from the glass.
1. You are comparing apples to oranges. Mettenberger fessed up to coping a feel (or10), this is NOT rape under any circumstances. Winston had intercourse, this is not the same same as coping a feel and would be rape if it was not consensual.
2. Mettenberger was kicked off of the Bulldogs team for this, Winston didn’t even miss a game.
3. I have no clue if Winston is innocent or guilty, but I would not trumpet the fact he wasn’t charged. Did you read the State DA’s statement? Or the NY Times? No charges could be filed due to the TPD’s botching of the case. Good grief, the Defense Attorney had a copy of the police report before the DA. Ask any lawyer about how often that happens.
Just because some people prefer Mariota becuase he seems to have higher morale values is an opinion, not discrimination.
December 19th, 2014 at 10:51 pm
wtf?
December 19th, 2014 at 10:53 pm
I’m sick of this guy getting a pass for everything. Hasn’t everyone finally realized how corrupt Florida State’s program is along with the Tallahassee Police Department? Winston can do anything he wants simply because he’s the star QB of FSU.
December 19th, 2014 at 10:56 pm
Honestly as I sit hear and think. I truly believe some BUC fans are simply accustom to losing. I see some as battered wives. The abuse is normal and without it they can’t really function. They defend their abusers and cling to the dysfunction. Sad but true.
He’ll change = it takes time
He a good father = he’s a proven coach who went to the SB
It’s not his fault = it’s not his fault.
December 19th, 2014 at 11:00 pm
gatr
Does that mean you’re in disbelief? I get it. The wholesome icon involved in such diabolical action, NEVER!!! I get it brother. Even the choir boys aren’t choir boys.
December 19th, 2014 at 11:01 pm
DB55
As long as the Glazers own the franchise I’ll feel like a battered wife or the red headed step child.
I remember reading analysis on teams that have long traditions of sucking which of course included the Bucs. The common denominator was bad ownership.
I’ve been to three Lightning games this year and that takes some of the sting out of it. At least there is a place to escape the suckitude of the Bucs and see it replaced by a young team that gets better every week.
Lightning games are actually fun!
December 19th, 2014 at 11:04 pm
@DB55 and Gatrbuc
I went to UC as in Cincinnati not California. We historically suck at football except for that brief Brian Kelly period.
And so I root for both your guys teams. I think McElwain will straighten out the Gators and what can you say about Jimbo. His record is pretty amazing and his recruiting is astounding.
Muschamp has a future as a Bucs coach. Inability to recruit a decent QB and very little offensive savvy with great athletes on defense. I’m glad the Gators at least broke that boring mold with McElwain. I think he was a great hire.
December 19th, 2014 at 11:05 pm
I keep hearing that. Their PR team has come to my workplace and given out promos and ticket but I’ve never been. Truth be told and I’m sure im way off base but don’t really feel like I belong. I’ve been to Storm games and enjoyed myself. Hockey idk I’m not there yet.
December 19th, 2014 at 11:24 pm
DB55
If you’ve never been you owe yourself one visit. It’s a totally different game in person. Football is better on TV. Hockey better in person.
IF you go pay attention to the chicks. They are the most knowlegable females in all of the sports world. Female hockey fans know their sport.
I remember the first game I took my wife. We had a 6-5 defenseman named Cory Cross who played like he was 5-6 not 6-5. He went into the corner with an opponent and two women behind us yell “Hit him with your purse Cory”.
OUCH. My wife was hooked. She even watches on TV more than me.
December 19th, 2014 at 11:38 pm
rodger that! Putting it on my bucket list now. I have a coworker who gets a Boner over hockey. He’s a Bruins fan and keeps inviting me to go. I guess I’ll take him up on it. We spar all day about NY vs NE sports. Best day was when I paperwalled his cubicle with Yankee posters. He was pissed to say the least. #goodtimes
December 20th, 2014 at 12:07 am
Well at least we now know that if Lovie passes on Winston, it’s because he’s a racist. No other explanation.
December 20th, 2014 at 12:12 am
@StPeteBucsFan….In the past 50 years, the rate of black Americans killed by police has dropped 70 percent. In 2012, 123 African-Americans were shot dead by police. There are currently more than 43 million blacks living in the U.S.A. Same year, 326 whites were killed by police bullets. Those are the latest stats available.
326 whites killed by police bullets in one year.
123 blacks killed by police officers in the same year.
Nuff said.
December 20th, 2014 at 12:54 am
“Since the general consensus of comparisons is Winston/Newton………….
What is Cam’s Record now Four years into his career?”
………..to absolutely only you is the consensus Winston/Newton.
Go ahead and point to any game in college game (Florida/Binn/ Auburn) where Cam Newton is comparable in play to Jameis Winston.
You know, the one quarterback playing in Dan Mullen and Gus Malzahn read option offenses vs Jimbo offenses. What games were you watching? Ironically, Mariota is far closer in style to Newton in college than Winston.
December 20th, 2014 at 1:35 am
If the NFL is going to ban participation in the league for petty crimes (yeah, like stealing crab legs should keep you from seeking gainful employment as an adult), good luck getting players or getting that past the NFLPA.
Funny. Adrian Clayborn did worse in college. He’s been a model citizen as a pro, but folks like you would have him in a ball an chain. Then again, didn’t see you whining about Clayborn’s record. #SituationalEthics
December 20th, 2014 at 2:13 am
Funny. Adrian Clayborn did worse in college. He’s been a model citizen as a pro, but folks like you would have him in a ball an chain. Then again, didn’t see you whining about Clayborn’s record. #SituationalEthics
——————————————————————————–
We’re not talking about Adrian Clayborn here. We’re talking about a guy who could be our #1 pick and the new face of our franchise that has been showing a pattern of many bad decisions, and pointed allegations all the way back to high school. Do we really believe at this moment in time we can expect him to behave professionally when we’re about to dump a butload of money in his lap. Is he mature enough to dedicate himself to his craft and keep himself clean and represent the face of the franchise? He has a lot of growing up to do and the NFL and the Bucs shouldn’t have to be his nanny.
December 20th, 2014 at 2:46 am
Thank you joe. I’ve been reading you here for over two years now, and that was your best article. By far.
December 20th, 2014 at 3:44 am
87ForJameisOrMariota Says:
December 20th, 2014 at 12:12 am
@StPeteBucsFan….In the past 50 years, the rate of black Americans killed by police has dropped 70 percent. In 2012, 123 African-Americans were shot dead by police. There are currently more than 43 million blacks living in the U.S.A. Same year, 326 whites were killed by police bullets. Those are the latest stats available.
326 whites killed by police bullets in one year.
123 blacks killed by police officers in the same year.
Nuff said.
It is impossible to be as stupid as you present yourself. There exist over 100 million caucasians in America. Your numbers do not support the premise of your argument statistically. Idiot!
December 20th, 2014 at 4:11 am
“but you are indifferent to Zach Mettenberger”
Cmon Loggedon. Zach who? Nobody cares about Zach Mettenburg!!!!
We only care enough to btch if the Bucs picked him because he’s not an NFL QB.
According to the NFL website Mettenberger is projected as sixth round pick!
This is OUR POINT. We’re talking about a #1 pick with a Heisman trophy. If we take either Mariota or Winston there will be a spotlight so bright on the player and our team that all of this stuff will be talked about endlessly.
The best comparison to Jameis would be Cam Newton. Nobody screamed race when he was being hauled over the coals for “allegedly” stealing a computer. Or having his father “allegedly” getting a 100,000 offer from an SEC school for Cam’s services.
Did you not read how much abuse Joe took when he was promoting Johnny Football? And JF is only an arrogant loudmouth. He’s done nothing but get caught out late at night with hot chicks, and of course doing his “money” fingertip move on the field.
The conflation in your argument of character and talent is not bells and whistles? The point of Joes article is not about the posters on his website. It is about media attention. You base your argument on the projected draft position of Zach Mettenberger but not his character. In reality, Character has nothing to do with talent. Tell me that you have never watched “Iron Man.” Other than stealing crabs and the incident with the B.B. gun (I have no I deal what the details are but will concede to those that are hammering the issue) Winston has done nothing wrong. The wrong that he did is so minor, it does not concern me. So, I ask you: Why the conflation of Character and Talent?
December 20th, 2014 at 4:17 am
gatrbuc17 Says:
December 19th, 2014 at 9:55 pm
@Loggendontosay
Zach had ONE incident!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
ONE!
He was drunk and grabbed a girls Boobs and Butt!
He manned up! Admitted it! And Moved ON!
Once can be a fluke
Twice can be an accident
Three or more times you start calling it a TREND
You did not answer the question? And what you describe is a third degree felony C. Apparently you have done it yourself. You are not allowed to do it, and you should never do it again!
December 20th, 2014 at 4:38 am
The average debt for each of the approximate 330 million Americans, is in excess of $56k. Might time for a move to an actual banana republic, you’ll be better off. The hypocrisy, is saying ‘we live in America’. Put yourself on a pedastal while the rest of the world cringes at your ingnorance
December 20th, 2014 at 9:38 am
After this tonuge lashing, I think he’ll be fine. http://m.tmz.com/#Article/2014/11/17/kevin-hart-to-jameis-winston-stop-doing-dumb-s-t
December 20th, 2014 at 10:01 am
Racism exists but it doesn’t explain everything. This article left out facts making it seem like the only difference was due to racism. Here are the extra facts left out: 1. Winston was accused of rape vs Zach groped a girl; both bad but if true rape is worse. 2. Winston was caught on film stealing crab legs from the grocery store. 3. Winston was caught on video standing up on a table at the FSU student center yelling, “F— that girl in the P—-“. Wonder what girl he is referring to?. …. But hey let’s ignore all the facts and inflame the racism card; it gets the news media more hits to there website driving more ad money even if the cost is harmful to society ….. I like your site Joe but not this article.
December 20th, 2014 at 10:01 am
The crab legs thing has been explained to me. It has been common knowledge that in the past, or at sometime in the past, seafood was free for the players at a particular Publix due to a particular manager.
Perhaps these patterns are not really patterns. We look for and find patterns sometimes when none are actually there.
December 20th, 2014 at 10:27 am
Expect the university’s ruling to come this week on the code of conduct hearing. Jameis & Jimbo already know the ruling and it will clear Jameis of all charges.
Of course that won’t change a thing for the haters. The poster here calling himself “Greg Schiano” will still refer to Jameis as a serial rapist. Won’t change a thing
December 20th, 2014 at 10:47 am
Still a pattern of maturity and conduct issues that has nothing to do with racism and haters. There are thousands of wonderful student athletes that are black that never make the news for bad conduct even once much less multiple times. He may grow up and be a wonderfull person and I hope that is the case. For now people are right to have concerns about his off field issues.
December 20th, 2014 at 11:33 am
The question the article is asking is why all the hate for Winston yet no hate for Zach. One guy is guilty of a criminal offense and the other is not guilty of any criminal offense. Yet one is a villan the other just made a mistake no big deal.
Its a great point.
December 20th, 2014 at 11:44 am
They hate him because he’s winning, he’s smiling, and because of his skin tone.
Winston is a winner and I want him.
December 20th, 2014 at 12:54 pm
I have posted on “Jameis Watch” several times, every one of my posts has had close to the same theme…Jameis throws too many int’s for my liking and I don’t think that it is going to get any easier for him in the NFL. Never once have I said anything about off the field issues, and I’m not going to start now. I do think it is complete BS that now, according to Joe, if you don’t like Jameis as a qb, that makes you a racist. Screw you Joe.
December 20th, 2014 at 1:13 pm
ZACH HAS CONFESED AND MADE AMENDS, WINSTON NEVER WILL, THE DIFFERENCE IS ACCOUNTABILITY, HONEST VS> DISHONEST
December 20th, 2014 at 1:20 pm
Jameis won’t play for the Bucs. He knows which teams he has a chance to succeed with. Lovie will never draft him. So like the Manziel want, those who want Winston are going to be upset.
December 20th, 2014 at 3:51 pm
Cannon Fire Says:
December 20th, 2014 at 1:13 pm
ZACH HAS CONFESED AND MADE AMENDS, WINSTON NEVER WILL, THE DIFFERENCE IS ACCOUNTABILITY, HONEST VS> DISHONEST
Why would he, Winston, confess to something that did not do?