The Casual Fan

Considering how UVA basketball (and athletics, in general) has been a complete letdown in 2008, I found myself deeply engaged in the Clemson/UNC game last night. Being a 'casual fan' of other ACC teams (essentially, close and competitive games) my small piece of knowledge, and the ability to root candidly and honestly, makes me extremely dangerous.

1.) I wanted UNC to win (60/40) because:
c. Clemson losing after having a 15 pt. 2nd half lead would be soul-crushing
b. 0-53 sounds has a greater stigma than 1-52
a. I didn't want UVA to encounter a poked hornets nest UNC squad on Tuesday, after a monumental loss to the Tigers

2.) I expressed minor (40/60) sentiment for Clemson because;
b. A win in Chapel Hill would have unleashed celebration hysterics worth watching (a moot point, as the game was quickly cut-away to get to Wizzz)
a. The referees were handing the game to UNC (+20 FT discrepancy)

99% of fans would claim it is weak to weigh allegiances during a game, but it is certainly a phenomena we've all experienced. Who hasn't. Fandom, in neutral games, shouldn't be a binary endeavor. No shame should come from weighing the options. If I'm stuck in traffic, I'll opt for an alternative route, sacrificing a scenic drive to expedite my commute.

Elsewhere:

1. Great golf at the AT&T. The escape from the bunker by Steve Lowery on 9 was (presumably) the best shot I'll see all year. It was eclipsed by Vijay Singh in the next pairing. Really enjoyed watching SL win the tournament, always good for a journeyman pro, but SL in contention = excitement.

2. PGA Tour wonks are quick to quip the Tour's elite (save Tiger) are failing to win tournaments in 2008, which is extremely near sighted. Credit should be given to the actual winners, which include a 31 by Tiger over the final 9 holes (Dubai), a -10 thru 15 hole stretch and birdie in the playoff by SL, and 350 yard drives and birdie-birdie finish by JB Holmes at the FBR. Great start to the 2008 season.

3. Missed a chance to see Obama speak at TC Williams HS down the street. Very disappointed.