The annual pilgrimage to Punxsutawney, Pa. brings either delight or despair depending on the appear-ance of Phil's infamous shadow. Unfortunately, the groundhog's shadow was present yesterday, sadly predicting six more weeks of winter.
While weathermen scurry to confirm these "nature reports," Groundhog Day ushers in a yearly dilemma of its own, one that afflicts sports fans each and every February. With the exhilarating Australian Open finished and the mesmerizing Tour de France still five months away, what am I supposed to do with myself?
Okay, maybe that's not the specific dilemma, but the cold month of February marks a definite, (John) maddening lull between the NFL playoffs and college basketball's March Madness. For all of you similarly situated with induced apoplexy, here is a 12-step program of mine, intended to get you through the long days of this upcoming month.
First, you must realize and admit you have a problem. The Super Bowl, its commercials and Janet Jackson hijinks are over and behind us.
Second, even though the NCAA Tournament is what you are really craving, there are some worthy hoops appetizers before the main entrée is served in March. There are still two Duke-UNC matches to feast upon (including the first this Thursday) and a host of other top-10 clashes.
Third, if watching such games only makes you long for tournament time, then there is always the below-the-rim, women's game, full of set shots galore. With teams other than Tennessee and Connecticut competing for top billing, there are a few competitive contests that can get you through the month.
Fourth, if the battle at the top of the women's polls is still too reminiscent of March, then stick a little closer to home with the Virginia men's team. Big games against all of the top ACC teams still await the bubblicious Cavs.
Fifth, if you want to get away from the college game altogether, the NBA's All-Star Weekend is just around the corner. More exciting than any of its all-star counterparts, this hoops weekend of jams, jocks and jock jams is the February moment that will get you over the hump.
Sixth, for those of you in the Mel Kiper mold, preparing for the NFL draft may keep your mind occupied during the football offseason. Quick, what is Matt Schaub's time in the 40?
Seventh and similarly, football and basketball recruiting
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