What we learned in the NFL in weeks 3 and 4

Weeks’ 3 and 4 were full of surprises in the NFL. Some teams looked to rebound and did so. Others goal was to make a statement. Some teams got exposed in the past two weeks, and yes some times were still trying to get that first win. We are now 1 quarter through the season after Week 4. There is still a lot of football left to be played. But here is what we learned about the 32 teams the past two weeks.

American Conference 

• Baltimore Ravens-The Ravens beat the Browns by a field goal in what was a thriller of a game. In week 4 the Ravens had their offense going and their defense was going good as they stopped North Carolina’s running game. Right now the Ravens are looking like they might be a playoff team
• Cincinnati Bengals-The Bengals destroyed the Tennessee Titans in Week 3 their high powered offense is scoring lots of points and their defense has been amazing so far. The Bengals had an off week in week 4, but they are looking like they are the team to beat in their division.
• Cleveland Browns-The Browns lost a heart breaker in week 3 losing to the Ravens. The Browns have been scoring more points this year and are not getting blown out in games.  The Browns probably won’t finish with a winning record but they are an improved team.
• Pittsburgh Steelers-The Steelers won in week 3 but then lost to Tampa in week 4. This team is inconsistent one week they look good the next week they look horrible. The offense is okay but the defense has work to do.
• New England Patriots-The Patriots won in week 3 but got clobbered in week 4. It looks like age might be catching up to New England. Still a good team overall not sure if they are as dominant as they have been in years past
• Miami Dolphins-The Dolphins were a wreck in week 3 getting blown out 35-14. In week 4 they rebounded nicely. Miami if they are going to contend need more consistency as this team has talent to be more than a 500 team
• Buffalo Bills-The Bills lost both of their games in week 3 and week 4. The defense was good but the offense could not score enough runs to get the team a win. If Buffalo is going to make a statement they need to get more points
• New York Jets-The Jets have a good defense but or not scoring points on the board. It seems like the Jets are having quarterback trouble again. Right now the Jets are playing horrible and some are calling for a coaching change
• Indianapolis Colts-Despite a shaky first week the Colts have been destroying opponents. The Cold’s defense seems to have gotten its act together.
• Houston Texans-The Texans got blown out in Week 3 but barely won in week 4. Yes they have passed last year’s win total. But I am not sure if their offense is going to be able to score to win.
• Jacksonville Jaguars- The Jaguars have not won a game yet and they are not scoring points to make it interesting. The past two games the Jaguars have scored less than 18 points. The Defense the past two weeks has given up 40 or more points. Jacksonville does have some talent but this is not a good team yet.
• Tennessee Titans-The Titans got blown out in Week 3 only scoring 7 points. In week 4 they got blown out again. This team has so many flaws it is shocking they have a win. The Titans should be better but right now looks like they will have to battle Jacksonville for the Cellar in their division
• Denver Broncos-Denver had its first loss of the season in week 3 to the Seahawks. The Broncos despite losing looked good in their game and still look to be the team to beat in the West. They were off in week 4
• San Diego Chargers-The Chargers won in both week 3 and 4. This team is better than last year’s playoff team. The offense needs to be more consistent but their defense is making it interesting.
• Kansas City Chiefs-After a first shaky two weeks the Chiefs have come alive. The offense has scored more than 35 points in the past two weeks. The defense is not up to par but has been getting the job down.
• Oakland Raiders– The Raiders have not gotten a win yet. This is not a good team the offense is horrible and the defense is a wreck. Jacksonville has some talent on its roaster but Oakland has yet to put talent on the field.

National Conference 

• Green Bay Packers-The Packers lost in an upset in week 3 but rebounded to win in week 4. The Packers are very inconsistent one week they look like they are playoff material the next week they look not so good.
• Minnesota Vikings-The Vikings lost in week 3 in a blowout but in week 4 they won big. The Vikings are a lot like the Packers very inconsistent
• Chicago Bears-Like many teams in the NFC North the Bears score a lot in one week and the next week they hardly score at all. Chicago despite its flaws is still alive in the North
• Detroit Lions-The Lions won in week 3 and 4. The Lions are in first place in the NFC North. But their defense is winning them games not sure if they can keep it up
• Philadelphia Eagles-The Eagles won in week 3 but lost in week 4. Week 4 showed that teams with elite defenses can shut down the Eagles. The Eagles offense though has been the reason the Eagles are doing good scoring 35 or more points on average. But the Defense has been giving up close to that many points.
• Dallas Cowboys-are surprisingly 3-1 however like the Eagles their offense has been winning games.  The Defense needs work.
• Washington-Washington is a mess right now. The offense has had a major blow as RGIII has another injury. The defense cannot stop opposing teams from running. Right now Washington is not looking good
• New York Giants– After losing the first two weeks the Giants finally won in weeks 3 and 4. The receivers finally held on to Manning’s passes. Still though the Giants are a flawed team but in the east division everybody has a chance
• New Orleans Saints– The Saints are scoring and they should not have the record they have. But their defense is not stopping other team’s running games. The Saints are going to have to play better on defense
• Carolina Panthers-The Panthers started the first two weeks off great but have now lost two in a row. The defense has fizzled and while the offense is still scoring they can’t do everything. Still this team should still compete
• Tampa Bay-Tampa Bay lost big in week 3 but scored an upset win against the Steelers. The Offense and defense are flawed and this is still not a good team as of right now.
• Atlanta Falcons-The Falcons won in week 3 but lost in week 4. It is hard like so many in the South division to know what to expect. One week they play good the next they are terrible.
• Seattle SeaHawks-The SeaHawks won big in week 3 stinging Denver once again. This is a pretty solid team and no reason to think they won’t be playoff contenders. The Defense is amazing and the offense can put up points too.
• San Francisco-San Francisco blew a game in week 3 getting upset but rebounded in week 4. Week 4 showed that the 49ers are still a good defensive team. The Offense seems to be coming around too. Keep in mind San Francisco has started off slow the past two seasons
• Arizona Cardinals-Arizona is making a case that they are contenders. Their defense is amazing and probably as of right now up there with Seattle’s. However the offense though is going to have to score more than 20 points for Arizona to keep it up.
• St. Louis Rams-The Rams are playing their hearts out but coming up short in a lot of their games. This is a young team with talent but what is hurting them is injuries. Their QB for a second year in the row is out with knee surgery and it has hurt this team’s offense. With a division that has Seattle, San Francisco and now Arizona it is hard to see them winning more than 7 or 8 games.

Breakdown of the Divisions 

• AFC North-The AFC North is shaping up to be a tough division. The Bengals are so far being the team to beat, but Baltimore has been playing good the past 3 weeks. Cleveland looks to make it interesting. The Steelers though are trying to find answers.
• AFC East-For many years the East has been dominated by the Patriots but even the Patriots have shown age might be taking its toll. Miami has the potential but can’t get over the bump in the road. Buffalo is inconsistent and the Jets well are playing horrible. The East may not be as dominant as it has been
• AFC South- The South is interesting. The Colts have been the dominant team so far and look legit. Houston I’m not sure about they have looked good but at times not. The AFC South though has two horrible teams in it right now Tennessee and Jacksonville.  It seems like nobody in this division accept for the Colts can score
• AFC West-The West might just be the best team in the AFC. In fact this division could send 3 teams to the playoffs Denver is great and San Diego has really improved from last year. Also do not count out the Chiefs. Oakland well lets forget Oakland plays in this division
• NFC North– Okay nobody has really emerged as the front runner in this division. The Packers have dominated this division the past several years but they are not looking so good. Minnesota has improved but are very inconsistent. Chicago and Detroit are all inconsistent. All 4 teams are inconsistent and this race for the North crown might come down to the last week
• NFC East- Okay if you thought the North was inconsistent then the NFC East is in a class of its own. Not one team in this division has a good defense. The games have been very close winning by 7 points or less in high scoring games. Teams with elite defenses often give the eastern teams trouble.
• NFC South– So far no team has emerged as the front runner in this division either. The Saints can’t stop running games. Atlanta looks good and looks bad. Tampa got its first win but time will tell if they have turned the corner. Right now it looks like Carolina is the team to beat here and they at times look very good and other times not.
• NFC West-The NFC West might just be the best division as the AFC west is in the AFC. Three teams have elite defenses. Seattle, San Francisco and Arizona. In fact this Division has the potential to send 3 teams to the playoff’s. This Division is also very tough and it could be that the team that finishes last will be 8-8

My take on the SEC in week 5

Week 5 in the SEC featured more conference play. In week 5 a lot teams tried to make statements against their division rivals. As we are getting deeper in to conference play we are learning a lot about the teams. So here is my take on Week 5

• Alabama-Alabama had an off week after their big win in Week 4. Alabama better be practicing for their game against the high powered offense of Ole’ Miss.
• LSU-LSU after getting upset by Mississippi State in week 4 bounced back against non conference team New Mexico State. LSU will have its hands full as they play Auburn next week
• Auburn– Auburn destroyed Louisiana Tech and seemed to have their offense back on track. Auburn has a big showdown against LSU.
• Texas A&M- Texas A&M was really tested this week by Arkansas finally winning in overtime. It is still a Win but it showed A&M is beatable and it shows that their defense needs work. They will play Mississippi State next week which should be a high scoring game
• Ole’Miss– Ole’ Miss cruised to a win against non conference team Memphis. Ole’ Miss will have its hands full next week as they play Alabama. However this is a different Alabama team from the past 7 years that is not as sharp. This is Ole Miss’s time to shine
• Mississippi State– Mississippi State had an off week. But Mississippi State will play Texas A&M next week. Mississippi State beat LSU and look to make a statement against A&M.
• Arkansas- Arkansas came so close to getting their first conference win but lost in overtime. Arkansas is showing they are not an easy win as they took A&M to the limit.
• Georgia-Georgia beat rival Tennessee by 3 points. Georgia’s offense looked great. However the defense oh the defense is a pain to watch. For the 4th straight game they have allowed 32 or more points. If Georgia is going to aim high this year they need a better defense
• Florida-Florida enjoyed an off week but they have a crucial schedule coming up. They play Tennessee, Georgia, South Carolina and later Missouri soon. If Florida does not win a few of these games look for a coaching change to occur. According to sports sites fans and some school boosters are grumbling about the coaching. Florida’s offense is in ruins and the defense that was supposed to be great has given up 35 points or more in the last two games.
• Missouri-Missouri beat rival South Carolina in a thriller winning by 1 point. Missouri’s offense is great but the defense is not terrible but not good either. Still Missouri showed they will not be denied in the Eastern Division
• South Carolina– South Carolina almost won their game against Missouri. South Carolina’s defense despite  the Texas A&M game has looked good. The problem is the offense is going to need to score more than 20 points to be a division title contender
• Vanderbilt-Vanderbilt keeps beating themselves and they have almost knocked themselves out of going to a bowl game. The defense is bad and the offense is just not scoring.
• Tennessee-Tennessee lost against Georgia by 3 points. However Tennessee is not getting blown out in games like they have been in the past  years. This is a team that is much improved and they are giving teams a run for it. Tennessee should win at least 6 games and get to a bowl game for the first time in 5 years.
• Kentucky-Like Tennessee Kentucky is no longer getting blown out in games and seen as an easy win. They got their first conference win for the season. Kentucky came so close to beating Florida. Kentucky if they keep playing decent should get at least 6 wins.

So we are learning a lot about the teams. Some teams look like they can be vulnerable and other teams are improving. Some teams like Ole Miss and Mississippi State are emerging and are looking to make statements. Unlike  in years past there does not appear to be a clear team in the drivers seat  in the West or East Division. Alabama, Auburn, and LSU have not looked dominant in the West like they have in the past 7 years. Georgia has not looked l good this year, though they are winning, and yet they are very much alive in the Eastern Division race. The next couple of weeks will tell us more and answer the question can a #1 contender for the West and East Divisions emerge.

Why there has been a lack of tropical Systems

Late Summer and Fall is often the peak of the Atlantic Hurricane Season. In an average year 11 named storms will form in the Atlantic Ocean with 6 becoming hurricanes and 2 reaching major hurricane status (categories 3, 4 and 5). The most active months are August, September, October, and sometimes November can be active.  The reason late Summer and Fall is the peak of the hurricane season is due to several factors. August through October is when water temps in the Atlantic are at their peak, wind shear is usually light and the air is moist. November can also have these variables, but storms that form in November usually form and are limited  to the  Caribbean Region.

Here are the average number of storms that form per month of the Hurricane Season, which runs from June 1st to November 30th

• June averages o storms. However June has had its share of tropical storms and hurricanes
• July averages 1 named storm
• August averages 2 named storms and usually the first hurricane forms in this month
• September averages 4 named storms, in an average year the first major hurricane forms
• October averages 3 named storms, and usually the last major hurricane forms
• November averages 1 named storm.
• It should be noted that since 1950 every month has had a major hurricane

Another thing that measures tropical activity is the accumulated cyclonic energy rating (ACE). In an average year an ACE rating will be between 90-100. ACE to make it simple looks at the storms’s intensity and how long storms  last.

In late September early October of the 2014 hurricane season the Atlantic Ocean has only had 5 named storms, 4 have become hurricanes and only 1 (Edouard) has reached major status. So far the year’s ACE value is 36. Normally by now we should have had our 7th or 8th named storm  and  our ACE value should be over 60 this time of the year. The 2014 season has been below average in tropical system development. So what is causing a below average hurricane season?

The answer is the Atlantic Ocean has been and continues to be under the influence of El Nino. El Nino is when the Equatorial Pacific water temps are at least 0.5 degrees Celsius or more above average for at least 3 months. La Nina is when the Equatorial Pacific water temps are -0.5 degrees Celsius  or colder below normal for 3 months. Neutral is when water temps are -0.5 to 0.5 degrees  Celsius from normal. So far the past 4 months the Equatorial Pacific temps have been running 0.7 degrees Celsius above normal indicating an El Nino has formed.  The average water temp in the Equatorial Pacific is 28.3 degrees Celsius (83 degrees). The latest charts  show the water temp has increased to 29 Celsius (84 degrees).

El Nino patterns cause the Atlantic water temps to be cooler, increased wind shear and increase of  dry air. The Pacific on the other hand has higher water temps, less wind shear, and moist air. Tropical storms and Hurricanes need warm water to form at least 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees) or higher. In addition tropical systems need light wind shear, and very moist air to develop. So far the Atlantic Ocean water temps off the coast of Africa have been cooler than average. Right now they are running about 26-27 degrees Celsius (79-80 degrees). However the bigger story has been the increased wind shear, which is tearing possible tropical systems apart. Also the Atlantic Ocean has had a lot of dry air which has inhibited thunderstorms from spinning up into tropical systems.

Only one storm (Edouard) has formed off the coast of Africa. The other 4 storms have formed close to the Gulf stream which has had average water temps. The last two recent El Nino’s are good examples of how  El Nino patterns suppress tropical system development. In 1997, which was a strong EL Nino, 8 named storms formed, 3 became hurricanes, and 1 reached major status. The 1997 ACE rating was 40.13. In 2009 another significant EL Nino formed. In 2009 there were 9 named storms, 3 became hurricanes and 2 reached major status.  The ACE rating for 2009 was 52.61.

Now recent years 2008, 2010, 2011, and 2012 were under the influence of La Nina or Neutral patterns. La Nina and Neutral patterns cause warmer than average temps in the Atlantic Ocean, light wind shear, and very moist air. These years the hurricane activity was way above Average. In 2008 16 named storms formed, 8 became hurricanes, and 5 reached major status. The 2008 ACE rating was  144.8. Notable storms in 2008 where Gustav, Ike, and Paloma. In 2010 19 named storms formed, 12 became hurricanes, 5 became major hurricanes, and the ACE rating was 165. Notable storms in 2010 were Igor and Tomas. In 2011 19 named storms formed, 7 became hurricanes, 4 reached major status and the ACE rating was 126. 2011 produced a notable storm in Irene. In 2012 19 named storms formed, 10 became hurricanes, 2 reached major status, and the ACE rating was 133.  In 2012 the notable storm was Sandy.

So El Nino is really keeping tropical systems from forming. Now we still have October and November to go in the season. So chances are a few more storms will form. But right now EL Nino is keeping tropical systems from forming. Even during below average seasons people that live on the coasts should not let their guard down. It only takes 1 storm to make it a bad year. A good example was in 1983. In 1983 a very strong El Nino caused a way below average hurricane Season. Only 4 named storms formed  throughout the season. However 1 storm was a complete disaster for Texas. In 1983 Hurricane Alicia made landfall as a category 3 hurricane in the Houston Metro area. Alicia caused $3 Billion dollars in damage to Texas. Another example was in 1992. 1992 was a quite year for tropical development. However one hurricane made it a bad year for the United States. In 1992 Hurricane Andrew made landfalls in Florida as a Category 5 hurricane with winds up to 165 mph and and Louisiana as a 120 mph category 3 hurricane. Andrew was very costly causing  $26.50 Billion dollars in damage.

We still have October and November to go through so people should not let their guard down. But due to an El Nino pattern we are not seeing as many tropical Cyclones.

SEC Conference Week 4

Many teams in the SEC conference started conference we play this week. Week 4 was full of surprises in the SEC. Some teams made a case that they will be a factor in the West and East Divisions. Week 4 showed us that the West and East division is still up for grabs. Furthermore, it showed us that not one team has emerged as the front runner in the two SEC Divisions.

• Alabama-Alabama rolled over Florida in a 42-21 blowout. However the concern for Alabama is the offense fumbled three times. Alabama will have its big test when they play Ole’Miss
• LSU-LSU’s offense was okay coming so close to winning the game against Mississippi State. However the LSU defense was not very good and could not stop Mississippi State’s passing game. LSU’s defense, which is mostly freshmen has work to do.
• Auburn– Auburn won their game against non conference team Kansas State. However, Auburn never got their passing game established and struggled to a 20-14 win. Auburn showed they will have problems against teams with elite defenses
• Texas A&M-A&M just keeps scoring and scoring. Their win was against a non SEC team, but they already have a win against a SEC team. A&M’s offense looks to be scary.
• Ole’Miss-Ole’Miss was off this week but next week they have a match against Alabama. Ole’Miss has shown in the past weeks they will be a factor
• Mississippi State-Mississippi State shocked LSU by winning. Mississippi State has really improved their offense was good. The defense needs work though as they about blew the game. Still this team looks much better than last year’s 7-6 team.
• Arkansas-Arkansas won big again though it was against a non conference team. However this team has a much improved passing and running game. Arkansas looks to win a few SEC wins to get to a bowl game.
• Georgia-Georgia won huge against their non conference opponent. But Georgia will have its hands full next week against a much improved Tennessee team.  Georgia’s offense is very good, but the defense has not been so good at times.
• Florida-Florida made the first half against Alabama interesting scoring 21 points. But could not get the offense going in the second half. Florida needs to score more points to win. If Florida does not win some games this year expect changes in the swamp
• Missouri-Missouri lack of defense finally caught up with them. The Missouri defense gave up too many plays and as such Missouri suffered a huge blow. The loss was against a non conference team so they could still win the East. But they have to get some defense
• South Carolina-South Carolina beat Vanderbilt but the problem was South Carolina did not pull away till the 4th quarter. South Carolina has huge problems with their defense as this is the 3rd time they have allowed 35 points or more.
• Vanderbilt-Vanderbilt almost made it interesting against South Carolina, but their defense could not hold. Vanderbilt now has a 1-3 record. They could still win 6 wins but it will be tough
• Tennessee-Tennessee was off this week. Tennessee starts conference play next week. The next few weeks will show how improved Tennessee is.
• Kentucky-Kentucky was off this week. Like Tennessee Kentucky is much improved this year almost beating Florida. The Question is can Kentucky win some SEC games. Something they did not do last year.

Public Education, Common Core and Autism

Disclaimer: By no means am I bashing teachers that try to accommodate their students nor am I trying to bash  good teachers. This is to show how the system is failing those of us on the spectrum.

I was talking to one of my friends today and she was telling me the challenges her son, who is on the spectrum, faces in public schools.  I was alarmed at what she was telling me and I find it to be pretty sad. She told me how the school system, her son attends, is making her son take the same standardized test the same way the non Autistic students do. She also showed me a picture that her son had to color for his homework. The colors were well balanced but the teacher wrote too messy. It made me think was this teacher targeting the student, because he is different and also is it the result of the system called common core.

I think in some ways it could be both. Some teachers do not know how to handle a student on the spectrum, more on that later. Common Core is very controversial and I think it is failing our students. Common Core makes student’s learn a certain way, solve problems a certain way, and makes students learn at the exact same pace. Now to some student’s that might not be a big deal. But  for those of us on the spectrum we have to learn at our pace. My friend told me before Common Core her son was doing well in school, because he could learn at his pace and he got his accommodations, which allowed him to do well. Common Core does not want students to have accommodations it wants special students to be able to learn the same way normal students do. May be I’m wrong but I find that to be violating the Disability Act.

Now, Common Core is not just hurting the Autistic students, but normal students as well. I remember when I was a grad student my professor telling me how he hated Common Core. He shared with the class how students that are just now entering college and are a product of Common Core are struggling. I remember him sharing how when students get to college they do not know how to write reports, and they are not ready for college material. The professor stated that did not start happening till Common Core was put into place. I have talked with my friends, who teach at universities, and I’m hearing the same thing.

I also read another story a few months ago that made my blood boil. In all states pubic schools can restrain an Autistic Student, and in 41 states schools can put Autistic Students in what is dubbed dungeon rooms. The dungeon rooms from what I have seen are tiny rooms that are isolated. Restraining an Autistic student is not only bad but it can be a health problem too. Often times Autistic Students who are restrained have injuries. In fact restraining can also make the student worse as it can cause more overwhelming for the student and cause a traumatic experience . Some schools just let the police deal with Autistic Students. When the police get involved it often has tragic results. For example, a few weeks ago a female student, who had Autism, had a meltdown. The police showed up restrained the girl and then after cuffing her slammed her face in the hood of the police car. The student was later released but had to be treated for lacerations and injuries to the face and hands.  Also 60-80% of police encounters with people on the spectrum end fatally.

I have also read several stories of Autistic students being expelled or whipped for having a meltdown. One thing is clear Common Core and the Public School system is failing those of us on the spectrum. I am a huge advocate for homeschooling. Studies have shown home schoolers are better prepared for college. I have also had friends that home school their children who have Autism and they are doing very well.

So what can be done in public schools.

• First of all I think we need to do away with restraining and dungeon rooms. These are not helping Autistic students, in fact they are more likely to be traumatized by restraining or dungeon rooms. When an Autistic students have a meltdown it is usually because of a sensory stimulus. Things that could trigger a meltdown are: sounds, lighting (especially CFL lightning that flickers),  temperature of room, and even smell of a classroom. One thing that bothers me is a lot of people think a meltdown is a tantrum. There is a huge different between a tantrum and meltdown. A tantrum is a response  to get something the child wants or to get attention. For example a child pitching a tantrum over wanting a toy. A melt down is a response to a stimulus such as food, temperature, lightning and sound.
• I think teachers need to be better trained on how to handle Autistic students. Like my friend shared with me it is obvious that teacher does not know how to handle her son. So many times teachers just want to throw the Autistic student in the dungeon and be done with it. As Autism is more common teachers need to be aware and trained how to handle special needs students. Teachers. instead of throwing the autistic student in the dungeon or restraining them. Work with the Autistic student and accommodate them. Try to find out what is causing the meltdowns and what the student is sensitive to; then work out a plan with the student or his and hers guardian.
• Also teachers if you have a special needs student please by all means to not target them. Like to not single them out every time to come work a math problem or call them out to answer a question. I have heard and read stories of bad teachers doing this. Also i think it would help if teachers did not try to dump the meltdown onto the police. I feel like the police should be called in as a last resort. In addition teachers need to understand that students learn different. A person with Autism may not learn the same way a non Autistic student learns, which I blame a lot of that on Common Core.
• I think we need to do away with Common Core. Common Core does not allow students to learn at their own pace and sets a pace that all students must learn at. This can be challenging for students who have Autism or learning disabilities. I also think we need to just throw Common Core away all together. When I was in school my teachers allowed me to learn at my own pace and as a result I did very well. Moreover, my teachers taught me there were several ways to solve a problem not just one way. I really like teaching that concept for several reasons. One, it allows students to explore a way that works for them. Two, it helps students develop problem solving skills. Third it allowed students to go at their own pace and solve problems. Under Common Core students are only being taught one way to solve a problem. By having students learn only one way it raises up the question. What are we teaching our students by saying they can solve a problem or answer a question a certain way instead of exploring other ways. Also under Common Core due to everybody having to learn at the same place special needs students are not getting their accommodations. It is important that students get their needs met so they can thrive and learn.

I hate to say this but it seems like public schools are hostile toward special needs students and it should not be that way. No special needs students should have to go into a classroom without accommodations. Also students should  not have to go into a classroom being afraid they are not going to learn, get left behind or targeted. I was fortunate that my teachers were accommodating to me. I only had two teachers that I can remember that seemed to target me because I was different. But I was in school before Common Core was put into place. I also was able to graduate high school and went on to earn college degrees. I earned my Associates, Bachelors, and later Masters. I would love and I want to see more Autistic students make it in college like I did. But unless things change, it saddens me to think that a lot of Autistic students may get left behind under the current system and fall through the cracks. The current school system is failing those of us on the spectrum and it is time for changes.

Take on the NFL week 2

The second week of the NFL season produced many surprises. It was had games that were thrillers and games that came down to the last few seconds. We also learned some more about the teams. So here is my take on week 2.

• Baltimore Ravens-The Ravens got back on track in their blowout win over Pittsburgh. Baltimore’s defense is good but the offense needs to play like it did against the Steelers.
• Cincinnati Bengals-The Bengals defense really stopped Atlanta’s running game. The offense is good too. So far the Bengals are looking like the team to beat in their division
• Cleveland Browns-Cleveland kicked a field goal in the last few seconds of the game to stun the Saints. This is a team that will not quit.
• Pittsburgh Steelers- Okay the Steelers looked like a wreck their offense could not get going and their defense could not stop Baltimore. Pittsburgh’s defense is not as sharp as it has been
• New England Patriots– After a first week loss New England was back to being New England in their blowout win against the Viks
• Buffalo Bills- Buffalo looks like they are getting a good offense going and the defense did a much better job this week
• Miami Dolphins– The Dolphins did not look anything like they did in their first game. Their offense was shut down and they had a hard time scoring against Buffalo??
• New York Jets-The Jets did make their game interesting but the defense fizzled in the second half
• Indianapolis Colts– The Colt’s offense is good the defense is not that great, but still they have a chance to overcome an 0-2 start
• Houston Texans-Already the Texans have matched last years wins. They are playing like they did in 2012
• Jacksonville Jaguars– Jacksonville has talent, but its bad when another awful team blows you away by scoring over 40 points
• Tennessee Titans– Much like Jacksonville Tennessee has talent but the not so great Cowboys was able to score. Tennessee does have the talent to still have a decent year.
• Denver Broncos- The Broncos are looking to be a powerful team. The offense is good and the defense looks to be good. Denver looks to establish themselves in the West
• Kansas City Chiefs-The Chiefs did make it interesting but the offense has not got going yet. That could spell trouble in the West.
• Oakland Raiders-The Raiders just can’t seem to get it together. Right now teams are scoring at will against their defense. The problem their offense has not made it interesting either.
• San Diego Chargers-The Chargers offense was how it was supposed to be. But their defense really showed up stunning Seattle.
• Green Bay Packers– Green Bay’s offense finally looked like it should have looked in the first game. But Green Bay has huge issues with their defense.
• Minnesota Vikings– The Vikings looked over matched in their blow out loss against New England. Wonder how their scandal will effect this team
• Chicago Bears-The Bears came from behind and stunned San Francisco. The offense is okay but the defense needs work
• Detroit Lions- The Lions did not look good this week. They only scored 1 touchdown and  their defense was overran.
• Philadelphia Eagles- The Eagles offense came through once again but the main question with the Eagles is their defense  needs to do a better job.
• Dallas Cowboys- The Cowboys won this week, but still this is a team that has too many questions on defense and offense.
• Washington– Washington won in a blowout but with injuries to RGIII and other stars how will that impact their season
• New York Giants-Please get Eli Manning some help
• New Orleans Saints– The Saints offense has been good in both games. But this team has no defense as they blew a lead over Cleveland and just like in Week 1 the defense can’t hold leads
• Carolina Panthers– The Panthers got Cam Newton Back the result a lot of scoring. Oh their defense is looking good too
• Tampa Bay- Tampa came so close in getting their first W. Their defense is good if only the offense could score more than 15 points in a game
• San Francisco– San Francisco was stunned in their loss to the Bears. San Francisco did have two games like this last year and still won more than 10 games. Probably just having an off day
• Seattle Sea Hawks- Seattle came back to earth losing to the Chargers. Seattle beat themselves with fumbles
• Arizona Cardinals– Arizona may have one of the best defenses in the NL as they are stopping team’s running games. The problem that could hurt them throughout the season is if you can’t expect to shut every team down. Basically they need to start scoring points
• St. Louis Rams– The Rams got their first win of the season. Still though this team has too many questions.

My take on the SEC conference week 3

Week 3 in college football has come and gone. In week 3 there were some upsets and surprises especially in the SEC conference. Some teams started conference play this week and others played non conference games. Still, week 3 gave us a lot of info on the SEC teams. So here is my take on the SEC teams for week 3

Alabama-Alabama cruised to a 52-12 against Southern Mississippi. Alabama’s big test comes next weekend as they start conference play. The Tide’s main issue is can they set on one quarterback

LSU-LSU looked decent against their 31-0 blowout win over Monroe. However LSU did not get going till the second half. LSU will need to play all quarters in conference play. The LSU defense though looks to be amazing

Auburn-Auburn had a week off but based on how they have played this year. Their offense is very good and will be a challenge to other SEC games. Their defense is still not a sharp unit so that is an area for improvement

Texas A&M-A&M destroyed Rice and their offense has been very aggressive. The defense  has even looked to have improved. But the test will be conference play, though they already have one SEC to their credit.

Ole’Miss– Okay Ole’Miss keeps getting better every week.  The offense was amazing in their blowout win over Lafayette. The defense looks to be coming together. If Ole’ Miss keeps this up having a 10 win season is possible

Mississippi State– Mississippi State also looks to be an emerging team in the loaded SEC west. They already have 3 wins the question is can they keep this up in conference play.

Arkansas-This is not the same team from last year. They beat a big 12 conference team Texas Tech. They scored 52 points despite giving up 28 points. Arkansas will not be an easy win. They look to win a few conference games and get to a bowl game.

Georgia-Georgia was stunned in a defeat by South Carolina showing the SEC East is going to be competitive. Georgia’s offense was good scoring 35 points. But Georgia’s defense was horrible giving up yardage and 38 points. If Georgia is going to win the East they need their defense to bring their A game

Florida-Florida oh Florida looked sloppy in their first SEC game against Kentucky. It took 3 overtimes to beat a Kentucky team. Florida if they are going to contend needs to solve issues quick.

Missouri-Missouri has been looking good as their offense is a strike quick type offense. The defense has its issues. Missouri is making a case that they are in the East Division hunt

South Carolina– South Carolina shocked Georgia putting their blowout loss to Texas A&M behind them. The offense is starting to take shape. The only thing that could hold South Carolina back is their defense. But with a W against Georgia they are in the title hunt.

Tennessee-Tennessee had its first lost in a blowout loss to Oklahoma. Tennessee got blown out and looked way over matched. However this team shows heart and will probably win at least 6 games. Winning 8 games is not out of the question.

Kentucky– Kentucky almost won their first SEC game in a while. Kentucky is showing they are an improved team. They still have a lot of work to do on defense but they are on their way up. Kentucky has the potential to win 6 or 7 games which should get them to a bowl game

Vanderbilt– Vanderbilt won a game in a very close game. Vanderbilt is not the same 9 win team last year. There defense struggles to hold other teams from scoring. That could spell trouble in the SEC

Take on the 2014 NFL Season Week 1

Football season is here and last week was the opening week for all 32 teams. Week one was full of surprises and we got to see how the teams look. They are 15 more games to play and 4 more months of football so a lot could change. However week one did teach us a few things

• Baltimore Ravens-The Ravens almost came from behind to beat the Bengals. Their defense looked good but their offense is not what it was a few years ago. Baltimore needs to score to win the defense can’t do everything
• Cincinnati Bengals-The Bengals looked great in their win against Baltimore. The offense was good and their defense looked real good
• Cleveland Browns-The Browns scored 24 points to tie the game with Pittsburgh before Pittsburgh kicked a game winning field goal.  The Browns are better but they probably won’t have a winning season this year. But hey the browns scored 27 points when was the last time they did that.
• Pittsburgh Steelers- The Steelers defense looked tired in the second half. It could be that Pittsburgh’s defense is starting to show its age. Not to mention they almost blew a 27-3 lead over the Browns.  Their offense though is real good so that will help them
• New England Patriots– The patriots were upset by the Miami Dolphins. Either the Patriots were having an off day or age has caught up with the Patriots .
• Buffalo Bills- The Bills stunned the Bears in their season opener. The bills played like they have potential but time will tell if Buffalo will be consistent
• Miami Dolphins– The Dolphins looked real good against the Patriots. The Dolphin’s defense shut down New England’s running game and scored 33 points against New England. Could this Dolphin team finally be playing to their potential?
• New York Jets-The Jets scored 19 points against an Oakland team. The Concern is that should have been a blow out win for them.
• Indianapolis Colts- The Colts almost made a comeback against the Broncos. The Colts passing game came up short but looked good. The defense was shaky but this looks to be a good team
• Jacksonville Jaguars- The Jaguars showed they won’t be easy wins for teams anymore. They gave Philadelphia a run for it for two quarters, but the Jag’s defense wore down in the last quarter.
• Houston Texans-The Texans won against Washington. But it was not a blowout win. Houston only scored 17 points against a at least on paper horrible Washington team. Remember this team went 2-0 last year than lost 14 in a row
• Tennessee Titans-The Titans scored 26 points against the much better on paper Chiefs. Meanwhile the Titans’s defense shut down Kansas City’s passing game. Could the Titans be better than one thought
• Denver Broncos– Denver looked great in their win. The Broncos offense was very good and their defense stopped the Colt’s high powered offense.
• Kansas City Chiefs– Kansas City did not look like the team that was really good last year. Kansas City struggled to score points and their defense looked horrible.
• San Diego Chargers- The Chargers defense was good in their loss to Arizona. The problem was the offense could not get their running game going
• Oakland Raiders- The Raiders Lost but they limited the Jets to 19 points. The Raider’s defense was playing good but is this team for real
• Green Bay Packers– The Packers had a humiliating loss to Seattle. Green Bay’s defense gave up 36 points. The offense looked horrible even with Rodgers being healthy. Green Bay did not look like the Green Bay  from the past 5 years
• Minnesota Vikings-The Vikings defense only gave up 6 runs while the offense scored 34 points. Could the Vikings be contenders this year hmmm
• Chicago Bears-The Bears looked great in the first half in their game against Buffalo. But the Defense could not hold the leads. Also the offense should have run over Buffalo but could not.
• Detroit Lions-The Lions looked better than they have in years past. On the other hand the Lions played a not so good team.
• Philadelphia Eagles-The Eagles scored a lot of runs but did not get going until the second half of the game. The Defense seemed to have trouble with the Jags. The Eagles are mostly an offensive team
• New York Giants-The Giants looked horrible. The offense was horrible and the defense was horrible. The Giants are in rebuilding mode
• Dallas Cowboys– The Cowboys were a wreck on the field. Their quarterback threw interceptions and could not get the offense going. The Defense seemed to have not shown up.
• Washington-Washington’s defense looked good only giving up 17 points. The bad the offense only scored 6 points
• New Orleans Saints– The Saints were stunned by Atlanta. The defense was horrible while the offense did their job.
• North Carolina Panthers- The Panthers do not have Newton due to injury So What. The defense kept Tampa’s offense in check and their offense was good enough to get a win.
• Atlanta Falcons-Atlanta won stunning the Saints. The offense looked good but their defense was not that good. They can’t count on getting lucky every week
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers– Tampa Bay’s defense looked okay but their offense still needs work. Still this team looks better than last years team
• San Francisco 49ers- The 49ers looked dominating in their win against Dallas. The offense was great and their defense looked good. The question is can they give Seattle a run for it
• Seattle SeaHawks-Seattle looked dominating in their win against Green Bay. They showed Green Bay why they are Super Bowl Champions. Their offense was going very good and their defense was dominating
• Arizona Cardinals– The Cardinals defense did their job against San Diego. The concern is if they are going to challenge Seattle and San Francisco they are going to have to score runs
• St. Louis Rams- The Rams looked lost in their blowout loss. You can tell this team has no answer at Quarterback since they have lost their staring Quarterback for the year again.

The SEC conference Week 2

It is now the second week in the college football season. Almost all of the SEC teams were back in action this week. Already week two is telling us a few things about some of the SEC teams. Anyway, here is what we have learned about the SEC teams in week 2.

• Alabama-Alabama made quick work of Florida Atlantic winning 41 to 0. Alabama’s offense was running on all cylinders in this game. However Alabama was still alternating between quarterbacks and they still had a few issues on back end. The Tide might be getting their act together but will need to iron out their issues as they start conference play real soon.
• LSU-LSU looked dominating in their blowout victory against Sam Houston. Their defense was very good and their offense was very good. No offense to Sam Houston, but they are a small school.  No matter though LSU is making a bold statement. Keep in mind this was a team that last years 10-3 season was seen as a disappointment.
• Auburn-Auburn had their passing and running game going against San  Jose State in a 59-13 blowout. Auburn might just have the best offense in the conference. The only thing  is Auburn’s defense got off to a slow start. Auburn will need to correct its defense issues before conference play begins. On the other hand this a team that has enough offense to win.
• Texas A&M– A&M is acting like they do not miss Manziel at all. Hill looks to be the real deal and has a super arm (his dad was a former big league pitcher by the way). Hill looks to power A&M. The defense needs work but A&M is better than thought. Their test will be going against conference teams who have good defenses.
• Ole’Miss-Last week Ole Miss’s offense did not get going until the 4th quarter. In week two they have corrected that problem. The Rebels made quick work of conference rival Vanderbilt in a 41-3 win. Ole Miss could be a sleeper in the conference.
• Mississippi State– Mississippi had their hands full with UAB until the 4th quarter. Mississippi’s game against UAB showed that their defense has not caught up with their offense. Mississippi eventually won the game 47-34. Mississippi needs a better defense if they hope to finish higher than 5th in the west division. Still this team is showing improvements from the 7-6 team from last year.
• Arkansas-After losing in the first week Arkansas bounced back this week. Arkansas finally won a game. This week’s win was significant because it ended a 9 game losing streak that goes back to last year. Arkansas is on its way back up. Their offense is looking better than the team that went 4-8 last year. However, it i hard to see them winning more than 6 games but they are not an easy win anymore.
• Georgia-Georgia had an off week, which could help the prepare against conference rival South Carolina. Georgia’s offense is good lets see if their defense can improve.
• Florida-The Gators ended a 7 game losing streak that went back to last year. Yes they beat a small school but the new look offense looked good in scoring 65 points. The defense looked good too. Florida starts conference play next week hmmm
• South Carolina-South Carolina got blown out against Texas A&M in the first week. The Second week South Carolina did not look good. East Carolina gave South Carolina a run for it. SC eventually won the game 33-23, but that was because they scored 10 points in the last few minutes of the game. Next week SC plays against Georgia. SC will have its hands full. It seems like SC is not looking like East title contenders. Then again SC has played sloppy before at the start of a season and still won 10 games. So we will see
• Missouri– Missouri scored 49 points in their blowout over Toledo. Missouri’s offense is really doing good. However just like week one the defense has issues. The defense did not shut down Toledo until the second half. In conference play a shaky defense can sometimes haunt a team especially going against offensive teams. Missouri has a great offense, but if they are going to make a run at another Eastern Division Championship they will need to clean up their defense.
• Tennessee-Tennessee is staring the season 2-0. However Saturday’s game showed that this team does still has some issues. They beat Arkansas state but it was not a blow out win. Still Tennessee’s 2-0 start is significant. It has been a while since Tennessee started 2-0. The Vols will be playing Oklahoma next week which  will be their test. Still this is a team that is on its way back up. Tennessee is on track to have its first significant season since 2007, when the team won 9 games in 2007.
• Kentucky- Kentucky already has tied last year’s win total at 2 wins. Kentucky’s 2 wins marks an improvement. But Kentucky starts playing in conference play which they have a brutal schedule. It is hard to see Kentucky winning 6 games this year. But Kentucky is better than last year’s 2-10 team. Kentucky’s goal this year is to try to win a few SEC games.

Autism and the Police

Disclaimer: This blog is not meant to bash the police as I know they are good cops that try to serve their community. The purpose of this blog is to raise awareness about Autism encounters with the Police and what both sides can do.

In the month of June I attended an Autism Conference, one of the things that was discussed was Autism and Police encounters. I was alarmed that most Autistic encounters with the police end in a fatality. The stats vary at the June  conference it was estimated at 80% of Autistic police encounters end in a fatality. In 2012 I was at another Autism Conference, which highlighted the issue more and the stat was 60% Police encounters with Autistics end up in a fatality. So,  between 60-80% encounters with the police end up in a fatality for the Autistic person. As a person, who has Autism, I find this to be alarming. It shows that a lot of police personnel are not trained to handle people on the spectrum. Most of these encounters are due to misunderstandings and it should not be that way.

A friend shared a recent story of a tragic police encounter. A young teenage Autistic boy was having a meltdown and shouting. A neighbor called the police. The police came and ran their siren. The loud noise frightened the boy and caused him to have a more severe meltdown. The police, were alarmed and as a result they tried to restrain the boy as well as jumping on him. The Boy fought  back as he thought he was being attacked  and  got away running into the woods behind his home. He was  eventually cornered and  shot by the police. The boys parents tried to tell the police their son was Autistic to no avail. The parents according to the story are suing the police department for manslaughter and a wrongful death suit. It was obvious the police had no training on how to handle people on the spectrum and thus this encounter ended tragically.

I was also reading a story were a elementary school child, who was Autistic was having a meltdown. The child was spinning in circles and screaming. The school called the child’s parents and the police. The police quickly jumped on the child. The child being scared even more started to kick. Eventually what happened was the police slammed the child on the hood of their car to take the child into custody. The parents again tried to tell the police their child was on the spectrum. The child was later let go but had to be treated for injuries due to being slammed on the hood as well as being restrained.

Earlier in the year police in Minnesota stopped an Autistic man. The police were originally going to ask the man questions. The flashing lights caused the man to go into a panic. The result was the man ran away from the police. The Police in returned gunned him down thus killing him. The police was heavily criticized and the story gained attention of disability rights advocates. Another example took place in Kansas, were a young adult with issues was shouting really loud. Neighbors called the police on the young man. Police entered the young man’s home thus shooting him while he was sitting on his couch without asking questions. Now, it should be noted it is not clear if the young man in Kansas had autism or not.

These stories are just a  handful  of how police encounters for those of us on the spectrum usually do not end well. What is sad is not many people talk about these stories. The only ones that do talk about them are disability rights advocates. These encounters are tragic and should not happen.  I have talked to parents , who have children on the spectrum, and they state this is their biggest fear. The fear is that their child will encounter the police and that the police will not know how to handle them.

So why do these encounters turn out the way they do? 

• Untrained cops– A lot of police are not trained to handle people on the spectrum as well as the disabled. A lot of police schools do not even talk about the disabled population in their training programs. A lot of times the police think when a person runs they are a criminal. Also when they come into contact with a person on the spectrum that is having a meltdown, the police think he or she is a violent person. The police think the person having a meltdown should be treated as a violent person resulting in injuries or death.
• Negative Stigma– Ever since the media ran their story on Autistic people being monsters waiting to snap it has lead to negative attitudes toward those of us on the spectrum. A lot of people hold negative views on Autistics. The normal population sometimes sees Autistic people as monsters who are violent. The negative stigma has caused teachers as well as neighbors to be afraid of those on the spectrum as a result  they call the police instead of trying to calm the person down.
• Hate– Its a cruel world and the Autistic community has to deal with a lot of hate. Most of the hate is due to the negative stigma that the media has created. However, it has always seemed that if you do not look or act a certain way you are not normal. If you are not normal you are seen as an outcast and thus hated. Some people have a hatred toward Autistic people that they do not care what happens to them. Sadly sometimes these same people wear badges.

What is being down and ways to improve to prevent tragedies

The 2012 Autism conference I attended also had police officers there. These officers had formed a group that works with other police officers in educating them about those of us on the spectrum.  The way the system works is if a cop encounters an Autistic person they call special officers, that have been trained for such encounters. The trained police officers help calm the Autistic person down as well as help the police communicate with the Autistic person and vice versa. These officers also run a training school that trains cops on how to handle people with disabilities as well as those on the spectrum. These police officers at the conference also shared how they work with police departments on getting training for officers as well as education. It seems that what these officers doing are working. They shared with us how they believe they have saved the lives of those on the spectrum and prevented another tragedy.

I was talking to a parent, who has a child with Autism, and she shared with me  what she does to hopefully prevent a tragedy. My friend’s child drives and she was worried her child would have an encounter with the police, who may or may not understand her child. She printed a card, that states I have Autism and sudden sounds bother me.  She told her child if he was ever stopped by the police to give the officer that card. She hopes it will let officers know that her child needs to be handled different and let the police know what is going on. I find that to be creative and a good idea.  I think it would be wise for all Autistic drivers to have a card like that. The percentage is unknown on how many people on the spectrum drive but it is believed to be 30-40%.

I also feel like the police need to educate themselves and realize that those of us on the spectrum are a part of the population. I think officers should listen to advocacy groups, disability rights groups and parents of children who are on the spectrum. I think the police need to do a better job of understanding those on the spectrum as well as do a better job of handling encounters.

However, I think people need to be more understanding before the police is called. Teachers, if you have a student that is sensitive to sound or lightning try to do your best to accommodate the student. If the student has a meltdown do not restrain the child or put them in a tiny room, like most schools do. Instead try to calm the student down and get them into a less stressful place. Then work out a sensory plan with the child and their caregivers. Neighbors, if you see a child screaming, spinning and pacing do not assume he or she is violent or crazy. Instead consider that the person might be having a meltdown due to a sensory stimulus. If you see an Autistic person wondering try to inform the child’s parents.

I also think the public needs to understand Autism more. The media needs to stop running stories about us being monsters. We are not monsters. We are a part of the population and should be treated right. I also want to say that were in general are not violent. When we have meltdowns it is not out of anger nor is it a tantrum. Our meltdowns are caused by stimulus such as smell, sound, lightning, and crowds.

Police encounters with the Autistic population do not need to end up in tragedy. If we all work together we can reduce the stats. We can also do a better job on working with those on the spectrum. We have a long way to go but these tragic events should not happen.

Cam

I am an Autistic adult who is also an Autism Advocate. My dream is that we that are Autistic will be accepted into society and no longer judged. I am also a Christian.