Welcome back to the blog, everyone!

Before we recap the latest episode of television's best hour, a little administrative details about upcoming blog posts: for those wondering where the blog's NFL preview is, just sit tight a few days longer.  For now, I'm locking myself in my lair while I do copious amounts of research and Crunchwrap Supremes.  Starting September 1st, the official NFL preview will be released. Every day from the 1st until the opener on September 8th, new and vital information will be released to get you amped for 2010.  Until then, we will observe the Mets slowly bleed out and of course, watch with glowing eyes as Hard Knocks is presented before us. 

Speaking of which, let's get caught up with Jets training camp.  Episode two managed to be a step-up from the premier, as descriptive introductions were replaced by sweat, blood, and the occasional brewhaha.  Whereas the Darelle Revis situation consumed the premier, there was a ton of Mark Sanchez storylines this time around.  Taking leadership, goofing around, asking backup Mark Brunell about his daughter, etc.  My dad's (Giant fan) reaction after about 30 seconds of seeing the Sanchize: "this young guy sure is cocky, isn't he?"  Jets fans have a fair concern over Sanchez's sophomore performance, but one thing for certain is that confidence shall not be a problem...

Of course, the Revis contract squabble had to make some kind of appearance this week.  Luckily for everyone, they used the storyline to introduce the other defensive backs on the team.  Kyle Wilson was a first round pick out of Boise State and already seems cozy and comfortable in the system.  Then the world was introduced to the Grand Daddy of 'em all: Antonio Cromartie.

As Cromartie rattled off the list of children he's fostered, the viewer actually goes through three reactive stages.  After he names the first three kids, the introductory reaction is, "Wow, quite a family."  As he moves on to the middle stages of his family, the reaction moves on to a more appalled state.  Finally, as he names his final few (and it's absolute torture for him trying to remember their names and ages) the appalled reaction stays there, but with a hint of guilty hilarity.  We have to believe that these kids are getting their help and support...but Cromartie naming his 'family' was certainly one of the more shocking fifteen minutes of the young season.

Some other blips to the episode:

• Rookie Joe McKnight and his epic struggles to move from USC on to Gang Green.
• Special team coach Mike Westhoff's ability to be the best special team coach in the NFL despite his ongoing battle with cancer.
• The Jets' preseason opener against the Giants going great for the first team, but horrendous for the backups.  Rex was in a fury after the game because some guys that he wants to play often this year completely embarrassed themselves. 

Speaking of Rex, there is no doubt that the cursing was way, WAY down from the premier.  It appears he is making nice on the promise to his mother that he would tone it down.  But any more performances like the 31-16 loss to Big Blue, that promise is sure to be short-lived...


Thanks a lot for reading, everyone.