Praying Mantasy

Is this you on Football Eve? We understand.

If you are anything like I am - well hung and into football - then Football Eve is a funny day for you. It is like Christmas, or a childhood birthday party, only the outcome is less certain. Are you going to get that latest video game? The cool new toy have been asking for? Well, if it was your birthday, probably. But on Football Eve, men of the Mantasy Way go to sleep unsure of what the morning and afternoon will hold. On top of finding the spread on the Giants/Panthers game totally unsettling (the Giants are the biggest favorite of the week), it is the first step in uncovering the fantasy truth that so many have claimed to have. Sometimes, on Football Eve, while sleeping lightly as my heart flutters nervously, I have vivid dreams; I have crazy dreams.

It may be a tough night. Hang in there.

Last year, I dreamt that I overslept, missing the one o'clock games and getting to a T.V. for the second half of the fours. I recall a consuming desperation as I searched for and logged into a computer. When I pulled up my team, LaSackslison (sound it out, great name), I found that Larry Johnson had 213 yards, Brandon Jacobs had 3 touchdowns and, LaDainian Tomlinson was well on his way to a rushing title. Of course, this was just a dream and L.J. would not double that total on the season. Still, it was a great dream. In fact, even though I did not yet have the terminology, I know now that it was my Mantasy.

Tonight, when I fall drunkenly to sleep, I hope to have a dream similar to last year's. Besides, if I can not fashion such a reality in my subconscious, how can I ever hope to watch it happen on Sunday after I wake up, buy some coffee and head to my favorite bar, George Keeley. So dream on, my Mantasy brethren. Enjoy the final slumber before the dreams are actualized and/or crushed. Remember, throughout the day, you are likely going to say that you hate football several times, but all is not lost if things go sour. Stay strong. Good luck.

Stay focused, man.