Sunday Soiree

With the falling leaves and shorter days, it's only natural to want to bundle up inside and hide from the Fall weather. Though the colder months bring hibernation to an all-time high, the holiday seasons also hold host to the best part of the year: football season. Luckily for sports nuts like myself, Fall is a time for football overload (if there is such a thing). Whether you're head-over-heels in love with the sport, or forced to watch due to a man in your life, football should be a fun time for all. 

If you're a girl who loves to channel her inner Martha Stewart, all while sporting a jersey and rooting on your team, this post is for you. Not into cooking? Don't worry—that's what the grocery store is for. Not into football? Don't stress—think of this as a time to perfect your party planning.

Here is what you'll need for a fabulous football soiree this Fall:

Mini Crescent Dogs

To get guests cozy before game time, these Mini Crescent Dogs are an appetizer sensation. What's a game without a hot dog anyways? Don't worry if you're the non-domestic type—these come premade in the frozen section as well.

photo via Table Spoon

Spinach Dip

Don't let the vegetarians starve while serving the dogs. Having a non-meat selection as well can't hurt, and who can resist a dip? Whip up the Slow-Cooked Spinach Dip (which merits a healthy tag with the spinach, right?). Premade dips are available at the deli for you beginners. 

photo via Food Network

Sliders

While football games last for several hours, party goers will most likely be ravished by half-time. Stick to the game theme and serve sliders for a thumbs up from all. These Kobe Sliders are a classic hit with a twist. It's not a bad idea to also offer Baby Portobello Sliders for the herbivors. Can't cook to save your life? Order different kinds of subs from your favorite sandwich spot.

Kobe Sliders

photo via Food Network

Baby Portobello Sliders

photo via Vegetarian Times

Beer Margaritas

Want to sip on something fun but not completely obsessed with the bloat of beer? These girly yet game-appropriate Beer Margaritas are sure to satisfy both sexes. To make the drinks less frilly for the boys, serve in a standard pint glass. Too lazy for the combo of alcohol? Buy boxed beer and call it a day. I don't think the guys will mind.

photo via Food Network

Appetizers, check. Hearty meal, check. Drinks, yup. Only one thing left—dessert, baby!

Cookie Truffles

Serve these super cute Football Cookie Truffles before the guests go. Chocolate, cookie crumbs, cream cheese—ahhh—is your mouth watering yet? Wrap up with these and your guests will deem you the BEST. HOST. EVER. Not a homemaker? Grab a dessert from your groceries bakery (pretending that you spent hours slaving away is totally up to you). 

photo via Cuisinart

Now you are completely set for a perfect Sunday indoors. Prep as much as you can the night before so you can enjoy your guests and of course the game. 

Hopefully this season you can learn to love football if you don't already. And if you're not there yet, at least enjoy the yummy meals (and babes) that come with the sport. Happy serving and don't forget your jersey!

Latest Lines

The past week of sports was one for the books. With a nail-biting end to the World Series, football upsets and extra drama in the celeb-athlete couple department, there were lots of things to see. Here is a wrap up of the week in case you were a little too busy trick-or-treating.

1. Kim Kardashian and baller hubby Kris Humphries called it quits after 72 days of marriage. With a wedding bill of at least $10 million, that equals $138,888 a day of newlywed bliss.

2. In other celeb gossip, Jessica Simpson finally made her pregnancy official after weeks of speculation from the tabloids. Jess is engaged to ex-NFL player Eric Johnson, and she waited for Halloween to make the "mummy" announcement.

photo via MTV

3. Moving on to the NFL. After another exciting weekend in football, the New Orleans Saints and New England Patriots suffered big losses, with the 49ers and Steelers looking strong. (Yes, my Chargers totally blew it as well, but I'll skip that.)

4. The World Series came down to seven games (something you don't see too often) and the St. Louis Cardinals took the champion honors this year.

 photo via Fox News

5. St. Louis Cardinals' manager, Tony La Russa, who is one of the most respected names in the major leagues, called it quits after bringing home another World Series ring.

6. New York Yankees pitcher CC Sabathia signed on for a one-year $25 million contract, to potentially stay in pinstripes until 2017 (and to possibly receive a total of $142 million!).

7. Bitter California rivals from USC and Stanford went head-to-head in a huge college football game, with Stanford coming out on top, 56-48.

photo via LA Times

Now that the MLB season is over for the year, stay tuned for lots of trades and big-money contracts.

Big Screen Babes

One of the best things about sports flicks (and TV shows) are the uber babes that grace the screen, playing out their inner athlete fantasy. From baseball cuties to mature men, take a look at some of the most desirable fake athletes to light up our screens.

Taylor Kitsch as Tim Riggins, Friday Night Lights (TV Show)

By far the hottest thing to walk planet Earth, Taylor Kitsch played bad boy Tim Riggins in one of the most epic TV series of all time.

photo via Knoxville

Kyle Chandler as coach Eric Taylor, Friday Night Lights (TV Show)

Though Kyle Chandler may be more of a catch for a mom than myself, something about his family-man, tough-coach persona gets my vote.

photo via Washington Post

Mark Wahlberg as Micky Ward, The Fighter

There is nothing this man can do that isn't over the top sexy—including boxing. Mark plays an underdog in one of my favorite movies of the decade and he does it well.

 photo via MPG

Channing Tatum as Jason Lyle, Coach Carter

Another one of the world's finest, Channing is known for playing confident, gorgeous athletes, and in Coach Carter he does not disappoint.

photo via Mediablvd

Paul Walker as Lance Harbor, Varsity Blues

Back when Paul Walker was a baby he played a Texas QB, charming the screen with his perfect smile and baby blues. 

 photo via Cinema Source

Matthew Davis as Matt Tollman, Blue Crush

Remember this bombshell from the chick flick Blue Crush? He may have been a one-hit wonder, but what a hit it was.

photo via All Movie Photo

Freddie Prinze Jr. as Ryan Dunne, Summer Catch

This brings me back to my obsession with him in my early years, as he was a token crush for any girl in the late '90s. Although this movie wasn't one for the books, Freddie sure made up for it.

photo via All Movie Photo

So next time you're about to pop in a DVD with your man (or without), agree with a sports theme and enjoy these lovely leading men.


Also, please VOTE once a day, everyday. 

Moneyball Premiere

Stranded with no plans on this glorious Friday? No sweat. One of the most anticipated (and sports friendly!) movies of the year makes it debut today and it's the perfect way to start off your weekend.

It's the true story of the broke Oakland A's in the early 2000's and general manager Billy Beane's unique out-of-the-box attitude. The movie has been getting great reviews and critics are even throwing the "Oscar" word around.

Not into sports flicks but your guy is? Here are a couple reasons why you won't be disappointed with Moneyball.

1. The main character is played by the one and only Brad Pitt.

photo via Just Jared

(OK, I know he doesn't quite look like this anymore, but he's still majorly hot.)

2. The newly fit Jonah Hill brings his charming humor to the screen.

 photo via Zimbio

Though he claims this movie is a lot different than his usual roles, he says there are still laughs to be had.

I'm not even a huge movie fan and I plan on spending part of my weekend devoted to this film—popcorn and Milk Duds included, obvi.

Enjoy your weekend! (And don't forget to set your fantasy teams and to spend your Sunday with the NFL.)

Cosmo Clue:

Moneyball comes out today!

Read everything Moneyball and find showtimes here.

Fashion Forward

Fashion Week rolled through NYC last week, and though there were a fair share of socialites and actors filling the showrooms, there was also a hefty amount of athletes taking it all in.

Whether they were there for the beautiful models, the publicity or they're serious fashionistas, jocks crowded the runway this season in New York.

From NBA stars to tennis champs, here are some athletes who lined up for the next greatest trend.

Miami Heat's LeBron James

photo via Getty

Miami Heat's Dwyane Wade (left)

photo via Getty

New York Knicks' Carmelo Anthony

photo via Getty

Figure skater Johnny Weir (left)

photo via Getty

Free-agent NBA player Kris Humphries (and the always stunning Kim K)

photo via Getty

And a female athlete looking gorg, Serena Williams

photo via Getty

I wonder what trend these players will be sporting this fall?

Cosmo Clue:

Athletes love fashion too.

Extra ESPY Awards

Like I mentioned in this post, the ESPYS (aka the sports version of the Oscars) took place last week in LA. Hopefully you were able to catch the show and drool over the eye candy walking the red carpet, but for those of you who missed out, a little awards of my own...

Best Looking Celebrity, Male

Ryan Reynolds, actor

Nothing, and I mean nothing can beat this face/body/everything.

photo via Ryan Reynolds Gallery

Best Looking Celebrity, Female

Brooklyn Decker, model & actress (also married to tennis star Andy Roddick)

This model turned actress might be one of the only people on earth able to rock red leather.

photo via FashionFame

Best Looking Athlete, Male

 Matt Kemp, LA Dodgers

Usually I don't go for anything-Dodgers, but the baseball star sure cleans up nicely.

photo via IB Times

and Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers

Can he get any cuter? Nope.

photo via Toronto Sun

Best Looking Athlete, Female

Lindsey Vonn, US Ski Team racer

The Olympic skier looked bangin' in her sparkled mini.

photo via Cronica Sportiv

Most Out of Place

Justin Bieber & Selena Gomez, entertainers

Biebs and his babe might have nothing to do with sports, but a few athletes did announce they had fallen for Bieber Fever.

photo via Beliebers United

Most Outrageous

Brian Wilson, SF Giants

I would expect nothing less from the always-entertaining B Wilson.

photo via Toronto Sun

Hope you enjoyed the show! 

Cosmo Clue:

The 2011 ESPY Awards aired last week and brought out some major sports stunners.

For the actual list of winners, click here.

2011 ESPY Awards

The ESPYS are the Oscars of the sports world, in addition to like a million more babes and way more laughs. The most popular athletes (and celebs who can't help but join the spotlight) from all over the world head to LA to take a look back at the past year in sports. Awards range from Athlete of the Year to Biggest Upset and everything in between. 

Hosted by SNL comedian Seth Meyers, the show starts tonight at 9 pm ET on EPSN.

Some studs I'll be looking for on the red carpet:

Kelly Slater

Seeing this surfing sensation's perfect face never gets old.

 photo via Lat34

Justin Timberlake 

The always entertaining JT has a funny new skit for this year's show.

Aaron Rodgers

I'm extremely excited for this Chico-grown NFL champion to strut his stuff.

 photo via Jim Rome

Lamar Odom, Khloe Kardashian, Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries

Call me crazy, but I actually love everything about this family and their sporty beaus.

photo via Daily News

Dirk Nowitzki

Though Dirk won't be the sexiest man to grace the awards, he's worked hard and deserves all his praise.

photo via Overall

And one couple that will be hard to miss...

David & Victoria Beckham

Since the glam couple just welcomed a baby girl to the world, I unfortunately doubt that they'll be attending the awards this year.

photo via Mail Online

Ballers, babes and their bombshell wives. Do your best not to miss the show!

Cosmo Clue:

The 2011 ESPY Awards are on tonight on EPSN.

Check out some behind the scenes action here.

Movies That Rule

While there's no denying that some of the most legendary sports films are testosterone heavy, there are also some epic female-centered classics. Stuck on ideas for date night with your man? Or trying to find the next movie for a girls night in? Here are some of the most famous sports movies, classified into whatever you're looking for.

With the BF solo:

-The Sandlot

Quite possibly one of the best movies ever made, but I've met girls who just don't get it.

photo via Texas Theatre

-Field of Dreams

Baseball legends and Kevin Costner. A few of a man's favorite things.

-Any Given Sunday

A little too abrasive for most girls (myself included), but guys love anything Al Pacino.

-Caddyshack

Though I don't personally get too big of a kick out of this movie, boys do.

-Rocky

Sylvester Stallone and boxing. Two things girls aren't usually thrilled on, but a classic for sure.

-Bull Durham

I think this is my dad's, brother's, uncle's and grandpa's favorite movie. GUYS DIG IT.

With your BF and BFF(s):

-Remember the Titans

A feel-good movie that gets me every time.

photo via Blogspot

-The Blind Side

Based on a true story, this flick melts the hearts of the girls and has enough football for the boys.

-The Mighty Ducks

Need I say more?

-Rudy

By far my favorite sports movie EVER. You can't help but love and root for Rudy in this one.

-Varsity Blues

Naked girls and hot guys. Everyone wins.

-Cool Runnings

If this doesn't remind you of your childhood, I don't know what does.

-Coach Carter

Not only is this movie emotionally amazing, but Channing Tatum is one of the stars. Winner!

-Talladega Nights

FUNNIEST. MOVIE. EVER.

-White Men Can't Jump

I don't know if I love this movie more for the basketball or the sweet early '90s wardrobe, but I love it.

With your BFF(s) solo:

-A League of Their Own

-By far the best female sports movie ever. There's no crying in baseball. 

photo via Glogster

-She's the Man

Classic or not, again, Channing Tatum.

-Love & Basketball

One of the best love stories ever and it incorporates basketball for all my sporty girls.

-Bring it On

This brings me back to the cheerleading days, and is a movie no girl can resist. 

-Blue Crush

Kate Bosworth pre-eating disorder. Always a good go-to movie for time with the ladies.

So whether you save this list for a rainy day, or find yourself having a lazy weekend, grab your guy or girlfriends and check out some of these flicks.

Cosmo Clue:

Guys aren't the only stars of the best sports movies ever made.

Feeling REALLY bored? Click here.

A link to love

This isn't necessarily the most over-the-top exciting post, but I wanted to share a little something I love. 

For my photo-loving friends, ESPN does a pretty much perfect job at capturing amazing moments throughout the week in sports. If you're more of a visual person and are opposed to reading endless information about sports, check out this link to see some great shots. 

It's a way to not only get caught up on the latest sports action, but it also a great indulgence for the eyes. 

 photo via ESPN

add the link to your daily reads and enjoy!

Wedding Bells

Spring is a time for flowing dresses, baseball games, backyard barbeques and for many athlete-celeb couples, weddings and proposals. Whether it's the warm weather or blooming buds, something must be in the water of the locker room drinking fountains. Several familiar faces around the athlete community have been taking their love to the next level. From ballers to footballers, here are some of the latest guys makin' the moves...

Tony Romo and Candice Crawford

 photo via Celebridoodle

If you're not aware of this hunk of a man yet, he is the QB for the Dallas Cowboys. His new ball and chain is Candice Crawford, a former Miss Missouri and the sister of the stunning Chase Crawford (pictured to the right). This most beautiful couple ever started dating in 2009 and got engaged last December.

 photo via People

They got hitched over the weekend in a very small, intimate service - only 600 people in attendance. Congrats to these Southern belles!

Jay Cutler and Kristin Cavallari

photo via Engagement Ring Blog

Jay is one of the biggest babies in sports and Kristin is one of the whiniest reality stars, so the pair seem to go well together. He is the QB for the Chicago Bears and she is known for roaming around Laguna Beach and The Hills reality shows. The couple began dating last fall and got engaged in April while on vaca in Cabo. I wish these two the best, but I don't see it lasting far past the wedding bells.

photo via FabulousBuzz

Kristin is now seen sporting 5.2 carat diamond ring.

Kris Humphries and Kim Kardashian 

 photo via StarBerryIceCream

This extra stunning pair started dating in December 2010 and got engaged a couple weeks ago. Humphries spelled out "Will you marry me?" with red roses and popped the question on May 18th. The reality star/sex-tape star/entrepreneur has worked her way around the athlete world, so hopefully this New Jersey Net can tie her down for good. The two will surely make gorgeous mini-me's if they can make it that far.

photo via People

In Kardashian fashion, the ring did not disappoint. Humphries lived up to his future families over-the-top style and popped the question with a 20.5 carat sparkler. 

Other athletes who are recently engaged: Chad Ochocinco is engaged to Basketball Wives "star" Evelyn Lozada, and Detroit Tigers pitcher Brad Penny is soon to be married to Karina Smirnoff, the Dancing with the Stars beauty.

Who's next? Derek Jeter who has been dating Minka Kelly for years? Or Jeter's teammate Alex Rodriguez who has been loving on Cameron Diaz for months?

Cosmo Clue:

Love is in the air. Many athletes are tying the knot to famous girls.

Baseball Fever

I'm like a little kid counting down the days 'til Christmas lately. Crossing off day after day on my calendar, heavily anticipating baseball season. I'm spending my days dreaming of rowdy crowds, the feeling of a homerun, booing the other team, cold beer(s) & hot dogs. Anyone with me?

photo via Denver

While I've been getting nibbles at baseball through Spring Training games on the tube, it's still not enough. But thank god, MLB Network is so kindly putting together an in depth look into each baseball team! It's called 30 Clubs in 30 Days and it's a lifesaver. No worries if you're cheap (like me), and don't get MLB Network with your cable package - it's On Demand! (Go to Sports & Fitness, then MLB Network, then choose your team). If you're too cheap to even have a cable box in your house, I can't help you. There are only a few teams focused on so far, but check the listings if your team isn't up yet. Lucky for me, my Padres are already on - and let me tell you SD fans - it got me pumped!

photo via Sulekha

Here is the full schedule of shows to come. 

So delete some episodes of The Bachelor on your DVR and make room for this series. Hope it can tide you over until Opening Day. Let's hope that the days go by fast until then!

Twinkle Toes

The Dancing with the Stars lineup was announced last night, and once again, a beefy football star will be  channeling his inner Beyonce. This season, Pittsburgh Steelers nice-guy wide receiver, Hines Ward will be showing America how to break it down - or not. After reading some blogs, I've seen almost an outrage from Steeler and football fans everywhere. Since Hines, 34, is not yet retired, people are worried about his health while boogieing down and through intense training. Others think this might be a sign that his football career will soon be at an end. Dancing around in sparkly, chest baring shirts might not do so well when it comes to his ego on the field, but the fact that he's doing the show proves he's got some cajones! We'll see what happens, but I'm pumped to see the former Super Bowl champ take on the Waltz.

photo via Opposing Views

Hines isn't the first, and probably not the last, football playa to take the stage. Take a look at all the boys that have strutted their stuff:

Jerry Rice, Season 2 - retired Hale of Fame wide receiver

Emmitt Smith*, Season 3 - retired Hale of Fame running back

Jason Taylor, Season 6 - defensive player

Warren Sapp, Season 7 - retired defensive tackle

Lawrence Taylor, Season 8 - retired Hall of Fame linebacker

Michael Irvin, Season 9 - retired Hall of Fame wide receiver

Chad Ochocinco, Season 10 - wide receiver/cocky SOB/reality "star"

Kurt Warner, Season 11 - retired quarterback

Here is Emmitt Smith reppin' for the football studs, winning the 3rd season:

*Winner of the season

For a look at the entire Season 12 Dancing with the Stars cast, click here. Show starts March 21st on ABC. If you're a fan of awkward moments, skimpy clothes and some semi-stars, don't miss it!