Tag: Sports

March Madness 101: How to Create the Perfect Bracket

Posted on by Dan Eckersley

March is here, and for college basketball fans, that means one thing—March Madness! What does that mean for basketball followers new to the scene? Bracket time, of course. March Madness is the perfect time to get into the excitement of filling out a bracket—fueled by strategy, luck, and college basketball determination. Every buzzer-beater and upset plays into creating the perfect bracket—and we’ve got the play-by-play to build a slam dunk bracket.   

What is March Madness? 

March Madness refers to the NCAA men’s and women’s basketball tournaments held every spring. The best 68 college basketball teams compete in a single-elimination game to crown the national champion in these tournaments. Games are held throughout March and early April, and rankings, upsets, and underdog victories dominate sports conversations across the U.S. 

Even the casual basketball observer can enjoy filling out a bracket and predicting which teams will advance and potentially win the championship. It’s one of the most exciting March traditions, and everyone can participate. 

How College Basketball Brackets Work 

Start with looking at the March Madness games as a tree with 68 branches. The brackets represent the tournament structure, with each match-up determined in advance. Then, you predict the winners in every game until the championship game. 

Here are some bracket basics to know before you start filling yours out:

  • The Seeds: Teams are ranked or “seeded” within four geographic regions, from #1 (the strongest team) to #16 (the perceived underdog). 
  • First Four: The tournament starts with four play-in games, but the real action begins during the Round of 64. 
  • Single Elimination: One loss, and a team is out for the season, leading to plenty of dramatic upsets and Cinderella stories. 
  • Advance Through Rounds: As teams win, they move to the next round—the Round of 32, Sweet Sixteen, Elite Eight, Final Four, and finally, the National Championship. 

The objective? Predict as many winners as possible within your bracket—ideally without busting your championship contenders—with each correctly guessed game earning points. Winning the year’s bracket is difficult but comes with lots of fun as you consider the more than 9 quintillion possible bracket combinations. 

How to Pick the Best Bracket to Win 

1. Understand the Favorites and Underdogs

Start by studying the seeds. Statistically, #1 seeds have the best odds of advancing in the tournament. However, Cinderella stories—when a low-seeded team defies the odds—are what make March Madness thrilling. While picking higher seeds for early rounds is smart, expect a few upsets. Teams seeded #10 through #12 often win first-round games against their higher-ranked opponents. 

2. Do Your Research 

While luck plays a big role, informed choices can improve your chances. Keep these in mind:

  • Team Performance: Check out teams’ season win/loss records and performance against strong opponents. 
  • Key Players: Look for teams with star players; they tend to shine during high-pressure games or change the game if injured. 
  • Matchup Histories: Has a particular team struggled against defensive-minded opponents in the past? Matchups matter. 

3. Balance Chalk Picks and Upsets 

  • Chalk Picks: These are “safe bets,” where you pick higher-seeded teams to advance. On average, most tournament champions are #1 seeds. 
  • Strategic Upsets: Predicting a few key upsets in the earlier rounds can make your bracket bust-proof. Consider lower-seeded teams capable of surprises—they often have grit and momentum on their side. 

4. Don’t Overthink the Final Four 

By the time your bracket reaches the Final Four, focus on a balanced mix of high and mid-seeded teams. Historical data shows that not all Final Four participants are top seeds. Usually, you’ll see one or two teams ranked #4 or lower in this round. Avoid overloading your predictions with long-shot teams, as it’s rare for them to reach the championship. 

5. Remember the Fun Factor 

Finally, don’t stress out trying to build a perfect bracket—it’s almost impossible—and that’s what makes the unpredictability of March Madness so much fun. Make that bold pick if you feel strongly about a dark horse team, a college, or a particular player—it will make the action more exciting when watching the game. Even if your bracket falls apart, you can still enjoy cheering for the winners, upsets, dramatic comebacks, and nail-biting finishes at your favorite neighborhood Bout Time.

Get Into the Madness

Filling out your March Madness bracket is the ultimate mix of strategy and luck. Rely on some data in your strategy while leaving room for a little personal preference and definitely some madness along the way. The excitement of watching your picks play out over a great burger with friends is worth every second, and watching your national champion cut down the nets could be a new season highlight!

Hockey 101: Understanding the Basics

Posted on by Dan Eckersley

Utah is enjoying the first National Hockey League action season in several decades. Whether you’re a long-time Colorado Avalanche fan who swung a stick as a kid and are now a die-hard supporter gearing up for the next big match or just curious about the buzz surrounding the game, we’re sharing some tips to turn you into a hockey-savvy viewer. From understanding the fundamentals of the sport to tips on how to best enjoy a game, we’re putting you in the know. 

The Basics of Hockey 

At its core, hockey is a fast-paced game played on ice where two teams compete to score goals by hitting a puck into the opposing team’s net. Ice hockey is played with six players per team on the ice (five skaters and one goalie). Matches are typically divided into three periods, each lasting 20 minutes of gameplay. 

Key Terms to Know 

  • Faceoff: A method to begin play where the referee drops the puck between two opposing players. 
  • Offside: Occurs when a player crosses the opponent’s blue line before the puck does. 
  • Icing: When a player shoots the puck across the center red line and the opposing team’s goal line without it being touched. 
  • Power Play: When one team has a numerical advantage on the ice due to the opposing team taking a penalty. 
  • Penalty Box: A designated area where players sit due to committing penalties. Time in the penalty box depends on the severity of the infraction. 

The Players and Their Roles 

Every player on the ice has a specific role to fulfill, here’s a quick rundown: 

  • Forwards (center and wingers): Primarily responsible for scoring goals and assisting plays. 
  • Defensemen: Their job is to stop the opposing team from scoring while supporting their forwards. 
  • Goalie (goaltender): The last line of defense, tasked with stopping the puck from entering the net. 

Equipment 

Hockey players are equipped to handle high-speed collisions, puck impacts, and falls with gear including helmets, gloves, shin pads, shoulder pads, skates, and a stick. While fans might enjoy a good fistfight on the ice now and then, safety is a priority in the game.

Learning the Flow of Hockey 

Hockey has its own rhythm, and once you understand the flow, you’ll want to pay close attention to transitions, the fight for puck possession, and the power plays that can make or break the game. 

If you’re new to watching hockey, start by focusing on the puck, then gradually watch how the players position themselves and strategize around it. You’ll quickly realize that the excitement in hockey often builds up around key moments like power plays, shots on goal, or penalty kills. Learn how to spot these moments by understanding the rules—you’ll recognize when it’s time to lean in and cheer louder. 

Get Into the Spirit of the Game

Part of the fun of hockey is picking a team to support. Whether you choose based on where you live, family traditions, or simply who has the coolest mascot, having “your team” transforms the experience into an action-packed event every game. 

If you don’t have a favorite team in mind, stop by your neighborhood Bout Time—you’ll find plenty of regulars cheering on their teams since hockey has some of the most passionate fans in sports. The sense of camaraderie is infectious, and Bout Time is the perfect place to catch a game with friends and share a slice and a beer. 

Since hockey is a sensory experience, you’ll find that excellent food only enhances it. Match the nonstop action with scratch-made food options, paired with local beers on tap or plenty of cocktails to take your game night up a notch. 

Hockey is for Everyone

Hockey is a thrilling, skillful, and sometimes nail-biting sport that captivates fans. With the basics understood, you’re ready to immerse yourself in the action. So, stop in and enjoy a live game with great food and company. We’ve got more TVs than tables, delicious snacks, and the best spot waiting for you—so get your game on! 

Pairing Beers with Our Signature Burgers: A Flavor Guide

Posted on by Dan Eckersley

By Heather King

It’s easy to taste why a juicy burger and a cold beer are a culinary match at Bout Time. But what happens when the right pairing of a perfectly poured pint of beer and a scratch-made burger elevates your dining experience to another level? 

Burger and Beer Pairings

When it comes to balancing flavors, Bout Time’s burgers and fresh toppings pair perfectly with the crisp, refreshing notes of beer, cutting through the richness for a balanced bite. And whether you’re into a hoppy IPA, a smooth lager, or a malty stout, there’s a beer to complement every burger flavor profile.

Of course, there’s nothing better than burgers and beer with friends while watching the game—and every location has more TVs than tables. It’s a classic combo that turns any meal into a great memory. Our guide helps you pick the perfect beer to match our signature burgers, whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur or just love a cold brew to complement your meal.

Cheeseburger Sliders + Pale Ale 

Nothing beats a classic; our cheeseburger sliders are best paired with a pale ale. The slightly hoppy flavor of the pale ale balances the richness of the cheese, while its crisp finish cuts through the juicy beef patty. Together, they create a timeless combination that’s simple yet satisfying. 

The Jalapeño Jack Burger + IPA 

If you like a bit of heat, our Jalapeño Jack Burger, loaded with fried jalapeños and pepper jack cheese, is a must-try. Pair it with an IPA to cool your palate without losing that fiery kick. The bitterness of the hops complements the spiciness, while the bright citrus notes add a refreshing touch to each bite. 

The Original Chubby Melt + Amber Ale 

For those who crave indulgence, the Original Chubby Melt—stacked with two Parmesan cheese-crusted grilled cheese sandwiches—is the ultimate pairing with an amber ale. The beer’s caramel maltiness amplifies the cheese, while its mild bitterness keeps every mouthful balanced and delicious. 

N.Y.O.B. Ingredient Match

If you’re into custom building your N.Y.O.B. burger, keep some of these tips in mind when ordering a beer to wash it down. 

Try a wheat beer if you like to pile on fresh veggies like avocado, grilled peppers, and alfalfa sprouts alongside lettuce, tomato, and red onion. Light and refreshing with hints of citrus or spice, wheat beers enhance the freshness and earthy flavors of vegetables without overpowering them. 

Blue cheese and grilled onions have intense flavors that call for a beer that can hold its own. Enter the Belgian Dubbel. Its fruity, malty sweetness helps balance the sharpness of the blue cheese, while its slight effervescence cleanses your palate between bites. 

All-Around Favorite Burger Beer

For those who are a bit indecisive, Kaden Severn, a bartender in Lehi, points to Bohemian Brewery’s crisp Czech Pilsner as an excellent choice to go with any of Bout Time’s burgers.

Discover Your New Favorite Pairing 

Pairing beer with burgers is all about balancing flavors and textures to create a harmonious dining experience. Whether you’re sticking with a classic combo or exploring bolder pairings, Bout Time has the perfect burger and beer waiting for you. Try one of these suggested pairings, ask your server for recommendations, or create your own. Cheers to great food, amazing beer, and unforgettable burger and beer pairings! 

Continuing the Legacy of the Denver Nuggets

Posted on by Dan Eckersley

Coming off of an NBA Finals win in Game 5, and with Nikola Jokic claiming the NBA Finals MVP title in 2023, the Denver Nuggets finally struck it rich! 

After all, it only took 47 years since the team was founded as a charter team in the American Basketball Association (ABA) in 1967 to claim the title. By 1976, the team made their way into the NBA league, where this past season, they took the championship home.

Join us to mine for some more basketball nuggets, including memorable moments and team history, as we jumpstart the season. 

What’s a Denver Nugget?

Interestingly, the Denver Nuggets were once known as the Denver Rockets, a name they had to give up due to a pre-existing Rockets team in Houston. Historically speaking, the Nuggets name fits much better with Colorado’s mining roots, where gold and silver nuggets meant miners had struck it rich.  

Notable Nuggets Players

Throughout the years, the Denver Nuggets have had several notable players who have paved the way for the team’s success. Some include Dan Issel, David Thompson, Dikembe Mutombo, and Carmelo Anthony. Thompson, the first overall pick in the 1975 draft, and Issel, a six-time NBA All-Star, garnered much praise for their skill and determination on the basketball court. 

Alex English holds three Nuggets records: most points scored (21,645), most assists (3,679), and most minutes played (29,893).

The most recent player to make a mark for the team is Nikola Jokic. He was the 41st pick in the 2014 draft and has made his 7-foot presence known since he arrived. In 2016, he was named to the NBA Rookie First Team. He’s since become the team’s all-time leader in playoff triple-doubles. He was the first-ever Nuggets player to earn the NBA MVP award, and last season was named the Finals MVP. 

High Score Holder

Did you know that the Denver Nuggets hold the record for the highest-scoring NBA game in total points in history? On December 13, 1983, the Nuggets played the Detroit Pistons and racked up an incredible 186-184 triple-overtime game. Led by Kiki Vandeweghe, who scored 51 points (equaling an NBA record for field goals in a game), the teams put on a display that still lives on in history.

Here’s to Your Denver Nuggets!

As the NBA’s current champions, the Nuggets are a slam dunk in your basketball viewing schedule this season as they continue to build on their legacy. Isn’t it about time to put on your Joker jersey, order up your favorite snacks for the game, and enjoy the game with friends at your nearest neighborhood location to cheer on those Nuggets?

Cycle Through Time: How the Tour de France Has Evolved Over the Years

Posted on by Dan Eckersley

Every year, over 51 million Americans ride their bicycles, which means this is the third most-popular outdoor activity in the nation!

While some people bike out of necessity (for commuting), others love doing it to see the scenery. But others would prefer to watch it on screen, such as when big races like the Tour de France are on.

The Tour de France is a race for the ages, which makes it worth learning about. Read on for a brief Tour de France history!

The Starting Line: Origins of the Tour de France and Its Early Years

The very first Tour de France happened on July 1, 1903. The race had six stages, starting and ending in Paris. Each stage was around 250 miles, and took the cyclists through cities like Lyon, Marseilles, and Toulouse.

The competitors only got one to three days to rest between stages. And even though there were no mountain passes, this 1,500-mile race was still pretty brutal.

For instance, it was a completely solo trip for the cyclists. They had to bring their own supplies and fix their bikes when they broke down.

Advancements in Cycling Technology: How Bikes and Gears Have Transformed the Race

We have years of ever-advancing technology to thank for shaping the modern Tour de France. For example, we have aerodynamic bikes with streamlined designs and materials like carbon fiber, which make climbs faster and more efficient.

Bikes also now have electronic shifting and disc brakes. The former allows for easier gear shifting, and the latter provides increased stopping power and consistent performance in various weather conditions.

As for the riders, they can utilize aerodynamic clothing made of moisture-wicking and cooling fabrics. Specialized clothing also have advanced padding, chamois, and temperature regulation technologies for better comfort.

The Route Less Traveled: Changes in the Tour de France Course Over Time

As time progressed, Tour de France changes made the race only more difficult. More stages were added to the Tour de France course, and today, it has 21 stages that span 2,200 miles. There are also mountain climbs and time trials.

The earlier races were held during the day and night, but the darkness covered cheating. So to curb this, the Tour de France only occurs during the daytime.

Iconic Moments and Legendary Cyclists: Memorable Highlights From the Tour de France

One iconic moment was when the first famed yellow jersey was given to Eugene Christophe on July 19, 1919. Another was when a spectator punched Eddy Merckx in the liver; although heavily injured, he was able to finish the race (vomiting at the line).

Lance Armstrong was known for having a record of seven straight wins in the Tour de France. However, they were disqualified in 2012. This leaves a four-way tie of five wins each between Jacques Antquetil, Bernard Hinault, Miguel Indurain, and Eddy Merckx.

Bringing the Race to Bout Time Pub and Grub: Celebrating the Tour de France With Fellow Enthusiasts

Now that you know all about the Tour de France history, don’t you want to get in on the action? Here at Bout Time Pub and Grub, we’ve got more TVs than tables, so you and your buddies can chow down on great meals, drink cold beers, and cheer on the cyclists on the big screens.

So what are you waiting for? Find your nearest Bout Time Pub and Grub location!

Masters Tournament Facts, Trivia, and Predictions for This Year

Posted on by Dan Eckersley

The Masters Tournament is one of the year’s most highly anticipated golf events. It takes place annually at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia and attracts top golfers worldwide. 

If you can’t make it out to Georgia, there are many ways to watch the Masters tournament. All the major sports channels will cover the tournament, and we’ll have it playing at Bout Time Pub! 

Interesting Facts about Past Tournaments and Winners

The Masters Golf Tournament has a rich history from its inception in 1934. Here are some interesting facts about past tournaments and winners:

The youngest winner of the Masters was Tiger Woods in 1997 at the age of 21. He won by a record-breaking 12 strokes and became the first African-American to win the tournament. He went on to win the tournament five times – and his career isn’t over yet! 

The oldest winner of the Masters was Jack Nicklaus in 1986 at 46. He won his sixth green jacket, which is the award given to the tournament winner.

Predictions for Top Contenders in 2023

While it’s always tricky to predict who will come out on top at the Masters, a few golfers will likely be top contenders in 2023. Here are our predictions:

  • Jon Rahm: Rahm is currently ranked as the number-one golfer globally and has consistently been one of the top golfers on the PGA Tour.
  • Collin Morikawa: Morikawa is a rising star in the golf world and has already won two major championships, including the 2020 PGA Championship.
  • Bryson DeChambeau: DeChambeau has become known for his unique approach to the game and has already won a major championship at the 2020 U.S. Open.
  • Jordan Spieth: Spieth has had a bit of a slump in recent years, but he’s still a top golfer with three major championships under his belt. He also won the Masters once before, in 2015.

Iconic Masters Moments

The Masters Tournament has produced many memorable moments over the years. 

Tiger Woods’ comeback win in 2019: After several years of injury and personal struggles, Woods made an incredible comeback to win the 2019 Masters. It was his fifth win at the tournament and his first major championship in 11 years.

Next, Jack Nicklaus’ historic victory in 1986: At 46, Nicklaus became the oldest winner of the Masters with his sixth green jacket. He also made a landmark charge on the back nine, making birdies on five of the last nine holes.

Finally, Phil Mickelson’s approach shot on the 13th hole in 2010: Mickelson hit an incredible approach shot on the 13th hole in the final round of the 2010 Masters. The shot was so good that it’s now known as “The Shot” and helped Mickelson win his third green jacket.

Tips for Watching the Masters Tournament

For fans who can’t make it to Augusta National, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the Masters from home. Head to Bout Time Pub for full Masters Tournament coverage, great food, and quality drinks. 

Don’t have a week to watch golf? Come see us for the Masters final 4. We’ll have all the TV’s tuned to this iconic tournament. See you soon! 

Bracket Busting Facts About the Final Four

Posted on by Dan Eckersley

Are you among the 58% of Americans watching college basketball? If so, you know that March Madness is the pinnacle of every college basketball season. But you might not know much about the history of this storied event.

Read on to learn some bracket-busting facts about the Final Four!

A Sports Broadcaster Coined March Madness 

That’s right — the phrase March Madness hasn’t been around forever. Longtime sports broadcaster Brent Musberger mentioned the phrase during a game in 1982, and the name caught on.

The only hitch? A high school state championship program had also laid claim to the phrase — starting in 1939. Fortunately, the NCAA and the high school sports program were granted permission to use March Madness!

Five Is an Unlucky Number

Earning a #5 seed in the tournament sounds like a solid ranking for a basketball program. Good luck winning the tournament, though!

That’s because there has never been a #5 seed to walk away with the trophy. And only three teams have ever advanced to the championship game with that seed.

Kansas City Has Hosted the Most Games

You might be surprised that this Midwestern city ranks at the top. But that’s largely because Kansas City’s Municipal Auditorium, which dates back to 1935, scored nine hosting gigs between 1940 and 1964. Today, the Superdome in New Orleans tackles most of the Final Four hosting duties. 

The Courts Originate in Michigan

It makes sense to assume that the college basketball teams simply play on the given courts at a venue. But once again, there’s a surprising twist. The gleaming hardwood courts you see Final Four teams battle it out on are installed especially for the game.

Connor Sports sustainably sources the maple at its mill in Amasa, Michigan. Once the floors are processed and finished, they’re shipped to the courts for installation.

You’re Unlikely to Pick the Winning Teams

Have you been following college basketball all season? Even so, you’re probably not going to score a victory with your brackets. You’re better off entering the lottery if you hope to increase your winning odds. 

That said, a man chose the correct outcomes of the first 49 games in 2019. But that’s as far as he got!

1979’s Title Game Drew the Biggest Audience

If you’ve ordered a pizza with friends while watching a Final Four game in recent years, you may think you’re part of history. But the most-watched championship game on television wasn’t a recent one.

That’s understandable when you learn that the marquee players squaring off in 1979 were Magic Johnson and Larry Bird. The Michigan State Spartans, led by Johnson, came out on top. 

Get Ready for the Final Four

When you tune in for the Final Four, you’ll be able to impress your friends with little-known facts about the tournament. You can talk about the special hardwood courts, the history of the term March Madness, and more. Plus, you’ll know better than to let a #5 seed ascend to the championship game when filling out your bracket.

Ready to enjoy some fantastic grub while you indulge in March basketball? Check us out for the best pub in town!