Just wanted to wish all of you that read this (all 9 of you) a very Merry Christmas. Hopefully your day is wonderful and filled with love, joy, happiness and all those other synonyms.
Love,
Jim
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Friday, December 17, 2010
How to Fix the Washington Redskins
Well, they have really done it now. The Redskins have benched my boy Donovan. Not cool. It is not his fault the team is terrible. Far from it. Here is what I think went wrong with the Skins this year, and my solutions to the problems.
1. Coaching
What the hell is Mike Shanahan doing? I mean, this is the worst run team I have ever seen. The 0-16 Lions were coached better than this. He is terrible with the media, terrible with his players, and terrible with his decisions. The entire Haynesworth fiasco was his fault. Yes, Albert was out of shape and has very little drive. But embarrassing him like Mike did was the exact wrong way to deal with a crybaby. Also, we didn't trade him when we had the chance. The Titans offered us a 4th, and he would have been worth it. Shanahan hasn't been a good coach unless Elway was his QB. Let's rub some of the mystique off this guy's rings and realize that an all-time great QB won those, not coaching.
Solution
Fire him. I know, it is probably too soon. But this is insanity. We have won one more game than last year, but at the expense of the entire franchise being torn apart by the tan one we call coach. Fire him, and try to get either an up-and-coming guy who has been waiting for his shot, or (my pick the entire time) Brian Billick. He won a Super Bowl with Trent Dilfer as his QB.
2. The Assistants and their schemes
Nepotism is a terrible thing. Kyle Shanahan is the son of our head coach. He is also the O-Coordinator. We have run some of the most heinous plays at the worst times this season, which have cost us at least 2 wins (Houston and Minnesota, though not pounding Torain at the goal line against Tampa didn't help either). Some might argue that he did a great job in Houston. Well, look at their offense now. Still great, and he isn't there.
As for defense... ugh. I mean, seriously? We have been a top 5 defense the past 5 years, all while playing the 4-3. We are awesome at the 4-3. We have the linebackers, DTs, DEs and safeties to play the 4-3. And Jim Haslett has to come in and switch to a 3-4. The only person the 3-4 would help is Brian Orakpo, and that is only if he got to rush the passer every down. Guess what? He doesn't. The system is completely wrong for the players we have.
Solutions
Fire them both along with Mike. It isn't working out at all on offense, and it would take at least 4 years and a bunch of draft picks that we don't have to rebuild the defense into an effective 3-4. Find someone that can work with the personnel we have, and find a DC that can bring the 4-3 back.
2. Quarterback
Donovan McNabb is not the problem. The problem is the system, the weapons, the lack of a line, and a terrible defense. With this benching, we have guaranteed that McNabb will not be back in DC. Expect him to be cut or traded. I am calling it now- he is in the playoffs next year (if there is football), and we are picking in the Top 10.
Solution
Rexy, sexy though he may be, is not the answer. So, it seems we will have to spend our #1 pick on a QB. It is a shame when we have so many other holes to fill. Is it possible that we get luck-y and Andrew Luck falls to us? No, sorry. We also don't have the pieces to trade up, unless we start using 2012 picks (never put it past us). So that means we are looking at Cam Newton, Ryan Mallett and Jake Locker. None of those names make me very happy. Cam isn't a real QB. Ryan has an injury history, and Locker is still very raw. If I was a betting man, I would guess that we end up with Locker and watch him struggle to grow with a team that lacks the proper weapons. He'll be solid the 2nd team he is on, though.
3. Weapons
The RBs, WRs, and TEs. Ah yes. Well, we have found some nice youth with Ryan Torain and Keiland Williams. I guess I won't pick on them too much. Would still love a true #1 though. Portis, you are gone. You are only entertaining when we win. Now, about those WRs. Santana can't catch, Armstrong and Banks are rookie speedsters, Roydell Williams is... ROYDELL WILLIAMS! We need proven wideouts. The tight ends were supposed to be our strong point and, shockingly, haven't been used well. Cooley is great across the middle. Fred Davis is athletic enough that he could be Antonio Gates. But instead, they do nothing but block. Unbelievable.
Solution
The biggest spot where we need help is at WR. That is where free agency comes in. Vincent Jackson is a huge target with amazing hands and great speed. He makes Phillip Rivers look amazing instead of just great. His teammate, Legedu Naanee, is also a huge target. Not as explosive, but could be a solid possession receiver, which we don't have now. Steve Breaston is another possibility, or a late round hidden gem. As for the RBs, find a steal late in the draft, like a LeGarrett Blount in Tampa, or just see where the All-Torain-Vehicle takes you. Pass to the tight ends. Use Davis downfield.
4. The O-Line
Trent Williams hasn't been that bad. I was wrong about him. Just need him to stay healthy. Jamaal Brown's the same way. Everywhere else, however, we need upgrades. We need solid young linemen. I would spend every pick we have on them (which isn't much), after the QB of course.
Solution
Really scout the O-line draft class. Get whoever you can that isn't injury prone and knows how to pass protect. Our young QB will get killed without it. Oh... DO NOT RE-SIGN STEPHON HEYER! He is, in my opinion, the worst Redskin of all time.
5. The Defense
Like I said, this group isn't that bad if they are in the 4-3. We need to get a little younger up front though. Corner and safety are the biggest issues.
Solution
Find guys that are committed to the scheme, which should be the 4-3, and run it well. Somehow, find corners that can both cover and intercept the ball. Hall can intercept it but can't cover. Rogers can cover but has hands made of stone. Landry hits hard, but is an average cover safety. We have a revolving door at the other safety spot. Free agency is probably the best way to fix this, since all of our other draft picks should be going towards the line.
6. Special Teams
It's a kicker and a punter. Shouldn't be that hard.
Solution
Sign a kicker that can make field goals consistently. Sign a punter with a net average of 40 yards or more.
7. The Owner
Stuck with that one. Sorry.
Will this solve our problems instantly? No. We will get a lot younger, and will need time to rebuild. But I think it would (finally) put us on the right track. We should learn from the Steelers and Patriots, and run our teams like them. It shouldn't be that difficult. Or, we don't listen, send away all of our picks, and suck for another decade. If that happens, you all can enjoy your Skins. I'll be in Baltimore.
1. Coaching
What the hell is Mike Shanahan doing? I mean, this is the worst run team I have ever seen. The 0-16 Lions were coached better than this. He is terrible with the media, terrible with his players, and terrible with his decisions. The entire Haynesworth fiasco was his fault. Yes, Albert was out of shape and has very little drive. But embarrassing him like Mike did was the exact wrong way to deal with a crybaby. Also, we didn't trade him when we had the chance. The Titans offered us a 4th, and he would have been worth it. Shanahan hasn't been a good coach unless Elway was his QB. Let's rub some of the mystique off this guy's rings and realize that an all-time great QB won those, not coaching.
Solution
Fire him. I know, it is probably too soon. But this is insanity. We have won one more game than last year, but at the expense of the entire franchise being torn apart by the tan one we call coach. Fire him, and try to get either an up-and-coming guy who has been waiting for his shot, or (my pick the entire time) Brian Billick. He won a Super Bowl with Trent Dilfer as his QB.
2. The Assistants and their schemes
Nepotism is a terrible thing. Kyle Shanahan is the son of our head coach. He is also the O-Coordinator. We have run some of the most heinous plays at the worst times this season, which have cost us at least 2 wins (Houston and Minnesota, though not pounding Torain at the goal line against Tampa didn't help either). Some might argue that he did a great job in Houston. Well, look at their offense now. Still great, and he isn't there.
As for defense... ugh. I mean, seriously? We have been a top 5 defense the past 5 years, all while playing the 4-3. We are awesome at the 4-3. We have the linebackers, DTs, DEs and safeties to play the 4-3. And Jim Haslett has to come in and switch to a 3-4. The only person the 3-4 would help is Brian Orakpo, and that is only if he got to rush the passer every down. Guess what? He doesn't. The system is completely wrong for the players we have.
Solutions
Fire them both along with Mike. It isn't working out at all on offense, and it would take at least 4 years and a bunch of draft picks that we don't have to rebuild the defense into an effective 3-4. Find someone that can work with the personnel we have, and find a DC that can bring the 4-3 back.
2. Quarterback
Donovan McNabb is not the problem. The problem is the system, the weapons, the lack of a line, and a terrible defense. With this benching, we have guaranteed that McNabb will not be back in DC. Expect him to be cut or traded. I am calling it now- he is in the playoffs next year (if there is football), and we are picking in the Top 10.
Solution
Rexy, sexy though he may be, is not the answer. So, it seems we will have to spend our #1 pick on a QB. It is a shame when we have so many other holes to fill. Is it possible that we get luck-y and Andrew Luck falls to us? No, sorry. We also don't have the pieces to trade up, unless we start using 2012 picks (never put it past us). So that means we are looking at Cam Newton, Ryan Mallett and Jake Locker. None of those names make me very happy. Cam isn't a real QB. Ryan has an injury history, and Locker is still very raw. If I was a betting man, I would guess that we end up with Locker and watch him struggle to grow with a team that lacks the proper weapons. He'll be solid the 2nd team he is on, though.
3. Weapons
The RBs, WRs, and TEs. Ah yes. Well, we have found some nice youth with Ryan Torain and Keiland Williams. I guess I won't pick on them too much. Would still love a true #1 though. Portis, you are gone. You are only entertaining when we win. Now, about those WRs. Santana can't catch, Armstrong and Banks are rookie speedsters, Roydell Williams is... ROYDELL WILLIAMS! We need proven wideouts. The tight ends were supposed to be our strong point and, shockingly, haven't been used well. Cooley is great across the middle. Fred Davis is athletic enough that he could be Antonio Gates. But instead, they do nothing but block. Unbelievable.
Solution
The biggest spot where we need help is at WR. That is where free agency comes in. Vincent Jackson is a huge target with amazing hands and great speed. He makes Phillip Rivers look amazing instead of just great. His teammate, Legedu Naanee, is also a huge target. Not as explosive, but could be a solid possession receiver, which we don't have now. Steve Breaston is another possibility, or a late round hidden gem. As for the RBs, find a steal late in the draft, like a LeGarrett Blount in Tampa, or just see where the All-Torain-Vehicle takes you. Pass to the tight ends. Use Davis downfield.
4. The O-Line
Trent Williams hasn't been that bad. I was wrong about him. Just need him to stay healthy. Jamaal Brown's the same way. Everywhere else, however, we need upgrades. We need solid young linemen. I would spend every pick we have on them (which isn't much), after the QB of course.
Solution
Really scout the O-line draft class. Get whoever you can that isn't injury prone and knows how to pass protect. Our young QB will get killed without it. Oh... DO NOT RE-SIGN STEPHON HEYER! He is, in my opinion, the worst Redskin of all time.
5. The Defense
Like I said, this group isn't that bad if they are in the 4-3. We need to get a little younger up front though. Corner and safety are the biggest issues.
Solution
Find guys that are committed to the scheme, which should be the 4-3, and run it well. Somehow, find corners that can both cover and intercept the ball. Hall can intercept it but can't cover. Rogers can cover but has hands made of stone. Landry hits hard, but is an average cover safety. We have a revolving door at the other safety spot. Free agency is probably the best way to fix this, since all of our other draft picks should be going towards the line.
6. Special Teams
It's a kicker and a punter. Shouldn't be that hard.
Solution
Sign a kicker that can make field goals consistently. Sign a punter with a net average of 40 yards or more.
7. The Owner
Stuck with that one. Sorry.
Will this solve our problems instantly? No. We will get a lot younger, and will need time to rebuild. But I think it would (finally) put us on the right track. We should learn from the Steelers and Patriots, and run our teams like them. It shouldn't be that difficult. Or, we don't listen, send away all of our picks, and suck for another decade. If that happens, you all can enjoy your Skins. I'll be in Baltimore.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
The F&#@ing Washington Capitals
So, if you haven't seen the premiere episode of the HBO 24/7 Penguins-Capitals, I recommend it. Bruce Boudreau has an amazing rant where he drops like 15 f-bombs in less than a minute. It is beautiful... unlike the Caps play as of late. 7 straight losses. It is ugly. We can't stop anyone, and we forgot how to score. Not a good thing.
Nevertheless, the Caps are in 1st in the Southeast division and would be the 2 seed if the playoffs started today. However, it is December, so they don't start for like 4 months. Caps have plenty of time to turn it around, and will soon I hope. Just need to get past the Winter Classic, get out of the spotlight for a bit, and get back to what we do best- outscore and out-hustle our opponents.
Nevertheless, the Caps are in 1st in the Southeast division and would be the 2 seed if the playoffs started today. However, it is December, so they don't start for like 4 months. Caps have plenty of time to turn it around, and will soon I hope. Just need to get past the Winter Classic, get out of the spotlight for a bit, and get back to what we do best- outscore and out-hustle our opponents.
Goodbye Hammer
The Nationals traded Josh Willingham today for a reliever and a minor league outfielder. I am not sure Mike Rizzo is building this team the right way. Werth was a nice add, but we don't have a first baseman, an only 2 left-handed batters on the entire team. What is going on?
Sunday, December 5, 2010
For What Its Werth....
The Washington Nationals have pulled off quite a shocking move, signing free agent outfielder Jayson Werth to a 7-year, $126 million contract. Is it overpaying him? Yep. Did we need to do that to get him to sign? Yep. Am I happy about it? Sure. He is solid defensively and can hit well. We still need to do a lot more. Adding Carlos Pena would be the real key, since we currently do not have a 1b on the roster. Pitching is an issue as well (not sure how we will solve that, considering that the market is rather thin now). I am just happy that our billionaire owners have finally decided that they would spend money. This will make Zimmerman happy, and hopefully make him stay.
Speaking of, I think the Nationals should sign Ryan Zimmerman to the exact same extension that Troy Tulowitzki signed. He is worth it, and he is still our captain and best player, even with Werth on the roster. Giving him that contract would show that we need him and that this is his team as long as he wants it. Do it, Nats. This was a nice step forward, let's keep going. Go Nats!
Speaking of, I think the Nationals should sign Ryan Zimmerman to the exact same extension that Troy Tulowitzki signed. He is worth it, and he is still our captain and best player, even with Werth on the roster. Giving him that contract would show that we need him and that this is his team as long as he wants it. Do it, Nats. This was a nice step forward, let's keep going. Go Nats!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
A Missed Month Recap!
Missed a good deal, so here are some random thoughts about the last 2 months in sports-
- Congrats Giants. Nice World Series win. Excellent pitching and clutch hitting should always be a favorite.
- I really hope Cam Newton did nothing wrong, because if he did, then the fans will get robbed of another great year, another Heisman winner, and another National title.
- No, NCAA players should not be paid. They get a full ride in college, clothes, books, meal plan, housing and other money to spend. They are paid plenty as it is. It is their own fault if they don't take advantage of their opportunity to become educated. The average college student in America comes out of college with around $100,000 worth of debt and loans. These athletes have no debt. They are already rich, they don't need more.
- Boise State's kicker needs to transfer out of the state of Idaho. Go East, young man.
- Welcome to the Big East TCU. I have talked about it on here alot. It makes sense for both parties. TCU probably saw Boise lose their one game and now face playing in the Fight Hunger Bowl and thought "Geez, we better join an AQ conference soon". And so they did. We are very happy to have them.
- Do not get started on how this is terrible for the students playing football and that geographically there is no precedent. They actually travel less now then they did in the Mountain West, not to mention that the MWC was going to add Hawaii, which is a lot farther away than Storrs, CT. Furthermore, there is precedent in the NFL. The Dallas Cowboys play in the NFC East. TCU (located in Ft. Worth) is right there with America's team. Now they get to be seen in NYC, Philly, Pittsburgh, DC, Florida and Ohio. Exposure that will bring money to the school to pay for more scholarships. The Big East gets a football powerhouse. Cuse gets another easy basketball win. Love it.
- I would like to be the first to say goodbye to Adam Dunn. I hate that he will not be on the Nationals next year, but with his insistence on a 4th year, and the team's insistence on not providing that 4th year, he will not be back in a Nats uniform. Expect us to sign Carlos Pena within a week. Also, since we will not keep up with the Yankees, expect the Nats to make a play for Carl Pavano in that same time period.
- The Skins are 5-6. I thought they would be a little better, but really this seems just about right. They will finish near 8-8, which is a big improvement, especially with players that do not fit the scheme.
- We have the worst WR corp in the league. Santana has to go. Armstrong and Banks can stay cause they are young. Add at least 2 of the following in the offseason: Steve Breaston, Legedu Naanee, AJ Green, Santonio Holmes, Julio Jones, Vincent Jackson, (Insert dark horse rookie who will break out here).
- Stephon Heyer will be a FA after this year. If we re-sign him, I will kick someone.
- John Wall looks great, but has been battling some injuries. The Wizards aren't bad when he is in there. Javale McGee has really impressed me. Coming into his own as a dominant big man. I would still trade Gilbert Arenas for a white 3-point specialist. He just needs to be gone so we can move on.
- Cuse basketball- 7-0
- Big East: 4 teams in the top 8, which will be 5 after Georgetown took down Mizzou in KC last night.
- Brett Favre needs to go. Now.
- Tom Brady angry! BRADY SMASH!
- Phillip Rivers is a jackass. A big jackass. But man, can he throw a nice ball. Still trailing Eli and Ben (the other QBs in that draft that are good) in the Ring Count, but talent-wise he is the best.
- Caps are good, but could be better. We will make the playoffs easy. I just want to be watching Caps hockey in June.
I hope your day is going well, my friends.
- Congrats Giants. Nice World Series win. Excellent pitching and clutch hitting should always be a favorite.
- I really hope Cam Newton did nothing wrong, because if he did, then the fans will get robbed of another great year, another Heisman winner, and another National title.
- No, NCAA players should not be paid. They get a full ride in college, clothes, books, meal plan, housing and other money to spend. They are paid plenty as it is. It is their own fault if they don't take advantage of their opportunity to become educated. The average college student in America comes out of college with around $100,000 worth of debt and loans. These athletes have no debt. They are already rich, they don't need more.
- Boise State's kicker needs to transfer out of the state of Idaho. Go East, young man.
- Welcome to the Big East TCU. I have talked about it on here alot. It makes sense for both parties. TCU probably saw Boise lose their one game and now face playing in the Fight Hunger Bowl and thought "Geez, we better join an AQ conference soon". And so they did. We are very happy to have them.
- Do not get started on how this is terrible for the students playing football and that geographically there is no precedent. They actually travel less now then they did in the Mountain West, not to mention that the MWC was going to add Hawaii, which is a lot farther away than Storrs, CT. Furthermore, there is precedent in the NFL. The Dallas Cowboys play in the NFC East. TCU (located in Ft. Worth) is right there with America's team. Now they get to be seen in NYC, Philly, Pittsburgh, DC, Florida and Ohio. Exposure that will bring money to the school to pay for more scholarships. The Big East gets a football powerhouse. Cuse gets another easy basketball win. Love it.
- I would like to be the first to say goodbye to Adam Dunn. I hate that he will not be on the Nationals next year, but with his insistence on a 4th year, and the team's insistence on not providing that 4th year, he will not be back in a Nats uniform. Expect us to sign Carlos Pena within a week. Also, since we will not keep up with the Yankees, expect the Nats to make a play for Carl Pavano in that same time period.
- The Skins are 5-6. I thought they would be a little better, but really this seems just about right. They will finish near 8-8, which is a big improvement, especially with players that do not fit the scheme.
- We have the worst WR corp in the league. Santana has to go. Armstrong and Banks can stay cause they are young. Add at least 2 of the following in the offseason: Steve Breaston, Legedu Naanee, AJ Green, Santonio Holmes, Julio Jones, Vincent Jackson, (Insert dark horse rookie who will break out here).
- Stephon Heyer will be a FA after this year. If we re-sign him, I will kick someone.
- John Wall looks great, but has been battling some injuries. The Wizards aren't bad when he is in there. Javale McGee has really impressed me. Coming into his own as a dominant big man. I would still trade Gilbert Arenas for a white 3-point specialist. He just needs to be gone so we can move on.
- Cuse basketball- 7-0
- Big East: 4 teams in the top 8, which will be 5 after Georgetown took down Mizzou in KC last night.
- Brett Favre needs to go. Now.
- Tom Brady angry! BRADY SMASH!
- Phillip Rivers is a jackass. A big jackass. But man, can he throw a nice ball. Still trailing Eli and Ben (the other QBs in that draft that are good) in the Ring Count, but talent-wise he is the best.
- Caps are good, but could be better. We will make the playoffs easy. I just want to be watching Caps hockey in June.
I hope your day is going well, my friends.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
A Plea to the NFL World, In Response to Chad Dukes
I wrote this on Facebook originally, so I apologize for the formatting. Just hoping everyone might understand why we shouldn't fly off the hook about sports like Chad Dukes did. Enjoy the hyperbole!
After listening to Chad Dukes' rant about the Skins, I want something to happen: The radio announcers for all teams that have never won a Super Bowl have to go at least twice as long and twice as loud. That means you Eagles, Texans, Vikings, Bengals, Browns, Jags, Panthers, Cardinals, Seahwaks, Titans, Lions, Falcons, Chargers, and Bills. Do it!
Or, we could just limit it to teams that have won less Super Bowls than the Redskins, so add in the Saints, Bucs, Colts, Jets, Ravens, Rams, Chiefs, Bears, Dolphins, and Broncos.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Starting Anew
It has been almost a month since Dad passed away. I know that he would want me to continue this blog, so I will soon.
I have some thoughts on the NFL season (some of my predictions look awesome!), baseball free agency, the NBA and NHL seasons, and a look at Syracuse basketball all coming in the next day or two. This entire blog will now be dedicated to the memory of my Dad, and how he encouraged me to pursue my passion for sports writing. I hope you will enjoy reading it as much as I will writing it.
Cheers,
Jim
I have some thoughts on the NFL season (some of my predictions look awesome!), baseball free agency, the NBA and NHL seasons, and a look at Syracuse basketball all coming in the next day or two. This entire blog will now be dedicated to the memory of my Dad, and how he encouraged me to pursue my passion for sports writing. I hope you will enjoy reading it as much as I will writing it.
Cheers,
Jim
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
My Dad
My Dad passed away yesterday. He is the man that encouraged me to start this blog just to get my sports thoughts down. I will continue writing it in his memory, though I will not post for a while and I try to adjust to life without my hero and best friend. I love you Dad.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
CUSE 4-1!
My Syracuse Orange beat the USF bulls 13-9 to improve to 4-1 on the season, matching last year's win total. I know I am getting ahead of myself... but a bowl game isn't out of the realm of possibility. And with the way the Big East is playing, it could be any one we are eligible for. GO CUSE!
NFL Week 5 Picks
On the road this weekend. Let's see if Salem, MA provides any witchingly good picks:
- I picked the Bills last week and they let me down big time. The Jags beat the Colts. I picked the Bills to win one game, and this was it. I don't think I can stick by that anymore. Give me the Jags 14-6.
- My Bucs Bandwagon still has room on it. The Bengals lost the the Browns last week. I think Tampa's defense is good enough to stop the Bengals again, though the Cincy D against a young offense concerns me. But give me Tampa 17-14.
- As I said, the Browns won last week. I don't believe that are at the point where they cn put together two wins in a row. So give me the Falcons on the road, 21-10.
- The Rams look really good, and the Lions have terrible luck. But I think this the the Lions' game to lose. Detroit goes pass happy and wins 24-21.
- Kansas City is the last undefeated team in the NFL. The Colts are angry because they lost last week. That means that the Chiefs are going down. 30-20 Colts.
- I love my Redskins, but the Packers are great. I don't think we will be able to keep up with their passing game, which means this score could get high. In a shootout, I like Green Bay 31-28.
- Carolina is still bad, and Todd Collins doesn't make many mistakes as a backup. The Bears need to protect him and then they will win easy. Chicago 16-9.
- Kyle Orton will finally face a solid defense in the Ravens. The Ravens don't have to face a solid defense in the Broncos. I like Baltimore 24-14.
- The Giants' pass rush was insane last week, and the Texans do not pass protect well. However, the G-Men don't defend the run that well either, and Arian Foster is due for another breakout game. In a squeaker, I think the Texans win 17-16.
- I believe in Drew Brees. I do not believe in Max Hall. Saints beat the Cardinals 35-10.
- This is Oakland's chance to make a statement against the Chargers... I don't think it will happen. Rivers and the boys win 28-17.
- Dallas is back from their bye week. I think that they are still riding high from that win over the Texans. However, I think that CJ3 is due for a huge game, and I don't buy the Cowboys running defense. Titans win with the run game, 21-14.
- Sunday night is time for Kolb to prove himself, and I don't think he can. The 49ers will finally win a game, beating the Eagles in an ugly game 17-13.
- Monday night is the premier of Moss in Minnesota II: Electric Boogaloo. I think that Favre will go to Moss early and often, and the Vikings will shock the Jets 28-14.
Enjoy the games!
- I picked the Bills last week and they let me down big time. The Jags beat the Colts. I picked the Bills to win one game, and this was it. I don't think I can stick by that anymore. Give me the Jags 14-6.
- My Bucs Bandwagon still has room on it. The Bengals lost the the Browns last week. I think Tampa's defense is good enough to stop the Bengals again, though the Cincy D against a young offense concerns me. But give me Tampa 17-14.
- As I said, the Browns won last week. I don't believe that are at the point where they cn put together two wins in a row. So give me the Falcons on the road, 21-10.
- The Rams look really good, and the Lions have terrible luck. But I think this the the Lions' game to lose. Detroit goes pass happy and wins 24-21.
- Kansas City is the last undefeated team in the NFL. The Colts are angry because they lost last week. That means that the Chiefs are going down. 30-20 Colts.
- I love my Redskins, but the Packers are great. I don't think we will be able to keep up with their passing game, which means this score could get high. In a shootout, I like Green Bay 31-28.
- Carolina is still bad, and Todd Collins doesn't make many mistakes as a backup. The Bears need to protect him and then they will win easy. Chicago 16-9.
- Kyle Orton will finally face a solid defense in the Ravens. The Ravens don't have to face a solid defense in the Broncos. I like Baltimore 24-14.
- The Giants' pass rush was insane last week, and the Texans do not pass protect well. However, the G-Men don't defend the run that well either, and Arian Foster is due for another breakout game. In a squeaker, I think the Texans win 17-16.
- I believe in Drew Brees. I do not believe in Max Hall. Saints beat the Cardinals 35-10.
- This is Oakland's chance to make a statement against the Chargers... I don't think it will happen. Rivers and the boys win 28-17.
- Dallas is back from their bye week. I think that they are still riding high from that win over the Texans. However, I think that CJ3 is due for a huge game, and I don't buy the Cowboys running defense. Titans win with the run game, 21-14.
- Sunday night is time for Kolb to prove himself, and I don't think he can. The 49ers will finally win a game, beating the Eagles in an ugly game 17-13.
- Monday night is the premier of Moss in Minnesota II: Electric Boogaloo. I think that Favre will go to Moss early and often, and the Vikings will shock the Jets 28-14.
Enjoy the games!
Baseball Thoughts
Some quick thoghts on the MLB playoffs so far:
- The Rangers and Yankees are in the ALCS. Sorry Rays and Twins, but you cannot come back from 2-0 down.
- Roy Halladay is an absolute god. It is just a shame he plays for the Phillies.
- Big Time Timmy Jim Lincecum is a monster also. Looked great in the first game. The Braves are lucky Rick Ankiel bailed them out in the 11th last night.
- I hope that the Nationals are watching Carlos Pena play. He is terrible. Adam Dunn is better in every way.
- The Reds are done also. Thank god for at least one competitive series.
- The Rangers and Yankees are in the ALCS. Sorry Rays and Twins, but you cannot come back from 2-0 down.
- Roy Halladay is an absolute god. It is just a shame he plays for the Phillies.
- Big Time Timmy Jim Lincecum is a monster also. Looked great in the first game. The Braves are lucky Rick Ankiel bailed them out in the 11th last night.
- I hope that the Nationals are watching Carlos Pena play. He is terrible. Adam Dunn is better in every way.
- The Reds are done also. Thank god for at least one competitive series.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
NFL Week 4 Picks
Well, here we go again. I think I will do pretty well this week. Let's find out!
- San Francisco can't seem to do anything right, and the Falcons looked really good against the Saints last week. "Mr. Professional Throw" Matt Ryan will carve up this suddenly porous 49er defense. Give me the Falcons 28-10.
- Cleveland looked better, but they are still the Browns. The Bengals' D looked great last week... but that might have been because they were playing the Panthers. Cincy wins, and Palmer will looked better than he has all year, 31-13.
- Here is my upset pick of the week. I still don't trust Mark Sanchez, and Ryan Fitzpatrick made the Bills look very good against the Patriots last week. 17-14 Buffalo on a Rian Lindell field goal.
- Another upset pick, kind of. St. Louis looked really good last week beating my Skins without Steven Jackson. And, once again, I do not believe in the Seahawks. 24-21 Rams.
- I don't believe in the Broncos either, especially with no Knowshon. The Titans have an amazing running game, two good receivers, and adequate QB and a solid defense. Titans win 21-10.
- Green Bay is going to bounce back from their loss to Chicago. Detroit will be the unfortunate victim. 38-14 Pack Attack.
- Game of the week is Pitt hosting Baltimore. This is the reason why I have benched Joe Flacco for this week in fantasy. The Steelers defense is just too good. I think this is going to be another classic, but I am going to pick the Ravens to come out on top in a low scoring affair, 13-9.
- Carolina is terrible, and the Saints need to bounce back in New Orleans. Who Dat Nation wins big 35-7
- Jacksonville is starting to lose hope in David Garrard, and facing Peyton Manning isn't going to help matters. These games are usually pretty close, but the Colts are just too good. 24-13 Indy.
- The Texans will be without Andre Johnson, or so I think. Even if he did play, he is banged up and couldn't do that well against Nnamdi Asomugha as it is (benched him in fantasy). I think this game is a toss up, and the Texans looked really bad last week, so I am going to pick the Raiders to win on a big day from tight end Zach Miller 20-14.
- Oh... the Redskins... As much as I would like to pick you in McNabb's return to Philly, the rest of the team is just so bad that there isn't a chance it will happen. Eagles win 30-14.
- Arizona got away with one last week against Oakland. I don't think they will be as lucky against the Chargers. Rivers should be able to carve the Cardinals up to the tune of 3 touchdowns. Hopefully Ryan Matthews adds a third, and San Diego gets the win 28-13.
- Sunday night football is Bears/Giants. I am unsure of who wins this one. At some point, Jay Cutler is going to have a bad game. Call it an upset pick, but I think the Giants are due. 21-20 G-Men.
- Monday night it's the Patriots in Miami. I think Chad Henne will have a pretty good game against that poor Patriots secondary. Brady should have a pretty good go at it against the Dolphins also. I think that the Fins can pull this one out, and I have to pick them because I chose them to win the AFC East. Miami 24-17.
Enjoy the bye week, Dallas, KC, Tampa and Minnesota.
Enjoy the games, everyone!
- San Francisco can't seem to do anything right, and the Falcons looked really good against the Saints last week. "Mr. Professional Throw" Matt Ryan will carve up this suddenly porous 49er defense. Give me the Falcons 28-10.
- Cleveland looked better, but they are still the Browns. The Bengals' D looked great last week... but that might have been because they were playing the Panthers. Cincy wins, and Palmer will looked better than he has all year, 31-13.
- Here is my upset pick of the week. I still don't trust Mark Sanchez, and Ryan Fitzpatrick made the Bills look very good against the Patriots last week. 17-14 Buffalo on a Rian Lindell field goal.
- Another upset pick, kind of. St. Louis looked really good last week beating my Skins without Steven Jackson. And, once again, I do not believe in the Seahawks. 24-21 Rams.
- I don't believe in the Broncos either, especially with no Knowshon. The Titans have an amazing running game, two good receivers, and adequate QB and a solid defense. Titans win 21-10.
- Green Bay is going to bounce back from their loss to Chicago. Detroit will be the unfortunate victim. 38-14 Pack Attack.
- Game of the week is Pitt hosting Baltimore. This is the reason why I have benched Joe Flacco for this week in fantasy. The Steelers defense is just too good. I think this is going to be another classic, but I am going to pick the Ravens to come out on top in a low scoring affair, 13-9.
- Carolina is terrible, and the Saints need to bounce back in New Orleans. Who Dat Nation wins big 35-7
- Jacksonville is starting to lose hope in David Garrard, and facing Peyton Manning isn't going to help matters. These games are usually pretty close, but the Colts are just too good. 24-13 Indy.
- The Texans will be without Andre Johnson, or so I think. Even if he did play, he is banged up and couldn't do that well against Nnamdi Asomugha as it is (benched him in fantasy). I think this game is a toss up, and the Texans looked really bad last week, so I am going to pick the Raiders to win on a big day from tight end Zach Miller 20-14.
- Oh... the Redskins... As much as I would like to pick you in McNabb's return to Philly, the rest of the team is just so bad that there isn't a chance it will happen. Eagles win 30-14.
- Arizona got away with one last week against Oakland. I don't think they will be as lucky against the Chargers. Rivers should be able to carve the Cardinals up to the tune of 3 touchdowns. Hopefully Ryan Matthews adds a third, and San Diego gets the win 28-13.
- Sunday night football is Bears/Giants. I am unsure of who wins this one. At some point, Jay Cutler is going to have a bad game. Call it an upset pick, but I think the Giants are due. 21-20 G-Men.
- Monday night it's the Patriots in Miami. I think Chad Henne will have a pretty good game against that poor Patriots secondary. Brady should have a pretty good go at it against the Dolphins also. I think that the Fins can pull this one out, and I have to pick them because I chose them to win the AFC East. Miami 24-17.
Enjoy the bye week, Dallas, KC, Tampa and Minnesota.
Enjoy the games, everyone!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Big East Expansion?
The rumor is that the Big East is looking to expand, and that it has its' sights on TCU. Laugh at first... then read this column from the Fort Worth, TX paper, The Star- Telegram which gives good reasons why it could work. I am all for it, especially if Villanova comes up to FBS and this forces Notre Dame to either join or leave the conference in everything. Not only would that bring our numbers to at least 10 schools, but we would get exposure in the Texas market, a perennial national contender that isn't WVU, and TCU would get the automatic bid it needs. I'll take a beatdown from TCU each season, or the chance to upset them, if it means the Big East survives.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
NFL Week 3 Predictions
Well, I went 10-6 last week. Let's see how well I can do in Week 3.
- Tennessee got stuffed last week by Pittsburgh, and Vince Young was benched at the end of the game. I don't think they will have to rely on VY this week, since the Colts' questionable running game looked great last week against the GMen. Chris Johnson goes wild and the Titans win, 21-14.
- I am the driver of the Tampa Bay bandwagon, but Pittsburgh's defense is so good. It is going to kill me to say this, especially without a solid QB in the Steel City... so I won't! Bucs take it 10-9, Mike Williams has another TD (the game's only one).
- Carolina is bad, and Jimmy Clausen comes to a team with 1 WR and no commitment to their better-than-average running game. The Bengals make it 2 straight, 24-10.
- Baltimore finally gets its home opener in Week 3. Flacco has killed me in fantasy. The Browns are awful, so I hope this is his bounce-back game. Give me the Ravens 35-7.
- The way they have played, there is no chance that the Texans lose. But I am not always convinced God loves me, and the Cowboys being 0-3 is too good to be true. Dallas finds its offense and wins in a shootout, 31-28.
- If San Francisco loses, they will be in great danger of being left out... wait... everyone in the NFC West has at least one loss? Oh... Well then... KC is at home and has looked good, but I am not completely convinced. Give me the Niners, 17-14.
- Minnesota needs this win. Detroit does too. Minnesota needs it more. 20-17 Vikings.
- Buffalo plays the AFC East tough, but Ryan Fitzpatrick is coming in on the road, and the Patriots have to be mad with how they played against the Jets. 28-13 New England.
- The Saints are fantastic, and playing at home again. Not even voodoo can help the Falcons. 27-17 New Orleans.
- My Skins go on the road for the first time to the Rams. The secondary let up 497 passing yards last week to Matt Schaub. Sam Bradford isn't Schaub yet, and Kareem Moore is coming back from inury to solve the free safety spot. Skins win in a game that is closer than it should be, 28-21.
- Mike Vick is going to play well, and the Eagles will have even more controversy with growing Kolb trade rumors. Eagles beat the Jags 20-10.
- Oakland looks better with Big Bruce at the helm. The Cardinals don't look good at all, outside of Tim Hightower. The calls for rookie Max Hall will be a lot louder after the Black Hole descends upon Phoenix. Raiders 17-7.
- San Diego looked better last week. Ryan Matthews is injured, but Tobert looked damn good. Still don't believe in Seattle. Chargers ride Rivers' arm to a 2 touchdown win, 28-14.
- Denver has no running game, and Champ Bailey is injured. Colts win big, 38-10.
- I am also driving the Dolphins band wagon. I think they can come up with a big win on Sunday night. Braylon is a distraction for the Jets, and Revis isn't playing Brandon Marshall will have his first big game as a Fin, and Miami wins in primetime, 20-14.
- Monday Night Football feature the oldest rivalry in the NFL, Packers at Bears. I simply do not think the Bears can keep this up. Cutler needs to have one of his Mr. Hyde games soon, and I have the Packers winning this division. Let's go with Green Bay in another shootout between the 2 QBs, 31-28.
Best of luck to your teams... unless you like the Rams...
- Tennessee got stuffed last week by Pittsburgh, and Vince Young was benched at the end of the game. I don't think they will have to rely on VY this week, since the Colts' questionable running game looked great last week against the GMen. Chris Johnson goes wild and the Titans win, 21-14.
- I am the driver of the Tampa Bay bandwagon, but Pittsburgh's defense is so good. It is going to kill me to say this, especially without a solid QB in the Steel City... so I won't! Bucs take it 10-9, Mike Williams has another TD (the game's only one).
- Carolina is bad, and Jimmy Clausen comes to a team with 1 WR and no commitment to their better-than-average running game. The Bengals make it 2 straight, 24-10.
- Baltimore finally gets its home opener in Week 3. Flacco has killed me in fantasy. The Browns are awful, so I hope this is his bounce-back game. Give me the Ravens 35-7.
- The way they have played, there is no chance that the Texans lose. But I am not always convinced God loves me, and the Cowboys being 0-3 is too good to be true. Dallas finds its offense and wins in a shootout, 31-28.
- If San Francisco loses, they will be in great danger of being left out... wait... everyone in the NFC West has at least one loss? Oh... Well then... KC is at home and has looked good, but I am not completely convinced. Give me the Niners, 17-14.
- Minnesota needs this win. Detroit does too. Minnesota needs it more. 20-17 Vikings.
- Buffalo plays the AFC East tough, but Ryan Fitzpatrick is coming in on the road, and the Patriots have to be mad with how they played against the Jets. 28-13 New England.
- The Saints are fantastic, and playing at home again. Not even voodoo can help the Falcons. 27-17 New Orleans.
- My Skins go on the road for the first time to the Rams. The secondary let up 497 passing yards last week to Matt Schaub. Sam Bradford isn't Schaub yet, and Kareem Moore is coming back from inury to solve the free safety spot. Skins win in a game that is closer than it should be, 28-21.
- Mike Vick is going to play well, and the Eagles will have even more controversy with growing Kolb trade rumors. Eagles beat the Jags 20-10.
- Oakland looks better with Big Bruce at the helm. The Cardinals don't look good at all, outside of Tim Hightower. The calls for rookie Max Hall will be a lot louder after the Black Hole descends upon Phoenix. Raiders 17-7.
- San Diego looked better last week. Ryan Matthews is injured, but Tobert looked damn good. Still don't believe in Seattle. Chargers ride Rivers' arm to a 2 touchdown win, 28-14.
- Denver has no running game, and Champ Bailey is injured. Colts win big, 38-10.
- I am also driving the Dolphins band wagon. I think they can come up with a big win on Sunday night. Braylon is a distraction for the Jets, and Revis isn't playing Brandon Marshall will have his first big game as a Fin, and Miami wins in primetime, 20-14.
- Monday Night Football feature the oldest rivalry in the NFL, Packers at Bears. I simply do not think the Bears can keep this up. Cutler needs to have one of his Mr. Hyde games soon, and I have the Packers winning this division. Let's go with Green Bay in another shootout between the 2 QBs, 31-28.
Best of luck to your teams... unless you like the Rams...
Friday, September 17, 2010
NFL Week 1 Thoughts, Week 2 Predictions
First, we take a look back at the week that was in the NFL:
- Concussions are scary, and the Eagles should be fined a huge amount for letting their players go back onto the field with them. It looks like neither player will be able to go on Sunday, meaning Kevin Kolb loses his starting job to Mike Vick for the time being. Bigger concern for the Eagles, the trouble with the NFL or the trouble with a QB controversy?
- The Colts... lost... to the Texans... by a lot... I mean, Arian Foster ran all over them. Matt Schaub only completed 9 passes (which, for someone who has Andre Johnson in two fantasy leagues, meant an instant loss). The Colts need to bounce back Sunday night against the Giants, especially in the run defense (not that I want them to, since I have Ahmad Bradshaw in all 3 leagues...)
- The 49ers, Raiders, Browns and Bengals came out very very small.
- The Saints, Ravens, Chiefs and Packers came out big.
- Calvin Johnson, just tuck the ball in. There would have been no controversy if you had just brought the ball to your body and kept it there. The refs made the right call going off of the bad rule, but they shouldn't have had the chance to make it. Just bring the ball into your body and hold onto it. Establish control beyond a shadow of a doubt.
- The Jets got beat. And I mean like a government mule. The score didn't reflect it, but the Ravens brought the pain. Jets need to bounce back on offense and in discipline.
- Oh, and the REDSKINS BEAT DALLAS!
PREDICTIONS FOR WEEK 2
Trying out a new thing. I am going to guess the winner and score of each game this week, and see how I do. If I do well, I might continue.
- The Steelers won a close one against Atlanta. Dixon didn't look terrible. But Chris Johnson just finds a way to get to the end zone week after week. It will be another close one. Give me the Titans, 17-13.
- The Vikings head home after a mini-bye week, and the Dolphins are the victim of some Norse anger. Favre will look less like and old man and more like a QB. 21-14 Vikings.
- Arizona goes to Atlanta. West teams traveling to the East always seems to be a problem. That, and Derek Anderson didn't look great, even if he did get the job done. Matty Ice looked worse, but is due for a bounceback performance. Not a pretty game, but 16-10 Falcons.
- I think the Ravens are winning the AFC North, and probably going to the Super Bowl. So they can't lose the the Bengals. The Ravens' offense looks a little better and the Bengals defense doesn't. 24-14 B-More.
- Cleveland is terrible. Kansas City 28-6.
- The Cowboys need to win. The Bears stole one. Dallas 20-17
- Mike Vick gets his first win as a starter since he was a Falcon. Eagles beat a game Detroit team, 17-16.
- If Buffalo wins, someone in Green Bay will get fired. Packers 31-7.
- Matt Moore looks like he is going to play, but we don't know how effective he will be. Tampa won last week against Cleveland. I will pick my boy Mike Williams to have his first multi-touchdown game. 21-13 Bucs.
- Seattle won big at home. Denver got embarrassed on the road. I still don't buy the Seahawks, but the Broncos look lost. 10-7 Seattle.
- I picked Oakland to contend for the playoffs. They have to beat the Rams. 24-14 Raiders.
- I would love to see the Redskins finish off the Texas 2-Step 2-0, but the Texans looked too good last week. Another big day for Foster, and hopefully Andre Johnson as well. 28-17 Houston.
- The Jets have no offense. The Patriots do. 20-9 New England.
- San Diego was embarrassed by the Chiefs in the opener. This game won't be played in the rain. Chargers take the Jags, 24-13.
- I think the Manning Bowl will be a shootout. Actually, I really hope it is. Give me the Colts 35-28.
- When I made my win/loss predictions before the season, I had the Saints losing to San Fran. After last week, there is no way that can still happen unless the Saints beat themselves. Brees and the boys continue their party, 28-14.
Enjoy the games.
- Concussions are scary, and the Eagles should be fined a huge amount for letting their players go back onto the field with them. It looks like neither player will be able to go on Sunday, meaning Kevin Kolb loses his starting job to Mike Vick for the time being. Bigger concern for the Eagles, the trouble with the NFL or the trouble with a QB controversy?
- The Colts... lost... to the Texans... by a lot... I mean, Arian Foster ran all over them. Matt Schaub only completed 9 passes (which, for someone who has Andre Johnson in two fantasy leagues, meant an instant loss). The Colts need to bounce back Sunday night against the Giants, especially in the run defense (not that I want them to, since I have Ahmad Bradshaw in all 3 leagues...)
- The 49ers, Raiders, Browns and Bengals came out very very small.
- The Saints, Ravens, Chiefs and Packers came out big.
- Calvin Johnson, just tuck the ball in. There would have been no controversy if you had just brought the ball to your body and kept it there. The refs made the right call going off of the bad rule, but they shouldn't have had the chance to make it. Just bring the ball into your body and hold onto it. Establish control beyond a shadow of a doubt.
- The Jets got beat. And I mean like a government mule. The score didn't reflect it, but the Ravens brought the pain. Jets need to bounce back on offense and in discipline.
- Oh, and the REDSKINS BEAT DALLAS!
PREDICTIONS FOR WEEK 2
Trying out a new thing. I am going to guess the winner and score of each game this week, and see how I do. If I do well, I might continue.
- The Steelers won a close one against Atlanta. Dixon didn't look terrible. But Chris Johnson just finds a way to get to the end zone week after week. It will be another close one. Give me the Titans, 17-13.
- The Vikings head home after a mini-bye week, and the Dolphins are the victim of some Norse anger. Favre will look less like and old man and more like a QB. 21-14 Vikings.
- Arizona goes to Atlanta. West teams traveling to the East always seems to be a problem. That, and Derek Anderson didn't look great, even if he did get the job done. Matty Ice looked worse, but is due for a bounceback performance. Not a pretty game, but 16-10 Falcons.
- I think the Ravens are winning the AFC North, and probably going to the Super Bowl. So they can't lose the the Bengals. The Ravens' offense looks a little better and the Bengals defense doesn't. 24-14 B-More.
- Cleveland is terrible. Kansas City 28-6.
- The Cowboys need to win. The Bears stole one. Dallas 20-17
- Mike Vick gets his first win as a starter since he was a Falcon. Eagles beat a game Detroit team, 17-16.
- If Buffalo wins, someone in Green Bay will get fired. Packers 31-7.
- Matt Moore looks like he is going to play, but we don't know how effective he will be. Tampa won last week against Cleveland. I will pick my boy Mike Williams to have his first multi-touchdown game. 21-13 Bucs.
- Seattle won big at home. Denver got embarrassed on the road. I still don't buy the Seahawks, but the Broncos look lost. 10-7 Seattle.
- I picked Oakland to contend for the playoffs. They have to beat the Rams. 24-14 Raiders.
- I would love to see the Redskins finish off the Texas 2-Step 2-0, but the Texans looked too good last week. Another big day for Foster, and hopefully Andre Johnson as well. 28-17 Houston.
- The Jets have no offense. The Patriots do. 20-9 New England.
- San Diego was embarrassed by the Chiefs in the opener. This game won't be played in the rain. Chargers take the Jags, 24-13.
- I think the Manning Bowl will be a shootout. Actually, I really hope it is. Give me the Colts 35-28.
- When I made my win/loss predictions before the season, I had the Saints losing to San Fran. After last week, there is no way that can still happen unless the Saints beat themselves. Brees and the boys continue their party, 28-14.
Enjoy the games.
NHL Art
Just a quick post, stealing something from Yahoo! Sports. A fun look at some of the best goalie masks in the NHL (the season is starting in a month! GO CAPS!) Enjoy them all here.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Redskins: 1-0
After my 17th heart attack of the game, the Redskins pulled one out, 13-7, over the hated Cowboys. True, it was really the Cowboys beating themselves, but we have the win in the record books. I am very happy, even if we didn't play our best. Helps me overlook Syracuse's piss-poor performance and the Nats' 5 game losing streak. HAIL!
More later on my NFL and NCAA thoughts of the weekend.
More later on my NFL and NCAA thoughts of the weekend.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
NFL Labor Talks
I do not understand the CBA in the NFL, but Yahoo! Sports does. Here is an excellent article explaining it all. Enjoy!
Monday, September 6, 2010
NCAA Part II
-It is appropriate that my blog's colors are Blue, Orange and White. I chose those because of my Alma Mater, Syracuse University (1-0, by the way). However, tonight they are dedicated to the Boise State Broncos, who traveled across the country, to a "neutral site" with 80,000 opposing fans and beat the Virginia Tech Hokies 33-30. It was a great game. Boise took a 17-0 lead, only to watch that evaporate. However, trailing 30-26 with 2 minutes left, Kellen Moore (HEISMAN!) led his team downfield and tore out the Hokies' heart. It was beautiful football. Not just because I hate the ACC, but because no East Coast team has the stones to go to Boise and play the Broncs on the smurf turf. Count me in as a guy that wants to see Boise in the BCS Championship game.
- The Tulsa-ECU game was an instant classic. Love Hail Mary finishes.
- Forgot to mention this before, but Jacksonville State OLE'd Ole Miss. It was pretty fantastic.
Looking ahead to Week 2-
- Notre Dame/Michigan. It could be the tale of two coaches. RichRod fighting for his job, Brian Kelly perhaps starting a new dynasty. You know I will be watching.
- Penn State/Alabama. The Lions need to prove to me they are worthy. Taking out the #1 team in the country would do that. I say Saban gets it done, though, and JoePa won't have a National Title this year.
- Miami/Ohio State. It's a game where I will be rooting for some kind of natural disaster. Props to Miami for leaving the South for it, unlike the rest of the ACC/SEC. However, Ohio State just doesn't lose at home.
- USF/Florida. I think this is the game where it all comes crashing down. Florida looked very off against Miami (OH). Any time the USF players get to play against the schools that didn't offer them a scholarship, like UF, FSU and Miami, they seem to play harder. I think the Bulls pull a big upset.
- FSU/Oklahoma. Tons of big games this weekend, huh? Jimbo Fisher takes on Bob Stoops in Norman. It will be interesting to see if the new man at FSU can think up a defense for the OU spread. Not sure who I like in this one, but it should be entertaining.
- Syracuse/Washington. I am hoping that we win this game, cause it should lead to a 4-0 start. However, Jake Locker is really good, and we have to go across the country. So, really, I expect to lose, and pray I am surprised.
Might make some more picks during the week.
- The Tulsa-ECU game was an instant classic. Love Hail Mary finishes.
- Forgot to mention this before, but Jacksonville State OLE'd Ole Miss. It was pretty fantastic.
Looking ahead to Week 2-
- Notre Dame/Michigan. It could be the tale of two coaches. RichRod fighting for his job, Brian Kelly perhaps starting a new dynasty. You know I will be watching.
- Penn State/Alabama. The Lions need to prove to me they are worthy. Taking out the #1 team in the country would do that. I say Saban gets it done, though, and JoePa won't have a National Title this year.
- Miami/Ohio State. It's a game where I will be rooting for some kind of natural disaster. Props to Miami for leaving the South for it, unlike the rest of the ACC/SEC. However, Ohio State just doesn't lose at home.
- USF/Florida. I think this is the game where it all comes crashing down. Florida looked very off against Miami (OH). Any time the USF players get to play against the schools that didn't offer them a scholarship, like UF, FSU and Miami, they seem to play harder. I think the Bulls pull a big upset.
- FSU/Oklahoma. Tons of big games this weekend, huh? Jimbo Fisher takes on Bob Stoops in Norman. It will be interesting to see if the new man at FSU can think up a defense for the OU spread. Not sure who I like in this one, but it should be entertaining.
- Syracuse/Washington. I am hoping that we win this game, cause it should lead to a 4-0 start. However, Jake Locker is really good, and we have to go across the country. So, really, I expect to lose, and pray I am surprised.
Might make some more picks during the week.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Some NCAA Football Thoughts
Just some thoughts on the NCAA opening weekend so far:
- Notre Dame won ugly, but beat Purdue. They showed flashes of brilliance, but need to learn how to close teams out.
- Ohio State looked solid, and will be at the top for most of the season.
- Michigan looked very impressive, dismantling UCONN.
- Pitt disappointed big time in their loss to Utah. I won't call it an upset, but they were gutless down the stretch with their play calling. They went for OT instead of the win, and ended up losing.
- USC was very impressive... but since they are ineligible for the post-season, it doesn't matter what they do.
- Arizona cold steal the Pac-10
More later.
- Notre Dame won ugly, but beat Purdue. They showed flashes of brilliance, but need to learn how to close teams out.
- Ohio State looked solid, and will be at the top for most of the season.
- Michigan looked very impressive, dismantling UCONN.
- Pitt disappointed big time in their loss to Utah. I won't call it an upset, but they were gutless down the stretch with their play calling. They went for OT instead of the win, and ended up losing.
- USC was very impressive... but since they are ineligible for the post-season, it doesn't matter what they do.
- Arizona cold steal the Pac-10
More later.
Monday, August 30, 2010
A Lost Weekend
I was at a wedding in West Virginia this weekend, so I missed an entire weekend of sports. Here are some of the things I heard about-
- GAH! Strasburg needs Tommy John's... (For those of you that do not know, this procedure involves replacing a torn ligament in a person's elbow with a new ligament, often a cadaver's achillies tendon, which in many cases makes the elbow much stronger. It is a one time operation.) You know, 5 years ago this would have been devastating. However, there is a growing list of first class pitchers who have had the operation and are now back and (possibly) better than ever: Chris Carpenter, Jaime Garcia, Josh Johnson, AJ Burnett, Francisco Liriano and Tim Hudson all had Tommy John's. Stras's own teammate, Jordan Zimmermann, recently came back from the surgery throwing at the same speed he did before needing it. So while I am upset that we will be without my man-crush for the 2011 season, I believe that he will be able to come back strong, still have his command and nasty breaking pitches, and still have the heat. Some say you can throw even harder post-TJ. If so, watch out for that 105 mph cutter, National League.
- My Nats also signed Livan Hernandez to a 1-year extension. I love me some Livan, and if he is willing to keep eating up innings and take 1 year incentive-heavy deals, then we could keep him around for three more seasons.
- John Lannan pitched a beauty as we somehow took 3 of 4 from the Cardinals. Sending him down to the minors was probably the best thing for his career. He looks excellent now.
- Manny went to Chicago. The White Soxs didn't have to give anything up. They aren't even paying him. Why not take him on? They are in second anyway, and he might be the spark they need to catch the Twins.
- Lots of NFL stuff from over the weekend, mainly involving the stupid new umpire placement and injuries. McNabb will be fine. A-Rog and the Packers look great. Peyton will still be fine no matter where the umpire stands. The Ravens are a nasty team.
- Sam Bradford looked solid, and found his new favorite weapon twice in the end zone- rookie tight end Michael Hoomanawanui. Say it with me kids- Ho-OH-ma-Now-uh-noo-ee.
- US Open is starting today- my picks are Maria "One of my many girlfriends" Sharapova and Andy Murray, though it will probably end up being Nadal vs Federer for the first time and some other woman whose name I cannot pronounce.
- Michelle Wie won the Canadian Open. She has now won in Canada and Mexico. Get a major in the US and all the hype will be worth it.
- The Washington Mystics won the Eastern Conference regular season... Then, like the Washington Capitals, lost in the first round of the playoffs.
- College football starts on Thursday! Cuse plays Akron on Friday. Not expecting big things from my Orangemen this year, but some improvement would be nice.
More musings later.
- GAH! Strasburg needs Tommy John's... (For those of you that do not know, this procedure involves replacing a torn ligament in a person's elbow with a new ligament, often a cadaver's achillies tendon, which in many cases makes the elbow much stronger. It is a one time operation.) You know, 5 years ago this would have been devastating. However, there is a growing list of first class pitchers who have had the operation and are now back and (possibly) better than ever: Chris Carpenter, Jaime Garcia, Josh Johnson, AJ Burnett, Francisco Liriano and Tim Hudson all had Tommy John's. Stras's own teammate, Jordan Zimmermann, recently came back from the surgery throwing at the same speed he did before needing it. So while I am upset that we will be without my man-crush for the 2011 season, I believe that he will be able to come back strong, still have his command and nasty breaking pitches, and still have the heat. Some say you can throw even harder post-TJ. If so, watch out for that 105 mph cutter, National League.
- My Nats also signed Livan Hernandez to a 1-year extension. I love me some Livan, and if he is willing to keep eating up innings and take 1 year incentive-heavy deals, then we could keep him around for three more seasons.
- John Lannan pitched a beauty as we somehow took 3 of 4 from the Cardinals. Sending him down to the minors was probably the best thing for his career. He looks excellent now.
- Manny went to Chicago. The White Soxs didn't have to give anything up. They aren't even paying him. Why not take him on? They are in second anyway, and he might be the spark they need to catch the Twins.
- Lots of NFL stuff from over the weekend, mainly involving the stupid new umpire placement and injuries. McNabb will be fine. A-Rog and the Packers look great. Peyton will still be fine no matter where the umpire stands. The Ravens are a nasty team.
- Sam Bradford looked solid, and found his new favorite weapon twice in the end zone- rookie tight end Michael Hoomanawanui. Say it with me kids- Ho-OH-ma-Now-uh-noo-ee.
- US Open is starting today- my picks are Maria "One of my many girlfriends" Sharapova and Andy Murray, though it will probably end up being Nadal vs Federer for the first time and some other woman whose name I cannot pronounce.
- Michelle Wie won the Canadian Open. She has now won in Canada and Mexico. Get a major in the US and all the hype will be worth it.
- The Washington Mystics won the Eastern Conference regular season... Then, like the Washington Capitals, lost in the first round of the playoffs.
- College football starts on Thursday! Cuse plays Akron on Friday. Not expecting big things from my Orangemen this year, but some improvement would be nice.
More musings later.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
NFL Greats: By the Numbers
Very interesting thing just put up on SI.com. It is a list of the greatest NFL players ever to wear each jersey number, 00-99. The links are here for 00-49 and here for 50-99. Enjoy!
Monday, August 23, 2010
Random Musings and Links
Just some random notes on the goings-on in the world of sports-
- Nick Mangold of the New York Jets is about to get paid. They have now signed 1/2 of their core four, leaving out only Revis and Harris. Shame those two might be the most important of the 4, especially for a defensive coach.
- Brett Lorenzo Favre came back for the Vikings and was in for 4 plays. He left after getting flattened by Patrick Willis, my choice for best defensive player in football. Welcome back Brett. Also... Lorenzo?
- My boy Strasburg might be done for the year. If he is, according to ESPN's Jayson Stark, then his K per Batter faced rate would be historic. He has faced 274, and has struck out 92. That is 33.6%. He struck out a third of the batters he faced. Only Pedro and The Big Unit finished a season with a higher rate.
- I am sorry, but I am very sick of the Jets, and the season hasn't started yet. For a team that backed into the playoffs, they sure do talk a lot.
- Call it Stockholm syndrome I guess, but Kwame Brown is going back to work for the man that ruined his career, Michael Jordan. I don't understand it. Maybe he wants to prove he can play... if he ever sees the floor.
- Jordan Zimmermann will be back in the bigs this Thursday to take Strasburg's rotation spot. I love that the Nats have the depth to do this. Makes me very happy.
- Sammy Sosa thinks his jersey, #21, should be retired in Chicago. Instead, it is on a rookie, and he is not happy about it.
- Johnny Damon was put on waivers by the Tigers... then claimed by the Red Soxs. Maybe they regret getting rid of the head idiot and locker room leader of the 04 World Series championship team.
- Lou Piniella should be in the Hall of Fame, 5 years from now when he is eligible. Seems pretty obvious to me.
- Almost football season! Looking forward to September 4, 6 pm, Syracuse-Akron! Go Orange! The first month will give me hope, and hopefully a 3-1 record.
- Bengals look good. 49ers look good. Raiders look good. Ravens look good.
- Redskins can use Vincent Jackson. The Chargers are trying to get a 2nd Round pick. Think they will take one from 2012?
Will have some more notes about tonight's MNF game, Cardinals vs Titans, after the game. Enjoy!
- Nick Mangold of the New York Jets is about to get paid. They have now signed 1/2 of their core four, leaving out only Revis and Harris. Shame those two might be the most important of the 4, especially for a defensive coach.
- Brett Lorenzo Favre came back for the Vikings and was in for 4 plays. He left after getting flattened by Patrick Willis, my choice for best defensive player in football. Welcome back Brett. Also... Lorenzo?
- My boy Strasburg might be done for the year. If he is, according to ESPN's Jayson Stark, then his K per Batter faced rate would be historic. He has faced 274, and has struck out 92. That is 33.6%. He struck out a third of the batters he faced. Only Pedro and The Big Unit finished a season with a higher rate.
- I am sorry, but I am very sick of the Jets, and the season hasn't started yet. For a team that backed into the playoffs, they sure do talk a lot.
- Call it Stockholm syndrome I guess, but Kwame Brown is going back to work for the man that ruined his career, Michael Jordan. I don't understand it. Maybe he wants to prove he can play... if he ever sees the floor.
- Jordan Zimmermann will be back in the bigs this Thursday to take Strasburg's rotation spot. I love that the Nats have the depth to do this. Makes me very happy.
- Sammy Sosa thinks his jersey, #21, should be retired in Chicago. Instead, it is on a rookie, and he is not happy about it.
- Johnny Damon was put on waivers by the Tigers... then claimed by the Red Soxs. Maybe they regret getting rid of the head idiot and locker room leader of the 04 World Series championship team.
- Lou Piniella should be in the Hall of Fame, 5 years from now when he is eligible. Seems pretty obvious to me.
- Almost football season! Looking forward to September 4, 6 pm, Syracuse-Akron! Go Orange! The first month will give me hope, and hopefully a 3-1 record.
- Bengals look good. 49ers look good. Raiders look good. Ravens look good.
- Redskins can use Vincent Jackson. The Chargers are trying to get a 2nd Round pick. Think they will take one from 2012?
Will have some more notes about tonight's MNF game, Cardinals vs Titans, after the game. Enjoy!
Friday, August 20, 2010
The WAC is Wack...
So, the Western Athletic Conference seems to be dying. It's three best members, Boise State, Fresno State and Nevada, have all announced that they are leaving to join the Mountain West Conference, which is losing Utah and BYU. Just more craziness over conference expansion, really. But, in this constant quest for TV revenue and the constant oversight of academics or what is best for the student, the six teams that are being left behind in the WAC are out of luck. They will just be forced to latch on to a few other teams and make up a new minor conference that will inevitably get raided in a few years when one of their teams get good enough. I am rapidly getting tired of the whole expansion movement. The conferences should remain as they are now for football, which is the sport driving everything. Gets me almost as annoyed as that Favre gentleman...
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Video of the Pie!
Thank the good Lord for Twitter and for the NatsTown feed. Here is the video of Mike Rizzo getting pied in the face!
BRYCE HARPER!
We did it again! Mike Rizzo and the boys brought our #1 pick in and delivered unto us a contract. We get the most heralded hitter in baseball since Mark Teixiera, along with Sammy Solis and AJ Coles, both who signed today, all for over $1 million less than what we paid Stras last year. I love it.
And how do we celebrate? Simple. Nats President Stan Kasten hits our fantastic GM with the CELEBRATORY PIE IN THE FACE!
These guys know how much fun this team can be with all of these new Nats. Rizzo might be temporarily blinded, but it looks like he is still smiling.
Now that this business is done, gentlemen, let's work on getting Dunn an extension, then maybe adding a big free agent like Carl Crawford. We are heading in the right direction boys. This is going to be real fun real soon! GO NATS!
And how do we celebrate? Simple. Nats President Stan Kasten hits our fantastic GM with the CELEBRATORY PIE IN THE FACE!
These guys know how much fun this team can be with all of these new Nats. Rizzo might be temporarily blinded, but it looks like he is still smiling.
Now that this business is done, gentlemen, let's work on getting Dunn an extension, then maybe adding a big free agent like Carl Crawford. We are heading in the right direction boys. This is going to be real fun real soon! GO NATS!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
NFL PREVIEW: AFC WEST
Now it is time to make my boldest predictions. They are in the AFC West.
Predicted Order of Finish:
1. San Diego Chargers 11-5
2. Oakland Raiders 10-6
2. Kansas City Chiefs 10-6
4. Denver Broncos 6-10
San Diego
Pros: Another year for the AFC West's best team. Phillip Rivers is coming back, and Ryan Matthews will be an upgrade at running back.
Questions: No Vincent Jackson, no Marcus McNeil. Big, big issues. If they can settle those before the season starts, they should be able to win the West.
Oakland
Pros: Jason Campbell and their defense. They dumped the biggest draft bust in history, JaMarcus Russell. They were a darn good team without him last year. I agree with Al Davis- this team will improve big time this year. Fantasy sleeper- Michael Bush, RB
Questions: Someone needs to catch passes. We don't know who right now. We aren't sure who is the starting running back either. They drafted Bruce Campbell to help protect Jason Campbell. Maybe they can get a soup deal together if they do well.
Kansas City
Pros: I love the addition of Charlie Weis, cause the offense was never the problem at Notre Dame. He should help Matt Cassel develop along with DeWayne Bowe and Jamaal Charles. Adding Thomas Jones bring some much needed leadership to the team as well.
Questions: Much like Weis's Notre Dame teams, the entire D needs work. They were ranked 22nd in pass D and 31st in rush. Eric Berry might help in both, especially if he is the next Ed Reed like everyone says. They need Tyson Jackson and Glenn Dorsey to live up to expectations.
Denver
Pros: They still have Champ Bailey, and Jesus really likes Tim Tebow.
Questions: They traded away their best (and only) receiver. All of their running backs are injured. They traded up to draft a project QB. They collapsed at the end of last year. Ryan Clady is dinged up. Elvis Dumervil is missing half the season. It is going to be rough in the mile-high city. Unless, you know, Tebow uses the power of Christ to heal all his teammates.
The Chargers, once again, win the division, and will more than likely do nothing in the playoffs. The Raiders and Chiefs will both be in the Wild Card mix. Denver will need to figure out how to build a team around St. Timothy.
Predicted Order of Finish:
1. San Diego Chargers 11-5
2. Oakland Raiders 10-6
2. Kansas City Chiefs 10-6
4. Denver Broncos 6-10
San Diego
Pros: Another year for the AFC West's best team. Phillip Rivers is coming back, and Ryan Matthews will be an upgrade at running back.
Questions: No Vincent Jackson, no Marcus McNeil. Big, big issues. If they can settle those before the season starts, they should be able to win the West.
Oakland
Pros: Jason Campbell and their defense. They dumped the biggest draft bust in history, JaMarcus Russell. They were a darn good team without him last year. I agree with Al Davis- this team will improve big time this year. Fantasy sleeper- Michael Bush, RB
Questions: Someone needs to catch passes. We don't know who right now. We aren't sure who is the starting running back either. They drafted Bruce Campbell to help protect Jason Campbell. Maybe they can get a soup deal together if they do well.
Kansas City
Pros: I love the addition of Charlie Weis, cause the offense was never the problem at Notre Dame. He should help Matt Cassel develop along with DeWayne Bowe and Jamaal Charles. Adding Thomas Jones bring some much needed leadership to the team as well.
Questions: Much like Weis's Notre Dame teams, the entire D needs work. They were ranked 22nd in pass D and 31st in rush. Eric Berry might help in both, especially if he is the next Ed Reed like everyone says. They need Tyson Jackson and Glenn Dorsey to live up to expectations.
Denver
Pros: They still have Champ Bailey, and Jesus really likes Tim Tebow.
Questions: They traded away their best (and only) receiver. All of their running backs are injured. They traded up to draft a project QB. They collapsed at the end of last year. Ryan Clady is dinged up. Elvis Dumervil is missing half the season. It is going to be rough in the mile-high city. Unless, you know, Tebow uses the power of Christ to heal all his teammates.
The Chargers, once again, win the division, and will more than likely do nothing in the playoffs. The Raiders and Chiefs will both be in the Wild Card mix. Denver will need to figure out how to build a team around St. Timothy.
NFL PREVIEW: AFC SOUTH
The always tough AFC South, with a familiar face at the top of it-
Predicted Order of Finish:
1. Indianapolis Colts 13-3
2. Houston Texans 9-7
3. Tennessee Titans 8-8
4. Jacksonville Jaguars 3-13
Indianapolis
Pros: Peyton Manning. Enough said.
Questions: Jeff Saturday will be out the first 2 weeks. Dwight Freeney and Bob Sanders need to stay healthy. Other than that, there is a chance they have a Super Bowl hangover.
Houston
Pros: Andre Johnson is a beast. Their D is solid as well. They are deep at RB, though none of them are stars right now.
Questions: They need to protect Matt Schaub, and one of their running backs needs to take over and become the starter.
Tennessee
Pros: Their running game might be the best in the league.
Questions: Can Vince Young progress. Will any of their wideouts, like Kenny Britt step up? Can their replace the production and leadership of Keith Bulluck?
Jacksonville
Pros: MJD and Mike Sims-Walker
Questions: Pretty much everything else. Will David Garrard lose his starting spot? Is Jack Del Rio's job safe?
The Colts win over 12 games again. Death, Taxes and Peyton going to the playoffs. They always happen. Houston will have a winning record, but will miss the playoffs again. They need a solid #1 RB to take the next step. The Titans will go as Vince goes, and Jacksonville will need to address more problems in the offseason.
Predicted Order of Finish:
1. Indianapolis Colts 13-3
2. Houston Texans 9-7
3. Tennessee Titans 8-8
4. Jacksonville Jaguars 3-13
Indianapolis
Pros: Peyton Manning. Enough said.
Questions: Jeff Saturday will be out the first 2 weeks. Dwight Freeney and Bob Sanders need to stay healthy. Other than that, there is a chance they have a Super Bowl hangover.
Houston
Pros: Andre Johnson is a beast. Their D is solid as well. They are deep at RB, though none of them are stars right now.
Questions: They need to protect Matt Schaub, and one of their running backs needs to take over and become the starter.
Tennessee
Pros: Their running game might be the best in the league.
Questions: Can Vince Young progress. Will any of their wideouts, like Kenny Britt step up? Can their replace the production and leadership of Keith Bulluck?
Jacksonville
Pros: MJD and Mike Sims-Walker
Questions: Pretty much everything else. Will David Garrard lose his starting spot? Is Jack Del Rio's job safe?
The Colts win over 12 games again. Death, Taxes and Peyton going to the playoffs. They always happen. Houston will have a winning record, but will miss the playoffs again. They need a solid #1 RB to take the next step. The Titans will go as Vince goes, and Jacksonville will need to address more problems in the offseason.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
NFL PREVIEW: AFC NORTH
Here is the mighty AFC North.
Predicted Order of Finish:
1. Baltimore Ravens 13-3
2. Cincinnati Bengals 10-6
2. Pittsburgh Steelers 10-6
4. Cleveland Browns 4-12
Baltimore
Pros: They finally got some real offensive weapons. Ray Rice and Joe Flacco are stars in the making, and Anquan Bolden is the #1 receiver that they have never had. Coupled with Derrick Mason and Donte Stallworth, along with a healthy Todd Heap and two rookie tight ends, the Ravens have weapons out the wazoo. They still have a great front 7, with a D-Line anchored by Haloti Ngata, and Ray Lewis leading a group of LBs that love to hit. I think Jameel McClain and Terrell Suggs will be a great pass rush. The Ravens will be dominant this year.
Questions: They have a ton of injuries in their secondary. They traded a backup QB for former JFLAN teammate Doug Dutch, who has yet to play in a regular season game. Good news, Doug might see playing time. Bad news, they lost one starting corner, Ed Reed still isn't 100%, nor is Fabian Washington. They also have a kicker battle going on.
Cincinnati
Pros: Tons of wideouts, including TO-choCinco. Jordan Shipley looked like a solid return man and 3rd or 4th option in the Hall of Fame game. Cedric Benson should be in line for another 1,000 yards, and Carson Palmer just has to get the ball out or hand it off fast, then get out of the way. Their D should be solid also, with a rejuvenated Adams Jones at nickle corner.
Questions: If everyone behaves, then the only con is their kicking situation. If people misbehave, then all hell could break loose, and Marvin Lewis could go on a killing spree.
Pittsburgh
Pros: Their D is completely healthy, which makes them one of the toughest teams to play in the NFL. Rashard Mendenhall is the starter on his own, and should be productive running behind a revamped O-line.
Questions: Big Ben is missing some time. The biggest question is if Byron Leftwich can sub in for the first 4 games (I imagine Goodell will let him back after 4) and keep the Steelers above water. They also have to replace the production of Santonio Holmes.
Cleveland
Pros: Eh... They have some leadership now with Jake Delhomme, and Josh Cribbs and Jerome Harrison are explosive playmakers.
Questions: Pretty much everything else. Need some more receiver help, and that D needs to be able to shut down opponents on a weekly basis. I am sure the Walrus aka Mike Holmgren will have some tricks up his sleeve.
The Ravens own the division, and the Bengals and Steelers will both be in the mix for Wild Card births. The Browns are slowly getting better, but are still some seasons away.
Predicted Order of Finish:
1. Baltimore Ravens 13-3
2. Cincinnati Bengals 10-6
2. Pittsburgh Steelers 10-6
4. Cleveland Browns 4-12
Baltimore
Pros: They finally got some real offensive weapons. Ray Rice and Joe Flacco are stars in the making, and Anquan Bolden is the #1 receiver that they have never had. Coupled with Derrick Mason and Donte Stallworth, along with a healthy Todd Heap and two rookie tight ends, the Ravens have weapons out the wazoo. They still have a great front 7, with a D-Line anchored by Haloti Ngata, and Ray Lewis leading a group of LBs that love to hit. I think Jameel McClain and Terrell Suggs will be a great pass rush. The Ravens will be dominant this year.
Questions: They have a ton of injuries in their secondary. They traded a backup QB for former JFLAN teammate Doug Dutch, who has yet to play in a regular season game. Good news, Doug might see playing time. Bad news, they lost one starting corner, Ed Reed still isn't 100%, nor is Fabian Washington. They also have a kicker battle going on.
Cincinnati
Pros: Tons of wideouts, including TO-choCinco. Jordan Shipley looked like a solid return man and 3rd or 4th option in the Hall of Fame game. Cedric Benson should be in line for another 1,000 yards, and Carson Palmer just has to get the ball out or hand it off fast, then get out of the way. Their D should be solid also, with a rejuvenated Adams Jones at nickle corner.
Questions: If everyone behaves, then the only con is their kicking situation. If people misbehave, then all hell could break loose, and Marvin Lewis could go on a killing spree.
Pittsburgh
Pros: Their D is completely healthy, which makes them one of the toughest teams to play in the NFL. Rashard Mendenhall is the starter on his own, and should be productive running behind a revamped O-line.
Questions: Big Ben is missing some time. The biggest question is if Byron Leftwich can sub in for the first 4 games (I imagine Goodell will let him back after 4) and keep the Steelers above water. They also have to replace the production of Santonio Holmes.
Cleveland
Pros: Eh... They have some leadership now with Jake Delhomme, and Josh Cribbs and Jerome Harrison are explosive playmakers.
Questions: Pretty much everything else. Need some more receiver help, and that D needs to be able to shut down opponents on a weekly basis. I am sure the Walrus aka Mike Holmgren will have some tricks up his sleeve.
The Ravens own the division, and the Bengals and Steelers will both be in the mix for Wild Card births. The Browns are slowly getting better, but are still some seasons away.
NFL PREVIEW: AFC EAST
We start the AFC, where I have most of my bold predictions, with the AFC East
Predicted Order of Finish:
1. Miami Dolphins 10-6
2. New England Patriots 9-7
3. New York Jets 8-8
4. Buffalo Bills 1-15
Miami Dolphins
Pros: I love the Brandon Marshall trade, because this was a solid team without a go to weapon. They have that now in Marshall. They have a good young QB and O-line. Their tight ends, Anthony Fasano and Gonzaga High School's own Joey Haynos, fly under the radar but are solid receivers and blockers.
Questions: Its all about health, especially in the backfield. They were 4th in the league in rushing last year, and if Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams can do that again, then the team will win the AFC East.
New England Patriots
Pros: They still have Tom Brady, Randy Moss, Bill Belichick, Vince Wilfork and Jerod Mayo.
Questions: Is their change from old to young on D finally going to take hold? Is Wes Welker as healthy as he looks? Is their O-Line healthy and happy? Do they have any running game?
New York Jets
Pros: Swagger, thanks to Bart Scott and Rex Ryan. They also are extremely deep at WR.
Questions: Aside from Bart Scott and Mark Sanchez, everyone seems to be angry with the team. They may not play with Revis the entire year. Harris wants to get paid. Mangold wants to get paid. Rex Ryan is now fed up with all four of these guys. I think this cloud hangs over them long enough to effect them negatively. I also think Sanchez has a sophomore slump, and they miss Thomas Jones more than they thought they would.
Buffalo Bills
Pros: Umm... Wait... Well, there is the... no... How about... no... I mean... They have three running backs... I guess that is good, right? And Lee Evans isn't bad... And Roscoe Parrish can still return kicks pretty well... corners aren't bad... Oh, and Brian Moorman is one of the best punters ever... So.. you know... Not everything is bad.
Questions: EVERYTHING IS BAD! No quarterback, no offensive line, no defensive line, quesitonable safeties, no #2 WR. They fired their coach, could have gotten Brian Billick, and instead picked Chan Gailey, who is now installing a new offense and defense without the necessary pieces. No good news in Buffalo. Oh, and they probably won't want to pay Jake Locker or Andrew Luck the money a #1 pick QB gets. Good luck, Western NY. Head to Anchor Bar and drown your sorrows in wing and beer. I hope I am wrong. Really. I know enough Bills fans where I have come to like them. But this does not look good.
New England didn't improve, and the Jets are fighting and will be hurt by Sanchez's maturation process. Buffalo just needs to wait for the Draft and Sabres season. I think the Dolphins are the only team coming out of this division.
Predicted Order of Finish:
1. Miami Dolphins 10-6
2. New England Patriots 9-7
3. New York Jets 8-8
4. Buffalo Bills 1-15
Miami Dolphins
Pros: I love the Brandon Marshall trade, because this was a solid team without a go to weapon. They have that now in Marshall. They have a good young QB and O-line. Their tight ends, Anthony Fasano and Gonzaga High School's own Joey Haynos, fly under the radar but are solid receivers and blockers.
Questions: Its all about health, especially in the backfield. They were 4th in the league in rushing last year, and if Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams can do that again, then the team will win the AFC East.
New England Patriots
Pros: They still have Tom Brady, Randy Moss, Bill Belichick, Vince Wilfork and Jerod Mayo.
Questions: Is their change from old to young on D finally going to take hold? Is Wes Welker as healthy as he looks? Is their O-Line healthy and happy? Do they have any running game?
New York Jets
Pros: Swagger, thanks to Bart Scott and Rex Ryan. They also are extremely deep at WR.
Questions: Aside from Bart Scott and Mark Sanchez, everyone seems to be angry with the team. They may not play with Revis the entire year. Harris wants to get paid. Mangold wants to get paid. Rex Ryan is now fed up with all four of these guys. I think this cloud hangs over them long enough to effect them negatively. I also think Sanchez has a sophomore slump, and they miss Thomas Jones more than they thought they would.
Buffalo Bills
Pros: Umm... Wait... Well, there is the... no... How about... no... I mean... They have three running backs... I guess that is good, right? And Lee Evans isn't bad... And Roscoe Parrish can still return kicks pretty well... corners aren't bad... Oh, and Brian Moorman is one of the best punters ever... So.. you know... Not everything is bad.
Questions: EVERYTHING IS BAD! No quarterback, no offensive line, no defensive line, quesitonable safeties, no #2 WR. They fired their coach, could have gotten Brian Billick, and instead picked Chan Gailey, who is now installing a new offense and defense without the necessary pieces. No good news in Buffalo. Oh, and they probably won't want to pay Jake Locker or Andrew Luck the money a #1 pick QB gets. Good luck, Western NY. Head to Anchor Bar and drown your sorrows in wing and beer. I hope I am wrong. Really. I know enough Bills fans where I have come to like them. But this does not look good.
New England didn't improve, and the Jets are fighting and will be hurt by Sanchez's maturation process. Buffalo just needs to wait for the Draft and Sabres season. I think the Dolphins are the only team coming out of this division.
NFL PREVIEW: NFC WEST
Wrapping up the NFC out in the NFC West
Predicted Order of Finish:
1. San Francisco 49ers 12-4
2. Arizona Cardinals 8-8
3. Seattle Seahawks 5-11
4. St. Louis Rams 2-14
San Francisco
Pros: They have inherited Mike Singletary's swagger. They have Patrick Willis, Frank Gore, Vernon Davis and Michael Crabtree. They added two starters on the O-Line in the draft. The Cards are down, so the division is theirs for the taking.
Questions: It all comes down to Alex Smith. Can he hold on to the starting job? If not, is David Carr ready to take over?
Arizona
Pros: They still have Larry Fitzgerald, Early Doucet and Steve Breaston.
Questions: Matt Leinart might be the biggest question mark in the NFL. If he can't do what Kurt Warner did, the Cards are doomed. They lost some key free agents and still have a questionable running game.
Seattle
Pros: They have a new coach and a great young playmaker in Golden Tate.
Questions: Hasslebeck's age, their running game, the health of their other wideouts, and their defense are just the start.
St. Louis
Pros: They have Sam Bradford now. Mardy Gilyard could be good. Stephen Jackson is a horse.
Questions: Everything else. They are at least 2 years away.
The 49ers win the division, but lose to the Saints during the season, meaning they get bumped to the #3 seed. Arizona will need to decide if they want to go forward with Leinart or not. Seattle will draft Hasselbeck's heir apparent in the offseason, and the Rams will need to draft some more weapons, D and protection for their franchise.
Predicted Order of Finish:
1. San Francisco 49ers 12-4
2. Arizona Cardinals 8-8
3. Seattle Seahawks 5-11
4. St. Louis Rams 2-14
San Francisco
Pros: They have inherited Mike Singletary's swagger. They have Patrick Willis, Frank Gore, Vernon Davis and Michael Crabtree. They added two starters on the O-Line in the draft. The Cards are down, so the division is theirs for the taking.
Questions: It all comes down to Alex Smith. Can he hold on to the starting job? If not, is David Carr ready to take over?
Arizona
Pros: They still have Larry Fitzgerald, Early Doucet and Steve Breaston.
Questions: Matt Leinart might be the biggest question mark in the NFL. If he can't do what Kurt Warner did, the Cards are doomed. They lost some key free agents and still have a questionable running game.
Seattle
Pros: They have a new coach and a great young playmaker in Golden Tate.
Questions: Hasslebeck's age, their running game, the health of their other wideouts, and their defense are just the start.
St. Louis
Pros: They have Sam Bradford now. Mardy Gilyard could be good. Stephen Jackson is a horse.
Questions: Everything else. They are at least 2 years away.
The 49ers win the division, but lose to the Saints during the season, meaning they get bumped to the #3 seed. Arizona will need to decide if they want to go forward with Leinart or not. Seattle will draft Hasselbeck's heir apparent in the offseason, and the Rams will need to draft some more weapons, D and protection for their franchise.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
NFL PREVIEW: NFC SOUTH
Here is the NFC South
Predicted Order of Finish:
1. New Orleans Saints 12-4
2. Atlanta Falcons 9-7
3. Carolina Panters 7-9
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 5-11
New Orleans
Pros: They are the Super Bowl Champs. Brees is still there. WHO DAT!?
Questions: Will they have a SB hangover? Can they defend their title? Can Brees beat the Madden Curse?
Atlanta
Pros: They have a ton of weapons, and Harry Douglas might be a great Fantasy sleeper at WR. Michael Turner is due for a bounce back year. They also signed Dunta Robinson to try to control the likes of Marques Colston and Steve Smith.
Questions: Everything goes down hill if "Mr. Professional Throw" Matt Ryan doesn't develop into a big time QB. He is behind Flacco in that draft class right now.
Carolina
Pros: They have a great running game, and Steve Smith is a game changer when healthy
Questions: Who is their QB, and for how long? Who plays opposite Smith? Who replaces Julius Peppers?
Tampa Bay
Pros: Call me crazy, but I love the Bucs' youth. I think they will compete in 2 years. I especially love Gerald McCoy, as well as their young receivers Arrelious Benn and Syracuse University's own Mike Williams, who is already listed as their #1. Ronde Barber is still back there giving orders as well. And Tanard Jackson, another Orangeman, is a defensive star in the making.
Questions: They are still so young, will they be able to be consistent? Who is their starting running back? Will Josh Freeman mature in his 2nd year?
This is a solid division. I think Tampa will be a tough game for every team they play. The Saints defend their division crown and head back to the playoffs as the 2 seed. John Fox might lose his job in Carolina, opening it up for a possible Bill Cowher comeback.
Predicted Order of Finish:
1. New Orleans Saints 12-4
2. Atlanta Falcons 9-7
3. Carolina Panters 7-9
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 5-11
New Orleans
Pros: They are the Super Bowl Champs. Brees is still there. WHO DAT!?
Questions: Will they have a SB hangover? Can they defend their title? Can Brees beat the Madden Curse?
Atlanta
Pros: They have a ton of weapons, and Harry Douglas might be a great Fantasy sleeper at WR. Michael Turner is due for a bounce back year. They also signed Dunta Robinson to try to control the likes of Marques Colston and Steve Smith.
Questions: Everything goes down hill if "Mr. Professional Throw" Matt Ryan doesn't develop into a big time QB. He is behind Flacco in that draft class right now.
Carolina
Pros: They have a great running game, and Steve Smith is a game changer when healthy
Questions: Who is their QB, and for how long? Who plays opposite Smith? Who replaces Julius Peppers?
Tampa Bay
Pros: Call me crazy, but I love the Bucs' youth. I think they will compete in 2 years. I especially love Gerald McCoy, as well as their young receivers Arrelious Benn and Syracuse University's own Mike Williams, who is already listed as their #1. Ronde Barber is still back there giving orders as well. And Tanard Jackson, another Orangeman, is a defensive star in the making.
Questions: They are still so young, will they be able to be consistent? Who is their starting running back? Will Josh Freeman mature in his 2nd year?
This is a solid division. I think Tampa will be a tough game for every team they play. The Saints defend their division crown and head back to the playoffs as the 2 seed. John Fox might lose his job in Carolina, opening it up for a possible Bill Cowher comeback.
NFL PREVIEW: NFC NORTH
Here is the NFC North. Disclaimer: This is assuming Favre comes back by Week 5, at the latest.
Predicted Order of Finish:
1. Green Bay 13-3
2. Minnesota Vikings 11-5
3. Chicago Bears 4-12
4. Detroit Lions 2-14
Green Bay Packers
Pros: I love the Packers this year. Aaron Rodgers is ready to ascend to super stardom. He has the weapons on offense to get it done, including the always reliable Jennings and Driver. I think the Packer offense will overpower and outgun everyone they play.
Questions: Can the D be as good as last year? They addressed the O-Line issues in the draft, but will their picks preform?
Minnesota Vikings
Pros: They have a great running game. I think Toby Gerhart will be a steal as a backup and goal line back. Couple that with their D line and pass rush and they are the definition of a power team. Oh yeah, and that Favre guy, assuming he is back, can sling the ball pretty well.
Questions: Secondary and LB's, especially when health is concerned. Also, can the wideouts be as good as they were last year? Will Percy Harvin miss games due to migraines? Can Peterson get over his fumble-itis?
Chicago Bears
Pros: Picked up some significant free agents, including Julius Peppers and Chester Taylor. Still have Devin Hester, though they need to find ways to give him the ball every play. That old defense still has some life left in it.
Questions: Will the human turnover known as Cutler change his ways? Will Matt Forte bounce back? Is the D too old? Are their wideouts good enough? And of course, can you correctly pronounce Devin Aromashodu's name?
Detroit Lions
Pros: Ndamukong Suh is a monster and will instantly improve that defense. Matt Stafford has another year under his belt, and there is always big old Calvin Johnson aka Megatron to throw to.
Questions: Is Javid Best the answer at running back? Can they protect Stafford? Do they have enough weapons? Who are they going to draft in the top 5?
Both the Packers and Vikings move on to the postseason. The Lions continue to mature, but still need help through the draft and FA. Chicago fails, and it likely costs Lovie Smith his job.
Predicted Order of Finish:
1. Green Bay 13-3
2. Minnesota Vikings 11-5
3. Chicago Bears 4-12
4. Detroit Lions 2-14
Green Bay Packers
Pros: I love the Packers this year. Aaron Rodgers is ready to ascend to super stardom. He has the weapons on offense to get it done, including the always reliable Jennings and Driver. I think the Packer offense will overpower and outgun everyone they play.
Questions: Can the D be as good as last year? They addressed the O-Line issues in the draft, but will their picks preform?
Minnesota Vikings
Pros: They have a great running game. I think Toby Gerhart will be a steal as a backup and goal line back. Couple that with their D line and pass rush and they are the definition of a power team. Oh yeah, and that Favre guy, assuming he is back, can sling the ball pretty well.
Questions: Secondary and LB's, especially when health is concerned. Also, can the wideouts be as good as they were last year? Will Percy Harvin miss games due to migraines? Can Peterson get over his fumble-itis?
Chicago Bears
Pros: Picked up some significant free agents, including Julius Peppers and Chester Taylor. Still have Devin Hester, though they need to find ways to give him the ball every play. That old defense still has some life left in it.
Questions: Will the human turnover known as Cutler change his ways? Will Matt Forte bounce back? Is the D too old? Are their wideouts good enough? And of course, can you correctly pronounce Devin Aromashodu's name?
Detroit Lions
Pros: Ndamukong Suh is a monster and will instantly improve that defense. Matt Stafford has another year under his belt, and there is always big old Calvin Johnson aka Megatron to throw to.
Questions: Is Javid Best the answer at running back? Can they protect Stafford? Do they have enough weapons? Who are they going to draft in the top 5?
Both the Packers and Vikings move on to the postseason. The Lions continue to mature, but still need help through the draft and FA. Chicago fails, and it likely costs Lovie Smith his job.
NFL PREVIEW TIME! NFC EAST
That's right kids. It is time to dive into the NFL season with my full preview, including a look at each team and predictions on their records. I am sure that some of this will be wrong by January, but what the hell. To start with, we will look at the NFC East.
Predicted order of finish:
1. Dallas Cowboys 10-6
1. Washington Redskins 10-6
3. New York Giants 7-9
4. Philadelphia Eagles 5-11
Dallas Cowboys
Pros: They finally turned the corner last year, winning a game in the playoffs as well as the NFC East. Tony Romo has turned into a leader, and they have great depth at RB. Miles Austin emerged as a star wide out, with a famous girl friend to show for it. Finally, DeMarcus Ware is still one of the premier defensive players in the entire NFL.
Questions: Dez Bryant is already injured and hasn't played a football game in almost a year. Roy Williams needs to prove that he is consistent and worth the two #1 picks given up for him. The defense needs to be consistent every week, and the Boys need a full time replacement at left tackle following the release of Flozell Adams.
Washington Redskins
Pros: Donovan Jamal McNabb. While I liked Campbell, McNabb is a better QB and a better leader. Couple him with new coach Mike Shanahan, and I think that means a big turnaround. They upgraded on the O-Line big time with Trent Williams and Jamaal Brown, making the line a strength instead of the most glaring weakness. The switch to a 3-4 D will give Brian Orakpo and Andre Carter chances to shine, and London Fletcher and Rocky McIntosh are a stellar inside combo. And let's not forget Chris Cooley and Fred Davis at TE.
Questions: When Joey Galloway is your #2 receiver and it isn't 2001, there is a problem. Hopefully Fat Albert will behave himself now that he is practicing. There are also concerns about the age of the running back group, as well as the talent of the secondary.
New York Giants
Pros: Eli Manning is still a pretty good QB, and their wideouts emerged over the past two seasons. If Nicks is healthy, he is a highlight reel. Their offensive line has been together forever, and gosh darn it, I really like Ahmad Bradshaw.
Questions: Will Osi be happy? How hot is Tom Coughlin's seat? Is their secondary healthy? Can Brandon Jacobs run over anyone anymore?
Philadelphia Eagles
Pros: Got to be honest, I don't like them at all this year. Jackson and Maclin are fine, if they are healthy.
Questions: Getting rid of the best QB in franchise history for a rookie whose two best games were against abysmal passing defenses seems like a bad idea, but that is just what they did. I don't buy Andy Reid being a genius. I actually think he is one of the worst coaches in the league. He needs to commit to running the ball if he doesn't want Kolb to throw 20 INTs and take a ton of sacks. Their secondary is injured and aging. Asante Samuel can only cover one person at a time.
Not sure of tiebreakers, but both the Cowboys and the Redskins make the playoffs. Giants, start looking at running backs and linebackers for the draft. Eagles, start looking at everything, including QB.
Predicted order of finish:
1. Dallas Cowboys 10-6
1. Washington Redskins 10-6
3. New York Giants 7-9
4. Philadelphia Eagles 5-11
Dallas Cowboys
Pros: They finally turned the corner last year, winning a game in the playoffs as well as the NFC East. Tony Romo has turned into a leader, and they have great depth at RB. Miles Austin emerged as a star wide out, with a famous girl friend to show for it. Finally, DeMarcus Ware is still one of the premier defensive players in the entire NFL.
Questions: Dez Bryant is already injured and hasn't played a football game in almost a year. Roy Williams needs to prove that he is consistent and worth the two #1 picks given up for him. The defense needs to be consistent every week, and the Boys need a full time replacement at left tackle following the release of Flozell Adams.
Washington Redskins
Pros: Donovan Jamal McNabb. While I liked Campbell, McNabb is a better QB and a better leader. Couple him with new coach Mike Shanahan, and I think that means a big turnaround. They upgraded on the O-Line big time with Trent Williams and Jamaal Brown, making the line a strength instead of the most glaring weakness. The switch to a 3-4 D will give Brian Orakpo and Andre Carter chances to shine, and London Fletcher and Rocky McIntosh are a stellar inside combo. And let's not forget Chris Cooley and Fred Davis at TE.
Questions: When Joey Galloway is your #2 receiver and it isn't 2001, there is a problem. Hopefully Fat Albert will behave himself now that he is practicing. There are also concerns about the age of the running back group, as well as the talent of the secondary.
New York Giants
Pros: Eli Manning is still a pretty good QB, and their wideouts emerged over the past two seasons. If Nicks is healthy, he is a highlight reel. Their offensive line has been together forever, and gosh darn it, I really like Ahmad Bradshaw.
Questions: Will Osi be happy? How hot is Tom Coughlin's seat? Is their secondary healthy? Can Brandon Jacobs run over anyone anymore?
Philadelphia Eagles
Pros: Got to be honest, I don't like them at all this year. Jackson and Maclin are fine, if they are healthy.
Questions: Getting rid of the best QB in franchise history for a rookie whose two best games were against abysmal passing defenses seems like a bad idea, but that is just what they did. I don't buy Andy Reid being a genius. I actually think he is one of the worst coaches in the league. He needs to commit to running the ball if he doesn't want Kolb to throw 20 INTs and take a ton of sacks. Their secondary is injured and aging. Asante Samuel can only cover one person at a time.
Not sure of tiebreakers, but both the Cowboys and the Redskins make the playoffs. Giants, start looking at running backs and linebackers for the draft. Eagles, start looking at everything, including QB.
Monday, August 9, 2010
The NFL Preview Coming Soon
Hello to all 8 of my followers (rock on Ryan Hamill for pushing me closer to double digits). I am working on my full NFL Preview, complete with my predictions for all 32 teams. Just some NFC advance warnings, cause that is what I have finished, I think the Eagles will drop off, the Packers will own the NFC, and that Rams fans should start scouting for the #1 pick (AJ Green, WR, Georgia might be a good one to look at). I should have it all done within the next day or two, so keep your eyes peeled.
Any thoughts on tonight's Hall of Fame Game, or the 2010 Hall of Fame Class/Enshrinement?
Any thoughts on tonight's Hall of Fame Game, or the 2010 Hall of Fame Class/Enshrinement?
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Friar Tebow
Just a beautiful picture of what the Broncos did to Jesus' favorite football player, Tim Tebow.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
NFL Fantasy Mock Draft
Just finished an NFL Fantasy Mock Draft on ESPN.com. Thought I would share the results. It was a 12 team league, snake draft. I had the 4th pick. Small disclaimer- I usually play in a league where you get a point per reception, which would explain the running backs I took. They are not only running threats, but most catch the ball quite well, too.
Round 1- Ray Rice, RB, Baltimore
Round 2- Peyton Manning, QB, Indianapolis
Round 3- Greg Jennings, WR, Green Bay
Round 4- Jerome Harrison, RB, Cleveland
Round 5- Michael Crabtree, WR, San Francisco
Round 6- CJ Spiller, RB, Buffalo
Round 7- Jason Witten, TE, Dallas
Round 8- Michael Bush, RB, Oakland
Round 9- Matt Ryan, QB, Atlanta
Round 10- Ahmad Bradshaw, RB, New York Giants
Round 11- Golden Tate, WR, Seattle
Round 12- Defense/Special Teams, Pittsburgh
Round 13- Mike Williams, WR, Tampa Bay
Round 14- Eddie Royal, WR, Denver
Round 15- John Carlson, TE, Seattle
Round 16- Ryan Succop, K, Kansas City
I love Ray Rice, and after he carried me last year I will do anything to draft him. Peyton is a no brainer, especially with Anthony Gonzales coming back to join that talented receiving corp. Jennings and Crabtree are the best receivers on their teams, though I am always tempted to take Donald Driver later in drafts. All he does is put up numbers. Harrison was inconsistant, but explosive when he was on last year. Spiller, once he signs with the Bills, can be a better version of Reggie Bush and get a ton of fantasy points. Witten is Tony Romo's favorite target, and still a top 5 tight end. Michael Bush and Ahmad Bradshaw are solid backups that may start for their teams. Pitt's defense should be solid as always, especially with a healthy, non-Madden Cursed Troy Polamalu. Royal, Tate and Carlson are all solid players that can sub in on my starter's bye weeks.
Now, call it my college bias, but I think Mike Williams will be the steal of fantasy football this year. He didn't play every game his last year at Syracuse, and he still led the Big East in receiving. He didn't want to be in college, but on the field he was better than everyone around him. Were it not for his college trouble, he would have been picked in the first 2 rounds instead of the 4th. ESPN Insider is reporting that he has been the most impressive person in Bucs camp, and may already be the #1 wideout on the team after developing a strong bond with QB Josh Freeman. I will advise everyone to pick him up late in your drafts. I think he will be bigger than a guy like Mike Sims-Walker was last season.
Round 1- Ray Rice, RB, Baltimore
Round 2- Peyton Manning, QB, Indianapolis
Round 3- Greg Jennings, WR, Green Bay
Round 4- Jerome Harrison, RB, Cleveland
Round 5- Michael Crabtree, WR, San Francisco
Round 6- CJ Spiller, RB, Buffalo
Round 7- Jason Witten, TE, Dallas
Round 8- Michael Bush, RB, Oakland
Round 9- Matt Ryan, QB, Atlanta
Round 10- Ahmad Bradshaw, RB, New York Giants
Round 11- Golden Tate, WR, Seattle
Round 12- Defense/Special Teams, Pittsburgh
Round 13- Mike Williams, WR, Tampa Bay
Round 14- Eddie Royal, WR, Denver
Round 15- John Carlson, TE, Seattle
Round 16- Ryan Succop, K, Kansas City
I love Ray Rice, and after he carried me last year I will do anything to draft him. Peyton is a no brainer, especially with Anthony Gonzales coming back to join that talented receiving corp. Jennings and Crabtree are the best receivers on their teams, though I am always tempted to take Donald Driver later in drafts. All he does is put up numbers. Harrison was inconsistant, but explosive when he was on last year. Spiller, once he signs with the Bills, can be a better version of Reggie Bush and get a ton of fantasy points. Witten is Tony Romo's favorite target, and still a top 5 tight end. Michael Bush and Ahmad Bradshaw are solid backups that may start for their teams. Pitt's defense should be solid as always, especially with a healthy, non-Madden Cursed Troy Polamalu. Royal, Tate and Carlson are all solid players that can sub in on my starter's bye weeks.
Now, call it my college bias, but I think Mike Williams will be the steal of fantasy football this year. He didn't play every game his last year at Syracuse, and he still led the Big East in receiving. He didn't want to be in college, but on the field he was better than everyone around him. Were it not for his college trouble, he would have been picked in the first 2 rounds instead of the 4th. ESPN Insider is reporting that he has been the most impressive person in Bucs camp, and may already be the #1 wideout on the team after developing a strong bond with QB Josh Freeman. I will advise everyone to pick him up late in your drafts. I think he will be bigger than a guy like Mike Sims-Walker was last season.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Playing It Safe With Strasburg
It is a little scary, but hopefully just playing it extremely safe. The Nationals have put phenom Stephen Strasburg on the 15-Day DL. He should miss 2 or 3 more starts, though I would not be surprised if Rizzo shuts him down for the year. I don't mind playing this situation extremely safe considering who it is and the number of arms we will have coming back within a month. Jordan Zimmermann will be back in two weeks. Scott Olsen is pitching as I type. Wang and Marquis will come back at some point, as will John Lannan and Luis Atilano. So shutting him down and playing it safe is not a bad idea. Our attendance will drop back to where it normally would be, but as long as Stephen is good to go in the spring, everything will be alright.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
More on Dunn
A Blog on Washingtonpost.com has the following post. I don't know why we would want to trade this guy. I love him.
Adam Dunn still staying relaxed as decision nears
On Monday night, Adam Dunn felt curious about what might happen between now and the trade deadline. All along, Dunn has stayed out of the business side of his situation. But he called his agent Monday night, and while they spoke he could quell the temptation to wonder.
"He was like, 'Oh, now you want to know, huh?' " Dunn said this afternoon. "I said, 'You're right, I don't.' Now I do want to know. It's [ticking] me off. It's kind of like when you're having a kid. You kind of want to know, you kind of want to see what happens."
After Dunn bent Monday night, he didn't break. Dunn remains at the center of constant trade rumors, but with a decision nearing he is still ignoring the talk, even telling those involved he doesn't want to know. Dunn has purposefully kept himself in the dark about what his future holds, a future that will be decided within the next five days.
"It's very easy for me to block it out," Dunn said. "I understand it's my career, but the options are pretty good. I stay where I want to stay, or I go and probably get a chance to play for a World Series, definitely in a pennant race. That's two pretty awesome options. I'm in a win-win situation."
Dunn allowed that he's frustrated with the lack of a conclusion. "If you'd asked me three months ago if I thought we would have a deal worked out, absolutely," Dunn said. "But again, that's the business side where I don't even want to get involved in. I don't know what's going to happen."
Regardless of the result, though, Dunn will not harbor ill feelings towards the Nationals, he said. His representatives have been talking with the Nationals since the spring, and, contrary to what a team source told the Post, Dunn said his representatives have not tried to set any kind of deadline for contract-extension negotiations to be completed. His feelings toward the team, he said, have not changed throughout the process.
"It's business," Dunn said. "I'm not going to sit there tomorrow if I get traded and say, 'God, I hate Mike [Rizzo] and Stan [Kasten]. I can't stand them. I hate 'em all.' I'll probably end up talking to them for a long time. I really enjoy them. It's not going to affect me either way.
"I don't know how to put it, man. I really don't have a feeling, because I've done everything I can, expressed everything I wanted to express. If it doesn't work, it doesn't work. Whatever. It's fine.
"I've done everything I can. I've told them how I feel. Both sides know how I feel. And you've got the business side, which I don't want to be a part. If I wanted to be a part of that, I would have been an agent."
While Dunn believes he will benefit from either signing an extension or being traded, his preference remains to stay in Washington. Dunn believes the Nationals, despite their 42-57 record, are close to contention. The appeal of staying, for Dunn, lies in helping transform a perpetual loser into a winning organization.
"That's the reason why I wanted to come here," Dunn said. "I could have went somewhere that was already winning. Who cares? So what? I want to turn something around and be part of something special.
"The goal is to win, man, and we're not winning here. But I wouldn't be doing all this if I didn't think we were going to be really good, really soon. If that's the case, 'Okay, I want out of here.' I don't. I know where we're fixing to get. I know next year how much better we're going to be. I've already been stuck here with 100 losses. I want to win 100 here."
T.O Update
Seems that the Bengals got their man. T.O, Ochocinco and Carson Palmer. Should be fun to watch, I guess.
Would You Take T.O?
That is the question on the minds of many teams heading into NFL training camp. Would you want your team to take a risk on Terrell Owens for a year? It really depends on your current wide receiver corp and the willingness of your QB to play with him. While he is rumored to only be going to the Bengals at this point, let's take a look around the league to see who should be looking at this all-timer.
- The Cincinnati Bengals- The leaders in the clubhouse, both of their stars want TO to put on the stripes. If you have Carson Palmer's approval, then you should go ahead and make the move. The Bengals' window isn't open for that long.
- The Washington Redskins- I know. Donovan McNabb is our QB. But look at our wideouts. A possibly suspended Santana Moss. Devin Thomas. Malcolm Kelly. 3 over-the-hill running backs. They need some kind of playmaker, and that could be TO. Look for the Skins to draft RB or WR this upcoming year, by the way.
- The Seattle Seahawks- They have a lot of injuries, apparently. TJ Whose-your-mamma is dinged up, Golden Tate is young, Deion Branch is no good. Why not take a stab on TO?
- The Oakland Raiders- Need I say more? Jason Campbell would love having a consistent WR on his team for once.
- The New England Patriots- Revitalized the career of one malcontent WR in Randy Moss. I bet that they could do the same for TO.
- The Cleveland Browns, The Tennessee Titans, The Jacksonville Jaguars, The Denver Broncos, The Chicago Bears, The Detroit Lions, and The St. Louis Rams- Name the top 3 receivers on each team... I rest my case.
Obviously, there will be a question of how happy TO will be with whatever team he ends up with. But at 36, maybe he is finally starting to mature and think about his legacy. I am sure he would rather give it 2 or 3 more years, win a championship and walk into the sunset as the #2 receiver all time, statistically. If he can swallow his pride and his anger for that time, and turn himself into a real team player, then why not take a chance on him?
- The Cincinnati Bengals- The leaders in the clubhouse, both of their stars want TO to put on the stripes. If you have Carson Palmer's approval, then you should go ahead and make the move. The Bengals' window isn't open for that long.
- The Washington Redskins- I know. Donovan McNabb is our QB. But look at our wideouts. A possibly suspended Santana Moss. Devin Thomas. Malcolm Kelly. 3 over-the-hill running backs. They need some kind of playmaker, and that could be TO. Look for the Skins to draft RB or WR this upcoming year, by the way.
- The Seattle Seahawks- They have a lot of injuries, apparently. TJ Whose-your-mamma is dinged up, Golden Tate is young, Deion Branch is no good. Why not take a stab on TO?
- The Oakland Raiders- Need I say more? Jason Campbell would love having a consistent WR on his team for once.
- The New England Patriots- Revitalized the career of one malcontent WR in Randy Moss. I bet that they could do the same for TO.
- The Cleveland Browns, The Tennessee Titans, The Jacksonville Jaguars, The Denver Broncos, The Chicago Bears, The Detroit Lions, and The St. Louis Rams- Name the top 3 receivers on each team... I rest my case.
Obviously, there will be a question of how happy TO will be with whatever team he ends up with. But at 36, maybe he is finally starting to mature and think about his legacy. I am sure he would rather give it 2 or 3 more years, win a championship and walk into the sunset as the #2 receiver all time, statistically. If he can swallow his pride and his anger for that time, and turn himself into a real team player, then why not take a chance on him?
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