Well here we are another year coming to a close and it time to look back at the year that was and give my top 10 sports moments of 2009.
10
June 24, 2009
US Mens Soccer defeats Spain
Now let me start by saying that i really don't watch soccer or to be honest even like at all period but anytime the United States performs well in anything i always take pride in it. And not only was this a win over a damn good team Spain was the number one team in the world when the US beat them.
9
July 11, 2009
Brock Lesnar defeats Frank Mir at UFC 100
It amazes me how popular and how quickly this sport has become so popular and UFC 100 was the pinnacle of it. Brock Lesnar is a beast plain and simple and his destruction of Frank Mir was fun to watch as sick as that may sound, hopefully for Brock and the UFC the heavyweight Champ can get healthy fast.
8
May 2-13, 2009
Washington Capitals vs. Pittsburgh Penguins Playoff Series
Another sport i don't watch a lot of until this series happened that featured arguably the two best players in the NHL, Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin. The best game of the series was Game 2 in which both Crosby and Ovechkin netted hat tricks, the eventual winner Penguins would win the Stanley Cup.
7
March 12, 2009
Syracuse and UConns Epic 6 Overtime Game in Big East Tournament
I watched this game at my house and i couldn't turn away as big shot after big shot was made it was riveting television. I had no rooting interest in the game but it to me was the best basketball game of 2009 pro and college combined, and even though it was 6 OTs you almost didn't want the game to end.
6
July 23, 2009
Mark Buehrle is Perfect....Again.
One of the hardest things to do in the game of baseball if your a pitcher is throw a perfect game. Well Mark Buehrle has now done it twice in his career and both have been against two of the best hitting teams in all of baseball, he Rangers and the Rays, and oh yea Buehrle owes a huge thank you to DeWayne Wise for this perfect game.
5
November 7, 2009
Navy beats Notre Dame
This is a personal favorite of mine not only do i loathe Notre Dame but i am also a Navy Football Season Ticket Holder, Navy had to suffer 43 straight losses to the Fighting Irish so to beat the Irish 2 of the last 3 seasons and send their season down the toilet couldn't ask for anything better than that.
4
June 30, 2009
Orioles beat Red Sox after 9-1 deficit
It was the largest comeback in Orioles history trailing the Red Sox 9-1 in the 7th Inning, the Orioles scored 5 in the 7th and 5 in the 8th to beat Boston 11-10. It was a season of plenty of lows but this was the highest of highs for a team that looks to be heading in the right direction.
3
2009 College Football Season
TCU & Boise Create BCS Chaos
This season was yet another reason we desperately need a playoff system in FBS College Football, TCU and Boise have had tremendous undefeated runs and because their conferences don't measure up they don't get a shot at the title, also putting them against each other in the Fiesta Bowl is stupid.
These next 2 are hard for me to say are the best but you cant deny them.
2
October 28-November 4 2009
The Yankees back on Top
As a die hard Orioles fan it pains me to see the Yankees on top again but the way they did was extremely memorable. A-Rod had a tremendous postseason run (finally) and it looks as though the money spent on Sabathia, Burnett and Teixeira was money well spent, hopefully don't wont do it again in 2010.
1
February 1, 2009
Steelers beat Cardinals in Super Bowl
Again being from Baltimore this one hurt, especially since the Ravens were so close losing to Pittsburgh in the AFC Championship Game. But this game was maybe the best Super Bowl ever and Santonio Holmes made a catch that will be remembered for a long time, but just like the Yankees here is hoping they don't do it again for a long time.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
MLB POSTSEASON
To me there is no better time than Playoff baseball and after last nights fantastic Tiebreaker game between the Twins and the Tigers i just hope that's a preview of things to come now on to the predictions for the Division Series.
AMERICAN LEAGUE
Minnesota Twins vs. New York Yankees
First of all you have to applaud the effort by the Twins, they were trailing the Tigers by 3 with 4 games left. They are the most exciting team in the American League, but the Yankees are the best team in baseball and the Twins used so much energy just to get to this point. I love the Twins but the Yanks are to good.
Yankees in 4
Boston Red Sox vs. Los Angeles Angels
These two teams have really gotten to know each other pretty well the last couple postseasons. The Red Sox have been on the winning side every time, but for some reason this year i think it will be different. The Angels have gone through so much this year they are my sentimental favorite it wont be easy but the Halos finally get past Boston.
Angels in 5
NATIONAL LEAGUE
Colorado Rockies vs. Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies start their quest to repeat but with one glaring problem, Brad Lidge. Last year Lidge was perfect never blowing a save, this year he has blown 11. The Rockies under Jim Tracy have been the best team in Baseball since Tracy took over the team in May. The back end of the bullpen will kill the Phillies in this series.
Rockies in 4
St. Louis Cardinals vs. Los Angeles Dodgers
For most of the season the Dodgers were the best team in baseball, but the month of September wasn't their best the Dodger picked the worst time top be playing their worst baseball. The Cards bring in MVP candidate Albert Pujols and Cy Young candidate Adam Wainwright. Should be a good series just don't like the way the Dodgers are playing right now.
Cardinals in 5
MY League Championship Series Match Ups:
New York Yankees vs. Los Angeles Angels
Colorado Rockies vs. St. Louis Cardinals
AMERICAN LEAGUE
Minnesota Twins vs. New York Yankees
First of all you have to applaud the effort by the Twins, they were trailing the Tigers by 3 with 4 games left. They are the most exciting team in the American League, but the Yankees are the best team in baseball and the Twins used so much energy just to get to this point. I love the Twins but the Yanks are to good.
Yankees in 4
Boston Red Sox vs. Los Angeles Angels
These two teams have really gotten to know each other pretty well the last couple postseasons. The Red Sox have been on the winning side every time, but for some reason this year i think it will be different. The Angels have gone through so much this year they are my sentimental favorite it wont be easy but the Halos finally get past Boston.
Angels in 5
NATIONAL LEAGUE
Colorado Rockies vs. Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies start their quest to repeat but with one glaring problem, Brad Lidge. Last year Lidge was perfect never blowing a save, this year he has blown 11. The Rockies under Jim Tracy have been the best team in Baseball since Tracy took over the team in May. The back end of the bullpen will kill the Phillies in this series.
Rockies in 4
St. Louis Cardinals vs. Los Angeles Dodgers
For most of the season the Dodgers were the best team in baseball, but the month of September wasn't their best the Dodger picked the worst time top be playing their worst baseball. The Cards bring in MVP candidate Albert Pujols and Cy Young candidate Adam Wainwright. Should be a good series just don't like the way the Dodgers are playing right now.
Cardinals in 5
MY League Championship Series Match Ups:
New York Yankees vs. Los Angeles Angels
Colorado Rockies vs. St. Louis Cardinals
Thursday, October 1, 2009
NFL WEEK 4 Predictions
So Week 3 was my best week to date with a 13-3 mark. Lets keep the good karma going.
WEEK 1---10-6
WEEK 2---10-6
WEEK 3---13-3
SEASON TO DATE---33-15 (.687)
Lions (1-2) @ Bears (2-1); MY PICK: BEARS
The Lions finally got a win in a long time and Jay Cutler has rebounded since the bad Week 1 performance, now the Lions can start another losing streak.
Bengals (2-1) @ Browns (0-3); MY PICK: BENGALS
Cincinnati has turned their season around after week one's debacle and the Browns are going nowhere fast.
Seahawks (1-2) @ Colts (3-0); MY PICK: COLTS
Seattle is a totally different team without Matt Hasselbeck and Manning is making any early case for another MVP.
Giants (3-0) @ Chiefs (0-3); MY PICK: GIANTS
A battle of 2 teams heading in two opposite directions, this could get ugly real fast.
Buccaneers (0-3) @ Redskins (1-2); MY PICK: REDSKINS
Do the cities of Tampa and Washington even want to watch this game, my guess is no but if i have to pick its the Skins.
Titans (0-3) @ Jaguars (1-2); MY PICK: TITANS
Hard to have a must win game this early in the season but for Tennessee if they want any chance of being in the postseason they cant go 0-4.
Raiders (1-2) @ Texans (1-2); MY PICK: TEXANS
I can't figure out this Texans team some weeks they look good others bad, the Raiders should help making this week a good one.
Ravens (3-0) @ Patriots (2-1); MY PICK: RAVENS
This is the game of the week, the Ravens right now are just the better team Joe Flacco is the key for the Ravens.
Jets (3-0) @ Saints (3-0); MY PICK: SAINTS
This will be the toughest challenge for the Jets to date the Saints struggled at Buffalo but this game is at home i like the Saints here.
Bills (1-2) @ Dolphins (0-3); MY PICK: BILLS
Another game in which both teams need a big win, I don't know if i wouldve picked the Dolphins if Pennington was healthy, and hes not.
Cowboys (2-1) @ Broncos (3-0); MY PICK: COWBOYS
This will be the biggest game for the Broncos maybe Romo plays better away from Texas Stadium.
Rams (0-3) @ 49ers (2-1); MY PICK: 49ERS
Even without Frank Gore this game should be an easy one for San Fran, and if it wasnt for a miracle throw by Favre the Niners could be 3-0.
Chargers (2-1) @ Steelers (1-2); MY PICK: STEELERS
San Diego has never won a regular season game at Pittsburgh, I know Pittsburgh is good but they can't afford to not win this game.
Packers (2-1) @ Vikings (3-0); MY PICK: PACKERS
This game is all about Favre playing his former team but the Packers spoil his first chance to beat his old team and Aaron Rodgers outplays number 4.
TEAMS WITH A WEEK 4 BYE: Falcons, Eagles, Cardinals and Panthers
WEEK 1---10-6
WEEK 2---10-6
WEEK 3---13-3
SEASON TO DATE---33-15 (.687)
Lions (1-2) @ Bears (2-1); MY PICK: BEARS
The Lions finally got a win in a long time and Jay Cutler has rebounded since the bad Week 1 performance, now the Lions can start another losing streak.
Bengals (2-1) @ Browns (0-3); MY PICK: BENGALS
Cincinnati has turned their season around after week one's debacle and the Browns are going nowhere fast.
Seahawks (1-2) @ Colts (3-0); MY PICK: COLTS
Seattle is a totally different team without Matt Hasselbeck and Manning is making any early case for another MVP.
Giants (3-0) @ Chiefs (0-3); MY PICK: GIANTS
A battle of 2 teams heading in two opposite directions, this could get ugly real fast.
Buccaneers (0-3) @ Redskins (1-2); MY PICK: REDSKINS
Do the cities of Tampa and Washington even want to watch this game, my guess is no but if i have to pick its the Skins.
Titans (0-3) @ Jaguars (1-2); MY PICK: TITANS
Hard to have a must win game this early in the season but for Tennessee if they want any chance of being in the postseason they cant go 0-4.
Raiders (1-2) @ Texans (1-2); MY PICK: TEXANS
I can't figure out this Texans team some weeks they look good others bad, the Raiders should help making this week a good one.
Ravens (3-0) @ Patriots (2-1); MY PICK: RAVENS
This is the game of the week, the Ravens right now are just the better team Joe Flacco is the key for the Ravens.
Jets (3-0) @ Saints (3-0); MY PICK: SAINTS
This will be the toughest challenge for the Jets to date the Saints struggled at Buffalo but this game is at home i like the Saints here.
Bills (1-2) @ Dolphins (0-3); MY PICK: BILLS
Another game in which both teams need a big win, I don't know if i wouldve picked the Dolphins if Pennington was healthy, and hes not.
Cowboys (2-1) @ Broncos (3-0); MY PICK: COWBOYS
This will be the biggest game for the Broncos maybe Romo plays better away from Texas Stadium.
Rams (0-3) @ 49ers (2-1); MY PICK: 49ERS
Even without Frank Gore this game should be an easy one for San Fran, and if it wasnt for a miracle throw by Favre the Niners could be 3-0.
Chargers (2-1) @ Steelers (1-2); MY PICK: STEELERS
San Diego has never won a regular season game at Pittsburgh, I know Pittsburgh is good but they can't afford to not win this game.
Packers (2-1) @ Vikings (3-0); MY PICK: PACKERS
This game is all about Favre playing his former team but the Packers spoil his first chance to beat his old team and Aaron Rodgers outplays number 4.
TEAMS WITH A WEEK 4 BYE: Falcons, Eagles, Cardinals and Panthers
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
NFL Week 3 Wrap Up
Well week 3 is in the books and i feel like we have learned a little more about a lot of teams. First of all Cleveland is really, really bad, I mean really bad. So bad that Derek Anderson who threw 3 picks against Baltimore will be the starter. Bret Favre still has some magic left when he threw a Touchdown pass to Greg Lewis with just 2 seconds left in the game. The Vikings fans are all giddy with Lombardi trophies dancing in their heads. The New York Jets seem to be for real after a win over the Titans and the "Sanchise" is looking like everything but a rookie. The Ravens lived up to their number 1 ranking in the ESPN Power Rankings, though it was against the Browns who i might have mentioned is really bad. Dallas finally got their first win in new Texas Stadium against lowly Carolina who dropped to 0-3. The Broncos continue to surprise with another win going to 3-0. And how could I talk about week 3 without mentioning Detroit getting their first win in 20 games, so Washington bailed out the Lions how nice. And of course Mike Vick made his much anticipated return and was really bad but its only one game so it should get better. So now i know you have been waiting for it so now the Best and Worst of Week # 3.
TOP 5 BEST OF WEEK 3
1) Detroit Lions--I know the Lions arent going anywhere but after 19 straight losses they deserve to celebrate a little congrats to the Lions.
2) Peyton Manning---379 Yards Passing 4 TDs---Not a surprise but Peyton is making an early case for being the front runner in the MVP race.
3) Maurice Jones-Drew---119 Yards Rushing, 3 TDs---After an 0-2 start for the Jags they needed someone to spark the offense, that was it.
4) Joe Flacco---342 Yards Passing 1 TD---Flacco did not have one 300 yard passing day all of last year, he has 2 in 3 games in 2009.
5) Bret Favre---301 Yards Passing 2 TDs---Got to give some credit to the old gun slinger his Vikes are 3-0 and he his a big part why.
TOP 5 WORST OF WEEK 3
1) Washington Redskins---Everyone knew it was going to happen but nobody wanted to be the team to let it happen, the Skins are in trouble.
2) Cleveland Browns---After losing 34-3 to Baltimore the Browns are in bad shape up to 10 percent of the locker room has filed grievances against Mangini, not a good start to the Mangini era.
3) Terrell Owens---For the first time in 185 straight games T.O. did not have a catch, the honeymoon may be over sooner in Buffalo than in the other cities T.O. got into bed with.
4) Matt Cassel--- 90 Yards Passing 2 TDs---Yea he had 2 touchdowns but you cant win football games with only 90 yards passing.
5) Tampa Bay Buccaneers---I know the New York football Giants are good but the Buccs only had 85 yards of total offense, and it seems Byron Leftwich is out as the starting QB.
BEST 3 GAMES
1) Ravens at Patriots---Flacco vs. Brady
2) Jets at Saints---# 1 Overall Defense vs. # 1 Overall Offense
3) Chargers at Steelers---Almost a must win for Sixburgh.
STINKER OF THE WEEK
Buccaneers at Redskins---Both offenses are horrible.
TOP 5 BEST OF WEEK 3
1) Detroit Lions--I know the Lions arent going anywhere but after 19 straight losses they deserve to celebrate a little congrats to the Lions.
2) Peyton Manning---379 Yards Passing 4 TDs---Not a surprise but Peyton is making an early case for being the front runner in the MVP race.
3) Maurice Jones-Drew---119 Yards Rushing, 3 TDs---After an 0-2 start for the Jags they needed someone to spark the offense, that was it.
4) Joe Flacco---342 Yards Passing 1 TD---Flacco did not have one 300 yard passing day all of last year, he has 2 in 3 games in 2009.
5) Bret Favre---301 Yards Passing 2 TDs---Got to give some credit to the old gun slinger his Vikes are 3-0 and he his a big part why.
TOP 5 WORST OF WEEK 3
1) Washington Redskins---Everyone knew it was going to happen but nobody wanted to be the team to let it happen, the Skins are in trouble.
2) Cleveland Browns---After losing 34-3 to Baltimore the Browns are in bad shape up to 10 percent of the locker room has filed grievances against Mangini, not a good start to the Mangini era.
3) Terrell Owens---For the first time in 185 straight games T.O. did not have a catch, the honeymoon may be over sooner in Buffalo than in the other cities T.O. got into bed with.
4) Matt Cassel--- 90 Yards Passing 2 TDs---Yea he had 2 touchdowns but you cant win football games with only 90 yards passing.
5) Tampa Bay Buccaneers---I know the New York football Giants are good but the Buccs only had 85 yards of total offense, and it seems Byron Leftwich is out as the starting QB.
BEST 3 GAMES
1) Ravens at Patriots---Flacco vs. Brady
2) Jets at Saints---# 1 Overall Defense vs. # 1 Overall Offense
3) Chargers at Steelers---Almost a must win for Sixburgh.
STINKER OF THE WEEK
Buccaneers at Redskins---Both offenses are horrible.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
NFL WEEK 3 Predictions
So after the first 2 Weeks Ive had back to back 10-6 weeks which again isn't bad but it isn't particularly great either hopefully this week i can improve a little.
Steelers (1-1) @ Bengals (1-1); MY PICK: STEELERS
Cincinnati actually showed some life last week in Green Bay and Pittsburgh were 2 missed field goals from being 2-0, huge early season match up in the AFC North.
Redskins (1-1) @ Lions (0-2); MY PICK: LIONS
I dont think the Skins are a very good team after their lackluster 9-7 win at home against St. Louis, you heard it here first the Lions snap their 19 game losing streak.
Packers (1-1) @ Rams (0-2); MY PICK: PACKERS
Unless the Packers just completely look past this team i dont see how the Rams can win, the Rams have only score 7 points all year.
49ers (2-0) @ Vikings (2-0); MY PICK: VIKINGS
If this game was in San Fran my pick might be different I really like this Niner team this hould be a really good really close game.
Falcons (2-0) @ Patriots (1-1); MY PICK: PATRIOTS
I really want to go with Atlanta in this game but I cant see New England laying an egg two weeks in a row, big test for Matt Ryan i think he passes but still wont get the win.
Titans (0-2) @ Jets (2-0); MY PICK: JETS
After last weeks great win it would be easy to say the Jets suffer a setback here but i dont see it, hard to imagine the Titans who were 13-3 last year might lose their 3 game already.
Chiefs (0-2) @ Eagles (1-1); MY PICK: EAGLES
Perfect rebound game for the Eagles after New Orleans embarrased them in week 2, this will be the first game Mike Vick will be eligible to play in.
Giants (2-0) @ Buccaneers (0-2); MY PICK: GIANTS
New York is riding high after a Win to open up the new Texas Stadium and the Buccs are just plain bad, this game shouldnt be close.
Browns (0-2) @ Ravens (2-0); MY PICK: RAVENS
The Browns have scored 1 offensive TD in 2 games the Ravens are averaging 34.5 points per game, enough said.
Jaguars (0-2) @ Texans (1-1); MY PICK: TEXANS
Houston found their offense in Tennessee with huge days by Schaub and Johnson i expect more of the same against the struggling Jags.
Bears (1-1) @ Seahawks (1-1); MY PICK: BEARS
Cutler rebounded in a big way against the Champs, there is one simple fact about this game if Matt Hasselbeck cant go the Seahawks cant win.
Saints (2-0) @ Bills (1-1); MY PICK: SAINTS
New Orleans has been simply amazing on the offensive side of the ball, against the Bills i dont see why it wont continue.
Broncos (2-0) @ Raiders (1-1); MY PICK: RAIDERS
Denver had yet to be tested so far this season i think thats exactly what the Raiders do i like this team to turn some heads this year.
Dolphins (0-2) @ Chargers (1-1); MY PICK: CHARGERS
San Diego lit up the skies against Baltimore but it wasnt enough and Miami lost despite being on the field for 45 Minutes, i like the super Chargers at home.
Colts (2-0) @ Cardinals (1-1); MY PICK: COLTS
With these two offenses it is a possibility that 100 points could be scored which makes for a great Sunday night game.
Panthers (0-2) @ Cowboys (1-1); MY PICK: COWBOYS
The Cowboys have another chance under the bright lights to win one in the New stadium,the Panthers are in a must win situation or their season could be over.
WEEK 1---10-6
WEEK 2---10-6
SEASON TO DATE---20-12
Steelers (1-1) @ Bengals (1-1); MY PICK: STEELERS
Cincinnati actually showed some life last week in Green Bay and Pittsburgh were 2 missed field goals from being 2-0, huge early season match up in the AFC North.
Redskins (1-1) @ Lions (0-2); MY PICK: LIONS
I dont think the Skins are a very good team after their lackluster 9-7 win at home against St. Louis, you heard it here first the Lions snap their 19 game losing streak.
Packers (1-1) @ Rams (0-2); MY PICK: PACKERS
Unless the Packers just completely look past this team i dont see how the Rams can win, the Rams have only score 7 points all year.
49ers (2-0) @ Vikings (2-0); MY PICK: VIKINGS
If this game was in San Fran my pick might be different I really like this Niner team this hould be a really good really close game.
Falcons (2-0) @ Patriots (1-1); MY PICK: PATRIOTS
I really want to go with Atlanta in this game but I cant see New England laying an egg two weeks in a row, big test for Matt Ryan i think he passes but still wont get the win.
Titans (0-2) @ Jets (2-0); MY PICK: JETS
After last weeks great win it would be easy to say the Jets suffer a setback here but i dont see it, hard to imagine the Titans who were 13-3 last year might lose their 3 game already.
Chiefs (0-2) @ Eagles (1-1); MY PICK: EAGLES
Perfect rebound game for the Eagles after New Orleans embarrased them in week 2, this will be the first game Mike Vick will be eligible to play in.
Giants (2-0) @ Buccaneers (0-2); MY PICK: GIANTS
New York is riding high after a Win to open up the new Texas Stadium and the Buccs are just plain bad, this game shouldnt be close.
Browns (0-2) @ Ravens (2-0); MY PICK: RAVENS
The Browns have scored 1 offensive TD in 2 games the Ravens are averaging 34.5 points per game, enough said.
Jaguars (0-2) @ Texans (1-1); MY PICK: TEXANS
Houston found their offense in Tennessee with huge days by Schaub and Johnson i expect more of the same against the struggling Jags.
Bears (1-1) @ Seahawks (1-1); MY PICK: BEARS
Cutler rebounded in a big way against the Champs, there is one simple fact about this game if Matt Hasselbeck cant go the Seahawks cant win.
Saints (2-0) @ Bills (1-1); MY PICK: SAINTS
New Orleans has been simply amazing on the offensive side of the ball, against the Bills i dont see why it wont continue.
Broncos (2-0) @ Raiders (1-1); MY PICK: RAIDERS
Denver had yet to be tested so far this season i think thats exactly what the Raiders do i like this team to turn some heads this year.
Dolphins (0-2) @ Chargers (1-1); MY PICK: CHARGERS
San Diego lit up the skies against Baltimore but it wasnt enough and Miami lost despite being on the field for 45 Minutes, i like the super Chargers at home.
Colts (2-0) @ Cardinals (1-1); MY PICK: COLTS
With these two offenses it is a possibility that 100 points could be scored which makes for a great Sunday night game.
Panthers (0-2) @ Cowboys (1-1); MY PICK: COWBOYS
The Cowboys have another chance under the bright lights to win one in the New stadium,the Panthers are in a must win situation or their season could be over.
WEEK 1---10-6
WEEK 2---10-6
SEASON TO DATE---20-12
NFL WEEK 2 Wrap Up
So after the action in Week # 2 i guess I'm going to have to eat a little crow. I had a recent blog post about all the trash talking coming from the New York Jets, and stated that if your going to trash talk you better back it up well they did. No touchdowns for Tom Brady and the Pats in a 16-9 loss to New York, also in my predictions i said the Bengals would be routed by the Packers, swing and a miss strike 2. Got to give a lot of credit to the Bengals after that horrible week 1 loss i didn't think they had a chance against Green Bay. Jay Cutler redeemed himself against the defending Super Bowl champs 17-14 in Chicago. Baltimore won again with their offense in a 31-26 shootout in San Diego, but Ray Lewis did make the play that won the game. Drew Brees is making it look way too easy in a New Orleans blowout in Philadelphia. The Cowboys opened their new stadium the same way they closed the old one with a loss, only this time to the hated Giants. Finally Peyton Manning found a way to score 27 points in only 15 minutes of being on the field, seems like even keeping him off the field doesn't work. Now for the Best and Worst of Week 2.
TOP 5 BEST OF WEEK 2
1) Frank Gore---207 Yards Rush, 39 Yards Receiving 2 TDs---Gore had runs of 80 and 79 yards in the win over Seattle and is a big reason why they are 2-0, now can he stay healthy?
2) Drew Brees---25 for 34 311 Yards 3 TDs---I have a feeling Brees will be on this list a lot and this week he did it against a much better defense.
3) New York Jets---They played a tremendous game and they backed up all their trash talk and came out with a huge win, kudos to the Jets.
4) Phillip Rivers---25 for 45 436 Yards 2 TDs---The only reason he is not higher is two reasons, his team lost and he did have a couple key INTs that led to 10 Ravens points.
5) Matt Schaub---25 for 39 357 Yards 4 TDs---After a horrible performance in Week 1, Schaub bounced back big time including 2 strikes to Andre Johnson.
TOP 5 WORST OF WEEK 2
1) Tony Romo---127 Yards Passing 3 INTs---Week 1 Romo looked Awesome shredding the Buccs, didn't open the new stadium the way he wanted to with a couple head scratching Picks.
2) Detroit Lions---19 Straight Regular Season Losses---Until the Lions win a game they will always be on this list next week may be their best chance to end the skid.
3) Jeff Reed---Missed 2 Field Goals---Usually reliable Reed missed two crucial FGs which would have been the difference, expect him to bounce back next week.
4) St. Louis Rams---The Rams have scored a total of 7 points in two games, long season ahead in St. Louis.
5) Ravens Secondary---I know a lot of people are jumping on the Baltimore bandwagon but that Secondary must get better, they cant afford to give up over 400 yards passing every game.
TOP 5 BEST OF WEEK 2
1) Frank Gore---207 Yards Rush, 39 Yards Receiving 2 TDs---Gore had runs of 80 and 79 yards in the win over Seattle and is a big reason why they are 2-0, now can he stay healthy?
2) Drew Brees---25 for 34 311 Yards 3 TDs---I have a feeling Brees will be on this list a lot and this week he did it against a much better defense.
3) New York Jets---They played a tremendous game and they backed up all their trash talk and came out with a huge win, kudos to the Jets.
4) Phillip Rivers---25 for 45 436 Yards 2 TDs---The only reason he is not higher is two reasons, his team lost and he did have a couple key INTs that led to 10 Ravens points.
5) Matt Schaub---25 for 39 357 Yards 4 TDs---After a horrible performance in Week 1, Schaub bounced back big time including 2 strikes to Andre Johnson.
TOP 5 WORST OF WEEK 2
1) Tony Romo---127 Yards Passing 3 INTs---Week 1 Romo looked Awesome shredding the Buccs, didn't open the new stadium the way he wanted to with a couple head scratching Picks.
2) Detroit Lions---19 Straight Regular Season Losses---Until the Lions win a game they will always be on this list next week may be their best chance to end the skid.
3) Jeff Reed---Missed 2 Field Goals---Usually reliable Reed missed two crucial FGs which would have been the difference, expect him to bounce back next week.
4) St. Louis Rams---The Rams have scored a total of 7 points in two games, long season ahead in St. Louis.
5) Ravens Secondary---I know a lot of people are jumping on the Baltimore bandwagon but that Secondary must get better, they cant afford to give up over 400 yards passing every game.
Friday, September 18, 2009
NFL WEEK 2 Predictions
Well i forgot to blog about my Week 1 Predictions, but i did make them on ESPN's Pigskin Pick 'Em.
http://games.espn.go.com/pigskin/en/entry?entryID=40847&period=1
As you can see i went 10-6, not great but not bad either now for Week 2 Predictions.
Panthers (0-1) @ Falcons (1-0); MY PICK: FALCONS
Jake Delhomme might be done and the back ups aren't good enough to win Atlanta should win this one easily.
Vikings (1-0) @ Lions (0-1); MY PICK: VIKINGS
The Lions have lost 18 straight regular season games, after this it will be 19 and again it will be because of Adrian Peterson not Bret Favre
Bengals (0-1) @ Packers (1-0); MY PICK: PACKERS
Only the Bengals could lose a game like they did a week ago, and the Packers defense looks way better than a year ago, Packers in a rout.
Texans (0-1) @ Titans (0-1); MY PICK: TITANS
Houston laid a huge egg a week ago against the Jets and the Titans were a few missed field goals away from upsetting the Champs, the Titans look much better than the Texans.
Raiders (0-1) @ Chiefs (0-1); MY PICK: CHIEFS
Both teams had good showings in Week 1, of course this pick hinges on if Matt Cassel plays for the Chiefs.
Patriots (1-0) @ Jets (1-0); MY PICK: PATRIOTS
Mark Sanchez was impressive against Houston, but i don't think i have to say this but New England isn't Houston, it should be close but the Pats are still the better team.
Saints (1-0) @ Eagles (1-0); MY PICK: SAINTS
Drew Brees probably wont have the same type of day against a much tougher defense, and the main reason i pick New Orleans is McNabb's health going into this game.
Rams (0-1) @ Redskins (0-1); MY PICK: REDSKINS
The Rams were shutout by Seattle and the Redskins played the Giants tough in Week 1, even though the Rams beat the Skins a year ago it should not happen again.
Cardinals (0-1) @ Jaguars (0-1); MY PICK: JAGUARS
Arizona was upset by the 49ers at home last week, Jacksonville played Indianapolis very tough but lost by 2 points, even though i think Arizona is the better team Jacksonville at home is the better pick.
Seahawks (1-0) @ 49ers (1-0); MY PICK: 49ERS
The 49ers beat Arizona last week and Seattle thumped the Rams, whether or not you like Shaun Hill as your QB he is 8-3 as a starter.
Buccaneers (0-1) @ Bills (0-1); MY PICK: BILLS
Tampa looked horrible on defense and the Bills were 1 fumble away from beating the big bad Patriots, the Bills will this home opener easily.
Steelers (1-0) @ Bears (0-1); MY PICK: STEELERS
There isn't a worst possible match up for Jay Cutler have his 4 INT game against Green Bay, even without Polamalu the Champs win this one.
Browns (0-1) @ Broncos (1-0); MY PICK: BRONCOS
Denver shouldn't need another Miracle play to win this win the Browns are really, really bad.
Ravens (1-0) @ Chargers (1-0); MY PICK: RAVENS
The Chargers had a lot of trouble protecting Rivers against Oakland, and with numerous injuries on the O-Line and Ngata, Suggs and Lewis coming into town it could be a long night for the Chargers.
Giants (1-0) @ Cowboys (1-0); MY PICK: GIANTS
Even with the Season Opener at the new Texas Stadium, i still like the Giants here overall they are a much better team.
Colts (1-0) @ Dolphins (0-1); MY PICK: COLTS
The Colts struggled against Jacksonville but they always do, Miami has a lot of pressure on them to repeat last years success, Colts win.
Last Week----10-6
Season to Date---10-6
http://games.espn.go.com/pigskin/en/entry?entryID=40847&period=1
As you can see i went 10-6, not great but not bad either now for Week 2 Predictions.
Panthers (0-1) @ Falcons (1-0); MY PICK: FALCONS
Jake Delhomme might be done and the back ups aren't good enough to win Atlanta should win this one easily.
Vikings (1-0) @ Lions (0-1); MY PICK: VIKINGS
The Lions have lost 18 straight regular season games, after this it will be 19 and again it will be because of Adrian Peterson not Bret Favre
Bengals (0-1) @ Packers (1-0); MY PICK: PACKERS
Only the Bengals could lose a game like they did a week ago, and the Packers defense looks way better than a year ago, Packers in a rout.
Texans (0-1) @ Titans (0-1); MY PICK: TITANS
Houston laid a huge egg a week ago against the Jets and the Titans were a few missed field goals away from upsetting the Champs, the Titans look much better than the Texans.
Raiders (0-1) @ Chiefs (0-1); MY PICK: CHIEFS
Both teams had good showings in Week 1, of course this pick hinges on if Matt Cassel plays for the Chiefs.
Patriots (1-0) @ Jets (1-0); MY PICK: PATRIOTS
Mark Sanchez was impressive against Houston, but i don't think i have to say this but New England isn't Houston, it should be close but the Pats are still the better team.
Saints (1-0) @ Eagles (1-0); MY PICK: SAINTS
Drew Brees probably wont have the same type of day against a much tougher defense, and the main reason i pick New Orleans is McNabb's health going into this game.
Rams (0-1) @ Redskins (0-1); MY PICK: REDSKINS
The Rams were shutout by Seattle and the Redskins played the Giants tough in Week 1, even though the Rams beat the Skins a year ago it should not happen again.
Cardinals (0-1) @ Jaguars (0-1); MY PICK: JAGUARS
Arizona was upset by the 49ers at home last week, Jacksonville played Indianapolis very tough but lost by 2 points, even though i think Arizona is the better team Jacksonville at home is the better pick.
Seahawks (1-0) @ 49ers (1-0); MY PICK: 49ERS
The 49ers beat Arizona last week and Seattle thumped the Rams, whether or not you like Shaun Hill as your QB he is 8-3 as a starter.
Buccaneers (0-1) @ Bills (0-1); MY PICK: BILLS
Tampa looked horrible on defense and the Bills were 1 fumble away from beating the big bad Patriots, the Bills will this home opener easily.
Steelers (1-0) @ Bears (0-1); MY PICK: STEELERS
There isn't a worst possible match up for Jay Cutler have his 4 INT game against Green Bay, even without Polamalu the Champs win this one.
Browns (0-1) @ Broncos (1-0); MY PICK: BRONCOS
Denver shouldn't need another Miracle play to win this win the Browns are really, really bad.
Ravens (1-0) @ Chargers (1-0); MY PICK: RAVENS
The Chargers had a lot of trouble protecting Rivers against Oakland, and with numerous injuries on the O-Line and Ngata, Suggs and Lewis coming into town it could be a long night for the Chargers.
Giants (1-0) @ Cowboys (1-0); MY PICK: GIANTS
Even with the Season Opener at the new Texas Stadium, i still like the Giants here overall they are a much better team.
Colts (1-0) @ Dolphins (0-1); MY PICK: COLTS
The Colts struggled against Jacksonville but they always do, Miami has a lot of pressure on them to repeat last years success, Colts win.
Last Week----10-6
Season to Date---10-6
Peek at NFL WEEK 2
So the NFL season is in full force and Week 2 is upon us. There are some interesting story lines heading into Week 2 and ill go over some before looking at some of the weeks best games. First it will be Rex Ryans first game against the Patriots. By now everybody knows the comments that Rex Ryan made in the off season about how he was not going to kiss the rings on Bill Belichick hands. Now even more trash talk coming from the Jets sideline Kerry Rhodes stated that the Jets will be out to embarras the Patriots on Sunday, funny cause last time i checked it the Pats who have embarrased New York beating them 8 in a row, Someone should tell the Jets you win the game on the field. The status of Donovan McNabb is still up in the air which could mean Kevin Kolb could make his first start that doesnt bode to well for the Eagles against the highpowered New Orleans Saints. The regular season debut of the new Texas Stadium will take place Sunday night as the Cowboys host the Giants. In my opinion the game of the Week is the Chargers vs. Ravens in San Diego, both teams had harder than expected opening games and both have high aspirations in the AFC. This game could show where these two teams stand. Jay Cutler had a horid performance against division rival Green Bay, and things wont get any easier. Pittsburgh makes the trip Chicago and the bring last years # 1 Defense. Cutler will have to be at his best which still might not be good enough to beat the Steelers.
BEST 3 GAMES
1) Ravens @ Chargers
2) Patriots @ Jets
3) Giants @ Cowboys
3 GAMES NOT SO INTERESTING
1) Raiders @ Chiefs
2) Browns @ Broncos
3) Seahawks @ 49ers
BEST 3 GAMES
1) Ravens @ Chargers
2) Patriots @ Jets
3) Giants @ Cowboys
3 GAMES NOT SO INTERESTING
1) Raiders @ Chiefs
2) Browns @ Broncos
3) Seahawks @ 49ers
Thursday, September 17, 2009
The Wrong people are Trash Talking
I will start this post by saying i have nothing wrong with a little trash talk in fact i think its fun and adds to the excitement leading up to a game. The only thing i have against it is the ones who are trash talking. Earlier this year Lane Kiffin (new head coach of Tennessee) said it would be great to sing Rocky Top when they beat Florida, well good luck with that. Tennessee has lost to Florida 4 straight years and a couple have been blow outs. Its good that he is confident but the one thing you dont want to do is give another team bulletin board material especially a team as good as Florida. Dont think that Urban Meyer wont have his team ready to crush the Volunteers. But the trash talking isnt just on the college level Rex Ryan has been talking some trash towards the Patriots. Rex stated that he wasnt going to kiss Bill Belichick's Super Bowl Rings, well good and no one said you had to. What i am trying to get at is the teams that havent proved a damn thing are the teams doing all the talking. Tennessee is 1-1 and that 1 win was against Western Kentucky in their Division 1 debut, and the Jets beat the Texans not exactly on the same level as the Patriots. Now if Florida or New England was trash talking then not many people would say anything about it because they have earned the right to. talk a little trash, but because these two teams are full class people from top to bottom trash talking isnt something they do at all. Someone has to remind these coaches and teams that you dont win games with your mouth and you can talk a big game all you want but how much you going to talk when you lose 35-10.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
NFL Week 1 Wrap Up
So after a long wait finally the NFL Season is here and Week 1 is officially over. There is not much you can learn from just one game but there is no harm in trying. First off is there any doubt Drew Brees is the best QB in the league i know it was against the Lions but 6 TDs is always an impressive stat line. Another observation is that maybe some teams aren't as bad as some are expecting. Take the Monday Night double header everybody and their mother predicted that the Chargers and Patriots would crush the Raiders and Bills, but in New England it took 2 very late touchdowns for the Pats to win by 1 and the Chargers scored a TD with 20 seconds left to edge the Raiders 24-20. The Chiefs had a good showing against the Ravens on the road losing 38-24 but the score doesn't really tell the story. A game that was sort of lost in the shuffle was the 49ers pulling off an upset against the Cardinals in Arizona. Mark Sanchez won his first pro game in a 24-7 win over the Texans. Now for the 5 Best and 5 Worst of Week 1.
TOP 5 BEST OF WEEK 1
1. Drew Brees---26 for 34 358 Yards 6 TDs---I don't think i have to explain why this is the best performance.
2. Tony Romo---16 for 27 353 Yards 3 TDs---For those who thought the Cowboys couldn't move the ball without T.O., Romo had his best day as a pro.
3. Adrian Peterson---25 Carries 180 Yards 3 TDs---Minnesota made a lot of off season news with the signing of Bret Favre but without a doubt Peterson's play will determine how far Minnesota goes.
4. Joe Flacco---26 for 43 307 Yards 3 TDs---For years Baltimore as been known for their defense it looks like Flacco wants to change that.
5. Reggie Wayne---10 Receptions 162 Yards 1 TD---With Harrison gone and Gonzalez hurt Wayne with have to continue to put up these type of numbers for the Colts.
TOP 5 WORST
1. Cincinnati Bengals---Only the Bengals, no wait sorry the Bungles could lose a game after scoring a TD with 30 seconds left. And some people had them in the Playoffs.
2. Jake Delhomme---4 INTS 1 Lost Fumble---Can anyone explain what the hell has happened to Delhomme, 11 Turnovers in his last 2 games, hard to imagine he led the Panthers to the Super Bowl a couple years back.
3. Jay Cutler--4 INTS 1 TD---So the Bears fans have been waiting for a franchise quarterback for a long time, if Cutler keeps playing like that they might have to wait a little longer.
4. Leodis McKelvin---After the Pats made the game 24-19 all McKelvin had to do was not fumble the kickoff return, well he did and the Patriots win 25-24.
5. Detroit Lions---I don't want to rub salt in the wound but with the loss at New Orleans that is now 18 Straight Regular season losses.
TOP 5 BEST OF WEEK 1
1. Drew Brees---26 for 34 358 Yards 6 TDs---I don't think i have to explain why this is the best performance.
2. Tony Romo---16 for 27 353 Yards 3 TDs---For those who thought the Cowboys couldn't move the ball without T.O., Romo had his best day as a pro.
3. Adrian Peterson---25 Carries 180 Yards 3 TDs---Minnesota made a lot of off season news with the signing of Bret Favre but without a doubt Peterson's play will determine how far Minnesota goes.
4. Joe Flacco---26 for 43 307 Yards 3 TDs---For years Baltimore as been known for their defense it looks like Flacco wants to change that.
5. Reggie Wayne---10 Receptions 162 Yards 1 TD---With Harrison gone and Gonzalez hurt Wayne with have to continue to put up these type of numbers for the Colts.
TOP 5 WORST
1. Cincinnati Bengals---Only the Bengals, no wait sorry the Bungles could lose a game after scoring a TD with 30 seconds left. And some people had them in the Playoffs.
2. Jake Delhomme---4 INTS 1 Lost Fumble---Can anyone explain what the hell has happened to Delhomme, 11 Turnovers in his last 2 games, hard to imagine he led the Panthers to the Super Bowl a couple years back.
3. Jay Cutler--4 INTS 1 TD---So the Bears fans have been waiting for a franchise quarterback for a long time, if Cutler keeps playing like that they might have to wait a little longer.
4. Leodis McKelvin---After the Pats made the game 24-19 all McKelvin had to do was not fumble the kickoff return, well he did and the Patriots win 25-24.
5. Detroit Lions---I don't want to rub salt in the wound but with the loss at New Orleans that is now 18 Straight Regular season losses.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Lou Holtz=Huge Homer
Recently on ESPN Lou Holtz was on talking about the preseason AP Top 25, he mentioned Florida's challenges and Utah being overrated but one thing stuck out more than any other. Coach Holtz actually said that Notre Dame will play for the National Title. Now i will give Lou Holtz that Notre Dame has an easy schedule, only one of their opponents are in the preseason top 37, which of course is USC. But Notre Dame had a pretty easy schedule last year as well and the finished 7-6 including a bowl victory over traditional powerhouse Hawaii (haha!). Oh and by the way only 1 of those wins was against a winning team and that winning team was Navy, and it was close 27-21. No offense to Navy but Notre Dame should never have to squeak out a victory over Navy, as big of a fan i am of Navy the talent is just not the same, but Navy wants games more than Notre Dame does. I personally think Notre Dame being in the preseason Top 25 is somewhat of a joke. Now back to Coach Holtz i know he has a special place in his heart for Notre Dame, he did win a National Championship there and i get that. But when you become a member of the media unless maybe if you are the play by play announcer for that team you cant show your bias. Ever since Holtz has been on ESPN he has been one of the biggest homers on the entire network. Now if you honestly believe that Notre Dame or Florida or Texas or whoever is the better team OK, but it just seems like in Holtz's case he picks Notre Dame just because. Now lets just say by some miracle Notre Dame does advance to the National Title Game do they really stand a chance against Florida or Texas or Oklahoma, in a word No. Case in point in 2006 Notre Dame went 10-2 was ranked 11th in the Country but when they collided with LSU in the Sugar Bowl it was no contest 41-14. Lou Holtz knows his football I'm not arguing that just in the future a little less bias towards the golden dome would be refreshing.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Surprise, Surprise Favre is Back
Nearly 3 weeks after the Vikings supposedly gave Favre a July 31 deadline to make a decision on a return, Favre and the Vikings agree to a new deal for 1 year totalling $10-12 Million. I can say that i am totally shocked that this happened actually it makes makes sense on his part because he didn't have to go through Training Camp. Personally i don't think that this automatically makes the Vikings the team to beat in the NFC. The reason i say this is because Bret Favre had a complete collapse and maybe for the first time in his career he looked old and like his best days were clearly behind him. To me Bret Favre is becoming one of the most annoying athletes in all of sports. I am starting to strongly dislike Favre, which is saying a lot because 2 or 3 years ago he was one of my favorites. The reason he is coming back is also why i dislike the decision. Ever since the Packers and Favre parted ways Favre has been more determined to stick it to the Packers than anything else, and what better way to stick it to your old team than to play them twice in a season and beat them both times. Favre is coming back for all the wrong reasons, if he really wants to play to win that is totally different but coming back to just beat the Packers is the wrong move. I don't think Favre realises the pressure he is under if he doesn't take the Vikings to the Super Bowl this season will be a complete bust. In my opinion Favre doesn't have it anymore and this could turn into a disaster just like with the Jets a year ago.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Vick back in the NFL
As most of you already know Michael Vick signed a deal with the Philadelphia Eagles, which resulted in somewhat of a media circus. You got fans on both sides of this issue, some believe everybody deserves a second chance and others think that someone like Mike Vick doesn't deserve that chance. I am on the side that everybody deserves a second chance. Vick did a horrible disgusting thing that can never be forgiven, but he served his time and paid his debt to society. I am never going to agree for what he did but i always thought we were a forgiving society, and i also think the Eagles fans are overreacting just a little bit. Some fans went as far as saying that they were going to boycott the team and turn in their season tickets. I guarantee the first time Vick scores or makes a run of 40 yards or so the Eagles fans will cheer for him like he has been there for years. I also think Vick has been beaten up way to much in the press and the court of public opinion. How many guys in the NFL or for that matter MLB, NBA or NHL, have in one way or another done something wrong in their personal life. Whether it be taking drugs, abusing women, cheating on their wives you name it most athletes have done it. And for the most part those guys haven't faced half the crap Mike Vick has had to put up with. I want to say this again so people don't think i condone what Vick did, what he did was the most disgusting, horrible act I've heard in a long time, but if Vick is truly sorry and turns into a choir boy and is the perfect teammate and citizen i don't see the problem in letting him play for the NFL.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Hamilton Proves hes Human
I usually like to keep this blog on just sports topics and nothing that these athletes do off the field. But with all the publicity that this story is getting i figured i would chime in with my two cents. Recently on deadspin.com some photos surfaced of Josh Hamilton at a bar doing some body shots with some young ladies. Most other publications are dragging Hamilton through the dirt with these photos. Whether or not you agree with his actions all this proves is that athletes are just as human as we are. Most baseball fans know Hamilton for his battle with drug addiction that actually had him out of baseball for a long time. He made a comeback which culminated with the outstanding Home Run Derby at Yankee Stadium. Hamilton also wrote a book about his ordeal and explained how he went from being homeless to one of the biggest stars in baseball. If anything to me its just a little disappointing, the only people who deserve an apology from Josh is his wife and kids. But also to me this proves to me that Hamilton is human and humans make mistakes. In a perfect world we would like all of our athletes to be perfect angels and not do anything bad when they are in their personal lives. But realistically we can expect these athletes to act how we would want them to. The only unfortunate part in this story is that his kids and wife can find these pictures anywhere on the Internet and that's not fair to them. Josh Hamilton inspired a lot of people with his courageous story and comeback and i hope just for his sake not for anybody elses that he doesn't go back into drug use and he can learn from this and go back to dazzling us on the field and not creating stories off the field.
Friday, August 7, 2009
NFL Hall of Fame
So I am sitting at home watching the NFL Network, and the program they have on is the top 10 players not to be inducted into the Hall of Fame which is a pretty good list. Some highlights include Andre Reed, Steve Tasker, Cris Carter, Shannon Sharpe, Jerry Kramer and Ken Stabler just to name a few. And while i was watching it got me to thinking, that some voters are the biggest idiots every. Just some of the reasons they gave for not voting for certain people just didn't make any sense to me. For Instance another name on the list was Ricky Waters, over 10,000 rushing yards over 4,000 receiving yards 91 TDs and because he was a loud mouth and he made one stupid comment many guys will never vote for him. And that comment was when he short armed a pass he could've caught and then asked about it after the game why he didn't extend his arms he said 'for who for what'. Granted it was stupid to say that but you shouldn't keep him out of the Hall because of one comment. Cris Carter is another one that make you scratch your head. One reason a voter gave on the show was that they didn't want to vote 2 WR in they same year, are you kidding me. Who cares if all the inductees that year is one position if they are hall of famers they are hall of famers. Another thing about Cris Carter they said is it should be hard to get in on the first try, basically saying if aren't a player like Unitas, Montana, Elway, etc. you should not get in the first year. Some of these voters need to be smacked in the head to me it seems like they try to make arguments not to put people in the Hall. Also personal vendettas should not be a reason to keep someone out. They should not keep guys out because he was a jerk lots of people are jerks that doesn't mean they aren't Hall of famers. I think you would have less controversies if former players voted for the Hall and not a bunch of writers who probably never picked up a ball in their life. I know eventually most of these guys will get in but the thought process is the thing that should change.
NFL PREVIEW
With the NFL Season just around the corner its time for the predictions.
FIRST THE AFC
AFC NORTH
1. Steelers
2. Ravens*
3. Bengals
4. Browns
This to me is just a two team race the Steelers and Ravens are the class of this division, the Bengals could be better but ill believe it when i see it and the Browns are a complete mess, the Ravens should be a wild card team again.
AFC EAST
1. Patriots
2. Jets*
3. Dolphins
4. Bills
With Tom Brady back i expect the Pats to take control of this division again, with the Jets Rex Ryan has done a lot of talking but you don't win a division by talking. Just because i have the Bills in last doesn't mean they will have a bad year, this division should be the most competitive.
AFC SOUTH
1. Colts
2. Titans
3. Texans
4. Jaguars
A lot of changes in Indy but one constant, Peyton Manning don't know if they will win 12 games again but a division title isn't out of reach. Tennessee will be good but not # 1 seed good, and the Texans will try for winning season # 1 after back to back 8-8 campaigns.
AFC WEST
1. Chargers
2. Chiefs
3. Broncos
4. Raiders
Chargers win this division by default because they have the best team. Chiefs have a better year just for the fact that Matt Cassel is their quarterback. With the Broncos to many changes and the Raiders aren't quite there yet.
AFC CHAMPION: Baltimore Ravens
I know it sounds like i am being a homer but i like all the off season moves they have made and with Mason coming back and another year for Flacco I like their chances.
NFC
NFC NORTH
1. Bears
2. Packers
3. Vikings
4. Lions
The Bears finally have a Quarterback in Jay Cutler which should help them win this division. The Packers don't have enough fire power, with the Vikes to many issues at QB, and i don't think i have to explain why the Lions are last.
NFC EAST
1. Eagles
2. Giants
3. Cowboys
4. Redskins
The Eagle had the most success last year advancing to the NFC Championship Game, don't know how good the Giants can be without Burress, not a big believer in Romo and the Redskins spent a lot of money but most of it on 1 player.
NFC SOUTH
1. Saints
2. Falcons*
3. Panthers*
4. Buccaneers
New Orleans is first here for one reason, well actually 5,069 reasons, Drew Brees. Love the addition of Tony Gonzalez to Atlanta and Carolina is Carolina, Tampa to me is the odd man out in this division.
NFC WEST
1. Cardinals
2. Seahawks
3. 49ers
4. Rams
The Cardinals have all the pieces back from a NFC Championship team, Seattle should be better with Matt Hasselbeck back healthy, depending on what Crabtree decides to do with his season depends of San Frans success, and the only thing you should know about St. Louis they signed Kyle Boller as a back up.
NFC CHAMPION: New Orleans Saints
SUPER BOWL 44: Baltimore Ravens vs. New Orleans Saints
I wont pick a champion mostly because i just don't want to, but i hope my home town Baltimore Ravens avenge the 3 losses to the Steelers a year ago and get to the promised land of professional football.
FIRST THE AFC
AFC NORTH
1. Steelers
2. Ravens*
3. Bengals
4. Browns
This to me is just a two team race the Steelers and Ravens are the class of this division, the Bengals could be better but ill believe it when i see it and the Browns are a complete mess, the Ravens should be a wild card team again.
AFC EAST
1. Patriots
2. Jets*
3. Dolphins
4. Bills
With Tom Brady back i expect the Pats to take control of this division again, with the Jets Rex Ryan has done a lot of talking but you don't win a division by talking. Just because i have the Bills in last doesn't mean they will have a bad year, this division should be the most competitive.
AFC SOUTH
1. Colts
2. Titans
3. Texans
4. Jaguars
A lot of changes in Indy but one constant, Peyton Manning don't know if they will win 12 games again but a division title isn't out of reach. Tennessee will be good but not # 1 seed good, and the Texans will try for winning season # 1 after back to back 8-8 campaigns.
AFC WEST
1. Chargers
2. Chiefs
3. Broncos
4. Raiders
Chargers win this division by default because they have the best team. Chiefs have a better year just for the fact that Matt Cassel is their quarterback. With the Broncos to many changes and the Raiders aren't quite there yet.
AFC CHAMPION: Baltimore Ravens
I know it sounds like i am being a homer but i like all the off season moves they have made and with Mason coming back and another year for Flacco I like their chances.
NFC
NFC NORTH
1. Bears
2. Packers
3. Vikings
4. Lions
The Bears finally have a Quarterback in Jay Cutler which should help them win this division. The Packers don't have enough fire power, with the Vikes to many issues at QB, and i don't think i have to explain why the Lions are last.
NFC EAST
1. Eagles
2. Giants
3. Cowboys
4. Redskins
The Eagle had the most success last year advancing to the NFC Championship Game, don't know how good the Giants can be without Burress, not a big believer in Romo and the Redskins spent a lot of money but most of it on 1 player.
NFC SOUTH
1. Saints
2. Falcons*
3. Panthers*
4. Buccaneers
New Orleans is first here for one reason, well actually 5,069 reasons, Drew Brees. Love the addition of Tony Gonzalez to Atlanta and Carolina is Carolina, Tampa to me is the odd man out in this division.
NFC WEST
1. Cardinals
2. Seahawks
3. 49ers
4. Rams
The Cardinals have all the pieces back from a NFC Championship team, Seattle should be better with Matt Hasselbeck back healthy, depending on what Crabtree decides to do with his season depends of San Frans success, and the only thing you should know about St. Louis they signed Kyle Boller as a back up.
NFC CHAMPION: New Orleans Saints
SUPER BOWL 44: Baltimore Ravens vs. New Orleans Saints
I wont pick a champion mostly because i just don't want to, but i hope my home town Baltimore Ravens avenge the 3 losses to the Steelers a year ago and get to the promised land of professional football.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Melvin Mora did all the disrespecting
Over the weekend Melvin Mora lashed out saying that he has felt disrespected after being out of the lineup 3 of the last 4 games. There are a couple things wrong with what Melvin Mora did. First he is being sat down because he is not performing. Mora is hitting .256 with 3 homers and 27 RBI, in my opinion hes lucky Trembley hasn't sat him down earlier. Mora kept mentioning respect in his rant or lack there of when really Mora was the one who was lacking respect towards the team and the more specifically Dave Trembley. If you have a problem with what is going on you address the situation in private not to the nearest reporter that wants to listen. Also this isnt something you would expect from Melvin Mora, who for the most part as been a quiet player who had just gone about his business. I guess Mora feels he has done enough with the Orioles that no matter how bad he is playing he should get the benefit of the doubt and play no matter what. There are only a select few that have that honor, someone like a Cal Ripken or Derek Jeter and no offense to Melvin but he is not quite on their level. All Dave Trembley has to do make the last couple of months of the season as smooth as possible. Melvin is in the last year of his contract and after his performance this season you could almost guarantee he wont be back. It is just unfortunate that Mora had to taint his last couple months of what has been a pretty good run that Mora has had with the Orioles.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Tiger Woods=Sore Loser
There is no doubt that Tiger Woods is the greatest golfer of our time maybe of all time. But i don't think I'm the only one that thinks he was being a little bit of a sore loser when he failed to make the cut in the Open Championship this past weekend. We saw images of him dropping his club in disgust and even some instances of him hitting his golf bag with his club. Now i don't play golf so i can say how frustrating it is but i can see how it can be. Also take into consideration that the course they are playing is one of the toughest in the world. I know your Tiger Woods but even the best of all time have bad tournaments, and this is only the second time he has missed the cut in his career. Another reason i say he is a sore loser is that for the most part you don't see the other golfers acting like that when they have a bad day or weekend. The game of golf is to difficult to assume your going to go out there and dominate every single weekend even though for the most part Tiger does, which is also why i say he is a sore loser. Tiger has won so many championships and majors one bad weekend isn't going to kill him I'm sure he will bounce back just fine. Now there is a fine line between competitive and sore loser. Some might view his antics and say that he is so competitive that one bad hit upsets him that much and that's fine but i just view it differently. Look i got no problem with Tiger he is the greatest golfer in the world i just think he could handle his failures a little better considering he is the face of his sport.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Beckham Returns
On July 16th David Beckham made his return to the MLS, and most could argue that nobody cared. When Beckham came to the MLS a couple years back some thought this would make soccer relevant in the United States, i would bet a paycheck that nearly half of the sports fans in America dont even know the MLS exists, and if the do i know they cant name every team. The only reason Beckham's name is even in the news has nothing to do with his on field play. A new book is coming out called The Beckham Experiment. In that book Landon Donovan made some less than flattering comments about the Galaxy captain. Donovan called Beckham a bad captain and teammate. Whether or not you agree with the way Donovan did it you cant really argue his point. Since being with the team the Galaxy have played just over .500 without Beckham, with him just 9 wins in 32 games. Donovan should have been more of a man but Beckham has a lot to do to be a better captain and teammate. But honestly Beckham could lead the Galaxy to 5 straight MLS Championships and still soccer would not be a mainstream sport. And this is not just a soccer bashing article I'm just telling the truth soccer will never be a top sport in this country. Now like every other sport soccer does have its rabid fans but the casual fans aren't drawn in as much as the other sports draw in the casual fans. Soccer has a long way to go (at least in this country) before it will become a major sport, if it can become one i just don't believe it can.
Monday, July 13, 2009
MLB Mid Season Awards
Since we are at the unofficial midway point of the baseball season its time to look at who i think are the first half award winners. First the American League.
AL MVP--Joe Mauer, Minnesota Twins, .373 15 HR 49 RBI
Mauer has turned into not only the best hitting catchers in the game but maybe the best hitter in all the majors. Even with missing the First month of the season he has the best average in the American League, Mauer might be the best chance besides Ichiro to hit .400 in a season.
Notable Mention: Ichrio, Jason Bay
AL Cy Young--Zach Greinke, Kansas City Royals, 10-5 2.12 ERA 129 SO
From the start of the season Greinke has been lights out, and he is having a breakout year. And though the Royals are being the normal Royals you can't deny the success of Greinke, will he keep it up time will tell.
Notable Mention: Josh Beckett, Roy Halladay
AL Rookie of the Year--Brad Bergesen, Baltimore Orioles 6-3 3.54 ERA 53 SO
Im sure some of you are saying who? But for a guys who wasn't even invited to spring training he has quickly become the ace of the Orioles. 7 of his last 9 starts have been quality starts with 5 wins.
Notable Mention: Nolan Reimold, David Price
NL MVP--Albert Pujols, St. Louis Cardinals .332 32 HR 87 RBI
I'd like to say this a hard decision but not really, He is First in Home runs, first in RBIs and fourth in average. Albert Pujols may be the very best player right now in the Major League.
Notable Mention: David Wright, Raul Ibanez
NL Cy Young--Tim Lincecum, San Francisco Giants 10-2 2.33 ERA 149 SO
This is another one where it didn't take much thought. The nickname of Lincecum is the freak and its a good one because of his freakishly good skills. Also he has helped the resurgence of the Giants putting them back in the playoff hunt.
Notable Mention: Dan Haren, Josh Johnson
NL Rookie of the Year--Pablo Sandoval, San Francisco Giants .333 15 HR 55 RBI
Sandoval is another reason the Giants are playing well having a fantastic rookie campaign. Also his play behind the plate has been good only committing 4 errors.
Notable Mention: Colby Rasmus, Tommy Hanson
AL MVP--Joe Mauer, Minnesota Twins, .373 15 HR 49 RBI
Mauer has turned into not only the best hitting catchers in the game but maybe the best hitter in all the majors. Even with missing the First month of the season he has the best average in the American League, Mauer might be the best chance besides Ichiro to hit .400 in a season.
Notable Mention: Ichrio, Jason Bay
AL Cy Young--Zach Greinke, Kansas City Royals, 10-5 2.12 ERA 129 SO
From the start of the season Greinke has been lights out, and he is having a breakout year. And though the Royals are being the normal Royals you can't deny the success of Greinke, will he keep it up time will tell.
Notable Mention: Josh Beckett, Roy Halladay
AL Rookie of the Year--Brad Bergesen, Baltimore Orioles 6-3 3.54 ERA 53 SO
Im sure some of you are saying who? But for a guys who wasn't even invited to spring training he has quickly become the ace of the Orioles. 7 of his last 9 starts have been quality starts with 5 wins.
Notable Mention: Nolan Reimold, David Price
NL MVP--Albert Pujols, St. Louis Cardinals .332 32 HR 87 RBI
I'd like to say this a hard decision but not really, He is First in Home runs, first in RBIs and fourth in average. Albert Pujols may be the very best player right now in the Major League.
Notable Mention: David Wright, Raul Ibanez
NL Cy Young--Tim Lincecum, San Francisco Giants 10-2 2.33 ERA 149 SO
This is another one where it didn't take much thought. The nickname of Lincecum is the freak and its a good one because of his freakishly good skills. Also he has helped the resurgence of the Giants putting them back in the playoff hunt.
Notable Mention: Dan Haren, Josh Johnson
NL Rookie of the Year--Pablo Sandoval, San Francisco Giants .333 15 HR 55 RBI
Sandoval is another reason the Giants are playing well having a fantastic rookie campaign. Also his play behind the plate has been good only committing 4 errors.
Notable Mention: Colby Rasmus, Tommy Hanson
Sunday, July 12, 2009
How Big can the UFC Get?
Saturday night was the much anticipated UFC 100 Pay Per View event, and i would like to raise the question of how big can this sport really get? If you ask Dana White (Owner of UFC) the UFC could be the biggest sport in the world. I wouldn't go that far but its not out of the question for it to be one of the big 4, joining Baseball, Football and Basketball. The one major thing its got is it appeals to young people, but is it too violent for mainstream. Personally i don't have a problem with the violence and there is more sport to it than people give it credit for. For all the UFC haters out there it is nothing more than a human cockfight. But there is submission moves and different styles of fighting. And now it seems that the UFC has a villain, after his successful Heavyweight Title defense Brock Lesnar show boated and rubbed his victory in the face of Frank Mir, The crowd booed Lesnar and he flipped them off. Hate him if you must but Lesnar's game has improved since losing his first fight to Frank Mir a year and a half ago. Personally Lesnar's antics doesn't bother me that much, the great thing about this sport if someone doesn't like it get in the cage and knock him out the greatest way to shut someone up. Maybe part of the reason for the sports popularity is because mainstream America doesn't approve, UFC is like the rebel of sports and to most that is appealing. Only time will tell if UFC grows to the height of a top 4 sport in the U.S. but if they continue to produce events like UFC 100 it wont take as long as you think.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Home Run Derby Turning into Slam Dunk Contest
As we approach the Annual Mid-Summer Classic one of the most fun things to watch in Major League Baseball is the Home Run Derby. The only problem with this years derby is we have more guys who don't want to do it than do. The National League participants are Albert Pujols, Ryan Howard, Prince Fielder and Adrian Gonzalez so far for the American League Brandon Inge, Joe Mauer and Nelson Cruz. Numerous of the games best home run hitters have said no thanks, that list includes Alex Rodriguez, Mark Teixeira and last years Champ Justin Morneau. Over the last couple years it seems like the slots have been harder and harder to fill and most of the Superstars would rather not do it. I compare it to the Slam Dunk contest because how many years have NBA fans wanted to see Kobe Bryant, LeBron James and Dwayne Wade in the contest and yet they continue to wait. Same goes for the derby imagine a final with A-Rod vs. Pujols, well keep dreaming. One of the biggest arguments for not being in the derby is that it affects your swing, and honestly i cant disagree. Case in point look at Josh Hamilton last year, Before The All Star Break: .310 Avg 21 HR 95 RBI; After the All Star Break: .296 Avg 11 HR 35 RBI. Average didn't drop much but the power numbers went way down. As much as i do love the derby it is almost getting to the point that if the biggest stars don't compete whats the point. In what used to be the most exciting thing during the All Star Break could turn into the biggest yawn.
Monday, July 6, 2009
McNair's Death still tough to Swallow
As most of you already know Steve McNair was found murdered in Nashville on the 4th of July. The news brought shock to all of the NFL community. McNair was always seen as a warrior on the football field, suffering numerous injuries and playing through them all. McNair was also always seen as a model citizen never getting into any off field troubles and donating to numerous charities. Which makes the last events of his life all that harder to comprehend. McNair who had a wife and four sons, was seen as a family man but the woman who was also found dead in the condo was reportedly McNair's girlfriend. Unfortunately because of these infidelity accusations questions about McNair's character have been raised. I don't agree with his relationship with the 20 year old but it is not my or anybody Else's place to judge him. All the relationship proves is that he is human just like everybody else, we all looked at McNair like he was a super hero but even super heroes make mistakes. I will remember Steve McNair for all of his on field success. The major one is the incredible Super Bowl performance, the season when he didn't practice but played every Sunday and played well, even in his short stint in Baltimore he created several memorable moments. McNair's lasting legacy should be what he did on the field and all of his charity work off of it, we lost a good person, R.I.P. Steve McNair (1973-2009)
Friday, June 19, 2009
Denver Looks to Unload another Star
Well unless you have been under a rock or you don't care about football you know that the Broncos are looking to trade Star Wide Receiver Brandon Marshall. Putting all of his personal issues aside how can you not be enraged if you are a Broncos fan. In a matter of months you could lose not only one of the best quarterbacks in the game but one of the best wide outs as well. It it unusual but i don't agree with the Broncos cleaning house in this way. With the Jay Cutler situation i do believe Cutler was being a baby the way he acted, but nonetheless i can understand why he would be upset hearing that the Broncos wanted to trade him. The Marshall situation is a little different Marshall wants to leave because he believed he is under paid and with a new quarterback his value might decrease after this season. Either way you look at it the Broncos have already lost one and are about the lose another fantastic player. This would be like the Patriots losing Tom Brady and Randy Moss. Maybe the most surprising thing about all of this is that some Denver fans actually don't have a problem with these two players leaving. I find that hard to believe, its OK to buy into a new coaches system and way of doing things but i don't understand how you could approve of this. Maybe I'm the one who doesn't get it who knows but i will be very surprised if the Broncos have better than an 8-8 record for the 2009 season.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Say it aint Sosa
On ESPN earlier today they reported that Sammy Sosa is another of the 104 names that tested positive back in 2003. Two questions come up in my mind, is anyone surprised or does anyone care. When Sosa was at the congressional hearing he all of a sudden forgot how to speak english. So ever since then there has been a cloud of suspicion over Sammy's head. Also the man hit 60 home runs in a season three times, before 1998 it had happened twice in the entire history of baseball if that doesn't raise eyebrows i don't know what does. There is a more glaring problem in this story to me if you are going to release one or two names from this 104 person list you have to release them all. Whether you like or dislike Sosa and A-Rod is irrelevant it is not fair that you pick and choose what names you decide to release. This steroid era is never going away i can accept that but if you release just one name every 4 to 5 months your just prolonging it more than it should be. Now obviously this all but ends Sosa's chance to be in the Hall of Fame as many writers have vowed to never vote for anyone linked to steroid use. It is bad enough that any names were released at all this was suppose to be anonymous just for Major League Baseball to see what kind of problem they had, why these tests weren't destroyed i don't think anybody will ever know. But they should do the right thing and release the rest of the 102 players, Sosa and A-Rod should not have to carry this by themselves when over 100 players are guilty of the same thing.
Stallworth to get 1 Month in Jail
It was announced earlier today that Donte Stallworth will be serving a month in jail after killing a man in March. For those not familiar with the case Stallworth was in Miami where he was drinking in a hotel bar, after he left he struck and killed 59 year old Mario Reyes, Stallworth's blood alcohol level was .126. Stallworth stated in his report that he tried to warn Reyes and also Reyes was also not in a crosswalk at the time of the accident. The first time i saw this i was extremely outraged i cant believe that he killed someone while driving drunk and all he gets is 30 days. I know the family got an undisclosed settlement so apparently they at least got something but this case shows the double standard for professional athletes. If me or any other average Joe got ourselves into this situation and was unable to buy our freedom there is no way we would get just 30 days. I'm sure that Stallworth is very upset about what happened and he will have to live with this for the rest of his life. But at least he gets to live the rest of his life and in a month he can get back to playing football. While the family has to go on missing a family member every day. This has to change just because Stallworth can buy his freedom doesn't mean he should be able to, i go with the old adage if you do the crime you do the time. One other point of interest will be what Roger Goodell and the NFL will do to Stallworth.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
All Start Rosters Shaping Up (Part 2 NL)
In my Last blog i went over the American League Voting Results as of now, so on to the National League.
Catcher-Yadier Molina, St. louis Cardinals
1ST Base- Albert Pujols, St. Louis Cardinals
2ND Base- Chase Utley, Philadelphia Phillies
3RD Base- David Wright, New York Mets
ShortStop- Jimmy Rollins, Philadelphia Phillies
OF # 1- Raul Ibanez, Philadelphia Phillies
OF # 2- Ryan Braun, Milwaukee Brewers
OF # 3- Carlos Beltran, New York Mets
Looking at the National League so far there aren't any glaring problems i have. The only one i can really think of is Yadier Molina, hes not having a great season but the only reason he leads McCann is because McCann was injured for part of the first month. The Most interesting part of the National League Race is the Outfield. From # 1 to # 5 they are only separated by 700,000 votes that may seem like a lot but consider that Chase Utley leads Orlando Hudson (who is second) by an outrageous 1.4 Millions votes. With a couple weeks left to go it should be interesting to see how it all plays out.
Catcher-Yadier Molina, St. louis Cardinals
1ST Base- Albert Pujols, St. Louis Cardinals
2ND Base- Chase Utley, Philadelphia Phillies
3RD Base- David Wright, New York Mets
ShortStop- Jimmy Rollins, Philadelphia Phillies
OF # 1- Raul Ibanez, Philadelphia Phillies
OF # 2- Ryan Braun, Milwaukee Brewers
OF # 3- Carlos Beltran, New York Mets
Looking at the National League so far there aren't any glaring problems i have. The only one i can really think of is Yadier Molina, hes not having a great season but the only reason he leads McCann is because McCann was injured for part of the first month. The Most interesting part of the National League Race is the Outfield. From # 1 to # 5 they are only separated by 700,000 votes that may seem like a lot but consider that Chase Utley leads Orlando Hudson (who is second) by an outrageous 1.4 Millions votes. With a couple weeks left to go it should be interesting to see how it all plays out.
All Star Rosters Shaping Up (Part 1 AL)
As we are now roughly a month away from the mid summer classic i would like to take time and look at the Current All Star Starters. In the American League here are the leaders
Catcher- Joe Mauer, Minnesota Twins
1ST Base- Mark Teixeira, New York Yankees
2ND Base- Ian Kinsler, Texas Rangers
3RD Base- Evan Longoria, Tamp Bay Rays
ShortStop- Derek Jeter, New York Yankees
OF # 1- Jason Bay, Boston Red Sox
OF # 2- Josh Hamilton, Texas Rangers
OF # 3- Ichiro Suzuki, Seattle Mariners
For the most part in the American League i agree with the majority of these selections, i just have two glaring problems one you see and one you dont. First the one you see Josh Hamilton being the # 2 Outfielder, first he hasnt played since May 31st due to injury and second his numbers are far from impressive hitting .240 with 6 HR and 24 RBI. My second problem is Ken Griffey is sixth in the voting and Adam Jones is 7th. Griffey is hitting .211 with 6 HR and 16 RBI while Adam Jones is hitting .324 with 12 HR and 41 RBI. Now you put these guys stats together no doubt you vote for Jones but Griffey is way more well known. But that is the problem with the All Star voting in Baseball, most fans vote simply on name recognition. The average fan doesnt look at stats and compare all they see is Griffey and Jones and 9 time out of 10 Griffey will get that vote. Its unfortunate that guys who arent well known dont get the voting mumbers they should. One good thing is that if Jones doesnt get voted in he will hopefully get a chance to be a reserve. So be sure to check out my next blog and ill go over the NL Starters.
Catcher- Joe Mauer, Minnesota Twins
1ST Base- Mark Teixeira, New York Yankees
2ND Base- Ian Kinsler, Texas Rangers
3RD Base- Evan Longoria, Tamp Bay Rays
ShortStop- Derek Jeter, New York Yankees
OF # 1- Jason Bay, Boston Red Sox
OF # 2- Josh Hamilton, Texas Rangers
OF # 3- Ichiro Suzuki, Seattle Mariners
For the most part in the American League i agree with the majority of these selections, i just have two glaring problems one you see and one you dont. First the one you see Josh Hamilton being the # 2 Outfielder, first he hasnt played since May 31st due to injury and second his numbers are far from impressive hitting .240 with 6 HR and 24 RBI. My second problem is Ken Griffey is sixth in the voting and Adam Jones is 7th. Griffey is hitting .211 with 6 HR and 16 RBI while Adam Jones is hitting .324 with 12 HR and 41 RBI. Now you put these guys stats together no doubt you vote for Jones but Griffey is way more well known. But that is the problem with the All Star voting in Baseball, most fans vote simply on name recognition. The average fan doesnt look at stats and compare all they see is Griffey and Jones and 9 time out of 10 Griffey will get that vote. Its unfortunate that guys who arent well known dont get the voting mumbers they should. One good thing is that if Jones doesnt get voted in he will hopefully get a chance to be a reserve. So be sure to check out my next blog and ill go over the NL Starters.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Sid the Kid Wins First Cup
The Pittsburgh Penguins capped a tremendous season last night after defeating the Red Wings 2-1 in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals. Now the NHL's best players has his first championship, but this post will not be about Crosby. I wanted to make the comparison of Pittsburgh and Boston. Since the Year 2000 Boston has 6 Professional Championships (Red Sox-2, Patriots-3, and Celtics 1). Now Pittsburgh hasn't been as successful as Boston but since 2005 the Steel City has 3 Professional Championships (Steelers-2, Penguins-1). Even their failures aren't bad for instance, the Boston Bruins lost in the Eastern Conference Semifinals but after a season that they had the best record in the Eastern Conference. And the Penguins last year of course lost in the Stanley Cup Finals. The only team in the two combined cities that i can think of that doesn't have a chance of winning a Championship is the Pittsburgh Pirates (0 Playoff Appearances since 1992). And Honestly being from Baltimore I'm wondering when we are going to if ever have a run like these 2 cities. The Ravens are the best chance for Championship dreams after advancing all the way to the AFC Title game a year ago. The Orioles while i see a bright future in the near future not so much. And the closest NHL and NBA teams are both in Washington DC. So congrats to the Penguins and Crosby but don't take this the wrong way i hope your success is short lived.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
16 Years Old and Baseball's Chosen One?
In a recent article in Sports Illustrated they did a cover story on a 16 year old prodigy Bryce Harper. Harper is a catcher at Las Vegas High School and he has hit a 570 foot Home Run and can throw a 96 MPH fastball. They are going as far as saying that he is Baseball's LeBron. Also his parents are considering taking him out of high school a year early so he can enter next years draft and not the 2011 draft. Now if the kid is good the kid is good but arent we putting a little to much pressure on someone who is just 16 years of age. Also is there a reason to rush him a year if Harper is as good as everyone says does it matter if he gets drafted in 2010 or 2011? We are seeing the same kind of hype and pressure on a certain catcher here in Baltimore. It has gone so far that a fan site for Matt Wieters has his Hall of Fame plaque and it says that he led the Orioles to 20 World Championships. Now i do believe Wieters will be a great player but putting him in the Hall of Fame is a little premature, though i understand why O's fans are putting all their hopes on this kid after 12 straight losing seasons. For Wieters and Harpers sake i just hope the pressure doesnt get to both of them. In Harpers case if you are already being called the Chosen One what do you have to do to not be a bust. How many records do you have to break? How many Championships do you have to win? Can Harper ever live up to the hype of being baseball's chosen one? only time will tell.
Friday, May 22, 2009
NCAA Lacrosse Final Four
The Second Round is done and the Final Four in Foxborough is set, first off here are the second Round Results:
# 1 Virginia 19, # 8 Johns Hopkins 8
# 5 Cornell 6, # 4 Princeton 4
# 3 Duke 12, # 6 North Carolina 11
# 2 Syracuse 11, Maryland 6
So i went 3-1 in this Round which leaves me a combined 10-2 for the Tournament which is pretty good. So on to the Final 4 Predictions.
FINAL FOUR
# 1 Virginia vs. # 5 Cornell
Virginia is the # 1 Seed and the have shown why scoring 37 goals which is by far the most in the Tournament, Cornell has played well but have had two close games, Virginia is the class of the Tournament and they should go into the Championship Game with ease and win it all.
PICK: Virginia
# 2 Syracuse vs. # 3 Duke
Syracuse is on the other side of Virginia giving up the least amount of goals in the Tournament at 10. Duke has had two different wins a blowout and a close one and though Syracuse's defense has been great there is something i like about this Duke team, so it should be an all ACC Final.
PICK: Duke
The ACC is the best conference in college lacrosse all four teams qualified for the tournament and if all goes the way i predicted it should be an all ACC Final.
# 1 Virginia 19, # 8 Johns Hopkins 8
# 5 Cornell 6, # 4 Princeton 4
# 3 Duke 12, # 6 North Carolina 11
# 2 Syracuse 11, Maryland 6
So i went 3-1 in this Round which leaves me a combined 10-2 for the Tournament which is pretty good. So on to the Final 4 Predictions.
FINAL FOUR
# 1 Virginia vs. # 5 Cornell
Virginia is the # 1 Seed and the have shown why scoring 37 goals which is by far the most in the Tournament, Cornell has played well but have had two close games, Virginia is the class of the Tournament and they should go into the Championship Game with ease and win it all.
PICK: Virginia
# 2 Syracuse vs. # 3 Duke
Syracuse is on the other side of Virginia giving up the least amount of goals in the Tournament at 10. Duke has had two different wins a blowout and a close one and though Syracuse's defense has been great there is something i like about this Duke team, so it should be an all ACC Final.
PICK: Duke
The ACC is the best conference in college lacrosse all four teams qualified for the tournament and if all goes the way i predicted it should be an all ACC Final.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Ripken Wants Answers
In a recent article on ESPN.com the Iron Man Cal Ripken said he wants an answer from Alex Rodriguez on why he used steroids. In the article Ripken states that he is going to make his business to find out why. Now like Ripken i wonder why someone who didn't need steroids would bother taking them. But with all due respect to Cal Ripken its really none of your business why A-Rod decided to take steroids. I'm sure Ripken feels like many of A-Rod's fans feel, angry maybe even a little betrayed, and the relationship Ripken has with Rodriguez I'm sure doesn't make it any easier. But my take on this is if A-Rod wants to talk to Ripken or for that matter anyone he shouldn't be pressured into doing so. A-Rod has to live with the decision he has made in his life and i have no problem with him no longer wanting to talk about it anymore. Also i think we can all agree that Rodriguez has talked more about his steroid use than any other player who has tested positive. So though Ripken says he wants answers doesn't mean A-Rod will open up to the Hall of Famer and as far as i am concerned that's ok. Rodriguez will talk to whoever he wants whenever he wants.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Roger Clemens continues to Deny Steroid Use
Today a book on Roger Clemens alleged steroid use was released to the public. In response Clemens was on Mike and Mike in the Morning to continue denying his use of steroids. Its gotten to the point does anyone care about this anymore. Another point does anybody believe what Clemens has to say, or to be honest what McNamee says, both seem to be liars. Roger Clemens is by far one of the best pitchers in baseball history and maybe the best of his era. For those who doubt his greatness just look at the numbers, 354 Wins, 3.12 ERA and 4672 Strikeouts. Now most baseball writers have gone on the record of saying that any player linked to steroids they will never vote into the baseball hall of fame. In theory i cant argue that but logically just because a player is linked doesn't mean he actually took anything. No matter how much evidence you have against Clemens, Bonds, McGwire and Sosa none of those guys ever tested positive. I still believe they all did but can you condemn them without having concrete evidence that all of them cheated. Maybe, maybe not all i know is that its sad for the game of Baseball that some of there biggest stars will be shunned from the Hall of Fame because they wanted to take the easy way out instead of working hard to become great.
Monday, May 11, 2009
NCAA Lacrosse Second Round
So the first Round of the NCAA Lacrosse Tourney is done and he were the Results:
# 1 Virgina 18, Villanova 6
# 8 Johns Hopkins 12, Brown 11
# 5 Cornell 11, Hofstra 8
# 4 Princeton 10, UMass 7
# 3 Duke 14, Navy 5
# 6 North Carolina 15, UMBC 13
Maryland 7, # 7 Notre Dame 3
# 2 Syracuse 11, Siena 4
If you Look at my blog about a week ago my First Round Picks were a pretty good 7-1, the only loss was UMBC losing to North Carolina. So Now its time for the Second Round Picks.
SECOND ROUND NCAA PICKS
# 1 Virginia vs. # 8 Johns Hopkins
Its hard to push aside a team the quality of a team like Johns Hopkins, but the Blue Jays are coming off a lackluster performance against Brown while Virginia destroyed Villanova it was 18-0 to start the Fourth Quarter. Virginia is just to good of a team.
PICK: Virginia
# 4 Princeton vs. # 5 Cornell
Neither team was overly impressive in their first round games but they both got the job done which is the most important thing. This to me will be a very tightly contested game.
PICK: Princeton
# 3 Duke vs. # 6 North Carolina
Duke handled Navy easily and Carolina squeaked by UMBC. This is the third meeting between the two. Duke has won both and though this goes against the old saying its hard to beat a team 3 times in a season, however if you are better its not.
PICK: Duke
# 2 Syracuse vs. Maryland
Part of me would love to pick Maryland in this especially after handing Notre Dame its first loss. But there is a reason Notre Dame was a seven seed and undefeated, Syracuse looked good but they should have. Syracuse wins but it wont be easy.
PICK: Syracuse
So My final Four is as chalk as chalk can get # 1 Virginia, # 2 Syracuse, # 3 Duke and # 4 Princeton, It should be a good one.
# 1 Virgina 18, Villanova 6
# 8 Johns Hopkins 12, Brown 11
# 5 Cornell 11, Hofstra 8
# 4 Princeton 10, UMass 7
# 3 Duke 14, Navy 5
# 6 North Carolina 15, UMBC 13
Maryland 7, # 7 Notre Dame 3
# 2 Syracuse 11, Siena 4
If you Look at my blog about a week ago my First Round Picks were a pretty good 7-1, the only loss was UMBC losing to North Carolina. So Now its time for the Second Round Picks.
SECOND ROUND NCAA PICKS
# 1 Virginia vs. # 8 Johns Hopkins
Its hard to push aside a team the quality of a team like Johns Hopkins, but the Blue Jays are coming off a lackluster performance against Brown while Virginia destroyed Villanova it was 18-0 to start the Fourth Quarter. Virginia is just to good of a team.
PICK: Virginia
# 4 Princeton vs. # 5 Cornell
Neither team was overly impressive in their first round games but they both got the job done which is the most important thing. This to me will be a very tightly contested game.
PICK: Princeton
# 3 Duke vs. # 6 North Carolina
Duke handled Navy easily and Carolina squeaked by UMBC. This is the third meeting between the two. Duke has won both and though this goes against the old saying its hard to beat a team 3 times in a season, however if you are better its not.
PICK: Duke
# 2 Syracuse vs. Maryland
Part of me would love to pick Maryland in this especially after handing Notre Dame its first loss. But there is a reason Notre Dame was a seven seed and undefeated, Syracuse looked good but they should have. Syracuse wins but it wont be easy.
PICK: Syracuse
So My final Four is as chalk as chalk can get # 1 Virginia, # 2 Syracuse, # 3 Duke and # 4 Princeton, It should be a good one.
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