Bowl Preview continued...

Well last night sucked as an Oklahoma State fan, but I'm positive if Dez Bryant never gets hurt we go onto to win that game by a decent amount (like the 10 point victory I predicted) I just hope people now see how mediocre Zac Robinson is, he looked completely clueless once Dez got hurt and he wasn't even close on a majority of those passes. If Dez stays healthy the defense isn't on the field as long in the 2nd half and doesn't ware down as easily. I also hope this victory can get Dez some Heisman hype going into next year because he is far and away the Cowboys best player.

I'd also like to state I don't like how the FBS is spreading out all the bowl games over the course of the 1st week in the New year leading up to the title game. Whatever happened to the Cotton Bowl being the 1st bowl of the New Year? Due to the increase each year with crappier and crappier teams making Bowls it's not even being played on New Year's Day. If the commissioners of the BCS conferences and TV want to BS us into thinking these bowls are about tradition then schedule them when they used to be!

But let's get to games for tomorrow:

Rose Bowl: USC vs. Penn St.

A showdown featuring 2 of the best defenses in the nation. I see USC throttling Penn State just like they've dismantled a Big 10 team there last 2 Rose Bowl appearances. If it does happen, how many Rose Bowls will USC have to dominate before BCS officials take away this crappy tradition? USC's defense will prove to much and Pete Carroll always has his offense ready to go after having a month to prepare. Trojans by 3 scores as they go into next year as the consensus #1 like they do every year.


Outback Bowl: South Carolina vs. Iowa

These 2 teams are heading in opposite directions, Iowa led by All American Shonn Greene is riding high winning 5 of there last 6 games (including a defeat to then undefeated Penn St.) While the Gamecocks lost there last 2 games by a combined 67 points, but due to increasing mediocrity in these bowl seasons 7 wins gets you in. If SC is to win this game they'll have to get up early and force Iowa to pass, this game could show off just how far ahead the SEC is infront of everybody (even in a down year) since Iowa is the 3rd best Big 10 team this year. I'll pick the Hawkeyes to finish strong.


Gator Bowl: Nebraska vs. Clemson

Here's a game I'll be missing because I'll either passed out or awake and not giving a crap, both teams ended the season well. Clemson did so after firing there HC mid season (deservedly so, that man defines underachieving) after failing to live up to there pre season top 10 ranking. Bo Pellini has Nebraska heading into the right direction and I'll take the Huskers.


Capital One Bowl: Georgia vs. Michigan St.

I expect the underachieving Bulldogs to put on a show in what many predict to be the last game of there college careers for Knowshon Moreno and Matt Stafford. Georgia will prove to be to fast for the Spartans, for Mich. St. to win they'll have to hope they can gash the Bulldogs run defense much like Georgia Tech's triple option attack did by running all over them. But speed and size and great tools at skill positions will be why Georgia rides high.


Orange Bowl: Cincinatti vs. Virginia Tech

I'm almost embarrassed to call this a BCS game, but Brian Kelly has Cincinatti in great shape as he awaits Charlie Weiss to keel over so he can over take him for the Notre Dame job. The Big East has won 3 straight BCS bowls while Va. tech has lost its last 4 and the ACC is on an 8 year skid (according to Yahoo Sports) I'm not gonna lie, I know squat about either of these teams so in a coin flip.....Cincinatti


And here's Robert who helped me giving his thoughts on the Holiday Bowl, he's the sports reporter for the University of Oregon's paper (http://www.dailyemerald.com/) He needs a picture, this came up when I google imaged Oregon sucks:


Here's his preview of the Cotton Bowl:
Texas Tech vs. Ole Miss:


I was sold on Texas Tech the moment Michael Crabtree broke free of the grasp of that Texas defensive back for the last-second touchdown. I also believe that, while the running game does lack that breakaway back, the Red Raiders runners provide passable balance. Jevan Snead has been everything and then some for Ole Miss, and they are playing with motivation, but if Peria Jerry and the Ole Miss defensive line cannot do enough damage against the Red Raiders’ offensive line (and I’m not sure they will), this one will be over within a half. Texas Tech 55, Ole Miss 33.

As for my personal thoughts, I expect it to be a close games in the 20's or low 30's and Ole Miss will give a better game then people are expecting. It's not like Ole Miss is incapable of putting up points and there defense is a lot tougher then people probably think, they can really fly to the ball. This was one of the toughest decisions for me when deciding games, but I'll pick Tech, the crowd should favor them too as this game will be the last Cotton Bowl before moving to the bigger more illustrious "Jerry World"



enjoy New Year's drunk people!

Bowl Preview

Since the bowl season is in full effect I got a couple of guys I know from my favorite sports website to help me with this bowl preview of some upcoming games. It started as this one guy I knew who goes to Oregon, and I go to Oklahoma State. Well even though that game is in an hour and a half I'll give the preview we wrote out for it.



The 1st preview is from a student who writes for the student newspaper at University of Oregon named Robert, here's his opinion for tonight's game:



My name is Robert, and (if you need this) I'm a sports reporter for the Oregon Daily Emerald (http://www.dailyemerald.com/), the UO student newspaper:



Oregon vs. Oklahoma State (Holiday Bowl): This is the best non-BCS bowl game on the slate, and it should be a scoring spree. Oklahoma State fans might be surprised by the depth Oregon exhibits on offense; the Ducks have an outstanding running back tandem (Jeremiah Johnson and LeGarrette Blount), an underrated tight end (Ed Dickson) and a deep receiving corp. Oregon fans might be surprised by Dez Bryant and Brent Pettigrew, the best wide receiver-tight end tandem the Ducks will have seen all year. It’s hard to go to intangibles to decide this, as the team who wins will have a 10-win season, but the Ducks play in a favorable location and have the Pac-10 looking up to them. I hate caveats, but I’m going to have to give one here. If Johnson, who suffered an ankle injury in practice two weeks ago, plays, Oregon wins 44-41. If not, Oklahoma State wins, 48-28.


My opinion:

As someone who has watched Oklahoma state all year, there weakness is pass defense and kickoff coverage. They've fared very well against the run this year (even against OU, until the defense just wore down at the end of the game) Both Oregon and Ok st. like to employ a spread formation and in my opinion both are run 1st offenses with fantastic running games. Obviously that doesn't mean the Cowboys aren't afraid to pass the ball to Dez Bryant (who is in my opinion the 2nd best WR in the country and had over 1300 yards and 18 TD's) All year teams have put a safety over the top to help the corner back against Bryant, which helps Kendall Hunter and QB Zac Robinson run the ball behind the likes of LT Russell Okung (future 1st day pick) I'm guessing who ever controls the clock more with there dominant running game will be the victor. And since I can't let my homerism get in the way of predictions, give me the 'Pokes by 10.



And for a preview of tomorrow's Peach bowl (Georgia Tech vs. LSU) here's my friend (and Katrina survivor) who follows everything that is Louisiana football and moderates the forums at realgm.com here's Salvatore Romano (not his real last name...I think)



The LSU Tigers, finishing the season losing 5 of their last 8, are limping into the Chick-Fil-A bowl, with the vaunted Tiger D looking to get on track and hoping the running game can mask the weakness and inexperience of Jarret Lee and the LSU air attack. Georgia Tech has gone with the same philosophy, looking to pound the ball with the triple option, controlling the clock while wearing out the defense.


LSU's defense has struggled with inconsistency as the season went on, but getting some guys healthy, particularly some of the Linebackers, will allow the tigers to play the run better than they have, and force Georgia Tech into throwing the ball, which has been a major weakness thus far.


Both teams will look to control the clock with the running attack, and whichever team can limit turnovers and force the other team into throwing the ball more than they want to will win this game. Look for LSU's massive offensive line to do a better job of opening up holes for the punishing Charles Scott, but if they can't, it could be a long day for Les Miles and company, with Georgia Tech being able to run the ball at will, the Tigers will have a tough time forcing them to throw the ball, but if they manage to do that, GT will not be able to take advantage with the passing game.


Prediction: LSU gets healthier, and they come out hungry to salvage what is left of a disappointing season, the huge offensive line dominates in the trenches, and Charles Scott, Keiland Williams, and Trindon Holliday have a field day, making things easier for Jarrett Lee and Andrew Hatch. The LSU defense comes out to make a statement and they limit the GT running attack just enough, and cause a few timely turnovers.


Tech can easily take this game if they get up early, and run the ball as they have all season, but I believe Les Miles continues the bowl streak, and finishes a dismal season on a positive note.LSU 27, Georgia Tech 17




I'll have some BCS bowl predictions soon, cya...

Picks for week 17

Before we start congratulations to my former high school Allen Eagles for bringing home the 5-A Division I state title. They did it beating 3 undefeated teams in there last 4 games and all without there starting quarterback. I missed the Cowboys/Ravens game last week (still haven't brought myself to watch it) in order to see us possibly win the title and it was all worth it. Unless you live in Texas you probably will never be able to understand the allure that goes into the state's high school football but I've been going to Allen games for a dozen years and there really is few things I enjoy more (since we've been a fantastic program for the majority of those dozen years) It's just great to see Allen finally get over the hump in what was a truly electrifying game.

Before we get to this week's picks I'd like to bitch about the absurdity that is Wes Welker getting fined for doing a snow angel after scoring a touchdown vs. the Cardinals this past Sunday (aren't they falling apart) He was fined 10 K for this. Shaun Ellis of the NY Jets was fined the same amount for throwing this huge block of snow (and it really was huge) at a fan in the front row this past week at the Giants/Seahawks game.



Now the Seahawks fans were out of line for throwing stuff at the Jets players as they ran into the lockerroom but it baffles me how you can get fined the exact same for doing a snow angel (and accomplishing the teams goal in SCORING THE BALL!) and throwing a giant block of snow at a fan (which could probably turn around and sue the NFL or press charges on Ellis) Ellis claims it was all in fun, I don't really buy it. When will this era of suck by commissioner Goodell end?

Onto the games:

Oakland Raiders @ Tampa Bay (-13)
Chucky coaching against his former team as he's fighting to lay claim to the 6th and final playoff spot as they play a home game at 1...Bucs please.

Cleveland Browns @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-11)
Mike Tomlin was awfully frustrated after last week's loss and you know he'll use this week as a tuneup for the playoffs. The 1st meeting between these 2 teams was 10-6 with swirling winds in Cleveland. But that was when Cleveland had a semi-competent QB. Steelers roll at home against this division foe and I like the over set at 34.

Tennessee Titans (-3) @ Indianapolis Colts
Pretty even matchup, I'm not even sure if the starters will play the entire game, normally Dungy is the type of coach to rest his players. I'm more of a fan of playing my starters and not mess up there rhythm or chemistry, if the Colts win this they'll be winners of 9 in a row probably going to play the winner of the AFC East. I'll take the Colts.

St. Louis Rams @ Atlanta Falcons (-14)
This is awful game #1 going on this weekend that nobody cares about. Falcons still have a chance to get the 2 seed so they'll sock it to the Rams.

KC Chiefs @ Cincinatti Bengals (-2.5)
Awful game #2, I think the Chiefs are the better team, really with a better offense. If they lose this game I'll chalk it up to tanking in order for them to lock up the #2 pick. I believe I read though if the Bengals win they can go from the 4th to 7th pick and that's quite a big dropoff. The Chiefs have the better QB and Herm Edwards plays to win the game I'd expect the Chiefs to win by a pretty fair margin. I'll take the under at 38.5

Washington Redskins @ San Francisco 49ers (-3)
Awful game #3, You're out of the playoffs and you just upset your division foe and you have to take a trip to the west coast to end the season, what a drag. The Redskins don't have much incentive playing great this game. San Francisco and the under at 37.5

NE Patriots (-6) @ Buffalo Bills
The Bills should be riding high after upsetting the Broncos on the road last week (and helping the Chargers in the process) But they're going to run into an absolute wall this week and get crushed by the Pats.

Detroit Lions @ GB Packers (-10.5)
It's going to happen, the Lions are going to lose and it will be glorious. I don't understand why people want the Lions to win saying no team deserves to go winless. For one, that's a load of crap, two, it's the perfect capper to the Millen ERA. Everything he's done will be embodied in this game completing this era of suckitude. And besides 1-15 is forgotten within a couple years it's happened countless # of times, 0-16 will be remembered forever and if you can get a QB and some great drafts and some solid defensive players you may be able to contend for a division. It makes the turn around that much more impressive. They've already had one of the worst baseball teams ever this decade with the 03 Detroit Tigers, why shouldnt the city of Detroit go for the worst city of the decade (which they've pretty much clinched)

Chicago Bears @ Houston Texans (-3)
The Texans blew there chance to have a winning record last week by getting shutdown by the Raiders. If the Bears can contain Andre Johnson like the Raiders did last week they can win. But that's easier said then done and I predict the Texans win to go 8-8 (a nice finish after a slow start)

NY Giants (-7) @ Minnesota Vikings
Everyone knows the Giants won't let up just because they locked up there #1 seed this week, but the Vikings feature one of the leagues best run defenses and they need to slow down Brandon Jacobs (if he plays) and Derrick Ward early and often. If Jacobs plays the matchup goes in favor of the Giants if not I'd say it's fairly even. I'll take the Vikings.

Carolina Panthers @ Nawlins Saints (-2.5)
Now I'm in a hurry, so let's see if I can rattle off these games real quick. Saints at home, Saints, take the over (set at 51.5)

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Baltimore Ravens (-11)
I like Jacksonville to cover but Baltimore outright

Seattle Seahawks @ Arizona Cardinals (-7)
I'll take the 'Hawks for the upset. Mike Holmgrem is getting an awful lot of attention for this send off. I know he's a good coach but I'm surprised it's garnering this much attention.

Miami Dolphins @ NY Jets (-2.5)
4 of the Dolphins last 6 wins has been by less then 5 points and another by a TD. There luck has to end eventually, right? They'll fall back down to earth next year it's just annoying to see as I keep going against them. And why change that this week? J-E-TS JETSJETSJETS!

Dallas Cowboys @ Philadelphia Eagles (-1.5)
These 2 teams are so hard to predict, I could see either of these teams come out flat this game but can also see either team look unstoppable. I can see either of these teams miss the playoffs (and obviously at least one of them will) but can also see them making the NFC title game. These 2 teams combined for nearly 80 points there 1st matchup and I'd bet we'll see less then half of that this Sunday. This will be a grind it out game, I just hope the Cowboys will be able to contain McNabb and sack him when they have the chance (he probably alluded 4 or 5 sacks there 1st matchup) You know I gotta take my boys but it's not a very confident or inspired pick.

Denver Broncos @ San Diego Chargers (-8)
Is there any doubt that the Chargers will win? After climbing back to be a game from the playoffs it'd be a complete Norv Turner move for them to blow this game, but I don't expect that to happen. These guys will be hungry and pissed off (see the week they beat the Patriots) since they should already be in the playoffs. Phillip Rivers will abuse the Broncos secondary and show why he's better then Cutler at this stage in there careers. As for there playoff implications, if the Broncos win, they're likely one and done. If the Chargers win, I can see them making a little noise in the playoffs.

I'm working with some people and will try and get a bowl preview up, until then...

Andrei Kirilenko loses dignity for a foul call...

This is the type of crap that turns fans off to the game, this video here is so vile, disgusting and a whole slew of other words that I cannot describe for this video.

Not only does this video look bad upon initial viewing but then when you see the slow motion replay of it do you get the full displeasure of this heinous act.

*Warning* children, pregnant women or faint hearted people may want to look away




Now later in the game Dirk got ejected for "hitting" a guy after retaliating from being pushed in the back (and of course the refs missed it, they missed about 15 other calls last night) But this display by Kirilenko, should not only have gotten him ejected, but fined suspended, had his Russian wife who's a model or pop singer taken away from and dare I say it, deported.

And what's even worse is that refs fall for this crap, time and time again.

Picks for the weekend...

Not much time today gotta get to my picks quick

Baltimore Ravens @ Dallas Cowboys (-4)
Both times the Ravens played the Steelers they should have won only to screw up towards the end of the game. Actually these teams should be a combined 3-0 vs. the Steelers if not for some screwups but oh well, there luck will run out in the playoffs. I think both defenses are top notch and it will come down to offensive line and quarterback play. In this case I see the Cowboys having the edge (experience at QB and the Cowboys defensive blitzes will be a bigger problem for the Ravens o-line then the other way around) And if the Cowboys needed any more extra motivation it's the last game at Texas stadium, Cowboys.

Nawlins Saints (-7) @ Detroit Lions
The Lions have been playing close as of late and aren't just rolling over. Many people think this will be the week they get that win they so desperately seek, I don't necessarily think they'll win but I see them covering. I'll take the over which is set at 50

Pittsburgh Steelers (-2) @ Tenessee Titans
With Kyle VandenBosch and 'Fat' Albert Haynesworth not playing this game I see the Steelers winning this game and end up with home field advantage throughout the playoffs.

San Francisco 49ers (-5.5) @ St. Louis Rams
The only advantage the Rams have going for them in this game is it's a noon start time and west coast teams have sucked all year in the early starts. But I still like Singeltary's club playing a team who's lost 8 straight.

Cincinatti Bengals @ Cleveland Browns (-3)
What an awful game, can't they just simulate this on Madden, to think people will actually pay to go to this game is a little unsettling. I like the Browns defense more so I suppose I'll take them.

Miami Dolphins (-3.5) @ KC Chiefs
I'm tired of watching the damn Dolphins win, they inch by every week not winning convincingly it makes it hard to pick them every week and frankly I'm not doing it this week either. I like Tyler Thigpen and Dwayne Bowe and if they can slow down the run just a little bit they will win. CHIEFS!!!

Arizona Cardinals @ NE Patriots (-8)
Again a west coast team traveling east (and the Cardinals have not fared well going East or playing the noon game) And they'll probably be resting there players before they gear up for there playoff game in 2 weeks, this should be a cakewalk for the Patriots.

San Diego Chargers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-3.5)
The Chargers have the ability to win this game, but they're so unpredictable and erratic nobody knows what to expect. The noon start as I've mentioned a couple times in this article already, has affected every west coast team in just about every game not to mention the NFC South's dominance at home. Just to much going against the Chargers for me to pick then (and believe me I'd love to) take the Bucs.


Houston Texans (-7) @ Oakland Raiders
Houston has been playing like a playoff caliber team and there victory against the Titans last week should go a long way going forward for this teams confidence. If they want to be taken seriously, they need to be able to win games like this against the Raiders convincingly. It will be interesting to see Nnamdi Asomugha go up against Andre Johnson for the Texans. Texans

NY Jets (-3.5) @ Seattle Seahawks
The Jets are 0-3 when traveling to the West Coast this year and this will be an emotional game for the 'Hawks this week in hopes to get a win for Mike Holmgrem, I'll take the Seahawks

Buffalo Bills @ Denver Broncos (-6.5)
Last week's loss for the Bills was just a typical Sunday in the city of Buffalo, chalk that up as the 798th crushing loss for that city but they should keep there head up. They can win this game if Denver allows Marshawn Lynch to walk all over them like they let the Panthers running attack last week. I like the Bills

Atlanta Falcons @ Minnesota Vikings (-3)
The Vikings looked great last week and surprisingly they won because of Tarvaris Jackson and not in spite of him, I like them this week, perhaps it wishful thinking that I think they will win but I'm desperately hoping the Falcons lose because they are probably a shoe in for the playoffs since they play the Rams next week.

Philadelphia Eagles (-5) @ Washington Redskins
The skins have no chance, only saving grace is it's a home game. I expect Philly to keep on truckin

Carolina Panthers @ NY Giants (-3)
People are expecting the Panthers to win, it's not gonna happen, why? well because I'm trying to get this article over with so my friend can have his laptop back.

Monday Night
GB Packers @ Chicago Bears (-4)
The Packers are being left for dead, but this rivalry should revive them. They have lost so many close games they're bound to win one. DUH DUH DUH DA DUH DUH DUH GO PACK GO!

CYA NEXT WEEK.

and go allen eagles win state this week damnit!!

Thursdays pick

Indianapolis Colts (-6) @ Jacksonville Jaguars


In an attempt to possibly salvage there season the Jaguars, the Jags take on the Colts who I believe can clinch a playoff berth for one of the 2 AFC wildcard spots with a win. Marvin Harrison won't be playing for the Colts which could make things even more difficult. The only reason I'd give the Jags a chance in this game is they're coming off a win and they beat the Colts in week 3. I expect the Colts to keep on chugging en route to their 8th straight win.

Week 15 picks

What a heartbreaker last week, in the past 4 seasons the Cowboys have probably had about 8 losses as bad or worst then that one. This city is cursed, it needs a name though, about the best I can come up with is the Curse of Laura Miller, perhaps a suggestion of names would be nice (or would comments in the comment section be to much to ask?) But hey when your QB can't hit the broad side of a barn and your defense goes into prevent defense at the end of the game, these things aren't unlikely to happen. I absolutely loathe the prevent defense, the only time it is somewhat acceptable is when you're up by 2+ scores in the 4th quarter, til then I want them jamming guys at the line (because the Cowboys suck at zone coverage too)

But I'm proud of this Cowboys defense, Wade Phillips gets a lot of crap as head coach but this defense has been lights out since he's taken over calling plays, and I think tonight they'll bring the heat and get in Eli's face. Brandon Jacobs missing the game is HUGE we have to stuff the run though, Derrick Ward isn't as big as Jacobs but he's quick and shifty, a quality back as is Ahmad Bradshaw. This Cowboys team is so hard to judge, one week you think the offense is back and then they put up a clunker where Romo can't hit the back of his lineman's ass (like last week) The Cowboys desperately need Atlanta to drop one of the next 2 games (vs. Tampa or @ Minnesota) because they close the season against St. Louis, they win those next 2 games they're likely in because I have a hard time seeing the Cowboys win all 3 remaining games.

Before we get to picks, I suggest you go read this hilarious post about 25 'true' stories about Ricky Henderson throughout his career: http://www.faniq.com/blog/The-25-Best-Rickey-Henderson-Stories-Of-All-Time-Blog-15243


Picks:

Tampa Bay @ Atlanta Falcons (-3)
Last week the Bucs got ran over on Monday night, one of the most dominant running performances I'd ever seen (consider the stature of the Bucs defense) Both of these teams have been fairly resilient following losses, when in doubt take the NFC south team at home, Falcons, despite the Bucs beating him up the 2nd week of the season.

I have to say though I'm very impressed with how Antonio Bryant has been playing this season, he's always had the talent but his head caused him to slip in the draft and be kicked off 2 teams, last week on Monday Night he may have made the catch of the year though




Tennessee Titans (-3) @ Houston Texans
The Texans went into Lambeau and delivered Green Bay's 5th loss this year by 4 or less points, they're playing like a playoff football team and are a forced to be reckoned with (as they build momentum looking forward to next year) This is a true test today vs. the Titans stingy defense and could be big going forward. The Titans need this game going forward because a win leads to them getting closer to clinching home field advantage throughout the playoffs (although a win next week vs. the Steelers would do that too) Texans for the upset

Washington Redskins (-6.5) @ Cincinatti Bengals
The Redskins offense hasn't been impressive in weeks but since the tie 4 weeks ago against Philadelphia the Bengals have allowed 27, 34 and 35 points, somethings gotta give, 'Skins

Seattle Seahawks (-2.5) @ St. Louis Rams
The 'Hawks lost a squeaker at home vs. the Pats last week, they kicked the crap outta the Rams last time they met and I expect much of the same this time.

Green Bay Packers (-2.5) @ Jacksonville Jaguars
Neither team has good records but at least the Packers are playing close every game, GO PACK GO!

San Francisco 49ers @ Miami Dolphins (-6)
Going into this season this may have been penciled in as one of the 5 worst games of the year, but right now both teams are playing tough competitive ball with the 49ers pulling off the upset of the Jets (who are 0-3 when travelling to the west coast this year) while the Dolphins keep on trucking beating the struggling Bills in Toronto. I have to take the Dolphins this game because it's a 1:00 start time and every west coast team that has travelled east to play the early game has lost, Dolphins.

Detroit Lions @ Indianapolis Colts (-17)
I went against the Colts last week figuring they hadn't had but 1 blowout all year, but then they showed they can kick the crap out of absolute suck, and the same will happen this week. Lions

San Diego Chargers (-6) @ KC Chiefs
Another West Coast team having to play the early game, will be interesting to see how the Chiefs play considering they lost the last meeting between the 2 because of a decision to go for 2 (which I thought was a great decision by Herm Edwards, no sarcasm) I'll take the Chiefs to cover

Buffalo Bills @ NY J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS (-7.5)
The strug-a-ling Bills vs. the strug-a-ling Jets who will win this matchup between these 2 strug-a-ling teams? All I know is I could care less about the Jets strug-a-ling. And now for the obligatory Joe Namath drunk video



Jets for the bounceback win, the Bills have fallen off the map.

Minnesota Vikings @ Arizona Cardinals (-3)
This is a very interesting game right here, the Vikings really need this win, they have a tough tough schedule to finish out the year playing the Cardinals, Falcons and Giants, they lose this game they're tied with Chicago and could be at the outside looking in for the playoffs (though I think they're clearly better then Chicago) The Cardinals have the division wrapped up and at this point are just playing for the higher seed. The Cardinals can slow Adrian Peterson down early and if that happens the Vikings will be in trouble getting down to a dynamic offense like the Cardinals, I'll take the home birds in this one.

Denver Broncos @ Carolina Panthers (-7.5)
The Broncos have looked better the past 2 weeks and I anticipate this to be a close game, but the Broncos still aren't proven against the run, I doubt the Panthers rush for 300 yards again but if the Panthers control the clock it certainly is feasible. But I like the Broncos on the road here (again going aginst logic)

NE Patriots (-6.5) @ Oakland Raiders
Interesting game today since Matt Cassell didn't practice all week, the last time a QB played the Raiders following there dad's death he put up one of the greatest QB performances of all time, but I doubt we'll see an encore performance of that today. The most intriguing matchup this week will be Randy Moss vs. Nnamdi Asomugha (hey I spelt it right on my 1st try!) The best 2 players at there positions going against each other. The Raiders offense sucks to much to keep them in the game the entire time though

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Baltimore Ravens (-2.5)
2 of the toughest defenses in the league and one of the few instances where I'll take the under (set at 34.5) The loser should go onto win the division while the loser should settle into the 6th wildcard spot. Whichever QB makes less mistakes and is under less pressure, who knows who that will be, both QB's are sorta week to week (Flacco b/c he's a rookie) I'll take the Ravens, they were more impressive the 1st time they played though they lost.

NY Giants @ Dallas Cowboys (-3)
Pretty much a coin flip situation, we have the talent they have the production. Protect Tony Romo we win the game. There defensive line has struggled lately with getting pressure, not sure if that's good but although they clinched the division they'll come out motivated because they want home field. I hope Marion the barbarian is healthy enough to play, we needed him in the 4th last week. This matchup is to tough, it could come down to some fluke play like last week where it was a miscommunication and for the 15th time that day a pass sailed on Tony Romo. I don't even really like to think about it because I hate to think about my Boys losing, screw it Cowboys.

Monday Night
Cleveland Browns @ Philadelphia Eagles (-14)
Now everyone's back on McNabb's jock in Philly (what a bunch of flip floppers. I say this as if half of Dallas didnt jump ship on Romo from this past week) It's time for them to disappoint as the stretch run comes, even if they disappoint this week that should be enough to beat the Ken Dorsey led Browns. Eagles

until next week...

End of the winter meetings...

Lot's happening in the baseball world, although free agency had been going on for several weeks, it didn't feel like it until the start of the winter meetings. Where GM's, agents and hack beat writers all gather at a convention in a city of there choosing. This year it was done in sin city, VIVA VIAGRA! Er I mean viva las vegas, stupid lame commercials.

A lot of speculation on the writers and bloggers part for much of the week as GM's send out rumors through writers or people (like Peter Gammons or Ken Rosenthal) are able to gather up some very interesting tidbits, most of which won't come true but who doesn't like to play the speculation game, nothing ever goes wrong there, all happy thoughts, for the most part. And then there's super agent extroardinaire Scott Boras. He's like Nick Naylor, except instead of convincing you cigarettes aren't bad he's selling you that his players won't underachieve throughout the life of the contract, and it works time and time and time again. Derek Lowe, Jason Varitek and Mark Teixeira may have not signed with anyone yet but they're waiting for the market to set and I can guarantee Teixeira is going to get at least 19 more likely 20 million a year.

But now talking about the deals that went down over the week:

• C.C Sabathia - signs with Yankees 7 years 161 million
• 
  With plenty of salary coming off the books for the New York Yankees you knew they were going to be active, even before the meetings, letting go Andy Pettite, Jason Giambi and Bobby Abreu (though they all could be back) re-signing reliever Damaso Marte and acquiring Nick Swisher from the White Sox on the cheap after he had a down year. So as I said, the Yanks had money to spend and there target was #1 free agent and future staff ace CC Sabathia. He signed a 7 year 161 million dollar deal with a clause in his contract that he can opt out of after the 3rd year if he so chooses. This is a very risky move, but could be have a huge payoff if he fetches them a World Series trophy, the Yankees struggled with there young starting pitching and also experiences plenty of injuries too so obviously this was there main priorities.
  
  This entire deal in my opinion heavily favors C.C. instead of being a team friendly deal, if he picks up where he left off and is a top 5 pitcher for the next 3 years, he can opt out and get another 7 year deal (he'll only be 31) plus he has a full no trade clause. Also if C.C. gets injured that's another risk to the deal in his favor, he has thrown nearly 500 innings in the regular season the past 2 years and by the time the playoffs have come around he has been gassed, giving up 20 ER in 4 post season starts. And everyone is always going to be worried about his weight, it's not as big a deal to me as potential arm injuries are but when you weigh over 300 pounds that will be the 1st thing people want to talk about, especially since the media is so weight conscience.
  
  All in all, you figured this deal was going to happen, the Yanks always make the big splash when they see someone they like and he and newcomer AJ Burnett help solidify this rotation with Chien-Ming Wang and hopefully a healthy Phillip Hughes and Joba Chamberlain at the back of the rotation. It's a risky proposition but when you're making the kind of dough the Yankees are pulling in you tend to not worry about such trivial things. Now all they really need to do is get 1 more decent starter for some added depth.
  
  
• AJ Burnett - signs with Yankees 5 years 82.5 million
• 
  When people say don't give pitchers long term contracts this is what they mean, in 2 years we may look back on this as one of the dumbest moves in the last 5 years when it comes to free agnecy. I'm curious if part of the reason they signed him was because of his recent sucess vs. the Yankees (2007 15 IP 1 ER 13 K's, 2008 38.1 7 ER 43 K's) This guy's always had the stuff and the heat which has what's been attractive about this fireballer but he's constantly hurt, the only 2 times he's gone over 200 IP's were both in contract years. Now aside from his contract years in the past 5 years he's been a good pitcher but he's also going to miss 10 starts a year for various injuries, and I won't be shocked if it happens this year (or any year) as the Blue Jays pitched him a career high 221 innings this past year. If they wanted to sign an oft-injured but effective starting pitcher they could have gone after Ben Sheets, his contract would have twice as short and twice as cheap. Last year at 118 innings he had a 5.23 ERA and his last 100 innings pitched was able to widdle it down to 4.07, now maybe he sorted some things out or it could have been the money motivating him to get his ERA down to respectability.
  
• Francisco Rodriguez - signs with New York Mets 3 years 37 million
• I was shocked that this deal went down so fast, it's like K-Rod took the 1st offer and was fine with that, if you would have told me 2 months ago he would have gotten this deal I would have laughed at you, I was damn near convinced he'd get at least 5 years for around 12 million a year. So in that sense it's a steal, especially given the short coming of the Mets bullpen the last 2 years. But I'm still expecting him to break down, given his already 450 IP as a reliever and he's not even 27, his violent delivery and his K rate falling and his WHIP rising, there just isn't much to like aside from past reputation. He just better not screw up in the 1st month of the season where the fans will be edgy after the last 2 years of September collapses.
  
  
• In a 3 team trade: Seattle trades relievers JJ Putz and Sean Green and OF Jeremy Reed. They received reliever Aaron Heilman, LHP Jason Vargas outfielders Franklin Gutierrez and Endy Chavez along with 3 minor leaguers. The Mets received JJ Putz, Sean Green and Jeremy Reed and traded Heilman, Vargas, Chavez and traded RP Joe Smith to the Indians. The Indians received Smith and 2nd baseman Luis Valbuena and traded Gutierrez.
  
  The Mets did a good job reshaping there bullpen this week and provided JJ Putz can stay healthy they come out big in this trade as he could possibly be a top setup man in the game, Reed can provide quality defense (and come in late games) and Green gets groundballs and be a decent guy to come in the 6th and 7th innings.
  
  For the Mariners I really think it's a bunch of mediocrity they're getting back, Gutierrez has a shot to become a solid everyday starter (and he's already an above average defender) But there's nothing special about Vargas utility player Endy Chavez or Aaron Heillman. This just makes me wonder who the closer will be for Seattle because I assume stud pitcher Brandon Morrow is going back in the starting rotation. The minor leaguers are interesting, they acquired 1st baseman Mike Carp who looks like he can step in at the start or middle of next season and be the team's 1st baseman, he's got decent power but nice OBP skills. And then there's 19 year old Maikel Cleto who throws 95 MPH, down the road he could possibly work out as a back end of the bullpen piece.
  
  For the Indians the 2nd baseman appears to be a spare part but Joe Smith is a solid guy for them to plug into the 7th inning. I'd say the Mets come out big winners in this trade and the Indians come out pretty good considering they were the 3rd wheel in this trade. The Mariners finished 3rd with there collection of mediocrity, although if there minor leaguers they got work out they can move up on this list. Interesting trade by there new GM.
  
• Raul Ibanez - signs with Philadelphia Phillies for 3 years 31 million dollars
• 
  This move was just a dumb move, I mean don't get me wrong Ibanez is a good player who's had 20 homers and 100 rbi's the last 3 years, but he'll also turn 37 next June and he's already a terrible defensive player, something you can't hide in the National league. I realize they were hesitant to resign Pat Burrell but he would have been a lot smarter signing then Ibanez, who's also a left hander I might add. So if they go a 3-4-5 of Utley/Howard/Ibanez you have 3 left handers up in a row, not exactly a good strategy. I suppose if Jayson Werth picks up where he left off last year he will hit 3rd inbetween Utley and Howard but that's still 3 out of 4 lefties in a row and 2 of those guys have struggled against lefties. Burrell is younger, has more power and a higher slugging % and gets on base more. It appears whoever signs him will be getting a bargain. He'd be great for a team in need of a DH.
  
• Tampa Bay Rays trade SP Edwin Jackson to the Detroit Tigers for OF Matt Joyce
  
  This was a smart move for the Rays, they were in need of another outfielder and needing to get rid of either Andy Sonnanstine or Edwin Jackson to make room for incoming superstar David Price. Jackson has the upside but with his lack of control Sonnanstine was a safer pick. Jackson was a league average pitcher last year but he was a bit lucky too, with a 1.50 WHIP 199 hits given up and 77 walks in 183 innings. Plus his strikeout numbers decreased by 20 despite throwing 22 more innings, not a great sign for a pitcher who lacks control. But he may be helped by the spacious Comerica Park in Detroit. Matt Joyce on the other hand had a very high slugging % and a .830 OPS in 300 AB's last year as a rookie, he profiles as a platoon player who can hit righties. I'd say the trade is about even with the upside of Jackson possibly swinging in there favor if he ever figures it out.
• Kyle Farnsworth - KC Royals for 2 years 9.25 million dollars
  
  This signing kind of reminds me of Family Guy when Chris Griffin walks out of a movie starring Kevin Costner and he replies, "How does Kevin Costner keep getting work?" Oh what I would give to have a 100 MPH fastball, as long as you have that you will always have a contract (wait for recently released Daniel Cabrera to get snatched up) I'm sure there were cheaper more effective relievers the Royals could have signed but maybe it's because current GM used to work as an asst. in the Atlanta Braves front office (although Farnsworth was only there for half a season) Dumb signing, only positive is this "experiment" can be done in 2 years.
• Kerry Wood - Cleveland Indians 2 years 20.5 million with club option
  
• Fantastic signing by a fantastic GM in Mark Shapiro, Wood was an effective closer for the Cubs last year and as long as he's in relief appears to be able to stay healthy. He had a 3.26 ERA converting 34 out of 40 save opportunities and 84 K's in 66.1 innings. This helps Cleveland adress a major weakness in the back of there bullpen as they look to be contenders next season. And if it doesn't work out, he'll be gone in 2 years anyways, nice signing.
• 
  
• Ramon Vazquez - Pittsburgh Pirates 2 years 4 million
• I'm going to miss this beautiful mustache. He was another success for hitting coach Rudy Jaramillo and he was a great #9 hitter for the Rangers this year. He provided some timely hits but shaky defense. He also was the guy who hit a 3 run homer 2 seasons ago in Baltimore to give the Rangers 30 runs, so you have to love him for that. He got a big of a big head at times feeling entitled to playing time despite being a utility player his entire career, almost not being able to accept going back in that role. I wish him the best, cheap but effective signing by a team that doesn't make them that often.
• IF'ers Casey Blake & Mark Loretta - Dodgers Blake signs for 3 years and Loretta for 1.
  
  The Dodgers now found there everyday 3rd baseman in Casey Blake, he'll provide good defense and decent power, offensively he is slightly above average and I imagine those #'s will go down when he plays his games in Chavez Ravine. Loretta is an underrated player, he won't provide much power but the past 4 years he's hit .280 and a .350 OBP, a quality backup who can fill in at multiple positions at this point in his career.
• Baltimore Orioles trade Ramon Hernandez to the Cincinatti Reds for Utility man Ryan Freel and minor leaguers Justin Turner and Brandon Waring
• 
  This trade was done so the Orioles could make room for the best position player prospect in the game catcher Matt Weiters. It works for the Reds as they get rid of the overpaid Freel and fill a position of starting catcher that they had been looking for since last season. Freel had been a decent utility man playing multiple positions but had missed over half the season the past 2 years. He's the type of player fans love to come see for his all out hustle and diving for balls in the outfield. Hernandez I feel is better then this package though, the Orioles last year had embarrassing play at SS and this trade should have been able to provide them either a decent starter at SS or a future piece, and if not that, why not try and get a decent pitcher (like Homer Bailey?) The important thing for them is that Weiters (the early favority for rookie of the year) won't have to split time at the major league level next year and doesn't have to look over his shoulder in case he struggles at the start. He'll be a fantastic catcher sooner rather then later and an MVP candidate in a few years.
• 
  
  After this trade the Reds also signed 37 year old lefty reliever Arthur Rhodes to a 2 year deal, another nice cheap signing for someone who had a bounceback year last season.

Thursday Night Football

I really don't dig the Thursday night game, and it's not because I don't have NFL network, it's just not appealing to me. I don't like how as the end of the NFL season nears you get less and less games on Sunday and more on Friday or Saturday, you just tend to miss more games that way unless you have nothing on your plate. But everyone is always busy around the holidays whether it's shopping or some sort of family or company engagement.

Anyways here's my Thursday night pick:

Nawlins Saints @ Chicago Bears (-3)

Both teams are fighting for there playoff lives, both teams coming off wins and both teams with the same record at 7-6. Neither team plays great defense, at times the Bears play good defense, it helps when they play a team without a passing game (like last week in Jacksonville) that won't be the case this week (although the Saints turned in there best rushing performance of the season vs. the Falcons last week) The weather doesn't look like it will be a huge factor tonight so as long as the wind is fine the Saints are at an advantage. I expect plenty of scoring in this game and the Saints coming out with a victory and suddenly people start looking at them again and getting a little scared.

The over/under is 46 I'll take the over

Gerald Laird traded to Detroit...

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/8910862/Source:-Tigers-acquire-catcher-Laird-from-Rangers?CMP=OTC-K9B140813162&ATT=49

Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports is reporting he's been traded to the Detroit Tigers for 25 year old minor league right hander Guillermo Moscoso and low lever minor league pitcher Carlos Melo.

Moscoso was ranked as the #10 prospect in Detroit's farm system by Baseball America but Detroit is a system that is all tapped out at the moment, due to some trades the past couple years. He had an arm injury in 2005 but this past year he had some very nice #'s for High A and AA.

On the season he made 9 starts and 12 relief appearances and went 5-4 with a 2.70 ERA in 86.2 innings. He seems to possess pin point control just walking 21 guys and striking out 122 men. He held batters to a .194 average.

And to look up some stats on the 17 year old Melo he played in the Domican Summer League last year and should head to the states this year, here's some stats on him: http://minors.baseball-reference.com/players.cgi?pid=35991

The only real negative to this trade in my opinion is Moscoso, like Laird is on the 40 man roster and it wouldn't hurt to clear a couple spots on the 40 man so we don't have to cut another player in spring training. But Laird has whined and complained and overstated his abilities his entire time as a Ranger. He's very cocky and arrogant and it really frustrated me that he got playing time (especially later in the season) over Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Taylor Teagarden and Max Ramirez. One thing I will miss is his ability to bunt, best bunter in the league, and he was surprisingly speedy for a man of his size. If you weren't watching he'd steal a base on you, at times his defense was good throwing out base stealers but those skills seemed to have regressed last year.

The Winter Meetings for baseball is this week and I won't be shocked if this isn't the only splash the Rangers make, might not be the only catcher that's traded. I'll try and write a review at the end of the week on deals that happen.

picks

Pretty pointless to do picks now but ive done it before and i was annoyed i didnt do it last week, let's get to it

Minnesota Vikings (-10) @ Detroit Lions
Many think this is the best chance for the Lions to get a win, and they will probably come out playing hard because it's probably in the back of there minds. Then they'll proceed to fall flat on there face. Vikings

Cincinatti Bengals @ Indinapolis Colts (-13.5)
Colts have blown out 1 team this season and have had some very fortunate victories, Bengals have played some top talent close but haven't won, the same should hold true today, Bengals to cover, Colts outright

Atlanta Falcons @ Nawlins Saints (-3)
Saints I desparately want you guys to win, the more losses the Falcons get the better, I trust you guys at home today

Philadelphia Eagles @ NY Giants (-6.5)
Now everybody loves McNabb again it's time for a clunker, the Eagles are fully capable of pulling off the upset but I don't think it's gonna happen, Giants. I hate picking them, the O/U is looking mighty low at 40.5

Houston Texans @ GB Packers (-7)
Both these teams have lost there share of heartbreakers and it's why both teams appear to be on the outside looking in for the playoff race, I like what the Texans have been doing and think they're fully capable of pulling off the upset, assuming Matty Schaub isn't rusty to start the game, I like the Texans

Cleveland Browns @ Tennessee Titans (-14)
They kicked the crap out of every other mediocre team they've played. The only reason the spread isn't bigger is because the Titans aren't a dynamic offense but with Ken Dorsey starting for the Browns it is going to get ugly. Cowboys fans look out for a potential Richard Bartel sighting. Titans

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Chicago Bears (-6.5)
Jags suck, DA BEARS

NY Jets (-4) @ San Francisco 49ers
Why are the Jets favored by just 4? I realilze Singeltary has them playing well but I just see them getting destroyed today, O/U is at 45 take the over.

NE Patriots (-7) @ Seattle Seahawks
Another east coast team going out west and another low spread, Patriots have to get out there anger after getting destroyed last week. Oh and I forgot to mention the Jets need to do the same thing this week, what an embarrassment against the broncos

KC Chiefs @ Denver Broncos (-9)
It would be classic if the Broncos lost this week, I mean they're in the playoffs so if they blew this game just to mess with people I'd respect it, how do you get blown out at home vs. the Raiders then win AT the Jets, doesn't make sense. Even though the Chiefs dominated Denver before I expect the good Broncos to come out this week.

*Sidenote* one of my favorite Simpsons moments was when Homer dream is to become the owner of the Dallas Cowboys and then at the end of the episode he becomes the owner of the Denver Broncos and he lets out, "OHHHHHHHHHHH the Denver Broncos" That episode "You Only Move Twice" with Hank Scorpio is probably my favorite episode ever.

Miami Dolphins @ Buffalo Bills (-1)
The Bills are to hard to predict, but they did just embarrass themselves last week, but they're playing there 1st game ever in Toronto so the atmosphere should be raucous. I guess I'll take them

St. Louis Rams @ Arizona Cardinals (-14)
The Cardinals are back at home after a big layoff and a slaughtering of the birds, this will get ugly though for the Rams

Dallas Cowboys @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-3.5)
I think the Cowboys can and will win and it may be stupid especially since Marion Barber is out with his toe. Only thing I'm worried about (and it's dumb to say this as if it's a little thing) is the protection for Tony Romo. Flozell Adams and Marc Columbo have to play there best games of the season. They can't let Woodley and Harrison get free and wreak havoc because that's how they blew out the Patriots last week (along with a specials teams gaffe by the Pats) I'm confident in our corners though and Demarcus Ware to be healthy and even though the Steelers line has been better the last 2 games we need to be in Big Ben's face all day and freakin wrap up a QB for a change. We win this game we will make the playoffs. That whole paragraph wasn't very confident sounding but I'll be a homer and take the Cowboys

Washington Redskins @ Baltimore Ravens (-6)
Washington's playoff hopes are hanging by a thread and it's over if they lose tonight. There secondary is good enough to where it may cause Joe Flacco some problems, especially if there mediocre running game is shut down early. Baltimore needs this game as badly as the 'Skins to get a wildcard spot. They're at home I'll take the Ravens

Monday Night
Tampa Bay Bucs @ Carolina Panthers (-3)
I think the reason I'm somewhat biased against these 2 teams is I don't find them interesting or intriguing at all, and the fact that the Bucs lost to Brad Johnson. There's nothing about these teams that makes me really confident about them, and it's really offensively I speak of because they both possess some really talented defensive players. Oh but you want me to choose the game, NFC South, take the home team. Thems the rules, Panthers


I apologize also to the millions (AND MILLIONS) of my readers for not keeping up with this blog the past month or 2, I had some momentum going but just can't seem to just sit in front of the computer and write on my blog. Perhaps it will change, but let's not bicker about thing i should be doing because I can be here all day. It's probably just best to ignore this half drunken rambling, but yea the quality isn't the best at this point, oh well, whattareyagonnado, read another blog? hogwash

Pick for Thursday...

Tonight's game will be on 3-d in select cities. I'm not sure if I've ever seen any movie or show in 3-d, not saying I refuse to see it because it's a gimmick just stating I haven't.


Oakland Raiders @ San Diego Chargers (-9)
Norv Turner's gotta be gone after this year, right? One of the best offensive coordinators in the game, but not a head coach. Of course you could say they lost there season in week 2 with that crushing blow from Ed Hochuli, just brought the season to a screeching halt. I think they overachieved a bit last year making it to the conference title game, mainly because they've always had a favorable matchup vs. Peyton Manning when they have had a pass rush. They could be back next year, but will LaDanian Tomlinson be back? I'm not completely ready to call him washed up but he hasn't helped his case this season. I think everyone has been waiting on this to happen btu we didn't know when it would happen, because he never plays in the pre season, of course I'm not sure if he's fully healthy. Putting all this rambling aside I'll take the Raiders to cover, Chargers to win outright.


One last thing to add that just drips in irony is from this article I found Sunday in the Miami Herald how the refs made a controversial call in Saturday's Miami Heat/LA Clippers game in which the Heat lost by 1.

Dwyane Wade stole the ball and collide with a referee as he passed the ball to what would have amounted to an easy layup for the Heat, but due to an inadvertant whistle play was stopped and the Heat were given the ball out of bounds and lost.

Wade was furious following the game and had this to say, "We won the game, they took it from us. It wasn't even close to being a call. I don't even know how you can call something like that. We won the game. They took it from us."


This coming from a guy who has a championship ring because of refs and yet he still isn't happy, what more does this guy want? A guy who shot an NBA record 97 ft's in 6 games, didn't even need the 7th game, who nearly outshot the Mavs in the last 2 finals games himself is bitching about the refs, who pretty much made him what he is today, untouchable. He needs to get his priorities checked before Stern finds a new puppet and Charles Barkley kicks him out of his 5.

*Mark Cuban's head exploded upon reading this article.

Just some food for thought (what does this even mean?)