Dirt from the Big D

Podcast #2

2009-04-18T01:54:00.000-07:00

In this episode me and a friend discuss all things that are comedy. From sitcoms, to standup to movies. Also we'll discuss his recently finished screenplay as I pitch him new ideas for his next project

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Mitchell-Clemons/2009/04/17/Episode-2

This little blog

2009-04-15T15:26:00.000-07:00

may soon be moving to this little podcast.

I just recorded my 1st one and it's pretty bad for the most part. I keep breathing in my microphone and sound very monotone and often times I'm talking to my roomate who's not on a phone or microphone or anything.

But it's a step in the right direction and primarily what I want to do.

Here's the 1st episode:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Mitchell-Clemons/2009/04/15/Pilot-Episode

The Oscars and my Top 12 films of the year...

2009-02-24T10:47:00.000-08:00

Well the Oscar's are over and for the time being it looks like award season is over until the Nickelodeon Teen Choice Awards!!! In all seriousness though the Oscars are over and I couldn't be more annoyed, moreso at the results then anything. Why you ask? Because my opinion's better then the voters at the Academy.

As for the show itself, I thought Hugh Jackman did a good job as host, the musical numbers were great. Only thing that was partially bothersome was his little spiel on how "the musical was back!" But then that dance he did with Beyonce (who looked incredible) was nice. I don't think I'd want him back as a host though, I prefer comedy over dance numbers, perhaps Conan O'brien can do it next year since he'll be in LA from now on.

The one part that really bothered me was the past winners coming out and slathering on the praise to all the acting nominees. I really don't care to hear Whoopi Goldberg or Robert DeNiro tell Sean Penn he's a really neat guy, and it all took so long. Once they were finally introduced it took damn near 10 minutes to finally give out the award, what happened to just showing a film clip of each nominee, I don't think they've done that for several years. Gives you a better idea of the performances the actors took part in.

I'd say the 3 best things of the night was the Tina Fey/Steve Martin bit, the Japanese guy who knew about 16 words of English and ends his speech saying, "Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto" now that's play to your constituencies. And then when Will Smith flubbed his line and drops, "Boom goes the dynamite!" leaving an entire internet community in hysterics.

And finally the worst part of the night were some of the awards that were taken home. Martin McDonagh deserved Best Original Screenplay over Milk, Wall-E deserved some type of award for achievement in sound but of course the Academy couldn't go away from Slumdog for more then 3 minutes. And the best actor/actresses awards went to those not deserving. Kate Winslet was about the only thing I liked in the movie 'The Reader' it just flat out sucked, I'm almost surprised her boobs didn't get 3rd billing in the movie since they were on screen so much. We get it Kate you like to show off your body because it's what a real woman looks like, newsflash Kate, most people go to movies to see a bit of eye candy not something they can see walking up and down the street 500 times a day. Anne Hathaway was much better in Rachel Getting Married.

Excuse me I just remembered the absolute worst part of the night, during the in memoriam montage, they forgot George Carlin. How embarrassing.

And the biggest snub of them all was Sean Penn getting best actor. He was a distant 3rd in my opinion with Mickey Rourke and Frank Langella of Frost/Nixon neck and neck (with Rourke coming out on top.) What I hated the most was I have to hear Sean Penn being a douchebag 1 more time and he never fails to live up to his billing. I could give a crap to what you have to say about gay marriage, just get up there thank people and get off when the music starts. Hell I even agree with what he's saying about gays being able to get married but why does he feel obligated to speak as if he's some activist where people actually respect his opinion. Not to mention look at the possible badass speech we could have seen if Mickey would have won, here's a taste of what we missed out on

Now onto my 2008 review of film:

This will go down as the year of the Dark Knight and deservedly so. It had ungodly expectations not just as a comic book film but as a possible cinematic masterpiece and not only did it surpass it, but it did so with flying colors and with one of the most haunting and revered villains to ever grace the big screen. People will also remember Robert Downey Jr. from this year scoring big with Iron Man and playing a black guy in Tropic Thunder, had his upcoming movie 'The Soloist' with Jamie Foxx not been pushed back and was released when it was scheduled to, 2008 could have been called the year of the Downey. People will also remember this when Mickey Rourke made it back big with his role Randy 'the Ram' Robinson in the Wrestler.

I think 2007 was more top heavy with films like No Country for Old Men, There will be Blood and Gone Baby Gone but 2008 put out more quality top to bottom when comparing the best films of the year, but not many of them just blew you away. And as far as the Academy goes I think the Wrestler, Dark Knight and even Wall-E got the shaft.

Now onto my most hated films of the year:

Worst film of the year: Normally I would never see such filth and I have an excuse as to why I was subjected to this giant piece of crap. The semester just ended up here at Oklahoma State and my parents were changing the carpet in our house and putting down tiles in there house. Apparently it took longer then it was supposed to when they were laying down cement. So when I got home I wasn't allowed to go into the house until the cement dried. So to kill a couple hours I went to the movies and since my brother couldn't get in a rated R movie we saw this instead of Role Models. It may have been the worst spent 8 dollars of last year. I'm ashamed that Jon Hamm (aka Don Draper in Mad Men) was associated with this. So everyone if you haven't been warned yet, stay away from this movie.

Movie with a great premise but terrible execution:
Hancock - This actually could have been a really really good movie, the 1st half was okay but the 1st and 2nd half of the movie were like 2 guys wrote 1 half of the script and then combined it without even thinking about it. And then when you see it on the big screen you think to yourself, "What the hell is going on???" A chance to have an original concept for a superhero and then BOOM out of nowhere we find out he and Charlize Theron were lovers (or was it siblings?) and things take a horrific turn.

Movie that makes me wonder why the hell it got award consideration:
The Reader - I hate hate hated this movie. Plus the entire time I was watching this movie this scene from the fantastic TV show Extras starring Ricky Gervais was in the back of my mind. Enjoy.

Other giant disappointments or movies I wish I hadn't wasted my time on:

What happens in Vegas - there is really no excuse to why I watched this. I watched this with my roomate and we pretty much mocked it the entire time.

Vantage Point - this movie is partly the reason why I hate action films. I'm able to suspend my belief, but not to the extent of some or most people, watching the final scene where Dennis Quaid is chasing the bad guy in his car made me want to throw something at the screen.

Harold and Kumar: Escape from Guantanamo Bay - This movie lacked the charm and whatever made the first one so great. They attacked race in the first film but it was funny, here aside from a few instances it just wasn't funny and then they almost tried to sound smart when attacking republicans but it just came up short. They were under pressure by a bunch of fan boys to make this movie but it was a disappointment as a whole.

Austrailia - I actually loved the 1st half of the movie but then it turned into a love story and was beyond repair. The stampede scene where they're near a cliff in the outback was thrilling stuff though.

Quantum of Solace - This was really disappointing especially considering how fantastic Casino Royale was. I felt dizzy through half the film too with all the shaky camera going on, particularly the opening car chase scene which all seemed like a blur as they were whizzing back and forth for the opening 10 minutes.

21 - A great premise from the book and then Hollywood gets a hold of it and does what they do best, add a love interest, violence where nobody can see and commotion between the main stars of the movie.

Films I liked but aren't making the top 10

Zack and Miri Make a Porno - Kevin Smith gets another comedy hit with this movie, only real beef was the rushed ending. Really ruined a good movie, it's almost like Smith forgot to write an ending and came up with it 15 minutes before he shot it.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button - I liked it better when it was called Forrest Gump

Pineapple Express - Comedically I was disappointed by this, it was ok but the action scenes were fantastic, or a lot better then anybody could have expected. As a whole I kind of think comedies were a bit weak (I still need to see Role Models though)

Vicky Christina Barcelona - I was expecting this to be more of a comedy than it was. Barcelona looks gorgeous in this flick though and the confidence Javier Bardem has when he approaches Scarlett Johannsen and Rebecca Hall is something I will forever envy.

Burn After Reading - "I have a drinking problem? F*ck you, Peck, you're a Mormon. Compared to you we ALL have a drinking problem!" It's a shame when the funniest part of the whole movie comes five minutes in, but in all fairness it was one of the funniest lines of the entire year.

Waltz with Bashir - rarely do I see a film without seeing the trailer, this was one of the few cases where I watched purely on hearing positive things about it. So I was playing catch up not really knowing what it was about most of the movie and because of that, I believe the impact didn't hit me nearly as much as it should have, because I'm sure most people have been just absolutely blown away by the ending. I'd recommend this.

Milk - "My name is Harvey Milk and I'm here to recruit you!"
This was a good movie with some good performances by the likes of Sean Penn, Josh Brolin and Emile Hirsch among others but I didn't think there was anything particularly special about it other then to show how dumb it was to hate on gays and how they almost lost there entire lives due to there sexual preference. Perhaps it will grow on me as the years pass since I'm sure it will age fine, perhaps even an iconic film for gay rights.

Iron Man and the Incredible Hulk - this was far and away the best years ever for comic books and I liked both of these films a great deal. In my opinion the action in the Incredible Hulk was better than Iron Man but the presence of Robert Downey and how he commands every scene he's in forces me to put Iron Man over the Incredible Hulk.

Step Brothers and Semi Pro - a couple of funny scenes and/or lines of dialogue surrounded by bits of mediocrity, which seems to be the common theme of Will Ferrell movies since Anchorman. Though the scene in Semi Pro where Tim Meadows calls Will Arnett a jive turkey was one of the more memorable of last year. Have a look for yourself, it's just so absurd it makes you laugh.

Leatherheads - I see this as a love hate film, I liked it alot after going in with low expectations. But George Clooney and Renee Zelwegger have great chemistry in this screwball comedy set in the 1920's.

Top 12 movies of the year...

Tied for 12/11/10 The Visitor/Doubt/JCVD

It was to hard for me to omit one of these pictures so I decided to just include all of them, there are all parts of each of these movies I really enjoy. For those who haven't heard of JCVD yes that is short for Jean Claude Van Damme, he stars in a movie playing himself where he's held hostage as a group of robbers try to make it seem as if he was the main culprit behind the robbery. Van Damme delivers a great performance and the subtitles really don't get distracting aside from one scene where VD delivers his heart felt monologue, this is the 1st of 2 Belgium films to appear on this list.

Doubt delivers great performance in the ensemble cast in this play turned movie. Phillip Seymour Hoffman is casted almost as a sympathetic figure despite being accused of molesting a child and all 3 women nominated for Oscars were deserving. Throughout the 1st half of the Visitor I just really dug the vibe of it as Richard Jenkins learns to play the djembe (skin covered hand drum) from his new found friend Tarek (played by Haaz Sleiman) You become attached to the characters as an outsider and feel sorry for Tarek and his wife Zainab as Tarek gets taken away by authorities for being an illegal immigrant.

9. Slumdog Millionaire
I awoke one Saturday December (or November) morning slightly hung over but wide awake enough to not go back to sleep. So I figured I'd kill some time by going to see a movie and after hearing good things about this movie I'd give it a go. It was good, real good but I'm not so sure it's deserving of all its praise it's gotten during award season. Just thinking back on it I just can't really get past just how implausible the entire movie and how all the pieces fall into place magically, and yet everyone's eaten it up. I don't think it deserved best picture or best director, but then again I don't think the most deserving people were even nominated. So out of it's competetion I guess it deserved it.

8. Gran Torino - "Get off my lawn!"
I loved Clint Eastwood's snarl and demeanor this entire film. Going into this I expected a typical Clint Eastood movie along with him trying to fit every type of racial slur he could think of. And I wasn't wrong, but I didn't hate it either despite how odd it is seeing a near 80 year old Eastwood playing a badass for the umpteenth time. The acting outside of Clint was nothing to write home about and at times laughable but it didn't take away from how much I enjoyed this.

7. Forgetting Sarah Marshall
Judd Apatow's company once again proved why he's on top of the comedy world in what was my favorite comedy of the year by far. Starring Jason Segel, Mila Kunis and Russell Brand has a great mix of subtle and in your face humor that has still proved hilarious after several viewings. Mila Kunis just looked absolutely stunning in this, I mean in That 70's show she looked good, but she was smokin in this movie. And perhaps my favorite song of the year was Dracula's Lament

6. Rachel Getting Married
This movie or Milk probably produced the best ensemble cast of the year and Anne Hathaway deserved the Best Actress award for her portrayal as Kym the recovering drug addict who's coming home for her sister's weeding. Had Kate Winslet not been nominated about 31 times prior to this years Oscars I'd have given Hathaway a fair shot at winning this thing. As someone who's only been on the outside looking in at weddings there always seems to be plenty of turmoil surrounding the wedding and this portrayed it perfectly. And although there was a lot of conflict throughout the film and was overall very depressing family was able to overcome all the problems. And although the pre-wedding party went on a little to long along with the reception I still thought it was very well done. MY 4-5-6 films are all fairly interchangeable.

5. Wall-E

This is Pixar's cinematic masterpiece and deserved a best picture nod and is some of there best work to date. I imagine this movie was a lot more for adults then kids, if I saw this as an 8 year old I would probably dislike it or be bored the majority of the movie with the lack of dialogue but it appears that the majority of the adult audience was blown away as Pixar scores another hit. Only a studio with the pedigree and critical acclaim as Pixar has the balls to do a movie like this where 1/3 of the movie is done with no dialogue at all. I was a little beaten over the head with the message the last half of the movie but I'm able to overlook that.

4. Frost/Nixon
"I'm saying that when the President does it, that means it's not illegal!"
Frank Langella was incredible in this movie in this compelling drama between Michael Sheen's David Frost and Frank Langella's Tricky Dick Nixon. Nixon was just so fascinating in this movie as a socially awkward and at times downright depressed individual while at other times being drunk and incredibly hilarious. I couldn't stop laughing when Nixon asked Frost if he had fornicated the night before. In the end Ron Howard leaves Nixon looking as a guy who had just been completely demoralized and defeated as he was trying to re-build his image. You leave the theatre feeling sorry for Nixon and I did because I just became enamored with Langella's character throughout the movie. If not for Mickey Rourke he would be my choice for Best actor, I also thought Sam Rockwell could have possibly picked up a supporting actor nod, but I digress. I don't really understand why this wasn't pushed harder at the box office because it was very well done.

3. In Bruges
"If I grew up on a farm, and was retarded, Bruges might impress me but I didn't, so it doesn't."

The most overlooked and underrated film from 2008. This film is much more then the comedy it's trailer makes it out to be and is a nice blend of comedy, drama, action and vioence. And lots and lots of cussing. And although the main character Ray (played by Collin Farrell) craps on the city Bruges the entire time, the film does a great job capturing the beauty of the city. Ralph Fiennes is hilarious as the boss hitman who's after Ray after a botched hit gone horribly wrong when Ray killed a kid claiming if he would have killed a kid he would have pulled the trigger on himself on the spot. I can't recommend this movie enough. It's bold brash, un-PC and doesn't hold back and Screenwriter/Director Martin McDonagh was deserving of best original screenplay in my opinion over Milk. But I suppose the movie was generally overlooked because of its early release date and it not being the typical Hollywood award film.

2. The Wrestler
"I'm an old broken down piece of meat and I deserve to be all alone, I just don't want you to hate me."
This movie and In Bruges were neck and neck but Mickey Rourke's performance was so iconic that in the end it just edged out In Bruges. Everything about this was terrific, from the wrestling scenes, the cinematography and direction of the film to the song 'The Wrestler' by Bruce Springsteen I just adored this movie. Mickey Rourke plays Randy 'The Ram' Robinson a broken down wrestler who's stuck in the past where he's a big star in the 80's and crashed and burned in the 90's. You can just see how stuck in the past he is when he's talking with Marissa Tomei and they're both so nostalgic on how great the 80's hairbands were (crazy, I know) and whenever he invites a kid living in the trailer parks to come play a videogame he was in on the original Nintendo until the kid suggests they go play Call of Duty 3. I thought the wrestling scenes were very well choreographed and Rourke looked pretty legit when in the ring. The movie carries a depressing tone much of the film (which for whatever reason I've always loved) as 'The Ram' keeps making mistake after mistake until he's left with nothing and all comes crashing down at the end. This is a must see for anybody and Darren Aronofsky was absolutely robbed of the best picture and best director nomination. (and probably should have won one of those.)

1. Dark Knight

As I mentioned earlier no film going into this year had more hype going into it, from the 1st time we saw pictures of Heath Ledger's joker to where we saw the 1st 6 minutes of the movie in December 2007. Hell at the midnight screening there were about 10 people dressed up as the joker, people were so amped for this movie. And after multiple viewings it has still held up great, even for a 2 and a half hour movie there's rarely a dull moment. And I don't buy the argument Heath Ledger is only being iconicized like this because he died, he had the best role out of anybody all year and will go down as one of the most remembered and revered characters in movie history. The fact that the role may have killed him makes it just a little more chilling. Christopher Nolan is proving to be one of the best directors in Hollywood today as he did a great job with the action, pacing, sound and everything else that went into making this. Just because it's a comic book film doesn't mean it's not deserving of nominations outside of the technical awards (sound, sound editing etc...) It was the best film of the year and will most likely be the film everyone looks back to when reviewing 2008. (whether people will view this as a positive remains to be seen.) I'll be shocked if the 3rd installment of Nolan's Batman is even close to this one.

And before I go, this week was Conan Obrien's last week on the air until he takes over for Jay Leno in June. These last couple weeks of watching him has been fantastic watching all his clips of past events has been a joy. I trust that Conan won't change but I hope that everything around him doesn't either because that's part of what makes him the best Late show on TV. Here's my favorite clip from his show
conan o'brien play baseball

And if I didn't mention a film you liked, either I didn't see it or didn't care to write about it. Until next time...

Preparing for NBA 2nd half.

2009-02-16T00:23:00.000-08:00

Well the NBA's 1st night back in the 2nd half was a decent one. The finale to the Hornets/Thunder game was thrilling as Kevin Durant had 47 points including a game tying turn around 3 with 10 seconds left. And then Chris Paul took control and spun into the lane and hit a little floater with 2 seconds left. Hornets win by 100-98.

Greetings people it's been awhile since I've actually written something, it's just taken a long time to get over the Cardinals Superbowl loss. All sarcasm aside we're heading into the stretch drive of the best part of the sports year. March Madness is just around the corner along with pitchers and catchers and opening day after the NCAA tourney and after baseball season starts we have the NBA playoffs and the NFL draft. Always a great time to look forward to, just takes a while to get to, especially since the allure of 'pitchers and catchers' wears off after about 5 minutes.

1st and foremost, when you are done reading this go straight to this link about Shane Battier, Darryl Morey and the Houston Rockets. It's written by famed author of Moneyball, Michael Lewis. It takes awhile to read but by god it is so worth it: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/15/magazine/15Battier-t.html?_r=1&pagewanted=all

The NBA just came off one of the most rigged All star breaks I've ever seen, didn't bother me to terribly but was annoying none the less. The dunk contest was set up before they even started to go down between Dwight Howard and Nate Robinson. I didn't want Rudy Fernandez in the dunk contest but he had the best dunk in the 1st round but got shafted by the judges (and I think part of it is because he's a foreigner and not your classic high flyer. I.E not black) But the showmanship between Nate and Dwight did make for an entertaining final round. But I just sat there in awe when I saw Dwight dunked the ball on that 12 ft. rim so effortlessly. And then after thinking Nate Robinson was all tapped out, he jumps over 6'10 Dwight Howard, his final round dunks did deserve to win.

But the best moment of the night was LeBron preliminary putting his name into next year's dunk contest in Dallas. If he actually goes through with this I'm going (and you know he'll win it regardless if he deserves it) if not he'll get killed from a PR standpoint, but he'll have the drones at Nike thinking up over the next year stuff that has never been seen before. Oh and the NBA almost lost me as a fan when they let Kevin Rudolf sing "Let it Rock" live, that's one of those songs that I'd normally hate but for whatever reason isn't that bad but holy hell he can not sing live nor should he ever be able to EVER AGAIN!

Kobe didn't deserve the All star MVP and it was Shaq's game and he owned it. Kobe like the 1st 3 titles just road his coat tails and had it not been for the Shaq/Kobe storyline he wouldn't have gotten any consideration. 27 points on 23 shots, are you kidding? Chris Paul was much more worthy then him. But this All Star game exemplifies why people love Shaq, Dwight Howard may be young and charismatic but he's no Shaq. Something about Shaq's charisma and joking nature and I guess how we've never seen a guy of his size (Oliver Miller not withstanding) just makes you love the guy like a big teddy bear. Plus I had no idea he had moves like that when he came out with the Jabbawockeez. Watch for yourself:

The reason the media loves Shaq is also why he's gotten a pass for being this immature guy the majority of his career, from stuff like 'Tell me how my ass tastes' to off color comments about Kobe in 2004 or mocking other players (Vlade Divac/Sacrament Queens or Erica Dampier) But seeing how this past weekend is going to be one of my last All Star games makes me think how much I'm going to miss that guy. There will never be another Shaq, prime Shaq is a top 5 player all time in my opinion.

I think I finally figured out which sport I like out of the 3 major sports I enjoy most out of all. People always ask me which sport I enjoy the most and it still is extremely close but it's always so hard to choose (might have to ask me in a certain season, this question should change) I think I enjoy basketball the most. I enjoy watching top NBA teams go at it more then anything and then the NCAA tourney puts it over the top. I think my favorite sport team is the Texas Rangers 1A to the Mavericks 1B with the Cowboys a close 2nd. The Rangers may be my favorite team but in terms of watching a normal baseball game that'd probably be a distant 3rd to the NFL/NCAAF being 2nd.

But I'm excited for this 2nd half of the year. Oklahoma City Thunder almost improved there team tremendously getting Tyson Chandler until he failed his physical and is going back to New Orleans. It's a shame that the Hornets are going through money problems (I believe that's the main motivation behind this near deal) because I think that's one of the main reasons why the Phoenix Suns won't win a title because the Suns owner was selling off draft picks left and right and not resigning certain players. I wouldn't be surprised if the Hornets are in Seattle in a couple years, that is if Seattle puts up the dough for a new arena. Here's an article about how the Hornets owner is barely able to scrape by: http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=aw-nbamoney021809&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

But onto the 2nd half, I think that the LA Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers will be meeting in the NBA finals. The only other teams who have a shot are the Boston Celtics and San Antonio Spurs. Now this is always one of the main criticisms of the NBA there's always plenty of top notch teams, but at the end of the day, you know only a select few teams have a chance to win. But I think LeBron finally has above average teammates, I mean aside from Mo Williams and JJ Hickson LeBron's teammates are all the same but they've gotten better offensively and that's why I think he's finally going to get over the hump. Maybe they won't be overtaking the Lakers since they lost fairly easily both games but this is the Cavs best they've had.

On the local side of things for the Mavericks, they've been playing better as of late, but the injury to Jason Terry certainly set them back but they're only a game or 2 back from the 4 seed. But given the competitive nature of the Western Conference they could be out of the playoffs with a couple losses. They need to start playing better against the top teams, it's nice knowing they can compete with top teams but they need to pull out a couple of these games on the road, they got both Houston and San Antonio on the road in the next week and it will be huge if they can at least split those games. And then in March they play 12 games in the 1st 20 games which will test this team.

I don't think they're going to make a move at the deadline tomorrow but never doubt Mark Cuban. As for a possible Vince Carter trade talk, if I'm Dallas I don't do the deal unless I'm getting back the 1st round pick I gave up last year because VC has 14 million over the next 4 years including this season. He would probably be the best 2nd option Dirk's ever had in his career but is it worth giving up Josh Howard? Tough to say, if you go through with the trade you're changing up your strategy where you try and grab a big free agent in 2010, because Dirk, Howard and in all likeliness Erick Dampier are all free agents (and let's not forget about Kidd's expiring deal this year) So in conclusion I see this team as a probably 1st round exit again in the playoffs, we don't really match up well with any of the top teams although a Dallas/San Antonio matchup would be intriguing. But that's about the only top team we would match up well against (maybe a young Blazers team)

So as I mentioned earlier, I'm predicting a Laker/Cavs finals with a possible chance of the Celtics or Spurs replacing either of those teams and if I had to choose a possible dark horse give me the Utah Jazz.

Since the Oscars are coming up this Sunday I shall have my top 10 films of the year up soon, until then sayonara.

Superbowl Sunday!!!

2009-02-01T01:05:00.000-08:00

Well Superbowl Sunday is one of the days I look forward to in the calendar year. It sucks that I'll be pining for the NFL season to start by the time the draft comes by in late April but it's always an excuse to party, get drunk and hope for a good game...and if not pray like hell the commercials are at least passable.

Just reviewing some of my predictions, well they weren't good. I only got 5 of the 12 playoff teams correct. I failed to forsee the failings and shortcomings of the Jaguars, Cowboys and Packers nor did I think the Bills would wilt like a flower in a Buffalo winter. I also assumed the Seahawks would at one point be healthy but that didn't happen, especially at QB and WR, oh well at least they'll probably get Crabtree which is a plus for them. And nobody would have guessed Brady goes down for the year 8 minutes into the season. Had they actually made the playoffs over the Dolphins they would have probably been the 1st or 2nd most dangerous teams in the playoffs, they were clicking on all cylinders.

My picks for award winners left something to be desired, I picked the aforementioned Brady for MVP and DeMarcus Ware for DPOY. In my opinion he deserved it and had a case for MVP in what I considered to be a less then stellar offensive year which led to Peyton Manning picking up his MVP trophy (that and Adrian Peterson's fumble-itis) And my picks for rookie of the year consisted of a running back on a winless team (though he did improve as the year went on) and a linebacker who was done for the year 5 weeks in. And Dick Jauron looked like he would have been in the running for Coach of the year until the Bills lied down like a (insert profane reference here)

I'd say it was a largely forgettable season, nothing that was just absolutely spectacular that happened. There was a giant inflation in sacks for the top pass rushers. I'm actually a little worn out by this season, especially being a Cowboys fan. The national media hates us, the local media craps on us, the fans can't stand either the players or the coaches and ever since Romo's thumb injury it has been a bitch fest 24/7 on Dallas radio and on the national circuit. Just really tiresome hearing the same crap spewed over and over and finding ways to make this team worse then it already is. I'd almost wish the media would treat us like a normal team rather then devoting a minimum of 25% to this team despite them not even playing a down for over the past month. It just gets old and I get beaten down by it.

But I'll still miss it, in the dog days of summer when the Rangers are playing game 90 in July right as training camp's beginning. That's what makes football so great, is the anticipation and the angst you build up while waiting for the matchup. It's almost as good (and in some cases is) better then the game itself, just sitting around dreaming up all these different scenarios for how the game can maybe play out in your head and trying to convince yourself your team is capable of winning. I also think that's why it's so popular is how so much is on the line in every game and how you don't play 80 games a year and it's easier to follow for most as compared to baseball and basketball. All you need to do is devote 16 days (mainly weekends or weeknights) out of the year for your team.

But now let's get to favorite Superbowl eateries:
Buffalo wings or buffalo tenders. Almost a must at any party you're going to and of course it has to be accompanied by ranch, I hate everything associated with bleu cheese. I mention buffalo tenders because I am a fan of the boneless buffalo wings.

Chips and dip. Doesn't matter what kind of dip, everyone likes some kind of dip, whether it's chips and salsa, chips and queso or a 7 layered dip or this delicious ranch dip that my mother showed me how to make (and I swear by it) Also guacamole for those who can't handle the salsa. Oh yea and if you don't like chips and opt for the healthier alternative (lameass) I suppose there's carrots or celery, but seriously get out of my sight.

Food in bowls? I don't know if you're the type of person who serves tons of snacks but normally if that's the case somebody may pull out like a little bowl of M&M's. Also stuff you may find is Chex Mix, Cheeze-it's. Also people tend to like pretzels or peanuts. Meh...

Also if you host a party it better feature beer and lots of it, if I even detect the scent of a wine bottle I'm leaving.

Onto some of my favorite Superbowl Commercials

This is an extended version of the Terry Tate commercial, but this is probably my favorite commercial of all time. And what's great is there's about 6 of these on youtube.

This was my favorite commercial of last year, you can't go wrong with gecko's dancing to Thriller (greatest music video of all time? Hell yea!)

I could give a crap about Mountain Dew but I love Bohemian Rhapsody and thought they did a great job with the song and what they had to work with.

And finally because I'm a bit biased towards wrestling (especially the WWF Attitude days) I'll show this one, and mainly because I can't quite find a beer commercial I like. And because I'm not gay enough to show you that Mean Joe Greene Coke commercial.

And before we get to the actual game I'd like to introduce to you the greatest snack maybe ever. Behold the Stadium of food!

This bad boy consists of 3 ways to dip your chip. The field is made in a pan and has guacamole and sour cream hash marks, while the endzones are salsa and cheese. The 'players' are sausages with cheese stacked on them and the goal posts are Slim Jim's. The exterior of the stadium is 58 twinkies and what's holding the chips from crashing the field are toothpicks and a wall of bacon. And I assume you can add your own snacks of choice, they went with Cheetos, Doritos, tortilla chips and Chex Mix.

And your total calorie intake comes out to be...
TOTAL CALORIES: 24,375
TOTAL GRAMS OF FAT: 1,285
TOTAL COST: $86.47

To see how it was made go here: http://www.holytaco.com/ultimate-super-bowl-snack-stadium

Simply stunning.

Onto the game.

Arizona Cardinals @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-6.5)

There are tons of scenarios that can play out in this game and might I add 1st that I think Arizona will be affected most by this 2 week layoff. The NFL needs to get rid of this stupid crap, we don't need 2 weeks to build up hype for what will already be the most watched event of the year. Stories become stale and people become cranky waiting for this freaking thing to start. Plus it hurts all the momentum the Cardinals have built up over the past month on this magical playoff ride. Just something that is bugging me because I see no need to wait 2 weeks for it.

But the Cardinals to win have to keep doing what they have done all playoffs, pounce on there opponent early and hope to sit on that lead for the remainder of the game. We already know they're going to be passing the ball just about all game long, but the small possibility of them running the ball gets thrown out the window if they get down by 2 scores early. The Cardinals counter acted the agressive blitzing schemes of Jim Johnson and the Philadelphia Eagles by doing quick routes and getting rid of the ball within 2 seconds after the snap and it worked perfectly until Philadelphia adjusted but luckily were able to hang on after Kurt Warner and there running game put together a game winning drive in the NFC Title game. The offensive line must protect Warner and Kurt needs to be on the lookout for Troy Polamalu, I imagine he'll be playing very close to the line of scrimmage and can picture him reading Warner's eyes and picking off a pass. But this all easier said then done, particularly when you're going up against possibly the greatest defensive coordinator in the past 30 years in Dick Lebeau. One thing that plays in the Cardinals favor is the big play factor of Larry Fitzgerald and even Steve Breaston. Where Baltimore was able to generate a majority of there offense was on pass interference calls on the Steelers, and with the best jumpball WR in the league on your side you know they will test the Steelers secondary early and often.

I think the Cardinals have done a magnificent job this post season limiting some of the top rushers the league has to offer. They shutdown Michael Turner, limited DeAngelo Williams as they forced the Panthers to pass most of the game and held Brian Westbrook in check as he was hobbled. The passing game may be where I start to worry, I mean the Steelers O-line is mediocre at best but Ben Roethlisberger is so great at creating time for himself, sure he takes some sacks every now and then but he's very elusive for a man that size.

So I'll take the Cardinals and assuming they win they'll clear the over too (set at 46.5)

This is my argument for the Cardinals because I really want to believe they can take this game, and because I don't want Pittsburgh to win (or want to believe they will win) there NFL record 6th Superbowl. But just about every other thing I've wanted to go right in this NFL season has gone wrong so why change it now.

But I can't wait for tomorrow to be over...as a new season awaits. I leave you with one final Superbowl commercial that I always found to be quite charming.

until next time...

Ranger things...

2009-01-25T00:01:00.000-08:00

Red is back in the Rangers life...

This past Friday the Texas Rangers unveiled there new alternate uniform that will be worn on Saturday home games and special occasions, such as this upcoming Opening Day in April.

The club also unveiled new home uniforms, the main difference is on the front of every jersey it says Texas rather then Rangers on the home uniforms. The club has also gotten rid of the sleeveless jerseys (which I was a fan of.) Here's a look of some of the players and manager Ron Washington modeling the new uni's.

They're all pretty snappy, I would like for the home jersey to say Rangers on them because it is devoid of that on every one of the jerseys but aside from that they're good. I think the new red alternate looks good, personally I'm glad they didn't make the full transition back to red, blue in my opinion looks better, but seeing how I am very superstitious and red is the only color we have ever made the playoffs in it's nice to see it back. It's even better that they'll be wearing black cleats because I always thought the all red uniform (including red cleats) years ago looked awkward.

Now the real problem I have is the batting helmets, these things are attrocities on the level of the Chicago White Sox thinking shorts were a good idea for a baseball team and camoflauge jerseys for the San Diego Padres. Just look at these things

It's hard to form a coherent sentence thinking about who the dumbass is who thought these were a good idea. Blue and red are solid colors apart but when they form to go ontop of a hat? What the hell is that! This has to be a gag right? I pray these go the way of the Dallas Mavericks failed silver jersey and never see the light of day again after the backlash for these things will be, HUH!?! I would sleep better knowing the person who made these helmets never receive another job again, at least until he releases a full apology for this heinous creation.

But enough about that let's talk about this. Michael Young moving to 3rd base. This is the right move, I think most people who follow the Rangers farm team and have a decent idea about Elvis Andrus figured this move was going to come sooner then later. I honestly thought it wasn't going to come to 2010 but the Rangers of the last year or 2 have pushed and challenged there top talent (Chris Davis jump to the Majors, Tommy Hunter in the big leagues and Neftali Feliz going from Low A to AA skipping High A altogether. These would just be a few examples) This move makes Youngs gold glove which he won in November look all the more worthless (which it was stupid for him to win) But it may have actually made Young think he was a top tier defender. I don't want to make this a bash Young thread because if he can get to balls he's normally pretty solid with his strong arm but I have seen so many times balls slowly go past the pitcher up the middle or see him half flailing for a ball to his right as it slow dribbles past him into left field causing 2 runs to score. If Andrus is as great defensively as we all here then we are in for a treat. Sure he will make mistakes early on but he will also get to balls Young could only dream of and him and Ian Kinsler could help to form one of the best double play combos this franchise has ever seen.

And some people think it's a dumb move to make the "savvy vet" change positions especially when Andrus had 32 errors last season. Just as a point of reference minor league fields are no where near top condition when it comes to playing surfaces (though I would expect Frisco to have some of the better playing conditions in the minor leagues) Adam Everett and Edgar Renteria are 2 of the top defenders at the SS position, in 2000 and 20001 Everett had 49 errors in 137 games. Renteria was in AA in 1995 he had 33 errors and in his rookie year 1996 only had 11 errors in 106 games. I expect if Andrus is up the entire year he will have around 20 to maybe even 25 errors but you know what, it's ok because I know he'll be able to get to more balls and save some runs so I can deal with the growing pains (along with the problems at the plate he will likely experience) And not to mention all throughout spring training he has one of the greatest defensive short stops of all time to turn to for advice in Omar Vizquel. This kid supposedly has the makeup to be a phenomenal player and a great leader and I for one am excited to see him for years to come, with Young to his right and Kinsler to his left.

This team has to sign Ben Sheets and there is really no way around it, only reason they shouldn't is if reports say he won't pitch until the All Star break. The Rangers rarely if ever have had the opportunity to land a #1 starter especially at this bargain basement price. Tom Hicks, you bitch about not spending money because the fans won't go out to support the team well if you want a chance to rejuvenate some interest around the metroplex and keep the damn media from bashing you and stop talking about the latest Cowboys screw up sign him. The AL West is as weak as it's been in a long time, the Angels have questions on offense and there best offensive players are another year older on the wrong side of 30. The Oakland A's are going for it this year with a rotation almost as bad as the Rangers with there only proven starter is a converted reliever who threw a career high 154 innings last year. And unless they get great production out of Jason Giambi, Jack Cust and Matt Holliday that offense is as big a mess as there lackluster defense. I mean you have to realize that one of Jack Cust or Giambi will have to play the field everyday, that's funny. Billy Beane sees that they have shot to possibly steal the division this year and you should do the same and it starts with signing Ben Sheets to a cheap AFFORDABLE contract.

You already have arguably the best offense in the league, a league average pitching staff (and a little luck) can win this division. You sign Ben Sheets to a 2 year 20 million dollar contract and you have a solidified front of the rotation guy who's been as healthy as your top 2 pitchers the past 2 years. Another positive is you bump down Kevin Millwood and Vicente Padilla a rotation spot AND they're going to be pitching in a contract years. Technically they both have another year on there contract but Millwood's contract becomes non guaranteed if he fails to pitch 180 IP's (which he hasn't the past 2 years) and Padilla has a team option following this season. Add a guy like Matt Harrison and possibly healthy (crosses fingers) Brandon McCarthy who has apparently put on 25 pounds this off season and you have a decent pitching staff. And if Sheets goes unsigned you're back to being branded as a band of mediocrity with little to no fan interest. I'll of course be interested because I'll always support the team and understand if we don't sign him there is still help on the way but not that many people know that nor have the patience to watch Texas build a winner. The time to act is now and then go for it all in 2010 and 2011.

As documented by baseball blogger over at the Dallas Morning News Mike Hindman he talks about Ben Sheets injury history over the past 4 seasons: http://rangersblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2009/01/the-ben-sheets-medical-file.html

He states in 2004 he missed 3 months due to dizziness caused by an inner ear infection. In 2005 it appears to be documented by many that he had shoulder problems (a big red flag) but it was actually a muscle tear called the latissimus dorsi, which causes you to move the shoulder. In 2006 he was very limited only pitching 106 innings removing scar tissue from his latissimus dorsi. The article goes on to state he has had 0 structure damage done to his shoulder or rotator cuff and no ligament damage to his elbow. Really just a bunch of muscle pulls and odd injuries, seemingly a bit unlucky.

I see no reason why we can't give him 2 (and I'll even give a mutual option for 3 if that's what it takes) and a bunch of incentive type stuff to get him signed. Really I think the club is doing all there homework they can so they don't sign a guy who pitches 12 times a year and has to be shut down, but even if he only pitches 12-20 times a year he'll still be our best pitcher in those appearances, so why not take the risk. And of course everybody knows if we fail to sign him he will prove the doubters wrong and win a CY Young somewhere, that's what happens when you're a Rangers fan.

Gil Lebreton has this to say about the potential Sheets signing: http://www.star-telegram.com/284/story/1163343.html

Finally I want to get to Eric Hurley and the Rangers minor league system. 4 days ago it came out that Eric Hurley was going to miss the entire 2009 season to repair a torn rotator cuff. In 2007 he was ranked by Baseball America as there #68 prospect and the Rangers system was ranked 28th in the major leagues. The year before that the system was pretty barren with only Thomas Diamond, Edinson Volquez and John Danks to hang there hat on. Had Hurley gone down and missed all season in one of those years those who follow the minor leagues would have been crushed because of the amount of pressure and stock that has gone into him. And while it still is a huge blow and I will miss watching him progress this year it's not as big a deal as it once was. Because for the 1st time they have depth.

Baseball America and Keith Law from ESPN have come out ranking the Rangers as both having the top systems in baseball.

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/9091200/Farm-system-gets-top-ranking--

In this article Editor in chief for Baseball America states, "Other teams had great pitching or great hitting, but the Rangers had the best of both"

And here is a quote from ESPN's Keith Law, "The Rangers have far and away the best farm system in the game right now, with impact prospects, lots of depth (particularly in very young pitching) and plenty of prospects close enough to the majors to help the big league club in 2009 and 2010."

To read a little more of what Keith has to say click this link: http://insider.espn.go.com/mlb/insider/columns/story?columnist=law_keith&id=3848691&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fmlb%2finsider%2fcolumns%2fstory%3fcolumnist%3dlaw_keith%26id%3d3848691

In Keith's rankings of the top 100 prospects he lists 5 Rangers in the top 40 and 9 in his top 100 (not even including a guy like Eric Hurley) The amount of depth this system has is simply amazing, from guys who are ready or close to being ready (Elvis Andrus, Max Ramirez or Derek Holland) for the big leagues to guys who are just starting (like 17 year old Martin Perez or Engel Beltre) and the depth this team has will cause to lose players to the Rule V draft and will force Jon Daniels to possibly make a mistake or 2. But he's put together some fantastic drafts and some of the best scouting money can buy in Latin America and the last couple years in the Pacific Rim around Korea or Japan. This is why you should get excited about the future of this team, because it truly is the most exciting time in the franchises history.

Until next week where I will write about the Superbowl, and hopefully be able to give my top 10 movies of the year, though i still need a to view a couple more. cya...

Picks for Championship games

2009-01-17T21:03:00.000-08:00

Greetings chums, long time no typing, been a little slow to get back to hitting keys as evidenced by missing the last 2 weeks.

Quite a bit's happened, in the DFW area and nationally. Coaching vacancies are being filled while some are losing their job (like defensive coordinator Brian Stewart for the Cowboys, hooray!) But since it's 6:15 in the morning, I'm just going to get to the picks for who will represent the respective conferences in the NFL.

Philadelphia Eagles (-3.5) @ Arizona Cardinals
The Eagles are fantastic both against the run and pass and I expect d-coordinator Jim Johnson to blitz the hell out of Cardinals QB Kurt Warner and force him to get rid of the ball quick and not allow Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin to run downfield. The Eagles secondary matches up against the Cardinals receiving core as well as any team in the league and that will help Philadelphia succeed in winning this game on the road. And if Brian Westbrook is a factor in the ground game against a Cardinals defense that's been fantastic against the run then this game could get out of hand allowing the Eagles to be more balanced rather then Donovan McNabb being forced to make plays the entire game. I don't expect this game to be as lopsided as there 1st meeting but expect it to just start gradually start slipping away from the Cardinals, much like last week in the Giants game.

The Over/under is 47, I can see this going either way, which probably means you should take the under. If the Cardinals are to win this game I'd expect it to be over, if Philly wins which I presume they will I'm going to guess the under.

Baltimore Ravens @ Shittsburgh Steelers (-6) you see what I did there?
I probably hate the Eagles more then the Steelers but this team just bugs the hell out of me and seeing them hoist there would be NFL record 6th Superbowl trophy makes me sick to my stomach. I'm tired of this stupid mentality there fans have and those stupid towels (aren't they just so innovative!) I hate that there's a bias to get Steelers in the Hall of Fame while there's a bias to keep some Cowboys players out of them. I hated seeing James Harrison win Defensive player of the year over DeMarcus Ware (not saying he didn't deserve it, the homer in me felt Ware was the more qualified candidate) and I hate watching Polamalu and his hair flop around week after week. And we aren't even getting to Big Ben and that fat head of his, I often wonder how there is a helmet big enough for Chase Daniel's older brother.

Oh in case you were able to get through all that rambling there is a game to be talked about. I've told this to about everyone I know, the Ravens outplayed the Steelers both times they played each other only to lose it at the end. One of those games being where the refs came to the conclusion of overturning a call despite there not being sufficient evidence in the waning seconds of the game (though Ben probably sneaks it in the very next play)But I'll still never understand how the refs make that call. If Terrell Suggs plays, which I think he will and is as effective as he's been throughout this entire season, I think the Ravens can win, or at least cover the spread, which is what this is supposed to be about anyways. Rookie QB Joe Flacco has to be more composed (that and his receivers need to get opened) I realize he's gone against some top notch defenses the past couple weeks but he needs to be completing more then 50% of his passes to give the Ravens a chance. So it sounds like a lot has to happen for the Ravens to win and while that may be so they've lost there 1st 2 games vs. the Steelers by a combined 7 points so don't just automatically count them out, especially a defense led by the mammoth up front Haloti Ngata future HoF'er Ray Lewis and the best safety this decade in Ed Reed.

Ravens, and the over/under is 34, you'd expect temperature to be a little bit of a factor, which leads me to taking the under.

until next time...

Fiesta Bowl Preview

2009-01-04T00:51:00.000-08:00

Well Monday Night features the 2009 Fiesta bowl with a great matchup:

The Ohio Stat University starring Beannie Wells, CB Malcolm Jenkins and the most hyped freshman at Ohio State since Greg Oden went there his 2nd time (get it, he's old) Terrelle Pryor

Vs.

The Pride of Texas led by Colt McCoy, white receiver extraordinaire Jordan Shipley and stud DE Brian Orakpo

The Texas Longhorns

Well the thing I've been doing during this entire bowl preview has been getting people who are fans (or current students) that I know from various websites of one of the teams in the bowl. The person who wrote this bowl preview is a current student at THE Ohio State University and migrant from Turkey. His name is Arda Durgun. Just a quick snippet about this Turkish fellow, he likes Scrabble and his favorite song is Istanbul not Constantinople by They Might be Giants. Here's a picture of what he may (or may not) look like.

Here's his writeup:

Disrespect. That's what Texas team will be fueled with when they step on the field against ohio state team on monday after getting snubbed out of national championship game. As much as Mack Brown tries to claim that team put the BCS mess behind them, we all know that it will be back of every player's mind. Conventional wisdom says, last thing Ohio State would want is to face this pissed off Texas team that was seconds away from playing for the title game. I mean, you wouldnt expect Buckeye team that has been blown out of the field last two BCS bowl games to hang with mighty Longhorns, right?

Well not so fast, one thing bowl season has taught us year in and year out is that matchups matter as much as, if not more than, the overall performance teams put up during regular season, and this matchup is rather godsend for Buckeyes compared to playing Florida and LSU. And the reason is...defense.

Looking back at Ohio State's infamous BCS bowl loses, Florida and LSU finished the season 8th and 3rd in the nation respectively. Texas is ranked...50th in the nation while Ohio State is ranked 8th. Unlike the LSU and Florida this foe is all offense.

Looking back at their schedule, it is glaring that Texas offense is yet to play defense as potent as Ohio State's. In fact the best defense they've faced all season, the Oklahoma Sooners who are off to the title game, is ranked 63rd in the nation while the worst defense Ohio State has faced is Northwestern, which is ranked 51st in the nation despite allowing 45 points to Ohio State and 37 points to Michigan St. Obviously, rankings don't tell the whole story and terrific offenses big 12 teams have faced throughout the season have much to do with low defensive ratings, but I dont think there is any question Texas offense will have its hands full more so than any other game they played this season due to the stout Ohio State defense.

That doesnt mean Ohio State defense will have an easy time against Texas' prolific offense led by Heisman candidate Colt McCoy. It is likely that Ohio State secondary will be able to slow down Texas recievers Shipley and Cosby but Laurinitis and co. still needs to spy on McCoy entire game to make sure he doesnt get running lanes to torch Ohio State defense. McCoy does use his mobility to his advantage which is why Ohio State needs to lock him in the pocket, put pressure on him, so even if they don't get to him he wont be able to buy more time.

On the flip side, Texas' defense will heavily rely on Brian Orakpo. If Orakpo is completely healthy he he has the ability to torch Ohio State o-line which has been mediocre at best. Orakpo will require double teaming from Ohio State especially with Bryant Browning and Alex Boone, which will make other Texas linebackers' job lot more easier. Luckily for Ohio State, Terrelle Pryor has the ability to move away and roll out to other side and remaining Texas linebackers will have to put in extra effort to contain Beanie Wells. Key for Ohio State offense is taking care of the ball. Pryor did have his share of issues in that department but with the increasing maturity and poise he showed week to week, there is no reason to think he can't lead his team down the field without making fatal mistakes.

“Defense wins championships”. Maybe the most used cliché in sports but it is the one that is most often correct. A great defense will stop a great offense. Not all the time, mind you, but enough to give your own offense a chance and Ohio State has more than enough weapons to cash in the given chance. Therefore, i am homerifically predicting Tressel will get his 4th fiesta bowl title 24-21 win over Texas.

There you have it folks straight from the Turk's mouth. The man knows as much about football as he does the more sissified futbol.

until next time...

picks for sunday

2009-01-03T23:42:00.000-08:00

Well Wildcard weekend got off to a great start with all both home teams going into Saturday as the underdogs but both were able to pull out the victories. The Cardinals won despite playing as the leagues doormats the last month of the season won because of a couple of big plays by WR's and a defensive lapse late in the game by the Falcons on a 3rd and 16 that will have people calling for longtime Falcon Keith Brooking's head. I personally thought the Falcons really outplayed them in the 1st half controlling the clock and moving the ball down the field after struggling the 1st half of the 1st period. But they got killed by giving up a 40+ yard TD to Larry Fitzgerald on a flea flicker. Then Anquan Boldin breaking a tackle on a normal stop route, luckily for the Cardinals there were no other Falcons who were able to get to him as he ran 71 yards for a TD. The Falcons recaptured the momentum as the half came to a close but collapsed coming out of the 1st half getting 1 first down the 1st 20 minutes of the 2nd half. And as previously mentioned when they needed a stop couldn't get it.

Then the night capper was Colts vs. Chargers, this was one of the best games I'd seen in a long time. Don't know why but I just got really into the game though I have no affiliation to either team. But I felt the Chargers had outplayed the Colts the majority of the game thus wanted them to be rewarded (felt the same way when the Giants played the Packers in the NFC title game last year) Darren Sproles made himself a lot of money tonight though, with over 300 all purpose yards this man is electric, dynamic and any other word you can think of. He is so damn fast, he's a perfect 3rd down back because of his ability to catch out of the backfield and being able to at times make something out of nothing with his shiftiness going vertical or side to side. Not to mention his return ability. And lets not forget about Mike Scifres who punted 6 balls and all 6 landed inside the 20 (5 were inside the 10!) and had a whopping 52.7 yards per punt!

I normally don't gush about punters but it was truly the best punting performance that I have ever seen. But I just read about (didn't see the game) about Florida States kicker/punter Graham Gano who had 4 punts inside the 7 in the bowl game against Wisconsin including 3 inside the 3 yard line. He also had 6 XP's.

Back to this game, both teams had chances to intercept some bad throws or just made some mistakes at innoportune times (Darren Sproles fumbling into the endzone losing the ball. Clint Session stupidly grabbing Sproles's facemask when he was already wrapped up and was about to go down) I felt the Chargers squandered away more chances though, but in OT I would've hated to be the ref in the situation where he called defensive holding on 3rd and 8 against the Colts, I would have agreed with that call either way, you just hate to see a game decided on something like that.

But all in all it was superb football game and effort by both teams, only thing I would have loved to see was Tony Dungy uncharacteristically barking at or chewing out a camera man pointing a camera in his face, just would have really cracked me up. But in my opinion the Chargers were better then the record losing some real heart breakers and the Colts were a little worse then there record being very fortunate in some of there games. But I'm not the saying the better team today won, but the team that played better today did win. My advice to the Colts, should've called tails.

Now onto Sunday's games:

Baltimore Ravens (-3.5) @ Miami Dolphins
This 3.5 spread looks like a real ballbuster (and knowing the shady stuff that goes on in Vegas somebody will get there balls busted up for picking the wrong side of that half a point. This type of game won't feature much offense in all likelihood and will probably come down to a field goal and leave a bunch of gamblers sweating. I'm getting tired of the Dolphins eeking out victories week in and week out, Baltimore's already beaten them @ the Dolphins place and I like them this week. Over/under is set at 38 I like the over, Miami will be playing catch up and passing the ball a lot tomorrow (much like the 1st matchup) That O/U prediction is probably dumb though

Philadelphia Eagles (-3) @ Minnesota Vikings
Tough matchup, obviously the Eagles have more talent in most positions but can they put the pieces together or will they continue to show flashes of greatness coupled with games of mediocrity and out and out crappiness? That's the great mystery, but I like the Eagles because they have a stout run defense to slow Adrian Peterson and they favor passing the ball and running outside the tackle box so that will help avoid the 2 Williams clogging up the middle for Minnesota. And McNabb is agile enough to evade the best of pass rushers, the Eagles last week did a very nice job last week on Demarcus Ware double and triple teaming him (though he seemed to blitz less often last week) Maybe they will employ the same strategy this week against Jared Allen. The Eagles are a more dangerous team and as long as they can control the clock they should win this game somewhat easily, so it's hard not to take them. Eagles, O/U is set at 41 take the over, especially if the Eagles dominate.

Bowl Preview continued...

2008-12-31T18:53:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-30T15:23:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-27T10:22:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-12-27T10:04:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-12-19T15:41:00.001-08:00

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

2008-12-17T22:32:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-14T01:52:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-12-12T15:21:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-11T11:57:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-12-07T22:36:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-07T08:54:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-12-04T12:32:00.000-08:00

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?)

Power Rankings and Week 12 picks...

2008-11-27T22:03:00.000-08:00

Before we start this week's column I must ask this question:

Can you find a gayer picture then this? I mean obviously if you look for one you can but can you find a gayer picture then this where guys are not kissing and aren't naked? It might just be the gayest photo ad of all time. Not that there's anything wrong with that (sorry, normally I don't miss the opportunity for a Seinfeld reference) Now you're wondering where I found it, it was one of the ad's on a website I was reading, and I was thinking, really Tom, are you really that desperate to do work for a cologne company? Just was bothering me because it's just so laughable.

Also Thursday's Cowboys game was nice to see for the 1st 20 minutes of the game. The offense looked like it did all last year and the 1st couple weeks of this season. Romo was getting plenty of time and was accurate. Then for about the next 15 minutes of game time the line looked like garbage like in the 2nd half of last year's playoff game vs. the Giants. I don't know why they couldnt keep the Seahawks guys out of Romo's face. DeMarcus Ware made a statement and hopefully put himself in contention for the defensive player of the year. 'Fat' Albert Haynesworth would probably be my pick but Ware would be no lower then 3rd. The only thing I really didn't like from this past week was the pass defense was horrid, I'm not sure if Dallas played a lot of zone and soft coverage or if Mike Jenkins being out made that big a difference but it was a problem, especially with us travelling to Pittsburgh next Sunday. Also I'm more and more impressed every week at how this defense plays when the team gets inside the red zone, they really pick it up a notch. My favorite part of the game was watching Julius Jones running into the back of a linemen's ass, just classic J. Jones.

But I figured this week I'd try and take a crack at doing some power rankings, all the big time affiliates have them and well I'm pretty big time myself, I may have 10 readers soon, so let's get to it. I'd also like to point out these are my opinions and some of it may not be based on records:

1. New York Giants - Pretty obvious pick, if I wasn't so anxious to knock this team down a peg or 2 I'd say it would take a lot to remove this team from a fairly secure spot.

2. Tennessee Titans - Really here because of there record. I believe they lost last week because they fell down early against a good team. The week before they fell down to a bad Jacksonville team and came back to win. Against a good team like the Jets that's not going to happen because they're a run heavy team and when they're forced into obvious passing situations Kerry Collins will be ineffective, it's not his style and it's not the Titans style. They're built to play with a lead or close 1 possession games and rely on there defense to make plays, that's why they lost to the Jets. These type of teams are always susceptible to upsets in the playoffs.

3. New England Patriots - This might look crazy considering the Jets just beat the Patriots but if they play the Jets again there is no doubt in my mind they will prevail, they win the coin toss agains the Jets in there last meeting and they're most likely the victors and sitting atop the division.

4. New York Jets - They're in prime position to win the division title with Miami and Buffalo at home and Seattle and San Francisco on the road. I feel that Brett Favre may screw up once the playoffs get started though.

5. Dallas Cowboys - May be overreacting but they're starting to get it together (and as it happens injuries occur) But I really think they can go into there next game and upset Pittsburgh especially if they get after Big Ben and his porous offensive line.

6. Indianapolis Colts - The reason they aren't ahead of the Cowboys is they're having to many close calls, I want to see a blowout or 2 everyonce in a while. 6 of there wins have been by a total of 23 points. They could be higher come playoff time and going into the final week vs. Tennessee they should have 8 wins in a row (they play Cleveland, Detroit, Cincinatti and Jacksonville)

7. Pittsburgh Steelers - There schedule is a hell of a lot harder then the Ravens, if they lose against New England Sunday, I don't think they're making the playoffs. It's a shame either them or the Ravens can't take the AFC West's playoff spot.

8. Baltimore Ravens - After this week's gimme vs. Cincinatti they play Washington, Pittsburgh then @ Dallas and close out against Jacksonville. They go 2-1 (or beat Pittsburgh) in that 3 game stretch they should clinch a playoff spot.

9. Tampa Bay Bucs - I've seen other publications rank them higher, and frankly I had them lower when I started this. I just don't see this team going far in the playoffs, they're like a poorer version of the Titans, that suck on the road. I just am not that impressed by them, in fact aside from the Saints (and the Falcons at home) I don't think either team has a chance to go places, though some places really like the Panthers.

10. Atlanta Falcons - They get this spot because they proved to have recovered nicely from the loss against the Broncos the previous week. Guess they are a legit team who will be in it til the end, but now they're gonna have to prove it on the road (@ Nawlins, Minnesota and San Diego) Ultimately with that schedule they're going to miss the playoffs.

11. Carolina Panthers - They beat the Falcons last week and they're a lot higher, they only have 2 home games the rest of the year. They play on the road against Nawlins, the Giants and Green Bay all tough places and Tampa whupped them earlier this year at there place they need to rebound this week or they'll be on the outside.

12. Washington Redskins - Big game vs. the Giants this week. There 1st matchup was embarrassing, the 'Skins looked like they had no idea what to do offensively. Defensively after the 1st couple drives Eli looked awful against them. If they force them to pass this week they can pull off the upset and not fall back a game in the division and go up a game on Dallas in division games.

13. New Orleans Saints - Say what you want about Kurt Warner but Drew Brees has been for awhile my MVP, it is scary what he could with Warner's weapons maybe over 75% completion percentage. I can't give up on this team as long as he's healthy and I would hate to meet up with them in the playoffs. The more I look at there schedule it actually looks somewhat favorable for them, as long as they dont screw up.

14. Philadelphia Eagles - Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in.

15. Arizona Cardinals - They can't play past East of the Mississippi, luckily the rest of the division can't play in the entire continental US

16. Minnesota Vikings - I think they may be the best team in the division but there schedule (I may be overplaying the schedule factor, a tad) is the hardest, it's there own fault there record isn't better though.

17. Chicago Bears - Week 16 showdown vs. the Pack could decide the division

18. Green Bay Packers - I still think letting Aaron Rodgers start was the right move even if he was part of the reason they lost last week vs. the Saints, but if it makes them feel better, Drew Brees does that to about every team he plays.

19. Denver Broncos - Had they not been absolutely embarrassed last week at home they could be about 6 spots higher, but jesus there defense is abysmal, what's even more sad is they'll get a home playoff game. That's a rule that needs to be fixed this off season, a team does not deserve a playoff game vs. the wildcard team if there record is worse (and this year they may be 3 games worse then there opponent)

20. Miami Dolphins - No surprise they lost last week, excuse me while I pat myself on the back. They should get to 9 wins though playing StL this week and playing San Fran and KC at home. If they can win at Buffalo that would give them 10 wins, which would make them the 2nd worst 10 win team Parcells has built this decade.

21. Houston Texans - They'll be better heading into next year, I'm liking what I see for them now and they should get a win Monday on there 1st ever MNF game.

22. Buffalo Bills - They've fallen on tough times, but they take care of San Fran this week and they have a season deciding showdown against the Jets on the road. Playoffs are still a long shot though. They're probably ranked a little low.

23. San Diego Chargers - Again maybe to low, it's sad that there division is still attainable, I find it hard to believe Norv will be back, but if he's gone he'll latch onto another team and make there offense great and maybe sucker an owner 1 more time into being a head coach.

24. Cleveland Browns - So much for Brady Quinn getting experience. Just promise me America gets to keep seeing his sculpted chest each week as he runs the hurdles and drinking those energy drinks.

25. Oakland Raiders - I didnt get to see any of this game I just want to know if Jamarcus looked as good as his stats may have indicated, I was shocked that they beat the Broncos like that.

26. Jacksonville Jaguars - I hate when I make a pick thinking some team will be great and they totally crap on your heart, shame on you Jacksonville.

27. San Francisco 49ers - I hope Mike Singeltary will always have a job.

28. Kansas City Chiefs - Well Tyler Thigpen looks legit there defense though is as bad as anyone's in the league.

29. Seattle Seahawks

That's all I really have to say about the Seahawks. Goo goo g'joob g'goo goo g'joob

30. Cincinatti Bengals - If there owners weren't so cheap Marvin Lewis and Chad Johnson would have been gone a long time ago, instead this off season they'll lose there best WR TJ Houshmanzadeh.

31. St. Louis Rams - They have 1 more win but ever since barely losing to New England they've fallen on terrible times, nothing else to say.

32. Alabama Crimson Tide - # 1 until beaten, and nobody thinks they can beat Florida either. They're the Tennessee Titans of football, great defense and run game with average at best QB's. Only real difference is Julio Jones.

33. OU Sooners - It's almost a bad thing that they beat T. Tech by 40+ because now everyone is bitching about UT not getting into the Big XII title game. Everyone now just brushes Tech by like they've wanted to the entire time. I think OU's schedule is better and are more impressive then UT (and I realize they lost to them, I've heard that enough this week) None of the 3 teams deserve to bitch about the final verdict since they all lost though.

34. Florida Gators - I hate Florida and hope Tebow sucks in the SEC title game (for Bama's sake)

35. Texas Longhorns - Already adressed there situation, I also doubt they'll have a rematch against OU in the title game. Here's what would have to happen: Florida loses to FSU, then beats Alabama. Then I expect USC to jump ahead of the horns, so you'd have to have them lose. Also OU would have to win Bedlam and there conference title. And even if all that happened Utah might jump Texas if voters really dont want an interconference title game.

36. USC Trojans - I think there might be overhate for SC, I dislike them but nobody I know wants them in the title hunt but want them to face a legit BCS opponent. I think everyone is annoyed that they'd have the nerve to lose with all that talent on there team especially since the Pac 10 isn't that great (though I think overall the NCAA isn't what it's been in the past) Oh well if Oregon State wins Saturday then we'll probably see a Texas vs. USC game somewhere.

37. Utah Utes - I really wish the WAC and the MWC and maybe even C-USA would combine there best team to form a BCS conference, they deserve it this year as much as the ACC or Big East. Especially the top 3 in the MWC this year.

38. Acapella music - some guy on a forum I frequent was talking about it the other day and I can't get enough of this style of singing, here's a couple video's

39. Detroit Lions - they can't even sit atop the BCS rankings! How the mighty have fallen, oh wait they were never mighty.

9897987988787. Jonas Brothers - I never heard them before and prior to Thursday the only time I noticed them was when they were talking to Leno and they were on mute. Even then I waas hoping Ron Howard (who was sitting next to them) would take a fork out of his pocket and stab one in the eyeballs. They're the latest product of the Disney hype machine and my god they're horrible, are kids really this stupid. Obviously but my god there's a new low reached by disney every year. If I have a kid where do I have to go or who do I give my soul to that will allow me to exploit my kid and damaging his future to allow myself to get rich all while brainwashing kids with this filth?

9897987988788. Carson Daly - an all time douchebag. It takes a lot to go lower then him, about the only guy I can definitely say is lower then him is Skip Bayless.

Until next week, where I'll be typing to a few (loyal?) readers

Picks for Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T00:51:00.001-08:00

Greetings everyone on this early bird edition of Thanksgiving.

Here are my picks for this craptastic threesome of games

Tennessee Titans (-11) @ Detroit Lions
Had the Titans not lost last week I may have chosen the Lions to cover but they're annoyed because they not only have to be away from there families but also have to play on Thanksgiving against the Lions. That's like the boss calling you in on Christmas Eve to help sort out some financing, Titans. Maybe we'll even get a Vince Young sighting to make this holiday complete.

Seattle Seahawks @ Dallas Cowboys (-12)
I missed most of last week's Cowboys game for work and it's the 1st Cowboys game with actual meaning that I've missed in years. I'm annoyed that I didn't watch it on TIVO before I went home for Thanksgiving. From what I've gathered it didn't sound like the team was overly impressive except for T.O and the pass rush for a little while. But Seattle is in shambles, the only chance I'd give them is Matt Hasslebeck is playing QB instead of Seneca Wallace, but that still won't be enough as Tony Romo will improve to 3-0 on Thanksgiving games.

Arizona Cardinals @ Philadelphia Eagles (-3)
I've bought into the Eagles all year and you think that after all this turmoil this team has gone through the past 5 days I'm going to turn my back on them now with Andy Reid and Donovan McNabb's job security questioned? Hell no, the Eagles find a way to win this game and somehow keep there slim playoff hopes alive. I can't believe I believe in them so much since I'm such a big Cowboys fan, I'll just say this; I hate there fans but McNabb and Brian Westbrook have been to good to my fantasy teams to just forget about all the good things they've done for me.

And the over/under for the battle of the birds is set at 47, take the over.

Random Stuff in the World of Sports...

2008-11-22T05:15:00.000-08:00

President-elect Obama seems dead set on getting a playoff in college football and ridding this country of the evils of the BCS. He's gone as far as proposing an 8 team playoff system, even gone to several national publications saying as much. Now college football not having a playoff system is one of the things holding it back from being declared as the nation's best sport, and even though bowls are fun and all it really needs a playoff system. I could even accept a plus 1 system, anything.

But I was thinking, what if Obama made it his biggest priority to get a playoff system, exerted his biggest resources and made this the main objective of the country to get a playoff system. Say he succeeded in an 8 team playoff system, but say the rest of the country was in shambles and the same as it was in 2012 as it was in 2008, do you think he could get re-elected? I think most people would give him another chance, if he can convince the greedy commissioners of the BCS conferences then I think he can convince people he could fix things (hell he just won an election saying as much) Just something I was pondering, it'd be hilarious if that happened.

1 more thing about the BCS, Fox pulled out of the bidding for televising BCS games from 2011-2014 and ESPN won the rights to televise the Orange, Sugar and Fiesta bowls, the 1st time they'll be televised on cable. Fox's coverage sucks so that's no big loss what struck me odd about this though was on ESPN's ticker at the bottom of the screen on the TV, it said something along the lines of, "Reports are surfacing that ESPN is close to buying the rights of the BCS, ESPN has no comment" Someone explain who the dumbass is who feels the need to deem this newsworthy and who exactly do they approach with to get the 'No comment' quote on? Just a complete waste of time reading and just makes your company look stupid (a feat that they've mastered over the years)

Donovan McNabb is not that smart, and frankly not many people throughout the league are either. Whodathunkit. Let's move on.

The New York Knicks today traded Zach Randolph to the LA Clippers and Jamal Crawford to the Golden State Warriors. The pieces they got back are still serviceable players (Cuttino Mobley and Al Harrington among others) but they all lead to one direction, creating cap space for the summer of 2010, they join about 14 other NBA teams doing the same thing, along with USC 3 SEC teams and 8 teams in Europe all prying for one prize, Lebron James. Of course he's been rumored to headed to the Big Apple (whether it be NYC or New Jersey maybe about to be Brooklyn Nets) since he signed this extension. Other free agents will be Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh along with plenty of other big names. I'm going to guess that at least 2 of those 3 players stay in there current location, Lebron is the only one I can see leaving because he's money hungry (and isn't afraid to admit it).

It's a real shame, he's the best player in the league yet his teammates have hardly improved his entire career, in New Jersey things would be better with the likes of Devin Harris, Brooke Lopez and Yi Jianlin but the Knicks don't have much to offer. But it's pathetic that newly acquired Mo Williams might be his best shooter/#2 option he's had his entire career. But they have cap room coming next season so maybe they'll get him some real help, like they were supposed to the last time they had cap room.

And finally Roger Goodell reinstated Adam 'Pac Man' Jones and he will rejoin the team December 7th when they play the Pittsburgh Steelers. Many people disagree with Goodell on this move, and just looking back on how he's gone fine happy and a quick trigger for suspensions I'm a little shocked that we're seeing Jones back this season, much less at all with Goodell running a dictatorship. But anyways at the risk of sounding like a homer (as if I've never done that before) I'm fine with Goodell giving Jones another chance, personally I thought it was a BS suspension to begin with, he got into a scuffle with his bodyguard and no police report was filed (though in all honesty I'm almost positive Jerry Jones paid off that cop) but legally there were no repurcussions, just a reputation suspension, sort of like how Rasheed Wallace or Ron Artest will get a reputation technical, and yes I know the Jones thing is a bigger deal. But I'm all for giving athletes 2nd chances, and then 3rd and 8th chances.

I think I would feel this way if he was on any team, I never really hold vendettas for players business in there personal life, if I form a hatred for a player it's simply for there actions in the game. Leonard Little maybe being the one exception because there is no reason he shouldn't be in jail.

Onto the games:

San Francisco 49ers @ Dallas Cowboys (-10)I love Mike Singeltary, there is nothing to hate about this guy, from his pants party to his press conference about his teams embarrassment to how he reacts with his players. Watching Inside the NFL this week, they had audio of him interacting with a coach pre game and he said Vernon Davis has responded the most to his criticism and he loves the guy. Then later in the game the camera picks him up chewing out a player for fumbling the ball and the guy starts walking away from him til he proclaims, "Coach I gotta get on the field" then he lets him go do his business. The man is hilarious. As for the game it could be a long day in Dallas for San Francisco if there running game stalls. I saw the Monday Night game vs. Arizona and I thought Shaun Hill looked awful, throws a bad ball and if pressured he will make plenty of dumb mistakes. I want Dallas to blitz relentlessly, do that and Hill throws at least 2 picks. Dallas will be rolling with there throwback uniforms (I love those uni's so much) and I think they'll be flying high from last weeks season saving victory in Washington. I'll pick take my 'Boys.

Philadelphia Eagles @ Baltimore Ravens (-1.5)Philadelphia may have cost themselves the season by failing to beat the lowly Bengals and having the 1st tie in 6 seasons, for all that talent (at least in my eyes) they have been constantly underachieving ever since there Superbowl appearance. The Ravens just got abused by the league's best running attack and are looking to rebound, since it's a home game I'll take them. Over/under 39 take the over.

New York Jets @ Tennessee Titans (-5.5)
Big time game, this is a statement game for the Titans, people think the Jets are for real and even though they're undefeated nobody is completely sure how good the Titans are, I also think if there running game struggles it will be interesting to see how they play with no running game. I realize that Kerry Collins played great passing the ball vs. the Bears but the Jets secondary is a little better and the Bears were putting no pressure on Collins who just sat back there all day, containing Kris Jenkins is going to be hard for the Titans, as will containing the front runner for DPOY Albert Haynesworth. I'll take the Titans at home.

Buffalo Bills (-3) @ Kansas City Chiefs
3 week ago if this game's played the Chiefs are double digit underdogs, my how things can change so quickly, Tyler Thigpen appears to be a legit QB for the Chiefs and the Bills lost 3 straight divisional games while proving to the city of Cleveland that nobody chokes harder then Buffalo. Buffalo should have won that game in the end, they had a 47 yard field goal opportunity with a minute left and instead of trying to improve field position they run it 3 times, stupid playing not to lose mentality cost them the game and maybe Dick Jauron's job (though he got a contract extension prior to all this losing). A 47 yarder is never a chip shot, especially in a cold environment with gusting winds like there were in Buffalo, in a dome I can partially understand but any cold climate is generally regarded as one of the harder places to kick field goals (Buffalo, Green Bay, Pittsburgh) Anyways I didn't like what I saw from Trent Edwards last week though Marshawn Lynch was beastly, I like the Chiefs to pull off the upset since there play has been better as of late.

Minnesota Vikings @ Jacksonville Jaguars (-2.5)
The Jaguars certainly collapsed last week, they crapped there pants in the 2nd half vs. the Titans, this is not the same team as last year, they finally broke some ground in the playoffs and this was supposed to be there break out season. Well that dream's over and they're likely done for the year. The Vikings are in a 3 way tie for there division at 5-5 but techincally are 3rd because a 2-2 divisional record compared to Chicago and Green Bay's 3-1 record. They'll be hungry and I'll take the Vikings, expect big things from Adrian Peterson.

New England Patriots @ Miami Dolphins (-1)
Rarely do the same tricks work on Bill Belichick, I expect the Dolphins running attack and the wildcat formation to be slowed or stopped. I don't expect Matt Cassell to throw for 400 yards again but I expect him to make the plays to win (god that sounds so cliche) I just can't come around to the Dolphins, they're a good team but have caught some breaks, they may be a pick next year to be a break out team but in the end will be middle of the road next year just like this year. Still a great improvement from last year obviously.

Chicago Bears (-7.5) @ St. Louis Rams
When you see the Rams embarrass themselves like they did last week it makes you embarrassed that your team not just lost to them but lost handily. Da Bears.

Houston Texans @ Cleveland Browns (-3)
The Texans have been good enough to win all but 2 games, but as of now they're 3-7, they can still play spoiler ruining Cleveland's playoff hopes which are hanging by a thread. I like the Texans in this game.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-8) @ Detroit Lions
Tampa is bad on the road and the Lions slowly but surely are getting closer to a win (maybe) I'll pick the Lions to cover.

Oakland Raiders @ Denver Broncos (-9)
Denver has a bad defense but a high powered offense, playing a crappy team with an anemic offense usually means big things for No-D teams like Denver. Denver and this game will likely be over in the 1st half, especially with Denver building off those 2 huge wins against Cleveland and Atlanta (1st team this year to beat Atlanta at home) I'll take the over at 43 too.

Washington Redskins (-3.5) @ Seattle Seahawks
As Matt Hasselbeck gets healthier the 'Hawks could play spoiler to the victor, and I'd love for that to happen to an ailing Redskins team, but I don't see it, 'Skins.

NY Giants (-3) @ Arizona Cardinals
We'll see how Kurt Warner fares when he'll be dealing with the likes of Justin Tuck in his face all day among others and how the 'Zona front 7 deals with the 3 headed attack of Brandon Jacobs/Derrick Ward/Ahmad Bradshaw. If the O-line can protect Warner this game will be much closer than I anticipate but an immobile QB spells trouble against this attacking Giants D. I'll take the Giants.

Carolina Panthers (-1) @ Atlanta Falcons
People love seeing that 8-2 record next to the Panthers and just automatically think potential Superbowl contender but they're like night and day when playing at home and on the road, and they've already played 6 of there 8 home games. They have a tough schedule the rest of the way all against play off contenders and/or divisional foes, they need this win to prove to people (like me) that they are for real. Atlanta needs to rebound from last weeks close loss to the Broncos, we'll find out what kind of club they are this week and if they're ready for this step towards the playoffs. I think it's a year or 2 to early for the Falcons and last weeks loss is a pre cursor for the rest of the season. Panthers. (Obligatory statement that I make every week then seemingly pick against it, NFC South is dominant at home but sucks on the road)

Indianapolis Colts @ San Diego Chargers (-2.5)
The Colts have finally seem to have righted there ship while the Chargers lost a close one last week (though the refs screwed gamblers everywhere) Even though the Chargers defense sucks, this is the one team over the past 4 seasons that Peyton Manning has struggled against (mainly attacking 3-4 defenses but the Chargers moreso) throwing for 6 INT's in 1 game last year. And the Colts still should have won that game, the Chargers lose this game there season's done. Peyton would love to stick that dagger into there hearts. Colts

Monday Night

Green Bay Packers @ Nawlins Saints (-2.5)
Now this will be another great game for Monday Night Football, hopefully the Saints will be healthy and Reggie Bush can play. The Packers are getting better every week and Aaron Rodgers is looking great (no real surprise) They're riding high after the beatdown delivered to there rival Bears. But the Saints are hungry and tired of losing these tight games and will win in what should be a shootout. And the over/under is 51.5 you know I got the over.

3 games I'd bet on:
Denver at home vs. the Raiders
Giants on the road vs. the Cardinals
Redskins on the road vs. the Seahawks
over/under of the week, Monday night take the over Packers/Saints

Until next week, where I'll be writing for myself.

Thursday's night game

2008-11-20T14:17:00.000-08:00

Well I had a terrible week picking games last week after finally having a good week. The Pittsburgh Steelers last week should have covered the spread but the refs once again this season screwed up and now they've got Vegas in a tizzy.

So of course to appease Vegas (or at least the gamblers, the bookies were probably pleased by last week's result) The refs will throw the Steelers a bone this week and allow them to cover the spread.

Cincinatti Bengals @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-11)
Pathetic display by the Bengals/Eagles last week, but the Bengals at least have the excuse to suck, I don't know what McNabb's problem was, everyone for the 3rd straight season is jumping on the Will Donovan McNabb be back this next season? And with the Eagles struggling again and looking like the playoffs may be out of reach I'd say this time is a real possibility, same goes for Andy Reid's job security, it's hanging by a thread. But back to this game, the Steelers SHOULD cover but that doesn't mean they will, but every crappy team they've played this year they've handled quite easily so I'll take them.

Over/under is 34.5
Last time these 2 teams met it was 38-10, if the Steelers are to win by more then 11, I suspect the final score will reflect the results of there 1st meeting, rarely can I bring myself to bet the under, so over.

NFL Picks Week 11...

2008-11-16T01:56:00.000-08:00

Well last week was a nice little rebound from my recent struggles, and here to make your picks for week 11 is...drumroll...

me!

I also apologize to all my faithful readers out there for being lazy the past several weeks for not actually writing a legit article (Oh wait that's me and like 2 other people) But as Tom Petty says, "Baby even the losers, get lazy some time" or something like that...

onto week 11:

Detroit Lions @ Carolina Panthers (-14)
The Panthers have looked less then stellar recently but they're an NFC South team playing at home against the worst team in the NFL (though I think I'd be inclined to call the Raiders the worst at this point. It's a shame the Lions don't play them) Panthers.

Denver Broncos @ Atlanta Falcons (-6.5)
I know the Falcons are good and great at home but it will always be surprising to see a team with a rookie QB as a 6.5 point favorite. Once again I'll take them because the NFC South dominates at home, and I'll take the over that is set at 51 too.

Houston Texans @ Indianapolis Colts (-8)
Tough call, the Texans are coming off 2 tough losses while the Colts finally look to have turned a corner. The last time these 2 teams played the Texans should have won, and fairly handily at that, but Sage Rosenfels felt like the ball was a hot potato and was fumbling the ball all over the place. I'll say the Colts roll at home.

Oakland Raiders @ Miami Dolphins (-10)
The Dolphins failed to cover last week but the Seahawks are a lot more legit then the Raiders, Dolphins.

Minnesota Vikings @ Tampa Buccaneers (-4)
Tampa would be one of if not the best bet to contain Adrian Peterson, especially at home, Bucs.

New Orleans Saints (-5.5) @ KC Chiefs
I know the Saints have struggled as of late but the Chiefs suck (despite that they nearly pulled off the upset last week) But I applaud Herm Edwards for having the guts to go for 2 last week, you're a 15 point dog on the road to a vastly superior opponent and you're a 1-7 team. You aren't going anywhere anyways might as well try and light a fire on your young, up and coming team. And Tyler Thigpen has been putting up some numbers the past couple weeks. That said I just have a hard time betting against Drew Brees.

Chicago Bears @ Green Bay Packers (-3.5)
Logical choice says take the home team, especially since the Titans last week passed all over the Bears secondary. As long as the Packers O-line can block for Aaron Rodgers, the Pack should roll. Packers

Philadelphia Eagles (-9.5) @ Cincinatti Bengals
Easiest game of the week, don't think twice, just bet EAGLES!

Baltimore Ravens @ NY Giants (-7)
I've been waiting for Eli to have an awful game and aside from the Browns game on Monday night, it hasn't really happened. But this is the type of game where the Ravens led by Ray Lewis and Haloti Ngata can stop the running game and force the Giants to become more one dimensionsal. I fully trust Joe Flacco even though he will be going up against the best pass rush in the league, take away the 2 weeks in a row vs. Tenn and Indy where he threw for 5 Int's and he's got an TD/INT ratio of 7 to 2. And the last 4 weeks he has thrown for 6 TD's and 0 INT's. I'll take the upset and continue to be spiteful towards the Giants.

St. Louis Rams @ San Francisco 49ers (-6.5)
I love what Mike Singeltary is doing with this team, eventually when he learns from mistakes he'll be able to turn some of these close heartbreaking losses to victories. I still want to know what the hell that last sequence of plays was for the 49ers, passing is what got there team down inside the 5 yard line (particularly the fantastic play of WR Jason Hill) and I can't believe they didn't at least try to pass the ball 1 time. Once QB Shaun Hill took forever to get his team to the line of scrimmage to spike the ball, right after the spike they should have passed the ball. And if not there, the next play, it's just ridiculous to not have passed the ball 1 time in that situation. Oh and about this game, I feel the Rams have as good a chance as the 49ers, so I'll take them.

Arizona Cardinals (-3) @ Seattle Seahawks
A road victory vs. a divisional opponent would be huge for the Cardinals, especially in a short week against the 'Hawks. I'll take the Cardinals

San Diego Chargers @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-5)
The Chargers suck on the road, flat out terrible, I can't believe the spread isn't bigger, but of course every other week the Steelers upset the people trying to believe in that team, but the Chargers ineptitude is to much for themselves to overcome. Steelers, Big Ben better get some protection this game.

Tennessee Titans (-3) @ Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jags last chance to try and revive this season, finally coming off a convincing win, but it's not saying much as it was against the Lions. I won't be shocked seeing them win but the smart money is on the Titans, so I'll pick them.

Dallas Cowboys (-1.5) @ Washington Redskins
This is a very interesting game, Dallas is getting 3 valuable starters back at least (Tony Romo, Terrence Newmand and G Kyle Kosier) and it's looking more and more likely that Clinton Portis won't play. So obviously the cards should be in the Cowboys favor. But it hasn't been that easy for them all year, but as long as we are able to stop Santanna Moss and not playing 8 yards off every WR every single freaking play we should be able to win. I'm especially interested in how the offense will come out the 1st several possessions, if they'll see how healthy Romo's pinky is or if they'll try and establish a running game, either way I think with Romo back into the thick of things it's important to hit T.O and Roy Williams early and often. I'll take the Cowboys, somewhat reluctlantly though we should go in and handle our business (hopefully somewhat handily) I'll take the over which is set at 43

Monday Night

Cleveland Browns @ Buffalo Bills (-5)
The 2 cities with the biggest reputation of choking, I almost feel like predicting this will be a tie so nobody will be happy. Both teams seemingly out of the playoff race, because the Browns can't win a game late and because the Bills just dropped 3 straight games in the division, they have an outside shot but in all likelihood will be losing all tiebreakers to there interedivision rivals. Brady Quinn looked good last week but the defense let him down and they blew a lead to a Jay Cutler led team that was using it's fullback as it's primary running back in the 2nd half because they lost all healthy running backs. That's plain pathetic knowing your opponent's going to pass and you still can't do anything about it. I'll take the Bills

3 games I'd bet on:
Philly on the road vs. Cincinatti
Saints on the road vs. the Chiefs
Panthers at home vs. the Lions

Over/under on the week:
Cowboys/Redskins set at 43, take the over.

NFL Week 10 picks...

2008-11-09T09:28:00.000-08:00

Already off to a crappy start losing the Thursday night game, let's get rolling

Buffalo @ New England (-3.5)
Buffalo's lost there last 2 weeks against divisional opponents this week will be no different.

Tennessee Titans (-3) @ Chicago Bears
These 2 teams are very similar, if Kyle Orton plays at QB that's the only advantage I would give to the Bears, every other position goes to the Titans, Titans roll and remain undefeated.

New Orleans @ Atlanta Falcons (-1)
Who would have thought the Falcons this season would be favored in a game vs. the Saints? Going by trends this season you're supposed to pick the NFC South team at home and against them on the road, but I like the Saints to much to stick with that trend. Let's just hope for a high scoring game with big production from Roddy White and Michael Turner.

Seattle Seahawks @ Miami Dolphins (-8)
It sucks knowing what we know now that the Cowboys let Tony Sparano get away, I still have a hard time picking the Dolphins as an 8 point favorite even if Seneca Wallace is starting, 'Hawks.

Green Bay Packers @ Minnesota Vikings (-2.5)
The Packers nearly pulled off the upset of the Titans last week, they're the better football team right now and the most logical pick.

St. Louis Rams @ New York J-E-T-S JETS JETS (-9.5)
I'm not sure if I have picked 2 Jets games right all year, everytime I believe in them they disappoint me, and lately if I've gone against them, they've surprised me. At home vs. the Rams they should handle there business, Jets.

Baltimore Ravens @ Houston Texans (-2)
The Texans have spent the past 3 games building up there confidence playing some bunnies, now it's a real test with Sage Rosenfels starting. I'll take the Ravens in a hard fought game.

Jacksonville Jaguars (-6.5) @ Detroit Lions
What a disappointment the Jaguars have been, this will be Detroit's best chance to win the rest of the season, I'll predict the Lions cover the spread. WAKE UP JAGUARS!

Carolina Panthers (-9.5) @ Oakland Raiders
My gosh the Raiders are a mess, nothing more to say, Panthers.

Indianpolis Colts @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-3.5)
It looks like Big Ben will play, the Steelers looked very good last week finally showing up against the NFC East, Byron Leftwich looked fantastic, I think part of the reason was the 'Skins didn't gameplan for him, nonetheless it was a dominant performance. They'll look to continue that against the Colts today, could be a make or break game for the Colts. And I expect big things from the Colts today.

KC Chiefs @ San Diego Chargers (-14.5)
Neither of these teams are good, it's hard to pick the Chargers with the way they're playing right now but they just had the bye week and playing pretty good at home. Tough game, Chargers

NY Giants @ Philadelphia Eagles (-3)
From a Cowboys perspective, it's best if the Eagles lose, from a fan's perspective I really hate the Giants though (admittedly though they kicked our ass last week) Both QB's will get beat up today, this game could be decided early if a team jumps onto a 2 score lead. This is an unpredictable game that I wouldn't bet on, I'll take the Giants, but I wouldn't mind seeing a 5 INT day by Eli.

Monday Night
San Francisco @ Arizona Cardinals (-9.5)
Last time Monday Night was in the desert Dennis Green exploded in his classic, "They are who we thought they were !" rant, this may happen this game but from the 49ers coach Mike Singeltary (I loved his post game rant following his 1st game as head coach 2 weeks ago) Cardinals BIG!

3 games I'd bet on:
Cardinals over the 49ers on Monday Night
Panthers on the road vs. DA RAIDAAS
Jets at home vs. the Rams

Over/under I'd take: the over in the Giants/Eagles game at 43

Thursday's pick

2008-11-06T11:54:00.000-08:00

Tonight's game features the hapless Broncos vs. the potential new golden boy of Cleveland, the cunning and dashing Brady Quinn.

Denver Broncos vs. Cleveland Browns (-3)
I'm going to guess the Browns come out fired up in the wake of the quarterback switch, the Browns have been getting better every week while Denver is regressing. Browns take this game.

And just to take a stab at the O/U it's set at 46, I'll take the over.

I'll try and crank out something tomorrow that I can read to myself later.

Picks for week 9

2008-11-02T06:09:00.001-08:00

Been a little to lazy to write anything this week so I'm just writing down my picks for this week. Next week I'll try and write a little NBA preview and maybe about the suckitude of Brad Johnson.

But how about Texas Tech last night, Michael Crabtree snatched that ball out of the air and ripped the heart and soul out of the Longhorn faithful, what a game. Probably the game of the year, especially how it ended. We'll see how impressed the voters were with the victory and whether or not Tech will jump both Alabama and Penn State for the #1 ranking. And my school Oklahoma State gets to go in there next week and play Tech, should make for another fantastic game and perhaps we will play the spoiler next week. I personally don't think Tech can run the table so the thing that I hate about seeing Texas lose is it likely sets up for the 3rd freakin straight year a Big 10 team lucking out with there weak schedule and going to the National Title game, because in all likelihood they aren't losing another game.

Last week wasn't to bad but wasn't much better then the week before
I was 6-7-1 last week and 1-1 on the over/under
And for my 3 games I'd bet on I was 1-1-1 and missed the over/under
So for the year I am 45-51-4 15-12-2 on the over/under
And games I'd bet on I am 4-5-1 and 1-2 vs. the over/under

Onto this weeks slew of games:

Baltimore Ravens @ Cleveland Browns (-2)
The Ravens slaughtered them in week 2 but this Browns team is looking rejuvenated coming off an impressive victory over the Jaguars on the road. This Ravens team looked equally impressive vs. the lowly Raiders last week, I'll go with the safer pick here and choose the Ravens, a win here for the Browns however gets them right back into the playoff race.

Tampa Bay Bucs (-9) @ Kansas City Chiefs
I got cute 2 weeks ago and thought maybe just maybe the Chiefs they could give the Titans a close hard fought game, and that failed miserably. They did almost upset the Jets last week in a surprsingly strong start by 3rd string QB Tyler Thigpen especially since his running game didn't help him at all. The running game will fail again this week vs. a stout Tampa defense and I forsee Thigpen throwing at least 2 picks. Bucs, and the over/under is looking mighty low at 36.5 even with 2 stagnant offenses.

New York J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS @ Buffalo Bills (-5)
Both teams coming off of lackluster games but at least the Jets were able to win, the Bills were dismantled on the road vs. the Dolphins. These division games are tough to choose but I picked Buffalo over the Jets at the start of the season and am sticking to it. Bills

Arizona Cardinals @ St. Louis Rams (-3)
Even with the Rams great play over the last 2 weeks I expect this to be a one sided affair, the receiving trio of Boldin/Fitzgerald/Breaston will prove to be to much. I'd say the only thing the Rams have in there favor is it's a West Coast team having to play the noon start time that seemingly plagues the majority of west coast teams (and with good reason, when your body is on west coast time it's hard to get up to play a game at 10 o'clock)

Detroit Lions @ Chicago Bears (-12.5)
Bears are coming off of there bye week after puting up 48 points against the Vikings, the Lions have lost there last 3 games but have covered the spread in 2 of there last 3 (and the one they didn't they failed to do by a single point) They were embarrassed in there own place last time they played the Bears I expect an inspired effort by the Lions, but will still lose, but I expect them to cover.

Houston Texans @ Minnesota Vikings (-4.5)
This is a big game for the Texans, they've won there last 3 games after an 0-4 start and left for dead after giving the game away vs. the Colts. The Vikings will look to redeem themselves after giving up 48 points to the Bears. They have the worst special teams in the league (even worse then the Cowboys, which is hard to do) and Jacoby Jones has returned a punt 2 of the last 3 weeks and won't be surprised if we see that happen again today. This game is a real toss up in my mind, I'll flip a coin...Texans won the toss, they've elected to win. The over/under is at 47, I'm taking the under.

Green Bay Packers @ Tennessee Titans (-4)
I really could see the Packers coming into Tennessee's house and stealing this game but I'll keep picking the Titans until I see something that I don't like. But the Packers have had 2 weeks to prepare for this game so look out.

Jacksonville Jaguars (-7.5) @ Cincinatti Bengals
Something is off with the Jaguars, maybe it's the injuries to the offensive line but the defense doesn't seem as good as last year, perhaps they aren't responding to Jack Del Rio like they used to, but it's hard to bet against them vs. the lowly Bengals, Jags.

Miami Dolphins @ Denver Broncos (-3.5)
2 top 10 offenses in terms of yards per game, this will be a high scoring affair especially since the Broncos do most of there damage at home, Broncos, and the over/under is 50.5 I'll take the over.

Philadelphia Eagles (-7) @ Seattle Seahawks
I'm not really all that surprised the 'Hawks kicked the 49ers ass last week, I've been waiting for it I just needed to see it, but Seneca Wallace is not going to replicate that performance vs. the blitz schemes of Jim Johnson, Eagles big and take the over which is set at 43.

Atlanta Falcons (-2.5) @ Oakland Raiders
The Raiders did upset the Jets in there last home game, but I doubt that happens again, the Burner Turner and Rowdy Roddy White keep the Falcons in contention, although the NFC South does suck on the road.

Dallas Cowboys @ New York Giants (-8.5)
It doesn't look like the weather will be a factor in the game today so that takes away one of the reasons I would have given Dallas for possibly pulling off the upset, the other one is that it is a division game. The key is for Dallas to stop the 3 headed monster of the Giants running game, they did a great job stopping the run last week vs. Tampa but they've been fairly inconsistent stopping it the whole season. But you have to force Eli make plays, he's been good this season but he's always prone to Eli mistakes our young corners just have to be ready to pounce on those opportunities and not let the ball slip through there hands (like the guy last night in the Texas/Texas Tech game) Also on 3rd downs they need to cover Steve Smith which is easier said then done, I expect alot of blitzing by the Cowboys today. As for the offense where that's where things get hairy, the Giants lead the league in sacks, to negate that fact I'd line up Brad Johnson in shotgun and run a bunch of quick routes, slants, stops and try and work the middle of the field. The offensive line needs to deliver one of there best performances today and need to know where Justin Tuck is at all times. I expect us to lose this game, we're decimated by injuries and it's still up in the air if Jason Witten will even play which makes it even harder, and if the Cowboys get down by 2 TD's early expect Brad Johnson to get benched. The bye week can't come soon enough, Giants to win Cowboys to cover.

New England Patriots @ Indianapolis Colts (-6)
The NFL's marquee matchup of the past few seasons is now just another game, but I expect the intensity to still be electric tonight, but seriously what the hell are the Colts favored by 6 for? They've proven nothing so far and I'm still waiting to see some consistency, also I'm confused as to why Tony Dungy called a run on 4th and 1 last week when you're playing the league's best run defense and have Peyton Manning as your QB. If Addai was healthy was healthy I could maybe buy it but this is Dominic Rhodes we're talking about, that play may have cost them the game, that and the Colts receivers letting the ball bounce off there hands. I'll take the Pats who are getting stronger with each passing week.

Monday Night
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Washington Redskins (-2)
Is anyone pumped up for Chris Berman interviewing Obama and McCain at halftime? Me neither, how stupid, not to mention Berman is just a big pile of suck. As for the game, I read this little nugget the other day:
Since 1936, the outcome of the last Redskins home game before Election Day has correctly predicted the winner of the presidential race. For 64 years and 17 presidential elctions, if the Redskins won the game, the incumbent party won the White House. If they lost, so did the incumbent party, this has held true in every year except 2004 when the Redskins lost and the Republicans still held the presidential office.
So this little golden nugget will be put to the test this Monday, normally I'd take this info and take the Steelers since it's becoming fairly obvious Obama will win but the Steelers have looked god awful against the NFC East and makes me wonder why the hell they were favorites before last week to represent the AFC, I just don't see it and haven't been overly impressed with them all season. The Redskins however have and I'll take them, the over/under is 36.5 I'll take the over.

3 games I'd bet on:
The Eagles on the road over the Seahawks, Cardinals @ the Rams house, and Broncos at home vs. the Dolphins

over/under of the week would be the Eagles/Seahawks game set at 43

man i really like to overrate the eagles dont I

until next week where i'll likely be writing for myself (hopefully it will at least get written a couple days before sunday)

Ranting and raving (mostly ranting)....

2008-10-24T19:25:00.000-07:00

Well this past week sucked and it's gotten me a little annoyed so without further ado...

There was an article this past week in the Washington Post saying that the Washington Nationals General Manager Jim Bowden was treated this past week for skin cancer. Now it's all fine and dandy now because it appears that the cancer was removed and Bowden will be fine so what's my beef with this? Jim Bowden found out he had this cancer in June, I'll retype that so you make sure you read that right JIM BOWDEN RECEIVED CANCER TREATMENT IN OCTOBER WHEN HE FOUND OUT HE HAD CANCER IN JUNE! How important can any job be that you put off cancer treatment for the rest of the season, sure the trade deadline was in July but you had limited trade commodities, hell even though you put off cancer treatment you still failed to sign your 1st round pick Pithcer Aaron Crow. He should've died out of principle to show people how dumb you can be and not get away with it.

Here's the brief article about it since you have to be a user to browse the more extensive version of the article: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/10/21/AR2008102102114.html

Lou Holtz may be the worst analyst on ESPN and that is really hard to do considering myself stabbing myself in the eye when hearing the likes of Steve Phillps, John Kruk, Emmitt Smith and Fernando Vina speak. He spits so much when he talks it puts Sylvester from Loony Tunes to shame, I'm convinced the man is senile and has fake teeth. I feel bad for Mark May and Rece Davis for having to put up with him and his dementia week after week. And recently it's come out he was a member of the Nazi party. Lou has a segment everyweek called pep talk in order to fire up the troops for some team the following week and he referenced Hitler in one of his speeches. Obviously that's a big no-no and I say that without even thinking about the politically correct world we live in, it's just something you don't do infront of a camera.

Read an article about it here: http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/college/2008/10/18/2008-10-18_lou_holtz_sorry_for_hitler_line.html

What annoyed me though was that there was no repercussion for Holtz aside from being forced to making an apology, now let's go a couple months back during the NBA playoffs when columnist for ESPN Jemele Hill also made a Hitler reference. Hill being a Detroit native and die hard Piston fan compared rooting to the Celtics was like saying Hitler was a victim. The comment somehow slipped past her editor and was online for some 2 hours before the comparison was removed, she got suspended after a gigantic uproar was thrown at her. I guess the good people at ESPN feel that Lou Holtz is an old man and you just can't fix these type of mistakes that he's made. You know how you probably had a grandparent who still calls black people "collard people" or is always going off on some sort of offensive or racist diatribe, maybe it's kind of like that.

But a young black female reporter makes a similar comment she's threatened with her job and suspended for a short time. Ah double standards don't you love 'em. Kind of like how we've hardly heard a peep from ESPN how Yankee's new golden child Joba Chamberlain recently receieved a DUI but if ESPN gets some audio about Terrell Owens saying Tony Romo's farts smell bad they'll have a 15 minute segment on how T.O. is trying to blow up the team with these outlandish remarks. What's even more startling is that Holtz was alive when Hitler's terror reigned which makes his comments even more misguided, I realize both were in the wrong but I don't see why 1 person gets punished while one gets away with it. Of course we'll never know why, we still don't know the full story for why Harold Reynolds was fired.

And despite this double standard ESPN still managed to top itself this week by failing to mention a peep of the Brett Favre fiasco on account not wanting to hurt wittle Bwetty's feewings. And if there was any mention of it from the world wide leader it was to defend the golden boy after receiving a barrage of criticism from the blogsphere for showing a bias. At this point whenever there is a Brett Favre story on ESPN I'd like for them to put up a viewers discression graphic containing graphic material for those who may want to look away.

Sunday Morning Jay Glazer reported that Brett Favre held an hour long conversation with Detroit Lions coaches and then team President Matt Millen. Other teams claimed to have heard about this and other rumors claim Favre has done this with several other teams just not to the exent of Detroit. Here's the article: http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/8694746/Sunday-Scoops:-Is-Favre-guilty-of-insider-trading

By Sunday Night Peter King of Sports Illustrated and former lover of Favre himself (in the brief separartion from John Madden) received a text from the golden child flatly denying any of this.

Now when looking at the final score for the Detroit-Green Bay game, the score reads 48-25, but the game was much closer then that. Green Bay went ahead 21-0 before Detroit came storming back took a brief 25-24 lead. Green Bay then scored 10 quick points and 2 late defensive TD's to make the score look even more out of hand. So obviously the Lions had a great comeback before they realized what jersey they were wearing.

Now I'm not shocked that ESPN is trying to ignore this all week but how it happened and how they tried to avoid it was downright hilarious. profootballtalk.com (PFT) obtained an email from an employee where they were ordered to not report or discuss the Favre story, here's the excerpt:

Under the heading “DO NOT REPORT . . . DO NOT REPORT . . . . DO NOT REPORT . . . DO NOT REPORT” (um, we get the point) appears the following:
“Yesterday, FoxSports reported that Brett Favre spent 60 to 90 minutes before the Week Two game between the Lions and the Packers educating the Detroit coaching staff regarding the Packers’ offensive strategies. WE HAVE BEEN TOLD BY RELIABLE SOURCES THIS REPORT IS NOT TRUE. We did NOT report it yesterday. Today, the NFL responded to the report, saying even if Favre did this he did not break any league rules. We are NOT reporting it today, because that would mean airing the erroneous report. DO NOT REPORT IT.”

That excerpt was obtained Tuesday afternoon, also Detroit Lions Head Coach Rod Marinelli was still not commenting on the situation which again makes you think something was up. And by Tuesday Night ESPN finally released a statement to PFT as to why they hadn't reported it: “Like all reports that come in, we gave careful consideration to this one,” ESPN spokesman Josh Krulewitz said. “We couldn’t confirm it. It’s obviously a judgment call. Given the nature of the story, we needed to bring a lot of sensitivity to our reporting and do what we felt was the most responsible thing.”

Sensitivity my ass, the only thing they're sensitive is to Brett Favre's feelings, they went as far as to clear up that the conversation between Favre and Tony Romo the previous week was initiated by Tony Romo and not Favre as originally thought. This was only stated because of the notion that Favre sticks his nose into other team's business (Gee when has he ever done that?)

Even on ESPN's website they employee writers to blog about each of the 8 NFL divisions and Kevin Seifert who's beat is the NFC North still had yet to say anything about it under order from those up top.

Part of the reason they (ESPN) hadn't commented on the story was the validity of it, which is complete BS, just reading up on this story alone I have found out just how good Jay Glazer is with his sources, the man last season got the big scoop breaking the "Spygate" story, this past offseason he was the 1st to report about the Packers filing tampering charges against the Vikings when the whole trade Favre story was hot. And if question him with Favre well he beat NFL Network, Chris Mortensen and Peter King in reporting the Packers traded Favre to the Jets.

But by then it was to late, Glazer earlier in the week saying he believed his story was true by 1000% and on the Dan Patrick show saying it had 1 million % credibility. And when asked about ESPN saying his report was garbage, "Don’t make it personal with me. I’ll make it personal with you.”

Finally Favre decided to pipe up to the media confirming that he did in fact respond to Matt Millen's questions about the Packers and there tendencies. He still decided to defend himself by saying players and teams do this all the time like his teammate Calvin Pace gave some tips when playing the Cardinals. But you know the only difference between those 2 Brett? Calvin actually played for the Cardinals while you're just bitter and as a Packer fan I'd almost feel inclined to turn my back on him until he retired because I would be crushed if a guy like Emmitt or Troy decided to relay info to the Redskins or Giants. He also claimed the conversation was only about 15-20 minutes and was also spent discussing other things like hunting etc...He sure changed his stance from earlier in the week when it was "complete BS"

And back to ESPN, after finally realizing they've been completely owned here's what the higher ups said in another excerpt emailed to PFT:
This story is now HOT.
We had not reported it because it was unsubtantiated [sic].
Today, however, Favre addressed the issue in a public forum so we will go with it.
Use this lead-in:
On Sunday, Fox Sports reported that ex-Packers quarterback Brett Favre had been in contact with the Detroit Lions before their Week 2 game with the Packers, educating the Lions coaches on Green Bay’s offensive schemes.
The Lions, by the way, lost that game 48-25.
Later that day, Favre denied the report in a text message to Sports Illustrated’s Peter King.
Today at Jets camp, Favre addressed that report in his weekly press conference….
WE WILL BE BRINGING IN SOUND FROM THIS SESSION.

But then when ESPN does get around to reporting the article it is completely skewed, so pathetic I just want to link you to PFT's take on it: http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/10/22/espn-butchers-the-favre-story/

CREDIBILITY COMPLETELY SHREDDED! If only there were bigger outlets out there for me to watch instead of almost having to rely on ESPN's biased news network, oh how I yearn for a network with some actual journalistic integrity.

Thanks to PFT for all the links on the story, here are all the links I used for this final story in order:
http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/10/19/favre-denies-helping-lions/
http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/10/21/espn-continues-to-ignore-favre-story/
http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/10/21/espn-issued-internal-do-not-report-warning-on-favre-story/
http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/10/21/espn-explains-decision-not-to-report-favre-story/
http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/10/22/glazer-goes-on-the-warpath/
http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/10/22/favre-admits-to-strategy-session-with-millen/
http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/10/22/espn-finally-embraces-the-hot-favre-story/

And finally before you thought Isiah Thomas couldn't become an even bigger douche bag and laughing stock reports surfaced that he OD'ed on sleeping pills. It's unclear about whether or not it was a suicide attempt. My favorite comment from a message board that I frequent, "Guy can't succeed in anything since his playing career ended, can he?" Tasteless and hilarious. So get off your overplayed and rehashed Nazi schtick Lou Holtz suicide humor is where it's at. But the pathetic part of this pill popping incident was Isiah tried to pin it all on his daughter and even got his son to go along with it. Rush Limbaugh was a pill popper too but he didn't pin any of on his kids that's low even by Isiah standards, what else is there for this guy, just a classless waste of space, and yet all NBA fans are praying he gets another job so his reign of terror can continue.

This is what Isiah had to say about the incident in the AP report, "It wasn’t an overdose,” he told the newspaper. “My daughter is very down right now. None of us are OK.” Then Harrison County Police Chief gave us this golden nugget, "I understand that this person claims it was his daughter; he is lying,” Hall said. “It was definitely not his daughter, it was a male. We know the difference between a 47-year-old black male and a young black female.” Maybe the quote of the year, just when you thought he couldn't go any lower.

Last little bit before I get to picks, the NFL is stupid for not having a Sunday night game because it wants baseball to have it's moment in the sun. What a stupid thing that is, when did sports become about anything but money? Did I miss a memo? I love baseball but if I'm football I'd want to jam my foot up there ass as long as they're going to call themselves the National Pastime and just absolutely crush them in the ratings. I'd try as hard as I could to get a Cowboys vs. NFC East division foe to just completely embarrass baseball, they'd probably still get more ratings if they put a Bengals/Lions game on TV as nauseating as that matchup sounds. It also makes me wonder why John Madden got last week off if he was going to get this week off anyways, just because the fatty's afraid of flying gives him no excuse to miss an announcing assignment because he doesn't want to drive 3 straight weeks across country, especially if you'd get these next 2 weeks to recover.

Alright finally on to the picks, man I had an awful week for picks, now I know why this stuff is so hard to predict, I don't know if the league is mediocre because the league is all close in talent or what but I got murdered.
Last week: 3-11 just abysmal and embarrassing, stupid close games. 0-3 in the over/under could have been a tie if not for that stupid half a point in the Giants/49ers game.
Games I'd bet on: 0-3 and missed on the over/under, so much for trying to build some credibility to this thing.
On the year: 39-44-3 vs. the spread 14-11-2 vs. the over/under
And games I'd bet on: 3-4 and 1-1 for the over/under

Week 8 games:
Atlanta Falcons @ Philadelphia Eagles (-9)
I'm praying for a shootout here as I have the Burner Turner, McNabb and Rowdy Roddy White on my fantasy team this week. Though Atlanta has been no pushover this year they've been less then stellar in 2 of there 3 road games. Defensive Coordinator Jim Johnson will release the hounds upon rookie QB (and current favorite for Rookie of the Year) Matt Ryan and he'll likely be in for a long day. I also read under Andy Reid the Eagles are 9-0 after the bye, Eagles big and I'll take the over which is set at 45. Atlanta's offense better at least halfway show up because I'm tired of losing the over/under by 3 points because an offense can't score 10 freakin points.

KC Chiefs @ NY J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS (-13)
The Chiefs are averaging 8 points on the road for the year and there season just got worse because Brody Croyle is very brittle (which I hate to see, he has a cannon for an arm) Lately these teams facing large spreads have overcame them for the most part, and I expected the Jets to roll big last week but they were on the road. This is a home game and I expect a bounceback performance, Jets.

St. Louis Rams @ New England Patriots (-7)
The Rams are playing with an all time confidence right now and they should be, but the Pats looked equally as impressive last week as they jet us all witness just how truly terrible Denver's defense is (especially once Champ Bailey gets hurt) I'll take the Patriots and people will start buying into them, especially if Sammy Morris has another big game on the ground this week.

Buffalo Bills (-1.5) @ Miami Dolphins
The 1st time I go with Miami last week and of course they crap the bed, and I've been equally as bad picking the Ravens. The Bills need to win this and they will.

Oakland Raiders @ Baltimore Ravens (-7)
Dare I say another positive thing about Joe Flacco only to be partially disappointed again this week? Sure, both teams are riding high after last week, this will be an ugly game but I'll guess Jamarcus Russell throws at least 2 INT's and the O-line struggles to protect them, Ravens.

Washington Redskins (7.5) @ Detroit Lions
The 'Skins were supposed to run all over there last 2 opponents and frankly it's upset me that they havent (yea right) I thought they were ready for primetime but have slipped against the likes of the Rams and Browns. They should be dominating these opponents since this is there easy part of the schedule. The Lions have beat the spread the past 2 weeks and have made games the past 2 weeks, I'll still pick the 'Skins and Clinton Portis (who's running better then anyone right now) since this is a game they should win handily.

Arizona Cardinals @ Carolina Panthers (-4.5)
I've learned to not trust the NFC South when playing on the road but have now learned to trust them at home. They are a combined 3-9 on the road where they are a combined 14-1 at home. Panthers. Over/under set at 43.5 the Panthers aren't known for there offense (does this team have a real identity yet though?) but I'll take the over since they're playing the Cardinals.

San Diego Chargers (-3) "@" Nawlins Saints
The same rules should apply here but this game is in England it's pretty much all bets are off. For the 2nd straight week the Bills are playing are travelling across the country (or in this instance the globe) so who knows if fatigue will be a factor, plus west coast teams struggle with this noon start time. The Saints will be without Reggie Bush and struggled mightily without him getting slaughtered @ Carolina last week. Marques Colston will try and give it a go this week as will Jeremy Shockey. Deuce McCallister and DE Will Smith are facing possible suspension after this week for taking some weight loss pills (or masking the pills for steroids) This is a game to stay away from, the Chargers suck on the road and the Saints are banged up, if I have to pick I'll take Drew Brees, maybe try and prove a thing or 2 to his former organization.

Tampa Bay Bucs @ Dallas Cowboys (-2)
Why the hell is Dallas favored? I realize the home team normally gets 3 points so technically they're not but this team is falling apart infront of our eyes and is just depressing the hell outta me. I expect a fired up effort by our defense this week though aside from 1 game where Jeff Garcia played for the Cleveland Browns he's thrown for 10 TD's and 1 INT at Texas Stadium. But my God Brad Johnson almost made me want Drew Bledsoe back there last week, at least he can throw an accurate ball, Johnson may have thrown 1 or 2 decent looking balls last week, all the others were either to high, to low behind receivers or just lame ducks that hung in the air. I might call for Brooks Bollinger next week if he craps the bed again, do you know how pathetic that sounds? BROOKS BOLLINGER! I'm taking the Bucs, I've picked the Boys ever week and I think they've only covered the Cleveland game. SHOW ME SOMETHING DALLAS!

Cincinatti Bengals @ Houston Texans (-9.5)
Houston for the 2nd straight week favored by a substantial amount against the leagues trash, there offense is good and should cover especially by a team led by Ryan Fitzpatrick (I can't get over that little note) Texans

Cleveland Browns @ Jacksonville Jaguars (-7)
Not much to say about this game, Jaguars

NY Giants @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-2.5)
Nothing would make me happier then to watch Eli with that goofy confused look on his face sulking on the sideline, we got a preview of it in Cleveland when we got see our favorite Eli instead of this Eli on an undeserved pedestal. Eli throws 3 picks and the Steelers roll in steel town.

Seattle Seahawks @ San Francisco 49ers (-5)
I'd hate to live on the west coast where I'd be subjected to this crapfest between a franchise corrupt with injuries and another in disrepair having recently fired there coach among other terrible moves the franchise has made lately. But I'll take the franchise in disrepair (49ers) with there new coach Samurai Mike

Monday Night
Indianapolis Colts @ Tennessee Titans (-4)
I don't know what to make of this Colts team they are very frustrating, I finally expected them to be "back" last week and put on a show vs. the Packers but they got obliterrated so I'll have to bet against them for now. They just arent playing good football right now and 2 of there 3 wins they were more then fortunate on. Titans, but I'd be interested to see the Titans fall behind early because I'm not sure how they'd fare trying to overcome a 2 TD deficit since there defense hasn't put them in that predicament yet.

And now for the games I'd bet on (trumpets please)
Eagles at home vs. the Falcons, Bills on the road vs. the Dolphins and Patriots at home vs. the Rams.
Over/under I'd bet on would be Philly vs. Atlanta take the over at 45

And to the person who commented on not enough Packers last week (Dan?), I'll see what I can do, but they're on a bye this week.

So until next week where I'll probably be writing to myself...

The Highs and Lows of Sports...

2008-10-17T01:04:00.000-07:00

Ah I love sports, there really is nothing like it, sometimes I wonder why I like it so much. I just became attached to it at an early age and have just developed a real unhealthy addiction to it, just about all my free time is devoted to watching sports, reading about sports or even taking my sports nerdiness to the next level and discussing it on the internet. But again why do I like it so much? In the grand scheme of things it's not that important and most of all the payoff is often rare (IE Championships) and in the end more often then not you're left feeling a little demoralized and bummed out almost wondering if your team will ever be successful again. But those moments when you do experience victory that feeling of why you've been watching or playing your whole life comes right back to you.

This past weekend was a great weekend though, for those that don't know I go to Oklahoma State and me and my roomate Cameron drove up to Columbia, Missouri to watch them take on the Missouri Tigers. We have some buddies from high school we were allowed to stay with and we figured why not get hammered and then enjoy some college football on the side. So we made the 6 and a half hour drive up there despite being a heavy underdog to the number 3 ranked Missouri Tigers. Fast forward to Saturday and we're out tailgating among the masses that attend Mizzou, as we're making the way through the parking lot a chorus of boos hits me and Cameron which makes us even more fired up for the game. It was mainly playful aside from one douchebag trying to bait my friend in a fight.

Fast forward to the game, 1st and foremost I was not expecting to win this game, I was really hoping Oklahoma State could just prove they're a legit team, a win was somewhat far from my mind. But man what an intense game, so many twists and turns and back and forth action. We somehow held them to a field goal on the 1st drive when the Tigers were stopped a foot from the goalline and we march down there and score a TD when QB Zac Robinson tucked it and ran it in. Then later we forced them to punt and we also had to punt...or so I thought, on 4th and 18 our punter decided to tuck the ball and try and run for it when we were around our own 35 yard line. Thankfully I found out that wasn't head coach Mike Gundy's decision but the punter has that option when he sees fit. But what was that punter thinking, it's hard enough to run a successful fake punt but to do it where you have to run 18 yards, it's damn near impossible. Not to mention you just gave one of the best offenses in the country fantastic field position and all momentum you had going for you.

So of course they go down and get a quick TD, but the entire 1st half had sloppy special teams play, both teams missed chip shot field goals, one was blocked and one was flat out missed. And towards the end of the half OSU also failed to score some points when Zac Robinson fumbled the ball away costing us another shot at points. So we go into half time down 10-7 even though we clearly out played them and obviously I'm down about it since you're just waiting for the Tigers offense to get going and you feel that we let a giant opportunity slip away. Thankfully we got the ball back in the 2nd half.

So a few plays into the 2nd half and our standout Sophmore Running back Kendall Hunter takes off down the sideline as he dances 68 yards towards the end zone. He did one of those tightrope dances on the sideline and I just think it's amazing how these athletes are able to keep there balance when one is trying to push you out of bounds, same goes for how receivers can get 2 feet down after catching the ball. Then there is some back and forth tug of war for field position as both QB's throw an INT with in a span of 3 plays. Then Mizzou drives the ball 95 yards to retake the lead 17-14, OSU dealing with a ton of pressure follows up with a 40 yard TD pass to Damian Davis, and OSU never lost the lead again, after going up 21-17. Fast forward to after the game where OSU had shocked the country and upset Missouri 28-23 what a great feeling, walking out of the stadium everyone that talked crap after the game were dead silent and not even acknowleding Cameron and I. Our friends didn't want to talk about what they thought would have been a guaranteed victory and all we could do was soak in the sweet feeling of victory with the Oklahoma State fans that walked among us.

Fast forward to the next day where the Dallas Cowboys get down 7-0 on the opening kickoff and continue to trail the majority of the game and me and my friends are cheering our asses off and they complete the miracle comeback to tie up the game on a clutch field goal by Nick Folk. And as sweet as that moment was that was maybe the worst thing that could have happened to this team. The Cowboys win the toss and Tony Romo severely damages his pinkie finger and is noticeably hurt the next 2 plays and obviously the complete screw up by special teams that led to Mat Mcbriar not only damaging his knee but forcing him to miss the remainder of the season. I have said it for the longest time, special teams has been our weak link to this team, it was a large reason why we lost in the playoffs last year and was the reason we lost against Arizona in a game where we should have gained ground on Washington and New York. And on top of the Romo and McBriar injuries Felix Jones, Kevin Burnett, Anthony Spencer are all out for next week, Adam Jones was suspended for 4 games while we still have other people hurt like Pat Watkins and Roy Williams (the safety, who should return this week) and Guard Kyle Kosier.

As I said, in sports you can go from a high to a low in an instance, and what made the loss against Arizona even worse was that me and Cameron were looking ahead to a 6 and a half hour drive back to Stillwater, talk about a kick in the ass. The loss was terrible because this offense hasn't looked good since the Philadelphia game, I'm almost hoping for a Terrell Owens blowup because he deserves to, I've finally realized that he is the real reason this offense goes and when he's held ineffective the team is ineffective. The defense played solid, though Kurt Warner through all over them in the 2nd half but that was due to some spectacular grabs by Larry Fitzgerald and due to Anthony Henry not being able to cover anything that runs faster then a 4.8. But I am tired of the offense, last year we were a downfield passing attack that was pass first, this year it's almost like Jason Garrett offensive coordinator is getting to cute and doesn't always go with what's working and forgets that there is a middle of the field that you are allowed to pass on or that you can move Owens in motion to try and spring him open. I was at least happy to see our defense blitz and not play zone defense much, we were hitting Warner and was surprised at the throws he was making because he was getting absolutely drilled on some plays. Kudos to him and Fitzgerald and the Cardinals defensive line who crapped all over our offensive line who could not stop them if there lives depended on it Sunday, just a downright pathetic display, as bad as the playoff game vs. the Giants last year.

But as I stated Highs go to Lows and Lows go to...the Middle. The trade the Cowboys made to bring in Roy Williams (the receiver) made me happy. We may have given up a little to much but I really don't buy that because ever since we acquired TO everyone has said we need to get a younger legit #2 WR. And guess what, we got him and we didn't need to develop him, we'll have him in the prime of his career rather then take a risk on a player in the draft where a majority of the players bust. He'll be able to pick up the offense as the year goes by and by the time the playoffs come around he should be good to go. This also should help T.O as he's been troubled the past couple games facing constant double teams and teams have been very physical with from the outset since teams will be afraid of Williams on the opposite side whereas a guy like Patrick Crayton and Miles Austin don't exactly strike fear into the other teams. Plus with the amount on draft picks the Cowboys had that is another reason why I am fine with the trade, they still have a 2nd round, 3rd, and multiple 4th 5th and 7th round picks so if they want to they can trade into the 1st round of the draft. And I do not think there are that many positions needed to be adressed for starters, the last several drafts all we have been drafting for are the backup positions or positions to find where the old guys are, the only weak spot we may have is right tackle if we choose to not resign Marc Columbo this off season. I think the 1st round pick is a lot more valuable to the rebuilding Lions then it would be to the Cowboys who would just sit that guy on the bench or he'd see limited time behind the backups.

But so goes the highs and lows and live to see another week...
Here's how I did last week: 8-6 vs. the spread and 2-4 vs. the over/under
On the year: 36-33-3 vs. the spread and 14-8-2 vs. the over/under
And for the games I'd most likely bet on 3-1 vs. the spread and I aced the over/under pick

If there wasn't so much offensive inneptitude I would have won the over/under picks. All New England had to do was get another TD, same for the Ravens and the Raiders/Saints needed 11 more combined points. I knew the Raiders would struggle with a new coach but to the tune of 3 points? Pathetic.

Onto this week:

San Francisco 49ers @ New York Giants (-10.5)
Well for seemingly the 1st time all year I picked the Giants last week and for the 1st time all year Eli was the normal Eli and not the "All-Pro better then his brother Eli" that some moron analysts had hailed him as. But the 49ers defense sucks and seemingly has surpassed the over/under every game they have been in, Giants and over (46.5)

Pittsburgh Steelers (-9.5) @ Cincinatti Bengals
Carson Palmer again appears to be out this game could get ugly, Steelers BIG!

Tennessee Titans (-9) @ KC Chiefs
Last time KC had an undefeated team at there place they pulled off the upset, I think the Titans offense is shaky enough for it to possibly happen despite the Chiefs playing without Larry Johnson. Titans win, but Chiefs cover.

Minnesota Vikings @ Chicago Bears (-3)
Nice divisional matchup between these 2 bitter rivalries, the Vikings coming off a squeaker in Detroit and the Bears coming off a heartbreaker vs. the Falcons. It's hard to imagine this Bears team could be undefeated if not for a few mistakes (like squib kicking last week, it's not like the Falcons have Devin Hester back there) I like the Vikings to march into Soldier field and come out with a victory.

San Diego Chargers @ Buffalo Bills
It looks like there's not really a line set on this game, I've seen a Bills favored by 1 so I'll go with that. It looks like Trent Edwards will start in this game for the Bills which is good for this team coming off there bye week vs. a notable opponent. I liked that San Diego came out with some fire last week vs. the Patriots and they need to continue doing that this week and not come out flat like they did vs. the Dolphins. I'll give them some credit and pick the Chargers, the over/under is set at 44.5, if the Chargers plan on winning it will be somewhat high scoring OVER.

Nawlins Saints @ Carolina Panthers (-3)
Well the Panthers got there butts beat last week, the game was over before it even started, so much for thinking the Bucs weren't for real (why do I continue to doubt Jon Gruden's team?) Drew Brees has been the MVP so far and will continue to play like it vs. this divisional foe, Saints.

Dallas Cowboys (-7) @ St. Louis Rams
I think Tony Romo will get the start, he may not be in very long but in the end I think he will start, the Rams will be fired up since they are coming off a huge upset vs. the Redskins in there own house. The key is for the O-line to block, whether it's for Romo or backup QB Brad Johnson, both are brittle, one has a hurt pinkie the other is coming from a retirement home, they both need max protection. They need the QB to be a game manager vs. the Rams, Washington clearly outplayed them last week but won because of a few costly Redskin mistakes (like that fumble by the 'Skin guard which led to a 60+ yard fumble return for a TD with less then 20 seconds left in the half) I also hope this game doesn't come down to a field goal because Josh Brown is as clutch a kicker as Nick Folk. I'll take the Cowboys, but they haven't covered the spread in a while, maybe since week 1.

Baltimore Ravens @ Miami Dolphins (-3)
What a crappy game, I hardly want to pick this, but so far Miami has looked legit, look for them to contine this nice display at home.

Detroit Lions @ Houston Texans (-9.5)
The Texans have looked like a good team the past 3 weeks though they only have 1 win to show for it. It's hard to believe they're favored by this much but I'll still take it. What's sad is this is probably Detroit's easiest game the rest of the season, there schedule is just brutal. Aside from this week here are probably there easiest opponents: @ Carolina vs. Tampa Bay, vs. Minnesota and @ Green Bay the final week of the seaosn. Those are there easiest games, all their remaining games are vs. playoff contenders. If they're up for moral victories they did cover a significant spread last week vs. the Vikings, they could seriously go 0-16 though.

New York J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS (-3.5) vs. Oakland Raiders
Favre coming off a bye week, he could have another week off and they'd still win this game, JETS! and the over/under is 41, I'll predict Favre puts on a show in the black hole.

Indianapolis Colts (-2) @ Green Bay Packers
The Colts offense looks to finally be back so I'm tired and ready to wrap this up, I'll take them, despite Aaron Rodgers doing fairly well for himself and his team.

Cleveland Browns @ Washington Redskins (-7)
The Browns moved the ball at will on the Giants last week and there defense (which was the key to there game) actually played decent for once. If the normal Giants defense would have shown up they probably would have stomped them because of the sole fact that the Browns killed themselves with penalties, almost as if they were trying to lose the game (and for awhile I was sorta convinced they were) I'll take the Redskins this week for the bounce back, but I'd be more then happy to be wrong.

Seattle Seahawks @ Tampa Bay Bucs (-10.5)
Hard to believe the Seahawks would face a game where they're double digit dogs this year, but they've been decimated by injuries and as soon as there WR's got healthy, Matt Hasselbeck got hurt, so much for the magical sendoff that Coach Mike Holmgrem was hoping for. I guess I'll take the Bucs, albeit reluctantly.

Monday Night
Denver Broncos @ NE Patriots (-3)
The Patriots are going to fall out of the race if they lose this game, so I forsee this as being one of the games Coach Bellichick wins and shocks people since this Broncos team should be able to put points up at will against this team. So I'll go for the surprise with the Pats (though they're favored).

3 most likely matchups that I'd bet
Take the Jets vs. the Raiders, Colts on the road vs. the Packers and the Redskins at home vs. the Browns

Over/under of the week is the Jets vs. Raiders (41)

Until next week, where I'm probably writing to myself

Is Monday Night football back?

2008-10-08T15:05:00.000-07:00

The 2005-2006 NFL season was the final season Monday Night Football had with ESPN, ending over 35 seasons of memories and events and the big bright lights of football on primetime TV. The final decade or so ABC was losing money from Monday Night Football despite it consistently being one of the highest rated shows for there program, but they decided it was time for a change. So there partner station (and sports media's evil empire) ESPN entered into the picture and took over broadcast duties for Monday Night Football. (MNF for short) They'd long hosted the Sunday Night Footballs game but since ABC had left the pro football game, a market in which NBC had been vacant in for years they decided to pony up some dough for the Sunday Night Football game. So now the NFL wanted to make Sunday night the marquee game of the week, much like MNF used to be, they even have the 1st option on the NFL's flex scheduling to switch out games scheduled earlier in the year to get a more favorable matchup.

Al Michaels had been the voice of MNF for over 20 years had jumped ship to NBC to team up again with John Madden and like that another spectacle of yesteryear seemed to be going down the tubes. Gone were the days of Howard Cossell talking to John Lennon and in were the days of Tony Kornheiser rambling incessantly about how Brett Favre walked on water, Monday Night Football was a shell of it's former self.

But this year has changed, I'm still not the biggest fan of Mike Tirico or Tony Kornheiser but I do like Ron Jaworski who is the best at breaking down plays. They're putting more focus on the games, aside from Kornheiser who only sees stars. I like Tony on a smaller format but ESPN has been trying to push him and his co-host from Pardon the Interruption Michael Wilbon down our throats the past couple years, now Wilbon is apart of the pre game show on the NBA on ABC. As crazy as it sounds if ESPN wants a guy who will just ramble on about stars or this weeks top stories I'd choose Charles Barkley, but maybe that's because I love Chuck. The afforementioned Wilbon and Kornheiser are not dumb but I don't think they are qualified at all to be in the position that they're in. But back to the game, they are no longer bringing in a guest every week promoting there new show or upcoming movie and one of the few times ESPN is doing it, they're actually focusing on the games.

And they've had some of the top games the NFL has had this year, 10X better then NBC's Sunday Night Football. Week 1 they had the much anticipated debut of Aaron Rodgers for the Green Bay Packers vs. division rival Minnesota Vikings led by Adrian Peterson. It was a back and forth struggle all game until Rodgers and the Pack broke through and scored a couple TD's. The next week was a wild affair with the Cowboys and Eagles, I can't recall a game that featured so many up's and downs and high's and low's you couldn't look away for your TV or else you'd miss a score or a turnover. And the network exec's were popping bottles open as ESPN scored one if it's highest ratings ever for a cable broadcast, what more could they ask for, a high scoring affair between the most popular NFL team and it's division foe.

The next week the Brett Favre train rolled into San Diego as the Chargers were fresh off having been screwed by Ed Hochuli's crew and they came ready to play. The game was never all that close but like the Cowboys/Eagles game, there were big plays happening all over the field. At 2:03 left in the 1st the Chargers scored a TD, then the 1st play in the 2nd quarter, Antonio Cromartie makes an acrobatic catch and returns a Brett Favre INT for a touchdown. The ensuing kickoff Leon Washington runs it back to the San Diego 6 and the Jets score 2 plays later. Not to worry the Chargers get the ball back and score 2 and a half minutes later. Favre then throws another pick and the Chargers score with 3 minutes left in the half. That my friends is an exciting and action packed quarter of football that you can only wish happens week after week.

And so far this season it has, the Steelers/Ravens game was a physical hard hitting matchup but Joe Flacco looked like a polished veteran the majority of the game. And the Steelers didn't look good until there offense started moving into the no huddle offense. Baltimore was dominating the majority of the game and was up 14-3 then BOOOM! Big Ben Rothlesberger to Santonio Holmes for 38 yards, Ravens get the ball back, 1st play Flacco drops back WACK! Gets sacked by James Harrison and Lamar Woodley picks up the ball and waltzes into the endzone 7 yards out. Picture the BOOM AND WACK! Like they were straight out of a Batman comic where the bad guy doesn't know what hit them, because the Ravens sure didn't. Game goes into overtime and the Steelers squeak out the victory on a Jeff Reed field goal.

And then that brings me to this past week's Monday Night extravaganza, a game the Vikings had no real business winning if not for the Saints ineptitude. There is absolutely nobody out there who would say the Vikings would win if Adrian Pterson was healthy and only rushed for 32 yards on 21 carries. But give Gus "The Concussed" Frerotte credit. By the way, I'm claiming that nickname since I've never seen it, and if you don't know the story, google it. The Saints Monday Night sort of reminded me of my fantasy football team in week 4. I needed like one of 5 things to go my way and none of them did and I barely lost. The Saints outgained the Vikings by over 100 yards and I think 2 times as many yards in the 1st half, but they still trailed 20-10 going into half time.
And then Reggie Bush and some great blocking from his special teams (something Adam "Pac Man" Jones could only dream of on punt returns) took 2 touchdowns to the house. And then the Vikings did something that they haven't done since Daunte Culpepper was launching touchdowns to Randy Moss, won while passing the ball through the air. Frerotte threw a 33 yard TD reception to Bernard Berrian though it was intended for another WR. And later when the game was tied 27-27 with 2 minutes left, he threw it up and stupidly a Saints safety who wasn't looking for the ball (which he could have picked off) ran into the intended Vikings receiver. The Vikings were able to milk the clock down to 14 seconds before kicking the go ahead field goal, game over. I might add that for the 2nd straight week Martin Gramatica missed a potential game winning field goal. They still scare me because there offense led by Drew Brees and Reggie Bush can hang with anyone in the league which makes them a very dangerous potentially underdog team in the playoffs.

If Monday night can keep up this string of great games they can maybe become the primary football game from week to week that we have come to expect. They got the great analyst and Jaws, still have Hank Williams Jr. music "All my Rowdy Friends" that I have always loved and that built in core audience, it is becoming a weekly watch again. Just a couple more tweaks that I would make.

Onto my picks, I had a pretty good week last week, though I lost the 2 primetime games which stifled what could have been a standout week. Damn you Gramatica!

Last week I was: 7-5-2 vs. the spread and 3-3 vs. the over/under
For the year: 28-27-3 vs. the spead and 12-4-2 vs. the over/under
A lot of close games last week, I should have lost the Indy/Houston game if not for monumental collapse by Sage Rosenfels. But I was also just a couple points away from pulling out the Jacksonville/Pittsbugh game if not for a late comeback and had Kansas City got 1 TD or 2 field goals I could have surpassed the over/under in that game, seriously how do you get shut out? And though it is real hard to say perhaps the Bills/Cardinals outcome would have changed if Trent Edwards didn't get injured, of course the Cardinals could just be a completely different team at home then on the road.

Picks for this week:

Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-1.5)
Both teams feature good defenses but the Panthers offense is loads better, and they're only average to slightly above average, for the Bucs to win they'll have to score at least 1 non-offensive TD. Panthers.

St. Louis Rams @ Washington Redskins (-13)
Washington is looking like the best team in the NFC (and yes I realize I'm forgetting the Giants I'll get to that piece of crow in a second) having gone into 2 divisional foes houses and beaten them. There schedule gets a little easier for the time being and there remaining division games are all at home. Washington's offense is good but doesn't really strike me as a team that will completely destroy teams, but this is the Rams we're talking about. I'll take the 'Skins and the over/under is 44 take the over.

Cincinatti @ New York J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS (-6)
The Jets coming off a bye week play the hapless and winless Bengals, the Bengals looked good against my Cowboys and were in position several times to take the lead, especially with Jason Garrett calling a very conservative game plan. The Jets are fresh off there bye week after pounding the Cardinals into the ground in there last game played, if the Jets were favored by a larger number I'd be inclined to choose the Bengals but 6 isn't all that big. The Bengals defense could slow down the Favre passing attack though, maybe Thomas Jones will run the ball a lot this week.

Oakland Raiders @ Nawlins Saints (-7.5)
Had the Saints not made so many crucial mistakes last week in the 1st half they would have won that game somewhat handily, they need to rebound. Luckily da RAAAAAIDAS are fresh off firing Lane Kiffin and going into the Superdome, look for the Saints to blow them out big to where they won't need to rely on Martin Gramatica's leg, because the only thing that's been automatic about him lately is his ability to miss kicks with games on the line. Hope that line didn't come off as lame as it probably did. Over/under 47 if the Raiders can get 2 touchdown's this game should surpass it. Over

Miami Dolphins @ Houston Texans (-3)
2 straight weeks the "Wildhog" formation has worked for the Dolphins, the Texans are coming off what could be considered the franchises most devastating loss but I think they rebound, I'm not completely ready to buy into what Big Bill and Tony Sparano is doing in Miami, Texans at home.

Chicago Bears (-2.5) @ Atlanta Falcons
The Bears could easily be 5-0 right now if not for blowing some 2nd half leads and they'll regret that later on in the season when they're battling for a playoff spot in the division. Atlanta is 3-2 riding high after going into Lambeau, Michael "the burner" Turner finally had a good game on the road and one of the most underappreciated WR's in the league "Rowdy" Roddy White (coined by me, taken from Rowdy Roddy Piper) had 115 yards in the 1st half. For the 2nd straight year I'm reaping the benefits of him being the only legit receiver on that team, and the only one the QB will target. Atlanta has looked great at home and that's why I'm picking this to be an upset FALCONS!

Detroit Lions @ Minnesota Vikings (-13)
I think this Lions team is as bad if not worse then the Dolphins were last year. You know how much you suck when a team who can't pass the ball is favored by 13 against you, and it's even worse when I have to take them.

Baltimore Ravens @ Indianapolis Colts (-4)
I'm still waiting for that breakout game for Peyton Manning and the Colt offense, it most likely won't come this week but they've only looked like the Colts of old when faced with some urgency in a crucial moment where they absolutely have to score. I'm going to take them this week but wouldn't be shocked if they lost because Joe Flacco has put his team in position to win the past 2 weeks only to have them blow it in the games waning seconds. Over/under is 38.5 it's low for just about any game but high for a game involving the Ravens, I'll take the over though.

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Denver Broncos (-3.5)
The Broncos proved last week they can play a low scoring grind it out game, and the Jaguars last week proved they can score points if needed. The Broncos this week are without Tony Scheffler and Selvin Young (though he doesn't matter enough b/c Shannahan won't give him the damn ball!) But it shouldn't matter as long as Brandon Marshall is in the lineup, but I'm going to guess the Jags pull off the upset anyways. Come on the Colts and Jaguars can't let the Titans already run away from the division, not even halfway through the season.

Philadelphia Eagles (-4.5) @ San Francisco 49ers
The Eagles are 2-3 yes but this line is absurdly low, I mean sure the teams have identical records but I refuse to believe this 49er team is good. It looks like Brian Westbrook may not play which could even up the playing field but I still take the Eagles, just hope they don't have to rely on a running back punching it in from the 1 yard line. Andy Reid you have when healthy, a top tier QB who can make plays with his feet and arm, all you have had to do the past 2 weeks is play action rollout and look for a wide open tight end in the back of the end zone, yes it is that easy. And although the 9ers suck I hope they keep getting these low over/under lines, it's at 42.5 this week; Over.

Green Bay @ Seattle (-2)
That was an embarrassing display last week by the 'Hawks, maybe it was the 9 o'clock west coast start time (the NFL should fix that for west coast teams playing on the east coast) I thought they'd look different since Deion Branch and Bobby Engram were coming back but now it looks like Matt Hasselbeck could be hurt, if not for the Packers close losses the past 2 weeks they'd be favored, and I guess on a neutral site they are. DUH DUH DUH. DUH DUH DUH DUH GO PACK GO! The over/under is 46.5, I'm staying away from that line, if the 'Hawks offense shows up this week they'll surpass that though.

Dallas Cowboys (-5) @ Arizona Cardinals
The past 3 weeks I have disliked Jason Garret's offense, it has either been to run heavy or pass heavy, he's called to many short routes on passing play when we have excelled at a more vertical and downfield passing attack. And last week though it worked to some extent I've never seen an offensive coordinator call the same running plays so many times, the fake pass handoff to Barber is a good play, but it's not good enough to where I need to see it 15 times. And though it worked this week I'd like to never see a pitch on a short yardage situation, much less a 4th and 4, I don't care how fast Felix Jones is, it only takes 1 defender to stay keep containment and the play is dead. I want to see a more agressive offense that I'm used to seeing I don't want you to forcibly run the ball because people in the media are bitching about it or get it into our star WR's hands because everyone thinks he'll run a hissy fit I just want to see great offensive execution that everyone is used to seeing and not this conservative BS. I'm almost curious if Garrett doesn't want to give away any of our big plays that we may use come playoff time.
Defensively I still see us playing zone defense, not so much last week, Adam Jones was manned up on Chad Johnson last week and was our best defensive player and that was while our defense was getting little to no pressure. Why have we not shown any agressiveness towards getting after the oppositions QB, is it because then you have to force your CB's to go one on one with no safety help if you decide to play man? We are playing a QB this week who is immobile and fumble prone if you can get to him he gets a little rattled we need to get after Warner early and often. I want at least 4 sacks and a INT. This is a game I can easily see us losing. Arizona has scored 72 points in 2 home games but I'll stick with my team in this tough situation where they have looked less then impressive.

New England Patriots @ San Diego Chargers (-5.5)
These 2 teams are bitter and hate each other, the Chargers are painted in the media as cry babies and whiners while the Patriots are viewed as cheaters in the eyes of many and there coach is a jackass. None of these teams have much respect for each other and the fans of other teams don't care much for either of these teams. I think like in week 2 when Bellichick faced off against Eric Mangini and Favre he had something planned and I imagine he has something in store for the Chargers this week. The Chargers at times have looked attentive and lacked agression but will come ready to play today. Chargers at home, over/under is 44.5, take the over, especially if the Chargers are going to win

Monday Night
New York Giants (-8) @ Cleveland Browns
It's hard to believe that this game could be another great matchup for ESPN, but the Browns are desparate and in dire need of a win coming off there bye week. If they have any hope of getting into the playoffs they need this game to prove that they are still here, they will come out with a ton of fire it will be up to the Giants to extinguish that fire. I've been wrong about the Giants the entire season, wanting them to fail, I'm still not completely sold on Eli but for the 1st time this season I will concede that they are legit and a top 3 team in the league (arguably #1) I'll even pick them to win this week, they should win big but I've seen stranger things happen. Wouldn't even be completely shocked to see them lose (wishful thinking?) Over/under 43, Over.

And I'd like to start choosing the 3 games I'd be most likely to bet on and the best pick for the over/under

3 games: take the Saints at home vs. the Raiders, Panthers on the road vs. the bucs (hopefully they'll prove they're legit) and Philly on the road vs. the 49ers

Over/under of the week take the over in the Philadelphia/49ers game 42.5 should be high scoring

Until next week, where I'll probably be writing to myself.

Here's a link to the Rangers review who's to lazy to scroll down: http://dirtfromd.blogspot.com/2008/10/rangers-season-is-over.html

NFL picks week 5

2008-10-03T15:10:00.001-07:00

I just wrote a long post and don't have it in me to completely focus on my annoyance on this past week's Cowboys loss. Let's just say the entire Sunday was a complete disaster for me. A couple quick things on the game though, the offensive and defensive gameplan sucked, just an embarrassment. Why must the Cowboys insist on playing zone defense and not only that, give each WR they face 8 yards minimum each play, it allowed Jason Campbell to pick them apart because he rarely had a 3rd and long. Offensively, I don't like the fact that they ran only 8 times with a running back but that wasn't the worst part, Jason Garrett got to cute, he kept calling short routes rarely trying any long or intermediate passes and he kept trying to work the sidelines for what ever reason but whenever we went over the middle we did a good job explointing it. And we lost the game by coddling to TO's "needs" and half the passes that went his way weren't good passes, granted he was being covered well the whole game but Romo's accuracy was off at times. And why is this team almost scared to get Felix Jones involved in the offense? They've gotten away from him more and more each week, he's a valuable weapon USE HIM! This team better be in gear this week because it will be embarrassing if Cincinatti keeps it close like they did vs. the Giants 2 weeks ago.

And on top of the Cowboys loss was the field day I had fantasy wise, I have multiple teams but really 1 or teams that I pay alot of attention to particularly one where I have 60 bucks invested in with hopes to turn into more money. The 1st thing I see when I wake up at 1:30 is Carson Palmer decided to take the week off in one of the few weeks where they'll have a shot at winning, then Robert Meacher WR for the Saints gets 99 yards, if you get 100 receiving or rushing yards you get an extra 5 points, I was going against LT and Phillip Rivers I needed those points! Damn you Drew Brees and Sean Payton for reluctantly playing him! Roddy White was also held to 90 yards.

So I was up about 45 points when the Chargers got playing and I only had a kicker going, the good thing was though the Raiders were holding them all game until the 4th quarter, where 1 minutes into the quarter Rivers throw a TD pass followed quickly by a Tomlinson touchdown not even 2 minutes later. At this point I'm panicking, but for the next 9 minutes in the game the Raiders and Chargers seemed to just be going back and forth exchanging possessions and the Chargers get a field goal with 1:51 left in the game to take a 21-18 lead, the Raiders get the ball back and the drive ends with a Jamarcus Russell incompletion with 1:17 left in the game, so you think okay the game is pretty much a done deal, Chargers get the ball back run once with Tomlinson, timeout Raiders. Then a dagger goes through my heart, LT is sitting at 60+ yards and lo and behold he scampers 40 yards for a TD leaving me in shock the next hour. So not only does he get a meaningless TD but goes over 100 yards to get an extra points and I go from up 12 to down 5 in a matter of seconds. And to top it off we have both our kickers going in the Sunday night game, and to sum it up, David Akers misses 2 FG's over 40 yards, he makes 1 of them we tie the game and since I had the tie breaker I would have won.

Isn't fantasy football grand?

Onto the picks, hopefully next week I'll get back to football in the real world (and pick back up to bitching about the Cowboys

Last week I was 7-6 and 3-1-1 vs. the Over/Under
So for the year that is 21-22-1 and 9-1-1 picking the Over/Under

Buffalo @ Arizona (-1)
I'm a little surprised that the Bills aren't favored in this game. Granted they've gotten off to really bad starts 2 weeks in a row they've still won both of those games, while Arizona is coming off a week where they gave up 56 points and also have a hobbled Anquan Boldin. I'll take Buffalo, and the over/under is 48.5 take the over, especially if 'Zona gets down early.

Kansas City @ Carolina (-9.5)
KC is riding high after last week...and will crap the bed this week. Carolina over/under is 38.5, come on they'll find a way to combine to go over that.

Chicago (-3.5) @ Detroit
Detroit looking for a fresh start after there bye week and they get a rival at home. They should stack the box the entire game looking to stop Matt Forte and I'll even hazard a guess that they're successful at it for a majority of the game but in the end the Bears will pull away.

Cincinatti @ Dallas (-16.5)
I'm a little leary at the spread of this game, I mean the Bengals suck but still that's 2 TD's and a field goal I'll pick the Bengals to cover Cowboys to win. Curious if Chad Johnson get's a TD too, I'll guess if Terrell Owens gets 2 TD's he'll steal Chad's TD Dance. Over/under 44 take the over. Of course if Carson Palmer fails to play again I'll take Dallas.

Tampa Bay @ Denver (-3)
I can't imagine Denver losing at home and they'll bounce back against Tampa Bay. Look for them to jump on the Bucs out of the gate and the Bucs don't have enough firepower to come back, though you don't really need that much firepower against this Denver defense. And I think Denver has gone over the over/under every game they've played, it's set at 47.5 and I'll take the over.

Atlanta vs. Green Bay (-4)
I usually use Yahoo sports for looking at the spread, but since Aaron Rodgers status is up for grabs it says n/a. Another site I looked at says the Pack is favored by 4. Green Bay has struggled both running and stopping the run so Atlanta has a shot, and I'll pick them to pull off the upset.

Indianapolis (-3) @ Houston
Houston should be fired up for there home opener and I'm excited to see if Peyton and the Colts have worked out all there kinks in the offense. Both teams are coming off close losses to the Jaguars, give me the Colts.

Pittsburgh @ Jacksonville (-4)
Pittsburgh deserved to lose last week and had they not been facing a rookie QB with fumbling problems they probably would have. Jacksonville rolls in this game

New England (-3) @ San Francisco
I pray Randy Moss can come back to this offense, he failed to light up the Dolphins and if he struggles against the 49ers defense you know somethings wrong. I just need 1 week where people believe he's back so I can ship him off my team. Oh yea, there's still a game to be played, take the Patriots but if they get stomped you know they won't be making the playoffs and all Bill Belichick will focus all his energy on beating Eric Mangini and the Jets again. Also San Francisco has been puttingi up some pretty big numbers this year, this game should surpass the over/under of 41.

Seattle @ NY Giants (-7)
I'm tired of the Giants looking mediocre week to week and seeing them squeak out a victory, Eli still doesn't look that great but no one will say anything because of that Superbowl MVP and the fact that he was bailed out by Amani Toomer's great catch in OT against the Bengals 2 weeks ago. Seahawks get back Deion Branch and Bobby Engram this week and I'm taking the Seahawks.

Washington @ Philadelphia (-6)
I'm curious as to how this game is a 6 point favorite in advantage of the Eagles, they're 2-2 and there 2 best players McNabb and Westbrook are hurt and may not play. Whereas Washington has looked like the best team in the division since week 2, normally when they have any kind of momentum going for them though they screw up. I'll still take the 'Skins.

San Diego (-6.5) @ Miami
The Chargers are back and coming off a big comeback win vs. the raiders and they should roll in Miami. The Cardinals QB Kurt Warner picked apart the Dolphins secondary in week 2 and I look for this week to be much of the same. Over/under is 45 take the over.

Tennessee (-3) @ Baltimore
I really really liked how Joe Flacco looked last week, he made a couple mistakes and fumbled the ball a couple times but overall was a good performance vs. a tough Pittsburgh defense, maybe Baltimore has finally found a quarterback, he's got a rocket arm, can run and looks like he can make all the passes. The Ravens should have won last Monday. You know how much I like Flacco? I'm going to pick them to upset the Titans and hand them there 1st loss.

Monday Night

Minnesota @ Nawlins (-3)
I expect the Saints to have a good passing game despite there lackluster offensive line Drew Brees still gets it done nearly every week. The Vikings are the type of team you can succeed playing the bend but don't break defense and if you can keep Adrian Peterson limited or stifle him a couple drives you should be able to beat them. And if you get a lead early they're screwed. Saints.

The Rangers season is over...

2008-10-03T03:30:00.001-07:00

This is always one of the worst times of the year sports wise, baseball's coming to an end and unless you have real interest in playoff baseball you pretty much are stuck doing nothing waiting for the weekend. Not to say I hate playoff baseball but my interest goes down with every passing year the Rangers don't make it. And the lack of football during the week doesn't help aside from the occasional upset (like last weeks Oregon State victory over USC) Sports is always good when there is at least 2 sports going on at a time, that's why from about the time March Madness starts to the middle of May or June is the best sports time of year. Because normally one season is winding down and teams are gearing up for a playoff run and the other team has hope and rejuvenation hoping to make something out of the upcoming season.

Think about it you got the most exciting tournament in all of sports with March Madness, the NBA is about to start its playoffs while baseball season is starting up (and there is nothing like baseball's Opening Day) And if you are as big a draftnik as I am the NFL draft is at the end of April which gets you more excited for the upcoming season.

But I'm rambling as that time is months away, I'm hear to talk about the Rangers season in review. There was some good and some bad, most people around here care so little about the Rangers they just ask them to get them to Cowboys training camp with a respectable record. It started off terrible but they got there record back to .500 by June and sat around the .500 mark for a couple months. In early August they got to a season high 6 games over .500 when they took the 1st 2 games of a 4 game series vs. the New York Yankees. Then after that they started to fall off, losing 14 of there next 17 games and never getting back to .500. David Murphy played his last game August 6th and Ian Kinsler got a sports hernia August 17th and that ended his season when at the time he was one of the best offensive players in the game.

There were plenty of good games and at those times I felt really good about this team and then there were times where I was completely disgusted with this team and if I had something better to do (you know like hang out with friends) I probably would have ignored them. Instead I caught every game I could even if the team did piss me off the night before.

Here are the good things about the team this year:
Josh Hamilton, easiest choice, I think people were aware of his potential just based on when he was drafted and what he did in limited time last year but still it's just amazing to watch him play, whether it's him chasing down a long fly ball, gunning down a guy at home or 3rd, watching him turn the burners on as he runs for a standup triple or send a homerun into the upper deck the guy did just about everything you could ask for him this year. And to think he could become even better.

Emergence of Ian Kinsler, I personally feel he was the Rangers best player this year, people love the Hamilton story and I understand that but the majority of the time Kinsler was healthy he was the AL leader in VORP (Value Over Replacement Player for you non-sabermatricians) and some defensive metrics say he's gets to the most balls of any 2nd baseman and despite his high error totals that is what I want out of my defense rather then a high fielding % and a guy with limited range (Michael Young) He is becoming a leader of this team and is a big reason why this team featured the league's best offense, he'll battle with Dustin Pedroia for the best AL 2nd baseman crown for years (maybe sprinkle in Brian Roberts and Robinson Cano too if he bounces back)

The play of all the young players getting there 1st shot of extended playing time:
From Chris Davis to Taylor Teagarden to Matt Harrison to David Murphy and plenty of others just about every young player that got a look in the big leagues had at least 1 positive game or moment in there time up here (even Luis Mendoza, though I'd be better off never seeing him again)
But I think the Rangers this year found there future 1st baseman (or DH or 3rd baseman, depending on what the club decides is best for Chris Davis) There future catcher (whether it be Jarrod Saltalamacchia or Taylor Teagarden I'm fine either way) And with Nelson Cruz's successful September the club will have to decide who they want to be in there starting outfield in 2009 between him and David Murphy. 1 or 2 future starters in Scott Feldman and Matt Harrison. A potential 7th or 8th inning guy in Warner Madrigal (and a perennial candidate for ugliest player in baseball) along with a possible solution for the closer position with Frankie Francisco. Francisco inherited the closer role after CJ Wilson was shut down for the year and Eddie Guardado was shipped to the Twins, here are the #'s he posted in his brief stint as closer:
11 Appearances, 11 IP, 4 hits, 4 BB, 1 R, 0 ER and 18 strikeouts
I think the team has also found there future utility player with German Duran, could be pending for the next year based on whether or not Ramon Vazquez will come back. The team also found there 4th or 5th outfielder in Brandon Boggs and a possible backup C in Maximus Ramirez.

So all in all the club had a club record 55 players and a number them contributed in some sort of positive manner, did I mention there is more on the way...

Which leads to my last positive on the season, the farm system. Ranked a paltry 28th just a couple seasons ago this club has done a massive rehaul to this organization's farm clubs, headed by a couple of smart trades by GM Jon Daniels and some successful drafts I've seen in some ESPN chats the past week that Baseball America's Jim Callis and ESPN's Keith Law considers Texas to boast the top farm system in baseball as of right now. This system is so loaded at nearly every position and plenty of experts have different opinions on who this organizations #1 prospect is, whether it be Neftali Feliz or Elvis Andrus (both acquired in the Mark Teixeira trade) Derek Holland (drafted 25th round and signed as a draft and follow) Justin Smoak (drafted 11th this past year, considered by many to be a steal) or Engel Beltre (acquired in the Eric Gagne trade) But the great thing is that hardly begins to touch the surface of how deep and loaded with top notch prospects this system possesses. It's scary to think how good this thing can become...but with our luck few will pan out like they should and the ones that do get traded away, and so goes the life of a Rangers fan.

You didn't think it could all be susnshine and lollipops did you? After all this is the Rangers we're talking here, so let's get to some negatives:

The slow start - for the 2nd straight year this team has been the worst in baseball coming out of the gate, mixing in some of the worst defense I've seen, terrible pitching and an anemic offense it hasn't been a good mix. Texas has an easier schedule to start out next April and it is ver important for this team to get off to a good start, if not we could possibly see the Rangers mix up some positions in the front office or see Ron Washington lose his job (which he was mighty close to losing in late April) In 2007 this team was out of the race by April and it was pretty much the same story this year, sure we got within 4 or 5 games of the Angels in early July but we still only played a couple meaningful games and none of those came in the last month and a half of the season.

The defense - The Rangers had 129 errors in the league far and away the most in the league. The catchers, pitchers 2nd baseman and 3rd baseman each had 20 errors by players who fielded those positions. This led to the team giving up 967 runs, but only 860 runs were earned. I realize that errors are not the end all be all to defense and they will happen from time to time but someone is not doing there job whether it's the coaches or our players are just dumb when you give up over 100 unearned runs! What's especially embarrassing is that Ron Washington was brought into improve infield defense and it's gotten exponentially worse. I'm curious how many times in the past decade pitchers and catchers have combined for over 40 erros. The 2003 Detroit Tigers lost 119 games, how many errors did there pitchers and catchers have, they combined for 20!

And of course the pitching - I feel bad for just about anyone in our building it has to be extremely taxing. Jamey Wright was completely abused and the last half of the season he was completely useless and yet Ron Washington kept calling his name from the bullpen. The 1st 2 months of the season he had a 2.97 ERA and at the end of June still had a 3.60 ERA and after that it never got below 4.26. He never made less then 10 appearances in a month though he was a massive pile of suck the last 3 months of the season and yet every other day Ron Washington would come calling to the bullpen going for his #1 guy, I just didn't understand it. And he just melts when faced with any sort of adversity, whether he's called in during a tough spot or he creates it himself by walking the 1st 2 batters of the inning.

And on top of giving up the most hits in the league they were 25th in the league in walks, and a couple times walked at least 9 in a game. It's bad enough seeing your pitcher get shelled but when he's making the problem worse by walking a guy it's just a dagger.

Injuries also stacked up against this team, looking at this team for pitchers who pitched at least 20 innings on this team, these are the players who didn't go on the DL: Warner Madrigal, Jamey Wright, Sydney Ponson, Josh Rupe, Frankie Francisco, Matt Harrison and Kameron Loe. So pretty much if you were a starter on this team chances are you ended up on the DL.

And then there are several incidents where Ron Washington made boneheaded decisions on who to choose out of the bullpen.

But I digress, all in all it was a very fun season my favorite moments came when Josh Hamilton in his 2nd game of the year hit a 9th inning 2 run homerun off Seattle Mariners closer JJ Putz to give them a 5-4 win. The other 3 favorite moments of mine was the walkoff homer again by Hamilton this time at home off of Francisco Rodriguez. And my personal favorite because I was at the game was the Marlon Byrd walk off grandslam. I remember my friend Justin bringing up the scenario prior to the game or the inning before and then lo and behold in the 9th inning the bases are loaded for Marlon Byrd and 1st pitch off Damaso Marte is sent into centerfield and to top it off it was against the Yankees! The worst game I'd guess would be the 19-17 loss vs. the Red Sox where we got down 10-0 and eventually took the lead only to blow it, thankfully that was one of the few games I missed.

This offseason will be interesting, how will the catching situation be sorted out? Who will be this years starting 1st baseman, 3rd baseman or DH? Will David Murphy or Nelson Cruz be the primary starter next year in the outfield? Will the club pick up Hank Blalock's option since he finished the season strong? Or is there a possibility that Milton Bradley will be re-signed (though it's looking less likely) Will Jon Daniels go after a big name pitcher via trade or free agency and who will be in the bullpen come next spring?

Personally here's what I would do, I would move Chris Davis back to 1st base and start Travis Metcalf at 3rd base next year. He's the best fielder we have and it helps to have an abover average defensive player next to Michael Young. And of course since this is what I want to do I would resign Milton Bradley (though I'm almost certain it's not going to happen) I would also pick up Hank Blalock's option with the intent to trade him.
If I have to choose between Nelson Cruz and David Murphy I'll take Nelson Cruz, maybe it's a little crazy but after watching him the last month of the season he's changed for the better. He's finally learned how to take a walk which he had never shown before at the major league level, I like Murphy, he's the kind of players love to gush about for playing his heart out and being a David Eckstein type player. The announcers will bring up all kind of superlatives for "playing the game the right way" and all kinds of other compliments just to avoid saying he's white. But Cruz has more power, is a better defensive player (though they're both good) and it appears he can get on base at a higher clip. Plus this club is really missing a good right handed bat in there lineup, it's predominantly left handed. And they're both going to be cheap, either way you're going to get the players prime years of his career for cheap and Cruz appears to have a bigger upside, they're only separated by 15 months too so it's not like Murphy is alot younger then Cruz.

I think the club should go after Derek Lowe, people say sinker ball pitchers work in this park and he's one of the best there is. This could turn into a Milwood type signing but if he is willing to go 3 years (and I might even go 4) for 50 million or so I'd be all over that. And if I was Daniels I would also try and acquire a young starter that is under control for ahwile. I think that is what is going to happen and since I chose to keep Nelson Cruz over David Murphy I'd dangle him and a couple top prospects in a trade for a guy like Matt Cain or Zach Greinke. And right now there are rumors speculating that Jake Peavy is available, Yes please. They need help at about every position, here are the players not available in a trade for Peavy: Ian Kinsler, Josh Hamilton Neftali Feliz and Derek Holland. And I think that I might give up one of Feliz or Holland, they'd just have to not expect to get much else with them.

I think this team will trade 2 of 4 catchers Gerald Laird, Taylor Teagarden, Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Max Ramirez. I pray that Laird is one of the 2 out and then I'd trade either Salty or Teagarden for the best value. I think that Teagarden is easily our best defensive catcher and he surprised me with his bat in September, he can really put a charge in the ball when a pitcher makes a mistake. I think his value is alot higher then Salty's at this point. I think in the end he'll be the better hitter out of the 4 though, he possesses the best OBP skills and the last month before he got hurt he hit over .350. He struggles mightily against lefties but hit .311 against right handed hitters. If we can get Clay Buchholz from the Red Sox for either of them I'd do it in a heartbeat, he came into this season ranked as one of the best prospects in the game but struggled with his command, he alread has a No-hitter under his belt and strikes out nearly a batter an inning he just needs to get some control he possessed in the minors, of course with our pitching instructors that never seems to happen with us.

As for next season it's just another season of building which is what Ranger fans don't want to hear but it's the truth, another year where our prospects develop and move through our system, maybe even Derek Holland or Neftali Feliz makes a start next September or Elvis Andrus or Julio Borbon play with the big league club. I can't decide if the Rangers were lucky or unlucky this year, they had the worst defense and pitching but on the other hand had a ton of young players coupled with the best offense. They won 79 games and there pythagorem theory was 76 wins so they didnt completely outperform expectations where the Angels overachieved by a dozen games. I imagine that next year will be more of the same, I don't expect the defense to be as bad and I don't expect us to be as bad to start the season but then again I thought the same thing about this team coming into this season.

NFL Picks to come....

Discussing the NFL bye week and why it should change...

2008-09-24T20:44:00.000-07:00

One of the annual annoyances that I have with the NFL is the bye week. Now it's not the problem I have with the bye week themselves but when they start is the problem and to think it actually used to be worse. Before the expansion Texans came into the league I can remember that some teams got there bye weeks the 1st week or 2 of the season. Nowadays since there is an even number of teams the bye week starts in week 4 with 5 weeks 4 teams getting off and 2 weeks of 6, though it will be different this year with Houston and Baltimore's schedule being readjusted due to there cancelled games.

But back to the point at hand, what good can it do a team to have a bye week in the 1st 6 weeks in the season? The only reason I can understand is injuries, which should help the Seahawks receiving core and trying to get experience to your new starters like the Patriots and there new quarterback, but aside from that who wants a week off now as to when you and your team could really use it in the middle of the season. My proposal is to have the bye weeks be from weeks 8-11, 8 teams get a bye week for 4 straight weeks, that way you can have 13 weeks of every team playing (which should make you more money) as opposed to having just 11 weeks of every team playing. Not to mention no team gets a real competitive edge for there bye week because everyone is getting off around the same time and have time to heal and rest up for the 2nd half of the season as opposed to now where teams like the Colts, Pats and Seahawks are getting a bye week not even a quarter of the way through the season.

I mean if you really wanted to get crazy you could give everyone a week off and try and legitimize your all star game and have that in the middle of the season to try and make someone give a damn about the game. Just trying to give the NFL some criticism for a league that receives all to little of it.

Onto week 3:

The Cowboys proved that as of right now they are the best team in the league, and they did this with there quarterback playing less then stellar and a defense that has yet to come up with an interception. Of course you'll hear every expert from now until January say that we'll see how this team does in December and January which is true but it gets a little annoying hearing the same repetitve B.S. week in and week out, but hey who doesn't love cliches? The real thing that bothered me this thing is for the 3rd time in 3 games Romo once again tried to channel his inner-Favre and make something out of nothing, 3 weeks in a row he's got a interception in the red zone and almost fumbled away another chance in the red zone that Flozell Adams was able to recover. I understand that he is trying to stay in the pocket more and more this year and his line is doing stellar most of the time (though they left alot to be desired against Green Bay) but they should try and get him on the run more or out of the pocket, also I think at times he should tuck it and run rather then throw it away or try and force something downfield.

Despite the o-lines lackluster play in pass protection the running game was the exact opposite, Felix Jones and Marion Barber both had big gains and both got into the endzone, Felix has a burst that few others in this league have and he's almost unstoppable when he's got room to run. Also Jason Witten proved why he's the best tight end in the league, and John Madden has a new mancrush. Of course he has plenty of people to choose from on this Cowboys team, you have Brett Favre's bastard child at QB, a real bruiser for a running back and the most complete tight end in the league that does everything right and never raises his voice in anger, a real "pro's pro"

Defensively they held up very well against the run and the coverage downfield was impressive, I hope this team continues to play more man coverage, I hope I never have to see Anthony Henry on Greg Jennings again though. I also think the pass rush was good, they took down Aaron Rodgers plenty and he looked visibly flustered. This game was not as close as the score indicated.

Onto other games

Alot of exciting games this past weekend, 4 games decided by less then a field goal and won or lost by a crucial play, and another game decided by a touchdown. Also a crappy week for me when it came to picking/trusting the big time favorites. Most of the double digit favorites failed to cover (NY Giants, NE Patriots or Buffalo Bills)

Chicago for the 2nd straight week choked a lead when they should easily be 3-0, with Matt Forte showing he's legit and the Bears defense appearing to be back in Superbowl form this is the type of loss that can be completely demoralizing and possibly wreck a season.

Buffalo may have gotten a little to big for there head but was able to salvage the day when Trent Edwards led his team down the field for 2 4th quarter TD's. I didn't get this game on TV but from what I've heard poor management by the entire Oakland personnel was a big reason in the Raiders collapse, not good for Lane Kiffin who has been on pins and needles since before the season. Though I have heard he wants to go back to the college game anyways.

I think we all knew that Cincinatti was bad but due to there performance against the Giants they proved they are no longer in the worst team in the league discussion, which I think is now down to Kansas City, St. Louis and Detroit, what a terrible time to be a fan of Missourri sports (though Chase Daniel and the Tigers could probably hang 40 on either of the NFL teams) Terrible clock management by Cincinatti on there game tying drive though, it gave them no shot at having a crack at the endzone and they had to settle to go for a field goal. If I was Marvin Lewis I may have taken a shot, you're on the road your team is playing way over it's head it would have been a boom/bust decision, but this team's been a complete bust anyways. But alas a very average day by Eli Manning is brushed over because he makes a couple throws in overtime (really a great catch by Amani Toomer, a great pass by Manning would have led Toomer as he waltzes in the endzone. But why let criticism get in the way of the "Golden Boy" )

In the Pittsburgh/Philadelphia battle for state supremacy I can't recall the last time a quarterback took the beating that Ben Rothlesberger did in a game, I don't know how he lasted almost the entire game, it's almost if his entire offensive line bet against them. The only game I can recall that comes close was last year when Donovan McNabb was sacked 12 times, but I think a big part in that was Winston Justice gave up 6 sacks himself and McNabb at times was unwilling to get rid of the ball, the Giants weren't blitzing all that much. Big Ben may not have been sacked as much as McNabb but Philly was relentless in there attack and the hits kept on coming, and he was already playing that game hurt.

Josh Scobee is a bad mutha, 2nd time he's made a game winning kick in Indianapolis. How long will we give Peyton Manning until we start to wonder how healthy he really is? He's been money when the team has needed him to be but aside from a couple of late drives he just hasn't been the Manning of old. I also think I underrated the loss of Bob Sanders last week figured with big injuries to the Jaguars offensive line they'd be able to stop MoJo Drew and Fred Taylor's tandem running attack.

How long will Denver be able to barely skate by with these wins? That defense is bad, but the offense has just overmatched everything the other teams defense has thrown at them. And there running game hasn't even been that great (sans Selvin Young, seriously Mike, start him and give him 15-25 carries a game for the benefit of your team and my fantasy team!)

And I hope last week means we can finally cool the Jets playoff talk, even with the New England Brady's getting there butts handed to them this week by the "hog formation" and the Dolphins (side note: thank you to my fantasy opponent for keeping Ronnie Brown on the bench last week) But we all knew that the Chargers were coming out and coming out hard last week and the Jets couldn't slow them down and made that game look a lot closer then the 19 point loss indicated.

Before I get to the picks, here's some thought's on the Redskins/Cowboys game this week:

I hate the 'Skins, everything about them is annoying from those cross dressing fans, to Joe Gibbs to that Jerry Jones wannabe midget Daniel Snyder to there racist name (how has Redskin stood pat in the age of Political Correctness? Guess it got a grandfather clause, Don Imus must have missed the deadline for applicants) But it seems like the 'Slurs take it all to another level almost as if they enjoy having ultimate bragging rights on being Dallas's #1 rivalry. And I don't care if neither team is great they are still our biggest rivalry sorry Philly and G-men, I realize we are severely hated there but not to the extent of D.C. There was a website the other day that had a picture of a guy's minivan with the license plate F Romo. Not even sure what I would get my vanity plate to say, they have no big name players aside from I guess Portis and license plates never have messages on them so I couldn't say anything tasteless about Sean Taylor's death so I'm stumped.

It should be a hard fought game, the Cowboys are going to have to "get it up" for the 3rd straight week because it essentially is a nationally televised game (95% of the country is seeing it) Thankfully after this game the Cowboys get a couple easier games because this type of atmosphere and intensity just has to wear out a team. But I think we should be able to get to QB Jason Campbell easier then the last 2 weeks since he is mainly a pocket QB (though you may not think that with him being a black QB, presumptive racist HA!) The key is to not let Clinton Portis get loose and Santanna Moss beat you deep which shouldn't be a problem as long as Terrence Newman or Adam Jones is matched up on him. Offensively I would love for the team to get Terrell Owens involved early since his production has been somewhat slow to start the season, I realize teams have been keying on him but I still want to keep him happy, I think he may have an easier time this year because Washington is tougher against the run then the pass.

Onto the picks, last week I was 8-8 and 4-0 vs. the over/under
So I'm 14-16-1 vs. the spread
6-0 vs. the over/under

Buffalo (-8) @ St. Louis
This could get ugly, the Rams replacing an immobile quarterback with a guy who last time was on a football field was knocked with a vicious knee to the helmet, does Trent Green owe people money? I fear for his safety, Bills

Atlanta @ Carolina (-7)
I'd like to see Atlanta prove they can play decently away from home, could see this game being within a touchdown but I'll take the Panthers, especially if Jake Delhomme can get time to throw.

Cleveland @ Cincinatti (-3.5)
I don't know what to think of this game, neither teams have been worth a damn this year, last year there first matchup was a old fashioned shootout where guys came outta the stands and were catching TD's, then the next game was a defensive standstill. Cincinatti because they're at home, this game's to hard to call though, you don't know what to expect from either team.

Washington @ Dallas (-11)
That's a mighty big line for Dallas even at home especially for a rivalry game. But because my chest is puffed out and I'm feeling real confident about my team I'll take them, over/under is 46 take the over.

Denver (-9.5) @ Kansas City
A home team normally gets 3 points for being the home team, that should show you how much the Chiefs suck. I'll take Denver and the over which is set at 47, though for some reason I can picture this game being low scoring.

Houston @ Jacksonville (-7)
Though the Texans normally play the Jaguars well this seems like the easiest game of the week to pick. Jaguars got some flash and flare back with that money drive last week by the Jags so take them, almost tempted to bet the under on that 42.5 too but will refrain.

San Francisco @ New Orleans (-5)
It's a nice story that San Fran is 2-1 but come on how is the spread only 5? The Saints are a real team in a halfway decent division, they don't have Marques Colston or Jeremy Shockey this week but they still have Brees and Bush and if Sean Payton lets him play more Robert Meachem can get some yards to (come on Sean, my WR core is in trouble) I feel like I'm picking the over/under to much but this has to offensive teams and it's only 48, how do you avoid that, especially since I have a perfect record (so far) might as well let it ride.

Arizona @ NY J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS (-1.5)
Make or break game for the Jets and should be a shootout if Mangini grows a pair and throws it early in the game instead of going with a conservative gameplan. It's a new-era of football people it's better to establish the pass and then run with the lead, not the other way around. Give me the Cardinals, probably be wrong in the end but they put up a good fight last week vs. a Washington team that is better. Staying 2 weeks away from home could hurt them though. This win could be huge for the Jets though, they have an absurdly easy schedule after next week's bye. And another game where I take the over on the over/under which is set at 45.

Philadelphia (-3) @ Chicago
Chicago's steaming after blowing there last 2 games and they get a hobbled Philadelphia team, could be just what they needed, will be a "tough hard nosed grind it out game where you show up with your lunch pail" Give me DA BEARS. The over/under is set at 40, just to be somewhat ballsy I'll take the under in this game.

San Diego (-7.5) @ Oakland
Oakland is improved but I'm still not convinced they can compete with the upper echelon of this division, I'll take San Diego. I'd also like for Jamarcus Russell's completion % improve, I understand having 0 competent WR's but still.

Green Bay @ Tampa Bay (-1)
I just don't like Gruden's Bucs a different type of team can show up any week and if they make the playoffs they are in all likelihood a one and done team, I like the Packers they got beat somewhat handily by the Cowboys last week but are still better then a team like the Bucs in my opinion.

Minnesota @ Tennessee (-3)
Another knock down drag it out contest that should feature an over/under of 14 punts between the 2 teams. This will be a joy to watch arguably the best defense in the league go against the beast known as Adrian Peterson, I'll guess he gets 80 yards and a touchdown but the Titans prevail, I would hate to be a quarterback in this game though, they are both mediocre and going against 2 of the best defensive fronts in the league.

Monday Night
Baltimore @ Pittsburgh (-5.5)
Another tough game, Ben has played well vs. the Ravens in the past but he's unhealthy, is without Willie Parker and just got absolutely murdered last Sunday, maybe Baltimore will take it easy on him but that defense looks as good as they have in a long time. I'll take Baltimore.

Until next week, where I'll probably be writing for myself. And I'll try to get my rangers season in review up too.

Looking ahead to week 3...And back to week 2

2008-09-20T12:42:00.000-07:00

What a crazy week this past Sunday and Monday in the NFL, teams still trying to find or establish there identity and what we think will come in the following weeks. The top of the NFC looks like for the first time in years it can hang with the cream of the crop in the AFC, a Brady-less Patriots team helps that a littlebut many people right now are claiming that Green Bay, Philly, Dallas and the Giants are all legit contenders for a ring. That doesn't even include the list of New Orleans, the hated Redskins and if they can ever get a healthy receiving core, the Seattle Seahawks. Not to mention that 3 of the league's 5 worst teams look to be in the AFC, the Chiefs, Bengals and Dolphins with the Rams and Lions representing the NFC. Right now the only 2 teams that have really established themselves as legit teams so far in the AFC is Pittsburgh, Buffalo and Denver (there offense anyways). And if not for last weeks referee screwup you could put the Chargers up here.

Which leads me to talk about the leagues biggest story from this past weekend, Ed "Hercules" Hochuli. A lawyer who referees NFL games as a part time job. The man is a saint and was born on Christmas, had he not picked such a sleazy job I'd say he might be the second coming. Now I'll admit I was furious with the mistake he made in the San Diego vs. Denver game last week, not because I'm a Chargers fan but because I hate to see any team win like that, you just don't like to see it happen and the Chargers got screwed. I was so distraught I thought about turning in my Ed Hochuli fan club card but for fear for myself and my family I thought otherwise. What I found was that the "Hawk" was clearly hurt and angry at himself for that, and why wouldn't he be, up until that play everyone thought he was perfect, now people are talking like he's a normal schmo. Well guess what people you are not, Ed is the type of guy that makes Chuck Norris shaking in his boots, with a holding call so devastating it's caused many a strong men to bow at his feet.

Just look at what happened when someone disagreed with him

Open up another page to see some more facts about one Ed Hochuli: http://timthefoolman.com/2005/12/25/ed-hochuli-the-facts/

I mean you always hear about a ref feeling bad for screwing up but this really did not sit well with Ed, maybe because he's the most well known NFL ref with his tight muscle shirts and massive guns and that's why he is getting so much publicity. But here's a quote from Hochuli actually taking blame for his actions (something I'm sure the NFL isn't happy about because most of the heads at these organizations are always wanting to keep the refs out of the limelight.) "I'm getting hundreds of e-mails -- hate mail -- but I'm responding to it all. People deserve a response. You can rest assured that nothing anyone can say can make me feel worse than I already feel about my mistake on the fumble play. You have no idea … Affecting the outcome of a game is a devastating feeling. Officials strive for perfection -- I failed miserably. Although it does no good to say it, I am very, very sorry."

Seriously what other referee (or player for that matter) would have the cajones to do this to Bill Belichick and the Patriots

I'm still mad at the outcome of the game, but Ed's a better man than all of us for owning up to his actions for what he knows was a big mistake and I respect him even more now, even if my team's owner Jerry Jones feels the complete opposite of me.

And now onto the Cowboys/Philadelphia game, wow that was one of the most intense and electrifying games I've seen in quite some time. The second quarter was just insane, the Cowboys go from celebrating a huge kickoff return from Felix Jones (and how big was he last week? he had 247 return yards, he was unbelievable constantly giving us big field position) then forcing a punt and us Cowboy fans were on top of the world...and it all came crashing down as Romo then escapes the blitz and throws a bad pass for an INT, followed by just a despicable pass interference call (by the way, these refs were bad for both teams) to set up a Brian Westbrook TD reception (which the Eagles got away with 2 holds on) Then the Isiah Stanback mishandles the kickoff and Tony Romo screws up not only on the handoff in the endzone but he tries to pull a Favre by picking up the ball to throw it out of the endzone. The end result was another Philly touchdown. But in the 1st half neither team could stop each other on offense. The Cowboys pass rush was mediocre at best, it could have been fine but when McNabb got pressured we could not wrap him up, DeMarcus Ware could have had 2 or 3 sacks but McNabb looked like his vintage self.

But the game was so high paced and fast I think that's part of why both defenses sucked, the Cowboys run defense was stellar and we actually did a fine job containing Brian Westbrook, finishing with just 103 total yards. But because the game was so hectic in the 1st half you had to know the game would slow down in the 1st half or else someone might have died. From the moment the 'Boys started there collapse I had thought for a while they were going to lose, sure they gave up just 7 points in the 2nd half but if not for Donovan's screw up in the 4th quarter when exchanging the hand off they probably would have held onto win the game. But then again I thought the Cowboys did a decent job on defense, more then anyone is giving them credit for. The pass rush was good in the 2nd half McNabb is just so big and elusive but we were getting to him. But the biggest problem of our team (and it's been a recurring theme the past 3 years) was the freakin penalties. How does a team accumulate so many penalties, particularly facemasks, how do you get 4 of them? That's one of the main reasons why the Cowboys normally beat themselves rather then get outplayed by the opponent.

Finally how dumb was Desean Jackson's mistake in the 2nd quarter? I don't know why the Cowboys didn't just pick up the ball but it appears like Hochuli on Sunday the official blew the whistle and made up his mind so the least they could have done was what they did, give the Eagles the ball at the 2 yard line. But still just a dumb mistake by a cocky SoB. It would been in line with Leon Lett's gaffe on Thanksgiving 15 years back or when Gus Frerotte gave himself a concussion after headbutting a wall. Kid should be benched and get a big time fine in my opinion.

A quick look at the rest of the games:

Washington surprised me, sort of, I said at the beginning of the year I can see any team in the NFC East winning the division and this is what I meant, the offense looked anemic opening night and overly conservative. Of course the Saints were hurting in the secondary by the end of the game but that is not much of an excuse for letting Santanna Moss get by your secondary near the end of the game. And an excellent throw by Jason Campbell too. Also great game for rookie Chris Horton forcing 3 turnovers and sealing the game picking off Drew Brees after a deflection.

I'm not surprised that the Pats won and that's all I'll say, didn't expect the Jets to be so conservative but I knew he'd stop Favre.

Justin Tuck is looking like the DPOY, granted he played the Rams this past week but he still had an INT return for a touchdown among other things, the guy just wreaks havoc in the backfield. I thought coming into this season was more important then Osi and he's proving that I think.

Nice resiliency shown by the veteran Colts coming back against the Vikings, they werent getting anything going until the 3rd quarter but the end to this game should give them some momentum when they play Jacksonville this Sunday (who desperately need a win)

Jay Cutler is looking more and more like a top tier QB that many expected he could be coming into this season. Phillip Rivers wasn't to shabby himself. By the way that swing pass to Darren Sproles that led to a 61 yard TD was amazing, the burst by Sproles is just electrifying to watch a guy that fast. He did the same thing vs. the Colts in the playoffs last year.

And now we'd like to take a brief timeout from the blog to bring you lame moments in white guy history. Sponsored by Kraft Mayonnaise:
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And we're back, here is how I did on picks this past week:
6-8-1 and the Houston/Baltimore was obviously cancelled due to Hurricane Ike. I'd almost like to not count the Denver/San Diego game but I won't. I may have missed on 8 games but I feel I predicted how a lot of the games would go. 2-0 vs. the over/under though.

Kansas City @ Atlanta (-5.5)
Kansas City had a big chance to get a win last week but instead they gave up 300 yards to Darren McFadden and the Oakland rushing attack last week, Atlanta already has 1 game with over 300 yards rushing, could they do it again? Hotlanta

Cleveland @ Baltimore (-2.5)
Baltimore may be rusty after not playing last week and Cleveland will be desparate for a win. This is a tough decision, can Cleveland's offense finally get going? It will be tough but I'll wait a little longer to start trusting Joe Flacco, Browns.

Oakland @ Buffalo (-9.5)
I liked Buffalo coming into this year but it's still a little weird seeing them favored by nearly 10 points even if it's vs. Oakland in your house. Maybe they're getting a little to much love to quick but I'll say they cover. By the way an easy money maker is to bet the over/under this week set at a paltry 36.5 Take the over especially if you think Buffalo is going to cover.

Tampa Bay @ Chicago (-3)
Could be an interesting game, a throwback game where you run it 3 times every possession and punt 19 times in the game. Should be a good defensive game. I guess I'll take Chicago since they're at home, let's hope they don't blow a big lead like last week. Plus it's there home opener.

New Orleans @ Denver (-5.5)
This is a tough game to decide on, both teams have amazing offenses even with Marques Colston missing this game, Brees could will this team to victory. I think this will be a shootout and it will surpass the over/under of 51. I'll just take the Broncos riding high after last week and Jay Cutler/Brandon Marshall have another big time game.

Jacksonville @ Indianapolis (-5)
Jacksonville needs this game, BAD. But there offensive line is in shambles which has led to bad performances by MoJo Drew and Fred Taylor which in turn has led to David Garrard struggling. It doesn't get any easier with Robert Mathis and Dwight Freeney both coming at you. This is always a knock down drag it out matchup with lots of big hits and it's normally a grind. But I'll say the Colts win this one and Manning finally posts his 1st big performance of the season.

Carolina @ Minnesota (-3.5)
It's a good thing that the Vikings finally benched Tarvaris Jackson, he was just simply awful, but it's not like Gus Frerotte is any better, the only thing he has over Jackson is that he's a veteran. I'd probably stay away from this game lot of elements going into this game, Steve Smith's 1st game, the Vikings desperate for a win, Adrian Peterson is questionable. Not to mention the Panthers have eeked out 2 wins, will there luck run out this week or can Jake Delhomme lead another comeback? I'll stick with Minnesota until I don't completely believe in them, but I would just not pick this game with real money

Miami @ New England (-12.5)
Hard to believe you would see a Patriot team favored by 12.5 points with out Tom Brady but when the Cardinals throw all over your pass defense the week before that will happen. I'm predicting a big week by Matt Cassel and hope the Patriots don't play so conservatively, really because I have Randy Moss on my fantasy team. Take the Patriots and the over/under is 36 if they win by more then 12 points I'd have to think the total score will be higher then 36.

Cincinatti @ Ny Giants (-13)
Until Cincinatti's offense shows up I'll take the Giants here, the Bengals have faced some tough defenses so far and it doesn't get any easier this week. Giants and the over (it's at 41) This seems like an easy week for over/under.

Pittsburgh @ Philadelphia (-3.5)
The possible game of the week, 2 of the top teams in the league and another game I'd stay away from. Pittsburgh has a tough defense and a good offense. But Philly has had a spectacular offense so far. I'll take Philadelphia because they're at home and will be not wanting to fall to 1-2. I expect the Eagles to blitz more this week, I'd stay away from this game though.

Detroit @ San Fran (-4)
I feel sorry for whoever will have to watch this game. Who'd have thought San Francisco would be favored in a game this year? This should be a shootout, I'll take the 49ers just because Detroit's defense has been historically bad so far.

St. Louis @ Seattle (-9.5)
Seattle shouldn't be favored by this much no matter how bad the Rams are, they simply have 0 depth offensively. Rams to cover, Seattle to win.

Houston @ Tennessee (-4.5)
Houston has a lot to prove after getting there ass handed to them week 1 and not playing last week. Take Tennessee in what could be a route.

Arizona @ Washington (-3)
Arizona's 1st real test against an actual defense should be an interesting one, they played last year at Washington and nearly pulled off the upset if not for a missed Neil Rackers FG as time expired. Both teams are riding high after last week, I'll take Washington because they went up against an offense which is better then the Cardinals and came out on top.

Dallas (-3) @ Green Bay
Some are saying this is Aaron Rodgers 1st real test, and he did play great against the Cowboys last year (though we had no gameplan against him either) For the Packers to win they need to control the clock and move the ball 1 first down at a time and when they get into the red zone get TD's instead of FG's. They also need a better performance from the rushing attack (I know Ryan Grant was hurt last week) For the Cowboys they need to be able to get in Aaron Rodgers face early and often and not make the secondary have to cover there man for 7 and 8 seconds. Also when they finally do get into Rodgers face they need to wrap him for the sack and not let him get away like McNabb did so many times last week. And finally the penalties are getting ridiculous by the Cowboys it needs to stop. I'll be a homer again this week and take the Cowboys.

Monday Night
NY Favre's @ San Diego Chargers (-8.5)
San Diego's defense hasn't looked spectacular but they are going to be pissed playing at home this week and fired up. The Jets need to drop the conservative crap too or Mangini will get run out of town, they can't afford to get behind the Bills and Patriots 2 games this early in the season. Unfortunately that is what will happen. Chargers get redemption for last week.

Until next week, where I'll probably be writing for myself again. I'll try and get it out a little quicker next week too.

NFL Week 1 and looking ahead to week 2

2008-09-11T23:38:00.000-07:00

Well like any year in the NFL week 1 is always the craziest and normally where most upsets occur, so if your team blew a big game or just got annihilated don't worry...yet. Normally it is to hard to tell how good a team will be until around week 4 or 5. Hell the Giants last year almost started off 0-3 until pulling off a great comeback on the road last year against the Redskins and holding them off on a goal line stand. So if you're a Jaguars or Seahawks fan it's not quite time to panic, you may just need to get healthy (what is Matt Hasselbeck going to do after losing his top 4 WR's?)

But let's get to the biggest story of the week obviously talking abot Tom Brady's season ending injury. You never want to see a team's best player go down, especially the 1st game of the season, and I say this as a fan who's teams odds just got a little better with the Brady injury. Do I feel sorry for the Patriots organization and there fans? Yes, even if I do think Bill Belichick is a giant jackass this type of thing sucks. The NFL is such a short season compared to any other sport, not saying just the amount of games but all the time between the Superbowl to training camp and the start of the season, it's just a giant waiting process and sometimes just feels like it will never get here. I just feel terrible for the players when these type of injuries happen, or like how the 1st play in the 1st practice this year in training camp Phillip Daniels, defensive end of the Washington Redskins tears his ACL and now his whole year is over and now he's got to wait to heal and have to deal with a bunch of rehab and repetition that he doesn't want to go through. The same thing happened to All-Pro Center LeCharles Bentley who signed with his hometown Cleveland Browns a couple seasons ago and gets hurt the 1st play of training camp and hasn't played a down since, though he is currently looking for work. These guys only play for a short time, especially the average to mediocre players because there is almost some guy who can do your job who is younger, quicker and cheaper then you are and to just see them have to sit around for a year of there life is depressing to think about (and I say this realzing most of these guys will make more money then I ever will).

I don't think it was a dirty play by Bernard Pollard but he certainly hit Brady in a sensitive area, somewhat similar to Carson Palmer's knee injury, I still don't think that Palmer has completely recovered from that injury, he just doesn't look as good or as promising as he once did. As for what I think Matt Cassel can do, it's tough to say, he's been in that system for awhile but I don't forsee spectacular things, if he can just move the chains and not screw up to much I think they have the defense to keep them in games. As a guy who finally took a WR early in the draft for about the 1st time ever I'm a bit worried about what Randy Moss will do, he caught a TD pass with 11:45 left in the 2nd quarter, at that point he had 6 catches with 116 yards and didn't get another reception the rest of the day. I think Welker's production will still be fine but Moss has a tendency to disappear at times from the offense and he may begin to pout if he can't get a capable QB to get him the ball. I think Sammy Morris and Laurence Maroney will get alot of touches this year, Patriot RB's are usually hard to rely on fantasy wise because Belichick likes to use several of them but a platoon of the running backs mentioned could put up some numbers.

Jason Whitlock is one of my favorite sports writers out there, I don't always read his stuff but evertime I come across an article of his I always think he brings up interesting and somewhat thought provoking points, especially on racial issues, here is his take on the Vince Young saga this week: http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/8550254

I'd also like to say thank you to Shawn Merriman for forgoing this season after 1 game and doing what's right for now and in your future, you'll be better off getting your surgery to repair your leg and will probabl come back next year as healthy as ever. You are only 24 and if the surgery heals probably you can possibly stick in this league for a dozen more years.

Other thoughts around the league:

My pick of Michael Turner is looking good through week 1, but lets wait and see what happens when he plays a legitimate defense against Tampa Bay this weekend.

Looks like I was wrong about Desean Jackson, figured he was to small and would be like Ted Ginn was like last year where he was primarily a return man, but as long as the Eagles top 2 WR's are hurt he will be getting an extensive look. Still curious how his body will hold up over an entire season, and if he is afraid of going over the middle.

Despite Desean Jackson's performance against the lowly Rams he still wasn't the best rookie WR, that goes to Eddie Royal, he torched Deagelo Hall all game, I thought Hall was overrated in Atlanta but could be a decent #2 CB opposite Nnamdi Asomugha but man he was terrible, not to mention getting 2 penalties on back to back plays. On a somewhat positive note the Raiders had a good running game early and if Jamarcus Russell can get some time in the pocket (and a good receiver) he has the makings of living up to his #1 pick status.

What a heartbreaker dropped by San Diego, on your home turf no less, I thought Jake Delhomme handled the final minute of that game poorly when he didn't call his final timeout with 25 seconds left and he didn't get a play off until 7 seconds left. But that pump fake that fooled the camera man then to find Dante Rosario in the endzone capped off a somewhat improbable upset especially without Steve Smith. I'm telling you that team plays different when Delhomme is healthy. And that was a good throw to, sure it went seemingly through 2 Charger defenders but it was smart to throw it up high to give his Tight end a shot at being the only one who could catch it.

Now onto my thoughts about the Dallas game, they looked fantastic, I can't remember the last time I saw our offensive line perform like that, Tony Romo wasn't forced to rush things even though Cleveland was sending quite a few blitzers in the 1st half. It appears for now that the line has recovered from the 4th quarter meltdown last playoffs. The entire offense played above expectations, and coming into this week I'm even more excited to see Felix Jones, the man has burst when he gets past the 1st level that is almost unmatched in this league. He gets a head of steam like Marion Barber. About the only 2 mistakes the offense made the entire day was a drop pass from the normally surehanded Jason Witten that just went through his hands. And then on Romo's INT, I think they wanted to give Terrell Owens a touchdown after just getting a big gain, and it was obvious Romo was going to him. He could have gotten it to Owens who had separation for a split second had Romo thrown it right when he received the ball but he hesitated briefly and made a poor decision. Thankfully they were in the lead by a comfortable margin. The offense however was once again getting to many penalties, from false starts to holding this type of thing has plagued us since Parcells was here and it's got to stop because it is just killing this team.

Defensively I think in the 1st half we were somewhat shaky but left our mark on Cleveland in the 2nd half completely shutting down both Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow. But in my opinion that Browns offense isn't right, right now, Donte Stallworth and Joe Jurevicius were both hurt and one of the top return man in the league Josh Cribbs also didn't play, they were also injured in the secondary but I doubt it would have slowed down our offense that much. But both Derek Anderson and Braylon Edwards look very very rusty, Edwards screwed his team over multiple times, dropping a would be TD (though they scored one later that drive) and several passes that would have resulted in some Browns 1st downs. But I'm happy with what I saw from the secondary, especially without Terrence Newman, I think he could have played in this game but due to our depth Wade didn't see it necessary.
Up front our pass rush could have been better but Anderson was on the run several times in the 2nd half and DeMarcus Ware was doubled and triple teammed the whole game and one of the few times he got single coverage against top T Joe Thomas he forced a fumble and was credited with a sack. But they weren't blitzing much and didn't have to. And also some people were wondering how Tank Johnson and Jay Ratliff would man the run defense and it was stellar, though it was up against an injured Jamal Lewis he didn't break free for any gigantic runs, and it's been mentioned by many Cowboy writers all camp about seeing a new Marcus Spears and he had a good game Sunday. He's always been very good against the run but is normally useless against the pass. One thing I would like to see improve is the Cowboys tackling technique, especially since this next week they'll be playing Brian Westbrook who is always tough to bring down. To many times this past Sunday did it take a couple times to take down a Browns player, it was also a problem in the pre-season.

Picks last week: 9-7, last week wasn't against the spread, what I want to to do as an experiment this year is try and see how I pick against the spread and straight up.

Picks:
Tennessee Titans @ Cincinnati Bengals (-1)
The Bengals struggled mightily on offense last week against a tough Ravens D, the Titans D is just as tough and features a better pass rush. Expect to see Carson Palmer on his back. Take the Titans.

Buffalo Bills @ Jacksonville Jaguars (-5.5)
The Jags are decimated with injuries on there offensive line which led to there pathetic offensive display against Tennessee. Buffalo is riding high after last week, I like both teams and this could be another low scoring game that's 13-10. Give me the Bills outright.

Oakland Raiders @ Kansas City Chiefs (-3.5)
This could be one of the few chances KC has to get a win this season, they won't spoil it, especially after nearly beating the Pats last week, they'll be riding high in the home opener. Chiefs

Indianapolis Colts (-2) @ Minnesota Vikings
Peyton Manning looked rusty last week, having an undrafted rookie Center doesn't help either, Manning could be running for his life in the pocket again this week. But so will Tarvaris Jackson and Peterson won't be running over Bob Sanders like he did Al Harris last week. Colts. By the way the over/under is at 43.5 I'd take the under

Chicago Bears @ Carolina Panthers (-3)
Both teams are riding high after surprising many (including myself) last week in some improbable upsets, I expect Jake Delhomme to run into some problems this week and missing Steve Smith will catch up to him, expect Matt Forte to build off a solid debut last week. Da Bears

Green Bay Packers (-3) @ Detroit Lions
Duh Duh Duh Da Duh Duh Duh GO PACK GO! Plain and simple, O/U is 45.5 expect Aaron Rodgers and Ryan Grant to do it big take the over.

NY Giants (-8.5) @ St. Louis Rams
I foresee the Rams surprsing some this game and Eli struggling, I think the Giants win the game in the end but by less then a touchdown.

New Orleans Saints @ Washington Redskins (even)
I can't believe this game is even, the only reason I can see is Colston will be hurt but that is not going to stop the Saints high powered offense, especially if new coach Jim Zorn puts out that excuse of an offense like he did last week vs. the Giants. Saints BIG

Atlanta Falcons @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-7)
I'm shocked the Bucs are a touchdown favorite, with Michael Turner and Jerius Norwood combining to run for over 300 yards and with John Gruden benching Jeff Garcia in favor of Brian Griese. This will be an interesting test for the Falcons ground game and could show if Michael Turner is legit, the run game needs to get going to not put any extra pressure on Matt Ryan. This is the type of game I see either being close the entire game or Gruden's Bucs will blow the Falcons out early and it won't even be the contest. I'll go with the former, take the Bucs to win, but the Falcons cover.

San Francisco 49ers @ Seattle Seahawks (-7)
The only reason the 49ers should be in this game is the Seahawks lack of WR's and lack of competent running backs (since Maurice Morris will also miss this game, enter Julius 'Suck' Jones) I'll still take the 'Hawks and predicting there defense has a huge day.

New England Patriots @ NY Jets (-1.5)
Belichick spoils Favre's home debut and reminds everyone why he is a genius. Pats

San Diego Chargers (-1.5) @ Denver Broncos
Can the Chargers recover from last weeks game or will Jay Cutler and the Broncos be able to build off of last weeks game? I say the Chargers get down early and stage a 2nd half comeback, Chargers.

Miami Dolphins @ Arizona Cardinals (-6.5)
Don't ask why but I see the Cardinals covering this and the Dolphins struggle, and once the Cardinals go 2-0 some will start to wonder whether or not they are a legit team.

Pittsburgh Steelers (-6) @ Cleveland Browns
Clevelands display last week was pathetic, while Pittsburgh was arguably the most impressive team last week, Pittsburgh normally plays great at Cleveland, take Pittsburgh, though Cleveland will come out looking noticeably better.

Monday night:
Baltimore Ravens @ Houston Texans (-4.5)
Can Houston overcome the "elements" of Hurricane Ike? Possibly, you'd like to think coming home after a big blowout will cause the team to play with a little more fire, now they have this hurricane can possibly fire up the team even more. Houston was pathetic in nearly every aspect last week. But the Ravens still have a rookie QB starting for them, take Houston.

Philadelphia Eagles @ Dallas Cowboys (-7)
Tough matchup, obvious game of the week and both teams will come out guns a blazing, there are now a couple questions on whether or not Terrence Newman will play (for the 2nd straight week) I think we'll need him to go up against a guy like Desean Jackson because I don't know how comfortable you are with him going up against Anthony Henry, Henry is great against the bigger physical corners but can't handle the speedsters, Newman can play against anyone. Adam Jones looked good last week aside from a Pass Interference penalty, he almost had a Pick 6 too. I'll predict he picks off McNabb once this Monday. And I'll also say the Cowboys cover the spread.

Until next time. Where I'll probably be writing to myself again.

Quick NFL Predictions

2008-09-06T23:57:00.000-07:00

Since I've been short on time and sort of neglecting doing a gigantic preview here are my predictions for the upcoming season:

NFC East:
1. Dallas Cowboys
2. Philadelphia Eagles
3. New York Giants
4. Washington Redskins

Going into this season I thought any of the 4 teams could win the division, still sort of do but my goodness Washington's offense is so pathetic, this past Thursday it was more conservative then a Joe Gibbs run offense, just watching it instantly made me put them 4th. And I have never seen such a non chalantly run 2 minute drill either, you are down 2 scores and you're acting like it's the middle of the 3rd quarter! Eli Manning also got lucky as hell that the Redskins DB's have hands of stones because they dropped several Interceptions. I think he's going to be the same inconsistent Eli and though everyone is saying now that Eli gets a free pass for now and maybe forever I see that changing sometime after the halfway point through the season. The 2 teams that really scare me as a Dallas fan are the Eagles and the Saints, for the Eagles it really depends on the health of McNabb and a couple other key guys, the Saints offensive fire power makes me fear them. Of course they could also prove that the Katrina year was all a fluke and just a wave of momentum that was a truly special year. Oh and the Cowboys special teams suck, really just there coverage teams.

NFC South
1. New Orleans Saints
2. Carolina Panthers
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
4. Atlanta Falcons

I could see the Bucs finishing from 1st to 4th, will be interesting given there tougher schedule this year, Gruden seems to do well every other year with this Bucs team. But I haven't been a fan of that team for awhile, 1st round fodder at best. I could see Atlanta surprising some and finish 3rd (or if the division is extremely weak 2nd) The Panthers success hinges on Jake Delhomme and whether or not Steve Smith feels like fighting for his team rather then with it. Also needs a rebounded year from Julius Peppers who's in a contract year and is looking for a big pay day after a disappointing season last year.

NFC North
1. Minnesota Vikings
2. Green Bay Packers
3. Detroit Lions
4. Chicago Bears

Picking who finishes 1st and 2nd in this division is extremely tough, as hard as picking the winner of the AFC North. Adrian Peterson needs to play the whole season to prove everyone he can go a full season injury free, something he hasn't done since his freshman year at Oklahoma. I think the Vikings defense convinces me to put them over the Packers, they got the best run stuffers in the league with Pat and Kevin Williams and what some may call the best one-on-one pass rusher in the league in Jared Allen. The Vikings have lacked a pass rusher for the longest time and now teams will struggle running and passing against them. I still think Tarvaris Jackson sucks but maybe newcomer Bernard Berrian will help (doubtful) Jackson just can't make mistakes and try and move the chains especially if the running tandem of Peterson/Chester Taylor gets shut down. As cliche as it sounds he needs to be a bus driver.
I think Aaron Rodgers will do a fine job in replacing Brett Favre this year and I think the Packers made the right decision in moving on with the future at QB. Of course my wishful thinking is praying that both Favre and Rodgers fail in there new roles and everyone is pissed at the end of the day. But that defensive line is in trouble trading DT Corey Williams and Johnny Jolly could be facing drug charges soon. I hope also that I don't eventually regret passing on Ryan Grant in my fantasy draft for Randy Moss. The Lions will be the Lions and halfway through this year we will all wonder for the thousandth time what kind of incriminating pictures does Matt Millen have of the Ford Family. Look for Calvin Johnson to live up to draft hype and see what rookie Kevin Smith can do. That defense will still suck though. And even if Chicago's defense returns to Superbowl form that offense will be abysmal and it is never a good thing to rely on points from your return man, I don't care how good Devin Hester you can't expect him to score for you every week. Also no one can really think he's going to work out as there #1 receiver either, right?

NFC West
1. Seattle Seahawks
2. Arizona Cardinals
3. St. Louis Rams
4. San Francisco 49ers

Easily the worst division in the league and what makes it even more fun is that the Patriots and the AFC East get to play them this year (HOORAY!!!) Seattle has this division locked up already, but you have to wonder with Bobby Engram out and DJ Hackett gone how much will Nate Burleson step up along with there lackluster ground game. There defense and home field advantage is top notch but it might have to carry them for the 1st half of the season. Expect Matt Hasselback to throw a ton. And to see Julius Jones mope and bitch on the sidelines, or running into the back of Walter Jones ass. I hate the 'Hawks though, that team catches so many breaks it's not even funny. It's a bit of a crapshoot for who will finish 2-4, no team is particularly strong in any category. The only reason I would give the 49ers to finish out of the cellar is because of new O-coordinator Mike Martz, but you have to wonder how will JT O'Sullivan do in his 1st chance to be a starting QB and who the hell he will be throwing to. Over the hill Isacc Bruce and 3rd WR and underachiever Bryant Johnson, this could also be an important year for Vernon Davis, here's to him staying healthy. Frank Gore should put up huge numbers this year but then again we all know how Martz forgets to run the ball from time to time, that may be the only successful thing this team will do this year, that and unleashing Patrick Willis upon the league. The Arizona Cardinals and Rams could both be fighting for the 6th playoff spot by years end, the Rams were massacred by injuries last year, to there entire offensive line (and there backups) Steven Jackson was hurt and Marc Bulger should not have been playing in over half the games with broken ribs. Interesting to see how #2 overall pick Chris Long will perform, personally I think it was a mistake to pass over Glenn Dorsey, even if they did have Adam Carriker. For the Cardinals, Kurt Warner will win some games with his arm, then lose some with his fumblitis and INT problems, then he'll probably get hurt for about a month somewhere in there too and it looks more and more like Matt Leinart is a bust.

A message to the Cardinals: Pay Anquan Boldin or trade him to DALLAS!

1. Dallas Cowboys
2. Nawlins
3. Seattle Seahawks
4. Minnesota Vikings
5. Philly Eagles
6. Green Bay Packers

not neccessarily in the order they'll finish, though I think Dallas will be the #1 seed if all goes well for them and the injury bug settles down.

AFC East
1. NE Patriots
2. Buffalo Bills
3. New York J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS!
4. Miami Dolphins

It would be beautiful to see the Dolphins beat Favre in his Jets debut tomorrow. Why do I think the Bills will finish ahead of the Jets? They were hit hard early on with season ending injuries to several key defensive players, missed Marshawn Lynch for a couple games, went over half the season with a rookie QB, Lee Evans massively underachieved and they were 2 last second field goals from finishing 9-7, oh and there best offensive player just ended a camp long holdout and is back with the team (OT Jason Peters is who I'm talking about) Sure the Jets improved in a ton of areas to and spent a crap load in free agency but I like what Dick Jauron is doing in Buffalo and if that city for once in it's history can get something to go their way they can make the playoffs. Vernon Gholston should be fun to watch as a Jet though. As for Miami, I think it is Bill Parcells goal to sign every player he can that he used to coach, no matter how old or crappy if you are available and he knows you, chances are you'll get a job.

AFC North
1. Pittsburgh Steelers
2. Cleveland Browns
3. Cincinatti Bengals
4. Baltimore Ravens

Pittsburgh's schedule is next to impossible, playing both the AFC South and NFC East in the same year (each conferences 2 toughest divisions) along with playing the other 2 1st place teams from the AFC (New England and the Chargers) But they are the Steelers and Big Ben is emerging as a top notch QB and he and WR Santonio Holmes are ready to take the next step. I just see Cleveland taking a bit of a step back, though they are going for it all this year and the next couple, they were very agressive on the trade front, not having a 1st 2nd or 3rd round pick in this years draft and giving up there 3rd rounder for next year too. They added Corey Williams, Donte Stallworth and Shaun Rogers who's great when motivated but at times seems seldom, but I think he has great size to be a nose tackle in the 3-4. But all in all I don't feel that great about there defense, Kamerion Wimbley needs to rebound from his sophmore slump to give this team a decent pass rush from the outside. Always reliable Joe Jurevicius will miss at least the 1st 6 weeks of the season and is up to Donte Stallworth to be the teams 3rd target behind phenom Braylon Edwards and the SOLDIER Kellen Winslow Jr. Cincinatti is in shambles and about the only thing keeping me from picking them last is the Ravens have a rookie coach and a rookie starting QB from a Division II school. Should still be fun to watch Carson Palmer, TJ whosyourmama and Chad Javon Ocho Cinco. I think rookie Keith Rivers will get enough tackles to make his stats look impressive to win defensive rookie of the year too.

AFC South
1. Jacksonville Jaguars
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. Tennessee Titans
4. Houston Texans

Why the Jags? I'm hoping the Jaguars agressive trading in the draft to get Derrick Harvey and Quentin Groves, maybe they will finally get the one thing that has hurt them over the years and that is a steady pass rush. Plus they always seem to play Indy well but hardly ever beat them, but the Colts will coast a bit this year and turn it on come playoff time, the Jags will be the team to beat in the regular season. And why are the Titans ahead of the Texans? Because the Texans are taking a bit of a step back this year due to secondary concerns I have with them and they have yet to establish pretty much any running game. Andre Johnson goes down this season, and they are in trouble (and it's almost a guarantee he will miss some time this year, just don't know when) Im not even convinced Vince Young will show big time improvement, I just really like Jeff Fischer and will hazard a guess that his team isn't finishing last this year despite having a lackluster quarterback with limited passing skills and limited receivers. No one ever said I had to have perfect logic.

AFC West
1. San Diego Chargers
2. Denver Broncos
3. Oakland Raiders
4. KC Chiefs

1st I would like to say Shawne Merriman is the dumbest player in the league, he holds this title until he shuts his season down for what will preserve his career and get him paid down the line, which I think is the sole reason he is still playing, he wants that big time extension from San Diego, but with that knee injury looming they aren't even going to let him bring up an extension. Regardless of that situation this team is head and shoulders above this division, Id say this or the NFC South is the 2nd worst division in football. If Brandon Marshall can get it together and stay out of trouble him and Jay Cutler can possibly lead that team to a wild card spot but I think that defense is fairly weak and they are divisional round fodder, one and done. I also would love if Mike Shannahan would come out and say Selvin Young is the starting RB and that's that, would be great for my fantasy team but that will never happen. For all the credit they get for the great backs coming out of Denver they've been very unstable since Clinton Portis left, sure the running system works but there haven't been any big time studs in the backfield like they were churning out every year 5 years ago. Oakland I can see surprising some folks, they have arguably the best secondary in the league and I hope Jamarcus Russell succeeds this year with him and Darren McFadden in the backfield. I'm almost willing to guess they start the year good but fade down the stretch causing hype going into next season as a "sleeper" As for KC, they had a great draft, best by far in the league but someone has to go here and they are the most probable selection. This is a make or break year for Brodie Croyle and pretty much everyone is leaning towards break they could be and probably will be one of the teams hunting for a future QB to pair with rising WR Dwayne Bowe in this upcoming draft.

1. New England Patriots (what an easy schedule, not there fault though)
2. San Diego Chargers
3. Jacksonvill Jags
4. Pittsburgh Steelers
5. Indy Colts
6. Buffalo Bills

MVP: Tom Brady
DPOY: DeMarcus Ware
OROY: Kevin Smith (or whichever rookie RB does best)
DROY: Keith Rivers
COY: Dick Jauron

I'm not going to give my playoff predictions for fear of jinxing my prediction (that should be a big time hint)

Are you ready for some football?

2008-09-04T16:03:00.001-07:00

Well the NFL season is officially started

I hope to get an NFL preview done but it's not happening til at least tomorrow.

One thing i would like to say before this game starts is I don't think the Giants are making the playoffs, I thought that this was happening before Osi Umenyiora went down, that injury just solidifies my prediction.

Another thing I hope to do is do football picks for everyweek, against the spread, right now I haven't looked at the spread for this week but here are my picks out right and not against the spread.

Washington Redskins @ New York Giants = 'skins
Detroit Lions @ Atlanta Falcons = falcons
Seattle Seahawks @ Buffalo Bills = seahawks (could see this as an upset)
New York Jets @ Miami Dolphins = ny jets
Kansas City Chiefs @ New England Patriots = patriots
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ New Orleans Saints = saints
St. Louis Rams @ Philadelphia Eagles = eagles
Houston Texans @ Pittsburgh Steelers = steelers
Jacksonville Jaguars @ Tennessee Titans = jaguars
Cincinnati Bengals @ Baltimore Ravens = bengals
Dallas Cowboys @ Cleveland Browns = cowboys
Carolina Panthers @ San Diego Chargers = chargers
Arizona Cardinals @ San Francisco 49ers = cardinals
Chicago Bears @ Indianapolis Colts = colts
Minnesota Vikings @ Green Bay Packers = vikings
Denver Broncos @ Oakland Raiders = broncos (could see an upset)

Cya later

The Olympics are over....

2008-08-25T00:26:00.000-07:00

And what a great 16 days it was! There really is no other events like the Olympics it really does bring the whole world together for 2 weeks and change and is always special. It makes you care to watch or see new sports that for 4 years you dont give a crap about until you see Bob Costas talking up the big name players in the event and hear that Olympic music blaring in the background (and it truly is some amazing music, one of my favorite sports theme songs. Which would be a good idea for a writing)

So many great moments and I'm positive that I missed some that I'm still learning about, mainly because NBC likes to keep the focus solely on Americans.

But I have realized that after watching the Olympics I like watching the sport of volleyball, but it's not ever covered over here, even though I would say the most entertaining women's sport to watch. But I watched the men's volleyball too, and this was probably the best showing US volleyball has ever had so maybe it will help it get more exposure on TV so I dont forget about it until London in 2012. There are also plenty of good looking women in volleyball of all ethnicities, I enjoyed getting to watch the Venezuelan indoor team vs. the US because they decided to wear bikini bottoms kind of like a beach team, some had some fantastic hineys! But that's not to say the US were without some, like Kim Glass. President Bush seemed to take quite a liking to Misti May

President Bush is one of the goofiest people I've ever seen and I have found the perfect comparison to him...Wade Phillips! These 2 guys are exactly alike, I'll blog on this later but trust me, they are very similar.

But seriously it was fun watching the women and men's beach volleyball tandems, sometimes I enjoy watching domination. About the most dominating performance I saw this past Olympics (save Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps) was watching Phil Dalhausser in the gold medal game vs. Brazil. Him and his partner won the 1st set and blew an early lead in the 2nd set and had seemingly lost momentum going into the 3rd and final game. The 3rd and final set is only played to 15, but no worries to the 6'8 Dalhausser, he killed! He had 9 blocks in the game and 6 of them came in the final set, Brazil was getting them past this monster early in the game hitting finesse shots in the right places, but then started losing composure early in the final set. And that's when Phil wasn't letting anything past him, they got out to a 9-1 lead and by that time Brazil knew what was up and the match was the US and so was the gold.

Big props to the US women's team and I guess the men's team though I paid no attention to them, nor would I have even if the Hamm brothers were healthy, still have to feel sorry for them though for working there ass off for 4 years (especially the body damage you can do being a gymnast) and then injuring yourself a month or 2 prior to the games. And for the 2nd straight Olympics a gymnast from Collin County has won the gold in All Around, 1st was Carly Patterson and now it's Nastia Liukin.

By the way, look here at Shawn Johnson, I simply can't believe that she is 16, she is adorable, I dont like to use the word cute but that's what she is, you just look at her and say to yourself, "AWWWWWWWW" a pedophile's wet dream, not to say all gymnast aren't. Most don't look grown up at all, though Nastia did and so did Alicia Sacramone.

And now onto Michael Phelps, him and his relay team presented 2 of my favorite sports moments of the year, 1st the relay, not only did the US swimmer make a near improbable comeback but he did it against the French, which probably made every American 2 times as happy. And the reaction from Phelps and his teammates were icing on the cake, I love seeing a guy like that win, but then to show that much emotion makes you want to cheer even more, which is 10 times better then a Kobe or Jordan normally being very reserved about everything. And then seeing Phelps barely pull out the 200 Individual Medley was just as cool, just seeing how close it actually was and seeing Phelps never give up, because without that final lunge he finishes 2nd and ties the Olympic record with 7 golds rather then 8 olympic golds that he eventually won. This guy is just a machine though, I just can't imagine how you can eat 10-12000 calories a day, and now that he's been doing it for so long how will he be able to get off those eating habits. I'd like to see him in some eating contests like trying to eat a 72 oz. steak, or I once saw that in Washington state there is this place that serves a 4 pound pancake, but no one could ever finish it.

And now onto the US men's basketball team, I'm not going to lie I kinda wanted to see them fail, why you ask? Sometimes I like seeing expectations not met. And to take a quote from Wilt Chamberlain, "Nobody roots for Goliath" Now you may be wondering why I would root for the top dogs like Michael Phelps or Misti May/Kerri Walsh but not the "Redeem Team" and the answer is, I'm not as invested in those sports nor do I follow them like I follow basketball so obviously I'm not familiar enough with the competition, plus there wasn't a real legitimate threat who would dethrone them anyways. There are just players on the US team that I don't like for various reasons and think it would be too funny to see them fail to meet expectations for the 2nd straight Olympics. My first choice would have been to see Dirk and ze Germans win gold but I knew that was farfetched, about the best they could have done is make it to the medal round, but they couldn't even beat China to do that. But the Gold Medal Game of the US vs. Spain was an amazing game and had it not been for Dwyane Wade in the 1st half and Kobe Bryant in the 4th quarter, they would have lost to this up and coming Spain team.

I think this could be the start of a nice rivalry of international play between these 2 teams. The Spaniards have the Gasol brothers, I still think Pau Gasol is a wuss and though he scored 21 points in the gold medal game, he missed a couple of bunny's, but his brother Marc, that is a specimen. He is so much bigger then his brother it's almost hard to believe they're related, I was skeptical on his ability in the pro's but I think he can come in next year for the Grizzlies and be a Luis Scola type player easily. And then Juan Carlos Navarro was breaking down the defense at will and penetrating into the lane, I still don't understand why he is heading back to Europe after having a good rookie season, especially since fellow Spaniard Marc will be joining him. And the 2 main reasons I think the Spanish will have a shot at beating the US maybe some day is Ricky Rubio and Rudy Fernandez, Rubio is only 17 and will be a top 10 and potentially top 3 pick next year. He's already great defensively and is improving offensively, he didn't shoot as much as I would have liked but did a nice job creating opportunities for his teammates. And he's a top player already in one of the best leagues in Europe.

And Rudy Fernandez was without a doubt the star of the game for Spain, and what's even scarier is he's going to be a Portland Trailblazer, if Greg Oden stays healthy and they can get a half decent PG this team could be looking at a dominant run, the possibilities are endless. They have a top 5 SG, a potential top C in the league defensively and we don't even know how good his offense is because he played his freshman year with his off hand. Then Lamarcus Aldridge is a top 10 PF and become an All Star once the likes of Dirk and Tim Duncan get older. And they have 3 quality small forwards also, with Fernandez, Martell Webster and Travis Outlaw, all excel in different facets of the game. And then they added freshman sensation from U. of Arizona Jerryd Bayless, he seems like a combo guard based on his college #'s but sometimes that is what a team like this needs. The only thing they really lack is a veteran presence but some may find that overrated. But back to Rudy, he's very versatile, he has the handles to play and/or guard the 1-3 positions, and he has a sweet shot w/some great hops. The dunk he had on Dwight Howard was sick.

I'd say the weakness to the US team this year was the inside game, Howard was limited and not that dominant and Chris Bosh isn't a C. I thought there lack of size would be there weakness, and if China had more talent around Yao they could give the US a run for there money, but they don't. But in 2012 I predict Greg Oden will provide a large interior presence to the US so there problems might be solved.

I also like the FIBA rules, it's a very entertaining game, not to mention quick, I'm curious if the NBA would become more popular if the NBA cut TV timeouts in half and reduced team called timeouts. It will never happen because ad revenue is part of what keeps the league going but if you watch a nationally televised game on TNT, it's going to last at minimum 2 hours and 45 minutes. The title game couldn't have lasted longer then 2 hours and change. You get in, you get out, you have a great time. But I think if the NBA adopted some of the International rules it could be better for the league. One thing I like is the physicality, though the refs were inconsistent, at times they'd be calling touch fouls then the next time down a player would get mauled and it'd be a no call. The things I hate though is the trapezoid lane, the 5 fouls (though if it's 10 minute quarters it makes sense) and the ball, that ball just seemed different, which is why the NBA scrapped plans when they switched to the international ball.

But overall I thouroughly enjoyed these games and can't wait 4 years when the Summer games in London.

Discipline

2008-08-15T00:57:00.001-07:00

So in about 6 hours I'm heading off to Stillwater where I will be an Oklahoma St. Cowboy. I'm excited yet a little nervous. This will be my 3rd college in the 3 years and like the other 2 I'm pissed off because I won't be able to for at least the 1st semester get to participate in my major of choice because of GPA requirements. For those that don't know I want my major to be radio/broadcast journalism. It's that last word 'Journalism' that pretty much makes it have a GPA requirement. And though it's not an out of this world requirement for a slacker like me it kind of is. I have a 2.32 and need a 2.5, it will go up slightly after my summer school classes.

And it was today when I went to turn in my final to my English teacher Mr. Yarbrough. Fantastic teacher, I only had him for 5 weeks but he's one of the 4 best teachers I've had in college. I think that partly speaks on his teaching abilities, but also on other teachers, part of the problem with college is the teachers don't do much teaching, just lecture after lecture and note taking. It's supposed to be an enhanced learning experience and thought provoking where the majority of the classes you take are the exact opposite.

But thats beside the point as I'm rambling again, I get back my 1st paper I wrote and see I made a 60 on it, that's the bad part, the good part is he says I have the potential to be a great writer and have a sort of poetic style in writing. The problem was it's sloppy and undisciplined, in other words it looks like something you started working on 2 hours before class, which I did. And that pretty much sums up my whole life, especially academically since around 5th grade. I have no disciplined, no real drive, especially when it comes to things I'm not interested. It's almost amazing that I have a GPA above 2 with the lack of work I do. Normally when a paper is due, I "start" on it 3 hours before, horse around the computer for about an hour to hour an d a half then whip something together in 20 minutes to an hour then turn it in. Sometimes it works, other times teachers can see through the bullshit.

Part of the problem is this stupid shit known as MLA format, why is it that every paper must be the same structure P.O.S? He says he used to be the same way but you have to figure out how to fix your mistakes and write like everyone else, no matter how annoying it is. So obviously not being very informed about the rules and writing a paper seemingly on the fly as I scramble for sources it will obviously look sloppy.

I just wonder what is wrong with me and why am I so unmotivated to try new things or to work my ass off? Obviously long term it will lead to good things but short term I'm just getting a grade and on the whole uninterested. I wonder if I need to try and get some adderall, some of my friends take it, it almost sounds like steroids for school, but it works for them. It'd probably just make me focus more intently on an article I'm reading or movie I'm watching.

What makes a person lazy and what makes him not want to try and go out and fix there laziness? Why do I lack discipline when it comes to school? And why am I so afraid to go out and try and meet new people? Why am I so damn scared?

How is it that a person can point out practically every flaw about himself and then not try and change them? Does my laziness help shape my personality? Does it make me funny or give me some sort of comedic timing when making a joke a witty comment?

I've hardly cracked a book since 10th grade, my grades haven't been stellar since about 7th grade, as my dad's told me a hundred times I just do the bare minimum, and I don't exactly understand why I'm perfectly content with it. Part of the reason is people are afraid to stand out or even ask a question in class, I'm part of that crowd mostly but I don't like being associated with that crowd for the most part. I don't want to stand out because I don't want people to have a real opportunity to judge me and be thought of as a douchebag, I'm so self-conscious about everything, almost always afraid of looking like a moron. Just last week I was going to a party and without even thinking I get in a car with a pair of stained jeans and a raggedy Dallas Mavericks t-shirt. This was mainly with a bunch of people I'd never met and even before I had opened the door I already felt like a moron. Why can't I let things go, I always re-think conversations thinking of how much of an idiot I must have sounded like just because of one dumb thing I said or did and making myself feel like a complete tool.

Even this thing I'm writing right now is undisciplined, when I go and re-read it it'll just be sloppy and take on all sorts of directions. I just hope something in me changes when I get to Stillwater, there's a 99% chance it won't happen, even if I have the opportunity to change it, I'm just not that type of guy, for christ sake I've had the same comforter since I was in kindergarten, I hate changing things, I hate trying new things and meeting new people. But look where that's got me, I'm unhappy and for the most part a loser, despite being a complete badass. As cocky as it sounds if you got to know me I'm sure you'd feel that way.

But it's time to get disciplined, wake up on time the first time my alarm goes off and not the 5th, finally open a damn book instead of paying 80 bucks a book to see them collect dust. It's a new year in Stillwater, GO COWBOYS!

Why I love sports

2008-07-01T21:56:00.000-07:00

I was watching the Rangers play the Yankees tonight, beaming with excitement that they just beat the Yankees the night before with not great offense but great pitching and hoping that they could bounce Joba Chamberlain early tonight after having him on the ropes early in the game. Normally I watch the games upstairs by myself because I can get a little worked up. But I went down to eat dinner and turn the game on and my mom asks the question, "How can you watch this everyday?"

Now I can understand a sane person who had a life with tons of friends or someone with a lot of responsibilities not watching just about every game he or she possibly can but I'm not every person. For the most part I keep to myself and spend my time chatting endlessly on forums when the Rangers, Mavericks or Cowboys aren't playing. And I'm a little unsure how my mom has put up with my dad and I watching sporting event after sporting event for the past 20 years. At the time I thought nothing of the question until it crept back into my mind after Rangers newcomer 1st baseman Chris Davis tagged 1st to end the game and the Rangers won there 2nd straight 1 run game vs. the Yankees in Yankee stadium.

Now the teams that I've followed in sports have given me a lot of heartbreak for various reasons, be it the Rangers constant failing, the Mavericks getting screwed in the finals or the Cowboys making mistakes costing them in the playoffs and prior to that just being plain incompetent from the time Jimmy Johnson left until Bill Parcells left. But then there are those moments where you get that little payoff or as a drug addict would say, that little "high" that keeps you coming back. It's so addicting and fulfilling that you just can't get enough, and given this youth movement the Rangers are having this season and the great success they are having with all the young guys I'm experiencing that high. The same goes for this past Cowboys regular season, the Rangers season in 2004 and the Mavericks playoff run in 2006.

And since the last 2 nights the Rangers have beaten the Yankees in Yankee stadium it's given me an extra kick and incentive to be so happy. I hate the Yankees, everything they stand for, from the overpaid players, the New York lore, the jackass of an owner (and his son) the bitchy fans and bandwagon fans that feel entitled because they're the Yankees (I'm sure people feel the same way about the Cowboys) and the constant attention they and the Red Sox get from ESPN. Not to mention that the Yankees usually kill the Rangers every time they meet and I was fully expecting to lose at least 2 of 3 if not get swept.

But when I see Scott Feldman who is a completely different pitcher this year as a starter then he was last year as a reliever (when I loathed him so much to the point that I wanted to release him) pitch 5 and 2/3 and hold the Yankees to 1 run and see the bullpen come in and completely shut down the Yankee offense, that's why I love sports. Especially after reading comments by Yankee fans thinking Scott's a bum or when NY sport show's just dismiss the Rangers altogether expecting a sweep in preparation for there 4 game series coming up vs. the Red Sox. But then also getting to see Chris Davis who has killed the ball at every level of his professional career bang an opposite field double off the wall for an RBI, that's why I love sport. That guy is a player and although he struckout a lot in the minors when he gets a hold of a ball WATCH OUT!

But then back to today's ballgame where the Rangers are clinging to a 1 run lead yet again after squandering a couple opportunities and Josh Rupe comes in and gets 2 quick outs. Then in typical Yankee fashion get a couple of soft hits that find holes and the Yankees tie up the game. Normally in year's past the Rangers would crumble like a cookie but Rupe didn't lose focus and got the 3rd out of the inning preventing further damage. Then after wasting a couple opportunities in the 7th and 8th innings the Rangers go to the top of the 9th facing the best reliever of all time Mariano Rivera who has only given up 3 runs all year coming into this game. So first guy up is Ian Kinsler and he gets his hands in fast enough to fight off the famous Rivera cutter and get a double down the line for his 4th time on base in the game. Did I mention prior to this AB Kinsler had 2 stolen bases, he couldn't seriously try and steal 3rd could he? Well Kinsler did just that so now there was a man on 3rd with no outs and your 3 best hitters coming up.

So the infield has to come in for Michael Young's at bat and the next pitch after Kinsler's stolen base MY hits a chopper over Rivera's head and past the outstretched arm of Wilson Betemit (Derek Jeter had the night off) So fast forward to the bottom of the inning: Enter CJ Wilson, the Rangers closer got a save the night before but has been shaky the past month, so what does he do to inspire confidence to all of us viewers back in Dallas? Walks a guy who's walked 1 time in 82 at bats this year on 4 pitches. Now that's a Ranger pitcher if I've ever seen one, but then something changed, he got ahead of Melky Cabrera and jammed him causing a groundball right to Michael Young who turned a double play. Then he got even more pumped up throwing a 98 MPH fastball (though I don't think it was actually that fast) to Johnny Damon and following it up with a 96 MPH fastball. So Damon get's down 1-2 and the best he can do is saw his bat in half for a little dribbler to Chris Davis for the final out giving the Rangers the 1st 2 games of the series and a chance for a sweep in the "House That Ruth Built".

Growth is what this season is all about for the Rangers, and the youth movement, every young player that has come up this year has contributed in one way or another. C/1st baseman Max Ramirez had a go ahead and what would turn out to be the game winning runs when he hit a towering HR off Roy Oswalt against Houston this past week. Eric Hurley went 5 and 2/3 to get his 1st major league win against the Philadelphia Phillies this past Sunday beating them 5-1, and Chris Davis also had his 2nd homerun in 2 games. I don't know if this team can contend or stay in the race but I know if they do it will be with the young guys mixed in with veterans, and if they aren't helping, the way the Rangers system is right now they'll replace you with someone who will.

I don't want this team to trade any of Vicente Padilla, Milton Bradley or Kevin Millwood unless I get an offer I can't refuse. Fewer and fewer teams are parting with Major league ready pitching but if they want either of these 3 guys they're going to have to pony up. Personally I want to resign Milton Bradley, he's been exactly what the Rangers need, a fiery spirit who's loud and wears his intensity on his uniform. I love guys like Michael Young and Johs Hamilton and CJ Wilson and how they play but you also need to mix it in with a few loud mouths who love to get after it and yell and scream. Plus I think Bradley can provide better protection for Josh Hamilton moreso then our young guys can right now. I also think in the offseason we will make a big move for a pitcher in the offseason whether it's by trade or free agency remains to be seen, but we know that Jon Daniels isn't afraid to pull the trigger on a deal.

Youth=Potential=New Hope which means that one day this team might be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel and fulfill there potential and we'll see the playoffs and hopefully World Series in Arlington. That is why I love sports.

Funniest man ever dies

2008-06-23T10:26:00.000-07:00

Normally I start my day every morning (or actually afternoon) by logging on to the internet and I usually just browse the headlines to see if anything piques my interest. And today before I checked my email I see one of my favorite people ever and arguably the funniest man ever died. For the people who don't know it's George Carlin, the man I've seen referred to in several articles this morning as a counterculture hero. Famous for his bits such as the 7 words you can't say on TV, differences between baseball and football and his rants on topics such as the soft language of today and religion.

He was 71 and performed just last week, he looked to be in better shape in his last HBO special then his one before that. He had a history of heart and drug problems (including cocaine in the 70's) and checked himself into rehab several years ago for prescription drugs. He died of heart failure.

He also was the 1st host of Saturday Night Live and Mad TV and was on the long time TV show Shining Time Station that was seen by millions of kids. He also starred in movies like Dogma, Bill and Ted, and Cars. He also had 23 comedy albums, 14 HBO specials (including one as recently as March) and 3 best selling books.

The thing that I respected him the most is that he always told it like it is, wasn't afraid of authority, as evidenced by his 7 words you can't say on TV bit that got him arrested in Milwaukee. And here it is for those who have never seen it:

And now that he's died he'll complete the Mt. Rushmore of comedians along with Richard Pryor, Lenny Bruce and Bill Hicks. The 1st 3 are shoe-ins maybe Hicks is up for debate but for social commentary Hicks is at the top of the list.

He had just completed his 50th year in comedy and was slated to receive the Mark Twain award in American humor in November. He had won 4 Grammy's and has been cited by numerous people as being a big influence in the comedy world.

He was always pushing the envelope, causing people to think and question themselves and society. And though it almost cost him in his early career proved to have been the best decision he ever made, playing sold out concert halls and plenty of other venues. Here's a snippet of George Carlin's views on how language has softened over the years:

The man was also a linguist, just evidenced by his poem "Modern Man" or baseball vs. football or the 7 words bit. He was also never afraid to give his opinion on society and the deterioration of man. "I don't have any beliefs or allegiances. I don't believe in this country, I don't believe in religion, or a god, and I don't believe in all these man-made institutional ideas," he once said in a 2001 interview. No one will ever come close to his variety either constantly reinventing himself and finding new ways to present material, you could literally watch his entire collection of standup and find very few similarities in his performances. But at the same time they were all structured perfectly timed and executed to present joke after joke that could leave you laughing for hours and hours. I'm just lucky to have had the privilege to see George back in November when visiting my friend in Missourri. I leave you with a couple more bits that I liked including one on baseball vs. football

Here are some other articles on Carlin's death:

AP article about George

http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/O/OBIT_GEORGE_CARLIN?SITE=TXDAM&TEMPLATE=ENTERTAINMENT_GL.html

Picture gallery chronicling Carlin

http://www.ew.com/ew/gallery/0,,20208391,00.html

Time article on George

http://www.time.com/time/arts/article/0,8599,1817192,00.html?cnn=yes

Interview with Larry King on Carlin

http://www.cnn.com/2008/SHOWBIZ/06/23/larryking.carlin/index.html

Lastly I just hope kids more my age can get to know and love George Carlin for what he was, a great comedian and person. It sickens me to know that some kids may think Dane Cook might be the funniest person they know when in truth he's a hack and a thief. But people these days seem to not give a damn about stuff like morals and values they just want a cheap laugh, and never giving some guy before there time a chance at all.

RIP George wherever the hell you are, I'll pray to Joe Pesci for you tonight.

Something that bothered me

2008-05-06T00:08:00.000-07:00

First off before I start I'd like to point out that I saw Harold and Kumar 2 tonight and that once again I had to see yet another grown man's dick, this is of course referring to the column 3 down from here if you think this blog may be worth my time.

Now then onto more important matters, the home page for my computer is Comcast and they always have these little news snippets or video's much like any other home page (Yahoo, MSN etc...) Sometimes if something piques my interest I'll read the article, this time I saw this video about Tom Hanks presidential endorsement. I think I clicked on the link just to annoy myself. And before you read this I'm sure it's been written about a hundred times before but it bothered me.

Now I do not hate Tom Hanks by any means, Forrest Gump makes me stop whatever show I'm watching and I focus on that movie until it's over. I just would like to slap (that's right slap) the person in the face and knee in the balls (I never understand why people say groin when we really know what u mean) who thought to themselves, hey people always bitch and complain about low voters turnouts how 'bout we get a celebrity (or 90) and let there opinion be heard, doesn't that sound like a neatto idea? It's the same contrived load of crap every single freakin time, "This is the most important election of your lives, blah blah blah I was in a movie where I took over the govt. we had a bunch of stunts and in the end I got the girl. It's up to you to make history, now where's my check?"

Here's the video by the way:

Now the thing I can actually respect about Tom Hanks is that he knows it's a crock what he's doing and pokes fun at himself by saying beware, celebrity endorsement and mocking how people's decisions have been made. But other celebs out there that take themselves way to seriously actively campaigning for Hillary or Barrack just sit back a minute and SHUT THE HELL UP! It's embarrassing to think there are people out there that one would actually vote based on who so and so prefers. I'm not saying there are thousands upon thousands thinking to themselves, well if the guy who did Forrest Gump and was an animated cowboy likes Barrack then by golly he's got my vote but there have to be some moronic teenagers to early twenty somethings who just watch MTV before they go whoring themselves out who are influenced by this stuff (I'm sure Tom Hanks isn't as good an example as someone else closer to there demographic.) But there's no doubt in my mind that if Oprah took her show on the road with Barack's tour from August to November (assuming he gets the Democratic nod) she could influence lonely housewives everywhere.

It just goes to show you how much people love celebrities no matter how much they bitch about them or want someone like Brittney to go away. And I'm not saying I'm innocent of it but I'm not always in the loop on her or Lyndsay Lohan or who got kicked off American Idol (I'd give a toe to make that show go away)I just think if anyone can't for one think for themselves or 2 be informed then he/she has no right to vote.

And since I could give a damn about politics I will not vote because I will not be following the election close enough to consider myself informed and because 1 vote does not make a difference, despite what people tell you.

Grading the mock drafts

2008-05-02T14:16:00.000-07:00

All right so now that the NFL draft is nearly a week old I have decided to take some of the top analysts when it comes to grading the NFL draft and we will see how they did guessing there mock drafts.

Here is the point system for every pick they get correct:
10 points for getting a pick correct
5 for being within 3 picks
2 points for being within 10 picks

And here are the mock drafts we will look at:
Rick Gossellin from the Dallas Morning News

Mel Kiper from ESPN (note: I couldn't find the official link to his mock draft so I googled it and I assume this was his final mock draft, as silly as it looks)

Mike Mayock from the NFL network

Scott Wright from nfldraftcountdown.com

Jeff Risdon from realgm.com

And here is how the the actual first round went like:
* means a trade occured

1. Miami Dolphins - Jake Long LT
2. St. Louis Rams - Chris Long DE
3. Atlanta Falcons - Matt Ryan QB
4. Oakland Raiders - Darren McFadden RB
5. Kansas City Chiefs - Glenn Dorsey DT
6. New York Jets - Vernon Gholston DE/OLB
7. New Orleans Saints* - Sedrick Ellis DT
8. Jacksonville Jaguars* - Derrick Harvey DE
9. Cincinatti Bengals - Keith Rivers OLB
10. New England Patriots* - Jerod Mayo ILB
11. Buffalo Bills - Leodis Mckelvin CB
12. Denver Broncos - Ryan Clady LT
13. Carolina Panthers - Johnathan Stewart RB
14. Chicago Bears - Chris Williams OT
15. Kansas City* - Branden Albert OG/OT
16. Arizona - Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie CB
17. Detroit Lions* - Gosder Cherilus OT
18. Baltimore Ravens* - Joe Flacco QB
19. Carolina Panthers* - Jeff Otah OT
20. Tampa Bay Buccanneers - Aqib Talib CB
21. Atlanta Falcons* - Sam Baker OT
22. Dallas Cowboys - Felix Jones RB
23. Pittsburgh Steelers - Rashard Mendenhall RB
24. Tennessee Titans - Chris Johnson RB
25. Dallas Cowboys* - Mike Jenkins CB
26. Houston Texans - Duane Brown OT
27. San Diego Chargers - Antoine Cason CB
28. Seattle Seahawks* - Lawrence Jackson DE
29. San Francisco - Kentwan Balmer DT
30. New York Jets* - Dustin Keller TE
31. New York Giants - Kenny Phillips FS

I think many of the people's mock drafts because of the amount of trades in the 1st round. Not to mention this draft had the most trades ever with 34
Here are all the trades that went down in the 1st round:

New Orleans Saints traded the 10th pick and there 3rd rounder to New England for the 7th pick and there 5th round pick

Jacksonville Jaguars trade the 26th pick 2 3rd round picks and there 4th round pick to the Baltimore Ravens for the 8th pick of the draft.

Kansas City Chiefs traded up from the 17th pick and there 3rd and 5th round picks in exchange for Detroits 15th pick and there 3rd round pick

Baltimore traded up from 26th overall and gave up there 2nd 3rd round pick and a 6th round pick for Houston's 1st round (18th overall)

The Panthers gave up there 1st round pick next year and there 2nd and 4th round pick for the Philadelphia Eagles 1st round pick (19th)

The Atlanta Falcons traded 2 2nd round picks (34th and 48th) and there 4th round pick for Washington's 1st round pick at 21 and there 3rd and 5th round picks

The Dallas Cowboys traded there 2nd 1st rounder (28th) and there 5th and 7th round pick to the Seahawks for the 25th pick

The New York Jets gave up there 2nd round pick and 4th round pick to the Green Bay Packers for the 30th pick overall.

And now to judge the mock drafters:

Rick Gosselin of the Dallas Morning News:
Correct picks - He got 9 picks (Jake and Chris Long, Darren McFadden, Vernon Gholston, Sedrick Ellis, Ryan Clady, Felix Jones, Kentwan Balmer and Dustin Keller)
I'm going to dock him 3 points each for when he correctly predicted the slot a player would be taken but when a trade occured (Like Ellis and Keller)
I'm also going to give him 8 points because in his mock draft he had Carolina taking Jeff Otah with there 1st pick, they ended up trading back into the 1st round and taking Otah.

Players taken within 3 picks - He got 6 of these (Glenn Dorsey, Derrick Harvey, Leodis Mckelvin, Branden Albert, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Aqib Talib)

Players within 10 picks - He got 7 (Matt Ryan, Chris Williams, Mike Jenkins, Johnathan Stewart, Gosder Cherilus, Keith Rivers and Rashard Mendenhall)

And his total points are: 136

Mel Kiper's mock draft (allegedly)

Correct picks - Surprisingly he got 9 picks despite him screwing with the top of the draft (Chris and Jake, Ellis, Rivers, Stewart, C. Williams, Jeff Otah, Aqib Talib, F. Jones)
I'm going to dock him 3 pts. each again for Ellis and Otah because he was picking for the slot not anticipating a trade.

Within 3 picks - He got 7 (Gholston, Dorsey, McFadden, Harvey, McKelvin, Branden Albert and Antoine Cason)

Within 10 picks - He got 7 (Ryan, Jerod Mayo, Mike Jenkins, Rashard Mendenhall, Clady, Rodgers-Cromartie, Kentwan Balmer)

Total Score is: 133

Kiper killed in the middle picks but was way to cute in the top 6 players, he was dumb for thinking Oakland would take anyone but McFadden (only other player they would have considered was Chris Long) He was also terrible in the last 9 picks, not even picking 1 player correctly.

Mike Mayock of NFL Network

Correct picks - He got 11 including 10 of the 1st 14 picks (He got the 1st 6 guys right and the rest he got right was Johnathan Stewart, Clady, C. Williams, McKelvin, F. Jones)
I'll also give him 8 points for giving the Saints Sedrick Ellis though they traded up for him.
I'll give him another 8 points for having Washington pick Devin Thomas because they did take him with there 1st pick.

Within 3 picks - He got 6 (Rivers, Derrick Harvey, Jeff Otah, Gosder Cherilus, K. Balmer and Antoine Cason)

Within 10 picks - He got 5 (J. Mayo, Mendenhall, Mike Jenkins, Dustin Keller, Albert)

Total Score: 166
This is a great score by Mayock but he also most likely has more resources then anyone else and I believe he published his later then anyone elses therefore was able to know and alter his mock draft having Atlanta take Matt Ryan over Glenn Dorsey thus making his draft a little easier.

Scott Wright from nfldraftcountdown.com

Correct Picks - 7 (Jake Long, Ryan, McFadden, Ellis, K. Rivers, J. Stewart and F. Jones)
I'm going to give him the full 10 points for Sedrick Ellis because he had the Saints not only taking him but trading up, he was just 1 spot off.
I'll give him 8 points for having the Cowboys take Felix Jones but in the wrong slot.
And I'll give 7 points for having the Jaguars take Quentin Groves because they did take him in the 2nd round.

Within 3 picks - 10 (Dorsey, Gholston, McKelvin, D. Harvey, Vernon Gholston, Albert, Otah, Clady, Aqib Talib, Duane Brown and Kenny Phillips) Wright was also off by 1 pick on 4 of these players

Within 10 picks - 7 (C. Long, J. Mayo, Mendenhall, K. Balmer, Gosder Cherilus, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Chris Williams)

Total Score: 139

He got to cute on his draft or else he could have scored even higher.

Jeff Risdon of realgm.com

Correct Picks - 7 (The Long Twins, Mcfadden, Clady, C. Williams, D. Rodgers-Cromartie and Felix Jones)

Within 3 picks - 10 (Dorsey, Gholston, Matt Ryan, Mckelvin, Sedrick Ellis, K. Rivers, J. Stewart, Jeff Otah, Mendenhall and Antoine Cason)

Within 10 picks - 5 (B. Albert, Sam Baker, Gosder Cherilus, Mike Jenkins and Derrick Harvey)

Total Score: 130, somebody had to finish last, though you weren't far behind

And the winner running away with the championship trophy is:
Mike Mayock - 166
Scott Wright - 139
Rick Gosselin - 136
Mel Kiper Jr. - 133
Jeff Risdon - 130

I'll chime in with my thoughts on the draft later, but for now this took a while.

Male genitalia is ruining movies!

2008-04-20T01:00:00.000-07:00

So I'm out tonight going to see Forgetting Sarah Marshall excited for the movie, and though I did enjoy the movie as Judd Apatow has struck comedic gold yet again. The one thing that bothered me though was that I had to see the star of the movie Jason Segel's dick about 5 times!

It was about a split second each time it was shown but it was something that was unexpected. You literally could have billed the cast as Jason Segel, Kristen Bell as Sarah Marshall, Mila Kunis, Bill Hader...and INTRODUCING Jason Segel's PENIS!!!

Just judging from the movies I've seen from 2007 to now here are the following movies that have had nudity: Grindhouse, Walk Hard, Into the Wild, the Heartbreak Kid, Knocked up, 300, The Simpsons Movie (albeit brief) and the aforementioned Forgetting Sarah Marshall.

What's the problem with this list? There's 8 movies up there with nudity in them and 4 of them have a scene where you see a dick in them (FGM, Into the Wild, Walk Hard for about a minute, and you get to see Bart Simpsons weiner) There should never be a 1:1 ratio for male to female nudity in the movies (and I'm not even counting when you see a hung over Seth Rogen's ass in Knocked up)

I'm by no means a homophobe but I'm sure most would agree that the male body is disgusting, particularly when staring at a shriveled up weiner that is attractive to NOBODY! And in FGM Walk Hard and Into the Wild that's all it is shriveled up weiner shown to depict the male body in its normal form, but it's not art it's repulsive!

But women's bodies on the other hand, they have gorgeous figures and there bodies aren't shown off near as much as they used to in movies (nudity wise). And I'm not even saying to show a boob or ass just to show it but they hardly even have any real passionate and intense love scenes in movies anymore. Atonement I'm sure had some scenes like that in there but that movie bored me for the most part (mind you i was half paying attention while focusing on a video game, it's not like I'm unable to appreciate movies like that)

The main reason Judd Apatow and his people added it in his movies (he was apart of FGM and Walk Hard) is for shock value, the same reason he and Seth Rogen wrote in the penis montage in the movie Superbad. I can understand it for shock value but show it once and get it over with, after that it just gets awkward and by the end of the scene it just got annoying. I do give them credit for not just using shock value but making it funny but at what point does it become stale and overplayed?

Judd Apatow on one movie website said he will try to get a penis in every one of his movies, and the last 2 he's came out with he's yet to disappoint, so look out for when the Pineapple Express comes out James Franco and/or Seth Rogen's penis's are comin' to a theatre near you.

He also jokingly added this in the inerview he gave (that can be read here: http://www.movieweb.com/news/10/27310.php ) "That will be my Oscar montage. When I am seventy, and I get an Oscar for my humanitarian work, my on-screen montage will be a clip reel featuring all of the different parts of the human body that I wasn't afraid to show."

One last snippet from the interview that Apatow said, "I think it is funny that anybody is embarrassed by anything having to do with the naked human body. It just really makes me laugh. These are such conservative times. That Janet Jackson showing her nipple made people flip out is crazy to me. Like anybody would be emotionally crippled by the sight of a nipple. When we make these movies, if it is appropriate, it really makes me laugh to go far in that direction. It is my personal flipping of the bird to that type of fear and shame. We shouldn't be afraid of the human form."

And to this I completely agree, this nation as a whole has always been interested in sex because to us it will always be taboo. But sex sells and good looks can get you far especially in the entertainment industry but when a situation like a Janet Jackson incident happens or someone says something inappopriate we almost seem to lose the right of free speech we revert back to conservatism and everything is blown way out proportion like the Imus situation. And as for Janet we didn't even see her nipple. And that one nipple changed FCC regulations forever and ruined Howard Stern's career on regular radio, it's not like he just sprung up overnight he'd been doing the same schtick for over 25 years.

So to wrap this up it's time to put a stop to penises in movies unless it's guaranteed comedic gold because we all know boobs are a million times better then weiners. And as we are getting rid of the male genitalia it's time to start a movement to bring back more female nudity because a beautiful female that wasn't afraid to show off her body never hurt anybody (unless you got a case of blue balls)

Springsteen live!...

2008-04-14T23:24:00.000-07:00

Well this past Sunday I had the privilege of working at the Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band concert, I was excited and hoping to be amazed. What I got was a decent show, but when I think about it, it's what I should have expected given I didn't know hardly any of his songs and have a hard time understanding half the time they're singing there songs, especially Springsteen. Half the entertainment I got was from the people at the concert and observing them and there actions.

The setup for the concert was a basic stage with each band member (there were 9 in all, including Bruce) having there own little section to perform and the seats on the floor were general admission, 1st come 1st serve standing room only. There were also large video screens on both side of the stage for the people farther away. I think one of the best jobs I saw (even better then mine where I get paid to usher at concerts, Mavs and Stars games) was every song Bruce would switch guitars and he had a guy hand him a different one switching between like 3 different guitars, I'm sure he does something else but that guy has got it made. He probably gets laid just because he strums on Bruce's guitar strings (if you get my drift)

One thing I have to give credit to Bruce is he pours his soul into these performances, he brings so much energy and passion to his show and I think that's what most people like, that and the fact that he doesn't always stick to his set list and performs songs from his whole catalogue and not just the hits. Sure he did play Born to Run and his latest track that had some radio succes 'Radio Nowhere' but he didn't play Born in the USA which I thought he'd close with that or Born to Run. Instead he ended the show with this Irish type song that was meant to be an homage to the Irish punk band the Pogues called 'American Land' That was probably my favorite song of the night aside from when he played Born to Run and Radio Nowhere.

There were things that did bother me though or that I noticed, I don't think the entire time Bruce was singing his eyes were open, I can understand it especially when he's singing a slow song but I swear his eyes weren't open the whole show. Also on the video screen I think the people working the video boards were afraid to cut away from Bruce, if Bruce was singing they'd show saxophonist Clarence Clemons or drummer Max Weinberg (yes from the Conan O'brien show) for a couple seconds but right when they'd show them they'd go right back to Bruce. And I know Bruce isn't egotistical so I don't know what was up with that but I'd like to see the rest of the band perform for more then a split second. And then there was the issue I had with Bruce and lead guitarist Steve Van Zandt sharing the same microphone everytime they had to sing together when he had a perfectly good one for himself. It was just odd with Bruce practically making out with the mic and Steve looking to get in on that action.

I think the funniest part of the night was when they were finishing up a song and he's sweating and appears to be out of breath and belts out this lameass speech how this country needs a change from the past 8 years. He sounded like he was pouring his heart out, looking down at the ground looking like maybe a tear could fall from his face as he was almost at a loss of words and overcome with emotion. During the speech it was pitch black in the arena with a blue spotlight on Bruce which only made it better. Perhaps you had to hear it but I found it laughable despite how serious he was about it (I'm by no means a Bush supporter I couldnt careless, but find it funny when people go on a political speech like this and it sounds like this) But I should've expected this after just reading his Wikipedia.

Working at concerts like this or Van Halen I've noticed that any and all people are welcome to old school type bands who have been around for the past 25-35 years. I saw guys who had tatoos all over there necks with hair spiked half a foot in the air and then I saw 8 year olds trying to get a grasp on the music that there parents loved and grew up with. This wasn't as white trash as Van Halen and more upscale. What I think everyone that goes to concerts can agree on is the absurdity of the souvenir prices, I expect them to be completely overpriced but Springsteen's prices were the worst of the bunch, I think the cheapest was $35 and they had one t-shirt priced at 90 freaking dollars, simply because it was from a tour in 1992-93, what kind of reasoning is that? Of course you can find the majority of these shirts online for a helluva lot cheaper.

Back to my thoughts on the people there, the thing that pissed me off the most was this group of 10 year old girls who were all dressed up with makeup and short miniskirts and even one had a strapless shirt on. They truly looked like whores in training (you could use the term groupies, but whores is much more truthful) perhaps I sound like an old man but I couldn't imagine letting my daughter go out like that, let alone one that's not even in middle school. And then maybe the worst part of it was they had front row seats and got to go on stage for a song with Bruce, what a load of crap. It's bad enough they had to goto a concert looking like a bunch of sluts but then they get rewarded for it? That shouldn't happen til at least there early 20's where they suck the life out of some rich guy (*laugh track*)

I also saw this mother/daughter combo going to there seats, they looked exactly alike except the mom was probably 25 years older and fatter and I'm sure was more "seasoned" The daughter was good looking but what I hate when I see girls today is these fake tans that leave the girls looking orange and when they look like they're wearing 3 pounds of makeup. I'm not suggesting that you have to wear no makeup (though if you can pull it off, do it) but it just looks unattractive when there is a huge glare or shine on your forehead from all the makeup you wear. The mom looked the exact same as her though (another example of whores in training, we'll call it WHIT. Having the abreviation WIT would be to complimentary, as they don't have a shred of wit in there body)

The best story I heard from another usher at last night's concert was these 2 women were wanting sit closer then where there seats were located, the guy was skeptical at first until he said the lady took his face and shoved it in her boobs for a couple seconds. Lo and behold, she got closer seats, aren't boobs wonderful. Not sure how I'd react to that, for one I'd be so overcome with joy that'd I'd space out for a second and try and let that moment sink in, and then scramble to find them some closer seats. What would you do if you couldn't find any open seats though (my section was full all night, even the last rows in the house) I'd probably look at the women dumbfounded saying "Der, uhh sorry m'am but I can't find any open seats" And then there'd be an awkward pause where she realizes that I got a free show for nothing before I ask for another motorboat.

But it's just fun watching how people react to the music they're hearing, you'll see some people who just sit there the whole time just letting it sink in then some people feel the need to stand the whole time and really shake every limb in there body as they attempt to maintain some sort of rhythm. It was fun looking at some people that had floor seats, people on the outside particularly with room to move, there was this one woman who was going crazy and felt the need to keep spinning and twirling with her friend to every song. Then the reaction when Bruce decided to play his favorite song was as if he just won the Superbowl as he gives this huge fist pump and does some punches in the air.

I wonder if Bruce ever hates his name, because having a name like Bruce means if you're a star player or rockstar they chant Bruuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuce everywhere you go. I think it'd be cool to have something like that, like Darryl "Moose" Johnston would get that chant every time he touched the ball or Luke Walton for the Lakers. I wonder if Bruce was ever just booed loudly and he didnt pick up on it because of his name. Like one night it was real brutal and the band was a note behind and real worn out and the energy just wasnt there and the crowds just laying it on them but in his mind he's like, "Man these guys really love me"

All in all it was a good night, since I worked there I had to keep watching for people with cameras because the building felt like that was going to be the thing to harp on tonight. Thankfully I didn't have a problem with that or people coming up to me about people smoking. It's a freaking concert, you should embrace the smoke whether or not it's indoors. But I'd suggest to know some of his music beforehand to really enjoy it. Plus it might be easier to understand what the hell he was saying.

Rangers offseason

2008-04-01T23:19:00.000-07:00

Well 2 days into the new baseball season for the Rangers I guess it's time to write up my thoughts on the Rangers offseason review.

Overall I think they had a good off season, there weren't many big time free agents and Jon Daniels signed a bunch of low risk contracts where if they sucked or were a problem it was no big deal because they were only going to be here for a year or less. The team didn't go out and overpay for Torii Hunter which I was fine with and I think Josh Hamilton will be a better centerfielder then him anyways. There weren't any standout pitchers that were free agents, the only huge contract for a starting pitcher I saw was Carlos Silva getting 48 million over 4 years from the Mariners. I think he'll be a decent fit in that ballpark.

Additions:

Josh Hamilton, Milton Bradley, Jason Jennings, Ben Broussard, Eddie Guardado, Kazuo Fukumori, Dustin Nippert and Kevin Mench (currently in AAA). Recently released John Patterson was picked up by the Rangers but right now all plans point to him rehabbing and if healthy could help the rotation.

Losses: Edinson Volquez, Brad Wilkerson, Sammy Sosa, Jerry Hairston and it looks like the club will loseRobinson Tejeda soon since he was designated for assignment. If they aren't claimed or traded then he'll likely be forced back to AAA.

Perhaps the best news of the off season was that A-Rod opting out of his current deal let Texas off the hook for 21 million dollars that would've been owed to Rodriguez. Perhaps we'll spend it when a worthwhile free agent comes around here (unlike Torii Hunter which we stupidly offered $15 million per year over 5 years, thankfully the Angels were dumber and gave him 18 per year)

To continue on my Torii Hunter diatribe, I hope he ends up being a complete bust (which he most likely will as he gets older) He resides in Dallas and he gave some lameass answer that he didn't want to sign with the Rangers because his son said kids at his school would make fun of him for his dad being a Ranger. Torii your son sounds like a huge pansy with no self esteem or friends, though he's probably set for life with your money. He's also probably gay and wets himself, when he comes out you will not know how to handle it and most likely abandon him. It's ok better that he didn't sign with us because he doesn't get on base enough and his power and defense will only get worse and worse and this signing might end up being dumber then the Gary Matthews Jr. signing from the year before. It's weird how the Angels could be such a well run organization and the make 2 moronic signings 2 straight years from guys who play the same position. I don't get why they held on to all these stud prospects they had when they aren't going to see the field behind older vets like Garrett Anderson or Darrin Erstad (I'm aware he's no longer with them)

But this is the 2nd straight year the Rangers have tried to sign a guy for huge money who is merely an abover average player. And while I do love Jon Daniels and the direction he's going with the franchise I'm a little concerned that he and Tom Hicks have tried to sign Hunter and Barry Zito to long term deals when there best years are in there rearview mirror. Hunter I can sort of understand since he lives in the metroplex but Zito isn't an ace type pitcher but a #2 or #3 on a contender, and those type of pitchers never ever deserve a contract longer then 4 years (Just ask the teams that signed Mike Hampton, Denny Neagle, *gulp* Chan Ho Park and Darren Dreifort)

The next thing I want to get to is the Josh Hamilton trade. This trade could become the trade that makes or breaks Jon Daniels and could possibly cost him his job. We traded Chris Young and Adrian Gonzalez for what turned out to be a bust in Adam Eaton. But I will never back down from my belief that Young would be this good in Texas, that park in San Diego does wonder for a pitcher, especially a fly ball pitcher like Young.

Then there's the John Danks and Nick Masset for Brandon McCarthy trade. A trade I was in favor with at the time but McCarthy can never stay healthy and won't be back with the team until May 29th AT THE EARLIEST! Some people are wearing thin on Daniels unloading homegrown guys for others peoples property. Mainly the morons like Randy Galloway who is all shtick and no substance and just looks on the surface, why Daniels still talks to him after calling him publicly to be fired I have no idea, just shows the kind of stand up guy he is and isn't afraid of media pressure unlike our last GM who lived in a cave when he wasn't playing at Dallas's finest golf courses.

Anways I think the Edinson Volquez for Josh Hamilton trade could work out for both parties. As bad as the Rangers pitching woes are perceived to be, we've never had a consistently great centerfielder. Gary Matthews Jr. 2006 season might have been the Rangers best season of the last 30 years at centerfield. But Hamilton for the time being will change things. The guy coming out of high school was projected to be the next Griffey or ARod and what it sounds like, he could have been them, he can hit for average and power, take a walk, has a cannon is fast and can cover all sorts of ground in the outfield, a prototypical outfield in the Mickey Mantle mold. And now that he's done doing crack or cocaine he's ready to start living up to his potential. He flashed some of it last year and there's no reason to think he won't get better, the only thing slowing him down will be injuries. As for Volquez as long as his control is good and he can keep his walks down and flyballs (because the Reds ballpark is also an extreme hitters park) he can seriously be a legit ace and I'm not exaggerating his changeup is absolutely filthy just like Pedro Martinez (which is why he was given the nickname little Pedro some years back because of the devastating changeup.)

I've watched 5 games of Josh Hamilton and have already fallen in love with his game, and normally I hate seeing opposing teams win trades with the Rangers but I wouldn't care if both of these players turning into stars.

My 2nd favorite move of the off season is the signing of Milton Bradley, this guy has won and succeeded wherever he's gone, a good defensive outfielder who has a good On base percentage and has good pop in his bat. His problem is his temper obviously and his inability to stay healthy, only playing more then 100 games twice and 96 games or more 4 times and one of the times of over 100 games was just 101 games. He's been around Ron Washington before and if it works out this year I'd really like to resign him even if we do suck this year he'd be a piece I'd keep and build with. The last couple years I've really been impressed with his ability to work the count and take walks, the last 5 years he's had an OBP or .402, .370, .352, .370 and .362. Of the Rangers with at least 275 AB's last year only Ian Kinsler, Michael Young, Marlon Byrd, Kenny Lofton and Mark Teixeira had higher then a .350 OBP (and the last 2 were traded)

As for the rest of the acquisitions:

Ben Broussard - He's just warming up the seat for future 1st baseman Chris Davis who's currently in AA and looks to be possibly promoted to triple A soon if he continues his tear from last year. Decent signing if the Rangers think Davis is ready around the trade deadline they might trade this guy for a decent prospect. Has looked OK on offense with 2 Hr's including a Grand Slam today. The better Ron Washington finds out he can't hit left handers the better, he looked awful on Opening Day.

Kazuo Fukumori - was perfect all spring and had a shaky debut with 2 "wild pitches" but they both looked like catcher Gerald Laird could've done a better job at blocking the balls. Looked to be in much better control tonight vs. the Angels, but he was pitching with a 6-0 lead, I want to be able to count on this guy in pressure situations and once he gets situated I think we will.

"Everyday" Eddie Guardado - maybe making Eddie pitch everday wasn't such a good idea because it nearly killed his career. He's 37 and he'll be the lefty out of the bullpen and setup man with Joaquin Benoit. Nice cheap signing and if we're out of it and he's succeeding in the bullpen we'll be able to receive a pretty decent package for him because relievers are always at there peak value near the trade deadline.

While we're on the subject of trading relievers I love the Eric Gagne trade more everyday. David Murphy looks better and better everytime I see him and has some real gap power and Gabbard shutout the Angels for 7 innings tonight. And if 17 year old CF Engel Beltre blossoms into what one scout said possibly the next Griffey this could be one of the most one sided trade of the last 10 years.

Jason Jennings - The Astros sure did sell the farm last year to bring this Baylor product back to Texas and boy did he flop. He was hurt all year and tried to pitch through it and it didn't work. Now again another cheap signing by Jon Daniels that can't hurt us because if he flops it's only 1 year so theres no loss. He looked OK from the little I saw Wednesday, he just made 2 mistakes, and they resulted in a solo and 3 run homer. Again could be trade bait or if he works out may resign with us for cheap since he is a Mesquite product.

Dustin Nippert - He was gonna be waived by the DBacks and we gave up a piece of crap for him, no biggie if he sucks Robinson Tejeda was in the same situation. After seeing him pitch tonight, unless he gains confidence overnight I'd rather see Scott Feldman pitch and that's saying alot because I hate Scott Feldman. He came in with an 11-0 lead and couldn't get 3 outs to close the game. The Rangers caught the ball on the warning track to win 11-6 (The homerun would have made it 11-9)

Couple other thoughts from the 1st 4 games and mainly some gripes from the 1st 2 games. This team needs to fix it's infield defense and fast, 4 errors by Michael Young and Ian Kinsler and 3 wild pitches that partly cost us the game on Opening day and nearly cost us the next day had it not been for Josh Hamilton's heroics in the 9th inning off JJ Putz. Did I mention I love the guy? He made 2 fantastic defensive plays in Seattle including running down a ball that probably about 3 other guys in the league could run down.

One has to wonder when the Rangers starting rotation will start to let up but so far the look damn impressive.

I'm going to guess a .500 year for this club and that will hopefull be progress, no one expect this team to contend and with the Angels sudden injuries and the Mariners lack of offense there's a slim shot we make the playoffs if nearly everything goes right for us. But I'm just looking for development of young talent in the minors, seeing guys like Ian Kinsler and Josh Hamilton take the next step and establish themselves as top players at there positions and maybe see Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Eric Hurley and Chris Davis come up sometime after the All Star break and hold there own against major leaguers.

Sports Depression Moment 13098

2008-03-24T10:45:00.000-07:00

Sunday afternoon a hard fought game vs. the Spurs and Ime Udoka is on a fast break as Dirk is chasing him down. He blocks the shot and then season over. His knee just sort of buckles as it goes away from his body. He just laid there motionless and you knew from the second it happened it was bad. The crowd just laid there motionless, you could hear a pin drop as everyone in the building even the Spurs fans just sat there sort of in a state of shock.

It was pretty obvious who was going to win that game from there on out, the Mavs had blown a 12 point lead thanks Avery's "stellar offense" and then Dirk goes down.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3309429

The above was written on Monday the day after the Dirk injury, it's now Friday because I always get lazy to write these things.

Anyways I'm still unsure on if the Mavericks will make the playoffs or if I even want them too. If we miss the playoffs we get a 1st round pick since the one we traded this year is lottery protected and there is some real talent this year that could fall to our pick. On the other hand the amount of close games the Mavericks have played against top teams makes me think they can hang with any team in the league, maybe not win but give some teams some real problems and go to 6 or 7 games.

All I can say is I think it's almost safe to say that the Jason Kidd trade was a failure, there's only 2 reasons it could be considered a good trade, Erick Dampier and Dirk Nowitzki. Dampier is playing the best basketball of his Maverick career (maybe entire career) and has taken advantage of the extended playing time and has done a good job staying out of foul trouble, he's looked real motivated. As for Dirk, he looked like he's in another zone since the trade, he was still playing top basketball for the most part prior to the Kidd trade but his field goal and 3 pt. % have raised as has his Points per game. And then you see the intensity in his eyes it reminds me of when he carried the Mavs to the Finals 2 seasons ago.

The problem is just about everything else has made the trade look like a failure. I thought it was a panic trade from the time it was made just because the Mavs had lost 4 of 5, all without Devin Harris and they were really just reacting to the Shaq and Pau Gasol trades. Jason Kidd and Avery Johnson's styles of play are polar opposites, Jason Kidd is best used when in transition where Avery loves to play isolation with Dirk, Josh Howard and Jerry Stackhouse. And of course I have to mention not beatin a team over .500 since February 13th. And then there's the 2 1st rounders we gave up (It's weird how everyone thought it was crazy to make this years pick lottery protected and the 2010 pick unprotected but now it's looking like a half decent move, but what if we decided to rebuild? That pick could set us back assuming we blew it up.) This team would have been so much better off trying to find a decent 2 guard like Mike Miller or Corey Maggette then they ever would have been trading for Kidd if you ask me.

I always wonder why I hear experts say we didn't have a chance to win a title this year so the Kidd trade wasn't bad at the time. I wonder how many of these "experts" knew that we were 28-11 when Devin Harris was in the lineup.

I'm going to guess as of right now we aren't going to make the playoffs, it really just depends on if Dirk comes back soon and we somehow manage to beat some teams vying for playoff spots. And Dirk may be back sooner then expected because earlier this week he was in a boot and has already removed it and started doing underwater exercises.

But this next stretch of games is just brutal, we have enough trouble scoring but now we have to play Golden St. twice in the next 3 games, Phoenix and the Lakers, and tonight we just lost the season series with Denver as our defense got torched and they now have a tie breaker over us. If we can win 1 game vs. the Warriors we'll have take the season series versus them.

And speaking of the Denver game I just love how we can hang 70 on a team and then score 35 points in the 2nd half, the end result may look Ok (though we were still beat handily) scoring wise but how we got there makes it seem totally different. Them scoring 70 and then 35 in both halves reminded me of on Tuesday when they played the Clippers for the 1st game without Dirk and they scored 22 points in the 1st 5 minutes of the game and over the next 12 minutes scored 11. It's pathetic how inconsistent we are.

Also I'm curious what will happen if we miss the playoffs this season, I'm thinking Avery Johnson is gone regardless of us making the playoffs, unless we make it past the 1st round. Donnie Nelson (Mavericks GM son of Don Nelson) may be on his way out but I've always loved his ability to find diamonds in the rough in the draft and in free agency (Josh Howard, Brandon Bass, Desagana Diop) I just think this team would be better off missing the playoffs and picking either a 2 guard or future PG or a center like Hakeem Thabeet or Roy Hibbert. And though he'll go in the late 1st round I've always loved Brandon Rush's game but for some reason he isn't viewed that highly for the next level. Before the season Kevin Love was projected to be a surefire top 10 pick then slipped to the middle of the 1st round and now with his great tournament run at UCLA continuing it appears he'll be going before the Mavs will have picked (assuming they miss the playoffs and all but likely losing the lottery they'll be picking 14th) I also wouldn't be shocked to see Jason Terry traded but his value is very low I'd imagine. Maybe trade Josh Howard and try to get a better 2nd scorer but I wouldn't have a clue off the top of my head. Also maybe by some miracle we can actually sign a half decent guy for our Mid Level Exception. I'm curious what a player like Ron Artest would fetch on the open market, he's certainly worth more then the 6 million the MLE is but you have to factor in the personality and possible locker room cancer.

O well until next time I'll just be soaking in my sports depression