They say three's a trend, so now, a look at Week 3 trends:
Trending Good:
Mark Sanchez
Though he hasn't been spectacular, the Jets are getting exactly what they need from Sanchez, every week. He has a touchdown pass in all three games so far this year, and the Jets are off to a 3-0 start. Hes made mistakes, but kept them to a minimum while maximizing on the mistakes of his opponents. He is also the first rookie QB in NFL history to win his first three games.
Kyle Orton
The Denver QB, like Sanchez, hasn't looked spectacular, but hes gotten his team to a 3-0 start, as well. He's played well with his new team, throwing 3 TDs without an interception. He also hasn't been sacked since going down three times in Week 1.
Trending Bad:
Brandon Jacobs
Through three games, Jacobs only has 1 TD, and that was against a Tampa Bay team that looked like Cal did on Saturday. Known for being a bruising back that hits holes and opponents like a freight train, Jacobs has looked a bit timid this year. He has yet to cross 100 yards in a game, and is only averaging 3.4 yards per carry. He also only has 1 TD so far, also against Tampa Bay yesterday.
Brady Quinn
Finally named the starter in Cleveland, big things were expected of Quinn. But Quinn hasn't delivered. He put up a TD in Week 1, but also threw an INT and was sacked five times. Since then, hes hasn't put up any points while throwing two more picks and getting sacked five more times. He was finally pulled at halftime against Baltimore, but Derek Anderson, who didn't do much better.
Ending Trends:
Detroit Lions
Lions win! The streak is over! And now, we wait to see how long Jim Zorn will keep his job.
Terrell Owens
Owens did his best Greg Jennings impression this week, ending his streak of 185 games with a catch. After the game, Owens didn't directly say he was unhappy with the play calling or how he and Lee Evans were used in the offense, but he didn't say he was happy, either:
Rookie Roundup: Using a complex scoring system to rank two major rookies for the season
Mark Sanchez: 17/30, 171 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT, 3 sacks, 10 rush yards, 1 rush TD, 2 fumbles, 1 lost
Points: 12.55, 42.7 overall
Matthew Stafford: 21/36, 241 yards, 1 TD, 2 sacks, 23 rush yards
Points: 19.35, 20.9 overall
Week 3 Winner: Stafford
What Have We Learned?: Three things we can take away from this weekend
1. Michael Vick will play, but hes being brought along slowly
With Donovan McNabb still out and his two game suspension over, we knew we'd see some of Vick this week. But how much? Answer: Not a whole lot. Though he was in for the Eagles second offensive play, he only totaled a handful of plays. He rushed for 7 yards, and was 0/2 passing. With the game well in hand, Jeff Garcia was brought in for mop-up duty.
2. Tom Brady is improving. He doesn't think his receivers are, though.
Though he was still a bit shaky, Brady is slowly looking better. He was 25/42 for 277 yards and a TD, an obvious improvement from last week against the Jets. But Brady's demeanor still needs some work. He was often angry with his receivers in this game, even blowing up on his way to the sideline after Joey Galloway dropped a pass. Is this a knew Tom Brady, who blames his teammates for his shortcomings? Has Brady learned a thing or two from the pre-Pats Randy Moss?
3. Some people's days may be numbered
Kurt Warner has been inconsistent. Jim Zorn has led his team to a 1-2 start, including a loss to the Lions(!) and some questionable play calling. Byron Leftwich has already been demoted to third string, behind a no-name and a rookie. Keep an eye out for Matt Leinart in Arizona, sooner rather than later, and Jim Zorn on the unemployment lines if they can't get things straightened out quickly.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Sunday, September 27, 2009
MY 25 - Week 4
There is probably nothing in sports I disagree with more than the BCS and college football poll system. With that in mind, each week I'll be naming my own Top 25. The only hard and fast rule of MY 25: overall records come first.
1. Alabama
2. Boise St
3. Florida
4. Texas
5. LSU
6. Kansas
7. Auburn
8. Iowa
9. Cincinnati
10. USF
11. Mizzou
12. Michigan
13. Houston
14. UCLA
15. Texas A&M
16. Wisconsin
17. TCU
18. Virginia Tech
19. Miami(FL)
20. Oregon
21. BYU
22. Oklahoma State
23. Nebraska
24. Georgia
25. Oklahoma
Performance of the Week: Oregon
After starting the season ranked but losing to Boise State, Oregon went on a somewhat weak winning streak, beating Purdue and a Utah team that had won 15 straight by a combined 10 points. This week, they put everything together against a Top-10 Cal team. After giving up a quick 3 points, the Ducks didn't allow another score, cruising to a 42-3 victory, and probably a return to the Top-25.
1. Alabama
2. Boise St
3. Florida
4. Texas
5. LSU
6. Kansas
7. Auburn
8. Iowa
9. Cincinnati
10. USF
11. Mizzou
12. Michigan
13. Houston
14. UCLA
15. Texas A&M
16. Wisconsin
17. TCU
18. Virginia Tech
19. Miami(FL)
20. Oregon
21. BYU
22. Oklahoma State
23. Nebraska
24. Georgia
25. Oklahoma
Performance of the Week: Oregon
After starting the season ranked but losing to Boise State, Oregon went on a somewhat weak winning streak, beating Purdue and a Utah team that had won 15 straight by a combined 10 points. This week, they put everything together against a Top-10 Cal team. After giving up a quick 3 points, the Ducks didn't allow another score, cruising to a 42-3 victory, and probably a return to the Top-25.
NFL Week 3 Preview - Update for Bills/Saints
Sorry, folks. In yesterdays preview, I forgot the Saints/Bills game, so here it is:
New Orleans Saints @ Buffalo Bills
Spread: Saints, -6
o/u: 52
This should be a meeting of 2-0 teams, but the Bills couldn't hold on against the Pats in Week 1. This week, the high-powered Saints O goes to Buffalo. Neither teams defense has looked great this year, but the Saints have probably the best offense in the league and the Bills are starting to pull it together. They won't pull out a win, but it will be a high scoring game, and probably the closest the Saints have played so far.
Pick: Saints 48 - Bills 34
New Orleans Saints @ Buffalo Bills
Spread: Saints, -6
o/u: 52
This should be a meeting of 2-0 teams, but the Bills couldn't hold on against the Pats in Week 1. This week, the high-powered Saints O goes to Buffalo. Neither teams defense has looked great this year, but the Saints have probably the best offense in the league and the Bills are starting to pull it together. They won't pull out a win, but it will be a high scoring game, and probably the closest the Saints have played so far.
Pick: Saints 48 - Bills 34
The Sunday News - 9/27/07
Saturday College Football Upsets: 5 Penn State, 6 Cal, 18 FSU, 22 UNC, 25 Washington all lost to unranked opponents. No. 9 Miami also lost to 11 Virginia Tech.
The St Louis Cardinals finally clinched the NL Central, with a win over the Colorado Rockies. The LA Dodgers also clinched a playoff berth. [Yahoo Sports]
Vitali Klitschko retained the WBC Heavyweight Championship with a win over Cristobal Arreola. [National Post]
Heisman Trophy winner/hopeful Tim Tebow was injured in a 41-7 win over Kentucky. Tebow spent the night in a local hospital and is said to be ok after what is believed to have been a concussion. [Courier-Journal]
Magic Number Update: The NY Yankees number is down to 1, and the LA Dodgers are down to 2. The Yankees can clinch with a win against Boston tonight, and LA can clinch with a win against Pittsburgh AND a Colorado loss to St Louis tonight.
The St Louis Cardinals finally clinched the NL Central, with a win over the Colorado Rockies. The LA Dodgers also clinched a playoff berth. [Yahoo Sports]
Vitali Klitschko retained the WBC Heavyweight Championship with a win over Cristobal Arreola. [National Post]
Heisman Trophy winner/hopeful Tim Tebow was injured in a 41-7 win over Kentucky. Tebow spent the night in a local hospital and is said to be ok after what is believed to have been a concussion. [Courier-Journal]
Magic Number Update: The NY Yankees number is down to 1, and the LA Dodgers are down to 2. The Yankees can clinch with a win against Boston tonight, and LA can clinch with a win against Pittsburgh AND a Colorado loss to St Louis tonight.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
NFL Week 3 Preview
Tennessee Titans @ NY Jets
Spread: Jets, -2.5
o/u: 37
In Week 1, Tennessee's offense looked weak and their defense looked good. Then, in Week 2, their defense look pourous, but their offense found some life. The inconsistency on both sides of the ball has the Titans at 0-2, and going on the road against the 2-0 Jets. This is the first game of the season where the Jets will be the favorite. They have one of the best defenses in the league, but their offense is still a question mark. But as long as that D continues its outstanding play, the Jets can keep the score low and pull out a win.
Pick: Jets 17 - Titans 10
Spread: Jets, -2.5
o/u: 37
In Week 1, Tennessee's offense looked weak and their defense looked good. Then, in Week 2, their defense look pourous, but their offense found some life. The inconsistency on both sides of the ball has the Titans at 0-2, and going on the road against the 2-0 Jets. This is the first game of the season where the Jets will be the favorite. They have one of the best defenses in the league, but their offense is still a question mark. But as long as that D continues its outstanding play, the Jets can keep the score low and pull out a win.
Pick: Jets 17 - Titans 10
Saturday Morning News - 9/26/09
San Diego Charger LaDainian Tomlinson will miss Sunday's game against the Miami Dolphins. [LA Times]
The Philadelphia Phillies have announced Brad Lidge will not be the teams sole closer for the remainder of the season and playoffs. Lidge, who was a perfect 41-41 in save opportunities last season, leads the Majors with 11 blown saves this year. [FOX Sports]
Theo Fleury, attempting a comeback from a long, substance-abuse related suspension from the NHL, has been released by the Calgary Flames. [CBC.ca]
Magic Number Update: The St Louis Cardinals continue to hold steady at 1. The Yankees number in the East and Red Sox number in the Wild Card are at 3. The Yankees can clinch with a sweep of the Red Sox this weekend.
The Philadelphia Phillies have announced Brad Lidge will not be the teams sole closer for the remainder of the season and playoffs. Lidge, who was a perfect 41-41 in save opportunities last season, leads the Majors with 11 blown saves this year. [FOX Sports]
Theo Fleury, attempting a comeback from a long, substance-abuse related suspension from the NHL, has been released by the Calgary Flames. [CBC.ca]
Magic Number Update: The St Louis Cardinals continue to hold steady at 1. The Yankees number in the East and Red Sox number in the Wild Card are at 3. The Yankees can clinch with a sweep of the Red Sox this weekend.
Friday, September 25, 2009
College Football Week 4 - Important Matchups
9 Miami(FL) @ 11 Virginia Tech
Favorite: Miami, -2.5
Miami opens this year with four straight ranked opponents. So far, they've beaten FSU and Georgia Tech to get a 2-0 start on the season. Virginia Tech already lost to a ranked Alabama in Week 1, and barely beat ranked Nebraska last week. Now they'll have to beat a ranked division rival to prove they belong in the Top 10. Miami has looked strong on defense, and Jacory Harris has proven he can lead this team to victory. Va Tech will simply be overmatched this week.
Pick: Miami 34 - Va Tech 17
22 UNC @ Georgia Tech
Favorite: Georgia Tech, -2.5
UNC may be ranked and undefeated, but they haven't beaten a real opponent yet, either. Formerly ranked, Georgia Tech wants back in the Top 25. But they really haven't beaten anyone yet, either. They lost last week to Miami, and Miami just made them look bad, swarming all over their triple-option every time they ran it. QB Josh Nesbitt has also proven he can't do much with the ball besides run and pitch it to his backs. UNC will come in with one of the best run defenses in the country, and they'll leave with a win.
Pick: UNC 35 - Georgia Tech 13
Texas Tech @ 17 Houston
Favorite: Houston, -1
In their last game, Houston beat then-No. 5 Oklahoma State. Now they've had an off week to come down from that high and prepare for a Texas Tech team prepared to put some points up. Between the two teams, they've put up at least 45 points in three of their four wins, and Tech managed 24 in their loss last week to Texas. The game is going to come down to Houston's D barely managing to hold off a Tech team that needs just a bit more experience.
Pick: Houston 48 - Texas Tech 38
Iowa @ 5 Penn State
Favorite: Penn State, -9.5
At first glance, the spread on this game seams a little high considering Iowa won this game last year, and hasn't lost since. But that doesn't mean Iowa is good. In fact, since they started the season ranked, Iowa hasn't played up to expectations in their three wins, and managed to lose their ranking in the process. This years game will be played in Happy Valley, where Penn State hasn't lost in almost 2 years. I'm sure white out conditions will be in effect, and Iowa won't know what hit them.
Pick: Penn State 38 - Iowa 10
Favorite: Miami, -2.5
Miami opens this year with four straight ranked opponents. So far, they've beaten FSU and Georgia Tech to get a 2-0 start on the season. Virginia Tech already lost to a ranked Alabama in Week 1, and barely beat ranked Nebraska last week. Now they'll have to beat a ranked division rival to prove they belong in the Top 10. Miami has looked strong on defense, and Jacory Harris has proven he can lead this team to victory. Va Tech will simply be overmatched this week.
Pick: Miami 34 - Va Tech 17
22 UNC @ Georgia Tech
Favorite: Georgia Tech, -2.5
UNC may be ranked and undefeated, but they haven't beaten a real opponent yet, either. Formerly ranked, Georgia Tech wants back in the Top 25. But they really haven't beaten anyone yet, either. They lost last week to Miami, and Miami just made them look bad, swarming all over their triple-option every time they ran it. QB Josh Nesbitt has also proven he can't do much with the ball besides run and pitch it to his backs. UNC will come in with one of the best run defenses in the country, and they'll leave with a win.
Pick: UNC 35 - Georgia Tech 13
Texas Tech @ 17 Houston
Favorite: Houston, -1
In their last game, Houston beat then-No. 5 Oklahoma State. Now they've had an off week to come down from that high and prepare for a Texas Tech team prepared to put some points up. Between the two teams, they've put up at least 45 points in three of their four wins, and Tech managed 24 in their loss last week to Texas. The game is going to come down to Houston's D barely managing to hold off a Tech team that needs just a bit more experience.
Pick: Houston 48 - Texas Tech 38
Iowa @ 5 Penn State
Favorite: Penn State, -9.5
At first glance, the spread on this game seams a little high considering Iowa won this game last year, and hasn't lost since. But that doesn't mean Iowa is good. In fact, since they started the season ranked, Iowa hasn't played up to expectations in their three wins, and managed to lose their ranking in the process. This years game will be played in Happy Valley, where Penn State hasn't lost in almost 2 years. I'm sure white out conditions will be in effect, and Iowa won't know what hit them.
Pick: Penn State 38 - Iowa 10
Friday Magic Numbers
Closing in on the end of the season, all division and wild card leaders have a chance to clinch this week.
AL East:
NY Yankees(already clinch playoff berth), +5.5 over Boston: 5
AL Central:
Detroit, +3 over Minnesota: 8
AL West:
LA Angels, +7 over Texas: 4
AL Wild Card:
Boston, +8 over Texas: 3
NL East:
Philadelphia, +7 over Atlanta: 4
NL Central:
St Louis, +9.5 over Chicago Cubs: 1
NL West:
LA Dodgers, +6 over Colorado: 4
NL Wild Card:
Colorado, +3.5 over Atlanta: 7
AL East:
NY Yankees(already clinch playoff berth), +5.5 over Boston: 5
AL Central:
Detroit, +3 over Minnesota: 8
AL West:
LA Angels, +7 over Texas: 4
AL Wild Card:
Boston, +8 over Texas: 3
NL East:
Philadelphia, +7 over Atlanta: 4
NL Central:
St Louis, +9.5 over Chicago Cubs: 1
NL West:
LA Dodgers, +6 over Colorado: 4
NL Wild Card:
Colorado, +3.5 over Atlanta: 7
Friday Morning News - 9/25/09
No 4 Ole Miss was upset last night by Steve Spurrier's South Carolina Gamecocks. [Fanhouse]
Though his foot is healing well, Houston Rockets center Yao Ming will sit out all of the 2009-2010 season. [Interbasket.net]
Wayne Gretzky has stepped down as head coach of the Phoenix Coyotes, citing the organization moving in a new direction once it is sold. He is being replaced by former Dallas Stars coach Dave Tippett. [Reuters]
Though his foot is healing well, Houston Rockets center Yao Ming will sit out all of the 2009-2010 season. [Interbasket.net]
Wayne Gretzky has stepped down as head coach of the Phoenix Coyotes, citing the organization moving in a new direction once it is sold. He is being replaced by former Dallas Stars coach Dave Tippett. [Reuters]
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Thursday Morning News - 9/24/09
Long-time Atlanta Braves manager Bobby Cox has signed an extension through 2010, at which point he will retire. [Fanhouse]
Dallas Cowboy Flozell Adams has been fined $12,500 for tripping Giants Justin Tuck and Osi Umenyiora. [Newsday]
Goalie Olaf Kolzig has retired after 19 years of professional hockey. [NHL.com]
Magic Number update: The St Louis Cardinals are down to 1. They have off tonight, but can clinch with a Chicago Cubs loss against San Francisco.
Dallas Cowboy Flozell Adams has been fined $12,500 for tripping Giants Justin Tuck and Osi Umenyiora. [Newsday]
Goalie Olaf Kolzig has retired after 19 years of professional hockey. [NHL.com]
Magic Number update: The St Louis Cardinals are down to 1. They have off tonight, but can clinch with a Chicago Cubs loss against San Francisco.
More Wild Card Teams Won't Help Baseball. A Salary Cap Will.
I've heard a lot of basbeall "experts" bringing up the idea of adding another wild card team to both MLB leagues to spice up the playoff races. They think it will add late season excitement, and the addition of a one-game playoff between the now-two wild card teams would put the winner at a disadvantage for the Division Series. Tim Kurkjian, on Mike and Mike in the Morning today, even brought up the fact that it could help small-market teams, since the major stories this year are all big-market teams. But all these arguments are wrong.
I'd first like to address the idea that the wild card team should be put at a disadvantage. People say its been too easy for wild card teams to reach and win the World Series. Of the 28 wild card teams since its inception, nine have reached the World Series, and four have won it. But why should it have to be harder? Of those 28 teams, 17 of them have had a better record than one or both of the division winners in their league, outside of their division. This includes a 2001 Oakland A's team that won 102 games, more than any other team except the Seattle Mariners, who won 116 games and the division. In fact, only in 1995 and 1999 have both wild card teams not finished with a better record than a division winner in their league. When the division winners consistently outperform the wild card teams, then you can make an honest arguement that wild card teams should be at a disadvantage.
Really here the big reason for this idea is the lack of a pennant race this year. The Yankees are already in the playoffs and the Cardinals can clinch their division with a Cubs loss tonight. The only thing close to a race is the AL Central, where Detroit currently has a 2.5 game lead on Minnesota. Is adding another playoff team really the answer? Even this year, the only race that would actually be exciting would be between Atlanta and San Francisco, who would be tied for the second wild card spot. No, the real answer is a salary cap.
Since the introduction of the wild card in 1995, the NY Yankees have had the highest payroll in baseball every year except 1995 and 1998. They also went to the playoffs every year except 2008. This year, their payroll is over $50 million more than the next team, the NY Mets. The current system, which has a luxury tax on teams with payrolls over a certain amount, will tax only the Yankees this year, while not ensuring that teams have to spend more or less than a certain amount. Under this system, teams that want to go out and spend money can spend as much as they want. Similarly, teams that don't want to spend money can sit back and do nothing. A salary cap with a hard floor and ceiling, like is done in other sports, would fix that.
Over the past 14 years, baseball salaries have more than tripled. The top payrolls in 1995 would be the bottom payrolls today. But looking at the payrolls ranks, one thing stands out: the bottom teams always stay near the bottom. With baseball's shared revenue, small-market teams get a cut of the money generated by competetive, mostly big-market teams. Looking at 2008's payrolls, the Pittsburgh Pirates, Oakland A's, Tampa Bay Rays and Florida Marlins all spent less than $50 million. But the Pirates alone reportedly made $75 million from revenue sharing. Without a hard floor and ceiling, there is no real incentive for teams to cut spending or put money into a competitive team. Setting a ceiling in the low $100 millions and a floor around $50 million would force big-market teams, like the Yankees and Red Sox, perennial playoff teams, to cut spending. It would also cause perennial bottom-dwellers to be competitive by spending more money.
What we have now is a system in where a team like the Yankees can make money and put it back into the team. Meanwhile, a team like the Pirates can make money simply off of revenue sharing, then pocket the money and put a non-competitive team on the field. This is whats wrong with pennant races these days. A salary cap that would force teams to be competitive would bring more parity to the game, and more meaningful games into September.
I'd first like to address the idea that the wild card team should be put at a disadvantage. People say its been too easy for wild card teams to reach and win the World Series. Of the 28 wild card teams since its inception, nine have reached the World Series, and four have won it. But why should it have to be harder? Of those 28 teams, 17 of them have had a better record than one or both of the division winners in their league, outside of their division. This includes a 2001 Oakland A's team that won 102 games, more than any other team except the Seattle Mariners, who won 116 games and the division. In fact, only in 1995 and 1999 have both wild card teams not finished with a better record than a division winner in their league. When the division winners consistently outperform the wild card teams, then you can make an honest arguement that wild card teams should be at a disadvantage.
Really here the big reason for this idea is the lack of a pennant race this year. The Yankees are already in the playoffs and the Cardinals can clinch their division with a Cubs loss tonight. The only thing close to a race is the AL Central, where Detroit currently has a 2.5 game lead on Minnesota. Is adding another playoff team really the answer? Even this year, the only race that would actually be exciting would be between Atlanta and San Francisco, who would be tied for the second wild card spot. No, the real answer is a salary cap.
Since the introduction of the wild card in 1995, the NY Yankees have had the highest payroll in baseball every year except 1995 and 1998. They also went to the playoffs every year except 2008. This year, their payroll is over $50 million more than the next team, the NY Mets. The current system, which has a luxury tax on teams with payrolls over a certain amount, will tax only the Yankees this year, while not ensuring that teams have to spend more or less than a certain amount. Under this system, teams that want to go out and spend money can spend as much as they want. Similarly, teams that don't want to spend money can sit back and do nothing. A salary cap with a hard floor and ceiling, like is done in other sports, would fix that.
Over the past 14 years, baseball salaries have more than tripled. The top payrolls in 1995 would be the bottom payrolls today. But looking at the payrolls ranks, one thing stands out: the bottom teams always stay near the bottom. With baseball's shared revenue, small-market teams get a cut of the money generated by competetive, mostly big-market teams. Looking at 2008's payrolls, the Pittsburgh Pirates, Oakland A's, Tampa Bay Rays and Florida Marlins all spent less than $50 million. But the Pirates alone reportedly made $75 million from revenue sharing. Without a hard floor and ceiling, there is no real incentive for teams to cut spending or put money into a competitive team. Setting a ceiling in the low $100 millions and a floor around $50 million would force big-market teams, like the Yankees and Red Sox, perennial playoff teams, to cut spending. It would also cause perennial bottom-dwellers to be competitive by spending more money.
What we have now is a system in where a team like the Yankees can make money and put it back into the team. Meanwhile, a team like the Pirates can make money simply off of revenue sharing, then pocket the money and put a non-competitive team on the field. This is whats wrong with pennant races these days. A salary cap that would force teams to be competitive would bring more parity to the game, and more meaningful games into September.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Wednesday Morning News - 9/23/09
Russian billionaire Mikhail Prokhorov, believed to be Russia's richest man, is rumored to have placed a bid to buy the New Jersey Nets. The $700mil offer is more than double the estimated value of the team. [SportBusiness.com]
Arizona Diamondback Mark Reynolds has broken his own strikeout record. His 204 last season was the previous high, and he now has 206 with 12 games remaining. [ESPN]
James Isch has been named interim president of the NCAA. [USA Today]
Tampa Bay Buccaneers S Jermaine Phillips will be out the rest of the season after suffering a broken thumb on Sunday. [TampaBay.com]
The NY Yankees have clinched a playoff berth. They are the first team to do so this year, and it is their 14th trip in the last 15 years.
Magic Number update: The St Louis Cardinals are down to 2. They can clinch the NL Central with a win and a Chicago Cubs loss tonight.
Arizona Diamondback Mark Reynolds has broken his own strikeout record. His 204 last season was the previous high, and he now has 206 with 12 games remaining. [ESPN]
James Isch has been named interim president of the NCAA. [USA Today]
Tampa Bay Buccaneers S Jermaine Phillips will be out the rest of the season after suffering a broken thumb on Sunday. [TampaBay.com]
The NY Yankees have clinched a playoff berth. They are the first team to do so this year, and it is their 14th trip in the last 15 years.
Magic Number update: The St Louis Cardinals are down to 2. They can clinch the NL Central with a win and a Chicago Cubs loss tonight.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
NFL Week 2 Wrap-up
This week, we saw some teams take a step forward, some take a step back, and others just stood there.
Forward, to Victory!:
New York Jets
After a Week 1 beating of the Houston Texans, many wondered if the Jets were that good, or the Texans were that overrated. Well, the Jets held the Pats to 9 points, and no TDs in Week 2, while the Texans put up 34 on the Titans, making Matt Schaub look like a mid-'90s Brett Favre in the process. The Jets haven't allowed an offensive touchdown in all 8 quarters of play this year.
Denver Broncos
After barely coming away with the win against Cincinnati in Week 1, Denver had to take on Cleveland to attempt the Ohio Sweep. Last week, Denver's rushing game only totaled 75 yards on 20 plays. This week, Corel Buckhalter and Knowshon Moreno had 75 yards each, as the rushing attack stepped up its game. With QB Kyle Orton's stats staying largely the same(with the exception of increased attempts leading to decreased completion percentage), Denver finished up with a 27-6 win.
Backwards, ho!:
New England Patriots
The Pats D looked about the same this week as they did last, allowing only 1 TD and 3 field goals. But their offense sputtered for much of the game, only coming up with three field goals of their own. The loss breaks Tom Brady's win streak. It is also the first time the Pats haven't had an offensive TD since December 10, 2006, and they haven't been 0-3 in the red zone since October 26, 2003. And after throwing for almost 400 yards in Week 1, Brady barely passed 200 this week, completing less than 50% of his passes.
Seattle Seahawks
Seattle had high hopes this season, with their major injuries from last year healed and the addition of WR TJ Houshmandzadeh. But one hit at the end of the second quarter and QB Matt Hasselbeck was down for the count, his game ended on a three yard run to the 49ers 1. With the Seattle defense pretty much getting out of the way of Frank Gore(207 rushing yards, 2 TDs), backup QB Seneca Wallace, bless his heart, just couldn't do it alone. He scored on his first play, but couldn't put up any points in the second half.
Same Old Song & Dance:
Pittsburgh Steelers
Forward, to Victory!:
New York Jets
After a Week 1 beating of the Houston Texans, many wondered if the Jets were that good, or the Texans were that overrated. Well, the Jets held the Pats to 9 points, and no TDs in Week 2, while the Texans put up 34 on the Titans, making Matt Schaub look like a mid-'90s Brett Favre in the process. The Jets haven't allowed an offensive touchdown in all 8 quarters of play this year.
Denver Broncos
After barely coming away with the win against Cincinnati in Week 1, Denver had to take on Cleveland to attempt the Ohio Sweep. Last week, Denver's rushing game only totaled 75 yards on 20 plays. This week, Corel Buckhalter and Knowshon Moreno had 75 yards each, as the rushing attack stepped up its game. With QB Kyle Orton's stats staying largely the same(with the exception of increased attempts leading to decreased completion percentage), Denver finished up with a 27-6 win.
Backwards, ho!:
New England Patriots
The Pats D looked about the same this week as they did last, allowing only 1 TD and 3 field goals. But their offense sputtered for much of the game, only coming up with three field goals of their own. The loss breaks Tom Brady's win streak. It is also the first time the Pats haven't had an offensive TD since December 10, 2006, and they haven't been 0-3 in the red zone since October 26, 2003. And after throwing for almost 400 yards in Week 1, Brady barely passed 200 this week, completing less than 50% of his passes.
Seattle Seahawks
Seattle had high hopes this season, with their major injuries from last year healed and the addition of WR TJ Houshmandzadeh. But one hit at the end of the second quarter and QB Matt Hasselbeck was down for the count, his game ended on a three yard run to the 49ers 1. With the Seattle defense pretty much getting out of the way of Frank Gore(207 rushing yards, 2 TDs), backup QB Seneca Wallace, bless his heart, just couldn't do it alone. He scored on his first play, but couldn't put up any points in the second half.
Same Old Song & Dance:
Pittsburgh Steelers
In Week 1, the Steelers held Tennessee to 10 points, but could only put up 13 of their own. This week , against a Bears D without Brian Urlacher, the Steelers could only manage 14 points, but not for lack of trying. Kicker Jeff Reed's two missed field goals spelled doom for a Steelers offense that hasn't looked as good as expected this year. Sure, their stats may have looked better than they did last week, but stats don't always tell the whole story.
New Orleans Saints
You guys have scored 93 total points, 45 against a poor Lions D, and 48 against a good Eagles D. But you also allowed over 20 points in both of those games, including 391 passing yards by Eagles backup Kevin Kolb. As the old saying goes, "Offense puts asses in the seats, but defense wins championships." Over the next two weeks, you have a surging Bills offense followed by a Jets D that hasn't given up a TD. If the D doesn't improve, will the O still be able to carry the day?
New Orleans Saints
You guys have scored 93 total points, 45 against a poor Lions D, and 48 against a good Eagles D. But you also allowed over 20 points in both of those games, including 391 passing yards by Eagles backup Kevin Kolb. As the old saying goes, "Offense puts asses in the seats, but defense wins championships." Over the next two weeks, you have a surging Bills offense followed by a Jets D that hasn't given up a TD. If the D doesn't improve, will the O still be able to carry the day?
Injuries:
Troy Williamson, WR, Jaguars: out for the season with a torn labrum
Louis Leonard, DT, Panther: out for the season with a broken ankle
Troy Williamson, WR, Jaguars: out for the season with a torn labrum
Louis Leonard, DT, Panther: out for the season with a broken ankle
Brad Butler, RT, Bills: out for the season with a knee injury
Randy Thomas, RG, Redskins: out for the season with a torn right triceps
Randy Thomas, RG, Redskins: out for the season with a torn right triceps
Robert Gallery, RG, Raiders: out 4-6 weeks with a broken leg
Marion Barber, RB, Cowboys: status unsure with a quad injury
Matt Hasselbeck, QB, Seahawks: status unsure with a fractured rib
Fantasy Studs:
Week 2 Picks:
Straight up: 9-7, 23-9
ATS: 9-7, 20-12
o/u: 6-10, 14-18
Questions for Week 3:
How much will we see Michael Vick?
Fantasy Studs:
- Philip Rivers. 436 yards and 2 TDs is good, even with 2 INTs
- Frank Gore. 207 rushing yards would be good enough. Add on 2 TDs and 39 receving yards and I can honestly say I've seen fantasy teams put up less points than Gore did here.
- The Dallas Cowboys cage dancers. Yeah, I said it.
Fantasy Duds:
- Greg Jennings. Zero. Zero everything. No yards, no catches, no nothing.
- JaMarcus Russel. 7/24, 109 yards from the Raiders franchise QB. Just soak that in a little.
- Tom Brady. Less than 50% passing, 216 yards, 0 TDs, 1 INT in a big game against a division rival. We've come to expect more than that from you, Tom.
Week 2 Picks:
Straight up: 9-7, 23-9
ATS: 9-7, 20-12
o/u: 6-10, 14-18
Questions for Week 3:
How much will we see Michael Vick?
Most people assume Donovan McNabb will still be out this week. While Andy Reid has already said Kevin Kolb will be his starter if McNabb can't go, Vick is expected to get some playing time. Even without Vick, the Eagles attempted the Wildcat formation, and its perfectly suited for Vick's abilities. But after missing two more weeks right after coming in and getting used to the system, will Vick be ready to go this week? And if he is, will he be effective?
Can Matt Hasselbeck play?
Hasselbeck, like McNabb, has a fractured rib. Its not known how serious either injury is, as rib injuries can be tricky to treat and handle. Coming off a season in which he played in only 7 games and was largely ineffective in those games, Hasselbeck has more to prove. Backup Seneca Wallce has looked good when asked to start, but no one seems to think he is the answer for what Seattle needs. So who gets the nod for Seattle? And if its Hasselbeck, how effective con he be?
Will Tom Brady get his mojo back?
Watching the Jets-Patriots game, I was struck by one thing that no one else seemed to pick up on: Tom Brady's sideline demeanor. Brady has for a long time been the Patriots rock, the guy they can get behind and trust to lead them to victory. But watching him on the sideline, I didn't see that any more. Instead what I saw was a player who had lost his confidence. Gone was the confident smile. Gone was the "Don't worry, we'll get the ball back and score" attitude. What I saw instead was a goy who was unsure of himself. He wasn't smiling. He wasn't joking around with teammates. And it showed on the field. Can Brady get that attitude back? Or are the Pats doomed to have more games like this one this year?
Tuesday Morning News - 9/22/09
Buffalo Bill Donte Whitner was robbed of over $400,000 worth of jewelry. The theft comes just a week after Bill Leodis McKelvin's lawn was vandalized. [Yahoo]
Justine Henin is believed to be ready to return to tennis after retiring last year. [SB Nation]
NFL Hall of Famer Herschel Walker, 47, will become an MMA fighter after signing a multi-fight contract with UFC rival Strikeforce. [Fifth Down]
The Houston Astros have fired manager Cecil Cooper. Third-base coach Dave Clark will take over for the final 13 games. [Houston Chronicle]
Magic Number update: The St Louis Cardinals magic number over the Chicago Cubs is down to 3, and the Yankees can clinch a playoff spot with a win or Texas Rangers loss.
Justine Henin is believed to be ready to return to tennis after retiring last year. [SB Nation]
NFL Hall of Famer Herschel Walker, 47, will become an MMA fighter after signing a multi-fight contract with UFC rival Strikeforce. [Fifth Down]
The Houston Astros have fired manager Cecil Cooper. Third-base coach Dave Clark will take over for the final 13 games. [Houston Chronicle]
Magic Number update: The St Louis Cardinals magic number over the Chicago Cubs is down to 3, and the Yankees can clinch a playoff spot with a win or Texas Rangers loss.
Monday, September 21, 2009
MNF Preview - Week 2
Indianapolis Colts @ Miami Dolphins
Spread: Colts, -3
o/u: 42
Last week the Dolphins put up 7 points in a loss, and the Colts put up 14 in a win. This week, the Wildcat offense comes to Monday Night Football. And if it was being run by the Miami Hurricanes, it might win the game. But its being run by the Dolphins. And after taking averyone by surprise last year, its not folling anyone this year. A Colts D revamped from last year will keep it in check, while the offense will be hamped only by the loss of Anthony Gonzalez and Hank Baskett's inexperience in the system.
Pick: Colts 35 - Dolphins 17
Spread: Colts, -3
o/u: 42
Last week the Dolphins put up 7 points in a loss, and the Colts put up 14 in a win. This week, the Wildcat offense comes to Monday Night Football. And if it was being run by the Miami Hurricanes, it might win the game. But its being run by the Dolphins. And after taking averyone by surprise last year, its not folling anyone this year. A Colts D revamped from last year will keep it in check, while the offense will be hamped only by the loss of Anthony Gonzalez and Hank Baskett's inexperience in the system.
Pick: Colts 35 - Dolphins 17
Monday Morning News - 9/21/09
Mark Martin has won the opening race of the Chase for the Cup. [Chicago Tribune]
Notre Dame WR Michael Floyd is expected to miss the rest of the season after undergoing surgery to repair a broken collar bone. [Seattle Post Intelligencer]
Chicago Cub Milton Bradley has been suspended the remainder of the season for conduct detrimental to the team. [Chicago Sun-Times]
Arizona Cardinals QB Kurt Warner set an NFL record, completing 92.3% of his passes against the Jacksonville Jaguars. [Yahoo Shutdown Corner]
The 49ers have officially charged the NY Jets of tampering in their negotiations with WR Michael Crabtree, according to the NY Daily News. [NYDN]
Seattle Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck Left Sunday's game against the 49ers with a rib injury. He is expected to play next week. [Seattle Times]
Notre Dame WR Michael Floyd is expected to miss the rest of the season after undergoing surgery to repair a broken collar bone. [Seattle Post Intelligencer]
Chicago Cub Milton Bradley has been suspended the remainder of the season for conduct detrimental to the team. [Chicago Sun-Times]
Arizona Cardinals QB Kurt Warner set an NFL record, completing 92.3% of his passes against the Jacksonville Jaguars. [Yahoo Shutdown Corner]
The 49ers have officially charged the NY Jets of tampering in their negotiations with WR Michael Crabtree, according to the NY Daily News. [NYDN]
Seattle Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck Left Sunday's game against the 49ers with a rib injury. He is expected to play next week. [Seattle Times]
NFL Sunday Recap - Week 2
After a surprising Week 1, in which we learned we didn't learn much, Week 2 set everything topsy-turvey.
On an Upswing:
Jay Cutler
Ok, I pretty much did everything but call Jay Cutler the worst QB in the NFL, but he put up against the Steelers D. He did, in fact, have the bounce back game everyone but me predicted he would. He went 27/38, with 236 yards and 2 TDs after throwing 4 picks last week. Good for you, Jay Cutler. Good for you.
Frank Gore
207 rushing yards and 2 TDs after only 30 yards last week. Get some consistency on that and the 49ers might just win the NFC West.
On the Down Side:
Tennessee's D
Last week, Tennessee made the Steelers offense look like Tulane's in a losing effort. This week, against a Houston Texans team that looked anemic against the Jets, the Titans gave up 357 passing yards and 34 points. After going 13-3 last season after starting 10-0, the Titans are already 0-2 this year.
Greg Jennings
After putting up 106 yards and a TD in week 1, Jennings was a non-factor in this weeks game. As in 0 catches, 0 yards, 0 TDs. Yes, he did, in fact, play in the game.
Rookie Roundup: Using a complex scoring system to rank two major rookies for the season
Mark Sanchez: 14/22, 163 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT, 2 sacks, -2 rush yards
Points: 11.95, 30.15 overall
Matthew Stafford: 18/30, 152 yards, 1 TD, 2 INT, 2 sacks, 7 rush yards
Points: 4.3, 1.55 overall
Week 2 Winner: Sanchez
What Have We Learned?: Three things we can take away from this weekend
1. Kevin Kolb can play
Week 1 left us wondering just who would start in place of an injured Donovan McNabb in Week 2. The emergency signing of Jeff Garcia left many thinking he would be taking the snaps. Or would it be largely untested Kolb, who had been drafted to eventually take over for McNabb when his playing days are done? Well, it would be Kolb, and he surprised everyone. Yes, he threw 3 picks, but thats the kind of thing that happens when a young QB puts up 51 attempts. He also had 391 yards and 2 TDs, completing 60.8% of his passes in the loss.
2. The Pats are an 0-2 team
Their record may say 1-1, but they didn't win Week 1, Leodis McKelvin lost. The Pats D may have looked better this week, but Tom Brady threw 0 TDs, 1 INT, and completed less than 50% passing. Theres still lots of season left, and if anyone can turn it around its Bill Belichick.
3. Old men can still play football
Two players over the age of 35 broke records this weekend: Brett Favre and Kurt Warner. Favre's record of consecutive games played is an obvious one. His consecutive games played streak has been talked about for years. But at 38-years-old, who expects Warner to go 24-26 and break the record for completion percentage in a game? Warner, who most thought was headed out to the dessert to fade away as Matt Lienart's backup and is throwing to a group of injured receivers. Warner, who somehow led his team to the Super Bowl last year. Warner, who despite winning a Super Bowl just can't seem to get people to take him seriously as a starting QB. Hey, could Kurt Warner be the next Brett Favre?
On an Upswing:
Jay Cutler
Ok, I pretty much did everything but call Jay Cutler the worst QB in the NFL, but he put up against the Steelers D. He did, in fact, have the bounce back game everyone but me predicted he would. He went 27/38, with 236 yards and 2 TDs after throwing 4 picks last week. Good for you, Jay Cutler. Good for you.
Frank Gore
207 rushing yards and 2 TDs after only 30 yards last week. Get some consistency on that and the 49ers might just win the NFC West.
On the Down Side:
Tennessee's D
Last week, Tennessee made the Steelers offense look like Tulane's in a losing effort. This week, against a Houston Texans team that looked anemic against the Jets, the Titans gave up 357 passing yards and 34 points. After going 13-3 last season after starting 10-0, the Titans are already 0-2 this year.
Greg Jennings
After putting up 106 yards and a TD in week 1, Jennings was a non-factor in this weeks game. As in 0 catches, 0 yards, 0 TDs. Yes, he did, in fact, play in the game.
Rookie Roundup: Using a complex scoring system to rank two major rookies for the season
Mark Sanchez: 14/22, 163 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT, 2 sacks, -2 rush yards
Points: 11.95, 30.15 overall
Matthew Stafford: 18/30, 152 yards, 1 TD, 2 INT, 2 sacks, 7 rush yards
Points: 4.3, 1.55 overall
Week 2 Winner: Sanchez
What Have We Learned?: Three things we can take away from this weekend
1. Kevin Kolb can play
Week 1 left us wondering just who would start in place of an injured Donovan McNabb in Week 2. The emergency signing of Jeff Garcia left many thinking he would be taking the snaps. Or would it be largely untested Kolb, who had been drafted to eventually take over for McNabb when his playing days are done? Well, it would be Kolb, and he surprised everyone. Yes, he threw 3 picks, but thats the kind of thing that happens when a young QB puts up 51 attempts. He also had 391 yards and 2 TDs, completing 60.8% of his passes in the loss.
2. The Pats are an 0-2 team
Their record may say 1-1, but they didn't win Week 1, Leodis McKelvin lost. The Pats D may have looked better this week, but Tom Brady threw 0 TDs, 1 INT, and completed less than 50% passing. Theres still lots of season left, and if anyone can turn it around its Bill Belichick.
3. Old men can still play football
Two players over the age of 35 broke records this weekend: Brett Favre and Kurt Warner. Favre's record of consecutive games played is an obvious one. His consecutive games played streak has been talked about for years. But at 38-years-old, who expects Warner to go 24-26 and break the record for completion percentage in a game? Warner, who most thought was headed out to the dessert to fade away as Matt Lienart's backup and is throwing to a group of injured receivers. Warner, who somehow led his team to the Super Bowl last year. Warner, who despite winning a Super Bowl just can't seem to get people to take him seriously as a starting QB. Hey, could Kurt Warner be the next Brett Favre?
Sunday, September 20, 2009
MY 25 - Week 3
There is probably nothing in sports I disagree with more than the BCS and college football poll system. With that in mind, each week I'll be naming my own Top 25. The only hard and fast rule of MY 25: overall records come first.
1. Alabama
2. Boise St
3. Florida
4. Texas
5. Cal
6. Penn St
7. Miami(FL)
8. Michigan
9. LSU
10. Kansas
11. Houston
12. Cincinnati
13. UCLA
14. Auburn
15. Mizzou
16. Pitt
17. Iowa
18. UNC
19. Colorado State
20. USF
21. Wisconsin
22. Texas A&M
23. Arizona State
24. Ole Miss
25. TCU
Performance of the Week: Florida State
FSU started the year as a ranked team, with good expectations for the season. Then they lost to then-unranked Miami(FL), 38-34. Barely beating Jacksonville State, 19-9, the following week didn't help matters much. So this weeks game against 7 BYU at BYU didn't hold very high prospects. But wheither it was an overrated BYU team, or FSU finally put it all together, the end result was a 54-28 FSU win. The blowout win came on the back of Christian Ponder's 3 TDs(2 pass, 1 rush) and ended BYU's 18 game home winning streak. FSU outplayed BYU in every facet of the game, didn't punt the ball until late in the third quarter, and forced 5 turnovers on defense. While this could end BYU's BCS hopes, it might have reignited FSU's.
1. Alabama
2. Boise St
3. Florida
4. Texas
5. Cal
6. Penn St
7. Miami(FL)
8. Michigan
9. LSU
10. Kansas
11. Houston
12. Cincinnati
13. UCLA
14. Auburn
15. Mizzou
16. Pitt
17. Iowa
18. UNC
19. Colorado State
20. USF
21. Wisconsin
22. Texas A&M
23. Arizona State
24. Ole Miss
25. TCU
Performance of the Week: Florida State
FSU started the year as a ranked team, with good expectations for the season. Then they lost to then-unranked Miami(FL), 38-34. Barely beating Jacksonville State, 19-9, the following week didn't help matters much. So this weeks game against 7 BYU at BYU didn't hold very high prospects. But wheither it was an overrated BYU team, or FSU finally put it all together, the end result was a 54-28 FSU win. The blowout win came on the back of Christian Ponder's 3 TDs(2 pass, 1 rush) and ended BYU's 18 game home winning streak. FSU outplayed BYU in every facet of the game, didn't punt the ball until late in the third quarter, and forced 5 turnovers on defense. While this could end BYU's BCS hopes, it might have reignited FSU's.
The Sunday News - 9/20/09
Floyd Mayweather beat Juan Manuel Marquez by unanimous decision. [Washington Post]
UFC 103 results: Vito Belfort beat Rich Franklin, Junior dos Santos beat Mirko Cro Cop, Josh Koscheck beat Frank Trigg. [The Sun]
Washington upset 3 USC, 16-13.(If you would like to see why this shouldn't have been a surprise, click here) [Seattle Times]
Wes Welker will not play today against the Jets. He is out with a knee injury. [ESPN Boston]
UFC 103 results: Vito Belfort beat Rich Franklin, Junior dos Santos beat Mirko Cro Cop, Josh Koscheck beat Frank Trigg. [The Sun]
Washington upset 3 USC, 16-13.(If you would like to see why this shouldn't have been a surprise, click here) [Seattle Times]
Wes Welker will not play today against the Jets. He is out with a knee injury. [ESPN Boston]
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Saturday Morning News
Boston Bruin Phil Kessel has finally been traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs. The trade proves that NHL talent evalution is absurd, as Boston got two first-round picks and a second-round pick in return. Had Kessel been signed as an unrestricted free agent, Boston would have gotten a first-, second-, and third-round pick instead. [HockeyJournal.com]
Ichiro Suzuki led the Seattle Mariners to victory over the Yankees with his second consecutive walk-off hits. Mariano Rivera gave up the two-run homer for only his second blown save of the season. [YESNetwork.com]
Floyd Mayweather came in two pounds overweight for tonight's fight against Juan Manuel Marquez. ESPN is reporting that Mayweather will lose and Marquez will gain $300,000 for each pound Mayweather is over. [ESPN]
Michigan's James Mouton has been suspended one game for throwing a punch during last weeks game against Notre Dame. He will miss today's game against Eastern Michigan. [Bleacher Report]
Ichiro Suzuki led the Seattle Mariners to victory over the Yankees with his second consecutive walk-off hits. Mariano Rivera gave up the two-run homer for only his second blown save of the season. [YESNetwork.com]
Floyd Mayweather came in two pounds overweight for tonight's fight against Juan Manuel Marquez. ESPN is reporting that Mayweather will lose and Marquez will gain $300,000 for each pound Mayweather is over. [ESPN]
Michigan's James Mouton has been suspended one game for throwing a punch during last weeks game against Notre Dame. He will miss today's game against Eastern Michigan. [Bleacher Report]
NFL Week 2 Preview
New England Patriots @ New York Jets
Spread: Patriots, -3.5
o/u:46
This has become the most talked about game of the week, mostly because the Jets are doing all the talking. What most other people are saying is "Tom Brady is back! Two late TDs against Buffalo! A come from behind victory! Tom Brady is back!" What their not saying is that Tom Brady played more like Carson Palmer has lately than himself for three quarters. The Jets will bring more, different, and better pressure than the Bills did to break the streak of eight straights loses at home to the Pats.
Pick: Jets 27 - Patriots 20
Houston Texans @ Tennessee Titans
Spread: Titans, -6.5
o/u: 41
A lot of people expected Houston to win thier division this year. I wasn't one of them, and Week 1 against the Jets proved why. This week, they run into an equally good defense, and will probably have many of the same problems moving the ball that they did last week.
Pick: Titans 24 - Texans 10
Minnesota Vikings @ Detroit Lions
Spread: Vikings, -10
o/u: 45.5
Adrian Peterson will have three more TDs in this game. The Lions will have two, as a team. The rest of the Vikings will help cover the spread and the over.
Pick: Vikings 35 - Lions 17
Carolina Panthers @ Atlanta Falcons
Spread: Falcons, -6.5
o/u: 42.5
Jake Delhomme looked bad last week. Even if he gets back to old form, he has a tough Atlanta D to face. The Panther's also don't have the D to stop Atlanta's offense, with Michael Turner rushing for 4 TDs against Carolina the last time they met. I don't thinke he'll match that output, but I also don't think he needs to.
Pick: Falcons 31 - Panthers 10
St Louis Rams @ Washington Redskins
Spread: Redskins, -10
o/u: 37
The line on this game just doesn't make sense to me. Sure both teams didn't look that great last week, but a spread of 10 with a low under? Do the oddsmakers really think Washington will win 14-0? I don't.
Pick: Redskins 21 - Rams 17
Oakland Raiders @ Kansas City Chiefs
Spread: Chiefs, -3
o/u:38.5
Fall all of Oaklands faults, they do have a strong defense. They also almost beat San Diego last week. For KC, Matt Cassel still has knee problems. Whoever suits up at QB this week, look for Oakland to victimize them often, with both sacks and INTs.
Pick: Raiders 24 - Chiefs 20
Cincinnati Bengals @ Green Bay Packers
Spread: Packers, -9
o/u:42
Don't let the miraculous, last second loss fool you: Cincinnati sucked last week. Carson Palmer claims Chris Henry was a non-factor because of Denver's D. I say he was a non-factor because Carson Palmer doesn't have it any more. Meanwhile, the Packers look like they did last year on O, and much improved on D.
Pick: Packers 28 - Bengals 7
New Orleans Saints @ Philadelphia Eagles
Spread: Saints, -1
o/u: 46.5
I like the Eagles this year, but not this week. Last week their offense looked okay against an okay Panthers defense, and their defense looked amazing against a weak Panther's O. That won't be the case this week. With Donovan McNabb probably out, the offense will continue to look okay, and with the high-powered Saints offense on the other side, the defense won't look so great any more. Brees won't throw for 6 TDs this week, but he won't need to, either.
Pick: Saints 34 - Eagles 20
Arizona Cardinals @ Jacksonville Jaguars
Spread: Jaguars, -3
o/u: 42.5
Niether teams offense looked very good last week as both lost close games they could have won. The big factor here are the Cardinals receivers, who are pretty banged up already. That will keep them from putting up big points, and the Jags will cover easily.
Pick: Jaguars 28 - Cardinals 13
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Buffalo Bills
Spread: Bills, -5
o/u: 42
This is the first time in history the Bucs will play in Buffalo, and its already pretty cold up there. The Bucs D looked silly in a bad way against Dallas last week, and TO and the Bills will easily take agvantage of that. The Bills also looked surprisingly decent against the Pats last week, which means more problems for Tampa and Raheem Morris, the league's youngest head coach.
Pick: Bills 35 - Buccaneers 17
Seattle Seahawks @ San Francisco 49ers
Spread: 49ers, -1.5
o/u: 39.5
A healthy Seahawks team spells doom for the rest of the NFC West. The 49ers surprised everyone by beating the NFC champs, but it was a Cardinals team with a bunch of injured receivers. The only injury of note for Seattle is Deion Branch, and he hasn't done anything for them since joining the team anyway. Matt Hasselbeck might throw a pass or two to the wrong team, but Seattles D will get it right back for him.
Pick: Seahawks 24 - 49ers 17
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Chicago Bears
Spread: Steelers, -3
o/u: 37.5
Everyone is expecting a huge bounce-back game for Jay Cutler, including me. He'll only throw 3 picks this week, one for a touchdown. How does anyone think Cutler will bounce back against the Steelers? Are the Steelers secretly dressing the Lions Defense this week? Both teams will be without their defensive stars, as the Steelers lost Troy Polomalu for a few weeks, and the Bears lost Brian Urlacher for the season. This will hurt Chicago more than it hurts Pittsburgh.
Pick: Steelers 24 - Bears 10
Baltimore Ravens @ San Diego Chargers
Spread: Chargers, -3
o/u: 40.5
Why anyone thinks San Diego will do well outside of their division is beyond me. Both teams put up good numbers late last week, but the Chargers are facing a defense much better than the Oakland one the almost lost to last week. Oh, and Baltimore's offense is better than Oaklands, too.
Pick: Ravens 24 - Chargers 17
Cleveland Browns @ Denver Broncos
Spread: Denver, -3
o/u: 38.5
Lets be honest here: Denver's win last week was only thanks to a fluke play. And Cleveland had to try and stop Adrian Peterson. I look at the Broncos and I don't see an Adrian Peterson among them. In fact, last week the Broncos put up less than half the rushing yards Peterson had as a team. Last week Brady Quinn got the start at QB for the Browns, and probably will this week, too. In the match-up of Kyle Orton vs Brady Quinn, I'll take Quinn.
Pick: Browns 17 - Broncos 13
New York Giants @ Dallas Cowboys
Spread: Cowboys, -3
Spread: 44.5
The Cowboys open their new stadium this week. They expect over 100,000 fans to show up. The knew scoreboard alone probably generates enough energy to propel the 'Boys to victory. The Giants are probably the better team, but sometimes home field advantage is too much to overcome.
Pick: Cowboys 24 - Giants 13
Spread: Patriots, -3.5
o/u:46
This has become the most talked about game of the week, mostly because the Jets are doing all the talking. What most other people are saying is "Tom Brady is back! Two late TDs against Buffalo! A come from behind victory! Tom Brady is back!" What their not saying is that Tom Brady played more like Carson Palmer has lately than himself for three quarters. The Jets will bring more, different, and better pressure than the Bills did to break the streak of eight straights loses at home to the Pats.
Pick: Jets 27 - Patriots 20
Houston Texans @ Tennessee Titans
Spread: Titans, -6.5
o/u: 41
A lot of people expected Houston to win thier division this year. I wasn't one of them, and Week 1 against the Jets proved why. This week, they run into an equally good defense, and will probably have many of the same problems moving the ball that they did last week.
Pick: Titans 24 - Texans 10
Minnesota Vikings @ Detroit Lions
Spread: Vikings, -10
o/u: 45.5
Adrian Peterson will have three more TDs in this game. The Lions will have two, as a team. The rest of the Vikings will help cover the spread and the over.
Pick: Vikings 35 - Lions 17
Carolina Panthers @ Atlanta Falcons
Spread: Falcons, -6.5
o/u: 42.5
Jake Delhomme looked bad last week. Even if he gets back to old form, he has a tough Atlanta D to face. The Panther's also don't have the D to stop Atlanta's offense, with Michael Turner rushing for 4 TDs against Carolina the last time they met. I don't thinke he'll match that output, but I also don't think he needs to.
Pick: Falcons 31 - Panthers 10
St Louis Rams @ Washington Redskins
Spread: Redskins, -10
o/u: 37
The line on this game just doesn't make sense to me. Sure both teams didn't look that great last week, but a spread of 10 with a low under? Do the oddsmakers really think Washington will win 14-0? I don't.
Pick: Redskins 21 - Rams 17
Oakland Raiders @ Kansas City Chiefs
Spread: Chiefs, -3
o/u:38.5
Fall all of Oaklands faults, they do have a strong defense. They also almost beat San Diego last week. For KC, Matt Cassel still has knee problems. Whoever suits up at QB this week, look for Oakland to victimize them often, with both sacks and INTs.
Pick: Raiders 24 - Chiefs 20
Cincinnati Bengals @ Green Bay Packers
Spread: Packers, -9
o/u:42
Don't let the miraculous, last second loss fool you: Cincinnati sucked last week. Carson Palmer claims Chris Henry was a non-factor because of Denver's D. I say he was a non-factor because Carson Palmer doesn't have it any more. Meanwhile, the Packers look like they did last year on O, and much improved on D.
Pick: Packers 28 - Bengals 7
New Orleans Saints @ Philadelphia Eagles
Spread: Saints, -1
o/u: 46.5
I like the Eagles this year, but not this week. Last week their offense looked okay against an okay Panthers defense, and their defense looked amazing against a weak Panther's O. That won't be the case this week. With Donovan McNabb probably out, the offense will continue to look okay, and with the high-powered Saints offense on the other side, the defense won't look so great any more. Brees won't throw for 6 TDs this week, but he won't need to, either.
Pick: Saints 34 - Eagles 20
Arizona Cardinals @ Jacksonville Jaguars
Spread: Jaguars, -3
o/u: 42.5
Niether teams offense looked very good last week as both lost close games they could have won. The big factor here are the Cardinals receivers, who are pretty banged up already. That will keep them from putting up big points, and the Jags will cover easily.
Pick: Jaguars 28 - Cardinals 13
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Buffalo Bills
Spread: Bills, -5
o/u: 42
This is the first time in history the Bucs will play in Buffalo, and its already pretty cold up there. The Bucs D looked silly in a bad way against Dallas last week, and TO and the Bills will easily take agvantage of that. The Bills also looked surprisingly decent against the Pats last week, which means more problems for Tampa and Raheem Morris, the league's youngest head coach.
Pick: Bills 35 - Buccaneers 17
Seattle Seahawks @ San Francisco 49ers
Spread: 49ers, -1.5
o/u: 39.5
A healthy Seahawks team spells doom for the rest of the NFC West. The 49ers surprised everyone by beating the NFC champs, but it was a Cardinals team with a bunch of injured receivers. The only injury of note for Seattle is Deion Branch, and he hasn't done anything for them since joining the team anyway. Matt Hasselbeck might throw a pass or two to the wrong team, but Seattles D will get it right back for him.
Pick: Seahawks 24 - 49ers 17
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Chicago Bears
Spread: Steelers, -3
o/u: 37.5
Everyone is expecting a huge bounce-back game for Jay Cutler, including me. He'll only throw 3 picks this week, one for a touchdown. How does anyone think Cutler will bounce back against the Steelers? Are the Steelers secretly dressing the Lions Defense this week? Both teams will be without their defensive stars, as the Steelers lost Troy Polomalu for a few weeks, and the Bears lost Brian Urlacher for the season. This will hurt Chicago more than it hurts Pittsburgh.
Pick: Steelers 24 - Bears 10
Baltimore Ravens @ San Diego Chargers
Spread: Chargers, -3
o/u: 40.5
Why anyone thinks San Diego will do well outside of their division is beyond me. Both teams put up good numbers late last week, but the Chargers are facing a defense much better than the Oakland one the almost lost to last week. Oh, and Baltimore's offense is better than Oaklands, too.
Pick: Ravens 24 - Chargers 17
Cleveland Browns @ Denver Broncos
Spread: Denver, -3
o/u: 38.5
Lets be honest here: Denver's win last week was only thanks to a fluke play. And Cleveland had to try and stop Adrian Peterson. I look at the Broncos and I don't see an Adrian Peterson among them. In fact, last week the Broncos put up less than half the rushing yards Peterson had as a team. Last week Brady Quinn got the start at QB for the Browns, and probably will this week, too. In the match-up of Kyle Orton vs Brady Quinn, I'll take Quinn.
Pick: Browns 17 - Broncos 13
New York Giants @ Dallas Cowboys
Spread: Cowboys, -3
Spread: 44.5
The Cowboys open their new stadium this week. They expect over 100,000 fans to show up. The knew scoreboard alone probably generates enough energy to propel the 'Boys to victory. The Giants are probably the better team, but sometimes home field advantage is too much to overcome.
Pick: Cowboys 24 - Giants 13
Friday, September 18, 2009
Delonte West Arrested on Gun Charges
From WashingtonPost.com:
There is so much wrong with this situation, I don't even know where to begin. First would be, I guess, that he cut off a cop. Thats just dumb. Then, he told the cop about the gun in his waistband. I guess he didn't learn what happens when you put a gun in your waistband from Plaxico Burress. That part kind of makes sense, since a cop will sometimes ask if you have a weapon, and its smarter to tell him than to have him find it the hard way. But why tell him about that one and not the one strapped to your leg? Oh, and that shotgun in the guitar case strapped across your back. Maybe he actually thought he had a guitar in there and forgot?
The story goes on to say that it is unknown where west was going and why he was armed. My theory: he was on his way to re-enactment of an episode of Sons of Anarchy. Its just a guess. I mean, he does look kind of like Thoe Rossi.
Delonte West:
Theo Rossi as Juan Carlos "Juice" Ortiz on Sons of Anarchy:
[pics via duffy1700's photobucket, TheoRossi.com]
Delonte West, a guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers, was driving a three-wheeled motorcycle north on Interstate 95 near Route 214 in the Largo area when he cut off a Prince George's County police officer, authorities said. The officer pulled him over, and West told the officer that he was carrying a handgun in his waistband.
That prompted the officer to call for backup, and investigators found that West was actually carrying three guns: a Beretta 9mm in his waistband, a Ruger .357 strapped to his leg and a shotgun in a guitar case slung over his back, said Maj. Andy Ellis, a spokesman for the Prince George's County Police Department.
There is so much wrong with this situation, I don't even know where to begin. First would be, I guess, that he cut off a cop. Thats just dumb. Then, he told the cop about the gun in his waistband. I guess he didn't learn what happens when you put a gun in your waistband from Plaxico Burress. That part kind of makes sense, since a cop will sometimes ask if you have a weapon, and its smarter to tell him than to have him find it the hard way. But why tell him about that one and not the one strapped to your leg? Oh, and that shotgun in the guitar case strapped across your back. Maybe he actually thought he had a guitar in there and forgot?
The story goes on to say that it is unknown where west was going and why he was armed. My theory: he was on his way to re-enactment of an episode of Sons of Anarchy. Its just a guess. I mean, he does look kind of like Thoe Rossi.
Delonte West:
Theo Rossi as Juan Carlos "Juice" Ortiz on Sons of Anarchy:
[pics via duffy1700's photobucket, TheoRossi.com]
College Football Week 3 - Important Matchups
Tennessee @ 1 Florida
Favorite: Florida, -30
This will be the closest thing to a "test" Florida will have faced so far in the season, having previously beaten Charlseton Southern and Troy. And Tennessee is not a team to be taken lightly. They have a new head coach with NFL experience in Lane Kiffin, and he feels his team has something to prove. The Volunteers got blown out at home last year, and this year have to go into The Swamp for the defending National Champions. Florida will win, but a 30 point spread will favor Tennessee.
Pick: Florida 45 - Tennessee 20
Texas Tech @ 2 Texas
Favorite: Texas, -17.5
Texas Tech was the team that derailed the Big 12 South last season, causing a three-way tie with their win over Texas. Tech has lost a good portion of their playmakers, though, and will have to stop returning Texas QB Colt McCoy. This may have been one of the shock games of last year, but it won't be this year.
Pick: Texas 35 - Texas Tech 10
3 USC @ Washington
Favorite: USC, -19.5
This game has every marking on it of being a let-down game for USC. Last week they had to go into Ohio State and barely came out with the W. This week they have to go into Washington. On paper, it looks like a total mismatch. But coming off an 0-12 season, Washington already has one win this year. Plus, they only lost to LSU by eight points in Week 1. USC has also had problems going north since their undefeated regular season in 2005. They have lost at Oregon in 2007 and at Oregon State twice, including last years post-Ohio State game. I hate to say it, but I'm expecting more of the same.
Pick: Washington 28 - USC 24
19 Nebraska @ 13 Virginia Tech
Favorite: Va Tech, -5
Of the four games these teams have played this year, three have been blowouts: Nebraska over Florida Atlantic and Arkansas State, and Va Tech over Marshall. The one blemish here is Tech's loss to Alabama in Week 1, the only time either team has played a good opponent so far. I'm led to believe that 34-24 loss wasn't a fluke. Va Tech has some improving to do in the next couple of seasons before they can consistently beat ranked opponents.
Pick: Nebraska 31 - Va Tech 20
Favorite: Florida, -30
This will be the closest thing to a "test" Florida will have faced so far in the season, having previously beaten Charlseton Southern and Troy. And Tennessee is not a team to be taken lightly. They have a new head coach with NFL experience in Lane Kiffin, and he feels his team has something to prove. The Volunteers got blown out at home last year, and this year have to go into The Swamp for the defending National Champions. Florida will win, but a 30 point spread will favor Tennessee.
Pick: Florida 45 - Tennessee 20
Texas Tech @ 2 Texas
Favorite: Texas, -17.5
Texas Tech was the team that derailed the Big 12 South last season, causing a three-way tie with their win over Texas. Tech has lost a good portion of their playmakers, though, and will have to stop returning Texas QB Colt McCoy. This may have been one of the shock games of last year, but it won't be this year.
Pick: Texas 35 - Texas Tech 10
3 USC @ Washington
Favorite: USC, -19.5
This game has every marking on it of being a let-down game for USC. Last week they had to go into Ohio State and barely came out with the W. This week they have to go into Washington. On paper, it looks like a total mismatch. But coming off an 0-12 season, Washington already has one win this year. Plus, they only lost to LSU by eight points in Week 1. USC has also had problems going north since their undefeated regular season in 2005. They have lost at Oregon in 2007 and at Oregon State twice, including last years post-Ohio State game. I hate to say it, but I'm expecting more of the same.
Pick: Washington 28 - USC 24
19 Nebraska @ 13 Virginia Tech
Favorite: Va Tech, -5
Of the four games these teams have played this year, three have been blowouts: Nebraska over Florida Atlantic and Arkansas State, and Va Tech over Marshall. The one blemish here is Tech's loss to Alabama in Week 1, the only time either team has played a good opponent so far. I'm led to believe that 34-24 loss wasn't a fluke. Va Tech has some improving to do in the next couple of seasons before they can consistently beat ranked opponents.
Pick: Nebraska 31 - Va Tech 20
Friday Magic Numbers
17 days left, your MLB magic numbers:
AL East:
NY Yankees, +7 over Boston: 10
AL Central:
Detroit, +4 over Minnesota: 13
AL West:
LA Angels, +6.5 over Texas: 11
AL Wild Card:
Boston, +6 over Texas: 12
NL East:
Philadelphia, +7.5 over Atlanta: 10
NL Central:
St Louis, +9 over Chcago: 8
NL West:
LA Dodgers, +5 over Colorado: 11
NL Wild Card:
Colorado, +3.5 over San Francisco: 13
AL East:
NY Yankees, +7 over Boston: 10
AL Central:
Detroit, +4 over Minnesota: 13
AL West:
LA Angels, +6.5 over Texas: 11
AL Wild Card:
Boston, +6 over Texas: 12
NL East:
Philadelphia, +7.5 over Atlanta: 10
NL Central:
St Louis, +9 over Chcago: 8
NL West:
LA Dodgers, +5 over Colorado: 11
NL Wild Card:
Colorado, +3.5 over San Francisco: 13
Friday Morning News - 9/18/09
High school football coach Jason Stilson was found not guilty on all charges stemming from the death of a 15-year-old player during practice. [WLKY]
Roger Federer Has been fined $1,500 for swearing at an umpire during the US Open finals on Monday. [CNN International]
ESPN is reporting USC QB Aaron Corp will start this weekend in place of injured QB Matt Barkley. [ESPN]
Former Eagle Hank Baskett has signed with the Colts, replacing injured receiver Anthony Gonzalez. [1070 The Fan]
The Jacksonville Jaguars home opener this week will be blacked out on local tv. The San Diego Chargers and Detroit Lions were granted ticket selling extensions that end today. [Washington Post]
LeBron James will play himself in the upcoming movie Fantasy Basketball Camp. [Ohio.com]
Roger Federer Has been fined $1,500 for swearing at an umpire during the US Open finals on Monday. [CNN International]
ESPN is reporting USC QB Aaron Corp will start this weekend in place of injured QB Matt Barkley. [ESPN]
Former Eagle Hank Baskett has signed with the Colts, replacing injured receiver Anthony Gonzalez. [1070 The Fan]
The Jacksonville Jaguars home opener this week will be blacked out on local tv. The San Diego Chargers and Detroit Lions were granted ticket selling extensions that end today. [Washington Post]
LeBron James will play himself in the upcoming movie Fantasy Basketball Camp. [Ohio.com]
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Suspending baseball players is a joke, and now MLB pretty much admitted it
It has long been understood that the suspensions handed out to starting pitchers and hitters when an HBP leads to a fight are unfair. A first baseman suspended 5 games misses 5 games. A starting pitcher misses 1, at worst. But the results of Tuesday's Blue Jays-Yankees fight shows MLB knows no one takes them seriously.
Lets recap: Blue Jays batter gets hit by a pitch. Bottom of the eigth, Jay's reliever Carlson throws rediculously far behind Posada. Posada has words with Carlson. Posada would later come around to score from second, and bumps into Carlson, who was coming over to backup home plate if there was a throw. Carlson takes offense, benches clear, punches are thrown. As a result, Posada and Carlson are suspended four games each, Duncan is suspended three, and there are various other fines.
Oh, you heard they were all suspended three games each? Look a little deeper.
What pretty much every news story I've seen on the subject is glossing over is the fact that they were suspended four games, then had the suspensions reduced to three BECAUSE THEY AGREED NOT TO APPEAL! Oh sure, its in the stories, but usually as a throw away line at the beginning, or at the very end where no one will notice it. And I'm left asking, whats the point? Why even bother suspending people?
Sure, baseball has some harsh penalties. If you gamble on the game, you're out for life. Fail three drug tests, and out for life. Now Mike Scioscia might be facing fines for comments about the officiating in last nights Angels-Red Sox game. But the suspensions handed down for fighting and intentionally throwing at an opponent have become the laughingstock of the sports world. A suspended pitcher can immediately sit out a five game suspensions and miss one start, or his start can be pushed back and he won't really miss any. A fielder in an important series can appeal his suspension, enabling him to continue playing until the suspension is heard. Or he can just drop his suspension when the series is over or hes scheduled for a rest anyway, and begin serving his suspension when he or his teams wants him to. Not to mention the fact that appeals are usually successful in reducing a suspension by at least a game. And now this.
What Baseball has pretty much done now is take the appeals process out of the equation. Its as if they said "We know four games is too high, so if you agree to not drag out the appeals process, we'll drop it to three." This sets an interesting precedent for suspensions in the future. Could a starting pitcher now agree to immediately sit a five game suspension, miss four instead, and not even worry about interrupting his routine? Are we headed towards a point where a batter can say "I'll take four games, but only if I can serve them during our series against Kansas City next month"? What needs to be done is finally set up a mandatory length of time for suspensions of this type. Pitchers have to miss three trips through the rotation. Batters sit three games. The appeals system will remain the same, but they can only reduce a suspension one game, and if the appeal is lost, they must sit another game.
After all, if a pitcher intentionally throws at a batter, the pitcher's manager automatically sits one game with no appeal. Why not hold the players a little more responsible for their actions?
Lets recap: Blue Jays batter gets hit by a pitch. Bottom of the eigth, Jay's reliever Carlson throws rediculously far behind Posada. Posada has words with Carlson. Posada would later come around to score from second, and bumps into Carlson, who was coming over to backup home plate if there was a throw. Carlson takes offense, benches clear, punches are thrown. As a result, Posada and Carlson are suspended four games each, Duncan is suspended three, and there are various other fines.
Oh, you heard they were all suspended three games each? Look a little deeper.
What pretty much every news story I've seen on the subject is glossing over is the fact that they were suspended four games, then had the suspensions reduced to three BECAUSE THEY AGREED NOT TO APPEAL! Oh sure, its in the stories, but usually as a throw away line at the beginning, or at the very end where no one will notice it. And I'm left asking, whats the point? Why even bother suspending people?
Sure, baseball has some harsh penalties. If you gamble on the game, you're out for life. Fail three drug tests, and out for life. Now Mike Scioscia might be facing fines for comments about the officiating in last nights Angels-Red Sox game. But the suspensions handed down for fighting and intentionally throwing at an opponent have become the laughingstock of the sports world. A suspended pitcher can immediately sit out a five game suspensions and miss one start, or his start can be pushed back and he won't really miss any. A fielder in an important series can appeal his suspension, enabling him to continue playing until the suspension is heard. Or he can just drop his suspension when the series is over or hes scheduled for a rest anyway, and begin serving his suspension when he or his teams wants him to. Not to mention the fact that appeals are usually successful in reducing a suspension by at least a game. And now this.
What Baseball has pretty much done now is take the appeals process out of the equation. Its as if they said "We know four games is too high, so if you agree to not drag out the appeals process, we'll drop it to three." This sets an interesting precedent for suspensions in the future. Could a starting pitcher now agree to immediately sit a five game suspension, miss four instead, and not even worry about interrupting his routine? Are we headed towards a point where a batter can say "I'll take four games, but only if I can serve them during our series against Kansas City next month"? What needs to be done is finally set up a mandatory length of time for suspensions of this type. Pitchers have to miss three trips through the rotation. Batters sit three games. The appeals system will remain the same, but they can only reduce a suspension one game, and if the appeal is lost, they must sit another game.
After all, if a pitcher intentionally throws at a batter, the pitcher's manager automatically sits one game with no appeal. Why not hold the players a little more responsible for their actions?
College Football Week 3 - Thursday Night Preview
14 Georgia Tech @ 20 Miami(FL)
Favorite: Miami, -5.5
In one of Week 3's biggest games, two as-yet-unbeaten ACC - Coastal rivals battle for the lead in their division. Miami comes into this game already having beaten a ranked team, 18 FSU in Week 1. Unfortunately, that was their last game, almost two weeks ago, and it was against what now appears to have been an overrated FSU team. Georgia Tech comes off a closer-than-it-should-have-been conference win against Clemson last week. Miami put up big numbers passing against FSU. GT has already shown they have trouble stopping the pass, giving up 261 yards and 3 TDs through the air last week. So Miami QB Jacory Harris will be the wild card in this game. If he can keep up the status quo here, look for both teams to score high, but Miami to pull out the win.
Pick: Miami 38 - GT 31
Favorite: Miami, -5.5
In one of Week 3's biggest games, two as-yet-unbeaten ACC - Coastal rivals battle for the lead in their division. Miami comes into this game already having beaten a ranked team, 18 FSU in Week 1. Unfortunately, that was their last game, almost two weeks ago, and it was against what now appears to have been an overrated FSU team. Georgia Tech comes off a closer-than-it-should-have-been conference win against Clemson last week. Miami put up big numbers passing against FSU. GT has already shown they have trouble stopping the pass, giving up 261 yards and 3 TDs through the air last week. So Miami QB Jacory Harris will be the wild card in this game. If he can keep up the status quo here, look for both teams to score high, but Miami to pull out the win.
Pick: Miami 38 - GT 31
Thursday Morning News - 9/17/09
Two teenagers have been identified as the ones who vandalized Buffalo Bill Leodis McKelvin's lawn. McKelvin is not pressing charges. [SI.com]
Yankees Jorge Posada, Shelley Duncan, and Blue Jay Jesse Carlson have been suspended three games each after a bench clearing brawl Tuesday night. Other players and managers have been fined, and Duncan is appealing his suspension. [ESPN]
NCAA president Myles Brand has died of pancreatic cancer. He was 67. [USA Today]
Yankees Jorge Posada, Shelley Duncan, and Blue Jay Jesse Carlson have been suspended three games each after a bench clearing brawl Tuesday night. Other players and managers have been fined, and Duncan is appealing his suspension. [ESPN]
NCAA president Myles Brand has died of pancreatic cancer. He was 67. [USA Today]
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
NFL Week 1 Wrap-up
With Week 1 in the books, we had some surprises, some injuries, and some big returns.
Surprises:
The 49ers win in Arizona:
San Fran goes into the home of the defending NFC Champs and pulls out a 20-16 win. Are these guys for real? Probably not, but at this point it doesn't look like Arizona is either.
That TD catch by Brandon Stokely:
If you haven't seen it yet, you aren't a football fan and shouldn't be reading this post. Some fun facts about the play:
And kudos to Stokely for running along the endzone before scoring to run out the clock a little more.
The Monday Night games:
Sure, the teams that were expected to win won. But who expected them to come down to plays made in the final 2 minutes of both games? Sure, the Pats had some question marks, but the Chargers should have had a much easier time with the Raiders in the late game. It has to be said, though, that the Bills and Raiders both looked better than expected in losing efforts.
Injuries:
Brian Urlacher, LB, Bears: out for the year with a dislocated wrist
Reggie Hayward, DE, Jaguars: out for the year with a broken leg
Troy Polamalu, S, Steelers: out 3-6 with a sprained MCL
Anthony Gonzalez, WR, Colts: out an unspecified amount of time with a knee injury
Josh McCown, QB, Panthers: out for the season with knee and foot injuries Donovan McNabb, QB, Eagles: fractured rib, length of time yet to be determined
Returns:
Tom Brady:
After missing almost all of last season with a knee injury suffered in Week 1, Brady made his triumphant regular season return to Foxboro. He looked shaky for most of the game, but put together two TD drives in the fourth quarter, culminating in two TDs in the final 2:06 to squeak out a one point win.
Richard Seymour:
Seymour finally reported to Oakland on Sunday, and did, in fact, play in the Monday late game. He recorded 2 sacks in the loss.
Brett Favre:
Favre made his return to the NFC North after retiring to NY last season. The Vikings won, but Favre didn't do much more than manage the game and hand the ball to Adrian Peterson. He had one TD, to rookie Percy Harvin.
Fantasy Studs:
Week 1 Picks:
Straight up: 14-2
ATS: 11-5
o/u: 8-8
Questions for Week 2:
Who will start in Philly?:
With Donovan McNabb expected to miss at least this weeks game, the Eagles signed Jeff Garcia. Garcia says he'll be ready to play this week, since he'll be coming in with experience in the system and having spent the preseason with Oakland. But Kevin Kolb has been there the whole time and is expected to take over when McNabb is finallt done. Will Garcia be handed the start? Or will this be Kolb's time to show what he can do?
Which Jake Delhomme will show up?
Delhomme has been the guy in Carolina for a while and it's served Carolina well. They've made the playoffs in three of his six seasons with the team, including one Super Bowl appearance. But he's had 9 INTs and 2 fumbles lost in his last two games. Is this a new Jake Delhomme? Or can he get back to his old self before its too late?
Are the plug 'n' play Pats done?
Bill Belichick has made a career in New England out of taking his ofeensive and defensive system, plugging players into them, seamingly at random, and making them work. However, the starting defense lost five players that were on last years Week 1 roster. While the defense didn't look bad against the Bills, they didn't look like the defense the Pats are known for, either. Additionally, before the fourth quarter, Brady looked shaky, hesitating when he felt his surgically repaired knee would be in danger. Most are picking the Pats as the team to beat this year, but if they continue to look like they did Monday night, they'll become the team to beat up on.
Surprises:
The 49ers win in Arizona:
San Fran goes into the home of the defending NFC Champs and pulls out a 20-16 win. Are these guys for real? Probably not, but at this point it doesn't look like Arizona is either.
That TD catch by Brandon Stokely:
If you haven't seen it yet, you aren't a football fan and shouldn't be reading this post. Some fun facts about the play:
- It is the longest play from scrimmage and tied with Aaron Brown's 87 yard kick return for longest play over all this weekend
- It is the longest touchdown play so far this season
- It was Stokely's only catch of the day
- If the ball hadn't been tipped first, the play probably wouldn't have happened
And kudos to Stokely for running along the endzone before scoring to run out the clock a little more.
The Monday Night games:
Sure, the teams that were expected to win won. But who expected them to come down to plays made in the final 2 minutes of both games? Sure, the Pats had some question marks, but the Chargers should have had a much easier time with the Raiders in the late game. It has to be said, though, that the Bills and Raiders both looked better than expected in losing efforts.
Injuries:
Brian Urlacher, LB, Bears: out for the year with a dislocated wrist
Reggie Hayward, DE, Jaguars: out for the year with a broken leg
Troy Polamalu, S, Steelers: out 3-6 with a sprained MCL
Anthony Gonzalez, WR, Colts: out an unspecified amount of time with a knee injury
Josh McCown, QB, Panthers: out for the season with knee and foot injuries Donovan McNabb, QB, Eagles: fractured rib, length of time yet to be determined
Returns:
Tom Brady:
After missing almost all of last season with a knee injury suffered in Week 1, Brady made his triumphant regular season return to Foxboro. He looked shaky for most of the game, but put together two TD drives in the fourth quarter, culminating in two TDs in the final 2:06 to squeak out a one point win.
Richard Seymour:
Seymour finally reported to Oakland on Sunday, and did, in fact, play in the Monday late game. He recorded 2 sacks in the loss.
Brett Favre:
Favre made his return to the NFC North after retiring to NY last season. The Vikings won, but Favre didn't do much more than manage the game and hand the ball to Adrian Peterson. He had one TD, to rookie Percy Harvin.
Fantasy Studs:
- Drew Brees. Only a handful of people have thrown for more than 6 TDs in a game
- Adrian Peterson. Theres a reason he was picked first in almost every fantasy draft.
- Eagles D. 5 sacks, 5 INTs, 2 fumbles recovered, 2 TD. Some teams won't have stats like that after Week 3, let alone Week 1.
- Willie Parker. Healthy and expected to get the bulk of the carries this season, Parker only managed 19 yards rushing.
- Jake Delhomme. 73 passing yards, 0 TDs, 4 INTs. He was eventually benched, and theres some speculation he might not last the season.
- Jay Cutler. At least he had a TD to go with his 4 INTs.
Week 1 Picks:
Straight up: 14-2
ATS: 11-5
o/u: 8-8
Questions for Week 2:
Who will start in Philly?:
With Donovan McNabb expected to miss at least this weeks game, the Eagles signed Jeff Garcia. Garcia says he'll be ready to play this week, since he'll be coming in with experience in the system and having spent the preseason with Oakland. But Kevin Kolb has been there the whole time and is expected to take over when McNabb is finallt done. Will Garcia be handed the start? Or will this be Kolb's time to show what he can do?
Which Jake Delhomme will show up?
Delhomme has been the guy in Carolina for a while and it's served Carolina well. They've made the playoffs in three of his six seasons with the team, including one Super Bowl appearance. But he's had 9 INTs and 2 fumbles lost in his last two games. Is this a new Jake Delhomme? Or can he get back to his old self before its too late?
Are the plug 'n' play Pats done?
Bill Belichick has made a career in New England out of taking his ofeensive and defensive system, plugging players into them, seamingly at random, and making them work. However, the starting defense lost five players that were on last years Week 1 roster. While the defense didn't look bad against the Bills, they didn't look like the defense the Pats are known for, either. Additionally, before the fourth quarter, Brady looked shaky, hesitating when he felt his surgically repaired knee would be in danger. Most are picking the Pats as the team to beat this year, but if they continue to look like they did Monday night, they'll become the team to beat up on.
Tuesday Morning News - 9/15/09
Roger Federer lost the US Open men's final to 6 seed Juan Martin del Potro. Federer had won five straight US Open Championships, and 40 consecutive US Open matches. The Williams sisters also won the Women's Doubles Championship. [Huliq]
Seattle Mariner Ichiro Suzuki broke Wee Willy Keeler's record for most consecutive 200 hit seasons with a single in Sundays game against the Texas Rangers. It is his ninth straight 200 hit season. [Yahoo]
Chicago Bears LB Brian Urlacher will miss the entire NFL season after dislocating his wrist in the opener against the Green Bay Packers. [Chicago Tribune]
The Philadelphia Eagles resigned former QB Jeff Garcia. Kevin Kolb is believed to be the Week 2 starter, with Garcia backing him up until Donovan McNabb is healthy or Michael Vick is ready to play. [Philadelphia Inquirer]
Seattle Mariner Ichiro Suzuki broke Wee Willy Keeler's record for most consecutive 200 hit seasons with a single in Sundays game against the Texas Rangers. It is his ninth straight 200 hit season. [Yahoo]
Chicago Bears LB Brian Urlacher will miss the entire NFL season after dislocating his wrist in the opener against the Green Bay Packers. [Chicago Tribune]
The Philadelphia Eagles resigned former QB Jeff Garcia. Kevin Kolb is believed to be the Week 2 starter, with Garcia backing him up until Donovan McNabb is healthy or Michael Vick is ready to play. [Philadelphia Inquirer]
Monday, September 14, 2009
MNF Preview - Week 1
Buffalo Bills @ New England Patriots
Spread: Patriots, -11.5
o/u: 47.5
If you look at the headlines, you would think the Oakland Raiders are the only team with more problems than the Bills right now. They fired their offensive coordinator a little over a week ago. Their QB isn't all that good. TO missed a lot of time in the preseason. TO isn't happy with the no-huddle offense. After starting 5-0 last year, head coach Dick Jauron got a contract extension, then proceeded to go 2-9 the rest of the way, including 0-6 in the division. On the other side of the field isdivision rival New England, the most successful franchise of the last decade. Tom Brady is healthy. Bill Belichick is still head coach. They're hungry to get back in the playoffs. Buffalo doesn't stand a chance.
Pick: Patriots 42 - Bills 17
San Diego Chargers @ Oakland Raiders
Spread: Chargers, -10.5
o/u: 43
I will continue to say the Chargers are the most overrated team in the NFL until they prove me wrong. However, they play in the weakest division in football, and possibly in all of sports, and open against a division opponent. I said the Charges would go 8-8 this year, 6-0 in their division, and that prediction will start to come true tonight.
Pick: Chargers 31 - Raiders 6
Spread: Patriots, -11.5
o/u: 47.5
If you look at the headlines, you would think the Oakland Raiders are the only team with more problems than the Bills right now. They fired their offensive coordinator a little over a week ago. Their QB isn't all that good. TO missed a lot of time in the preseason. TO isn't happy with the no-huddle offense. After starting 5-0 last year, head coach Dick Jauron got a contract extension, then proceeded to go 2-9 the rest of the way, including 0-6 in the division. On the other side of the field isdivision rival New England, the most successful franchise of the last decade. Tom Brady is healthy. Bill Belichick is still head coach. They're hungry to get back in the playoffs. Buffalo doesn't stand a chance.
Pick: Patriots 42 - Bills 17
San Diego Chargers @ Oakland Raiders
Spread: Chargers, -10.5
o/u: 43
I will continue to say the Chargers are the most overrated team in the NFL until they prove me wrong. However, they play in the weakest division in football, and possibly in all of sports, and open against a division opponent. I said the Charges would go 8-8 this year, 6-0 in their division, and that prediction will start to come true tonight.
Pick: Chargers 31 - Raiders 6
NFL Sunday Recap - Week 1
The first Sunday of the NFL season saw some players with high expectations succeed, while others fell flat on their faces.
Success:
Mark Sanchez
The rookie QB played well in his NFL debut, passing for 272 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT. He played generally mistake-free ball in getting his first career win.
Drew Brees
358 yards, 6 TDs. After almost breaking Dan Marino's passing yards record and not winning league MVP last year, Brees broke his own team record for Week 1 passing yards and threw scores to five different players. Yes, it was against Detroit, but still. Damn.
Failure:
Matthew Stafford
In his NFL debut, Stafford completed less than half of his passes for no TDs and 3 INTs. Sure, he plays for the Lions, and that doesn't help, but 3 INTs isn't starting a career on the right foot.
Jay Cutler
For some reason, Bears fans and executives think Jay Cutler is a star, Super Bowl caliber QB. What he is is an INT machine, throwing 4 in his first game as a Bear. Hes on pace for 64. Good job Chicago, you got what you paid for!
Rookie Roundup: Using a complex scoring system to rank two major rookies for the season
Mark Sanchez: 18/31, 272 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, 6 rush yards, 0 sacks
Points: 18.2
Matthew Stafford: 16/37, 205 yards, 0 TD, 3 INT, 0 rush yards, 1 sack, 1 rushing TD
Points: -2.75
Week 1 Winner: Sanchez
Next week Sanchez's Jets are home against New England and Stafford's Lions are home for Brett Favre's Vikings.
What have we learned?: Three things we can take away from this weekend
1. Not much. Its Week 1. Of 16 quarters of preseason play, starters have probably been in about 6-7 of them. Week 1 is the real first look at how teams are playing, and you really can't get a full picture of a team until around Week 3, in my opinion.
2. You can't win NFL MVP in Week 1. But Drew Brees tried. And so did Adrian Peterson(180 yards, 3 TDs).
3. Donovan McNabb needs to keep eating his chunky soup. Hes expected to miss at least Week 2, making this the seventh of 11 season McNabb has missed a game. Maybe the chunky soup isn't working. Can anyone get this man in a "Got Milk?" ad? Oh wait, nevermind:
Success:
Mark Sanchez
The rookie QB played well in his NFL debut, passing for 272 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT. He played generally mistake-free ball in getting his first career win.
Drew Brees
358 yards, 6 TDs. After almost breaking Dan Marino's passing yards record and not winning league MVP last year, Brees broke his own team record for Week 1 passing yards and threw scores to five different players. Yes, it was against Detroit, but still. Damn.
Failure:
Matthew Stafford
In his NFL debut, Stafford completed less than half of his passes for no TDs and 3 INTs. Sure, he plays for the Lions, and that doesn't help, but 3 INTs isn't starting a career on the right foot.
Jay Cutler
For some reason, Bears fans and executives think Jay Cutler is a star, Super Bowl caliber QB. What he is is an INT machine, throwing 4 in his first game as a Bear. Hes on pace for 64. Good job Chicago, you got what you paid for!
Rookie Roundup: Using a complex scoring system to rank two major rookies for the season
Mark Sanchez: 18/31, 272 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, 6 rush yards, 0 sacks
Points: 18.2
Matthew Stafford: 16/37, 205 yards, 0 TD, 3 INT, 0 rush yards, 1 sack, 1 rushing TD
Points: -2.75
Week 1 Winner: Sanchez
Next week Sanchez's Jets are home against New England and Stafford's Lions are home for Brett Favre's Vikings.
What have we learned?: Three things we can take away from this weekend
1. Not much. Its Week 1. Of 16 quarters of preseason play, starters have probably been in about 6-7 of them. Week 1 is the real first look at how teams are playing, and you really can't get a full picture of a team until around Week 3, in my opinion.
2. You can't win NFL MVP in Week 1. But Drew Brees tried. And so did Adrian Peterson(180 yards, 3 TDs).
3. Donovan McNabb needs to keep eating his chunky soup. Hes expected to miss at least Week 2, making this the seventh of 11 season McNabb has missed a game. Maybe the chunky soup isn't working. Can anyone get this man in a "Got Milk?" ad? Oh wait, nevermind:
Monday Morning News - 9/14/09
The speculation that Michael Crabtree will sit out the entire season will continue another 10 weeks. [PFT]
Kim Clijsters is the first mother to win a major since 1980, beating Caroline Wozniacki at the US Open. [CBS News]
Serena Williams has been fine $10,000 for her tirade and $500 for racket abuse in her match against Kim Clijsters. [NYDN]
Tiger Woods won the BMW Championship by 8 strokes, and now has a 1504 point lead in the FedEx Cup standings over Steve Stricker. [NY Times]
Kim Clijsters is the first mother to win a major since 1980, beating Caroline Wozniacki at the US Open. [CBS News]
Serena Williams has been fine $10,000 for her tirade and $500 for racket abuse in her match against Kim Clijsters. [NYDN]
Tiger Woods won the BMW Championship by 8 strokes, and now has a 1504 point lead in the FedEx Cup standings over Steve Stricker. [NY Times]
Sunday, September 13, 2009
MY 25 - Week 2
There is probably nothing in sports I disagree with more than the BCS and college football poll system. With that in mind, each week I'll be naming my own Top 25. The only hard and fast rule of MY 25: overall records come first.
1. Alabama
2. USC
3. Boise St
4. BYU
5. Houston
6. Florida
7. Texas
8. Cal
9. Penn St
10. Georgia Tech
11. Michigan
12. BC
13. Utah
14. LSU
15. Nebraska
16. Kansas
17. Cincinnati
18. Iowa
19. UCLA
20. Auburn
21. Mizzou
22. Pitt
23. Texas Tech
24. UNC
25. Minnesota
Performance of the Week: Houston Cougars
With Oklahoma State ranked fifth in the nation and coming off a huge win at home against Georgia, the Houston Cougars had their work cut out for them. They would have to go on the road and beat a Top 5 opponent, something they hadn't done since beating No. 3 Texas in 1984. Houston took control early, only to see OSU come back. But in a game full of mistakes by OSU, Houston was ready to take fully advantage, twice coming back from 4 point deficits to finally win, 45-35.
1. Alabama
2. USC
3. Boise St
4. BYU
5. Houston
6. Florida
7. Texas
8. Cal
9. Penn St
10. Georgia Tech
11. Michigan
12. BC
13. Utah
14. LSU
15. Nebraska
16. Kansas
17. Cincinnati
18. Iowa
19. UCLA
20. Auburn
21. Mizzou
22. Pitt
23. Texas Tech
24. UNC
25. Minnesota
Performance of the Week: Houston Cougars
With Oklahoma State ranked fifth in the nation and coming off a huge win at home against Georgia, the Houston Cougars had their work cut out for them. They would have to go on the road and beat a Top 5 opponent, something they hadn't done since beating No. 3 Texas in 1984. Houston took control early, only to see OSU come back. But in a game full of mistakes by OSU, Houston was ready to take fully advantage, twice coming back from 4 point deficits to finally win, 45-35.
The Sunday News - 9/13/09
NHL trade news: San Jose Sharks get Danny Heatley and a fifth round pick, Ottawa Senators get Milan Michalek, Jonathan Cheechoo, and a second round pick. [SI.com]
USC wins, Notre Dame loses, both on late TDs. [USA Today, Washington Post]
Denny Hamlin wins the Chevy Rock & Roll 400 and the Chase field is set. Kyle Busch tied Mark Martin for most regular season wins this year, but doesn't make the Chase. I thought they changed the rules so that sort of thing didn't happen? [Daily Press]
Serena Williams was eliminated from the US Open after being deducted a point for a profanity laced tirade at a line judge who called a foot fault on her. [MyFOXNY.com]
Theo Fleury, 41, has been reinstated by the NHL and invited to training camp by the Calgary Flames. [Chicago Tribune]
USC wins, Notre Dame loses, both on late TDs. [USA Today, Washington Post]
Denny Hamlin wins the Chevy Rock & Roll 400 and the Chase field is set. Kyle Busch tied Mark Martin for most regular season wins this year, but doesn't make the Chase. I thought they changed the rules so that sort of thing didn't happen? [Daily Press]
Serena Williams was eliminated from the US Open after being deducted a point for a profanity laced tirade at a line judge who called a foot fault on her. [MyFOXNY.com]
Theo Fleury, 41, has been reinstated by the NHL and invited to training camp by the Calgary Flames. [Chicago Tribune]
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Why Notre Dame Lost to Michigan
Michigan just beat Notre Dame 38-34 on a touchdown with 11 seconds left on the clock. But even before that last play, three things told me Notre Dame would lose this game. They are:
Tate Forcier
I admit I may have been wrong about this kid. ND threw pressure at him all day long, and with few exceptions, he went past it, around it, or over it. Its hard to stop someone when they can make a deep pass, break a long run with one cut, and drop a pooch punt inside the 5 yard line all in the same game.
The Officiating
Forgetting the clock situation at the end of the game, which was probably correct, the officials were blowing calls all game long, mostly in Michigan's favor. I'm not saying they were playing favorites or anything, because ND got some questionable calls in their favor, too, but multiple times Michigan should have been flagged for pass interference and it wasn't called. Its hard to get a passing game going when the defender has his arm wrapped around the receivers like they're dating.
Charlie Weis's Play Calling
Nothing doomed ND's chances more than this. ND went for the sideline pass all day, and it didn't work. Then, late in the game and trailing by 5, they went for it twice on back to back plays. Both times it didn't work, the second time ending with Michael Floyd, the teams leading receiver in the game, getting hurt. They would take a 4 point lead on the drive, and would get the ball back. Then, after Armando Allen rushed for a first down, Robert Hughes was stuffed on 1st down with less than three minutes left to play. On 2nd and long, they went for the sideline pass. It didn't work. The next play would also be an incomplete pass. The resulting punt would give Michigan good field position, more than 2 minutes left in the game, and 2 time outs. After the game, Weis was asked about the play choice on that last position, and he claimed that pass had been working for them all day. I'm sorry, but I remember it not working a lot more than it worked. I also remember inside running plays working late in the game. After Hughes was stuffed, Weis said he saw a change in the defense, that they were stacking the box to take away the run. I don't doubt him. However, theres no excuse for not at least calling an outside run there. In my opinion, giving Michigan the ball with that much time and two time outs was what ultimately led to ND losing this game.
Tate Forcier
I admit I may have been wrong about this kid. ND threw pressure at him all day long, and with few exceptions, he went past it, around it, or over it. Its hard to stop someone when they can make a deep pass, break a long run with one cut, and drop a pooch punt inside the 5 yard line all in the same game.
The Officiating
Forgetting the clock situation at the end of the game, which was probably correct, the officials were blowing calls all game long, mostly in Michigan's favor. I'm not saying they were playing favorites or anything, because ND got some questionable calls in their favor, too, but multiple times Michigan should have been flagged for pass interference and it wasn't called. Its hard to get a passing game going when the defender has his arm wrapped around the receivers like they're dating.
Charlie Weis's Play Calling
Nothing doomed ND's chances more than this. ND went for the sideline pass all day, and it didn't work. Then, late in the game and trailing by 5, they went for it twice on back to back plays. Both times it didn't work, the second time ending with Michael Floyd, the teams leading receiver in the game, getting hurt. They would take a 4 point lead on the drive, and would get the ball back. Then, after Armando Allen rushed for a first down, Robert Hughes was stuffed on 1st down with less than three minutes left to play. On 2nd and long, they went for the sideline pass. It didn't work. The next play would also be an incomplete pass. The resulting punt would give Michigan good field position, more than 2 minutes left in the game, and 2 time outs. After the game, Weis was asked about the play choice on that last position, and he claimed that pass had been working for them all day. I'm sorry, but I remember it not working a lot more than it worked. I also remember inside running plays working late in the game. After Hughes was stuffed, Weis said he saw a change in the defense, that they were stacking the box to take away the run. I don't doubt him. However, theres no excuse for not at least calling an outside run there. In my opinion, giving Michigan the ball with that much time and two time outs was what ultimately led to ND losing this game.
NFL Week 1 Preview
NY Jets @ Houston Texans
Spread: Houston, -4.5
o/u: 44
The Jets go into this season with a revamped defense, but not much new on offense, save rookie QB Matt Sanchez. He'll be throwing to a talented but not spectacular group of WR, which no longer includes includes Laveranues Coles. Also, the Jets D has been overall inconsistent the past few years, being near the top in the league vs the pass and the bottom vs the run one year, and the opposite the next. Rookie head coach Rex Ryan is looking to finally put it together. His problem in Week 1 is the Texans offensive weapons. He'll have to find ways to stop both RB Steve Slaton and WR Andre Johnson, who led the AFC in receptions and yards last season. On paper, Houston's defense looks improved, but I'm not buying it just yet.
Pick: Jets 24 - Texans 21
Spread: Houston, -4.5
o/u: 44
The Jets go into this season with a revamped defense, but not much new on offense, save rookie QB Matt Sanchez. He'll be throwing to a talented but not spectacular group of WR, which no longer includes includes Laveranues Coles. Also, the Jets D has been overall inconsistent the past few years, being near the top in the league vs the pass and the bottom vs the run one year, and the opposite the next. Rookie head coach Rex Ryan is looking to finally put it together. His problem in Week 1 is the Texans offensive weapons. He'll have to find ways to stop both RB Steve Slaton and WR Andre Johnson, who led the AFC in receptions and yards last season. On paper, Houston's defense looks improved, but I'm not buying it just yet.
Pick: Jets 24 - Texans 21
Saturday Morning News - 9/12/09
ESPN is reporting that Richard Seymour is expected to report to Oakland as early as today, and could play in Monday's game against San Diego. [ESPN]
Derek Jeter went 2-4 in a 10-4 loss to the Orioles, breaking Lou Gehrig's record for most hits by a Yankee with a leadoff single to right in the third inning. [MLB.com]
Kevin and Pat Williams will be allowed to play this season. A federal appeals court has ruled they cannot be suspended until the completion of a civil trial, which will not take place until after the current season. [StarTribune.com]
Three 19th ranked UNC players, including starting FB Bobby Rome, are believed to have Swine Flu. Rome and third string DT Jordan Nix, who would have normally been with the team, did not travel for todays game against UCONN. [The News & Observer]
Derek Jeter went 2-4 in a 10-4 loss to the Orioles, breaking Lou Gehrig's record for most hits by a Yankee with a leadoff single to right in the third inning. [MLB.com]
Kevin and Pat Williams will be allowed to play this season. A federal appeals court has ruled they cannot be suspended until the completion of a civil trial, which will not take place until after the current season. [StarTribune.com]
Three 19th ranked UNC players, including starting FB Bobby Rome, are believed to have Swine Flu. Rome and third string DT Jordan Nix, who would have normally been with the team, did not travel for todays game against UCONN. [The News & Observer]
Friday, September 11, 2009
Merriman Free!
The San Diego DA has dismissed all charges against Charger Shawne Merriman because of lack of evidence.
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College Footbal Week 2 - Important Matchups
It is hard to call any game important this early in a season, but this week there are two games with some signifigance to them:
3 USC at 8 Ohio State
Favorite: USC, -7
Things in sports tend to be cyclical. Teams are usually great for a couple of years, then decent for a year, then bad for a couple years, then decent, and back to at least good. There are a couple of exceptions to this in recent years: the NY Yankees, the Indianapolis Colts, and, of course, USC football. The Trojans seems to always be in the top-5, and always in title talk, both before and after the season. This is in no small part thanks to Pete Carroll's scouting ability and pro-style schemes. One team that is not an exception is Ohio State. After having major success over the past decade(one undefeated season, a National Championship, and five Big 10 conference championships), the Buckeyes finally look like a team on the decline. Their weaknesses showed last week, barely beating Navy, 31-27. You can be sure Coach Carroll was paying attention.
Pick: USC 31 - Ohio State 13
18 Notre Dame at Michigan
Favorite: Notre Dame, -3
The annual Week 2 meeting of these teams this year takes on added importance, as both teams now look like teams on the rise. Opening week blowouts for both teams have fans hopeful for the rest of the season. For Michigan, head coach Rich Rodriguez has been surrounded by controversy in the off-season, and has been feeling the pressure after going 3-9 in his first season with the Wolverines. The announcement he would rotate QBs throughout the game didn't win him any more fans, especially when coupled with the fact true freshman Tate Forcier would be the starter. The decision payed off, however, as all three QBs looked good as the team won 31-7 over Western Michigan. Notre Dame, however, seems to be a step ahead of Michigan. Last years 6-6 regular season record led to a 41-29 Sheraton Hawaii Bowl win over Hawaii. In that game, then-sophmore Jimmy Clausen and the Irish offense broke 9 Notre Dame bowl game records, including Clausen's 401 passing yards and the teams 478 yards of total offense. Those are stats ND, who started the season ranked 23, is looking to build on.
Pick: ND 31 - Michigan 21
3 USC at 8 Ohio State
Favorite: USC, -7
Things in sports tend to be cyclical. Teams are usually great for a couple of years, then decent for a year, then bad for a couple years, then decent, and back to at least good. There are a couple of exceptions to this in recent years: the NY Yankees, the Indianapolis Colts, and, of course, USC football. The Trojans seems to always be in the top-5, and always in title talk, both before and after the season. This is in no small part thanks to Pete Carroll's scouting ability and pro-style schemes. One team that is not an exception is Ohio State. After having major success over the past decade(one undefeated season, a National Championship, and five Big 10 conference championships), the Buckeyes finally look like a team on the decline. Their weaknesses showed last week, barely beating Navy, 31-27. You can be sure Coach Carroll was paying attention.
Pick: USC 31 - Ohio State 13
18 Notre Dame at Michigan
Favorite: Notre Dame, -3
The annual Week 2 meeting of these teams this year takes on added importance, as both teams now look like teams on the rise. Opening week blowouts for both teams have fans hopeful for the rest of the season. For Michigan, head coach Rich Rodriguez has been surrounded by controversy in the off-season, and has been feeling the pressure after going 3-9 in his first season with the Wolverines. The announcement he would rotate QBs throughout the game didn't win him any more fans, especially when coupled with the fact true freshman Tate Forcier would be the starter. The decision payed off, however, as all three QBs looked good as the team won 31-7 over Western Michigan. Notre Dame, however, seems to be a step ahead of Michigan. Last years 6-6 regular season record led to a 41-29 Sheraton Hawaii Bowl win over Hawaii. In that game, then-sophmore Jimmy Clausen and the Irish offense broke 9 Notre Dame bowl game records, including Clausen's 401 passing yards and the teams 478 yards of total offense. Those are stats ND, who started the season ranked 23, is looking to build on.
Pick: ND 31 - Michigan 21
Friday Magic Numbers
With 24 days left in the MLB season, here are the weekly magic numbers:
AL East:
NY Yankees, +9 on Boston: 14
AL Central:
Detroit, +5.5 on Minnesota: 18
AL West:
LA Angels, +5 on Texas: 19
AL Wild Card:
Boston, +2 on Texas: 22
NL East:
Philadelphi, +5 on Florida: 19
NL Central:
St. Louis, +11.5 on Chicago: 12
NL West:
LA Dodgers, +2 on Colorado: 20
NL Wild Card:
Colorado, +4.5 on San Francisco: 18
An incredibly unlikely scenario this week: St. Louis could potentially clinch the NL Central with a 5-1 stretch this week if the Cubs were to go 0-7, Houston loses two games, and Milwaukee loses one.
AL East:
NY Yankees, +9 on Boston: 14
AL Central:
Detroit, +5.5 on Minnesota: 18
AL West:
LA Angels, +5 on Texas: 19
AL Wild Card:
Boston, +2 on Texas: 22
NL East:
Philadelphi, +5 on Florida: 19
NL Central:
St. Louis, +11.5 on Chicago: 12
NL West:
LA Dodgers, +2 on Colorado: 20
NL Wild Card:
Colorado, +4.5 on San Francisco: 18
An incredibly unlikely scenario this week: St. Louis could potentially clinch the NL Central with a 5-1 stretch this week if the Cubs were to go 0-7, Houston loses two games, and Milwaukee loses one.
Friday Morning News - 9/11/09
The Pittsburgh Steelers beat the Tennessee Titans, 13-10, in overtime, to kickoff the 2009 NFL season. Steelers safety Troy Polamalu has already fallen victim to the Madden Curse, spraining his MCL on a blocked field goal. He is expected to miss 3-6 weeks. [Titans Radio]
The Oakland Raiders have denied an ESPN story stating they sent a letter to Richard Seymour demanding he report to the team in 5 days or be suspended. [The Huddle]
The NY Jets are being investigated by the NFL after Brett Farve made comments Wednesday stating the Jets knew about his torn biceps tendon, kept him off the weekly injury report, and made him play anyway. Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum has admitted to mishandling the injury, while former head coach Eric Mangini has said the injury report was filled out within the league rules. [Bleacher Report]
Richard Petty Motorsports and Yates Racing will merge teams after the current NASCAR season ends. The new 4-car team will drive Fords, last associated with Richard Petty when he drove one to nine victories in the 1969 season. [Detroit Free Press]
John Force has been fined $10,000 by the NHRA for making contact with an official during the post-race incident with Tony Pedregon. Rumors on racing message boards also say Force has shot down any chance of a $20,000 grudge match taking place at Carolinas Nationals. [Indy.com]
The Oakland Raiders have denied an ESPN story stating they sent a letter to Richard Seymour demanding he report to the team in 5 days or be suspended. [The Huddle]
The NY Jets are being investigated by the NFL after Brett Farve made comments Wednesday stating the Jets knew about his torn biceps tendon, kept him off the weekly injury report, and made him play anyway. Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum has admitted to mishandling the injury, while former head coach Eric Mangini has said the injury report was filled out within the league rules. [Bleacher Report]
Richard Petty Motorsports and Yates Racing will merge teams after the current NASCAR season ends. The new 4-car team will drive Fords, last associated with Richard Petty when he drove one to nine victories in the 1969 season. [Detroit Free Press]
John Force has been fined $10,000 by the NHRA for making contact with an official during the post-race incident with Tony Pedregon. Rumors on racing message boards also say Force has shot down any chance of a $20,000 grudge match taking place at Carolinas Nationals. [Indy.com]
Thursday, September 10, 2009
NFL Kickoff Preview: Titans at Steelers
The 2009 NFL Kickoff game features an interesting match-up: the Super Bowl Champion Steelers take on the Tennessee Titans, the last team to beat Pittsburgh. The Titans will look to improve on last years AFC Divisional Round loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Their solid, fully returning offensive line will certainly help, as QB Kerry Collins isn't getting any younger. But their defense, one of the leagues best last year, has me concerned. The loss of 350 lb tackle Albert Haynesworth leaves a big hole up the middle. DEs Kyle Vanden Bosch, who only played 10 games last year, and Jevon Kearse, who played a full 16 last season for the first time since 2001, are on the wrong side of 30. Pittsburgh has never been a team to shy away from the run, and with Willie Parker and Rashard Mendenhall healthy, they'll test Tennessee's linemen often. Pittsburgh also has an aging defense, but one that has many years experience playing with Pittsburgh exclusively, and is mostly young at their most improtant position, LB. Its the experience that will keep Collins from making big plays, and Lendale White from breaking big gains.
Pick: Steelers 21-Titans 13
Pick: Steelers 21-Titans 13
NFL Season Picks
My picks for the 2009 NFL season: (Next year, I'll be posting full previews of the upcoming season)
AFC:
East: New England Patriots
North: Pittsburgh Steelers
South: Indianapolis Colts
West: San Diego Chargers
Wild Card teams: Baltimore Ravens, Miami Dolphins
NFC:
East: Philadelphia Eagles
North: Green Bay Packers
South: New Orleans Saints
West: Seattle Seahawks
Wild Card teams: New York Giants, Atlanta Falcons
Super Bowl:
Eagles vs Patriots, Eagles win
AFC:
East: New England Patriots
North: Pittsburgh Steelers
South: Indianapolis Colts
West: San Diego Chargers
Wild Card teams: Baltimore Ravens, Miami Dolphins
NFC:
East: Philadelphia Eagles
North: Green Bay Packers
South: New Orleans Saints
West: Seattle Seahawks
Wild Card teams: New York Giants, Atlanta Falcons
Super Bowl:
Eagles vs Patriots, Eagles win
Thursday Morning News - 9/10/09
Notre Dame fans have another reason to rejoice this week. Former ND QB Brady Quinn has reportedly been named the started for the Cleveland Browns. [Bleacher Report]
Derek Jeter broke a three game 0-16 slide, going 3-4 to tie Lou Gehrig' record for most hits by a Yankee. [Newsday]
Allen Iverson has agreed in principle to a one-year, $3.5 million contract to play for the Memphis Grizzlies. A news conference is scheduled for this morning. [NY Times]
Derek Jeter broke a three game 0-16 slide, going 3-4 to tie Lou Gehrig' record for most hits by a Yankee. [Newsday]
Allen Iverson has agreed in principle to a one-year, $3.5 million contract to play for the Memphis Grizzlies. A news conference is scheduled for this morning. [NY Times]
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
The Clock Strikes Midnight
US Open Cinderella story Melanie Oudin has lost to 9th seed Caroline Wozniaki, 6-2, 6-2.
Force vs Pedregon at NHRA Carolinas Nationals?
In case you missed it over the weekend, Robert Hight beat John Force in the semifinals of the NHRA US Nationals, putting Hight's car in the final spot for the 10 car Funny Car Countdown to 1, and knocking Cruz Pedregon's car out in the process. Immediately after the race, Cruz's brother, Tony Pedregon, accused Force of intentionally losing to Hight, whose car Force owns, to get Hight into to the Countdown. The two men argued on the track and nearly came to blows. Now, the fight may be coming to its logical conclusion: Speedway Motorsports(SMI) President Marcus Smith is offering $20,000 to the winner of a single race grudge match between the two drivers, to be held at the NHRA Carolinas Nationals on September 18. But will it happen?
John Force and the Pedregon brothers are some of NHRA's biggest names. Since 1990, Force and the Pedregons have won every NHRA Funny Car season championship except 2005, which was won by Gary Scelzi. Of that 18 championships, Force has won 14, with the Pedregons taking two each. Force doesn't need the money or the publicity from this race. Tony owns his own car, and while he seems to be doing well for himself this season on the surface, in this economy you never know what could be going on financially behind the scenes. Still, I don't think he really needs the money or publicity, either. And while John Force has been known to let his pride get in the way sometimes, he is also an excellent businessman, and I can't see him putting his car through a race simply to prove a point. SMI, however, may be in need of some help.
In case you don't know, SMI is a motorsports promoter based in Concord, NC. They own tracks raced on by NASCAR and NHRA throughout the US. With the NASCAR boom of the last decade, they did wonderfully for themselves, and can boast "the highest average number of seats per speedway in the motorsports industry." But along with the economy, their stock prices have been steadily falling since a high of over $40 in May of 2007. In early August, it was announced Lowe's would not be renewing its sponsorship of Lowe's Motor Speedway, which is owned by SMI. Coincidentally, zMax Dragway at Lowe's Motor Speedway is the site of the Carolinas Nationals. Just by announcing the possibility of this race, Marcus Smith has brought much needed publicity to himself, SMI, NHRA, the Carolinas Nationals, and Lowe's Motor Speedway.
So could this race actually happen? Sure. As I already stated, neither man needs the publicity, but Force has never shied away from it either. Another thing neither man shies away from is charity. Give the $20,000 to the charity of the winners choice, and you could have a deal. And maybe don't make it a drag race. Force is the type to never turn down a chance to win something. Then again, both drivers could decide to just settle things in NHRA competition. Either way, expect sparks between the two for some time to come.
John Force and the Pedregon brothers are some of NHRA's biggest names. Since 1990, Force and the Pedregons have won every NHRA Funny Car season championship except 2005, which was won by Gary Scelzi. Of that 18 championships, Force has won 14, with the Pedregons taking two each. Force doesn't need the money or the publicity from this race. Tony owns his own car, and while he seems to be doing well for himself this season on the surface, in this economy you never know what could be going on financially behind the scenes. Still, I don't think he really needs the money or publicity, either. And while John Force has been known to let his pride get in the way sometimes, he is also an excellent businessman, and I can't see him putting his car through a race simply to prove a point. SMI, however, may be in need of some help.
In case you don't know, SMI is a motorsports promoter based in Concord, NC. They own tracks raced on by NASCAR and NHRA throughout the US. With the NASCAR boom of the last decade, they did wonderfully for themselves, and can boast "the highest average number of seats per speedway in the motorsports industry." But along with the economy, their stock prices have been steadily falling since a high of over $40 in May of 2007. In early August, it was announced Lowe's would not be renewing its sponsorship of Lowe's Motor Speedway, which is owned by SMI. Coincidentally, zMax Dragway at Lowe's Motor Speedway is the site of the Carolinas Nationals. Just by announcing the possibility of this race, Marcus Smith has brought much needed publicity to himself, SMI, NHRA, the Carolinas Nationals, and Lowe's Motor Speedway.
So could this race actually happen? Sure. As I already stated, neither man needs the publicity, but Force has never shied away from it either. Another thing neither man shies away from is charity. Give the $20,000 to the charity of the winners choice, and you could have a deal. And maybe don't make it a drag race. Force is the type to never turn down a chance to win something. Then again, both drivers could decide to just settle things in NHRA competition. Either way, expect sparks between the two for some time to come.
Wednesday Morning News - 9/9/09
Minnesota Vikings Kevin and Pat Williams will be allowed to play this weekend as the players and the NFL await a ruling on the Williams's lawsuit over the league's PED testing policy. [TwinCities.com]
Jeremy Mayfield has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against his step-mother in the suicide death of his father. [FanHouse]
Jeremy Mayfield has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against his step-mother in the suicide death of his father. [FanHouse]
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Danny Woodhead Still a Jet
Woodhead, who initially made the Jets 53-man roster and was then cut on Sunday, has cleared waivers and been signed to the Jets practice squad.
A Tale of Worst and Best: Analyzing the Richard Seymour Trade
On Sunday, the New England Patriots announced they were trading five time Pro Bowler Richard Seymour to the Oakland Raider for their 2011 first round pick. On the outside, this looks like a simple trade between two storied NFL franchises. But dig a little deeper and you'll find this trade embodies what makes Oakland one of the most disfunctional team in sports, and what makes New England the best run franchise in sports history.
A lot has been said about the Detroit Lions in recent years. The Matt Millen Era was not kind to them, and their 0-16 record in 2008 probably makes them the worst franchise in football right now. But don't overlook the Raiders. Since 2002, a year they finished with an 11-5 record and lost the Super Bowl, the Raiders have consistently mismanaged their team.They have consistently mismanaged their roster. They have consistently overpaid for players. They have consistently had the most disfunctional front office in sports. And they have consistently lost. Their five loses in 2002 equals the most wins they've had since that Super Bowl season, winning five games in 2004 and 2008. And you just have to look at the last 12 months to prove it.
A year ago today, the Raiders faced the Denver Broncos in the first game of the regular season. They had finished the preseason 1-3, but had high hopes believing this would be JaMarcus Russell would have a break out year and the running game would improve with rookie Darren McFadden. They would lose that game, 41-14. Less than a month later, with their record at 1-3, with that one win coming against the eventually 2-14 Kansas City Chiefs, Raiders owner Al Davis would head coach Lane Kiffin, sparking an odd, he said-he said situation in which Davis claimed Kiffin had done as head coach the opposite of what he promised before getting hired, and Kiffin charging Davis with undermining his ability to coach by trying to make team decisions without consulting Kiffin. O-line coach Tom Cable would handle the rest of the season in an interim capacity.
Under Cable, the Raiders went 4-8, getting shut out by Atlanta and losing to the previously mentioned Chiefs along the way. Cable would take great criticism towards the end of the season for his limiting of McFadden's playing time. McFadden would finish the season with only 499 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns. Russell, the first overall pick in the 2007 draft, would finish with 2,423 passing yards, 13 TDs, and 8 INTs in 15 games. Cable would be named full-time head coach.
The 2009 NFL Draft would again give fans high hopes, with the team having the 7th ovarall pick. The Raiders would select WR Darrius Heyward-Bey, largely considered the third best receiver in the draft but the first one selected. They would go on to select an SS, another WR, a TE, and three DEs, in rounds 3, 4, and 6. Also, the signing of Jeff Garcia had been looked at as a positive, since he would push Russell to improve, and would potentially compete for the starting job.
Since the draft, its been business as usual. Heyward-Bey went through OTAs hampered by hamstring problems. Training camp kicked off with an assistant coach injured by Tom Cable, in what has been variously reported as either Cable knocking over the chair the coach was sitting in or Cable flat-out punching the man. Jeff Garcia, who many hoped would add veteran leadership to the team and might mentor Russell along, was cut amid specualtion that Davis didn't want anything threatening Russell's position as starter. Those three DEs? Only one, third round pick Matt Shaughnessy, is still with the team. And now they've traded for DE/DT Seymour.
By contrast, New England has been the model of how to run a franchise, in any sport. Since the Raiders last went to the Super Bowl, the Patriots have been to three, won two of them, and have had double-digit wins each year. But their dominance goes far beyond that, down to a fundamental level that no other team has equaled.
The Year 2000 brought two important changes to New England. That year would be Bill Belichick's first as Pats head coach. That same year, Belichick would use the 199th pick in the draft to select Michigan QB Tom Brady, a player who struggled in his first two seasons in college, but started his last two. Individually, that season would be statistical opposites for both men. Belichick largely struggled, finishing with the same 5-11 record he had in his last season as head coach, five years earlier with the Cleveland Browns. Brady would begin the year as the fourth string QB, but would consistently improve, ending it as Drew Bledsoe's backup. It would be that improvement that would show the NFL how good the Patriots were the following season.
In the second game of 2001, a 10-3 loss to the NY Jets, Bledsoe would be hospitalized with internal bleeding, the result of a viscious hit by LB Mo Lewis. Brady, with career stats of 1-for-3 passing for 6 yards, would take over as starter. With Brady as starter, the Pats would go 11-3, winning their first Super Bowl. Brady would be named Super Bowl MVP. Over that same span to the present, the Pats have a 97-31 record, a 3-1 Super Bowl record, and the leagues only 16-0 regular season in history. With Brady lost of the season in the first game of 2008, backup Matt Cassell, who hadn't started since high school, would take over. Belichick played to his teams strengths that year, finishing 11-5 and barely missing the playoffs, thanks in large part to the resurgent Miami Dolphins, now run by Belichick's mentor, Bill Parcells.
Belichick's genius isn't just in the draft and on the field. Its in his ability to perceive talent overall, and his ability to look at the long term results. Belichick plays no favorites when it comes to his roster. His ability to see a player in his decline and get rid of him before it hurts the team is uncanny, maybe second only to the Indianapolis Colts. And his ability to get top value in trades is second to none. Despite having some of top records in the league each of the last eight years, the Pats have had a pick in the top half of the first round twice, five of their eight first round picks came via trade, and all of their first round picks have been hugely productive players for them. All except 2002 pick TE Daniel Graham are still with the team.
It is with this trade that the greatest comparison between the teams can be made. It first has to be looked at as what each team loses in the trade. Oakland loses their 2011 first round pick. A first round pick is a hot commodity for any team, doubly so for one that has been struggling. And to give up a pick two years down the road shows ownership expects to win with a team that hasn't proven itself. New England loses Richard Seymour. As stated, Seymour was a five time Pro Bowler. Despite tying a career high with 8 sacks last season, his stats have largely declined, along with his health. He injured his knee in 2005, and ended his 2008 season with a back injury before their final game. A QB or WR might be able to come back from those injuries, but when you're a DL listed a 6'6", 310lbs, and about to turn 30, injuries tend to linger. And a player that size with knee and back problems has to be a concern. His huge salary didn't help the situation.
So what does each team gain? Oakland immediatly improves their defense. They get a player that will make them better in the short term. Even with lingering injuries, Seymour is better than anyone else on the Raiders d-line. But there are no long term gains. After 30, injury or no, most NFL players skills decline. Seymour turns 30 next month. This is also the final year of his contract, and he has shown hes not afraid to hold out for more money(Seymour has already failed to show up at Raiders practice, though they claim its because he needs to work some things out with the Pats before he gets there). Even with Oaklands history of overspending, this could be Seymours only season there. By contrast, New England improves in the long term. There are no obvious holes in the team right now, so a high draft pick in 2010 isn't needed. However, with the CBA nearing its experation, young, cheap players may become an even bigger commodity after 2010. This one trade may have ensured Oakland's future failure and New England's future success for years to come.
A lot has been said about the Detroit Lions in recent years. The Matt Millen Era was not kind to them, and their 0-16 record in 2008 probably makes them the worst franchise in football right now. But don't overlook the Raiders. Since 2002, a year they finished with an 11-5 record and lost the Super Bowl, the Raiders have consistently mismanaged their team.They have consistently mismanaged their roster. They have consistently overpaid for players. They have consistently had the most disfunctional front office in sports. And they have consistently lost. Their five loses in 2002 equals the most wins they've had since that Super Bowl season, winning five games in 2004 and 2008. And you just have to look at the last 12 months to prove it.
A year ago today, the Raiders faced the Denver Broncos in the first game of the regular season. They had finished the preseason 1-3, but had high hopes believing this would be JaMarcus Russell would have a break out year and the running game would improve with rookie Darren McFadden. They would lose that game, 41-14. Less than a month later, with their record at 1-3, with that one win coming against the eventually 2-14 Kansas City Chiefs, Raiders owner Al Davis would head coach Lane Kiffin, sparking an odd, he said-he said situation in which Davis claimed Kiffin had done as head coach the opposite of what he promised before getting hired, and Kiffin charging Davis with undermining his ability to coach by trying to make team decisions without consulting Kiffin. O-line coach Tom Cable would handle the rest of the season in an interim capacity.
Under Cable, the Raiders went 4-8, getting shut out by Atlanta and losing to the previously mentioned Chiefs along the way. Cable would take great criticism towards the end of the season for his limiting of McFadden's playing time. McFadden would finish the season with only 499 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns. Russell, the first overall pick in the 2007 draft, would finish with 2,423 passing yards, 13 TDs, and 8 INTs in 15 games. Cable would be named full-time head coach.
The 2009 NFL Draft would again give fans high hopes, with the team having the 7th ovarall pick. The Raiders would select WR Darrius Heyward-Bey, largely considered the third best receiver in the draft but the first one selected. They would go on to select an SS, another WR, a TE, and three DEs, in rounds 3, 4, and 6. Also, the signing of Jeff Garcia had been looked at as a positive, since he would push Russell to improve, and would potentially compete for the starting job.
Since the draft, its been business as usual. Heyward-Bey went through OTAs hampered by hamstring problems. Training camp kicked off with an assistant coach injured by Tom Cable, in what has been variously reported as either Cable knocking over the chair the coach was sitting in or Cable flat-out punching the man. Jeff Garcia, who many hoped would add veteran leadership to the team and might mentor Russell along, was cut amid specualtion that Davis didn't want anything threatening Russell's position as starter. Those three DEs? Only one, third round pick Matt Shaughnessy, is still with the team. And now they've traded for DE/DT Seymour.
By contrast, New England has been the model of how to run a franchise, in any sport. Since the Raiders last went to the Super Bowl, the Patriots have been to three, won two of them, and have had double-digit wins each year. But their dominance goes far beyond that, down to a fundamental level that no other team has equaled.
The Year 2000 brought two important changes to New England. That year would be Bill Belichick's first as Pats head coach. That same year, Belichick would use the 199th pick in the draft to select Michigan QB Tom Brady, a player who struggled in his first two seasons in college, but started his last two. Individually, that season would be statistical opposites for both men. Belichick largely struggled, finishing with the same 5-11 record he had in his last season as head coach, five years earlier with the Cleveland Browns. Brady would begin the year as the fourth string QB, but would consistently improve, ending it as Drew Bledsoe's backup. It would be that improvement that would show the NFL how good the Patriots were the following season.
In the second game of 2001, a 10-3 loss to the NY Jets, Bledsoe would be hospitalized with internal bleeding, the result of a viscious hit by LB Mo Lewis. Brady, with career stats of 1-for-3 passing for 6 yards, would take over as starter. With Brady as starter, the Pats would go 11-3, winning their first Super Bowl. Brady would be named Super Bowl MVP. Over that same span to the present, the Pats have a 97-31 record, a 3-1 Super Bowl record, and the leagues only 16-0 regular season in history. With Brady lost of the season in the first game of 2008, backup Matt Cassell, who hadn't started since high school, would take over. Belichick played to his teams strengths that year, finishing 11-5 and barely missing the playoffs, thanks in large part to the resurgent Miami Dolphins, now run by Belichick's mentor, Bill Parcells.
Belichick's genius isn't just in the draft and on the field. Its in his ability to perceive talent overall, and his ability to look at the long term results. Belichick plays no favorites when it comes to his roster. His ability to see a player in his decline and get rid of him before it hurts the team is uncanny, maybe second only to the Indianapolis Colts. And his ability to get top value in trades is second to none. Despite having some of top records in the league each of the last eight years, the Pats have had a pick in the top half of the first round twice, five of their eight first round picks came via trade, and all of their first round picks have been hugely productive players for them. All except 2002 pick TE Daniel Graham are still with the team.
It is with this trade that the greatest comparison between the teams can be made. It first has to be looked at as what each team loses in the trade. Oakland loses their 2011 first round pick. A first round pick is a hot commodity for any team, doubly so for one that has been struggling. And to give up a pick two years down the road shows ownership expects to win with a team that hasn't proven itself. New England loses Richard Seymour. As stated, Seymour was a five time Pro Bowler. Despite tying a career high with 8 sacks last season, his stats have largely declined, along with his health. He injured his knee in 2005, and ended his 2008 season with a back injury before their final game. A QB or WR might be able to come back from those injuries, but when you're a DL listed a 6'6", 310lbs, and about to turn 30, injuries tend to linger. And a player that size with knee and back problems has to be a concern. His huge salary didn't help the situation.
So what does each team gain? Oakland immediatly improves their defense. They get a player that will make them better in the short term. Even with lingering injuries, Seymour is better than anyone else on the Raiders d-line. But there are no long term gains. After 30, injury or no, most NFL players skills decline. Seymour turns 30 next month. This is also the final year of his contract, and he has shown hes not afraid to hold out for more money(Seymour has already failed to show up at Raiders practice, though they claim its because he needs to work some things out with the Pats before he gets there). Even with Oaklands history of overspending, this could be Seymours only season there. By contrast, New England improves in the long term. There are no obvious holes in the team right now, so a high draft pick in 2010 isn't needed. However, with the CBA nearing its experation, young, cheap players may become an even bigger commodity after 2010. This one trade may have ensured Oakland's future failure and New England's future success for years to come.
Tueasday Morning News
Matthew Stafford has been named the starting QB of the Detroit Lions. Good luck, kid! [Washington Post]
Miami(FL) upset 18th ranked rival FSU last night, 38-34. Miami QB Jacory Harris threw for 386 yards, the most ever against FSU. [MiamiHerald.com]
Happy Labor Day, Pittsburgh! To celebrate, the Pirates earned a record 17th consecutive losing season with a 4-2 loss to the Chicago Cubs. [PittsburghPirates.com]
Miami(FL) upset 18th ranked rival FSU last night, 38-34. Miami QB Jacory Harris threw for 386 yards, the most ever against FSU. [MiamiHerald.com]
Happy Labor Day, Pittsburgh! To celebrate, the Pirates earned a record 17th consecutive losing season with a 4-2 loss to the Chicago Cubs. [PittsburghPirates.com]
MY 25 - Week 1
There is probably nothing in sports I disagree with more than the BCS and college football poll system. With that in mind, each week I'll be naming my own Top 25. The only hard and fast rule of MY 25: overall records come first.
1. Alabama
2. Oklahoma St
3. Boise St
4. BYU
5. Florida
6. USC
7. Texas
8. Cal
9. Ole Miss
10. Penn St
11. Georgia Tech
12. Utah
13. Notre Dame
14. BC
15. Kentucky
16. LSU
17. UNC
18. Miami(FL)
19. Nebraska
20. Kansas
21. Michigan St
22. Tennessee
23. Ohio St
24. Air Force
25. Iowa
Team Performance of the Week: Military Schools
The first TPW of the season goes to the combined might of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Army beat Eastern Michigan this week, 27-14. Its really nothing special except that Army is 1-0 for the first time since 1996. Navy lost to Ohio State, 31-27, the four point difference being a Navy 2-point conversion being intercepted and returned for two the other way late in the game. Otherwise, Navy played well down the stretch against a largely overrated, but still intimidating, Ohio State team. But it was Air Force that had the most impressive looking score of the week. Taking on Nicholls State, and with both teams running essentially the same offense(Air Force coaches actually taught Nicholls State how to run the option offense), Air Force proceeded to put on a clinic in running the ball. They put up 576 yards of total offense, 474 of that on the ground. They scored 10 touchdowns, eight of them on the run(the other two: a 57 yard pass and a fumble return). And they shut out Nicholls, for a final score of 72-0. On the weekend, the three schools outscored opponents 126-45, for a combined 2-1 record.
1. Alabama
2. Oklahoma St
3. Boise St
4. BYU
5. Florida
6. USC
7. Texas
8. Cal
9. Ole Miss
10. Penn St
11. Georgia Tech
12. Utah
13. Notre Dame
14. BC
15. Kentucky
16. LSU
17. UNC
18. Miami(FL)
19. Nebraska
20. Kansas
21. Michigan St
22. Tennessee
23. Ohio St
24. Air Force
25. Iowa
Team Performance of the Week: Military Schools
The first TPW of the season goes to the combined might of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Army beat Eastern Michigan this week, 27-14. Its really nothing special except that Army is 1-0 for the first time since 1996. Navy lost to Ohio State, 31-27, the four point difference being a Navy 2-point conversion being intercepted and returned for two the other way late in the game. Otherwise, Navy played well down the stretch against a largely overrated, but still intimidating, Ohio State team. But it was Air Force that had the most impressive looking score of the week. Taking on Nicholls State, and with both teams running essentially the same offense(Air Force coaches actually taught Nicholls State how to run the option offense), Air Force proceeded to put on a clinic in running the ball. They put up 576 yards of total offense, 474 of that on the ground. They scored 10 touchdowns, eight of them on the run(the other two: a 57 yard pass and a fumble return). And they shut out Nicholls, for a final score of 72-0. On the weekend, the three schools outscored opponents 126-45, for a combined 2-1 record.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Stricker Wins
Steve Stricker has birdied the last two holes to win the Deutsche Bank Championship at -17. He currently leads the FedEx Cup playoffs by 909 points over Tiger Woods.
Melanie Mania in NY
US Open Cinderella story Melania Oudin wins again, beating Nadia Petrova, 1-6, 7-6(7-2), 6-3.
Monday Morning News
Kasey Kahne won the Pep Boys 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway. [Boston Herald]
The Denver Broncos have reinstated WR Brandon Marshall. [National Football Post]
Ichiro Suzuki is now the the second fastest player to reach 2000 hits since 1900. [MLB.com]
The Denver Broncos have reinstated WR Brandon Marshall. [National Football Post]
Ichiro Suzuki is now the the second fastest player to reach 2000 hits since 1900. [MLB.com]
Danny Woodhead Cut
After he initially made the 53-man active roster and Rex Ryan told the world he had earned a job, Danny Woodhead, along with P Reggie Hodges and two others, has been cut by the NY Jets to make room for QB Kevin O'Connell, P AJ Trapasso, TE Matt Mulligan, and FB Jason Davis.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
More Women Upset at the US Open
Kim Clijsters has beaten 3 seed Venus Williams in the fourth round. At this point, I think my mother could win this one.
Merriman Arrested
Chargers DE Shawn Merriman has been arrested for allegedly choking and restraining his girlfriend, Tila Tequila.
Sunday Morning News
US Open upsets: 5 seed Andy Roddick loses to John Isner, 1 seed Dinara Safina loses to Petra Kvitova, Melanie Oudin wins again over Maria Sharapova. [Bloomberg]
More upsets: 3 Oklahoma loses to 20 BYU, 14-13. Heisman Trophy winning OU QB Sam Bradford suffered a sprained shoulder in the loss. He is expected to miss a few weeks, probably ending his chances of winning a second Heisman. [Ball Hype]
Notre Dame and Michigan, two schools whose teams haven't lived up to expectations in recent years, each had run-away victories Saturday, over Nevada and Western Michigan, respectively. They will face each other next week at Michigan. [Rivals.com]
Preakness Stakes winner Rachel Alexandra is the first filly to win the Woodward Stakes. At 8-0, she is so far undefeated for the year. [NYDN]
More upsets: 3 Oklahoma loses to 20 BYU, 14-13. Heisman Trophy winning OU QB Sam Bradford suffered a sprained shoulder in the loss. He is expected to miss a few weeks, probably ending his chances of winning a second Heisman. [Ball Hype]
Notre Dame and Michigan, two schools whose teams haven't lived up to expectations in recent years, each had run-away victories Saturday, over Nevada and Western Michigan, respectively. They will face each other next week at Michigan. [Rivals.com]
Preakness Stakes winner Rachel Alexandra is the first filly to win the Woodward Stakes. At 8-0, she is so far undefeated for the year. [NYDN]
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