Oakland Raiders @ NY Giants
Spread: Giants, -14.5
o/u: 37.5
The Raiders are bad. We knew this already. Now, without Darren McFadden to run the ball so they don't have to throw it, the Raiders are worse. After the freak plantar fasciitis injury to Eli Manning last week, the Giants aren't sure he can play. But even if he can't, David Carr is an underrated QB as his backup, and Brandon Jacobs has come alive a bit in the last couple of weeks.
Pick: Gaints 27 - Raiders 6
Washington Redskins @ Carolina Panthers
Spread: Panthers, -3.5
o/u: 37.5
The Panthers are winless and the Redskins have already lost to the Lions this year. In what might actually be a good game between bad teams, the Panthers have a chance to put the season back on track. Coming off the bye week helps the Jags, and if they can finally wake up their running game, Jason Campbell will probably make enough mistakes for the Skins to give Carolina the win.
Pick: Panthers 20 - Redskins 13
Cincinnati Bengals @ Baltimore Ravens
Spread: Ravens, -8.5
o/u: 42
Don't sleep on the Bengals this year. Carson Palmer is finally starting to look like his old, healthy self again, and both teams come into this game 3-1, leading their division. With Baltimore's rush defense 1st in the league and their pass defense 23rd, that healthy arm will help alot. The problem for Cincinnati will come on the other side of the ball, where Baltimore's 3rd ranked offense will move the ball against the Bengal's 17th ranked D. The score in this one will probably be high, and it will be closer than the spread indicates.
Pick: Ravens 28 - Bengals 24
Cleveland Browns @ Buffalo Bills
Spread: Bills, -6
o/u: 40.5
With each passing week, the Browns look like they are trying to repeat the Lions 0-16 performance of last season. Now they've traded away arguably their most talented played, and biggest deep threat. Derek Anderson may have a big arm, but with no one to throw to, will it matter? Now they have to go into one of the NFL's most hostile environments and take on a Bills team trying to claw their way back into the AFC East picture. And with Willis McGahee back against the leagues worst rush defense, the Bills should win this one easily.
Pick: Buffalo 24 - Browns 13
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Philadelphia Eagles
Spread: Eagles, -15
o/u: 42
The Bucs are bad. Getting shut out by the Giants proved that. Now they have to face the Eagles, who also have a very good D, and are expected to have Donovan McNabb and Brian Westbrook this week. The onlt question now is can McNabb put up Kevin Kolb-like numbers?
Pick: Eagles 34 - Buccaneers 10
Dallas Cowboys @ Kansas City Chiefs
Spread: Cowboys, -8
o/u: 42.5
Dallas's season has been marked by wins against winless teams and losses to undefeated teams. The Chiefs are still winless this year, and don't look to be improving any time soon. Dallas will be without #1 receiver Roy Williams this week, but the other receivers have shown they are more than able to pick up the slack for him. The last meeting between these teams, four years ago, was a shootout that totaled 938 yards of offense. Neither one of these teams is who they were four years ago, and it will show in the final score.
Pick: Cowboys 24 - Chiefs 10
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Detroit Lions
Spread: Steelers, -10.5
o/u: 44
Last week, the Steelers found their running game. Detroit still hasn't found their rush defense. Thats all you need to know about this one.
Pick: Steelers 28 - Lions 10
Minnesota Vikings @ St Louis Rams
Spread: Vikings, -10
o/u: 41
There is still some life in Brett Favre's 40 year old arm. Where there isn't life is the Rams offense. Their defense may be improving week-to-week, but they aren't the Bears of a few years ago. They need the offense to put up points, and they haven't been able to.
Pick: Vikings 24 - Rams 10
Atlanta Falcons @ San Francisco 49ers
Spread: 49ers, -2.5
This looks like it might be Sunday's best game. The 49ers are slowly trying to pull away in their division, while Atlanta is just trying to stay close behind New Orleans. And while Atlanta has improved from last years playoff performance, putting up impresive offensive numbers, they've also given up big numbers on D. The 49ers have looked like an all around well-coached team, and those coaches will take agvantage of what Atlanta's defense gives them.
Pick: 49ers 28 - Falcons 17
Jacksonville Jaguars @ Seattle Seahwaks
Spread: Seahawks, -1
o/u: 44
A lot of people seem to be thinking this game will hinge on Matt Hasselbeck. If he plays, Seattle wins, if he doesn't, they lose. But what no one is paying attention to is Seattles D. Over the last two games, they've given up 600 yards and 5 TDs through the air. David Garrard may not be Jay Cutler or Peyton Manning, but hes experienced enough to have a solid game against that defense.
Pick: Jaguars 31 - Seahawks 20
New England Patriots @ Denver Broncos
Spread: Patriots, -3
o/u: 41
As I pointed out last week, the Broncos have quietly put together the leagues best defense. Now they have to stop Tom Brady, who is improving week-to-week since looking lost and confused the first two weeks. However, he still has some hurdles to overcome, like his lack of chemistry with his receivers. Thats what will give the Broncos the edge and the win in this game.
Pick: Broncos 28 - Patriots 21
Houston Texans @ Arizona Cardinals
Spread: Cardinals, -5.5
o/u: 50
This game could be an absolute shootout. Or, Houston could have a blowout win. It all depends on which Arizona team shows up this week: the one that blew out Jacksonville? Or the one that struggled against the Colts and 49ers? On the other side, Houston hasn't looked like the model of consistency, either. Still, with the 3rd worst passing defense taking on Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson, who leads the league in receptions and receiving yards since 2008, I have to give this to Houston.
Pick: Texans 31 - Cardinals 24
Indianapolis Colts @ Tennessee Titans
Spread: Colts, -3.5
o/u: 45.5
Tennessee is 0-4, and has the 2nd worst pass D in the league. The only thing that will stop Peyton Manning is when they pull him in the 4th quarter when they have a big lead.
Pick: Colts 38 - Titans 17
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Friday, October 9, 2009
College Football Week 6 - Important Matchups
1 Florida @ 4 LSU
Favorite: Florida, -7.5
Over the last three seasons, the winner of this game has gone on to win the National Championship. The winner of this game has also bee the home team each of those years. After suffering a concussion against Kentucky two weeks ago, many are wondering if Tim Tebow will play this week. And if he does, will he be the same player? Even with Tebow having practiced this week, the week-and-a-half layoff may leave him a bit rusty. Florida may be the favorite, but I have to give this one to LSU at home.
Pick: LSU 34 - Florida 21
Michigan @ 12 Iowa
Favorite: Iowa, -8
Iowa is still undefeated since beating Penn State last season, and Michigan has something to prove. In what has become an up-and-down season for both teams, the winner of this game would be in early contention for the Big Ten title. Coming into this season, there were low expectations on a Michigan team that went 3-9 last season. Michigan needs this game more, but having already lost their only road game so far, I have give it to Iowa in a close one.
Pick: Iowa 24 - Michigan 21
13 Oregon @ UCLA
Favorite: Oregon, -3.5
After going undefeated in non-conference play, UCLA lost to Stanford in their first conference game of the season. For Oregon, their opening day loss to Boise State dropped them out of the Top 25. Back-to-back wins against then-18 Utah, winners of 16 straight games, and then-6 Cal, also undefeated at the time, have put them in the top 15. UCLA wants to prove thier 3-0 start wasn't a fluke and put themselve in the Pac-10 hunt, but after beating two straight ranked teams, Oregon looks like the runaway winner.
Pick: Oregon 35 - UCLA 17
22 Georgia Tech @ FSU
Favorite: FSU, -3
Georgia Tech hasn't looked great this year. Yes, they are 4-1, Miami made them look like a high school team, and thier wins against Clemson and Mississippi State were closer than they should have been for a ranked team. But if there is one team in the ACC that has looked worse compared to expectations, its FSU. They are off to their worst start since 1976, Bobby Bowden's first season as head coach. At times, Bowden has seemed clueless, even admitting in post-game press conferences that he didn't know how good his opponents were. FSU may be undefeated at home against Georgia Tech, but nothing lasts forver.
Pick: Georgia Tech 31 - FSU 17
Favorite: Florida, -7.5
Over the last three seasons, the winner of this game has gone on to win the National Championship. The winner of this game has also bee the home team each of those years. After suffering a concussion against Kentucky two weeks ago, many are wondering if Tim Tebow will play this week. And if he does, will he be the same player? Even with Tebow having practiced this week, the week-and-a-half layoff may leave him a bit rusty. Florida may be the favorite, but I have to give this one to LSU at home.
Pick: LSU 34 - Florida 21
Michigan @ 12 Iowa
Favorite: Iowa, -8
Iowa is still undefeated since beating Penn State last season, and Michigan has something to prove. In what has become an up-and-down season for both teams, the winner of this game would be in early contention for the Big Ten title. Coming into this season, there were low expectations on a Michigan team that went 3-9 last season. Michigan needs this game more, but having already lost their only road game so far, I have give it to Iowa in a close one.
Pick: Iowa 24 - Michigan 21
13 Oregon @ UCLA
Favorite: Oregon, -3.5
After going undefeated in non-conference play, UCLA lost to Stanford in their first conference game of the season. For Oregon, their opening day loss to Boise State dropped them out of the Top 25. Back-to-back wins against then-18 Utah, winners of 16 straight games, and then-6 Cal, also undefeated at the time, have put them in the top 15. UCLA wants to prove thier 3-0 start wasn't a fluke and put themselve in the Pac-10 hunt, but after beating two straight ranked teams, Oregon looks like the runaway winner.
Pick: Oregon 35 - UCLA 17
22 Georgia Tech @ FSU
Favorite: FSU, -3
Georgia Tech hasn't looked great this year. Yes, they are 4-1, Miami made them look like a high school team, and thier wins against Clemson and Mississippi State were closer than they should have been for a ranked team. But if there is one team in the ACC that has looked worse compared to expectations, its FSU. They are off to their worst start since 1976, Bobby Bowden's first season as head coach. At times, Bowden has seemed clueless, even admitting in post-game press conferences that he didn't know how good his opponents were. FSU may be undefeated at home against Georgia Tech, but nothing lasts forver.
Pick: Georgia Tech 31 - FSU 17
Friday Morning News - 10/9/09
No. 21 Nebrask beat 24 Missouri, 27-12, with all of Nebraska's points socred in the 4th quarter. [KansasCity.com]
In the debut game for the UFL, the Las Vegas Locomotives beat the California Redwoods, 30-17. [[Las Vegas Review Journal]
New England Patriots RB Fred Taylor underwent surgery yesterday to repair ligament damage in his right ankle. He is expected to be back this season. [Boston.com]
In the debut game for the UFL, the Las Vegas Locomotives beat the California Redwoods, 30-17. [[Las Vegas Review Journal]
New England Patriots RB Fred Taylor underwent surgery yesterday to repair ligament damage in his right ankle. He is expected to be back this season. [Boston.com]
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Thursday Morning News - 10/8/09
NY Jets QB Mark Sanchez has been fined $5,000 by the NFL for a low hit on Saints LB Jonathan Vilma. [NJ.com]
Memphis Grizzlie Allen Iverson is expected to miss up to 3 weeks with a hamstring injury. [Memphis Commercial Appeal]
Oklahoma St WR Dez Bryant has been ruled ineligible for lying to NCAA investigators about a meeting with Deion Sanders. [ESPN]
Memphis Grizzlie Allen Iverson is expected to miss up to 3 weeks with a hamstring injury. [Memphis Commercial Appeal]
Oklahoma St WR Dez Bryant has been ruled ineligible for lying to NCAA investigators about a meeting with Deion Sanders. [ESPN]
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
MLB Postseason Preview
NLDS:
St Louis Cardinals vs. LA Dodgers
In each of the major sports, there is something people say wins championships: goaltending in hockey, defense in basketball and football. In baseball, its pitching. The Cardinals have it, and the Dodgers don't. Of all the pitchers who have started a game for the Dodgers this year, only Randy Wolf has more than one more win than loss. On the other side, the Cardinals have three 15 game winners, two of which have an ERA under 3. Add to that some of the struggles the Dodgers have had at the plate lately, and I have to give this one to the Cards.
Pick: Cardinals win 3-0
Colorado Rockies vs Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies will not repeat this year. In fact, I don't think they make it out of the first round. The Rockies simply look like a better team. And putting together a team that hit the 7th most HRs this season against a Phillies pitching staff that gave up the third most HRs this season spells disaster for the former champs.
Pick: Rockies win 3-1
ALDS:
Boston Red Sox vs LA Angels
The Red Sox have owned the Angels in the playoffs. In their last three postseason matchups, the Sox are 9-1 against the Angels. On paper, though, this looks like the most evenly matched pairing this year, as both teams have remarkably similar numbers in pitching and hitting. This series, then, will come down to intangiables. I have to give it to the Sox, as they've been here before, they've won before, and I think they'll win again.
Pick: Red Sox win 3-2
Minnestoa Twins vs NY Yankees
If recent trends continue, the AL side of the postseason is set up perfectly for the Yankees. Under manager Ron Gardenhire, the Twins are 3-23 against the Yanks, including 0-7 this season. If the Red Sox domination of the Angels continues, the Yanks can sweep Minnesota, and have momentum behind them going into the ALCS. In my opinion, having Jose Molina catch AJ Burnett is the right move. Once the postseason starts, pitching becomes much more important than hitting, and having Burnett at the top of his game is more important than having Jorge Posada in the lineup.
Pick: Yankees win 3-0
St Louis Cardinals vs. LA Dodgers
In each of the major sports, there is something people say wins championships: goaltending in hockey, defense in basketball and football. In baseball, its pitching. The Cardinals have it, and the Dodgers don't. Of all the pitchers who have started a game for the Dodgers this year, only Randy Wolf has more than one more win than loss. On the other side, the Cardinals have three 15 game winners, two of which have an ERA under 3. Add to that some of the struggles the Dodgers have had at the plate lately, and I have to give this one to the Cards.
Pick: Cardinals win 3-0
Colorado Rockies vs Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies will not repeat this year. In fact, I don't think they make it out of the first round. The Rockies simply look like a better team. And putting together a team that hit the 7th most HRs this season against a Phillies pitching staff that gave up the third most HRs this season spells disaster for the former champs.
Pick: Rockies win 3-1
ALDS:
Boston Red Sox vs LA Angels
The Red Sox have owned the Angels in the playoffs. In their last three postseason matchups, the Sox are 9-1 against the Angels. On paper, though, this looks like the most evenly matched pairing this year, as both teams have remarkably similar numbers in pitching and hitting. This series, then, will come down to intangiables. I have to give it to the Sox, as they've been here before, they've won before, and I think they'll win again.
Pick: Red Sox win 3-2
Minnestoa Twins vs NY Yankees
If recent trends continue, the AL side of the postseason is set up perfectly for the Yankees. Under manager Ron Gardenhire, the Twins are 3-23 against the Yanks, including 0-7 this season. If the Red Sox domination of the Angels continues, the Yanks can sweep Minnesota, and have momentum behind them going into the ALCS. In my opinion, having Jose Molina catch AJ Burnett is the right move. Once the postseason starts, pitching becomes much more important than hitting, and having Burnett at the top of his game is more important than having Jorge Posada in the lineup.
Pick: Yankees win 3-0
Wednesday Morning News - 10/7/09
The Minnesota Twins beat the Detroit Tigers in 12 innings to win the AL Central. They will take on the NY Yankees in the first round, beginning today. [Bloomberg]
The Cleveland Browns have traded WR Braylon Edwards to the NY Jets for WR Chansi Stuckey, LB Jason Trusnik, and two undisclosed draft picks. [NFL.com]
The San Francisco 49ers have finally signed first-round pick Michael Crabtree to a reoprted 6-year deal. [The Huddle]
Baltimore Raven Brendon Ayanbadejo will miss the rest of the season with a torn left quadriceps tendon. [Baltimore Sun]
The Cleveland Browns have traded WR Braylon Edwards to the NY Jets for WR Chansi Stuckey, LB Jason Trusnik, and two undisclosed draft picks. [NFL.com]
The San Francisco 49ers have finally signed first-round pick Michael Crabtree to a reoprted 6-year deal. [The Huddle]
Baltimore Raven Brendon Ayanbadejo will miss the rest of the season with a torn left quadriceps tendon. [Baltimore Sun]
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
NFL Week 4 Wrap-up
First quarter done, heres where we stand:
The Best:
New Orleans Saints
At 4-0, the Saints are actually tied with the Indianapolis Colts for the best offense yards-wise. But the Saints have scored 36 more points than the Colts have this season, which is more points than the Colts have put up in any single game this year. The fact that they are 10th in passing and second in rushing is a testament to how quickly they can pull out to a big lead: Their quick scores passing lets them run the ball exclusively late in the game.
NY Giants
The Giants offense struggled a bit so far this season. Their passing game lacked a #1 receiver, and Brandon Jacobs hasn't looked like the punishing back we've expected him to be. Its been their defense that has allowed the team to be 4-0. Sure, they gave up huge rushing numbers to the Cowboys in Week 2, but they shutout the Buccs in Week 3, and haven't allowed more than 17 points in their other two games.
The Worst:
Oakland Raiders
The Raiders have the worst offense in football. Thats no surprise. They are barely averaging 10 points and 208 yards of TOTAL offense per game. Thats just barely half the ypg of the Colts and Saints.
Cleveland Browns
The if you thought the Browns offense was bad, then don't even look at their defense. The Browns are giving up almost 30 points and over 400 yards per game. They are actually 11th in the league against the pass, but who needs to pass when teams are averaging 177 rushing yards against them?
Injuries:
Darren McFadden, RB, Raiders: out 2-4 weeks with a torn meniscus in his right knee
Gerald Sensabaugh, SS, Cowboys: possible out 1 month after surgery to repair a plate in his thumb
Eli Manning, QB, Giants: day-to-day with plantar fasciitis
Matthew Stafford, QB, Lions: day-to-day with a possible dislocated kneecap
Fantasy Studs:
Fantasy Duds:
Week 4 Picks:
Straight up: 9-5, 43-19 overall
ATS: 9-5, 41-21 overall
o/u: 8-6, 30-32 overall
Questions for Week 5:
How much will Donovan McNabb and Brian Westbrook play?
Coming off the bye week, both players practiced on Monday. But are they ready? We still don't know how McNabb's rib will react to be ing hit, or even if he'll be ready to go this week. Westbrook is probably the better chance to play, as hes no stranger to being injured. How much of an impact will they have?
Can the Jets Bounce back?
The Jets suffered their first loss of the season this week, and the worst stats came from QB Mark Sanchez. The Saints D made him look like the rookie that he is, as he turned the ball over 4 times, and twice for TDs. After what is far and away his worst start of the season, how will he react? Can the Jets bounce back against what should be 4 fairly easy games in the next 4 weeks?
Who will be coaching the Raiders?
As the story of Randy Hanson's broken jaw has begun to come out over the past week or so, it increasingly looks like head coach Tom Cable could fined himself charged with assault. Its also possible no charges will be filed, and nothing will come of it. But in what has become an increasingly desparate season, this is the last thing the Raiders need now. Al Davis has always looked past people's off-field actions to put what he feels is the best team possible on the field, but how much more can Raiders fans take? Their team has the worst offense in the league, and now their head coaching situation is up in the air. Is it time to abandon ship in Oakland?
The Best:
New Orleans Saints
At 4-0, the Saints are actually tied with the Indianapolis Colts for the best offense yards-wise. But the Saints have scored 36 more points than the Colts have this season, which is more points than the Colts have put up in any single game this year. The fact that they are 10th in passing and second in rushing is a testament to how quickly they can pull out to a big lead: Their quick scores passing lets them run the ball exclusively late in the game.
NY Giants
The Giants offense struggled a bit so far this season. Their passing game lacked a #1 receiver, and Brandon Jacobs hasn't looked like the punishing back we've expected him to be. Its been their defense that has allowed the team to be 4-0. Sure, they gave up huge rushing numbers to the Cowboys in Week 2, but they shutout the Buccs in Week 3, and haven't allowed more than 17 points in their other two games.
The Worst:
Oakland Raiders
The Raiders have the worst offense in football. Thats no surprise. They are barely averaging 10 points and 208 yards of TOTAL offense per game. Thats just barely half the ypg of the Colts and Saints.
Cleveland Browns
The if you thought the Browns offense was bad, then don't even look at their defense. The Browns are giving up almost 30 points and over 400 yards per game. They are actually 11th in the league against the pass, but who needs to pass when teams are averaging 177 rushing yards against them?
Injuries:
Darren McFadden, RB, Raiders: out 2-4 weeks with a torn meniscus in his right knee
Gerald Sensabaugh, SS, Cowboys: possible out 1 month after surgery to repair a plate in his thumb
Eli Manning, QB, Giants: day-to-day with plantar fasciitis
Matthew Stafford, QB, Lions: day-to-day with a possible dislocated kneecap
Fantasy Studs:
- 49ers defense. With 3 TDs, the '9ers put up the most fantasy points this weekend. They scored more points than the Saints offense did against the Jets.
- David Garrard. He feasted on a Tennessee D that hasn't looked even close to as dominant as they were last year.
- Rashard Mendenhall. Replacing injured RB Willie Parker, he made the most of his time, gaining almost 200 yards and 2 TDs.
Fantasy Duds:
- Devin Hester. After having a breakout game last week, Hester only has 1 reception for 2 yards before leaving with a shoulder injury.
- Darren McFadden. He was just barely better than Hester, totalling just 2 yards(-3 rushing) before leaving with his own injury.
- Braylon Edwards. Congrats, Edwards! You got one whole fantasy point this week for making a solo tackle! Thats some heads up D from a receiver!
Week 4 Picks:
Straight up: 9-5, 43-19 overall
ATS: 9-5, 41-21 overall
o/u: 8-6, 30-32 overall
Questions for Week 5:
How much will Donovan McNabb and Brian Westbrook play?
Coming off the bye week, both players practiced on Monday. But are they ready? We still don't know how McNabb's rib will react to be ing hit, or even if he'll be ready to go this week. Westbrook is probably the better chance to play, as hes no stranger to being injured. How much of an impact will they have?
Can the Jets Bounce back?
The Jets suffered their first loss of the season this week, and the worst stats came from QB Mark Sanchez. The Saints D made him look like the rookie that he is, as he turned the ball over 4 times, and twice for TDs. After what is far and away his worst start of the season, how will he react? Can the Jets bounce back against what should be 4 fairly easy games in the next 4 weeks?
Who will be coaching the Raiders?
As the story of Randy Hanson's broken jaw has begun to come out over the past week or so, it increasingly looks like head coach Tom Cable could fined himself charged with assault. Its also possible no charges will be filed, and nothing will come of it. But in what has become an increasingly desparate season, this is the last thing the Raiders need now. Al Davis has always looked past people's off-field actions to put what he feels is the best team possible on the field, but how much more can Raiders fans take? Their team has the worst offense in the league, and now their head coaching situation is up in the air. Is it time to abandon ship in Oakland?
Tuesday Morning News - 10/6/09
St Louis Cardinal Chris Carpenter and Toronto Blue Jay Aaron Hill have been named the NL and AL Comeback Players of the Year. [MLB.com]
Closer Trevor Hoffman has signed a one-year deal to remain with the Milwaukee Brewers. [Yahoo]
Oklahoma WR Ryan Broyles could miss 2-4 weeks with a broken shoulder blade. [ESPN]
Closer Trevor Hoffman has signed a one-year deal to remain with the Milwaukee Brewers. [Yahoo]
Oklahoma WR Ryan Broyles could miss 2-4 weeks with a broken shoulder blade. [ESPN]
Monday, October 5, 2009
MNF Preview - Week 4
Green Bay Packers @ Minnesota Vikings
Spread: Vikings, -3.5
o/u: 46
This is it, the game we've all been waiting for. This is the first time Brett Favre will have to play his old team, the Packers. And its on Monday Night Football, a stage Favre has always performed well on. Overall, I think Green Bay has the better team, but with Adrian Peterson being better than everyone else on the field, a pumped up Favre, and home field advantage, I have to give this to the Vike.
Pick: Minnesota 31 - Green Bay 27
Spread: Vikings, -3.5
o/u: 46
This is it, the game we've all been waiting for. This is the first time Brett Favre will have to play his old team, the Packers. And its on Monday Night Football, a stage Favre has always performed well on. Overall, I think Green Bay has the better team, but with Adrian Peterson being better than everyone else on the field, a pumped up Favre, and home field advantage, I have to give this to the Vike.
Pick: Minnesota 31 - Green Bay 27
NFL Sunday Recap - Week 4
After the first quarter of the season, some things have gone as expected, some haven't:
Living Up to Expectations:
Drew Brees
After almost breaking Dan Marino's single-season passing yards record, Brees is out firing on all cylinders this year. The Saints are putting up big numbers already this year, in large part thanks to Brees's passing numbers. His ability to get the passing game moving early has allowed the running game to pound the ball late, and the defense to sit back and force turnovers when the opponent is playing from behind.
Chad Pennington
Pennington has been injured more often than not over his career. Going down for the season in Week 3 is just more of the same.
Playing Below Expectations:
Tennesee Titans
The Titans are probably the biggest disappointment this year. After starting last year 10-0, and finishing 13-3, they sit this year at 0-4. What was last year one of the leagues best defenses is now a team that gets pushed around each week. And things won't be getting any easier: Their next 4 games are Indy, @ New England, Jacksonville(who just beat them 37-17), and @ San Francisco. Thats right, their next 4 opponents are a combined 12-4.
Brady Quinn
I wanted to make this JaMarcus Russell, but I don't think most people expect much from him at this point. Quinn, however, was looked at as the savior of the Browns franchise when he was drafted, and this is the first real look we've had at him. After three start, he completed 60% of his passes for 400 yards. Its his 1 TD, 3 INTs, and 10 sacks that got him benched at the half in Week 3. Now Derek Anderson is under center, and Lord only knows when we'll see Quinn again.
Rookie Roundup: Using a complex scoring system to rank two major rookies for the season
Mark Sanchez: 14/27, 138 yards, 0 TD, 3 INT, 4 Sacks, 24 rush yards, 1 fumble(lost)
Points: -11.7, 31 overall
Matthew Stafford: 21/36, 241 yards, 1 TD, 2 sacks, 23 rush yards
Points: 15.8, 36.7 overall
Week 4 Winner: Stafford
What Have We Learned?: Three things we can take away from this weekend
1. The Jets are human
With Sanchez off to the first rookie 3-0 start in NFL history, and one of the best defenses in football, the Jets were flying high. With his performance against the Saints this week, he looked like what he is: a rookie QB. He threw 3 picks, one returned for a TD, and fumbled in his own endzone for another. The defense still played well, however, only giving up 10 points against one of the leagues best offenses. But this game served as a reminder to Jets fans that Sanchez is still learning, and once in while he'll have a game like this.
2. Miami can win with Chad. No, not that Chad, the other one.
With Pennington out for the season(though he's hopeful he can return next year), Chad Henne had to step up and take his place. He may have only had 115 passing yards and 1 TD, but he did enough to give the Dolphins their first win of the season. The real story, though, was a Miami rushing attack that put up 250 rushing yards to beat a Bills team that struggled a bit against the run the past two weeks.
3. Another strike for the Chosen One!
Peyton Manning and the Colts have now won an NFL leading 13 straight regular season games. Their last loss was Week 8 of last season, against the then-undefeated Tennessee Titans. In addition, Manning set a franchise record by having 300 passing yards for the fourth straight game. If you throw out the final game of last season, traditionally a rest game for playoff teams but one where Manning still went 7/7, Manning has 300 yards in his last 7 games. And these last 4 have been without Manning favorite Marvin Harrison, who is still considered a free agent.
Living Up to Expectations:
Drew Brees
After almost breaking Dan Marino's single-season passing yards record, Brees is out firing on all cylinders this year. The Saints are putting up big numbers already this year, in large part thanks to Brees's passing numbers. His ability to get the passing game moving early has allowed the running game to pound the ball late, and the defense to sit back and force turnovers when the opponent is playing from behind.
Chad Pennington
Pennington has been injured more often than not over his career. Going down for the season in Week 3 is just more of the same.
Playing Below Expectations:
Tennesee Titans
The Titans are probably the biggest disappointment this year. After starting last year 10-0, and finishing 13-3, they sit this year at 0-4. What was last year one of the leagues best defenses is now a team that gets pushed around each week. And things won't be getting any easier: Their next 4 games are Indy, @ New England, Jacksonville(who just beat them 37-17), and @ San Francisco. Thats right, their next 4 opponents are a combined 12-4.
Brady Quinn
I wanted to make this JaMarcus Russell, but I don't think most people expect much from him at this point. Quinn, however, was looked at as the savior of the Browns franchise when he was drafted, and this is the first real look we've had at him. After three start, he completed 60% of his passes for 400 yards. Its his 1 TD, 3 INTs, and 10 sacks that got him benched at the half in Week 3. Now Derek Anderson is under center, and Lord only knows when we'll see Quinn again.
Rookie Roundup: Using a complex scoring system to rank two major rookies for the season
Mark Sanchez: 14/27, 138 yards, 0 TD, 3 INT, 4 Sacks, 24 rush yards, 1 fumble(lost)
Points: -11.7, 31 overall
Matthew Stafford: 21/36, 241 yards, 1 TD, 2 sacks, 23 rush yards
Points: 15.8, 36.7 overall
Week 4 Winner: Stafford
What Have We Learned?: Three things we can take away from this weekend
1. The Jets are human
With Sanchez off to the first rookie 3-0 start in NFL history, and one of the best defenses in football, the Jets were flying high. With his performance against the Saints this week, he looked like what he is: a rookie QB. He threw 3 picks, one returned for a TD, and fumbled in his own endzone for another. The defense still played well, however, only giving up 10 points against one of the leagues best offenses. But this game served as a reminder to Jets fans that Sanchez is still learning, and once in while he'll have a game like this.
2. Miami can win with Chad. No, not that Chad, the other one.
With Pennington out for the season(though he's hopeful he can return next year), Chad Henne had to step up and take his place. He may have only had 115 passing yards and 1 TD, but he did enough to give the Dolphins their first win of the season. The real story, though, was a Miami rushing attack that put up 250 rushing yards to beat a Bills team that struggled a bit against the run the past two weeks.
3. Another strike for the Chosen One!
Peyton Manning and the Colts have now won an NFL leading 13 straight regular season games. Their last loss was Week 8 of last season, against the then-undefeated Tennessee Titans. In addition, Manning set a franchise record by having 300 passing yards for the fourth straight game. If you throw out the final game of last season, traditionally a rest game for playoff teams but one where Manning still went 7/7, Manning has 300 yards in his last 7 games. And these last 4 have been without Manning favorite Marvin Harrison, who is still considered a free agent.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
MY 25 - Week 5
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. LSU
4. Florida
5. Texas
6. Iowa
7. Auburn
8. Kansas
9. Cincinnati
10. USF
11. TCU
12. Mizzou
13. Wisconsin
14. Miami(FL)
15. Oregon
16. Virginia Tech
17. BYU
18. Oklahoma State
19. Nebraska
20. Ohio State
21. Penn State
22. Notre Dame
23. BC
24. South Carolina
25. West Virginia
Performance of the Week: Miami(FL)
Miami has had probably the toughest schedule to start the season of any team. After 4 games, they have played 4 ranked teams, and are 3-1. This week, after suffering their first loss last week to the-11th ranked Va Tech, Miami had to take on No. 8 Oklahoma as a 7.5 point underdog. Trailing 7-0 after the first quarter and 13-7 at the half, Miami scored 14 in the third quarter and the defense held Oklahoma to a TD and a field goal to win 21-20.
Honorary mention goes to UTEP for their 58-41 victory over ranked conference rival No. 12 Houston.
1. Alabama
2. Boise St
3. LSU
4. Florida
5. Texas
6. Iowa
7. Auburn
8. Kansas
9. Cincinnati
10. USF
11. TCU
12. Mizzou
13. Wisconsin
14. Miami(FL)
15. Oregon
16. Virginia Tech
17. BYU
18. Oklahoma State
19. Nebraska
20. Ohio State
21. Penn State
22. Notre Dame
23. BC
24. South Carolina
25. West Virginia
Performance of the Week: Miami(FL)
Miami has had probably the toughest schedule to start the season of any team. After 4 games, they have played 4 ranked teams, and are 3-1. This week, after suffering their first loss last week to the-11th ranked Va Tech, Miami had to take on No. 8 Oklahoma as a 7.5 point underdog. Trailing 7-0 after the first quarter and 13-7 at the half, Miami scored 14 in the third quarter and the defense held Oklahoma to a TD and a field goal to win 21-20.
Honorary mention goes to UTEP for their 58-41 victory over ranked conference rival No. 12 Houston.
The Sunday News - 10/4/09
The Toronto Blue Jays have fired GM JP Ricciardi. [Canada.com]
The LA Dodgers finally clinched the NL West division title, beating the Rockies 5-0 in the second to last game of the season. The Rockies will get the NL Wild Card. [LA Times]
John Tavares, the first overall pick in the 2009 NHL Draft, had a goal and an assist for the NY Islanders in his first NHL game, a 4-3 shootout loss to Pittsburgh. [Fanhouse]
The Detroit Tigers and Minnesota Twins enter the final day of the MLB season tied atop the AL Central.
The LA Dodgers finally clinched the NL West division title, beating the Rockies 5-0 in the second to last game of the season. The Rockies will get the NL Wild Card. [LA Times]
John Tavares, the first overall pick in the 2009 NHL Draft, had a goal and an assist for the NY Islanders in his first NHL game, a 4-3 shootout loss to Pittsburgh. [Fanhouse]
The Detroit Tigers and Minnesota Twins enter the final day of the MLB season tied atop the AL Central.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
NFL Week 4 Preview
Bye Week: Arizona Cardinals, Philadelphia Eagles, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers
NY Giants @ Kansas City Chiefs
Spread: Giants, -8.5
o/u: 42.5
The Giants look like they finally put together a passing game, even though the running game hasn't lived up to the hype. Meanwhile, the Chiefs haven't been able to put together much of a game at all. With the Giants coming off a shutout win over Tampa Bay last week, the defense will want to keep it going.
Pick: Gaints 28 - Chiefs 14
Detroit Lions @ Chicago Bears
Spread: Bears, -10
o/u: 39
The Lions may have finally won a game last week, but now they have to face a hot Bears team thats won two straight. Make that three.
Pick: Bears 27 - Lions 10
Oakland Raiders @ Houston Texans
Spread: Texans, -9
o/u: 42.5
At this point, I don't think the Raiders could beat the Houston Cougars, let alone the Texans. With JaMarcus Russell currently holding the title "The Worst QB in Football," Houston should win this easy.
Pick: Texans 35 - Raiders 13
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Washington Redskins
Spread: Redskins, -7.5
o/u: 37
The Redskins lost to the Lions. The Bucs got shut out at home by the Giants. Neither team looks like they belong on a professional football field right now. This one comes down to coaching, and even though Raheem Morris is a rookie coach, Jim Zorn's playing calling has left much to be desired.
Pick: Bucs 17 - Redskins 13
Seattle Seahawks @ Indianapolis Colts
Spread: Colts, -10
o/u: 44
The Seahawks looked good after their injuries from last year healed. No Matt Hasselbeck has that rib injury and Seneca Wallace might be a good backup, but he's not the guy to lead the team week in and week out. The Colts look like they finally figured out what was keeping them from putting up big points the first two weeks, and thats bad news for anyone who has to face them the rest of the season.
Pick: Colts 38 - Seahawks 21
Baltimore Ravens @ New England Patriots
Spread: Patriot, -2
o/u: 44.5
The last time these teams played, New England need a series of bone-head moves by the Ravens defense and coaches to BARELY keep their undefeated 2007 season alive. And that was a season with Tom Brady at his best. This season is not Tom Brady at his best. We've already seen him uncomfortable against Rex Ryan's Jets defense, now he has to go against the Ravens D Rex Ryan built. I'm looking for a repeat of Week 2.
Pick: Ravens 27 - Patriots 17
Cincinnati Bengal @ Cleveland Browns
Spread: Bengals, -6
o/u: 38
The Browns are bad, and the Bungles have clawed their way back into looking like the pre-Carson Palmer knee injury team that made the playoffs a few years ago. Bangles in a laugher.
Pick: Bengals 35 - Browns 10
Tennessee Titans @ Jacksonville Jaguars
Spread: Titans, -3
o/u: 41.5
The Titans keep showing flashes of being last year's team. They were the first team to score a TD against the Jets, put one each in on the ground and in the air. Their defense also looked better last week than in the Week 2 shootout with Houston. Meanwhile, apparently no one wants to watch the Jags, as this game will be blacked out in Jacksonville, again.
Pick: Titans 20 - Jaguars 13
NY Jets @ New Orleans Saints
Spread: Saints, -7
o/u: 45
I would love to tell you the Jets D will hold the Saints NBA-like offense and pull out the win, but the Saints are too good. Drew Brees has had a long time to settle into the offense and get together with his receivers, and thats what will make the difference.
Pick: Saints 41 - Jets 27
Buffalo Bills @ Miami Dolphins
Spread: Bills, -1
o/u: 37
Miami got what they paid for, as Chad Pennington is gone for the season, again. Miami might have to rely on the Wildcat even more, and it might put up numbers, but it won't put up wins.
Pick: Bills 28 - Dolphins 20
Dallas Cowboys @ Denver Broncos
Spread: Cowboys, -3
o/u: 42
The Broncos offense has looked better and better each week. The Cowboys haven't. They may have played better last week than in their home opener against the Giants, but their one thing most people don't realize: The Broncos have the best defense in the NFL right now.
Pick: Broncos 31 - Cowboys 24
St Louis Rams @ San Francisco 49ers
Spread: 49ers, -9.5
o/u: 37.5
The 49ers are looking to be the front-runner for the NFC West. To do that, they have to beat teams like the Rams. And you better believe they want a big win after the last second loss to Brett Favre last week. They might be without Frank Gore, but Glen Coffee is more than capable of carrying the workload.
Pick: 49ers 28 - Rams 17
San Diego Chargers @ Pittsburgh Steelers
Spread: Steelers, -6.5
o/u: 43
Before the season, I had the Steelers picked to win this game. They looked like the better team, and San Diego looked like the perenial disappointment they usually are. But while San Diego has played just like I thought they would, the Steelers have struggled to get a running game going. And as good as Ben Roethlisburger is, he needs at least a decent running game to take some of the defensive pressure off. The run just hasn't been their for them this year.
Pick: Chargers 31 - Steelers 17
NY Giants @ Kansas City Chiefs
Spread: Giants, -8.5
o/u: 42.5
The Giants look like they finally put together a passing game, even though the running game hasn't lived up to the hype. Meanwhile, the Chiefs haven't been able to put together much of a game at all. With the Giants coming off a shutout win over Tampa Bay last week, the defense will want to keep it going.
Pick: Gaints 28 - Chiefs 14
Detroit Lions @ Chicago Bears
Spread: Bears, -10
o/u: 39
The Lions may have finally won a game last week, but now they have to face a hot Bears team thats won two straight. Make that three.
Pick: Bears 27 - Lions 10
Oakland Raiders @ Houston Texans
Spread: Texans, -9
o/u: 42.5
At this point, I don't think the Raiders could beat the Houston Cougars, let alone the Texans. With JaMarcus Russell currently holding the title "The Worst QB in Football," Houston should win this easy.
Pick: Texans 35 - Raiders 13
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Washington Redskins
Spread: Redskins, -7.5
o/u: 37
The Redskins lost to the Lions. The Bucs got shut out at home by the Giants. Neither team looks like they belong on a professional football field right now. This one comes down to coaching, and even though Raheem Morris is a rookie coach, Jim Zorn's playing calling has left much to be desired.
Pick: Bucs 17 - Redskins 13
Seattle Seahawks @ Indianapolis Colts
Spread: Colts, -10
o/u: 44
The Seahawks looked good after their injuries from last year healed. No Matt Hasselbeck has that rib injury and Seneca Wallace might be a good backup, but he's not the guy to lead the team week in and week out. The Colts look like they finally figured out what was keeping them from putting up big points the first two weeks, and thats bad news for anyone who has to face them the rest of the season.
Pick: Colts 38 - Seahawks 21
Baltimore Ravens @ New England Patriots
Spread: Patriot, -2
o/u: 44.5
The last time these teams played, New England need a series of bone-head moves by the Ravens defense and coaches to BARELY keep their undefeated 2007 season alive. And that was a season with Tom Brady at his best. This season is not Tom Brady at his best. We've already seen him uncomfortable against Rex Ryan's Jets defense, now he has to go against the Ravens D Rex Ryan built. I'm looking for a repeat of Week 2.
Pick: Ravens 27 - Patriots 17
Cincinnati Bengal @ Cleveland Browns
Spread: Bengals, -6
o/u: 38
The Browns are bad, and the Bungles have clawed their way back into looking like the pre-Carson Palmer knee injury team that made the playoffs a few years ago. Bangles in a laugher.
Pick: Bengals 35 - Browns 10
Tennessee Titans @ Jacksonville Jaguars
Spread: Titans, -3
o/u: 41.5
The Titans keep showing flashes of being last year's team. They were the first team to score a TD against the Jets, put one each in on the ground and in the air. Their defense also looked better last week than in the Week 2 shootout with Houston. Meanwhile, apparently no one wants to watch the Jags, as this game will be blacked out in Jacksonville, again.
Pick: Titans 20 - Jaguars 13
NY Jets @ New Orleans Saints
Spread: Saints, -7
o/u: 45
I would love to tell you the Jets D will hold the Saints NBA-like offense and pull out the win, but the Saints are too good. Drew Brees has had a long time to settle into the offense and get together with his receivers, and thats what will make the difference.
Pick: Saints 41 - Jets 27
Buffalo Bills @ Miami Dolphins
Spread: Bills, -1
o/u: 37
Miami got what they paid for, as Chad Pennington is gone for the season, again. Miami might have to rely on the Wildcat even more, and it might put up numbers, but it won't put up wins.
Pick: Bills 28 - Dolphins 20
Dallas Cowboys @ Denver Broncos
Spread: Cowboys, -3
o/u: 42
The Broncos offense has looked better and better each week. The Cowboys haven't. They may have played better last week than in their home opener against the Giants, but their one thing most people don't realize: The Broncos have the best defense in the NFL right now.
Pick: Broncos 31 - Cowboys 24
St Louis Rams @ San Francisco 49ers
Spread: 49ers, -9.5
o/u: 37.5
The 49ers are looking to be the front-runner for the NFC West. To do that, they have to beat teams like the Rams. And you better believe they want a big win after the last second loss to Brett Favre last week. They might be without Frank Gore, but Glen Coffee is more than capable of carrying the workload.
Pick: 49ers 28 - Rams 17
San Diego Chargers @ Pittsburgh Steelers
Spread: Steelers, -6.5
o/u: 43
Before the season, I had the Steelers picked to win this game. They looked like the better team, and San Diego looked like the perenial disappointment they usually are. But while San Diego has played just like I thought they would, the Steelers have struggled to get a running game going. And as good as Ben Roethlisburger is, he needs at least a decent running game to take some of the defensive pressure off. The run just hasn't been their for them this year.
Pick: Chargers 31 - Steelers 17
Saturday Morning News - 10/3/09
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, has been named the site of the 2016 Olympics. This is the first time a South American nation will hold the games, and only the third time they will be held in the Southern Hemisphere. [Washington Post]
Montreal Canadiens D Andrei Markov will miss 3-4 months after undergoing surgery to repair a sliced tendon in his ankle. [Bleacher Report]
Oregon's LeGarrette Blount, originally suspended for the season for his actions after the season opener against Boise State, could be reinstated as early as November 7, says head coach Chip Kelly. [Seattle Times]
Tiger Woods is believed to be the first athlete to earn $1 billion after his $10 million FedEx Cup win. [LA Times]
Magic Number Update: The Detroit Tigers and LA Dodgers numbers remain at 2 and 1, respectively. Both teams division leads are at 1 game, but LA will at least get the NL Wild Card.
Montreal Canadiens D Andrei Markov will miss 3-4 months after undergoing surgery to repair a sliced tendon in his ankle. [Bleacher Report]
Oregon's LeGarrette Blount, originally suspended for the season for his actions after the season opener against Boise State, could be reinstated as early as November 7, says head coach Chip Kelly. [Seattle Times]
Tiger Woods is believed to be the first athlete to earn $1 billion after his $10 million FedEx Cup win. [LA Times]
Magic Number Update: The Detroit Tigers and LA Dodgers numbers remain at 2 and 1, respectively. Both teams division leads are at 1 game, but LA will at least get the NL Wild Card.
Friday, October 2, 2009
College Football Week 5 - Important Matchups
3 Alabama @ Kentucky
Favorite: Alabama, -15.5
With the two teams ahead of them in the polls off this week, as well as most of the always powerful Big XII conference, Alabama needs to prove themselves here. Coming off their 41-7 loss to Florida last week, Kentucky looks like a team 'Bama can breeze through. And they'll need to. 'Bama has put up some strong numbers this year, but so has Kentucky in their two wins. 'Bama will have to duplicate what Florida's defense did last week, or suffer an ugly upset.
Pick: Alabama 42 - Kentucky 13
4 LSU @ 18 Georgia
Favorite: Georgia, -3
With LSU undefeated but not putting up the numbers you would normally expect, Georgia comes in as the small favorite. Playing at home probably has something to do with that. But Georgia hasn't exactly been a powerhouse this year, either. Two of their wins have been by 4 points or less, and their third was by only 11. If LSU can put together some offense, they can have an easy win on the road.
Pick: LSU 35 - Georgia 21
7 USC @ 24 Cal
Favorite: USC, -5
Both teams have suffered upset losses the last two weeks, and both teams looked terrible in them. USC had their bounce-back win last week, and Cal needs one now. Though Cal looked worse in their loss than USC did, only managing 3 points, Cal still looks to have the batter offense. This week will be a return to putting up big numbers.
Pick: Cal 42 - USC 24
8 Oklahoma @ 17 Miami(FL)
Favorite: Oklahoma, -7.5
Though injured QB Sam Bradford wanted to be back for this game, he'll sit on the sidelines as Landry Jones continues to play for Oklahoma. While Jones's huge performances have been the story this year, its the Oklahoma defense that deserves a lot of credit. In the last two games, they've blanked their opponents, outscoring them 109-0. Including their loss to BYU, its still 122-14. But those shut-outs were against Idaho State and Tulsa, two teams no one expected to put up much of a fight. Miami, however, come in with something to prove. After suffering their first loss of the season last week, they are now 2-1 against ranked opponents. They need a win both as a bounce-back and to cement their right to a ranking as they go into the easy part of their schedule. To do that, Jacory Harris needs to play like he did against FSU and Georgia Tech, and forget about Va Tech last week.
Pick: Miami 38 - Oklahoma 35
Favorite: Alabama, -15.5
With the two teams ahead of them in the polls off this week, as well as most of the always powerful Big XII conference, Alabama needs to prove themselves here. Coming off their 41-7 loss to Florida last week, Kentucky looks like a team 'Bama can breeze through. And they'll need to. 'Bama has put up some strong numbers this year, but so has Kentucky in their two wins. 'Bama will have to duplicate what Florida's defense did last week, or suffer an ugly upset.
Pick: Alabama 42 - Kentucky 13
4 LSU @ 18 Georgia
Favorite: Georgia, -3
With LSU undefeated but not putting up the numbers you would normally expect, Georgia comes in as the small favorite. Playing at home probably has something to do with that. But Georgia hasn't exactly been a powerhouse this year, either. Two of their wins have been by 4 points or less, and their third was by only 11. If LSU can put together some offense, they can have an easy win on the road.
Pick: LSU 35 - Georgia 21
7 USC @ 24 Cal
Favorite: USC, -5
Both teams have suffered upset losses the last two weeks, and both teams looked terrible in them. USC had their bounce-back win last week, and Cal needs one now. Though Cal looked worse in their loss than USC did, only managing 3 points, Cal still looks to have the batter offense. This week will be a return to putting up big numbers.
Pick: Cal 42 - USC 24
8 Oklahoma @ 17 Miami(FL)
Favorite: Oklahoma, -7.5
Though injured QB Sam Bradford wanted to be back for this game, he'll sit on the sidelines as Landry Jones continues to play for Oklahoma. While Jones's huge performances have been the story this year, its the Oklahoma defense that deserves a lot of credit. In the last two games, they've blanked their opponents, outscoring them 109-0. Including their loss to BYU, its still 122-14. But those shut-outs were against Idaho State and Tulsa, two teams no one expected to put up much of a fight. Miami, however, come in with something to prove. After suffering their first loss of the season last week, they are now 2-1 against ranked opponents. They need a win both as a bounce-back and to cement their right to a ranking as they go into the easy part of their schedule. To do that, Jacory Harris needs to play like he did against FSU and Georgia Tech, and forget about Va Tech last week.
Pick: Miami 38 - Oklahoma 35
Chicago Eliminated from Olympic Picture
Chicago, expected to be a front-runner with Rio to land the 2016 Olympics, has been eliminated from contention in the first round of voting. The city, which had seen anti-Olympic protests in recent days, was left stunned. From ESPN:
Not even the combined efforts of the Obamas and Oprah Winfrey could save the bid. And if Oprah can't help, who can?
Thousands of people gathered in downtown Chicago stood in stunned silence Friday after watching coverage of the announcement. The vote in Copenhagen was carried on huge television screens in the Daley Center, set up to carry what many had hoped would be apporval of Chicago to host the Games.
An audible gasp could be heard from the crowd. Many stood for a few minutes, staring at the screen, and at least one flung his hands into the air in a crude gesture toward the TV screen.
Within seconds, people began filing out of the plaza.
Not even the combined efforts of the Obamas and Oprah Winfrey could save the bid. And if Oprah can't help, who can?
Friday Morning News - 10/2/09
The 2009-10 NHL hockey season opens tonight.
The Colorado Rockies have clinched a playoff spot and eliminated the Atlanta Braves from playoff contention. The Rockies are also still in the running for the NL West division title. [MLB.com]
Magic Number Update: The Detroit Tigers and LA Dodgers numbers are still at 2 and 1, respectively. Detroit can clinch with a win AND a Minnesota loss tonight, and the Dodgers can clinch by beating Colorado tonight.
The Colorado Rockies have clinched a playoff spot and eliminated the Atlanta Braves from playoff contention. The Rockies are also still in the running for the NL West division title. [MLB.com]
Magic Number Update: The Detroit Tigers and LA Dodgers numbers are still at 2 and 1, respectively. Detroit can clinch with a win AND a Minnesota loss tonight, and the Dodgers can clinch by beating Colorado tonight.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Thursday Morning News - 10/1/09
The Philadelphia Phillies have clinched their third straight NL East title. [MLB.com]
The Cleveland Indians have fired their manager, Eric Wedge. Wedge will finish the season and remain with the organization. [Philadelphia Daily News]
NY Met Jose Reyes, who already missed most of this season, will have surgery on a torn hamstring he injured while rehabbing. [NYDN]
Dallas Cowboy Flozell Adams has been fined again. He has been fined $7,500 for attempting to kick Carolina Panthers DE Julius Peppers on Monday's game and will appeal. [ESPN Dallas]
Michael Vick has reached and endorsement deal with Nike. Nike previously dropped Vick after his conviction on dog fighting charges. [The Huddle]
The NBA officially announced they are banning cell phones, PDAs, and other electronic communications devices for players during games, a period that begins 45 minutes before tip off and ends after the players have fulfilled their post-game obligations, and includes halftime. [ESPN]
Mats Sundin, 38, has announced his retirement from the NHL. [Canada.com]
Magic Number Update: The Detroit Tigers number is at 2. They can clinch by beating the Minnesota Twins tonight. The LA Dodgers and Colorado Rockies numbers are at 1. LA can clinch the NL West with a Colorado loss tonight, and the Rockies can clinch at least the NL Wild Card with a win OR a loss by the Atlanta Braves tonight.
The Cleveland Indians have fired their manager, Eric Wedge. Wedge will finish the season and remain with the organization. [Philadelphia Daily News]
NY Met Jose Reyes, who already missed most of this season, will have surgery on a torn hamstring he injured while rehabbing. [NYDN]
Dallas Cowboy Flozell Adams has been fined again. He has been fined $7,500 for attempting to kick Carolina Panthers DE Julius Peppers on Monday's game and will appeal. [ESPN Dallas]
Michael Vick has reached and endorsement deal with Nike. Nike previously dropped Vick after his conviction on dog fighting charges. [The Huddle]
The NBA officially announced they are banning cell phones, PDAs, and other electronic communications devices for players during games, a period that begins 45 minutes before tip off and ends after the players have fulfilled their post-game obligations, and includes halftime. [ESPN]
Mats Sundin, 38, has announced his retirement from the NHL. [Canada.com]
Magic Number Update: The Detroit Tigers number is at 2. They can clinch by beating the Minnesota Twins tonight. The LA Dodgers and Colorado Rockies numbers are at 1. LA can clinch the NL West with a Colorado loss tonight, and the Rockies can clinch at least the NL Wild Card with a win OR a loss by the Atlanta Braves tonight.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Wednesday Morning News - 9/30/09
The Boston Red Sox clinched the AL Wild Card when the LA Angels beat the Texas Rangers last night. [Boston Herald]
With Chad Pennington out for the season, the Miami Dolphins traded and undisclosed draft pick to the Kansas City Chiefs for QB Tyler Thigpen. [KansasCity.com]
The Philadelphia Eagles signed four-time Pro Bowl LB Jeremiah Trotter and cut QB Jeff Garcia yesterday. [MyFOXPhilly.com]
St Louis Ram David Vobora has been suspended by the NFL for violating the NFL policy on performance enhancing substances. [Missourinet]
The NBA has announced they are going ahead with replacement refs while they attempt to reach a labor deal with the NBRA. [USA Today]
The Yankees are expected to announce today Yankee Stadium will host a college bowl game beginning in 2010. [Newsday]
Magic Number Update: The Philadelphia Phillies and LA Dodgers numbers to clinch their divisions are at 1. The Phillies can clinch with a win tonight OR an Atlanta loss, and the Dodgers can clinch with a win tonight OR a Colorado loss. Colorado's number is at 3 over the Braves for the NL Wild Card.
With Chad Pennington out for the season, the Miami Dolphins traded and undisclosed draft pick to the Kansas City Chiefs for QB Tyler Thigpen. [KansasCity.com]
The Philadelphia Eagles signed four-time Pro Bowl LB Jeremiah Trotter and cut QB Jeff Garcia yesterday. [MyFOXPhilly.com]
St Louis Ram David Vobora has been suspended by the NFL for violating the NFL policy on performance enhancing substances. [Missourinet]
The NBA has announced they are going ahead with replacement refs while they attempt to reach a labor deal with the NBRA. [USA Today]
The Yankees are expected to announce today Yankee Stadium will host a college bowl game beginning in 2010. [Newsday]
Magic Number Update: The Philadelphia Phillies and LA Dodgers numbers to clinch their divisions are at 1. The Phillies can clinch with a win tonight OR an Atlanta loss, and the Dodgers can clinch with a win tonight OR a Colorado loss. Colorado's number is at 3 over the Braves for the NL Wild Card.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
NFL Week 3 Wrap-up
With Week 3 in the books, some teams are beginning to show some consistency:
Consistently Good:
New York Jets
Sure, they haven't played perfect football and their offense struggled a bit against Tennessee this week, but they've shown they can win games. The defense came up big when it mattered, they've capitalized on turnovers, and Mark Sanchez has played as well as you can expect a rookie starting QB to play.
New Orleans Saints
The Saints have put together probably the best offense in football. They rank first in points scored and yards per game, are second in rushing yards per game, and sixth in passing. This week may have been a step back statistically, with Drew Brees breaking his streak of games with a passing TD, but they still played well on the road in a hostile Buffalo environment, in every sense of the word. At 3-0, they look like an early favorite for the division, and possibly home-field in the playoffs.
Consistently Bad:
Cleveland Browns
The only good thing about the Browns right now is that they have a cartoon character with a new TV show named after them. They are the anti-Saints. They rank in the bottom four of every team statistical category except passing yards allowed. Their QB have a combined 1 TD to go with 6 picks. In fact, they haven't put up a TD since scoring two in Week 1. And now, they once again haven't announced who their starting QB will be this week. Oh, and they've been outscored 95-29, the worst point differential in the NFL.
Oakland Raiders
JaMarcus Russell was supposed to be the savior of this franchise. Al Davis supports him to the point that he reportedly had Jeff Garcia cut so Russell wouldn't feel threatened as the starter. Well, through three games hes completed only 40% of his passes, and the Raiders are last in passing yards per game, averaging only 16 more yards through the air than on the ground. The fact that their 1-2 record has been against all divison opponents only makes things worse.
Consistenly Inconsistent:
Arizona Cardinals
The Cards struggled to get things going in Week 1, and their were some questions about if Kurt Warner could still lead this team. On top of that, the games top rusher was 49er Frank Gore with 30 yards. Week 2 saw a comeback, as they beat up on the struggling Jacksonville Jaguars. Warner broke the record for completion percentage in that game, and everything seem right in the world. Week 3 they were a 2.5 point favorite at home against the Colts. Instead of building off a great Week 2, Warner went back to his Week 1 play, with 1 TD and 2 picks. The rushing attack that could run people over last year managed only 24 yards on 12 carries. On top of that, Peyton Manning torched the D for 379 yards and 4 TDs. And this is the defending NFC Champion?
New England Patriots
The Pats 2-1 record is already better than it should be. They haven't been inconsistent week-to-week, they've been inconsistent play-to-play. They played badly 3 quarters against Buffalo and pulled out a win in the fourth. The had some drives against the Jets, but could only manage field goals. They put up 26 points for the win against Atlanta, but passes were being dropped left and right, to the point that Tom Brady could be seen loudly cursing on TV as he went to the sideline after a Joey Galloway drop. Brady himself has been Mr Inconsistent this year, and has admitted to not being where he should be mentally and physically. Two years ago, the Pats were the models of consistency. Now, every play is an adventure.
Injuries:
Chad Pennington, QB, Dolphins: out for the season with a torn capsule in his throwing shoulder
Vincent Fuller, CB, Titans: out 4-6 weeks with a broken arm
Frank Gore, RB, 49ers: expected to miss 3 weeks with an ankle injury
Marc Bulger, QB, Rams: expected to play with a bruised shoulder
Dwight Freeney, DE, Colts: awaiting MRI results on a quad injury
Hunter Hillenmeyer, MLB, Bears: hoping to play with a rib injury(Hillenmeyer replaced Brian Urlacher, who is out for the season)
Fantasy Studs:
Fantasy Duds:
Week 3 Picks:
Straight up: 11-5, 34-14 overall
ATS: 12-4, 32-16 overall
o/u: 8-8, 22-26 overall
Questions for Week 3:
Who wins: the unstoppable force or the immovable object?
In the only Week 4 game to feature undefeated teams, the Top-10 defense of the NY Jets will head to New Orleans to face the Top-10 ofeense of the Saints. Both teams saw what appears to be uncharacteristic wins in Week 3, as the Saints failed to score through the air, and the Jets gave up their first Td of the season. This will be the game to watch this week, as we try to find out if the Jets are for real and if anything can stop the Saints.
How will Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers play against each other?
This is the first time since "retiring" that Brett will face his old team, and the first time Aaron Rodgers will face his old teammate. Its a division battle between two teams that want to beat each other, for many reasons. How will Rodgers play against the man who mentored him in Green Bay? And Brett might have the home-field advantage, but how will the notriously emotional QB react to playing against so many familiar faces?
Is Chad Pennington done?
Pennington's injury still hasn't been officially dignosed, as far as I've heard. If it is as serious as believed to be, Chad would probably miss the rest of the season. It could also be the third surgery performed on his throwing shoulder in his career. Chad might be a fighter, but will it finally be time for him to hang it up? Does he still have enough to make one moer comeback?
Consistently Good:
New York Jets
Sure, they haven't played perfect football and their offense struggled a bit against Tennessee this week, but they've shown they can win games. The defense came up big when it mattered, they've capitalized on turnovers, and Mark Sanchez has played as well as you can expect a rookie starting QB to play.
New Orleans Saints
The Saints have put together probably the best offense in football. They rank first in points scored and yards per game, are second in rushing yards per game, and sixth in passing. This week may have been a step back statistically, with Drew Brees breaking his streak of games with a passing TD, but they still played well on the road in a hostile Buffalo environment, in every sense of the word. At 3-0, they look like an early favorite for the division, and possibly home-field in the playoffs.
Consistently Bad:
Cleveland Browns
The only good thing about the Browns right now is that they have a cartoon character with a new TV show named after them. They are the anti-Saints. They rank in the bottom four of every team statistical category except passing yards allowed. Their QB have a combined 1 TD to go with 6 picks. In fact, they haven't put up a TD since scoring two in Week 1. And now, they once again haven't announced who their starting QB will be this week. Oh, and they've been outscored 95-29, the worst point differential in the NFL.
Oakland Raiders
JaMarcus Russell was supposed to be the savior of this franchise. Al Davis supports him to the point that he reportedly had Jeff Garcia cut so Russell wouldn't feel threatened as the starter. Well, through three games hes completed only 40% of his passes, and the Raiders are last in passing yards per game, averaging only 16 more yards through the air than on the ground. The fact that their 1-2 record has been against all divison opponents only makes things worse.
Consistenly Inconsistent:
Arizona Cardinals
The Cards struggled to get things going in Week 1, and their were some questions about if Kurt Warner could still lead this team. On top of that, the games top rusher was 49er Frank Gore with 30 yards. Week 2 saw a comeback, as they beat up on the struggling Jacksonville Jaguars. Warner broke the record for completion percentage in that game, and everything seem right in the world. Week 3 they were a 2.5 point favorite at home against the Colts. Instead of building off a great Week 2, Warner went back to his Week 1 play, with 1 TD and 2 picks. The rushing attack that could run people over last year managed only 24 yards on 12 carries. On top of that, Peyton Manning torched the D for 379 yards and 4 TDs. And this is the defending NFC Champion?
New England Patriots
The Pats 2-1 record is already better than it should be. They haven't been inconsistent week-to-week, they've been inconsistent play-to-play. They played badly 3 quarters against Buffalo and pulled out a win in the fourth. The had some drives against the Jets, but could only manage field goals. They put up 26 points for the win against Atlanta, but passes were being dropped left and right, to the point that Tom Brady could be seen loudly cursing on TV as he went to the sideline after a Joey Galloway drop. Brady himself has been Mr Inconsistent this year, and has admitted to not being where he should be mentally and physically. Two years ago, the Pats were the models of consistency. Now, every play is an adventure.
Injuries:
Chad Pennington, QB, Dolphins: out for the season with a torn capsule in his throwing shoulder
Vincent Fuller, CB, Titans: out 4-6 weeks with a broken arm
Frank Gore, RB, 49ers: expected to miss 3 weeks with an ankle injury
Marc Bulger, QB, Rams: expected to play with a bruised shoulder
Dwight Freeney, DE, Colts: awaiting MRI results on a quad injury
Hunter Hillenmeyer, MLB, Bears: hoping to play with a rib injury(Hillenmeyer replaced Brian Urlacher, who is out for the season)
Fantasy Studs:
- Peyton Manning. 379 yards and 4 TDs is what we've come to expect from the future HOF'er
- Kevin Kolb. With 327 yards and 2 TDs this week, Klob became the first QB to throw for 300 yards in his first two starts.
- Maurice Jones-Drew. With the pasing game sputtering at times, someone needs to pick up the slack in Jacksonville. Rushing for 119 yards and 3 TDs helps.
Fantasy Duds:
- Terrell Owens. The streak of 185 games with a catch ends in Buffalo.
- Chad Pennington. He only had 54 passing yards before leaving the game with what some think is a season ending shoulder injury.
- Tim Hightower. Only 22 yards from the guy that was supposed to take over the Cardinal's running game.
Week 3 Picks:
Straight up: 11-5, 34-14 overall
ATS: 12-4, 32-16 overall
o/u: 8-8, 22-26 overall
Questions for Week 3:
Who wins: the unstoppable force or the immovable object?
In the only Week 4 game to feature undefeated teams, the Top-10 defense of the NY Jets will head to New Orleans to face the Top-10 ofeense of the Saints. Both teams saw what appears to be uncharacteristic wins in Week 3, as the Saints failed to score through the air, and the Jets gave up their first Td of the season. This will be the game to watch this week, as we try to find out if the Jets are for real and if anything can stop the Saints.
How will Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers play against each other?
This is the first time since "retiring" that Brett will face his old team, and the first time Aaron Rodgers will face his old teammate. Its a division battle between two teams that want to beat each other, for many reasons. How will Rodgers play against the man who mentored him in Green Bay? And Brett might have the home-field advantage, but how will the notriously emotional QB react to playing against so many familiar faces?
Is Chad Pennington done?
Pennington's injury still hasn't been officially dignosed, as far as I've heard. If it is as serious as believed to be, Chad would probably miss the rest of the season. It could also be the third surgery performed on his throwing shoulder in his career. Chad might be a fighter, but will it finally be time for him to hang it up? Does he still have enough to make one moer comeback?
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