Baltimore tries to rebound in St. Louis - Last week the Ravens were humbled in Tennessee and now they face a very hungry Rams team searching for their first win of the season. Winner: Even in a hostile environment, Flacco and the Ravens cruise to an easy victory, 28-17.
NY Jets travel to the Black Hole to get Sanchez more than a snack - Last time Marc Sanchez and Jets played in Oakland, the young quarterback from New York was seen eating a hot dog on the bench. The Raiders started their season with a huge win against their rival in Denver and narrowly missed escaping Buffalo with a win last week. New York comes in at 2-0, looking to stay in a first place tie with the winner of the Pats/Bills game. Prediction: The J-E-T-S are playing without starting center Nick Mangold. Playing in the Black Hole is always challenging for opponents. I expect a low-scoring, close game. Janikowski's big leg could come into play in the final stages of the game. The Raaaaaaiders (best Chris Berman impression possible) beat the Jets, 17-14.
Struggling Chiefs face off against Rivers & Co. - The Chargers racked up huge yardage last week in New England. Kansas City gives up big plays and big points with such ease it's sickening. Pick: Chargers in a rout, 42-17.
Falcons fly into Tampa for NFC South battle - The Buccaneers need this game way more than the Falcons do. Josh Freeman looks to solidify himself as one of the upper-tier quarterbacks in the NFL in this crucial division match-up. Opposing him is Matt Ryan, who led Atlanta to a come from behind win last Sunday night, giving his team a much needed W after coming out flat in week one at Chicago. Forecast: Atlanta didn't look so hot on the road against the Bears. Freeman and Tampa started slow last week but finished strong to beat the Vikings late in the 4th quarter. Watch for the Bucs to rise up and take out Falcons, 30-27.
Cardinals ride into Seattle to face win-less Seahawks - The home team hasn't looked very good in their first two games, both losses. Arizona is still trying to find their offensive groove as QB Kevin Kolb has shown signs of brilliance in their first couple games, a win against Cam's Panthers and a one point defeat in Washington. Prediction: The Seahawks are a much better home team than road team and this is an divisional game but in the end I expect the Cardinals to come out victorious, 35-30.
NFC Championship rematch Bears/Packers - Rivalry game. Revenge game for Chicago. Opportunity for Green Bay to show the world last year wasn't a one-hit wonder but the beginning of things to come. Can the Bears O-line protect Jay Cutler? Can the Packers score points at will as they've done so consistently? Only time will tell... Outcome: A fierce, gritty match ends with high drama. The Packers go down by double digits early only to pull even deep in the fourth quarter. A Bears turnover opens the door for Mason Crosby to kick a last-second field goal, Packers sneak out with a W, 31-28.
Steelers face off against Manning-less Colts - Pittsburgh so far is a mystery through two games. Which team will show up? The suffocating defensive team from last week that held Seattle to zero points... Or the offensively challenged Steeler team that was embarrassed by their hated-rival Ravens in the opening game of the season? We know Indy is nowhere near the same team without their hall of fame quarterback. The Colts are not even close to the word intimidating as they once were when Peyton was on the field breaking down defenses with surgeonese precision (I think I just created a word, cool right?). Pick: While I'm not yet buying into Big Ben and the Steelers this season, I find it even harder to trust in great-grandpa Kerry Collins on Indy's side of the fence. Pittsburgh massacres the Colts with Manning pacing angrily on the sideline, 38-17.
MNF - Washington. Dallas. Get ready for fireworks - Romo led his team to a fourth quarter comeback win last week by the Bay while enduring a puncture lung and fractured rib. Any questions of Dallas' star QB's toughness should be put to bed. Redskins cornerback DeAngelo Hall has already said "I want to put my helmet on whatever hurts." I personally can't wait for this NFC East showdown and believe this will be a highly emotional game. Winner: The Cowboys should be 2-0 and Washington is 2-0. Dallas as played two road games, the Redskins haven't left the friendly confines of FedEx Field yet. Expect a back and forth game with a surprise ending. With the Cowboys trailing by 4 with under two minutes to go, Romo throws a game-ending interception to, yep big-mouth defender Hall. Skins win a tight one, 35-31.
Last word - Sox lost game one of a doubleheader to the Yanks. The Patriots just lost to the Bills, 34-31. Words can't describe how angry I am right now. We were winning the game 21-0. How in the wild and craaaazy hell does this happen!?!? It's just another day in the NFL apparently. Enjoy the the rest of the games. More to come on this one tomorrow. I leave you with two words: GOOOO RAAAAAAAIDDDDERRRRSSS!!!!
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Football Fever: Quick picks for today's early games
Happy NFL Sunday to everyone! Let's get right to this week's games, plenty of intriguing contests to follow:
Cam the man searching for first win - Carolina's rookie quarterback has looked quite impressive in his first two games. His 422 passing yards in week one were second only to Tom Brady's video game like numbers (517 yards, eat it up Jets fans!!!). Newton has proven many doubters wrong already, but he has still to achieve that elusive first win. The Jacksonville Jaguars head into Charlotte, also searching for their first win and they pass the baton to another first year QB. Blaine Gabbert will try to hand the Panthers their third straight loss and to do that I'm sure he'll be handing off quite often to sensational running back MoJo. Jones-Drew is one of the better runners in the league and I look for him to have a big day for the Jags. Prediction: Newton runs and throws all over Jacksonville, despite a valiant 4th quarter effort from Gabbert, Panthers win a tight one 35-32.
Patriots offense juggernaut heads to Buffalo for battle of unbeatens - Tom Brady leads the defending AFC East champs up north to face the unexpectedly 2-0 Bills. New England has won fifteen in a row in the head to head series, expect more of the same. Even without second year tight end Aaron Hernandez, don't expect the Pats hurry-up offense to miss a beat. Forecast: Close early but Patriots run away with it in the second half, 45-35.
Niners visit Cincy - Bengals first home coupled with San Fran's first road game could mean a long day for Alex Smith and the 49er offense. Don't forget San Francisco is traveling across country and playing the early game. Pick: As tempting as it may be to pick the Niners... Bengals in a close one, 28-25.
Fish fly up to the Dog Pound searching for first victory - Miami tends to play better on the road and Cleveland's steamroller Peyton Hillis will not take part in today's contest (strep throat). Winner: Look for the Dolphins to move the ball all day, Colt McCoy will have to step his game up a notch and play a near flawless game for the Browns to come out on top. Miami secures their first win of the year with a big turnover in the 4th quarter, 24-20.
G-men seek revenge in Philly - Most of us remember the scintillating punt return by Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson last season that was the final nail in New York's coffin. The Giants left the field that day devastated and eager to pay back their bitter rivals. After a week of banter, the G-men head to Philadelphia to take on Michael Vick and the Eagles in an early NFC East showdown. The Eagles are ready to hit the field after failing to close out the Falcons last week in Atlanta. It could have something to do with the fact that Vick was flung into one of his linemen with such force that he left the game with a concussion. Prediction: Giants may come in with guns flaring but the speed of Vick and the Eagles cannot be matched. I expect a shootout to be decided by a couple Eli Manning picks and a big run by Philly's star quarterback. Eagles by four, 31-27.
Minnesota, still searching for win #1, hosts red-hot Detroit - Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford has already been entered in MVP discussions and we're only in Week 3. Vikings quarterback Donovan McNabb still hasn't hit his stride with his offensive teammates, but he does have one of the best players in the NFL in Adrian Peterson in his backfield. Forecast: Despite a ferocious charge by the home team in the final minutes, Lions defeat the Vikings, 38-31.
Texans look to start 3-0 for first time in franchise history - To do that they will have to beat a Saints team that plays as good as any in the comforts of their backyard, the Bayou. New Orleans is fresh off a big win over the Bears last week and hopes to win their second game of the season behind Pro Bowl QB Drew Brees. Winner: Saints by ten, 37-27.
Titans invite Broncos across country for AFC clash - Tennessee delivered one of the biggest shockers last week by destroying previously impressive Baltimore, 26-13, behind a monster game from wide receiver Kenny Britt. Denver head coach John Fox earned his first win with the Broncos last week when they held off the Bengals late touchdown drive, winning 24-22. Now they hit the road for the first time this season, as they try to give the Titans their second loss of the season. Pick: A close game throughout, each team exchanging blows, ultimately ends with the Titans dealing the final shot, 27-21.
Late game picks to come later... GO PATRIOTS!
Cam the man searching for first win - Carolina's rookie quarterback has looked quite impressive in his first two games. His 422 passing yards in week one were second only to Tom Brady's video game like numbers (517 yards, eat it up Jets fans!!!). Newton has proven many doubters wrong already, but he has still to achieve that elusive first win. The Jacksonville Jaguars head into Charlotte, also searching for their first win and they pass the baton to another first year QB. Blaine Gabbert will try to hand the Panthers their third straight loss and to do that I'm sure he'll be handing off quite often to sensational running back MoJo. Jones-Drew is one of the better runners in the league and I look for him to have a big day for the Jags. Prediction: Newton runs and throws all over Jacksonville, despite a valiant 4th quarter effort from Gabbert, Panthers win a tight one 35-32.
Patriots offense juggernaut heads to Buffalo for battle of unbeatens - Tom Brady leads the defending AFC East champs up north to face the unexpectedly 2-0 Bills. New England has won fifteen in a row in the head to head series, expect more of the same. Even without second year tight end Aaron Hernandez, don't expect the Pats hurry-up offense to miss a beat. Forecast: Close early but Patriots run away with it in the second half, 45-35.
Niners visit Cincy - Bengals first home coupled with San Fran's first road game could mean a long day for Alex Smith and the 49er offense. Don't forget San Francisco is traveling across country and playing the early game. Pick: As tempting as it may be to pick the Niners... Bengals in a close one, 28-25.
Fish fly up to the Dog Pound searching for first victory - Miami tends to play better on the road and Cleveland's steamroller Peyton Hillis will not take part in today's contest (strep throat). Winner: Look for the Dolphins to move the ball all day, Colt McCoy will have to step his game up a notch and play a near flawless game for the Browns to come out on top. Miami secures their first win of the year with a big turnover in the 4th quarter, 24-20.
G-men seek revenge in Philly - Most of us remember the scintillating punt return by Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson last season that was the final nail in New York's coffin. The Giants left the field that day devastated and eager to pay back their bitter rivals. After a week of banter, the G-men head to Philadelphia to take on Michael Vick and the Eagles in an early NFC East showdown. The Eagles are ready to hit the field after failing to close out the Falcons last week in Atlanta. It could have something to do with the fact that Vick was flung into one of his linemen with such force that he left the game with a concussion. Prediction: Giants may come in with guns flaring but the speed of Vick and the Eagles cannot be matched. I expect a shootout to be decided by a couple Eli Manning picks and a big run by Philly's star quarterback. Eagles by four, 31-27.
Minnesota, still searching for win #1, hosts red-hot Detroit - Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford has already been entered in MVP discussions and we're only in Week 3. Vikings quarterback Donovan McNabb still hasn't hit his stride with his offensive teammates, but he does have one of the best players in the NFL in Adrian Peterson in his backfield. Forecast: Despite a ferocious charge by the home team in the final minutes, Lions defeat the Vikings, 38-31.
Texans look to start 3-0 for first time in franchise history - To do that they will have to beat a Saints team that plays as good as any in the comforts of their backyard, the Bayou. New Orleans is fresh off a big win over the Bears last week and hopes to win their second game of the season behind Pro Bowl QB Drew Brees. Winner: Saints by ten, 37-27.
Titans invite Broncos across country for AFC clash - Tennessee delivered one of the biggest shockers last week by destroying previously impressive Baltimore, 26-13, behind a monster game from wide receiver Kenny Britt. Denver head coach John Fox earned his first win with the Broncos last week when they held off the Bengals late touchdown drive, winning 24-22. Now they hit the road for the first time this season, as they try to give the Titans their second loss of the season. Pick: A close game throughout, each team exchanging blows, ultimately ends with the Titans dealing the final shot, 27-21.
Late game picks to come later... GO PATRIOTS!
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Sox/Yanks: Clash of Titans
Boston and New York. Two cities constantly competing in every sport. When it comes to basketball, the Knicks and Celtics games get a little hot occasionally. In the world of football, the Patriots beat the Giants in the final game of the 2007 regular season completing their perfect 16-0 regular season. The same game in which Tom Brady and Randy Moss set new NFL touchdown records at their position respectively, with a dramatic TD pass late in the fourth quarter. However, New York would get the last laugh on the grandest of stages. Minutes away from the unfathomable 19-0, the Patriots defense failed to hold off Eli Manning and the Giants offense. The pursuit of perfection came to a screeching halt, all of New England fell silent in shock, and the city of NY had once again struck a crucial blow to their arch-enemy. You have no idea how painful that was reliving all of that just now. So many emotions come to the surface: anger, disappointment, frustration, bitterness, rage, determination, I could keep going. Remember though, the city of New York has TWO football teams. When the Jets hired Rex Ryan to be their new head coach they might as well of injected the Patriots/Jets rivalry with steroids. Ryan made sure to let everyone know "I'm not here to kiss Belichick's rings". Thanks for the heads up Rexy, the Hoody was getting all his shiny championship gear ready so you could pucker up. As a Patriots fan, I gotta be honest and say I love that the Jets brought this guy in. He's just so easy to hate, pick on, and laugh at. A sports lover's dream villain! These two franchises have been connected in so many incredible ways. None more important than perhaps the hit the Jets delivered 10 years ago yesterday. What hit am I talking about? Perhaps, the most imperative moment in history of the National Football League. The year was 2001 and with the horror and devastation of 9/11 only a couple weeks old, the nation looked to the NFL to provide a timely remedy. And when linebacker Mo Lewis of the Jets delivered that crushing shot to Pats quarterback Drew Bledsoe (injuring him so severely that he had to be rushed to the hospital for internal bleeding) it appeared as though the Pats title hopes had also taken a season-ending blow. Boy were we wrong. Onto the field trotted a man that would soon become one of the greatest clutch players in the history of the game. Tom Brady went on to lead New England to a surprising Superbowl victory, one of three championships, and now he is poised to take his seat in the Hall of Fame one day. Fast forward to last season, Patriots finished the year with the best record in the AFC and when they demolished the Jets in December on a cold Monday night in Foxboro, everyone penciled them as conference champs. Too bad New York had other ideas. Led by Mark Sanchez, Rex Ryan, and a defensive line that made Brady's life hell for about three hours, the Jets dominated New England, thus eliminating them from the playoffs and sending them home to think about what could have been. See any trends here? These two cities love making life a LIVING HELL for each other. Which leads us to...
Red Sox, Yankees, nuff said. Arguably the best rivalry in sports takes on a whole new life this weekend when the slumping Sox head into the Bronx to face the 2011 AL East champs (damn that leaves a bitter taste in my mouth). Here's what we know: the Yanks clinched the division crown after defeating the red-headed step child of the division, the Rays. All season long New York and Boston have been battling for the top spot in the division and now Boston is hanging on for their postseason lives. The first game was rained out Friday night setting up for a doubleheader on Sunday. Boston will send Lester, Wakefield, and Lackey (cringing in fear) to the mound for the three game set. They will be opposed by Garcia, Burnett, and Nova. The Yankees catcher Russell Martin was quoted a few days ago saying "I hate the Red Sox". Really Russell? No way! Say it ain't so! Well guess what buddy, Red Sox Nation hates you too! Sorry, I told you it's hard to keep my emotions in check sometimes. Martin went on to say "anything that gets the Red Sox out is awesome to me." Does that answer all your questions on how the Yanks will play their bitter rivals this weekend? The members of the Red Sox woke up to a pleasant surprise this morning, the Rays and Angels both lost last night, increasing their lead for each for the wild card. The Beantown bombers have take 11 out of 15 games from the Yanks this season so there is reason for optimisim. In fact the Sox are undefeated this year in the Bronx. I don't expect another sweep, I mean let's be honest with the way Boston's been playing a team of high school kids could beat them right now. I see the Sox winning tonight and splitting the doubleheader tomorrow... GO BOSOX!!!
P.S. - I wrote this earlier this afternoon and thought I posted it, however I was mistaken. Yes, I know my prediction for a Boston victory was wrong. I saw the Yanks won. Yes, it's extremely aggravating. I'm beyond frustrated with my beloved team. No, we are not throwing in the towel. Oh yeah, and LET'S GO BLUE JAYS!!!! Beat the Rays... PLEASE!!
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Finally I'm back... and better than ever!!!
Well hello there! Remember me? I know it feels like a lifetime since my last post. Believe it or not I actually did not get eaten by an alligator! My creative son, Brendan, tells at least one person every day, "You know, I just saw an alligator eat a bird today!" This storytelling five year old with my last name then watches with great satisfaction as that poor gullible person questions him in horror and discomfort to investigate if he truly was a witness to this gruesome scene. Welcome to my life. My son may not have the same passion and enthusiasm for sports as I do but boy does this kid remember every last detail of any book, movie or show he comes in contact with. Brendan turned five on July 26 and now feels the need to tell me about twenty times a week that he's no longer four and "I going to be six soon you know!" Relax champ. Cool it smarty pants. Simmer down B machine! These are all classic responses that I issue on a daily basis. He may be five technically but I swear my son found a warp tunnel, just like our old-school Super Mario Bros. had in level 1-2, he's definitely jumped off the moving plank, manged to land on top of the wall and found the ever so enticing warp tunnels. Thankfully he didn't jump all the way to teenage years but I promise you he talks to me like he's ten. As I said before, welcome to my life. Almost two weeks removed from turning thirty, I thank the good Lord every day for the entertainment my wild, always energetic, and loving son brings me without fail every morning at or around 7:00am. What a guy! Now on to the good stuff!
I really am a genius. Sorry to come across so confident and cocky but I prefer to be described as the collected, well-thought, and dedicated planner. Alright, so maybe I'm slightly exaggerating. Honestly though, what better time to start up my sports column than now?!? There's so much to write about and discuss it's like a blogger's dream! The long, never-ending baseball regular season is drawing to a close which means the Hunt for October is right around the corner. Gut-wrenching pennant chases, last minute wild-card races, and dramatic collapses (disclaimer to all Yankees fans: don't even think about mentioning my Red Sox, I'm well aware that they are on the doorstep of one of the most historic, embarrassing crumbles that we've ever seen). Legends will be born, villains will cause chaos, and it appears more likely by the day that a new champion will be crowned. Did I reel you in yet? No? That's fine, that was only baseball. I'm just getting warmed up...
College football is making a serious charge at being the number one sport in the country. Anyone watch that Notre Dame Michigan game a week and a half ago? What an incredible game! The first night game at the Big House didn't disappoint one bit! Let's be honest, everyone cares about Notre Dame. They fall into the category of the New England Patriots, New York Yankees, Duke men's basketball, UConn women's basketball, LA Lakers, Tiger Woods, Serena Williams, etc. What do these teams and sports icons have in common? People either love them or hate them. They either revered or despised. Bottom line: People have an interest in them, whether it's positive or negative, it's still an interest. Back to college football, (sorry for trailing off, I told you I was excited to be back) what is going to be the end result with all these teams switching conferences? Which conference will be the new powerhouse in the country? Who's the best team in the country? Which team is flying under the national radar, poised to climb the rankings and sneak into the title game? Have I engaged your interest even just slightly? Maybe? Excellent, because that appetizer leads to the main course!
(Cue the Fox NFL Sunday music) And now it's time for our main event... the National Football League. The enormous smile I'm sporting right now can hardly be described! Every sports fan around the globe knows September means one thing - the return of your favorite NFL team! A new opportunity, a fresh start, a chance to become a champion! These are all the thoughts of a normal, down-to-earth football enthusiast. Then you cross over into my world, the world of sports-obsessed Patriots fan. I'm already dreaming about the drubbing my beloved Pats will put on the hated Jets and Giants. I'm envisioning true satisfaction and happiness watching either or both of those teams go through the excruciating pain of losing each and every week. Would I accept a New England loss to ensure a crushing defeat for one of our despised enemies?Yep, that's me. The Lowcountry sportscaster at your service. Power rankings, weekly previews, MVP watches, rookie of the year candidates, fearless forecasts and much more lie ahead for the football lovers out there. Great first day back! I've thoroughly enjoyed it! Can't wait for tomorrow, I hope you all feel the same way. I welcome your feedback. Games to watch tonight would definitely include: Sox vs. O's, Yanks n Rays, Angels/Jays, Bravos against the Fish, and Cards/Mets. This wild card chase is coming down to the wire, let's see if the Sox and Braves can hold onto it! Till next time... Long live Red Sox Nation!
p.s. - Thanks New York for taking out Tampa today, all of us BoSox fans sure do appreciate it :)
I really am a genius. Sorry to come across so confident and cocky but I prefer to be described as the collected, well-thought, and dedicated planner. Alright, so maybe I'm slightly exaggerating. Honestly though, what better time to start up my sports column than now?!? There's so much to write about and discuss it's like a blogger's dream! The long, never-ending baseball regular season is drawing to a close which means the Hunt for October is right around the corner. Gut-wrenching pennant chases, last minute wild-card races, and dramatic collapses (disclaimer to all Yankees fans: don't even think about mentioning my Red Sox, I'm well aware that they are on the doorstep of one of the most historic, embarrassing crumbles that we've ever seen). Legends will be born, villains will cause chaos, and it appears more likely by the day that a new champion will be crowned. Did I reel you in yet? No? That's fine, that was only baseball. I'm just getting warmed up...
College football is making a serious charge at being the number one sport in the country. Anyone watch that Notre Dame Michigan game a week and a half ago? What an incredible game! The first night game at the Big House didn't disappoint one bit! Let's be honest, everyone cares about Notre Dame. They fall into the category of the New England Patriots, New York Yankees, Duke men's basketball, UConn women's basketball, LA Lakers, Tiger Woods, Serena Williams, etc. What do these teams and sports icons have in common? People either love them or hate them. They either revered or despised. Bottom line: People have an interest in them, whether it's positive or negative, it's still an interest. Back to college football, (sorry for trailing off, I told you I was excited to be back) what is going to be the end result with all these teams switching conferences? Which conference will be the new powerhouse in the country? Who's the best team in the country? Which team is flying under the national radar, poised to climb the rankings and sneak into the title game? Have I engaged your interest even just slightly? Maybe? Excellent, because that appetizer leads to the main course!
(Cue the Fox NFL Sunday music) And now it's time for our main event... the National Football League. The enormous smile I'm sporting right now can hardly be described! Every sports fan around the globe knows September means one thing - the return of your favorite NFL team! A new opportunity, a fresh start, a chance to become a champion! These are all the thoughts of a normal, down-to-earth football enthusiast. Then you cross over into my world, the world of sports-obsessed Patriots fan. I'm already dreaming about the drubbing my beloved Pats will put on the hated Jets and Giants. I'm envisioning true satisfaction and happiness watching either or both of those teams go through the excruciating pain of losing each and every week. Would I accept a New England loss to ensure a crushing defeat for one of our despised enemies?Yep, that's me. The Lowcountry sportscaster at your service. Power rankings, weekly previews, MVP watches, rookie of the year candidates, fearless forecasts and much more lie ahead for the football lovers out there. Great first day back! I've thoroughly enjoyed it! Can't wait for tomorrow, I hope you all feel the same way. I welcome your feedback. Games to watch tonight would definitely include: Sox vs. O's, Yanks n Rays, Angels/Jays, Bravos against the Fish, and Cards/Mets. This wild card chase is coming down to the wire, let's see if the Sox and Braves can hold onto it! Till next time... Long live Red Sox Nation!
p.s. - Thanks New York for taking out Tampa today, all of us BoSox fans sure do appreciate it :)
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Inside the head of a sports fanatic
Greetings everyone! It has been almost two weeks since my last entry. Life gets busy sometimes, especially when you're a restaurant general manager and a single father taking care of a three and a half year old that thinks he's seven. Anyways I thought it would be fun for everyone to take a dive into my brain and see what it's like viewing life through the eyes of a sports obsessed guy. So here goes...
So much time so little to do! Wait... strike that, reverse it! Tiger apologies. My opinion: he has a really, really good PR team writing for him. Like I've told people before, in this day and age, all famous need to do is apologize on TV, completely throw themselves at the mercy of the public, shoulder all the blame, and ask for forgiveness and support. I especially like when took a stand against the paparazzi and told them to leave his family alone. Very powerful stuff, and it will go a long way with people everywhere. I expect Woods to return sometime around June, three more months of training for the most colossal heckling he's about to receive should do it. Seriously though, you think college students are bad at sporting events? drunk 38 year old men at NFL games? Think again. We will see a whole new low of fan taunting when Woods returns to the PGA Tour. And my belief is most people will react with: that's so terrible, the man apologized give him a second chance. Yet they will keep their TV on and read every article about the jeers and jokes directed Tiger's way.
College basketball is really starting to heat up. Lots of great games left and right. Pitt defeated West Virginia in a triple overtime classic recently. UConn went into Villanova and handed the Cats their first home loss of the season. The Orangemen lost at home to Louisville. I'm telling you this will be one memorable March. The conference tourneys will be intense and the big dance is going to turn your world upside down. Selection Sunday is three weeks from Sunday, one of my favorite days of the year. I was checking out my boy Joe Lunardi's latest bracketology predictions and low and behold he has Purdue as the 4th number 1 seed. Anyone care to go back to my last article and see one of my darkhorse favorites for the Final Four is.... Purdue? Nuff said, my sports knowledge is unreal and unfair.
Spring Training is upon us. Pitchers and catchers reported 2 days ago, position players report on Monday and first official workout is scheduled for Wednesday the 24th, that is the schedule for my beloved BoSox at least. I really don't get too pumped for baseball for another month. The start of MLB 2010 regular season takes place at the greatest venue in sports - Fenway Park. Fate would have it that the Sox open and close their season in Beantown against a familiar foe, our bitter rivals, the defending champion Yankees. Personally, this is the smartest thing major league baseball has done in years. Start and end the season with the most intense rivalry in sports. Anytime the Sox n Yanks meet up it's an epic clash of titans. In one month's time I will extremely juiced up (sorry Canseco for stealing your line) for baseball and we'll breakdown the upcoming season for Boston and NY. Till then let's just sleep on beautiful thoughts such as A-rod striking out on three pitches in the ninth inning with the Fenway faithful going bonkers in the background. Now that's what I'm talking bout!
The NBA trade system needs some revamping and retooling. It's absolutely absurd to me that Cleveland can retrieve one of the essential players in 30 days that they just gave away in a trade. Just makes the entire trade a joke. Go ahead, ask Phil Jackson or Doc Rivers. They'll give spirited responses. With that said, I think the Cavs made a big mistake. Reports throughout all-star weekend had Amare heading to Cleveland to pair with King James and form an unstoppable tandem. Instead they chose Antwan Jamison. This move could prove deadly on two counts: 1 - it could cause them a championship. Stoudemire was the missing piece to the puzzle. Now they will have to rely on an aging Shaq, who is a shell of his former self. I for one can't wait to see how he performs in the playoffs. Jamison is 33 years old and has never played for a team with such huge expectations. Undoubtedly the Cavs will head into the playoffs for the 2nd consecutive year as the favorite to represent the East in the Finals. We all saw what happened last year when the world penciled in Kobe and Lebron to meet up, my boys, the Magic, spoiled the party. I have good reason to believe the same thing could happen this year. Orlando has one of the deepest teams in the league, next to the Lakers. And last time I checked, LA plays in the Western Conference. Case in point, watch an NBA game this Sunday. The Magic host the Cavs in what should be a great game and most likey a preview of the Eastern Conf. Finals. Cleveland won the most recent matchup but that was in the friendly confines of Ohio. Best thing to remember about the NBA is that the real season starts in April, when the playoffs begin. Till then enjoy some dunks here and there and the occasional nail-biter between two powerhouse teams.
Lastly, the NFL Draft is on the horizon. It's amazing that the NFL has become so damn popular that people get so amped up for an event where no live sport takes place. It's astounding. And just think, we might not have football in the fall of 2011! Unbelieveable? yes. Preposterous? absolutely. Impossible? unfortunately not. Personally, I'm preparing myself for a lockout. The owners and players are both stuck on their sides of the spectrum and neither appears like they will budge any time soon. I know we have a whole season to go but the comments we are hearing from players high up in the union are extremely discouraging. Here's an interesting point of view on this situation: 1) The NFL is a multi-BILLION dollar business for starters but let's pretend it's a regular business. Imagine an employee telling their boss, "hey I want to see all the paperwork from 2009 on income, profits, losses, etc." What would the boss say? Imagine if a boss went to an employee and said "Hey can you take a slight paycut so we can enhance our facilities to ensure our growth in the future?" Interesting questions right? Well the first question is what the players are asking of the owners. The second question is what the owners aren't asking, they are demanding of the players. Owners say too many teams have lost money in recent years and the costs of new stadiums are ballooning at an exponential rate. Players feel they are being misled by the owners and want to see the proof of these losses, requesting to see financial statements for each team. I just can't believe a business that creates BILLIONS of dollars annually can't look at the harsh reality of today: we make a lot of money, more than a lot of money, people love our product, the demand for our product is at an all-time high, we can't risk our image and lose the faith of our fans, let's compromise and find a happy medium for the sake of this long-time American sport and the desire of our die-hard fans. Sadly, I believe the rich just want to get richer and once greed sets in there's not a whole that can be done. What happened to the fat cat CEOs on Wall Street when the housing market crashed? Now I'm not saying the NFL will crash, but if football does not take place in the fall of 2011 it will take a serious hit. We are a year and a half away from this devastating, possible catastrophe. For now, let's just enjoy the draft and try to understand exactly what the hell is going to happen in this "uncapped" season.
That's enough for now. Gotta get ready for work and the lil guy is tearing my house apart. Hopefully the next article will come sooner than two weeks. Till then, enjoy college basketball Saturday. Lots of good games today, upset special to watch for: Vandy over Kentucky. UK has been on a roll, especially with the likes of John Wall flying all over the court. Something just tells me to expect a big home win for the Commodores. Happy basketball season everyone! The countdown for March Madness is on!
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Super Sunday and my top ten debuts
It's been a while since my last blog, I apologize for my hiatus. Today is one of my favorite days of the year: SuperBowl Sunday! The best and worst day. It's the greatest because we get to watch two teams fight for NFL supremacy, but extremely sad due to the fact that we won't have any meaningful football games until September, damn that hurts just saying that out loud. But let's focus on the positive. I thought I would discuss the top 10 things on my mind lately, and let you get into the head of a sports fanatic! SuperBowl pick lies ahead. Let's dive in...
10) Golf without Tiger Woods is really boring: I have a hard time getting into golf already. Actually in all honesty I can't stand when people come to my restaurant and request golf on tv. However with Tiger at least there's someone who can capture your interest in only the way truly special athletes are able to. It will be very interesting to see how the public reacts when he finally resurfaces. I predict we will get an on camera apology in the next month, followed by a mediocore performance at the first tournament he participates in, but be cautious. Does anyone remember what A-Rod did went through controversy? He only went on to the Yanks back to the promiseland and win his first championship. People will be very critical and judgemental of Tiger at first, but don't forget this is the 2010 version of America. We love drama. We enjoy watching someone fall and fall hard Tiger did no doubt about that. Yet we also admire those who pick themselves back up and rise to the occasion to achieve greatness. Should be a wild, fun ride watching Tiger on the PGA Tour in 2010, just sayin.
9) Lannnnnne Kiffin, it's time, you got that right: I personally found it amusing how angry and upset the people of Tennessee got when they lost this snake. I'm not particularly fond of Kiffin, especially after the way he went after Gator coach Urban Meyer with false accusations almost immediately upon his arrival in Volunteer state. Funny that Kiffin was the one the NCAA ended up investigating isn't it? He left Tenn high and dry and that the most crucial part of the year, the week before signing day. The Vols survived and USC got their man. Who is else is rooting for a USC/Tenn bowl game in December? Talk about some good drama!
8) Scott Brown pulls the upset of the decade at the final hour: you all know I'm not one for politics. I just couldn't help but like the way Brown approached the situation. Apparently Kennedy's widow kept saying over and over again in publications, "we need everyone's help to save Kennedy's seat". Upon hearing this Brown fired up enough massholes to vote in his direction with a strong a statement as any, "It's not the Kennedy seat, it's the peoples' seat!" Should be quite interesting to see how this affects the world of politics this year and next!
7) Beware the ides of March: As football winds down, basketball is in full bloom. Pro ball won't be interesting until late April when the playoffs begin. Till then we will have plenty of exciting college basketball to keep us entertained, especially when rivalry games are played. There's already been a ton of upsets and don't see it stopping anytime soon. March Madness will hopefully be extra mad this year causing bracketbusters all around the country. Nothng beats days one and two of the tournament. 32 games in 2 days! Sounds like heaven to me! If I had to give you my Final Four favs right now I would go with: Kansas, Syracuse, Kentucky, and Michigan State. However, darkhorse favorites have to be West Virginia and even Purdue.
6) NFL 2011 season... cancelled: WHAT THE $#&*#$@!?!? Ok take a deep breath everyone. That statement is not true... at least not yet. The looming war between players and owners has already begun. The owners say the players are getting too much of the pie right now. Players know they have a great thing going for them right now. The sport produces over $8 BILLION!!! Can you believe that? What a crazy amount of money! Don't point a finger at anyone though, we have no one to blame but ourselves. We created this beast and now must deal with the idea of losing it for a short period of time. The players say the owners want a lockout. Sources say the NFL owners would still get $5 Billion from tv contracts even if no football is played in 2011. This situation needs to be monitored closely. The first domino to fall will be on March 5 when the 2010 season will officially be a uncapped year if no deal is in place. With no salary cap there is no floor or ceiling. No player mininum or maximum. There will be certain restrictions on free agents. Basically chaos will slowly begin. Don't worry I'll keep an eye on all this for you.
5) NBA superstar sweepstakes is only 4 months away: Lebron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Amare Stoudemire, Dirk Nowitzki just to name a few. All of these incredible players will be on the free agent market able to sign with any team they like. Lebron and Wade figure to be at the top of the class. Many believe King James is on his way out of Cleveland. I think he'll test the waters and ultimately end up back in Ohio. The craziest rumors I heard is that Bron n Bosh are trying to go to the same city. Now that's an idea. Either way, this summer figures to be filled with lots of breaking news updates on ESPN with where Lebron's private jet landed, who had dinner with, etc etc. I'll be watching Mr. Wade to see if he leaves Miami for oh I don't know, say Dallas?
4) College football needs a playoff system, says Mr. Prez: Now we all know how important the spots world is to me. I tell people all the time that I don't watch CNN. I watch the real news, ESPN. After all that being said, what the heck is our president doing focusing on bringing a playoff system to college football? Didn't we elect him to handle all that politics garbage so we can focus on the good stuff - sports?! I appreciate his efforts but c'mon Obama get this country going in the right direction and leave the pigskin problems to men like Kirk Herbstreit, Chris Fowler, Mel Kiper Jr., hell even Lee Corso! Would I love to see a playoff system for college football? Absolutely. Do I expect to see it in the next 5-7 years? Not a chance. The current system is setup perfectly to handle all the money brought in by college football. I understand the situation and how it affects the sport. The regular season is one giant playoff tournament. Like it or hate it, it is what it is. I just think our president should leave sports to us and focus on creating more jobs, fixing our economy or even fixing the mortgage situation so people like me can live with just a regualar amount of stress in life instead of the current super-stress environment that is currently engulfing our nation. Ok that's all. How did I get back to politics? No more, I promise.
3) As Favre's world turns begins its next season in March: It's almost that time of the year where we start guessing what America's favorite gunslinger will do. My guess is he finally hangs up his pads. Anyone happen to see his last game? Sure he hates his last throw of the game, a back-breaking interception that sealed the Vikings fate in regulation and gave the Saints new life in overtime. What felt like moments later, Favre sat on his bench and could only watch the New Orleans players and fans rejoiced together as the Saints clinched their first-ever berth in the NFL's big dance. But more importantly did you see how badly the Saints D beat up the 40 year old QB. Brett took some vicious hits that would have sidelined many a player. But the notoriously tough Favre played the entire game and fought through all his teammates fumbles, coming up just 3 points short of achieving his goal of making SuperBowl XLIV. Now what does he do? Come back for one more year to try and lead the Vikes to the big show? My first instinct tells me he retires due to the punishment his body took this season, particularly his last game. However, my gut tells me Favre's competitve juices are still flowing and maybe even stronger than ever. Don't be suprised to hear in July that he's flying on a jet to Minnesota, and that same day we see that old, familiar face on tv, grey beard and all, coming back for 'one more year'. As I said - As Favre's world turns!
2) World Cup 2010 is almost here: To be honest with you I don't know a lot about soccer. I wish I knew more. I really never used to get into the World Cup until 2006. I thoroughly enjoyed cheering for Italy and loved watching them hoist the trophy at the tourney's end. (I actually was running through the kitchen at Truffles yelling "VIVA ITALIA!!" much to the dislike of the cooks.) I wish I could tell you who the favorite is this year, but I can't even tell you that. Obviously Brazil is always a contender but beyond that your guess is as good as mine. As we closer to this worldwide event, more info will come. Till then you know who I'll be rooting for at least: VIVA ITALIA!
1) Superbowl XLIV: This game could have been one for the ages. Just imagine for a minute if both Jim Caldwell and Sean Payton had the same brass cockiness and swagger that Bill Belichick had in 2007 and pushed their teams in the final weeks instead of resting them. We could have had a meeting of two 18-0 teams, talk about a super matchup. And if that's not enough, the game is taking place in the home of the only undefeated team in the history of football: Miami. What an unbelievable scene. The 72 Dolphins remain the only team ever to start and finish a season unblemished. Truly, this game really could have been the greatest game ever played. We would have been guaranteed the first 19-0 team in the history of the league. Instead we'll just have to deal with watching the two hottest offenses in the league go back and forth. I'm just hoping it's not a blowout. Understand I am pulling for the Saints 100% but that doesn't mean I believe they'll win. Unfortunately for the city of New Orleans, Archie's oldest son is playing the best football of his career right now. Watching Peyton Manning on the field right now is like watching Jordan in the final minute of a game, Michael Phelps on the last leg of a race or Lance Armstrong in the mountains. These athletes have the incredible rare ability to rise above all others in their sport and perform at a level very few reach. Manning truly is in a class of his own. Personally, I don't like the Colts and I can't stand Peyton as he leads my team's rival. But regardless of if you love him or hate him, you have to respect him. I believe the Saints will learn this by the end of Sunday night. Dwight Freeney's injury could be devastating to the Colts defense but the game's most important player will play. Manning's experience combined with his physical and mental dominance should lead the Colts to a win. I love the story of WHO DAT nation but I just don't see the Saints D getting critical stops when they need to. Darren Sharper needs to make big plays throughout the game and Brees must lead his team to touchdowns every time they touch the football. I envision the Colts flying out of the gate on their way to a double digit lead. Initially the Saints might struggle with the big stage but the game will be won in the 4th quarter. Both the Colts and Saints played games on this field earlier in the season. Indy only scored 13 points through the first three quarters, but torched the Miami D for two late TDs to win the game by 4. The Saints on the other hand were getting massacred by the Dolphins, trailing by 21 at one point in the first half. However, Brees led a furious rally, outscoring Miami 36-10 in the 2nd half, including 22 points in the fourth quarter alone. I believe we might see a similar New Orleans rally late but Peyton is too good right now with the game on the line and the ball in his hands. I mean, c'mon the guy calls his own plays for crying out loud!!! Let's look forward to a high-scoring, competitive game but in the end Indy wins by a score of 38-33, winning their 2nd championship in four years. And so the debates will begin about who is the better QB: Brady or Manning. Let's leave that one for another day shall we? I'm already having a hard enough time dealing with the Colts' success this season. No need to throw salt in my wounds right? Happy SuperBowl Sunday everyone!
10) Golf without Tiger Woods is really boring: I have a hard time getting into golf already. Actually in all honesty I can't stand when people come to my restaurant and request golf on tv. However with Tiger at least there's someone who can capture your interest in only the way truly special athletes are able to. It will be very interesting to see how the public reacts when he finally resurfaces. I predict we will get an on camera apology in the next month, followed by a mediocore performance at the first tournament he participates in, but be cautious. Does anyone remember what A-Rod did went through controversy? He only went on to the Yanks back to the promiseland and win his first championship. People will be very critical and judgemental of Tiger at first, but don't forget this is the 2010 version of America. We love drama. We enjoy watching someone fall and fall hard Tiger did no doubt about that. Yet we also admire those who pick themselves back up and rise to the occasion to achieve greatness. Should be a wild, fun ride watching Tiger on the PGA Tour in 2010, just sayin.
9) Lannnnnne Kiffin, it's time, you got that right: I personally found it amusing how angry and upset the people of Tennessee got when they lost this snake. I'm not particularly fond of Kiffin, especially after the way he went after Gator coach Urban Meyer with false accusations almost immediately upon his arrival in Volunteer state. Funny that Kiffin was the one the NCAA ended up investigating isn't it? He left Tenn high and dry and that the most crucial part of the year, the week before signing day. The Vols survived and USC got their man. Who is else is rooting for a USC/Tenn bowl game in December? Talk about some good drama!
8) Scott Brown pulls the upset of the decade at the final hour: you all know I'm not one for politics. I just couldn't help but like the way Brown approached the situation. Apparently Kennedy's widow kept saying over and over again in publications, "we need everyone's help to save Kennedy's seat". Upon hearing this Brown fired up enough massholes to vote in his direction with a strong a statement as any, "It's not the Kennedy seat, it's the peoples' seat!" Should be quite interesting to see how this affects the world of politics this year and next!
7) Beware the ides of March: As football winds down, basketball is in full bloom. Pro ball won't be interesting until late April when the playoffs begin. Till then we will have plenty of exciting college basketball to keep us entertained, especially when rivalry games are played. There's already been a ton of upsets and don't see it stopping anytime soon. March Madness will hopefully be extra mad this year causing bracketbusters all around the country. Nothng beats days one and two of the tournament. 32 games in 2 days! Sounds like heaven to me! If I had to give you my Final Four favs right now I would go with: Kansas, Syracuse, Kentucky, and Michigan State. However, darkhorse favorites have to be West Virginia and even Purdue.
6) NFL 2011 season... cancelled: WHAT THE $#&*#$@!?!? Ok take a deep breath everyone. That statement is not true... at least not yet. The looming war between players and owners has already begun. The owners say the players are getting too much of the pie right now. Players know they have a great thing going for them right now. The sport produces over $8 BILLION!!! Can you believe that? What a crazy amount of money! Don't point a finger at anyone though, we have no one to blame but ourselves. We created this beast and now must deal with the idea of losing it for a short period of time. The players say the owners want a lockout. Sources say the NFL owners would still get $5 Billion from tv contracts even if no football is played in 2011. This situation needs to be monitored closely. The first domino to fall will be on March 5 when the 2010 season will officially be a uncapped year if no deal is in place. With no salary cap there is no floor or ceiling. No player mininum or maximum. There will be certain restrictions on free agents. Basically chaos will slowly begin. Don't worry I'll keep an eye on all this for you.
5) NBA superstar sweepstakes is only 4 months away: Lebron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Amare Stoudemire, Dirk Nowitzki just to name a few. All of these incredible players will be on the free agent market able to sign with any team they like. Lebron and Wade figure to be at the top of the class. Many believe King James is on his way out of Cleveland. I think he'll test the waters and ultimately end up back in Ohio. The craziest rumors I heard is that Bron n Bosh are trying to go to the same city. Now that's an idea. Either way, this summer figures to be filled with lots of breaking news updates on ESPN with where Lebron's private jet landed, who had dinner with, etc etc. I'll be watching Mr. Wade to see if he leaves Miami for oh I don't know, say Dallas?
4) College football needs a playoff system, says Mr. Prez: Now we all know how important the spots world is to me. I tell people all the time that I don't watch CNN. I watch the real news, ESPN. After all that being said, what the heck is our president doing focusing on bringing a playoff system to college football? Didn't we elect him to handle all that politics garbage so we can focus on the good stuff - sports?! I appreciate his efforts but c'mon Obama get this country going in the right direction and leave the pigskin problems to men like Kirk Herbstreit, Chris Fowler, Mel Kiper Jr., hell even Lee Corso! Would I love to see a playoff system for college football? Absolutely. Do I expect to see it in the next 5-7 years? Not a chance. The current system is setup perfectly to handle all the money brought in by college football. I understand the situation and how it affects the sport. The regular season is one giant playoff tournament. Like it or hate it, it is what it is. I just think our president should leave sports to us and focus on creating more jobs, fixing our economy or even fixing the mortgage situation so people like me can live with just a regualar amount of stress in life instead of the current super-stress environment that is currently engulfing our nation. Ok that's all. How did I get back to politics? No more, I promise.
3) As Favre's world turns begins its next season in March: It's almost that time of the year where we start guessing what America's favorite gunslinger will do. My guess is he finally hangs up his pads. Anyone happen to see his last game? Sure he hates his last throw of the game, a back-breaking interception that sealed the Vikings fate in regulation and gave the Saints new life in overtime. What felt like moments later, Favre sat on his bench and could only watch the New Orleans players and fans rejoiced together as the Saints clinched their first-ever berth in the NFL's big dance. But more importantly did you see how badly the Saints D beat up the 40 year old QB. Brett took some vicious hits that would have sidelined many a player. But the notoriously tough Favre played the entire game and fought through all his teammates fumbles, coming up just 3 points short of achieving his goal of making SuperBowl XLIV. Now what does he do? Come back for one more year to try and lead the Vikes to the big show? My first instinct tells me he retires due to the punishment his body took this season, particularly his last game. However, my gut tells me Favre's competitve juices are still flowing and maybe even stronger than ever. Don't be suprised to hear in July that he's flying on a jet to Minnesota, and that same day we see that old, familiar face on tv, grey beard and all, coming back for 'one more year'. As I said - As Favre's world turns!
2) World Cup 2010 is almost here: To be honest with you I don't know a lot about soccer. I wish I knew more. I really never used to get into the World Cup until 2006. I thoroughly enjoyed cheering for Italy and loved watching them hoist the trophy at the tourney's end. (I actually was running through the kitchen at Truffles yelling "VIVA ITALIA!!" much to the dislike of the cooks.) I wish I could tell you who the favorite is this year, but I can't even tell you that. Obviously Brazil is always a contender but beyond that your guess is as good as mine. As we closer to this worldwide event, more info will come. Till then you know who I'll be rooting for at least: VIVA ITALIA!
1) Superbowl XLIV: This game could have been one for the ages. Just imagine for a minute if both Jim Caldwell and Sean Payton had the same brass cockiness and swagger that Bill Belichick had in 2007 and pushed their teams in the final weeks instead of resting them. We could have had a meeting of two 18-0 teams, talk about a super matchup. And if that's not enough, the game is taking place in the home of the only undefeated team in the history of football: Miami. What an unbelievable scene. The 72 Dolphins remain the only team ever to start and finish a season unblemished. Truly, this game really could have been the greatest game ever played. We would have been guaranteed the first 19-0 team in the history of the league. Instead we'll just have to deal with watching the two hottest offenses in the league go back and forth. I'm just hoping it's not a blowout. Understand I am pulling for the Saints 100% but that doesn't mean I believe they'll win. Unfortunately for the city of New Orleans, Archie's oldest son is playing the best football of his career right now. Watching Peyton Manning on the field right now is like watching Jordan in the final minute of a game, Michael Phelps on the last leg of a race or Lance Armstrong in the mountains. These athletes have the incredible rare ability to rise above all others in their sport and perform at a level very few reach. Manning truly is in a class of his own. Personally, I don't like the Colts and I can't stand Peyton as he leads my team's rival. But regardless of if you love him or hate him, you have to respect him. I believe the Saints will learn this by the end of Sunday night. Dwight Freeney's injury could be devastating to the Colts defense but the game's most important player will play. Manning's experience combined with his physical and mental dominance should lead the Colts to a win. I love the story of WHO DAT nation but I just don't see the Saints D getting critical stops when they need to. Darren Sharper needs to make big plays throughout the game and Brees must lead his team to touchdowns every time they touch the football. I envision the Colts flying out of the gate on their way to a double digit lead. Initially the Saints might struggle with the big stage but the game will be won in the 4th quarter. Both the Colts and Saints played games on this field earlier in the season. Indy only scored 13 points through the first three quarters, but torched the Miami D for two late TDs to win the game by 4. The Saints on the other hand were getting massacred by the Dolphins, trailing by 21 at one point in the first half. However, Brees led a furious rally, outscoring Miami 36-10 in the 2nd half, including 22 points in the fourth quarter alone. I believe we might see a similar New Orleans rally late but Peyton is too good right now with the game on the line and the ball in his hands. I mean, c'mon the guy calls his own plays for crying out loud!!! Let's look forward to a high-scoring, competitive game but in the end Indy wins by a score of 38-33, winning their 2nd championship in four years. And so the debates will begin about who is the better QB: Brady or Manning. Let's leave that one for another day shall we? I'm already having a hard enough time dealing with the Colts' success this season. No need to throw salt in my wounds right? Happy SuperBowl Sunday everyone!
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Fearless predictions for championship sunday
We are less than 13 hours away from knowing the matchup of Superbowl XLIV. Championship sunday has always been one of my favorite days. It's an awesome day but also a sad one. Awesome because there's two great games to watch. However, depressing at the same time because after Championship Sunday there's only one game left and then we must wait a very long, painful seven months for the next meaningful football game. Yikes! The sound of that statement just hurts.
The final four for the 2009-10 season consists of: Indianapolis Colts, New Orleans Saints, Minnesota Vikings, and yes, indeed, the New York Jets. Four teams + two spots up for grabs = one helluva day of football! I am super-stoked to watch lots of football Sunday beginning at 3pm, ending somewhere around 10pm. First game: Colts vs. Jets. Best regular season quarterback Peyton Manning leads his team against the upstart underdogs that came out of nowhere. Led by a rookie QB how much of a chance do they really have? Actually, a pretty good one. I see this game going one of two ways. 1) Indy gets out to a quick 14-0 lead, the Jets go away from the gameplan of running the ball and Sanchez turns the ball over a couple times, 24-3 Colts at the half and thirty minutes later Manning is all smiles.... or.... 2) Tight game throughout the first 45 minutes. 4th quarter rolls around and the Jets get a monstrous turnover that leads to points and then one of the their beast running backs tacks on a TD for some breathing room, the defense holds and the Jets pull off one of the biggest upsets in NFL history. I don't know why but I have a bad feeling we'll be seeing Rex Ryan smiling ear to ear at his press conference after the game sayin, "I told you we would be in the Superbowl." I went 1-3 last week in my picks, let's hope I'm wrong on this one - Jets 24 Colts 20.
NFC Championship: Vikings at Saints. This game will be the first ever NFC Championship game hosted by New Orleans. The Saints are one of the few teams in the NFL that have never played in the Superbowl. Think about it for a minute. The rowdy crowd down in the bayou behind their fans like never before with such a huge prize on the line. Only one small problem. On the other side of the field stands a man who's been there before. At 40 years old, Brett Favre knows he doesn't have much time left. He understands he must make the most of his opportunities. That's what makes this game so crucial for him and the Minnesota Vikings. The up and down season of the Vikes all came together last week in a playoff game against Dallas. Minnesota held the the hated Cowboys to a measly 3 points and Favre threw 4 touchdown passes. The most impressive part of their game was their defense that harassed Tony Romo all day long, never allowing him to get comfortable. I don't see them doing this to Drew Brees. This game is on the road and I believe that will be the deciding factor for the Vikings as they struggled all season away from the Metrodome. Look for a high scoring game but in the end the Vikes won't be able to keep up with the potent Saints offense. Their will be an unreal party down in the bayou tonight, wish I could be there. New Orleans 42, Vikings 28.
This sets up a New Orleans vs. New York Jets Superbowl in Miami. I sure do hope I'm wrong about the Colts/Jets game. I bet everyone does. The world wants to see the two high scoring offenses face off on the biggest stage. I just worry that Ryan and the Jets didn't get the memo. Happy Championship Sunday everyone! Enjoy the games!
The final four for the 2009-10 season consists of: Indianapolis Colts, New Orleans Saints, Minnesota Vikings, and yes, indeed, the New York Jets. Four teams + two spots up for grabs = one helluva day of football! I am super-stoked to watch lots of football Sunday beginning at 3pm, ending somewhere around 10pm. First game: Colts vs. Jets. Best regular season quarterback Peyton Manning leads his team against the upstart underdogs that came out of nowhere. Led by a rookie QB how much of a chance do they really have? Actually, a pretty good one. I see this game going one of two ways. 1) Indy gets out to a quick 14-0 lead, the Jets go away from the gameplan of running the ball and Sanchez turns the ball over a couple times, 24-3 Colts at the half and thirty minutes later Manning is all smiles.... or.... 2) Tight game throughout the first 45 minutes. 4th quarter rolls around and the Jets get a monstrous turnover that leads to points and then one of the their beast running backs tacks on a TD for some breathing room, the defense holds and the Jets pull off one of the biggest upsets in NFL history. I don't know why but I have a bad feeling we'll be seeing Rex Ryan smiling ear to ear at his press conference after the game sayin, "I told you we would be in the Superbowl." I went 1-3 last week in my picks, let's hope I'm wrong on this one - Jets 24 Colts 20.
NFC Championship: Vikings at Saints. This game will be the first ever NFC Championship game hosted by New Orleans. The Saints are one of the few teams in the NFL that have never played in the Superbowl. Think about it for a minute. The rowdy crowd down in the bayou behind their fans like never before with such a huge prize on the line. Only one small problem. On the other side of the field stands a man who's been there before. At 40 years old, Brett Favre knows he doesn't have much time left. He understands he must make the most of his opportunities. That's what makes this game so crucial for him and the Minnesota Vikings. The up and down season of the Vikes all came together last week in a playoff game against Dallas. Minnesota held the the hated Cowboys to a measly 3 points and Favre threw 4 touchdown passes. The most impressive part of their game was their defense that harassed Tony Romo all day long, never allowing him to get comfortable. I don't see them doing this to Drew Brees. This game is on the road and I believe that will be the deciding factor for the Vikings as they struggled all season away from the Metrodome. Look for a high scoring game but in the end the Vikes won't be able to keep up with the potent Saints offense. Their will be an unreal party down in the bayou tonight, wish I could be there. New Orleans 42, Vikings 28.
This sets up a New Orleans vs. New York Jets Superbowl in Miami. I sure do hope I'm wrong about the Colts/Jets game. I bet everyone does. The world wants to see the two high scoring offenses face off on the biggest stage. I just worry that Ryan and the Jets didn't get the memo. Happy Championship Sunday everyone! Enjoy the games!
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