Nfl

The first NCAA college preview for our 10 team league will take a gander at Slick Willy's line up.  Ol' Slick Willy, a future Wisconsin Badger athletic booster, is the league's only 2 time champion.  Pretty crazy, since the league is going into it's 3rd season.  Willy hit a HR by drafting Tim Tebow, who led him to the promised land.. no, not the Garden of Eden, the championship the first 2 years.  Last year, Willy knew he had to reload and shipped Tebow for younger players and draft picks.  (Willy's God fearing fans took to him at a service in a foreign country.)  Coming off a 6-8 season, he'll be looking to right the ship and get back into title contention so he doesn't flame out early in his coaching career.

Continue reading "College Fantasy Preview -- Slick Willy"

Here we are at the second week of the NFL playoffs again, which brings up the same question every year.  Is it better for teams that have clinched first-round byes and playoff seeds to rest their players at the end of the regular season, or play them to keep on a roll going into the playoffs?  Lets look at both sides of the issue.

Continue reading "Rest vs Rust in the NFL"

Heisman runner-up Toby Gerhart will leave Stanford for the prospects of the upcoming NFL Draft.  He had one year of remaining eligibility due to an injury-shortened 2007.  Many Stanford fans had hoped he might return to play one last year with outstanding freshman quarterback Andrew Luck, possibly building on the success the team had this past season.  Although his decision might not be the most popular, it was the right one for him to make for several reasons.

Continue reading "Gerhart Decision for the NFL the Right One"

Hey Everyone,

The results of the American League Cy Young Award voting has been announced and the winner is Zack Greinke of the Kansas City Royals over Felix Hernandez of the Seattle Mariners.  Greinke posted a 2.16 ERA in 229.1 innings, striking out 242 batters and walking just 51 and won 16 games for the last place Royals.  If you are interested in the story and how the voting actually went, you can see the story here, http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=4663979

Continue reading "Royals Greinke wins AL Cy Young"

There is a first time for everything; people typically say this after something downright amazing happens.  I've also heard of this being used on pick up lines many times while dominating the drinking establishments in Madison, Wisconsin.  Typically; your Average Joe with a nobody name and even less game will launch it out there to a fine East Coast hunny.  "I don't leave the bars without my friends," or "I don't like guys that play World of Warcraft for 12 hours straight."  Person X that just got dissed/rejected gets a smirk and offers, "Well, there's a first time for everything."  Don't lie; you've used it yourself or know somebody that has.  This is one of those cases; something amazing happens.  I'm not getting rejected, but I am posting a rewind from the past week.. yes, ladies and gentlemen.  Much like when communist Russia fell.. The Buccaneers got an NFL win this season.. there is a 1st time for everything!

Continue reading "College Fantasy Football Rewind"

This is a joke.  The NFL just fined Chad Ochocinco $20,000 for a fake bribe that he offered a ref on a play review.  He did it openly and with $1; if you want to fine him okay.  I am cool with that, but $20,000?  Honestly? 

Continue reading "Really? Chad Ochocinco Fined?"

So, I don't know if you heard about this new emphasis that college football is placing during games.  It's apparently geared towards stopping hitting of "defenseless" players and head-hunting.  Well, apparently this rule is awful.  I mean, TERRIBLE.  In case you weren't watching the Georgia vs. Oklahoma State game this bad rule came into full effect.  Georgia S Rashard Jones delivered a picture perfect shoulder first hit into a receiver going for the ball, doing what Jones was taught to do.  NOT LET THE OPPONENT CATCH THE BALL.  Amazingly, every ref and 30,000 people in the stands threw their flags onto the field.  It looked like litter out there, absolute trash. 

Continue reading "Yuck! Oklahoma State Cowboys vs. ..."

6-3 posting right now on this forum, for those of you keeping track at home that is more wins than losses, and I am pretty darn happy with that.  I would like to thank centsports for taking care of business for me, and allowing me to enjoy the college football season even a little bit more than I normally would.  Looks like there are a few more games on Labor Day Monday.. Rutgers will battle Cincy and Miami Fl takes on the tomahawk chop, Florida State.  Not 100% sure on which way I am going to go with these games, I have a feeling I'll be pulling the trigger on the under in the Rutgers game.

Continue reading "Operation Centsports"

So, rumor has it online sports betting used to be really sweet; I heard pinnaclesports was an excellent, reputable site until the US cracked down on this alleged integrity issue.  An article I read points to a 1999 study that over $380 billion is illegally wagered on betting.  Now, I am not an advocate of; well, if society does it.. then it must be right.  Because usually, I think people are pretty stupid, especially society.  However, this seems harmless to me because the money can be used in so many ways.  Think of all the tax money and money, in general, the state and the US can collect, insane.  Anyway, it appears sports betting is only allowed in several states where it was legal before a certain law was passed.

Continue reading "Centsports Is Sweet"

ESPN has an unknown segment on nearly every edition of Sportscenter called "The Favre Watch," which chronicles the ins and outs of Brett Favre's possible return to the NFL.  In Wisconsin, the fans don't even need ESPN because whether they are out camping or on the golf course having a few beers the Favre story finds them.  Inevitably, it throws off their golf game as they miss an easy putt or break their wedge in the sand and somehow it's Favre's fault.  And you know what?  I am sick and tired of all of this "Brett is losing a fan here" talk because Brett Favre doesn't care if you're not his fan anymore.  His only mission right now is to come back and stick it to Ted Thompson.  The same Ted Thompson that ran him out of Green Bay, the same Ted Thompson that wanted to put his mark on the roster.. the same Ted Thompson that has shrewdly put together an impressive roster.. so darn impressive that Green Bay rattled off 6 wins last year.  (I know, Favre can't stop the run.. Favre can't stop the pass.. Favre's not giving up 30 points a game.. Favre once won 4 games in a season.. but they were coming off a 13 win season.)

Continue reading "Brett Favre and Away"

Once again as training camp approaches and teams start to get ready for the upcoming season most stories are the same with just the names being changed. Many first round picks have yet to sign with th

Continue reading "The Favre Saga"

I really love my animals well animals in general.  I understand what Vick did was wrong, with all that hes lost money wise, property wise, image wise and so on plus his prison time served id say

Continue reading "Let Vick Play!"

This is the year Quinn should be the starter. It's about time the Clevelad Browns start to invest their time into players and make the Browns a legit team. They are always putting players on pedistools them letting them go.

Continue reading "THE BRADY QUINN FACTOR"

                Maybe Terrel will finally figure out how special he is not!!! Yes he puts up good stats but the Cowboys actually had a shot there for a minut

Continue reading "Bye-Bye T.O.!!!"

    So let me get this straight. The Redskins sign Albert Haynesworth to an outrageous 100 million dollar deal. Then they go out and resign Free Agent DeAngelo Hall, and then release DE Jason Taylor. And why, because he didn't want to spend his off season sitting at the Redskins stadium. Why should he spend eight of his thirteen weeks off working? I don't know. But the Skins sure thought he should. The man has three kids and a wife in Florida. As a professional football player I'm sure he doesn't get a lot of time with his family any ways. I just would've thought Jason Taylor would be an asset to that team. He'll find a new home with out a problem though I'm sure.

Continue reading "What's up with the Redskins and Jay Cutler?"

The coronation of the Pittsburgh Steelers as Super Bowl champions marks the end of another football season… unfortunately.  But for those of us who eat, drink and sleep pigskin 365 days a year, football season is never really over.

Continue reading ""

You and your buddies have been planning your Super Bowl party for months.  Deep down inside, you know the party with its canned beer, half-eaten bag of stale chips and a couch that seats three will suck, but at least you’ll be around your boys for the most hallowed of all sports days.

Continue reading "How To Host A Successful Super Bowl Party"

The stage was officially set after Sunday's two Conference games for the 43rd Super Bowl. The Arizona Cardinals and the Pittsburgh Steelers both jumped over their last hurdles to go to the big dance. But don't ask either coach if they'll be satisfied with just making it. They want to win it! I'll bring you a in-depth 7 part preview of the big game as I'll give my prediction on the game on the 7th and final post. So let's get to it! This is the 'intro' post to the 7 part series.

Continue reading "Setting the Stage: Arizona Cardinals"

Pittsburgh's Mayor Luke Ravenstahl is reportedly in the process of legally changing his name to Luke Steelerstahl for the Pittsburgh Steelers AFC Championship game Sunday versus the Baltimore Ravens.

Continue reading "Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl ..."

We always here about things like this happening in another town in a different county or in a different state altogether; events that have no bearing to our lives whatsoever. We walk into another school while on a basketball trip and see a glass case perched on a wall close to the entrance which has an asortment of different items arranged around a picture set in the middle. The pictures differ from town to town, sometimes it may be just a normal school picture of a student with small heirlooms hanging around the image, other times it may be a student's athletic picture and his or her varsity letter nearby. There always seems to be a small passage included that can be read, describing the person's life and passions. In every case though, the glass case holds the same meaning, a memorandum of a life taken too early.

Continue reading "To an Athlete Dying Young"

When I was a sophomore in high school playing on the JV basketball team, we went into our Christmas break undefeated and feeling pretty good about ourselves. Over the break we were scheduled to play one game against a team from the division below us. We practiced a few times, nothing too serious, and went into the game feeling good. But the week and a half layoff killed us and we lost by four, our only loss of the season.

Continue reading "Picks for the NFL weekend"

From Week 12 to Week 15 the Houston Texans showed great poise and determination. They started a 4-game winning streak in Cleveland in a defensive battle. Not overly impressive, but a win is a win in the National Football League. The team then dominated a displaced looking Jacksonville Jaguars team at home in the first Monday Night game in franchise history.

Continue reading "Still Important"

Week 16 is off and rolling as the NFL season continues to wind down. Due to a busy schedule and some internet difficulties I was not able to bring you a Week 15 prediction post. But have no fear I'm back this week with a Week 16 post (yip yip hooray!) I went a miserable 1-3 in Week 14. With the season winding down, theirs several big games with playoff implications on the line. So without further a due....let's take a look at the games and predictions of the week.

Continue reading "NFL Week 16 Predictions"

A 1-point win never seemed so mammoth.

Yesterday the Houston Texans defeated the Tennessee Titans 13-12 in front of a jam-packed crowd at Reliant Stadium. With the win the Texans evened their season record at 7-7 and recorded their first 4 game winning streak in franchise history. Playoff chances have been done for weeks, but the Texans are still playing tough and like a team with a lot on the line.

Continue reading "Not This Time"

Another week is in the books in the National Football League as we head to Week 15. But first let's take a look back at the week that was...Week 14! (my tongue is getting twisted) Several surprising outcomes this past Sunday including a few of the games I picked. I went a disappointing 1-3 in my picks. Very poor performance on my part. I'm finally realizing I'll never have a grip on the NFL. It's the most inconsistent professional sport out there. Any team can lose on any given week. But enough sulking, let's get on to this week's Fallout Report!

Continue reading "NFL Week 14 Fallout"

Week 14 rolls along as Week 13 is officially history. I went 2-2 last week, picking again without any assistance from a Crystal Ball or a Crypt Keeper. Not a great performance by me, but I'm confident that my record will be better this week. So with that said, again without any assistance....let's kick things off with the Texans/Packers!

Continue reading "NFL Week 14 Predictions"

Week 13 is in the books as we are getting closer to the playoffs in the National Football League (still 4 weeks away, but with the way this season has flown bye, it won't be long!). Before I begin I want to apologize to my 3 readers for not keeping up with the Fallout Report. I'll have it on time (every Tuesday) from now until the playoffs. With that said, let's see how I did!

Continue reading "NFL Week 13 Fallout"

Happy Thanksgiving all. The NFL is already in its 13th week of the season (hard to believe isn't it?). I went 3-1 in Week 12 (without any assistance from the Crypt Keeper once again, mind you). Since I've had luck with out any help from a Crystal Ball or a Crypt Keeper, I'll go at my picks alone again this week and hope the wins keep on coming! So let's dig in!

Continue reading "NFL Week 13 Predictions"

 

           Last night, on Sunday Night Football, the Cowboys and Redskins met in a heated NFC East rivalry.  The ‘Boys came to Washington, sporting a 5-4 record, while the ‘Skins were 6-3.  The Cowboys welcomed back their offensive leader, Tony Romo, as well as Pro-Bowl corner, Terence Newman.  Dallas had already lost to the Redskins earlier this season, and this was a must-win game for the Cowboys. 

Continue reading "Back In The Saddle"

A week filled with late game nervousness and dominant performances. The Texans were the ones doing the prowling as they tore apart the Bengals. 'America's Team' didn't look so sharp, but they found a way to win. The NFL brought a real shootout to London (hopefully no one was hurt!) and Brett Favre didn't look good for the second consecutive week, but thankfully for the Jets, they played the Chiefs. I'll cover those games in this week's Fallout report!

Continue reading "NFL Week 8 Fallout"

It was a Sunday of last second heroics. 5 games were decided in the closing seconds. A few of them killed me in my pick-ems. I went 1-3 in my picks in my weekly dig here! Bah humbug as Ebenezer Scrooge would say. Despite my hideous pick skills again (grr!) it was a good Sunday of professional football. Instead of covering each game like I did last week here, I'll cover the games that were the more 'exciting on the weeks' slate'.

Continue reading "NFL Week 6 Fallout"

Week 5 is in the books. I went 2-2 last week (3-1 if the Texans would have hold on to the lead) but anyways...We put Week 5 in the history books and we open up a new chapter: Week 6! Just like last we

Continue reading "NFL Week 6 Predictions"

 

Once again, Adam don’t call me “Pac-man” Jones has made the headlines.  And when Mr. Jones makes the headlines, it usually isn’t good news!  Early Wednesday morning, Pac-man allegedly got into a “scuffle” with one of his security guards at a hotel in Dallas (read more here).  The police were called, but no charges were filed.  Is this much ado about nothing…or is Adam facing a possible suspension! 

Continue reading "Rush To Judgment"

          The crystal ball was two up and two down for the week.  Even though that is an improvement, it still doesn’t cut it!  Good thing this is for entertainment purposes only…or I would be in the poor house!  Let’s take a look back and see what happened: 

Continue reading "Week 5 Review"

It was an interesting week in the National Football League. A few surprises, a big meltdown by one team and one bruised and battered team found a way to win a big prime-time game. Let's get right to it--game by game.

Continue reading "NFL Week 5 Fallout"

 

           Yesterday, the Eagles lost another heartbreaker to a division foe, the Washington Redskins, 23-17.  The Eagles stand at 2-3 and in 4th (last) place in their division.  They have now lost two division (3 conference) games…and that does not bode well for play-off considerations.  Though it’s still early in the season…the sky may be falling! 

Continue reading "Bridges"

First off, I want to introduce myself. My name is Jake, I live in Houston. I'm glad I found this place. I've read a lot of bloggers material today from predictions to their favorite teams' rants, it's great. I enjoyed it. Sports, baby sports!

Continue reading "NFL Week 5 Predictions"

           Each week, on Friday, I will look into my (never wrong, just misinformed) crystal ball and give my predictions for that weekend games.  I will always prognosticate on the Eagles and Cowboys games and then pick two more games of interest (to me, that is, not necessarily to you).  Keep in mind, that this is for entertainment purposes only, and that I do not endorse any sort of legal or illegal gambling.  That being said…let’s see what’s in my crystal ball!

Continue reading "Predictions Week 5"

          

           Bill Belichick, Head Coach of the New England Patriots, was accused by Al Davis of “tampering” with Randy Moss prior to their trade a year ago.  The Raiders received a 4th round pick as compensation in the deal.  Davis alleges that the Patriots had a secret workout with Moss prior to the negotiations, which would violate NFL rules.  Bill (here’s a surprise) denies the accusation. 

Continue reading "...Then It's Probably A Duck!"

Much has been said and written about Terrell Eldorado Owens…so why should this week be any different?  It shouldn’t!  Mr. Owens had some comments that he made after the Cowboys lost to the Redskins.  He wants the ball more…gee, that’s a surprise?  He wants the offense to go through him…again, I was shocked?  He wants to be involved early and often…okay, now I am just down right astonished? 

Continue reading "Much Ado About Nothing"

           This week two head coaches were relieved of their duties…fired!  First, Scott Linehan of the St. Louis Rams, and now, Lane Kiffin of the Oakland Raiders, why?  Jim Haslet replaced Linehan.  What’s the difference, the Rams are horrific!  Kiffin is being replaced with O-line coach, Tom Cable…who?  Yeah, that’s right, I never heard of him either! 

Continue reading "Instant Gratification"

           Once again, my crystal ball failed me.  I don’t understand what happened…I shined it up last week.  I even purchased a stand for it…so now it sits on top of the mantel.  I’ve treated it with the utmost respect.  For who?  For what?  (Yes…that was a shot at Ricky Watters!)  Once again, I was one up and three down last week…not good…awful…embarrassing even!  I have to do something different for next week…maybe I will punish it…have it stand in the corner…or give it a time-out!  Something has to give…and I’m not backing down!  Let’s take a closer look and see what went wrong: 

Continue reading "Week 4 Review"

           The other day, Rashard Mendenhall (Rookie RB for the Pittsburgh Steelers) sent his buddy, Ray Rice (Rookie RB for the Baltimore Ravens) a text message.  So why is that football news?  Because LB Bart Scott of the Ravens made it so!  Mendenhall’s text was only intended for his buddy Ray.  It claimed how great of a day Rashard was going to have against the vaunted Raven’s Defense.  Ray Rice took it upon himself to let his defense know about the text message…Bart Scoot took offense.

Continue reading "Bulletin Board Material"

           Each week, on Friday, I will look into my (never wrong, just misinformed) crystal ball and give my predictions for that weekend games.  I will always prognosticate on the Eagles and Cowboys games and then pick two more games of interest (to me, that is, not necessarily to you).  Keep in mind, that this is for entertainment purposes only, and that I do not endorse any sort of legal or illegal gambling.  That being said…let’s see what’s in my crystal ball!           

Continue reading "Predictions Week 4"

           On Saturday night, I relearned a lesson I already knew.  Often times, we need to be reminded of lessons we learned as a child.  When we were children, things were simpler.  We didn’t judge, we just played with everyone…all the other children were our friends.  We learned to judge, as we grew older.  Our teachers always taught us right from wrong…but did we listen? 

Continue reading "Don't Judge A Book By Its Cover"

             Just the other day my cousin Domenic (Cuz) called me.  He wanted to let me know that our cousin from Italy was coming for a visit in October, and to call me a cockroach.  The term cockroach was coined, or at least he uses it the most, by Howard Eskin of WIP (local sports radio).  Eskin uses the term to refer to Cowboys fans, mostly who live in the Philly area.  This got me to thinking (dangerous, isn’t it?)…In today’s politically correct society, and the diverse society we live in, I, a cockroach, was offended.  At my wife’s school (she is a school teacher), they promote diversity with a huge campaign.  In a nutshell, it’s to let everyone know that we are different and that we should understand and respect others points of view.   

Continue reading "Cockroaches"

           Today I am taking my lumps, and licking my wounds.  I was 1-3 on my predictions for Week 3.  Though I take great pride in my prognosticating skills, I must blame the crystal ball for this one.  Granted, I should have known better, because I purchased it at Dollar Tree…what do you expect for a dollar?  Maybe I will “Windex” it before this week’s prediction, so it isn’t so cloudy and hazy.  Lets take a closer look at what happened: 

Continue reading "Week 3 Review"

     Each week, on Friday, I will look into my (never wrong, just misinformed) crystal ball and give my predictions for that weekend games.  I will always prognosticate on the Eagles and Cowboys games and then pick two more games of interest (to me, that is, not necessarily to you).  Keep in mind, that this is for entertainment purposes only, and that I do not endorse any sort of legal or illegal gambling.  That being said…let’s see what’s in my crystal ball! 

Continue reading "Predictios Week 3: Round-Up"

           The NFL, in my opinion, is the best sport in the world.  It is a violent game played by phenomenal athletes, who by the way, get paid handsomely for it.  Every year the NFL Competition Committee comes up with new rules to “improve” the game.  For instance, this year, they got rid of the 5-yard facemask penalty.  Now it’s either a 15-yard personal foul, or incidental contact and no penalty…what genius came up with that one? 

Continue reading "The No Fun League"

Today is a seasonable mild day in beautiful Gilbertsville, PA.  There are leaves falling and a calm breeze.  As I sit on my patio, I hear the birds chirping, and the wind howl occasionally.  It is almost an eerie feeling.  The kids are in school and the streets and backyards are empty.  So, I thought to myself, timing is everything.  A few weeks ago, at this time, kids were running in their yards, playing on their swing sets, and horse playing as youngsters do.  Today, nothing! 

Continue reading "Timing Is Everything"

           Last night I saw one of the best games ever.  If for some ungodly reason you didn’t see it…shame on you!  The Dallas Cowboys outlasted the Philadelphia Eagles 41-37.  This game had everything imaginable.  The offenses were unstoppable, yet the defenses made plays when needed.  This game defined the season for both teams.  The Cowboys thought they were good, now they know that they are, and it could turn out to be a magical season.  The Eagles, they weren’t too sure where they stood.  They have a young core of receivers (some nursing injuries) and a beefed up offensive line, and a maligned quarterback just a year removed from a major injury.  Now, they know they can hang with the Cowboys and have a legitimate shot this year. 

Continue reading "A Game For The Ages: An Instant Classic"

Welcome to my latest blog. This blog is dedicated solely to the New England Patriots. The 2008 season will be kicking off in about a week. How can they top last season? Is it realistic to expect them to go 16-0 again? Surely they won't but that doesn't mean the season won't be exciting.

Continue reading "Welcome to Patriot Games"

 

Pau Gasol is seven feet tall but he just got taller in my eyes.

Gasol and his teammates on Spain's Olympic team was put in an embarassing position this week of having to explain why they agreed to pose for an advertisement that reflected a racist tone.

Continue reading "GASOL GETS THE BIG PICTURE"

The Steelers now need a backup plan.

Second-string quarterback Charlie Batch is lost for 4-6 weeks after suffering a broken right collarbone, his throwing arm, in the Steelers' first preseason game. The 33-year-old Batch injured his shoulder trying to scramble on a broken play. Another reason why preseason games are a waste of time.

Continue reading "BAD BREAK FOR STEELERS"

We have been patient the entire summer and September means we are finally rewarded with football… glorious football.  This season brings new hope for thirty-two NFL teams and while San Diego, New England, Indianapolis and Dallas are overwhelming favorites to win a championship, the Giants proved last year that the Super Bowl winner can be anyone’s guess. 

Continue reading "A 2008 NFL Preview (in 750 words or less)"

I was spending time at my special lady friend’s house not all that long ago.  She had family and friends in town visiting from Columbus, Ohio (yes, Gator dates Buckeye… riots ensue).  While watching television, one of her younger houseguests was having difficulty recalling the name of “that heavyset guy” that used to be on Saturday Night Live way back in the day.  She was in her early 20s, so I figured she couldn’t possibly be talking about John Belushi, although he was the first person that came to mind.  I blurted out the other obvious answer, Chris Farley, to which she responded ‘Oh Yeah!’

Continue reading "Brett Farve, Chris Farley And A Longing ..."

Well the ongoing soap opera involving the sports world's biggest self indulgent drama queen has just gotten more convoluded and sickening. I think it was two months ago that I heard Brett "win or lose its still all about me" Favre was backtracking on his blubbering, rambling retirement speech and he now wanted to play again. Then I heard that the Packers said they were moving on,,,without him, so he would have to play else where if he wanted to play again. Then the speculation began. Where would he end up? What would be the best fit? ESPN.com even broke down each team based on its needs and what Favre could bring to the team. My Vikings were near the top. I gagged quite a bit at the notion.

Continue reading "Brett Favre In Purple??"

Invariably, if you attend any Buccaneers home game, you’ll encounter pewter-clad fans donning jerseys of their favorite, hometown heroes, just as you would in any NFL stadium on any given Sunday around the county.  In Tampa, without question, the most common jersey you’ll run into is that of Mike Alstott, who for some reason appears to have become a sort of cult hero in the Bay Area.  In fact, at a game I attended earlier this season, the Bucs had the ball first-and-goal, about to score, and an ornery fan behind me shouted out “PUT IN ALSTOTT!!!”  Never mind that Alstott sat out the entire 2007 season with a neck injury.  Maybe he hadn’t gotten that memo.  The “Put In Alstott” line at Raymond James has become akin to someone requesting that a band play “Free Bird” at your local dive bar.

Continue reading "The Fascination with Mike Alstott"

Jeff Christensen believes the quarterback position is broken. 

And he’s just the guy to fix it. 

“Kids today,” says the founder of Throw It Deep Passing Academy, “and when I say kids I mean 19, 20, 21 years old. They think because they throw a pretty spiral they’ve done something. It’s mind-boggling.” 

Continue reading "THINK FIRST, THEN THROW IT DEEP"

Why is that whenever someone retires or is having a great career, the first question we all ask is, “where does he rank among the all-time greats?”  Why must we always be looking at the historic side of things?  LeBron is not the next Michael Jordan and we don’t know if he will be a better all-time player so why worry about it.  Can’t we just enjoy LeBron for what he is?  Alex Rodriguez is on pace to break every major home run record but I don’t understand why we always have to look at the big picture.  From now on I am going to watch A-Rod for today and that’s all.  When he hits a homer I am not going to wonder if that was 530 or 531 for his career, I will only care about it how many he has hit that season and if it helped the Yankees win.  That is why I will not worry where Brett Favre ranks among the best quarterbacks in NFL history.  No, I will just remember the career of Brett because whether you think he is better than John Elway or not you must admit, he was special.

Continue reading "Remembering Greatness"

The Seahawks need a seam-splitting, pass-catching TE so Matt Hasselbeck can truly take advantage of the full range of mismatches the west coast system offers. After the Jerramy Stevens my-arms-are-too-long-to-catch-footballs-and-I-am-a-headcase bust, and the Marcus Pollard I-have-low-miles-but-they-left-me-in-the-garage-for-a-reason failure, their options are free agency, the draft, or... bust.

Continue reading "Crumpler not the answer for Seahawks, ..."

Many fans of the NFL have been a bit superstitious over the years with players and curses. There’s the Sports Illustrated Curse, the Chunky Soup Curse, and the Madden Curse to name a few. Now that the New York Giants QB Eli Manning has been named the cover boy for John Madden’s football video game, Madden NFL 09, the Internet is abuzz with speculation about whether he will be the next victim.

Continue reading "Is Eli Manning Cursed?"

Ohmigosh! They did it! All that skepticism and doubt – poof! The New York Giants have won Super Bowl XLII!  Congratulations G-Men! Here’s the 5 keys to the game that I think did it for you:

Continue reading "5 Reasons the New York Giants Won Super Bowl XLII"

I have never claimed to be an expert when it comes to predicting outcomes of football games, although last year I nearly predicted the exact final score of the Super Bowl while hitting on seven of my nine prop bets. (My prediction was 26-17, the final was 29-17.) For whatever reason I had a very good feel for that game. This year's Super Bowl, however, remains a mystery to me. Part of the reason I am having trouble getting a good feel for this game is that I am a bitter Jets fan and I can't stand either team. I'm finding it difficult to put my personal feelings aside and look at the game objectively. I think right now I am as close to objectivity as I am going to get, and with that being said, here is my official Super Bowl XLII prediction.

Continue reading "Super Bowl XLII Prediction"

This is something that I really am a lost for words. Every year the NFL stages a Pro Bowl where players are voted for and chosen to play in this annual event in Hawaii. Maybe it's because it's Hawaii is the reason the NFL continues to stage this ultimate boring game. They changed the rules so no one can get hurt, but they do. Many players seem to pass on it a couple of weeks before the time of the game. IT just seems like a waste of time anymore.

Continue reading "Why Do We Have A NFL Pro Bowl?"

Call me a traitor to women everywhere, but I don’t want chocolates, flowers, or lingerie. Please don’t expect me to get excited about dinner and a movie. Don’t be surprised when I scoff at the notion of taking a limousine ride to some “romantic location”. Seriously, I won’t even get mad if you completely forget that it is Valentine’s Day. Chances are, I’ll forget myself until the day is almost over and I look at the date.

Continue reading "5 Things I Want for Valentine’s Day"

You New England Patriots players are a laugh riot! Imagine, Donté Stallworth or Wes Welker taking over as quarterback from Tom Brady. Actually, it was rather amusing. Each of these players calmly answered the speculation of their MVP’s health by saying Bill Belichick had asked them to take over the helm. Each never flinched, as if to say how absurd the speculation is. I agree, Tom Brady is likely just fine and will play remarkably in Glendale, Az on February 3. In case you haven’t noticed, QBs often play when hurt – case in point Philip Rivers. Don’t forget that the offensive line gives Brady all day to throw the ball, so even if his leg hurts a bit he’ll likely play up to par.

Continue reading "Hardy Har Har – How to Laugh at the Super Bowl"

Yeah, you heard me – the Los Angeles Raiders. This is the team that still lives in my mind. The only team to bring my hometown a Super Bowl win. Sure, I follow other clubs in the NFL now. It is hard not to when yours has deserted you! At any rate, I drive around town in my black car with the black Raiders license plate frames in honor of days long passed…

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I was not a believer in Eli Manning until the last few games I watched him play. I seriously had the New York Giants written off as Super Bowl contenders. Also, I assumed that Eli would never actually come into his own and learn how to be effective in the NFL. Written off as nepotism, I was one of those naysayers that figured he would be a back-up QB sooner rather than later.

Continue reading "I stand corrected!"

As we near the last – sniff – weekend of the NFL season to decide who is going to the Super Bowl, I realize that empty feeling is coming back. You dedicated fans know what I am talking about! It’s that feeling you get when your beloved jersey gets ripped, your lucky hat disappears, or the store is out of your favorite beer. Yep – that vacant, lonely feeling that begins to creep in this same time every year. Sure, we savor this last weekend and then spend two weeks planning for the big day. Afterward, we are numb and feign interest in the Pro Bowl, just kidding ourselves that it is an actual game.

Continue reading "It’s almost over!!!!"

At this point in the NFL season, many fans need encouragement to continue since their favorite team has been knocked out of the playoffs. As you sit there in your Peyton Manning or Tony Romo jersey, why not lighten up your day and play a little drinking game when you watch the rest of the season unfold?

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Besides being an exceptional athlete, Indianapolis Colts QB Peyton Manning is totally in on the fact that he can play a very believable dork. He may come across as a simple, laid-back country boy - but this guy is as smart as they come when it means marketing himself. Did you see him host Saturday Night Live? His United Way spoof was absolutely hysterical! Again, I am not an Indianapolis Colts fan by any stretch of the imagination. I just can’t help finding Peyton to be a truly side-splitting character!

Continue reading "The 5 Best Peyton Manning Commercials"

I knew they could do it! They had their number earlier in the year and they did it again today! The San Diego Chargers upset the Indianapolis Colts in a 28-24 victory that came down to the wire at the RCA Dome. Shawne Merriman and Antonio Cromartie were key in the defense against Peyton Manning, both making big plays when it really counted. I was truly worried when LaDainian Tomlinson went out of the game and even more pessimistic when Philip Rivers had to be sidelined – but the rest of the team made me a believer! I take back every less than flattering statement I have ever uttered about Norv Turner!  He really is an NFL coach that deserves respect.  

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Although they just barely missed the Cleveland Browns should definitely be proud of their 2007 NFL season.

They had Derek Anderson prove that he can be a top ten quarterback. Something great to know when you have first round pick Brady Quinn waiting in the wings. His breakout coincided with the play of Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow. While the latter was already a known commodity, Braylon really needed to show that he deserved the status that comes with being the number three overall draft pick a few years back.

Continue reading "Browns have nothing to be ashamed of"

When Bill Parcells was hired as the guy to turn around the Miami Dolphins you knew quickly action would follow. First his statement of no thugs on this team will be something he stresses more than ever. He believes you do things a certain way and if your not going to pack your bags because I don't need you.  In his short tenure he got rid of the General Manager and just recently fired the coach after a 1-15 season. Now I can understand both firings, but in Cam Cameron's defense he inherited this group of players, so he can't be totally to blame for the situation he was put in.  What was interesting was the Dolphins signing Ricky Williams to a contract recently.

Continue reading "Bill Parcells Cleaning House In Dolphin World"

While attending college at the University of Tampa, I noticed the awesome fact that the area is rich in professional sports! The Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are relatively close to each other and easily accessible. The closest NBA was the Orlando Magic, but I got to catch a pre-season game at the Ice Palace one year. I felt really spoiled since I grew up in a place where everything was much more spread out and harder to get tickets for. To make things even better – there was plenty of golf and tennis around. I only wish the USF Bulls were as good as they are now when I was there. I didn’t complain though, I was able to go to the games free since my school didn’t have football. (They did at one time; John Matuszak is a U Tampa alum!)

Continue reading "Something's wrong with Tropicana Field?"

As I was watching the Tampa Bay Buccaneers host the Carolina Panthers today I saw a ray of hope. Actually, I saw several – the young defense and Luke McCown. Yeah, I know, they stunk up the place at the end of the game but at least they gave it a real try. You have to remember that many, if not all starters were out at that point. Plus I wonder if Monte Kiffin stops paying attention by the 4th but that’s a different story…

Continue reading "Shining Stars"

Where has the season gone? Have I really been working that much? Yeah, I must have been since I didn’t realize I witnessed Bryant Young’s last home game with the San Francisco 49ers until it was almost over. I hate when I don’t get to pay attention to football!

Continue reading "The playoffs are almost here!"

I was working on the computer when I heard the sound. It was that unmistakable sound that a football game was about to start. That wonderful feeling of excitement flushed over me and I mused that I am much like a subject in Pavlov’s experiments. Play that music and I salivate.

Continue reading "Random NFL Rumblings…"

It was an ugly win, but important nevertheless. Not only did it get the Browns closer to the NFL postseason, but also it showed that they are learning how to win the tough games.

You’d think that a team from Buffalo would be ready for a snow-filled game, but the Bills didn’t seem like it at all. They were essentially embarrassing to watch, almost as bad were the Bills fans that came to the sports bar wearing Buffalo Sabres jerseys…really. But more importantly, the Browns came away with the win in turbulent weather. And if the increasingly realistic Browns playoffs hopes come to fruition, they will need to be ready to play in adverse conditions like they did today.

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers!

Well, today it finally happened! The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have finally returned a kickoff for a touchdown! Woohoo! From a new face nonetheless! I looked outside and there are no donkeys flying but it has been a bit cold…

Continue reading "A streak-breaking day for Florida NFL teams!"

Some girls have guilty pleasures like chocolate or shoe shopping – well, I somehow missed the chocolate gene (hate it!) and I openly admit my shoe addiction without remorse. So, pray tell, what is my guilty pleasure? The Bucs! Ohmigosh! I loooove the Tampa Bay Buccaneers! Why do I feel guilty? Well, being a Los Angeles native that comes from a pedigree of Raiders-Rams-Niners, I always feel I need to explain myself when I root for them. I get that feeling like I was caught listening to Michael Bolton or something (not that I would do that but you get my drift).

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