Time to head down south for the look into what has turned into a couple of divisions with a few surprise teams making early season runs. First and for most, the Titans are shocking the world as they remain unbeaten and in the NFC, 3 teams over 500, it could be close.
AFC SOUTH
Titans 8-0
This is obviously the most talked about team in football right now. When any team starts their season 8-0, it is something to talk about. When I look at this team, I just continue to wonder how they win football games. They do not have a QB that is worth anything in Kerry Collins. Their running game is not bad. It really is all their defense that is keeping them in games. But the thing is that they still score points and win games. I have been really impressed by this team but it is only a matter of time before they fall. And when they do, it is going to be hard.
Colts 4-4
Talk about disappointment. There really is no bigger one than this in my eyes. With an arsenal like this one, I do not understand how this team is only 4-4. They are in second place in the division but they have just not been playing good football. Addai will help if he stays healthy. Manning is starting to connect but really we have not seen the Colts of norm. They will make more of a come back in the next 8 weeks. A playoff spot is in question but it remains simply a possibility, not a guarantee.
Texans 3-5
At the beginning of the season, I predicted this team to improve to the point where they are making a playoff run. That I cannot see happening anymore. Maybe next year. This team just cannot find any kind of groove. They are lacking in all aspects of the game. They don't have a go to QB who can stay healthy or they can rely on to win ball games. Texans will struggle for the remainder of the season.
Jaguars 3-5
Complete abomination. They were predicted to be making a Super Bowl run this year. I could not believe those talks and I had said I saw the Texans taking their playoff spot. That will not happen either but it is for certain that the Jags most likely won't be in the playoffs either. The Jags have not put their talent together to be successful. We saw Garrard struggle early and now he has begun to settle down. I do not think he is where he wants to be and this team will win a few more games but not enough to make a run.
How they will finish...
Titans 13-3
Colts 9-7
Texans 8-8
Jaguars 7-9
NFC SOUTH
Panthers 6-2
I have certainly been caught off guard by this team. A 6-2 start is a huge feat for this struggling team. Smith missed the first two games of the year due to suspension and really, they have the tools to win and they have utilized. I like their chances in this division but it is a tough one to win out. At least this year.
Buccs 6-3
Huge surprise here as well. The Buccs have really proven that they know how to win games as well. Garcia will win you games but will not put up huge numbers. He finds ways to win but does not make t incredibly pretty. Dunn has been running the ball good enough to help enough to win as well. They have a defense that could tackle its way into the playoffs.
Falcons 5-3
Hey, Mike Vick. Matt Ryan is in town and making that QB role his own. He has done everything to impress me and the entire league. Taking a team that looked to be on the verge of the worst season in years, turns things around and turns this team into a contender. I do not like their road numbers nor their 0-2 record in divisional games. But if you are playing them at home, look out. This team can do some damage.
Saints 4-4
You can't count them out yet. I beleive they are right where they want to be to really make a comeback in this division. Dree Brees is probably the 1st half MVP at the QB position and Reggie Bush has been impressing by the numbers as well. They have not done enough yet to win games but they are just a little tweek away from a huge run.
How they will finish...
Panthers 10-6
Saints 10-6
Buccs 9-7
Falcons 9-7
Hopefully I can get the West done by tomorrow!!!
Friday, November 7, 2008
Thursday, November 6, 2008
NFC North Time: Where they will finish--
I really can see this division being a lot closer than it is at this point. There are 3 teams that I could honestly see winning the North in the NFC. Peterson has been a little quieter than his last year first half. And we saw Rex Grossman step up and win a football game in week 9. Surprises all over. Another surprise, oh wait no. The Lions 0-8 is not a surprise. But them signing Daute Culpepper you could say is slightly surprising.
NFC NORTH:
Bears: 5-3
This team really let a lot of people down last year after their Super Bowl run 2 years ago. Rex is now under center in substitution of Kyle Orton. I kind of had to see his fall coming. As everyone should have. His success was a nice and for Chicago fans gave hope but it did not last. Rex did look good last week and who knows, maybe he will be back in Super Bowl form. I don't see it. This team will finish well and has a good shot at the division.
Packers: 4-4
I like one thing about this team. And that is not seeing #4 running ramped every they score a touchdown. Post-Favre era and Aaron Rodgers has not disappointed me. He could possibly throw for 4000 yards this season. He has a great TD/INT ratio. His numbers do not lie. They have played well in their division thus far with a 2-0 record. The Packers have not had a bad first half and with the changes made this year, if they miss the playoffs, I do not think that is a huge disappointment. We have seen a lot of good things out of this team and will see more in the next 8 games.
Vikings: 4-4
The Vikings have had a better start than I had expected them to. Adrian Peterson is one of a kind but that cannot win games alone. I like the way they use his talent and then try, and i mean try, to use the pass but they have no QB. The defense has been a complete abomination. They came in predicted to be one of the best in the game and completely forgot how to pass cover. Their run defense is not bad, 2nd in football with rush yards against but when they have to play a team that can throw, like the Packers, they are toast.
(Cowardly) Lions: 0-8
I am not going to bore you with a whole paragraph about a team that could possibly go 0-16 this year. Duante Culpepper will not solve the problems. Because there are too many to fix. I'll give them 1 win but they should consider themselves grateful for that.
How they will finish:
Packers 10-6
Bears 9-7
Vikings 9-7
Lions 1-15
Coming soon, AFC/NFC South
NFC NORTH:
Bears: 5-3
This team really let a lot of people down last year after their Super Bowl run 2 years ago. Rex is now under center in substitution of Kyle Orton. I kind of had to see his fall coming. As everyone should have. His success was a nice and for Chicago fans gave hope but it did not last. Rex did look good last week and who knows, maybe he will be back in Super Bowl form. I don't see it. This team will finish well and has a good shot at the division.
Packers: 4-4
I like one thing about this team. And that is not seeing #4 running ramped every they score a touchdown. Post-Favre era and Aaron Rodgers has not disappointed me. He could possibly throw for 4000 yards this season. He has a great TD/INT ratio. His numbers do not lie. They have played well in their division thus far with a 2-0 record. The Packers have not had a bad first half and with the changes made this year, if they miss the playoffs, I do not think that is a huge disappointment. We have seen a lot of good things out of this team and will see more in the next 8 games.
Vikings: 4-4
The Vikings have had a better start than I had expected them to. Adrian Peterson is one of a kind but that cannot win games alone. I like the way they use his talent and then try, and i mean try, to use the pass but they have no QB. The defense has been a complete abomination. They came in predicted to be one of the best in the game and completely forgot how to pass cover. Their run defense is not bad, 2nd in football with rush yards against but when they have to play a team that can throw, like the Packers, they are toast.
(Cowardly) Lions: 0-8
I am not going to bore you with a whole paragraph about a team that could possibly go 0-16 this year. Duante Culpepper will not solve the problems. Because there are too many to fix. I'll give them 1 win but they should consider themselves grateful for that.
How they will finish:
Packers 10-6
Bears 9-7
Vikings 9-7
Lions 1-15
Coming soon, AFC/NFC South
Midseason Overview: Where they will finish--AFC North
Well now that we got the Eastern divisions out of the way, things start to slow down a bit. The North is not quite as interesting and intense of a division but there have been some surprises and also some let downs. Neither north division is a runaway, yet...but we could see a couple of teams pull away. And some, just completely disappear. Lets break it down:
AFC NORTH
Steelers: 6-2
Hands down the best team defense in the game right now. Tennessee was looking pretty sharp out of the gate but it has been all Pittsburgh the last 3-4 weeks. Big Ben has been battling injures left and right and that offensive line does not look the same as in the past few years. He has taken some big hits and that is probably the one thing I can see them needing to improve on, blocking. Willie Parker looked like he was going to rush for the league high this season after game 1. He is back and that is key if the
Steelers want to proceed and possibly win the division.
Ravens: 5-3
There seems to be a pattern here I guess in the north of the AFC. Defense is the way these teams win football games. Ray Lewis has proven to be a dominant player and has also proven himself to be able to build up a team and be successful. At least when they don't have the ball. Joe Flacco is not going to win you a Super Bowl and neither is Willis McGahee. I have enjoyed watching this team surprise a lot of teams in the early going but I just can't see them making a season out of this I guess you can call it "lack of talent" on the offensive side of the ball.
Browns: 3-5
Now we are starting to fall further down the mountain. This team has disappointed a lot of eyes in these first 8 games. Derek Anderson and Braylon Edwards have really been under-performing. I expected a lot more out of especially Anderson. Jamal Lewis is doing his average. He is the numbers one back on this depth chart but he only averages 3.6 yards a carry. Not solid numbers. The Dog Pound is not going to be pleased come December. If Anderson can dig himself out of this hole he put himself in, they might hit 500.
Bengals: 1-8
Both the AFC and the NFC need to have a floor mat. And it looks like both fall in the North Division. The Bengals are completely dysfunctional. No Carson Palmer is a death sentence.
Ocho Cinco has not put his money where his mouth is. They did beat Jacksonville last week. That could be a spark of life. A bye week upcoming and then on to Pennsylvania to play Philly and Pitt back-to-back weeks. Good Luck with that. The Bengals have no shot at making a season out of this complete and total chaotic mess. I see them maybe beating Baltimore or Kansas City in week 17. I cannot give them much more than that.
How I see them finishing...
Steelers 12-4
Ravens 9-7
Browns 6-10
Bengals 3-13
Back later with NFC North Breakdown...
AFC NORTH
Steelers: 6-2
Hands down the best team defense in the game right now. Tennessee was looking pretty sharp out of the gate but it has been all Pittsburgh the last 3-4 weeks. Big Ben has been battling injures left and right and that offensive line does not look the same as in the past few years. He has taken some big hits and that is probably the one thing I can see them needing to improve on, blocking. Willie Parker looked like he was going to rush for the league high this season after game 1. He is back and that is key if the
Steelers want to proceed and possibly win the division.Ravens: 5-3
There seems to be a pattern here I guess in the north of the AFC. Defense is the way these teams win football games. Ray Lewis has proven to be a dominant player and has also proven himself to be able to build up a team and be successful. At least when they don't have the ball. Joe Flacco is not going to win you a Super Bowl and neither is Willis McGahee. I have enjoyed watching this team surprise a lot of teams in the early going but I just can't see them making a season out of this I guess you can call it "lack of talent" on the offensive side of the ball.
Browns: 3-5
Now we are starting to fall further down the mountain. This team has disappointed a lot of eyes in these first 8 games. Derek Anderson and Braylon Edwards have really been under-performing. I expected a lot more out of especially Anderson. Jamal Lewis is doing his average. He is the numbers one back on this depth chart but he only averages 3.6 yards a carry. Not solid numbers. The Dog Pound is not going to be pleased come December. If Anderson can dig himself out of this hole he put himself in, they might hit 500.
Bengals: 1-8
Both the AFC and the NFC need to have a floor mat. And it looks like both fall in the North Division. The Bengals are completely dysfunctional. No Carson Palmer is a death sentence.
Ocho Cinco has not put his money where his mouth is. They did beat Jacksonville last week. That could be a spark of life. A bye week upcoming and then on to Pennsylvania to play Philly and Pitt back-to-back weeks. Good Luck with that. The Bengals have no shot at making a season out of this complete and total chaotic mess. I see them maybe beating Baltimore or Kansas City in week 17. I cannot give them much more than that.How I see them finishing...
Steelers 12-4
Ravens 9-7
Browns 6-10
Bengals 3-13
Back later with NFC North Breakdown...
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Midseason Overview: Where they will finish-- AFC/NFC East
AFC EAST:
Lets start our way on the Atlantic seaboard and then work our way across the country. I certain picked the two divisions in football that have the most contenders for sure. It is hard to believe that we are talking about the AFC East being close.
Patriots:
5-3
The Patriots have been the solid rock in that division for almost a decade, 2000 being the last time they missed the playoffs finishing at a disappointing 5-11 and landing in last place. Not a usual scenario for the guys in Gillette in recent years. But losing your QB and also league MVP from 2007 is a huge blow. This team is one built around stars. And now they are faced with trying to replace those stars with guys who haven't played since high school. But I think the Patriots will turn things around in the second half of the season. They are currently tied with the Bills and Jets on top all posting 5-3 records. The Patriots have the tools to make a season out of this disaster. Matt Cassell will have to step up as this team also is lacking in the running attack. Patriots are arguably the "winning'est" team in the 21st century. They won't end that this year.
Bills: 5-3
This is a team that had a great start to their season but frankly, I do not see it continuing. They have yet to win a division game, losing to both the Dolphins and the Jets. There is still a lot of season left and things could turn around. They have to play the Pats this coming week and also they end their season with New England. They have to play the Dolphins and the Jets one more time each and at this point, if they do not begin to play better in their division, I cannot see them going anywhere. Trent Edwards needs to stay healthy and that I do not think is possible. Bills will come close again but miss the playoffs.
Jets: 5-3
This team has been turning things around. They have won their last two contests beating Buffalo
and Kansas City. KC is a game they obviously should have won and they did. This team has veteran leadership and I like their chances. They get a second chance at NE in week 11 after they should roll over St. Louis. As this team has moved on through the 1st half, I have seen improvements. Brett Favre is getting more adapted to the offense and his receivers like him throwing them the ball. One key for them is to continue to play solid defense. Their offense is going to score points and it is a matter on who scores more. Most of the jets games this year will be shootouts and with that, defense. I give them a wild cars spot.
Dolphins: 4-4
This team is funny. It looks like they have a team that could compete for a Super Bowl title. But if you w
atch the way they play the game, you may change your mind. The Dolphins scrounge wins out of pretty talented opponents. Two weeks in a row beating up on New England and San Diego, really made critics take a step back and see if this team is for real. They very well could be. I don't see it in the near future. Trickery and creativity only get you so far. Experience and clutch performing skills are what this team lacks. Can't see them winning the big game.
How I see them finishing...
Patriots 11-5
Jets 11-5
Bills 9-7
Dolphins 8-8
NFC (B)EAST:
This has to be top 5 toughest division is professional sports. Between the 4 teams, we could see over 40 wins. It would not surprise me in the least. These teams all play each other tough and it is always hard to predict a winner when it comes to these 4 teams. The last few years we have seen these teams take it right up to the finish and it could take until week 17 to determine a winner of the NFC East.
Giants: 7-1
You really have to consider this team the favorite at the half. They are reining Super bowl Champs and they are certainly starting right where they left off. Eli Manning may not be the ideal quarterback for your fantasy team but he has proven that he knows how to run an offense and a team. He flat out wins games. If you had said that a year ago, you would have been laughed at. But he took his team to the big show last year and now they start out 7-1. The Giants are the team to beat in the second half. It would surprise me if they do not win the division.
Eagles: 5-3
This is a team that will turn into a playoff threat. Donovan McNabb can never be underestimated. The Eagles finished a dismal 8-8 in 2007 but that is going to change here in 2008. Despite their lack to perform in divisional games, 0-2 currently, they will begin to turn the boosters on. Andy Reid will groom this team in the next 8 games and they have really put themselves in a position to do some damage. They are on a 3 game winning streak and next week the two teams in the NFC East with a 3 game streak will go head to head, Giants Eagles.
Redskins:
6-3
It is party time in the nations capital. Yea yea the presidential election is a reason to party but can you believe that the Skins are 6-3? It is for real. With the Cowboys falling off the face off the Earth, the redskins look like they could possibly trump the team from Dallas and take a playoff spot. This team holds the leagues leading rusher who really looks like he is a freight train rolling down a hill. Look out for the skins come December.
Cowboys: 5-4
What a story to talk about here. The only thing that I can say that i have liked out of this team is that TO realized that he does not need to shoot his mouth off when the team starts to lose. I was pleased about that. Maybe he should give some advice to Ocho
Cinco. You can't ever count the Cowboys out and with Tony Romo scheduled to come back after this bye week, this could be a whole different team. They have been battling injuries but are only at 5-4. That is not a bad record after playing your last 3 games without your stud QB. Marion the Barbarian will finish strong as well I think the only question left is who is the teams Holder?
How I see them finishing...
Giants 13-3
Eagles 11-5
Cowboys 10-6
Redskins 10-6
Coming soon, NFC/AFC North!
Lets start our way on the Atlantic seaboard and then work our way across the country. I certain picked the two divisions in football that have the most contenders for sure. It is hard to believe that we are talking about the AFC East being close.
Patriots:
5-3The Patriots have been the solid rock in that division for almost a decade, 2000 being the last time they missed the playoffs finishing at a disappointing 5-11 and landing in last place. Not a usual scenario for the guys in Gillette in recent years. But losing your QB and also league MVP from 2007 is a huge blow. This team is one built around stars. And now they are faced with trying to replace those stars with guys who haven't played since high school. But I think the Patriots will turn things around in the second half of the season. They are currently tied with the Bills and Jets on top all posting 5-3 records. The Patriots have the tools to make a season out of this disaster. Matt Cassell will have to step up as this team also is lacking in the running attack. Patriots are arguably the "winning'est" team in the 21st century. They won't end that this year.
Bills: 5-3
This is a team that had a great start to their season but frankly, I do not see it continuing. They have yet to win a division game, losing to both the Dolphins and the Jets. There is still a lot of season left and things could turn around. They have to play the Pats this coming week and also they end their season with New England. They have to play the Dolphins and the Jets one more time each and at this point, if they do not begin to play better in their division, I cannot see them going anywhere. Trent Edwards needs to stay healthy and that I do not think is possible. Bills will come close again but miss the playoffs.
Jets: 5-3
This team has been turning things around. They have won their last two contests beating Buffalo
and Kansas City. KC is a game they obviously should have won and they did. This team has veteran leadership and I like their chances. They get a second chance at NE in week 11 after they should roll over St. Louis. As this team has moved on through the 1st half, I have seen improvements. Brett Favre is getting more adapted to the offense and his receivers like him throwing them the ball. One key for them is to continue to play solid defense. Their offense is going to score points and it is a matter on who scores more. Most of the jets games this year will be shootouts and with that, defense. I give them a wild cars spot.Dolphins: 4-4
This team is funny. It looks like they have a team that could compete for a Super Bowl title. But if you w
atch the way they play the game, you may change your mind. The Dolphins scrounge wins out of pretty talented opponents. Two weeks in a row beating up on New England and San Diego, really made critics take a step back and see if this team is for real. They very well could be. I don't see it in the near future. Trickery and creativity only get you so far. Experience and clutch performing skills are what this team lacks. Can't see them winning the big game.How I see them finishing...
Patriots 11-5
Jets 11-5
Bills 9-7
Dolphins 8-8
NFC (B)EAST:
This has to be top 5 toughest division is professional sports. Between the 4 teams, we could see over 40 wins. It would not surprise me in the least. These teams all play each other tough and it is always hard to predict a winner when it comes to these 4 teams. The last few years we have seen these teams take it right up to the finish and it could take until week 17 to determine a winner of the NFC East.
Giants: 7-1
You really have to consider this team the favorite at the half. They are reining Super bowl Champs and they are certainly starting right where they left off. Eli Manning may not be the ideal quarterback for your fantasy team but he has proven that he knows how to run an offense and a team. He flat out wins games. If you had said that a year ago, you would have been laughed at. But he took his team to the big show last year and now they start out 7-1. The Giants are the team to beat in the second half. It would surprise me if they do not win the division.
Eagles: 5-3
This is a team that will turn into a playoff threat. Donovan McNabb can never be underestimated. The Eagles finished a dismal 8-8 in 2007 but that is going to change here in 2008. Despite their lack to perform in divisional games, 0-2 currently, they will begin to turn the boosters on. Andy Reid will groom this team in the next 8 games and they have really put themselves in a position to do some damage. They are on a 3 game winning streak and next week the two teams in the NFC East with a 3 game streak will go head to head, Giants Eagles.
Redskins:
6-3It is party time in the nations capital. Yea yea the presidential election is a reason to party but can you believe that the Skins are 6-3? It is for real. With the Cowboys falling off the face off the Earth, the redskins look like they could possibly trump the team from Dallas and take a playoff spot. This team holds the leagues leading rusher who really looks like he is a freight train rolling down a hill. Look out for the skins come December.
Cowboys: 5-4
What a story to talk about here. The only thing that I can say that i have liked out of this team is that TO realized that he does not need to shoot his mouth off when the team starts to lose. I was pleased about that. Maybe he should give some advice to Ocho
Cinco. You can't ever count the Cowboys out and with Tony Romo scheduled to come back after this bye week, this could be a whole different team. They have been battling injuries but are only at 5-4. That is not a bad record after playing your last 3 games without your stud QB. Marion the Barbarian will finish strong as well I think the only question left is who is the teams Holder?How I see them finishing...
Giants 13-3
Eagles 11-5
Cowboys 10-6
Redskins 10-6
Coming soon, NFC/AFC North!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
NBA Eastern Conference Preview 08
It is Eastern Conference time. The season of 82 games has begun. Time for basketball ball. The east had a good draft in 2008. The incoming class of young players is really going to help some of these teams and maybe even give a couple teams the edge that have not been in playoff talks for a while...
Atlantic
Boston Celtics #1 seed
Toronto Rapters #5 seed
Philadelphia 76'ers #7 seed
New Jersey Nets
New York Knicks
I think that this one was an obvious pick for the winner. Boston has all around balance on the court. The trio of Garnett, Pierce and Allen can really be turned into the quartet. Rajon Rondo had an all star season in 2007-2008 and he is going to be huge for the Celtics down the road. He will need to distribute the ball to all guys and really use all the tools available. Toronto is up and coming, this year a solid palyoff run. You have to love their chances with Chirs Bosh along with the addition of Jermaine O'Neal. Anthony Parker and Jamario Moon will most likely shoot the Rapters into the postseason. Philly is improving. Elton Brand is only making things better. Sam Dalembert and Andre Iguoldala will be the leaders of this team the key is that they need to win their division games. I don't see another championship in the city of brotherly love this year. The only good thing about the Nets is that all their games are on YES so they are usually on when they play. The Knicks, getting rid of Isiah=good, the team is just not going anywhere.
Central
Chicago Bulls #3 seed
Cleveland Cavaliers #4 seed
Detroit Pistons
Milwaukee Bucks
Indiana Pacers
This is my surprise pick. I really like the way the Bulls looked in preseason and it is time for them to be back in the postseason. Derrick Rose is my pick for rookie of the year. The 1st round draft pick looked good and I believe will transition well to the NBA. Luol Deng needs to stay healthy and also, this team needs to utilize its depth with Hinrick and Gordon coming off the bench. Cavs are looking good as well. This is the only team that can give a scare to the Bulls. The addition of Mo Williams is key to their success and I bleieve they will land at the 4th playoff seed. The Pistons are falling apart and this is the year I beleive we will see them miss the playoffs. The Bucks are improving while the Pacers, will just fall off the face of the Earth.
Southeast
Atlanta Hawks #2 seed
Miami Heat #6 seed
Orlando Magic #8 seed
Charlotte Bobcats
Washington Wizards
This is the year for the Hawks. Their entire roster is a threat to make the All-Star team midway through. Josh Smth and Marvin Williams in the front court with Al Horford in the center. The addition of Joe Johnson last year and Mike Bibby controlling the point, this team is all business. The Heat will win more than 16 games this year. Their young guns will be the factor in that as well. Their improvement will land them in a low seed in the playoffs. The Magic are not going to be as effective this season as last. The Bobcats and Wizards are both going to struggle. Without Arenas, the Wizards will have trouble getting off to a good start and that will put them into a hole right out of the gate.
Atlantic
Boston Celtics #1 seed
Toronto Rapters #5 seed
Philadelphia 76'ers #7 seed
New Jersey Nets
New York Knicks
I think that this one was an obvious pick for the winner. Boston has all around balance on the court. The trio of Garnett, Pierce and Allen can really be turned into the quartet. Rajon Rondo had an all star season in 2007-2008 and he is going to be huge for the Celtics down the road. He will need to distribute the ball to all guys and really use all the tools available. Toronto is up and coming, this year a solid palyoff run. You have to love their chances with Chirs Bosh along with the addition of Jermaine O'Neal. Anthony Parker and Jamario Moon will most likely shoot the Rapters into the postseason. Philly is improving. Elton Brand is only making things better. Sam Dalembert and Andre Iguoldala will be the leaders of this team the key is that they need to win their division games. I don't see another championship in the city of brotherly love this year. The only good thing about the Nets is that all their games are on YES so they are usually on when they play. The Knicks, getting rid of Isiah=good, the team is just not going anywhere.
Central
Chicago Bulls #3 seed
Cleveland Cavaliers #4 seed
Detroit Pistons
Milwaukee Bucks
Indiana Pacers
This is my surprise pick. I really like the way the Bulls looked in preseason and it is time for them to be back in the postseason. Derrick Rose is my pick for rookie of the year. The 1st round draft pick looked good and I believe will transition well to the NBA. Luol Deng needs to stay healthy and also, this team needs to utilize its depth with Hinrick and Gordon coming off the bench. Cavs are looking good as well. This is the only team that can give a scare to the Bulls. The addition of Mo Williams is key to their success and I bleieve they will land at the 4th playoff seed. The Pistons are falling apart and this is the year I beleive we will see them miss the playoffs. The Bucks are improving while the Pacers, will just fall off the face of the Earth.
Southeast
Atlanta Hawks #2 seed
Miami Heat #6 seed
Orlando Magic #8 seed
Charlotte Bobcats
Washington Wizards
This is the year for the Hawks. Their entire roster is a threat to make the All-Star team midway through. Josh Smth and Marvin Williams in the front court with Al Horford in the center. The addition of Joe Johnson last year and Mike Bibby controlling the point, this team is all business. The Heat will win more than 16 games this year. Their young guns will be the factor in that as well. Their improvement will land them in a low seed in the playoffs. The Magic are not going to be as effective this season as last. The Bobcats and Wizards are both going to struggle. Without Arenas, the Wizards will have trouble getting off to a good start and that will put them into a hole right out of the gate.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
NBA Western Conference Preview 08
The NBA 200-2009 season is now officially underway and with that i only see appropriate to give you my predictions as to what will be the outcome of this season.
Northwest
Utah Jazz #3 seed
Denver Nuggets #7 seed
Portland Trail Blazers
Minnesota Timberwolves
Oklahoma City Thunder
This division seems to always be pretty close. The Jazz have the tools to walk away with this division again. The Nuggets have the talent and Portland has the young guys stepping in and will take a few years until they are great. As we have seen in the past, the northwest division in the west has not been very strong. The Nuggets will give the Jazz a run but at the end of the season, I beleive you will see a division filled with 3 teams fighting for a playoff spot. I do not see a lot out of Minnesota. Kevin Love will help but he can't work miracles. The Thunder will get more fans in Oklahoma City, but will it matter?
Pacific
L.A. Lakers #2 seed
Phoenix Suns #4 seed
L.A. Clippers #8 seed
Golden State Warriors
Sacramento Kings
All the way west out on the Pacific coast is where this conference usually ends up. There is so much talent in this division of 5 teams. Kobe and the Lakers will pick up right where they left off. They made it all the way to the Championship last year and will be looking to do the same in 2008-2009 and this time, come out on top. The Suns will struggle based on the fact that they are going to be dealing with injuries all year. Shaq will be on and off with injuries. Steve Nash is getting up there in age and he might spend some time on the sidelines. Injuries will haunt the Suns although they will make it to the playoffs, it will not be a smooth ride. I have always liked the Clippers. With the addition of Baron Davis, this team s now built for a run into the playoffs. Golden State is just the 4th team in the state of California in this division. They really should just call it the California division. And Sacramento, yeah....
Southwest
New Orleans Hornets #1 seed
Dallas Mavericks #5 seed
Houston Rockets #6 seed
San Antonio Spurs
Memphis Grizzlies
Another division filled with talent. In the southwest, there are usually 4 teams that have hopes of the postseason and this year, same story. The Spurs are going to struggle. Ginobili out for the start of the season is going to play a huge role and the Spurs will fall into a huge hole that they will realize they cannot get out of. They will miss the playoffs for the first time since 1997. The Hornets are becoming the powerhouse in the west and really the team to beat. This division will be a runaway although the records of the Mavs and the Rockets will have good records and will make the playoffs. But compared to the Hornets, it won't even be close. The Mavs with Dirk and Jason Terry are always a playoff threat. Not that they do anything when they get there. Ron Artest, T-Mac and Yao will team up for a 3rd place finish. They will need to play without Artest I'm sure for a few weeks because everyone knows he cannot stay out of trouble. The Grizzlies are going to struggle again. Hakim Warrick is their star. Hey, SU alum, but he cannot lead a team to anything more than a 5th place finish hoping to not be the floor mat of the league.
Northwest
Utah Jazz #3 seed
Denver Nuggets #7 seed
Portland Trail Blazers
Minnesota Timberwolves
Oklahoma City Thunder
This division seems to always be pretty close. The Jazz have the tools to walk away with this division again. The Nuggets have the talent and Portland has the young guys stepping in and will take a few years until they are great. As we have seen in the past, the northwest division in the west has not been very strong. The Nuggets will give the Jazz a run but at the end of the season, I beleive you will see a division filled with 3 teams fighting for a playoff spot. I do not see a lot out of Minnesota. Kevin Love will help but he can't work miracles. The Thunder will get more fans in Oklahoma City, but will it matter?
Pacific
L.A. Lakers #2 seed
Phoenix Suns #4 seed
L.A. Clippers #8 seed
Golden State Warriors
Sacramento Kings
All the way west out on the Pacific coast is where this conference usually ends up. There is so much talent in this division of 5 teams. Kobe and the Lakers will pick up right where they left off. They made it all the way to the Championship last year and will be looking to do the same in 2008-2009 and this time, come out on top. The Suns will struggle based on the fact that they are going to be dealing with injuries all year. Shaq will be on and off with injuries. Steve Nash is getting up there in age and he might spend some time on the sidelines. Injuries will haunt the Suns although they will make it to the playoffs, it will not be a smooth ride. I have always liked the Clippers. With the addition of Baron Davis, this team s now built for a run into the playoffs. Golden State is just the 4th team in the state of California in this division. They really should just call it the California division. And Sacramento, yeah....
Southwest
New Orleans Hornets #1 seed
Dallas Mavericks #5 seed
Houston Rockets #6 seed
San Antonio Spurs
Memphis Grizzlies
Another division filled with talent. In the southwest, there are usually 4 teams that have hopes of the postseason and this year, same story. The Spurs are going to struggle. Ginobili out for the start of the season is going to play a huge role and the Spurs will fall into a huge hole that they will realize they cannot get out of. They will miss the playoffs for the first time since 1997. The Hornets are becoming the powerhouse in the west and really the team to beat. This division will be a runaway although the records of the Mavs and the Rockets will have good records and will make the playoffs. But compared to the Hornets, it won't even be close. The Mavs with Dirk and Jason Terry are always a playoff threat. Not that they do anything when they get there. Ron Artest, T-Mac and Yao will team up for a 3rd place finish. They will need to play without Artest I'm sure for a few weeks because everyone knows he cannot stay out of trouble. The Grizzlies are going to struggle again. Hakim Warrick is their star. Hey, SU alum, but he cannot lead a team to anything more than a 5th place finish hoping to not be the floor mat of the league.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
World Series 2008 Preview
A season has come. And a season is a mere 7 games away from completion. This year of baseball has been one of surprises as well as upsets. This Fall Classic couldn't demonstrate both any better. It is out of this world that the Tampa Bay Rays have turned their franchise around and made it to the final dance in October and can possibly be crowned the finest team in baseball. The Phillies are the same story. They made the playoffs last year but did not show a lot of promise. This year is a different story. With one of the most prominent bullpens in the game, the Phillies are looking to take out the young guys from the sunshine state. But who will prevail?
The Breakdown:
Game 1
Hamels vs. Kazmir
Out of all the games that are most important if there is such a thing in the World Series, it is game 1. The last 5 years, the team that has taken game 1 has moved on to win the Fall Classic. This lefty-lefty match up is probably going to be the one and only pitchers dual we will see in this possible 7-game series. Hamels is 3-0 in the postseason with a 1.53 ERA with his counter part Scott Kazmir standing in at 1-0 with a not so impressive ERA being over 4. Cole Hamels has one luxury against Kazmir that he does not have. A bullpen. The bullpen of the Phillies is going to lead them to victory in this game. It will be a pitchers dual through 7 but look for B.J. Upton or Evan Longoria to get the Rays the lead early. The lineup for the Rays is primarily right-handed while the Phillies are predominantly lefty. I see the Rays taking game 1 of the World Series by a slim margin but get out on top early and carry that lead all the way to the end.
Rays over Phillies 4-2
Game 2
Myers vs. Shields
This is the chance for the Rays to really take it to the Phillies. "Big Game James" Shields is listed as the Rays ace and has been the teams top starter throughout the regular season. Myers has not impressed me as of late. He did pitch well in the NLCS but in the last leg of the regular season, he slid back down to under average performances. The thing that the Rays need to do is keep the bullpen fresh. With David Price and J.P. Howell as your lefty specialists and Wheeler and Balfour as the righthanders in the pen, this team needs to keep these go to guys fresh and not over use them in these first couple games. This game 2 is another that is weighted in the favor of the Rays due to their explosive lineup and dominate starting pitching. Sorry Philly, your amazing bullpen won't need to get the save for the second game either.
Rays over Phillies 7-3
Game 3
Moyer vs. Garza
This is the turning point of the series. Game 3 I also believe will go to the Tampa Rays. I must be sounding like a broken record but I cannot look past the dominant starting pitching. Garza, the ALCS MVP, is on the hill for the Rays but the one thing against the Rays in this game is that it is moved back to Philly. Games 1 and 2 were in Tampa and in front of the home crowd it is easy to perform but on the road, things get interesting. This could possibly be a shootout. I am not convinced and sold on either starter in this game. Garza is solid and Jamie Moyer's numbers prove to be, but the thing is, he is old. Age is one thing but with age must come experience and I do not believe that Moyer is the old-wise experienced pitcher that will lead a team out of a 2 games to none deficit.
***Could see extra innings***
Rays over Phillies 11-9
Game 4
Blanton vs. Sonnanstine
This is for all the marbles. After a long time contemplating and deciding what i really think is going to happen in this possible elimination game for the Phillies, I am thinking we have seen the end. David Price is going to close out the series just like he did in the ALCS. For Rays fans, get your party hats because the Fall Classic is home in Tampa. The Phillies will have to wait yet another year to get a ring. Enjoy it Tampa!!
World Series MVP: B.J. Upton
Monday, October 20, 2008
Rays Win! Rays Win! Rays Win!
Tip your hats to the Rays from Tampa Bay, Florida because they are now the American League Champions of 2008 beating the Red Sox in a heated 7 game ALCS. What a series to watch as both team gave reason as to why they deserve the crown atop the American League. The Rays have surprised everyone. At no time in the off season after the 2007 playoffs would anyone even thought of saying that the Tampa Bay Dev, oops, Rays would even win 50 % of their games this year. A team that has been in the dumps since their creation was certainly not in my 2008 playoff talks as were they in any of yours to say the least. But yet again another surprise just as we saw last year with the Colorado Rockies making it to the WS against the Red Sox. It is great for baseball to see teams of this stature to finally improve incredibly and advance to a World Series and have the chance to be named the best team in baseball.
They certainly were the best in the AL in the regular season but no one believe that they could hold on. This team won 99 games in the regular season, their best before that, 77. You do the math with a 162 game season, that is not going to get you to the playoffs. Also, playing in one of the most difficult divisions in baseball on top of that. These guys just beat up on the Yankees and the Red Sox in the regular season. Two teams that are usually always in the October talks when it comes to playoff baseball. It looks to be that there is now a 3-team front coming out of the east and with that more competition and a tougher route into the playoffs for these three talented squads.
**One thing that I was not pleased with when I was watching game 7 of this series last night was when the ALCS MVP award was given out and it did not go to B.J. Upton. For crying out loud, the man hit 4 home runs alone in the ALCS. He racked up 11 huge RBI's and also hit .321 collecting 9 hits in only 28 at-bats. It just seemed that when this team needed a boost they got it from Upton and to not give him the MVP award is completely inappropriate. Matt Garza pitched two incredible ball games. I am not taking that away from him at all. The fact is that Upton played everyday. He played in the field, he hit 2nd in the lineup, his attributions were utilized on an everyday basis unlike Garza who pitched only 2 games. I disagree with giving the MVP award for the regular season to a pitcher as well. Position players do too much game in and game out to not recognize them when they lift their team to victory especially in a huge situation like B.J. Upton did.
World Series 2008: Phillies vs. Rays should be a great series as both teams look to leave their mark in history. As for the Red Sox, the "Nation" is now the "Bay State" is now the "lets go golfing state." See ya in April.
They certainly were the best in the AL in the regular season but no one believe that they could hold on. This team won 99 games in the regular season, their best before that, 77. You do the math with a 162 game season, that is not going to get you to the playoffs. Also, playing in one of the most difficult divisions in baseball on top of that. These guys just beat up on the Yankees and the Red Sox in the regular season. Two teams that are usually always in the October talks when it comes to playoff baseball. It looks to be that there is now a 3-team front coming out of the east and with that more competition and a tougher route into the playoffs for these three talented squads.
**One thing that I was not pleased with when I was watching game 7 of this series last night was when the ALCS MVP award was given out and it did not go to B.J. Upton. For crying out loud, the man hit 4 home runs alone in the ALCS. He racked up 11 huge RBI's and also hit .321 collecting 9 hits in only 28 at-bats. It just seemed that when this team needed a boost they got it from Upton and to not give him the MVP award is completely inappropriate. Matt Garza pitched two incredible ball games. I am not taking that away from him at all. The fact is that Upton played everyday. He played in the field, he hit 2nd in the lineup, his attributions were utilized on an everyday basis unlike Garza who pitched only 2 games. I disagree with giving the MVP award for the regular season to a pitcher as well. Position players do too much game in and game out to not recognize them when they lift their team to victory especially in a huge situation like B.J. Upton did.
World Series 2008: Phillies vs. Rays should be a great series as both teams look to leave their mark in history. As for the Red Sox, the "Nation" is now the "Bay State" is now the "lets go golfing state." See ya in April.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
They are Singing in Philly Tonight!
Coming into a big game 5 carrying a 3-1 lead in the NLCS, the Philadelphia Phillies move ahead and become National League Champions moving by the Dodgers by the score of 5-1. You could see this outcome brewing right from game one. Cole Hamels is unstoppable. He was named NLCS MVP as he was the winning pitcher in games 1 and 5 posting a 1.93 ERA through the opener and the closing game of the league series. The only game for the Phillies to drop was game 3 when the action shifted from Philadelphia to LA and the Dodgers had their chance to bounce back down 2 games to none and did come away with a win but that was it. Winning in five games is huge for this Phillies squad because now they get a weeks rest until the 22ND when Game 1 of the 2008 World Series is slated to go down.
Overall the Dodgers seemed to be the favorites coming into the series. Sweeping the Cubs in 3 games, 2 of which were in Chicago, put them in a league of their own. Toppling the best team in baseball by that margin put high expectations on a young but talented staff of Dodger Blue. But in the end it is all blues in LA but Joe Torre did get this team to the NLCS in his first year with the team. Coincidence? I think not. Thanks New York! The pitching staff of the Dodgers seemed to step it up against the Cubs but when it came down to stamina and lasting through a long series, they could not execute. I do not really think that the Dodgers beat the Cubs per say. More or less it was the Cubs beating the Cubs and the Dodgers just took that lack of momentum and rallied to win an easy 3 out of 5 game series in the division series. That is another story that I need to address at a later date.
The Phillies move on to the World Series for the first time since 1993 when they took down the Atlanta Braves to move on and eventually lose to the Toronto Blue Jays in the World Series. Party time in the city of Brotherly Love! Hopefully some brotherly love can be shown between Kuroda and Victorino. Nah, I doubt it.
Who will it be...
Phillies vs. Rays or Phillies vs. Red Sox. The Sox are down 3-1 and need a 3 game run to get past their division rival. Game 5 of that series is scheduled for Thursday night at 8:07 pm on TBS.
** Quick note: My prayers and wishes go out to Charlie Manuel as his mother passed away earlier this week. Going through a time of such happiness and sorrow at the same time must be incredibly difficult. But it gives him a reason to win and motivation to succeed in his job and his love of the game off baseball. Good luck to Charlie and the Phillies in the World Series!
Monday, October 13, 2008
Tony who? Romo sidelined up to 4 weeks...
Another disappointing loss for the Lone star state as they see their NFC East Champion Dallas Cowboys drop yet another game early in this 2008-2009 regular season. This time falling in overtime to the Arizona Cardinals who are making a run at winning the NFC West division as they stand in with a 4-2 record. But the main story of the day was the man under center for the 'boys, Tony Romo. The Pro Bowl quarterback is going to be out for up to 4 weeks due to a fractured finger in his throwing hand. The injury occurred on the Cowboys first and only drive in OT before the Cardinals blocked their 3 and out punt for the winning score. First time in NFL history that a game has been won in OT by a blocked punt for a touchdown. Not the type of ending that the Cowboys were hoping for but news turned from bad to worse as they soon found out they would be without their star QB for a month.
Replacing the injured Romo is Brad Johnson who is a veteran QB and will have the weight of the Lone star on his shoulders for the next 4 weeks. He hasn't seen too much action as of late but highlighting his career is a Super Bowl XXXVII victory with the Tampa Bay Buccs over the Oakland Raiders in 2003. He is definitely not a Tony Romo passer but he does have the resume to take over temporarily for a playoff hopeful team and at least win 2 out of the 4 games he could possibly start.
In the next 4 weeks for the Cowboys comes 4 opponents including: Rams (1-4), Buccs (4-2), Giants (4-0) and the Redskins (4-2). The first two games should be won and it all depends on how effective the Dallas running game is and if it establishes itself early in those two ball games. Playing two division games without your guy under center is going to hurt them. They already fell to the Skins at home and now have to play them on the road in Washington. The Giants always play them tough and being undefeated and reining Super Bowl Champs, they really are the team to beat.
Should be an interesting month of October and beginning of November if you are a Cowboys fan. Keep faith because the two wild card teams will most likely come out of the East as it does almost every year. Don't get scared, you will most likely get to see your precious Cowboys choke in the postseason once again...or who knows, maybe the curse will be broken...have to wait and see.
Replacing the injured Romo is Brad Johnson who is a veteran QB and will have the weight of the Lone star on his shoulders for the next 4 weeks. He hasn't seen too much action as of late but highlighting his career is a Super Bowl XXXVII victory with the Tampa Bay Buccs over the Oakland Raiders in 2003. He is definitely not a Tony Romo passer but he does have the resume to take over temporarily for a playoff hopeful team and at least win 2 out of the 4 games he could possibly start.
In the next 4 weeks for the Cowboys comes 4 opponents including: Rams (1-4), Buccs (4-2), Giants (4-0) and the Redskins (4-2). The first two games should be won and it all depends on how effective the Dallas running game is and if it establishes itself early in those two ball games. Playing two division games without your guy under center is going to hurt them. They already fell to the Skins at home and now have to play them on the road in Washington. The Giants always play them tough and being undefeated and reining Super Bowl Champs, they really are the team to beat.
Should be an interesting month of October and beginning of November if you are a Cowboys fan. Keep faith because the two wild card teams will most likely come out of the East as it does almost every year. Don't get scared, you will most likely get to see your precious Cowboys choke in the postseason once again...or who knows, maybe the curse will be broken...have to wait and see.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
SU Football falls 17-6 to UWV
This is no new story that has never been heard before. But today's loss to previously top 10 ranked West Virginia is not as big of a disappointment. Robinson was not under center for the Orange as taking his place was Cameron Dantley who did not have a bad day. Not great completion numbers as he was 24-40 but throwing for 204 yards with no TD's and a interception. Brinkley had a good day in the back field getting 28 touches for 144 yards averaging 5.1 yards per carry. The top target for the 'Cuse was Donte Davis as he pulled down 7 catches for 62 yards. The Orange did not play poorly. Syracuse led the Mountaineers in almost every team category as they had 346 total yards to UWV's 269 yards. The Orange also held on to the ball for 35:12 of the game as their opponents only had possession for 24:48. The main concern that I think all Orange fans have is the fact that they do not have anybody to finish and get the ball in the endzone. They have the guys who can get the ball down the field and also they are not turning the ball over numerous times either as they have in the past. They have young player to build a team around but no stand outs.
Do I see this team really moving forward and winning the majority of their games this season, not a chance. But do I believe that there is possibility for this team to win a few of their upcoming games, yes I really do. Next week against South Florda is not a game that the Orange are going to win. The number 19 ranked Bulls are a team that is all-around solid. But in two weeks when Louisville comes to the dome, that is a game that needs to be won. If coach Robinson wants to keep his job, Louisville needs to go down. Another one win season is not gonig to be acceptable to keep his job. He has the tools to progress this season and get a few more victories but it really depends on what the coaching staff has in their play calling and the execution of plays deep into the game. This team gets out in front of a lot of teams but cannot hold onto the win late into games.
Don't go out and purchase your Orange football tickets to beat the low prices. I'm sure that by the end of the season, season-ticket holders will be paying people totake their tickets off their hands.
BTW: Carmelo Game should be exciting this coming weekend. Friday night, preseason game between the Nuggets and the Suns in the Dome. Melo makes his way home to Syracuse to pay tribute to his National Championship town in upstate New York.
Do I see this team really moving forward and winning the majority of their games this season, not a chance. But do I believe that there is possibility for this team to win a few of their upcoming games, yes I really do. Next week against South Florda is not a game that the Orange are going to win. The number 19 ranked Bulls are a team that is all-around solid. But in two weeks when Louisville comes to the dome, that is a game that needs to be won. If coach Robinson wants to keep his job, Louisville needs to go down. Another one win season is not gonig to be acceptable to keep his job. He has the tools to progress this season and get a few more victories but it really depends on what the coaching staff has in their play calling and the execution of plays deep into the game. This team gets out in front of a lot of teams but cannot hold onto the win late into games.
Don't go out and purchase your Orange football tickets to beat the low prices. I'm sure that by the end of the season, season-ticket holders will be paying people totake their tickets off their hands.
BTW: Carmelo Game should be exciting this coming weekend. Friday night, preseason game between the Nuggets and the Suns in the Dome. Melo makes his way home to Syracuse to pay tribute to his National Championship town in upstate New York.
Friday, October 10, 2008
NFL Week 6: NYG on Monday Night, Jets see Ocho Cinco and Buffalo gets the week off
Taking a look into the week 6 match ups comes an interesting week for teams out of the NY state. Starting out in Buffalo. No game to take place Ralph Wilson Stadium this weekend as Buffalo gets their bye week and a week to recoup after the devastating loss to Kurt Warner and the ever so dangerous on any particular day Arizona Cardinals. Anytime your quarter back throws for nearly 500 yards and loses, which is what happened to the Cardinals when they met up with the Jets in week 4, your team is not doing something right. Pittsburgh, Tennessee, Kansas City and Buffalo all get a two week break to prepare for week 7 as 3 out of those 4 teams are looking to win their divisions.
The Jets are coming off their bye week as they get a crack at the 0-5 Bengals and their trash talking wide out Chad "Ocho Cinco" Johnson. Johnson never got a chance to kiss the star as the Bengals were beat 31-22 by the Cowboys last week getting into the endzone twice through the air but not through the hands of number 85. But the Jets came out of the bye week last year toppling the Steelers in a close three point victory by the total of 19-16. Brett Farve has been everything the Jets were hoping for with his 935 passing yards thus far with 12 TD's and only 4 INT's. Playing at home against the Bengals is a gift and should lead to an easy week coming off the two week break.
Prediction: Jets over Bengals 38-21
Monday night football this week is hopfully going to serve as a high scoring and intense match up between two non-division opponents. The Browns need to get back on track. Last year, Cleveland finished behind the Pittsburgh Steelers with a record of 10-6 in the regular season. Starting out this newly 2008 season with a 1-3 record is not the start any club is hoping for but this game is the one that I believe we will see them bounce out of their funk and get back on track. Playing on the Monday night stage at home is the perfect scene to show the rest of the country and the NFL that the Browns are still a contender. Will they be able to get past regining Super Bowl Champions New York Giants? I do not see it happening but look for a close tight game that will prove to be a good game and an exciting one to watch.
Prediction: Giants over Browns 21-20
The Jets are coming off their bye week as they get a crack at the 0-5 Bengals and their trash talking wide out Chad "Ocho Cinco" Johnson. Johnson never got a chance to kiss the star as the Bengals were beat 31-22 by the Cowboys last week getting into the endzone twice through the air but not through the hands of number 85. But the Jets came out of the bye week last year toppling the Steelers in a close three point victory by the total of 19-16. Brett Farve has been everything the Jets were hoping for with his 935 passing yards thus far with 12 TD's and only 4 INT's. Playing at home against the Bengals is a gift and should lead to an easy week coming off the two week break.
Prediction: Jets over Bengals 38-21
Monday night football this week is hopfully going to serve as a high scoring and intense match up between two non-division opponents. The Browns need to get back on track. Last year, Cleveland finished behind the Pittsburgh Steelers with a record of 10-6 in the regular season. Starting out this newly 2008 season with a 1-3 record is not the start any club is hoping for but this game is the one that I believe we will see them bounce out of their funk and get back on track. Playing on the Monday night stage at home is the perfect scene to show the rest of the country and the NFL that the Browns are still a contender. Will they be able to get past regining Super Bowl Champions New York Giants? I do not see it happening but look for a close tight game that will prove to be a good game and an exciting one to watch.
Prediction: Giants over Browns 21-20
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
NLCS/ALCS Breakdown: Lets Talk History!
NLCS: Torre makes another run? This time in Dodger blue.
Prediction: Dodgers over Phillies 4-1
This series I believe was over when James Loney hit the grand slam back against the Cubs in game 1 of the NLDS. Beating the Cubs is a feat in itself but sweeping the best team record wise in the NL is astounding and really is something that I was caught off guard by. The Dodgers play in a very weak division but we have seen this in the past from the D-backs and as well as from the Rockies in last years playoff run to the series. Record wise, the NL West is abysmal. Only one team finished over .500 this year, that being LA. Both Western Divisions have been very weak competition wise and each year it seems that one team is always running away with it toward the end of the year. In the AL, the Angels not so successful this year. But that's besides the point. This year it is different for the Dodgers. New management is in town and that is really where I think this all stems out from. When fighting a war you go after the general but in this case, Torre has been untouchable. He hands down out-managed Lou Pinella in the NLDS. And that comes with experience. Something this team is really lacking roster wise. This is a young fiery ball club but sometimes with a wise coaching staff and a young talented roster is a recipe for bigger and better things. Manny Ramirez is hitting the ball better than anyone else in baseball at this point. James Loney, Russel Martin and a healthy Rafael Furcal only improves the Dodgers chances to move on. I say we'll see the Dodger blue on the diamond in the Series.
ALCS: Tropicana, Here we come!
Prediction: Rays over Red Sox 4-2
A call for the ages but one that will hold true. The Red Sox have struggled against the Rays all season. We have already learned that the regular season means absolutely nothing. I am not picking the Rays because of their success against Boston this year. This team is going to win because they have one of the most all around teams in the game. There is not one big name on their roster that will even be in the MVP talks this year. Evan Longoria is a long shot for Rookie of the Year but due to injury, that may hurt his chances. But that doesn't matter. What matters is that this team plays as a team. They do not rely on the long ball to win them games. Or shutout 1-hitters from their pitching staff. They play as a team. This group of guys is one that you would want a Little League team to watch and observe play the game. The do little things that win ball games and that is why they are so successful. Joe Madden hits and runs, he steals bases, he utilizes his middle relief pitching in a way that does not run them dry after two games. This team has the mentality as well as the talent to beat anyone in baseball. The team salary doesn't matter how good a team is on the baseball diamond. Look for Tampa to drop the first game but not to lose again until game 4, and then win out the rest and take the series dropping only 2 games. Now the Red Sox are obviously the favorites to win. But with Josh Beckett not 100 percent and Mike Lowell questionable, this team will have a tough time being dominant over the red hot Rays.
No dancing for Paps in his underwear this year, sorry Boston. Manny will be doing all the dancing this year, in DODGER BLUE!
World Series 2008: Dodgers vs. Rays (talk about history in the making)
Prediction: Dodgers over Phillies 4-1
This series I believe was over when James Loney hit the grand slam back against the Cubs in game 1 of the NLDS. Beating the Cubs is a feat in itself but sweeping the best team record wise in the NL is astounding and really is something that I was caught off guard by. The Dodgers play in a very weak division but we have seen this in the past from the D-backs and as well as from the Rockies in last years playoff run to the series. Record wise, the NL West is abysmal. Only one team finished over .500 this year, that being LA. Both Western Divisions have been very weak competition wise and each year it seems that one team is always running away with it toward the end of the year. In the AL, the Angels not so successful this year. But that's besides the point. This year it is different for the Dodgers. New management is in town and that is really where I think this all stems out from. When fighting a war you go after the general but in this case, Torre has been untouchable. He hands down out-managed Lou Pinella in the NLDS. And that comes with experience. Something this team is really lacking roster wise. This is a young fiery ball club but sometimes with a wise coaching staff and a young talented roster is a recipe for bigger and better things. Manny Ramirez is hitting the ball better than anyone else in baseball at this point. James Loney, Russel Martin and a healthy Rafael Furcal only improves the Dodgers chances to move on. I say we'll see the Dodger blue on the diamond in the Series.
ALCS: Tropicana, Here we come!
Prediction: Rays over Red Sox 4-2
A call for the ages but one that will hold true. The Red Sox have struggled against the Rays all season. We have already learned that the regular season means absolutely nothing. I am not picking the Rays because of their success against Boston this year. This team is going to win because they have one of the most all around teams in the game. There is not one big name on their roster that will even be in the MVP talks this year. Evan Longoria is a long shot for Rookie of the Year but due to injury, that may hurt his chances. But that doesn't matter. What matters is that this team plays as a team. They do not rely on the long ball to win them games. Or shutout 1-hitters from their pitching staff. They play as a team. This group of guys is one that you would want a Little League team to watch and observe play the game. The do little things that win ball games and that is why they are so successful. Joe Madden hits and runs, he steals bases, he utilizes his middle relief pitching in a way that does not run them dry after two games. This team has the mentality as well as the talent to beat anyone in baseball. The team salary doesn't matter how good a team is on the baseball diamond. Look for Tampa to drop the first game but not to lose again until game 4, and then win out the rest and take the series dropping only 2 games. Now the Red Sox are obviously the favorites to win. But with Josh Beckett not 100 percent and Mike Lowell questionable, this team will have a tough time being dominant over the red hot Rays.
No dancing for Paps in his underwear this year, sorry Boston. Manny will be doing all the dancing this year, in DODGER BLUE!
World Series 2008: Dodgers vs. Rays (talk about history in the making)
Sunday, October 5, 2008
NLCS Locked In: See Ya in Philly
After a busy weekend of action around the MLB, we have the National League Championship Series set and we are headed to the city of Brotherly Love! The Philadelphia Phillies took out the Milwaukee Brewers in 4 games moving them into the NLCS for the first time in 15 years. The Phillies have not won a playoff series since they met up with the Toronto Blue Jays in '93 in the World Series. The Brewers gave it a good run making it to the playoffs for the first time in 25 years. But when it comes down to it, the Phillies have moved on and after winning games 1 and 2. They dropped game 3 in Milwaukee but sealed the deal tonight, beating the Brew Crew 6-2. The Phillies scored all 6 runs by virtue of the long ball. After winning the East and eliminating the Mets, the Phillies are making it worth their while and are ready to play more baseball when the team from the NL West head to town. Wait, the Cubs got swept?
That is a fact. The Chicago Cubs have been swept out of the postseason for the second consecutive year. Even with the best record in the National League in the regular season, it is not enough to hold off none other than Joe Torre and the LA Dodgers. Not only did the Dodgers win their first postseason series since 1988, they did not drop a game to the top seed in the NL. Chicago did not play the type of baseball they have played all season. The main problem was that they dd not hit the ball. No matter how good your pitching staff is, if you do not support your starter, you are not going to win ball games. I have to tip my hat to Joe Torre who picked up his 18th playoffs series win of his career. I have the up most respect for Joe and I am glad to see him still successful at the helm. The Dodgers pitching worried me, but it certainly held its own. The staff as a whole only gave up 6 runs in 3 games to the Cubies. The pitching staff also only had 6 walks while racking up 24 K's. The young hitting duo of Russel Martin and James Loney was all it took to lift the Dodgers to their quick and painless 3-game sweep.
All in all, both the Dodgers and the Phillies deserve to be in this situation. Both squads played solid baseball and did what it took to win. I really liked what I saw from the Dodgers young players. Their fiery youth is what I believe could lift them to the big dance at the end of October. I will give a "revised" prediction to the remainder of the postseason once the American League Divisional Series' finish up. Currently the Rays lead over the White Sox 2-1 with the Red Sox leading over the Angels 2-0. The Sox could clinch a spot tonight as they are tied right now 4-4 in the bottom of the 7th. Game 4 of the Rays/Sox series will be tomorrow at 5 pm and if there is need for the Game 4 of the Angels/Red Sox series, that will follow at 8:30 pm.
Game. Set. Match. Good night from Chicago. Good Morning from Philly. See ya in the NLCS Manny!
That is a fact. The Chicago Cubs have been swept out of the postseason for the second consecutive year. Even with the best record in the National League in the regular season, it is not enough to hold off none other than Joe Torre and the LA Dodgers. Not only did the Dodgers win their first postseason series since 1988, they did not drop a game to the top seed in the NL. Chicago did not play the type of baseball they have played all season. The main problem was that they dd not hit the ball. No matter how good your pitching staff is, if you do not support your starter, you are not going to win ball games. I have to tip my hat to Joe Torre who picked up his 18th playoffs series win of his career. I have the up most respect for Joe and I am glad to see him still successful at the helm. The Dodgers pitching worried me, but it certainly held its own. The staff as a whole only gave up 6 runs in 3 games to the Cubies. The pitching staff also only had 6 walks while racking up 24 K's. The young hitting duo of Russel Martin and James Loney was all it took to lift the Dodgers to their quick and painless 3-game sweep.
All in all, both the Dodgers and the Phillies deserve to be in this situation. Both squads played solid baseball and did what it took to win. I really liked what I saw from the Dodgers young players. Their fiery youth is what I believe could lift them to the big dance at the end of October. I will give a "revised" prediction to the remainder of the postseason once the American League Divisional Series' finish up. Currently the Rays lead over the White Sox 2-1 with the Red Sox leading over the Angels 2-0. The Sox could clinch a spot tonight as they are tied right now 4-4 in the bottom of the 7th. Game 4 of the Rays/Sox series will be tomorrow at 5 pm and if there is need for the Game 4 of the Angels/Red Sox series, that will follow at 8:30 pm.
Game. Set. Match. Good night from Chicago. Good Morning from Philly. See ya in the NLCS Manny!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Chad "Ocho Cinco" Strikes Again
Leave it to the man wearing number 85 for the Cincinnati Bengals to open his huge mouth and make the entire organization look classless. ESPN had an interview with Chad in the locker room after the teams practice on Wednesday afternoon and once again, with a mic in front of his mouth, he cannot hold back. He told reporters that "I am going to score, and I will kiss the star. No disrespect to Dallas." He then continued to talk about how every time he talks to ESPN that they take what he says and turns it into an insult. "If ESPN tries to make me look bad, I will retire and take their jobs." Okay Chad. Keep dreaming. I really do not know how someone who is mentally stable can go on camera and speak in such a manner that will make him look like a completely immature. This is not the first time that out spurts from Chad has happened and I'm sure that it will not be the last. What I really do not understand is how the Bengals organization, that is 0-4, will let one of their players get away with speaking out like this and making the entire club look juvenile. He claims "that this club needs to be shook up, and I am the guy that needs to do it." Yes Chad, something with the Bengals needs to change and the team needs to get back on track but by speaking out in a manner that is inappropriate and does absolutely nothing good for your team is not what the team needs. With Ryan Fitzpatrick as your starter, good luck even getting a chance to kiss the star Chad. A 0-4 team has no place to make remarks like this and it does nothing for the Bengals except make them look totally immature. I have never been a fan of guys who speak out like this and really can you blame anyone for not caring for it? No one likes it when you make the game we call American Football look like a disgrace. Keep the mouths shut and play the game. Plain and simple, but difficult for some. Apparently.
MLB Postseaon Breakdown
This season of Major League Baseball has turned out to be one for the record books. Derek Jeter passes Babe Ruth on the all-time hits list in Yankee’s history; Ken Griffey Jr. reached 600 home runs; Shea and Yankee Stadium are closing their doors for good. We have seen the collapse of both New York squads once again. The Yankees miss the playoffs for the first time in 13 seasons. But this is all beside the point. It is baseball time in October!
This year makes for a very tough decision and prediction as to who we will see facing off in the “Big Show.” It almost seems weird not having to throw around the idea of “Subway Series” or even the Red Sox/ Yankees match up in the ALCS. No drama this year. Or is there?
National League Divisional Series’:
Cubs defeat Dodgers—5 games
This is probably the most difficult series to pick at this point in time. Both of these clubs have a lot of weapons but the thing that is going to ruin it for the Dodgers is their pitching. I mean, Derek Lowe is your ace? The guy went 14-11 this season. Not the numbers you expect out of your ace on the staff. I am not knocking the Dodgers in general. They have a solid ball club. Picking up Manny only made them better talent wise. Ego wise, I am not sure if this was the move they wanted. A lot of young talent in Loney and Kemp but the overall performance of the team will not win a playoff series, especially against a team like Chicago. (I still love you Joe!!)
The Cubies are for real this year. I really like everything about this team. When you have a pitching staff with Rich Harden as your 4th starter going 10-2 with 181 K’s over 148 innings pitched, you are in good shape. Zambrano is on fire. He finally got the no-no, Ted Lilly pitches well anywhere but New York; Dempster went 17-6 with 187 K’s over 206.2 innings pitched after being the team’s closer last season. Kerry Wood having a year and a half in the pen coming off injury. Geovany Soto makes the All-Star Game in his rookie season and is the best hitting catcher in baseball. Soriano, Lee and Ramirez will lead offensively. This team is built for success, top down.
Phillies defeat Brewers —4 games
The Brewers gave it their all. C.C. Sabathia had an incredible second half for Milwaukee and this team has shown that they competitors. Again, postseason play comes down to pitching. I don’t care how many big bats you have in your lineup, if the pitching is off and does not keep your team in the game, there is no shot. CC is not a one man wrecking crew. Ben Sheets is done for the year and Yovani Gallarado is starting game 1. Kid has not even started a regular season game this year and he is starting game 1. What are you thinking Milwaukee? Stick a fork in them, they’re done. Ned Yost gets fired and Dale Sveum leads them to a WS? Don’t think so. Maybe next year Brew Crew.
Although I cannot stand Ryan Howard and the fact that he strikes out every at bat but still remains atop the fantasy charts because on the every other at bat, he hits a homer run, I like the Phillies chances. Pitching is solid with Hamels and Brad Lidge to close things out. Comeback Player of the Year most certainly with 41 consecutive saves. I am a little worried about Myers and Moyer in games 2 and 3 but I think one of the two will win and Hamels will pitch game 4 and close it out.
American League Divisional Series’:
Red Sox defeat Angels—4 games
This may look like a difficult pick but for me, not really. The Angels are a very good ball club. They have one of the most talented closers in the game. Their starting pitching is not great but good enough to win a series against anyone else but the Red Sox. The Angels have the best record in baseball for one reason only; they are on the west coast. The majority of their games are played against the Ranger, A’s and Mariners. This is not apparent all the time but the past few years, the Angels have been the only stand out team from the west. Lackey has slowed down and is not going to be of any help in one start, maybe two if he pitches well. Santana will most likely get the one victory for the halos.
Rays defeat White Sox—3 games
We are going to see our only sweep of the divisional series’ when the Rays come into town and throw a beating down. This team has been building since the franchise was created. Even without Carl Crawford this team is a playoff contender. As I’ve stressed, their pitching is solid with Kazmir going in game 2. Longoria will win the Rookie of the Year Award as he has had a miraculous season for the Rays. Madden has been telling this squad from day one that they are good enough, now it is time for them to show us. Boy, they are going to put on a show. Look out Chicago! Wait, what?
The black out is more successful in Chicago. Winning in style over the Twins to take the Al Central ballot in the 1 game playoff. But despite the success in the end by the Sox, this postseason is not big enough for two teams out of Chicago. Bobby Jenks threw a ridiculous 9th and did so throughout the season but honestly, Jim Thome hits the game winner. The Sox looked good but making it by the skin of their teeth, the Rays are going to manhandle this team and show them that yes they made the postseason but this is for the big boys, kiddy time is over. And btw, why a black out Chicago? I thought your team is the WHITE Sox. The team didn’t even wear their black uniforms. Something doesn’t make sense.
NLCS:
Cubs defeat Phillies—6 games
Out of all the teams in the National League, the Cubs are the only team I see that is legitimate. It is all about the long run and who can last and play an extra 23 games if need be. They go deep with the Dodgers all the way to 5 games and will have to go deep against the Phillies as well and going back to pitching, that s where the Cubs have the leg up. Sorry Ryan Howard, but you still strike out too much and I would never draft you in fantasy and your team goes down to Carlos and the Cubies.
ALCS:
Rays over Red Sox—6 games
Once again it comes down to the AL East. All the competition in the American League comes out of the AL East so I’m not really sure why they don’t just say the best team from the Central and West make the playoffs but the top 2 teams from the East. That’s how it ends year in and year out and with the arsenal the Rays and Sox have, it is not changing anytime soon. The Rays won the regular season series with Boston and although Pedroia may win AL MVP, the rookie sensation will prevail. Look for Longoria and the Rays to be celebrating on their way home to await the Cubies.
World Series 2008:
Cubs defeat Rays—7 games
Break out the bottles of champagne and cover the lockers because it is party time for the Cubs. Don’t forget to go and get your ring sized up nicely because this only happens once every 100 years. Kind of reminds me of a lunar eclipse or something like that or seeing a comet pass by that only makes its way around the Earth once a century. So take plenty of pictures so you don’t miss out because your kids won’t even see the next WS won by the Cubs if this trend continues. Congrats Cubs fans. Enjoy!
World Series MVP: Kerry Wood
This year makes for a very tough decision and prediction as to who we will see facing off in the “Big Show.” It almost seems weird not having to throw around the idea of “Subway Series” or even the Red Sox/ Yankees match up in the ALCS. No drama this year. Or is there?
National League Divisional Series’:
Cubs defeat Dodgers—5 games
This is probably the most difficult series to pick at this point in time. Both of these clubs have a lot of weapons but the thing that is going to ruin it for the Dodgers is their pitching. I mean, Derek Lowe is your ace? The guy went 14-11 this season. Not the numbers you expect out of your ace on the staff. I am not knocking the Dodgers in general. They have a solid ball club. Picking up Manny only made them better talent wise. Ego wise, I am not sure if this was the move they wanted. A lot of young talent in Loney and Kemp but the overall performance of the team will not win a playoff series, especially against a team like Chicago. (I still love you Joe!!)
The Cubies are for real this year. I really like everything about this team. When you have a pitching staff with Rich Harden as your 4th starter going 10-2 with 181 K’s over 148 innings pitched, you are in good shape. Zambrano is on fire. He finally got the no-no, Ted Lilly pitches well anywhere but New York; Dempster went 17-6 with 187 K’s over 206.2 innings pitched after being the team’s closer last season. Kerry Wood having a year and a half in the pen coming off injury. Geovany Soto makes the All-Star Game in his rookie season and is the best hitting catcher in baseball. Soriano, Lee and Ramirez will lead offensively. This team is built for success, top down.
Phillies defeat Brewers —4 games
The Brewers gave it their all. C.C. Sabathia had an incredible second half for Milwaukee and this team has shown that they competitors. Again, postseason play comes down to pitching. I don’t care how many big bats you have in your lineup, if the pitching is off and does not keep your team in the game, there is no shot. CC is not a one man wrecking crew. Ben Sheets is done for the year and Yovani Gallarado is starting game 1. Kid has not even started a regular season game this year and he is starting game 1. What are you thinking Milwaukee? Stick a fork in them, they’re done. Ned Yost gets fired and Dale Sveum leads them to a WS? Don’t think so. Maybe next year Brew Crew.
Although I cannot stand Ryan Howard and the fact that he strikes out every at bat but still remains atop the fantasy charts because on the every other at bat, he hits a homer run, I like the Phillies chances. Pitching is solid with Hamels and Brad Lidge to close things out. Comeback Player of the Year most certainly with 41 consecutive saves. I am a little worried about Myers and Moyer in games 2 and 3 but I think one of the two will win and Hamels will pitch game 4 and close it out.
American League Divisional Series’:
Red Sox defeat Angels—4 games
This may look like a difficult pick but for me, not really. The Angels are a very good ball club. They have one of the most talented closers in the game. Their starting pitching is not great but good enough to win a series against anyone else but the Red Sox. The Angels have the best record in baseball for one reason only; they are on the west coast. The majority of their games are played against the Ranger, A’s and Mariners. This is not apparent all the time but the past few years, the Angels have been the only stand out team from the west. Lackey has slowed down and is not going to be of any help in one start, maybe two if he pitches well. Santana will most likely get the one victory for the halos.
Rays defeat White Sox—3 games
We are going to see our only sweep of the divisional series’ when the Rays come into town and throw a beating down. This team has been building since the franchise was created. Even without Carl Crawford this team is a playoff contender. As I’ve stressed, their pitching is solid with Kazmir going in game 2. Longoria will win the Rookie of the Year Award as he has had a miraculous season for the Rays. Madden has been telling this squad from day one that they are good enough, now it is time for them to show us. Boy, they are going to put on a show. Look out Chicago! Wait, what?
The black out is more successful in Chicago. Winning in style over the Twins to take the Al Central ballot in the 1 game playoff. But despite the success in the end by the Sox, this postseason is not big enough for two teams out of Chicago. Bobby Jenks threw a ridiculous 9th and did so throughout the season but honestly, Jim Thome hits the game winner. The Sox looked good but making it by the skin of their teeth, the Rays are going to manhandle this team and show them that yes they made the postseason but this is for the big boys, kiddy time is over. And btw, why a black out Chicago? I thought your team is the WHITE Sox. The team didn’t even wear their black uniforms. Something doesn’t make sense.
NLCS:
Cubs defeat Phillies—6 games
Out of all the teams in the National League, the Cubs are the only team I see that is legitimate. It is all about the long run and who can last and play an extra 23 games if need be. They go deep with the Dodgers all the way to 5 games and will have to go deep against the Phillies as well and going back to pitching, that s where the Cubs have the leg up. Sorry Ryan Howard, but you still strike out too much and I would never draft you in fantasy and your team goes down to Carlos and the Cubies.
ALCS:
Rays over Red Sox—6 games
Once again it comes down to the AL East. All the competition in the American League comes out of the AL East so I’m not really sure why they don’t just say the best team from the Central and West make the playoffs but the top 2 teams from the East. That’s how it ends year in and year out and with the arsenal the Rays and Sox have, it is not changing anytime soon. The Rays won the regular season series with Boston and although Pedroia may win AL MVP, the rookie sensation will prevail. Look for Longoria and the Rays to be celebrating on their way home to await the Cubies.
World Series 2008:
Cubs defeat Rays—7 games
Break out the bottles of champagne and cover the lockers because it is party time for the Cubs. Don’t forget to go and get your ring sized up nicely because this only happens once every 100 years. Kind of reminds me of a lunar eclipse or something like that or seeing a comet pass by that only makes its way around the Earth once a century. So take plenty of pictures so you don’t miss out because your kids won’t even see the next WS won by the Cubs if this trend continues. Congrats Cubs fans. Enjoy!
World Series MVP: Kerry Wood
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Welcome to All
Hello everyone and welcome to my newly created blog. I plan on posting on this as much as possible and I hope you will find the articles that I choose to write interesting and intriguing. I love to write about all sports and I plan on covering all of my bases. You can count on all professional sports, favoring the MLB, NFL and the NBA. I am not huge into the NHL but I have been working on it vigorously and hope to be able to write a few stories for all you hockey fans out there. I will also look deep into the NCAA world including the football and basketball realm of college sports. I am a huge Syracuse University sports fan and will be informing everyone about how we are a basketball town, with a football problem. This is true. So sit back, relax and check in with me every now and again to get your fix of the sporting world with the Hibbtown Beatdown Sports Report.
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