I had a so-so weekend last weekend with my picks going 2-2 and now 5-3 overall. Hopefully, I can pick it up and go undefeated this weekend. Here are my picks (and be sure to check out the latest episode of the Three and Out Podcast to hear more and hear banter on the picks).
The NFC Title game pits San Francisco vs. Atlanta. The top 2 teams in the regular season in the NFC square off in the Georgia Dome. The 49ers have a really tough team and are back in this game for the second year in the row. They have a lot of momentum but I think the Falcons are going to get over the hump and get into the Super Bowl.
Falcons 31 49ers 28
The AFC Title game is a rematch of last season's AFC Title game with Baltimore vs. New England. Simply put, go with Brady at home in the title game.
Patriots 37 Ravens 17
Showing posts with label playoffs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label playoffs. Show all posts
Friday, January 18, 2013
Friday, January 4, 2013
2013 Wild Card Weekend Predictions
It's playoff time so it's time for predictions (I also shared them on the Three and Out podcast so feel free to listen to some of the debate on them) for the Wild Card round.
The first game on Saturday is Cincinnati vs Houston. This is a rematch of last year's wild card game. Houston is slumping coming into this game and Cincy is on a roll. The Bengals still have not won a playoff game since 1990...and I don't see it happening here. I think Foster and Schaub will get their act together and will take care of business.
Texans 27 Bengals 17
The night game on Saturday is Minnesota vs Green Bay. This is the rubber match as they have played two games already this season with each team winning at home. Adrian Peterson has pretty much run roughshod over the Packers and honestly I don't think this will be any different. The key will be how second year QB Christian Ponder plays. If he has a good game, the Vikings can win. If not, they won't. I think it'll be a close game but I think the Pack will win in Lambeau
Packers 20 Vikings 17
The early game on Sunday is Indianapolis vs Baltimore. The old franchise from that city (Colts) verses the newer (Ravens). This could potentially be Ray Lewis last game. This is Andrew Luck's first postseason game. The Ravens aren't the Ravens of old. Their defense is older, injured and wore out. Yes Indy is young but I think they're strong enough (#Chuckstrong) to pull this one out.
Colts 24 Ravens 10
The late game on Sunday is Seattle vs Washington. Two dynamic rookie QBs in Russell Wilson & RG3. Seattle hasn't won a playoff road game since 1983. Washington has lost their last 2 postseason appearances, both to Seattle. I think RG3 not being healthy + Seattle's punishing defense is enough for the Seahawks to get the W
Seahawks 31 Redskins 14
The first game on Saturday is Cincinnati vs Houston. This is a rematch of last year's wild card game. Houston is slumping coming into this game and Cincy is on a roll. The Bengals still have not won a playoff game since 1990...and I don't see it happening here. I think Foster and Schaub will get their act together and will take care of business.
Texans 27 Bengals 17
The night game on Saturday is Minnesota vs Green Bay. This is the rubber match as they have played two games already this season with each team winning at home. Adrian Peterson has pretty much run roughshod over the Packers and honestly I don't think this will be any different. The key will be how second year QB Christian Ponder plays. If he has a good game, the Vikings can win. If not, they won't. I think it'll be a close game but I think the Pack will win in Lambeau
Packers 20 Vikings 17
The early game on Sunday is Indianapolis vs Baltimore. The old franchise from that city (Colts) verses the newer (Ravens). This could potentially be Ray Lewis last game. This is Andrew Luck's first postseason game. The Ravens aren't the Ravens of old. Their defense is older, injured and wore out. Yes Indy is young but I think they're strong enough (#Chuckstrong) to pull this one out.
Colts 24 Ravens 10
The late game on Sunday is Seattle vs Washington. Two dynamic rookie QBs in Russell Wilson & RG3. Seattle hasn't won a playoff road game since 1983. Washington has lost their last 2 postseason appearances, both to Seattle. I think RG3 not being healthy + Seattle's punishing defense is enough for the Seahawks to get the W
Seahawks 31 Redskins 14
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Random Sports Reflections
Some random sports reflections in late June...
*I didn't do a version of "If I were in charge of..." for NASCAR but if I did, the first thing I would do is keep Sprint Cup races on broadcast television. FOX has the first half of the season & and shows all the Sprint Cup races on their station. When June rolls around, there are barely any races on broadcast TV the rest of the season (TNT has about 6 races or so during June & early July & then ESPN picks up the telecasts showing barely any races on ABC) . Like the problem I have with college football, if you take the championship (Chase for the Cup) off of broadcast TV (only 1 or 2 of the Chase races are on ABC, final race isn't one of those), you're not going to get the most people watching it. I do know that you have to deal with football once fall rolls around but at the same time if it is compelling enough people will watch.
*Speaking of college football, it is looking more and more like a playoff system will be in place in about 2 years. Having been a proponent of a playoff system, this is a good first step forward with a 4 team playoff. I do think they should (and eventually will) expand it to at least 8 teams. But the fact that all indications are one will be put in place is a huge step forward.
*Even though the countries that I was pulling for have already been knocked out of Euro 2012, I've enjoyed watching the tournament so far. Any time you can watch great soccer in a major tournament format is worth it. Even though I'm "late" to the sport (didn't pick up really watching it until I was in college), I've grown to like and enjoy watching it. I've even grown to defending the sport against people taking shots at it. I guess that really means you like a sport when you do that. For those that are like eh about soccer, I would suggest watching the semis & the finals of Euro 2012 (and be sure to watch when the World Cup happens in 2 years).
*I didn't do a version of "If I were in charge of..." for NASCAR but if I did, the first thing I would do is keep Sprint Cup races on broadcast television. FOX has the first half of the season & and shows all the Sprint Cup races on their station. When June rolls around, there are barely any races on broadcast TV the rest of the season (TNT has about 6 races or so during June & early July & then ESPN picks up the telecasts showing barely any races on ABC) . Like the problem I have with college football, if you take the championship (Chase for the Cup) off of broadcast TV (only 1 or 2 of the Chase races are on ABC, final race isn't one of those), you're not going to get the most people watching it. I do know that you have to deal with football once fall rolls around but at the same time if it is compelling enough people will watch.
*Speaking of college football, it is looking more and more like a playoff system will be in place in about 2 years. Having been a proponent of a playoff system, this is a good first step forward with a 4 team playoff. I do think they should (and eventually will) expand it to at least 8 teams. But the fact that all indications are one will be put in place is a huge step forward.
*Even though the countries that I was pulling for have already been knocked out of Euro 2012, I've enjoyed watching the tournament so far. Any time you can watch great soccer in a major tournament format is worth it. Even though I'm "late" to the sport (didn't pick up really watching it until I was in college), I've grown to like and enjoy watching it. I've even grown to defending the sport against people taking shots at it. I guess that really means you like a sport when you do that. For those that are like eh about soccer, I would suggest watching the semis & the finals of Euro 2012 (and be sure to watch when the World Cup happens in 2 years).
Friday, May 11, 2012
If I Were in Charge Of.....College Football
It's time for another enjoyable installment of "If I Were in Charge Of". This week we look at college football. Growing up in the south, Saturdays in the fall was a given, watching college football. As I've gotten older I've got to see games in person. College football, like college basketball, has some good things but also have some things that would be beneficial to work on. So if I were in charge of college football.....
*Have a playoff. Out of all the changes in the various sports, this is one of the easiest calls to make. It looks like the powers that be agree with me (finally) and are looking to implement some kind of playoff in a few years. Their model would be 4 teams. My model would be more in line with nearly every other system in college football (1-AA, D-2, D-3, NAIA). I would have a 16 team playoff. The conference champions from the power conferences would get an automatic bid and there would be at large bids as well. The games would be played in early December until the "Championship Game which would then be played on New Years Day. For those who don't make the playoff, there will still be bowl games around but the championship will be decided on the field not by computers and voters deciding who will be in the title game.
*Cut and cap power conferences. One of the sad things that has come around in recent years is conference realignment. If I were in charge, some of that would be rectified. Missouri & Texas A&M (and also Nebraska) back to the Big 12. West Virginia, Syracuse and Pittsburgh, back to the Big East. I would put a cap on power conferences having 12 teams. That way each conference can still have a championship game but old rivalries can be kept. Out of all the changes I would make, this is the biggest pipe dream of them all but it would be cool. Tradition in some ways doesn't mean anything anymore in college football but it'd be cool to get back to it.
*For student athletes, half of all sales of their jerseys would go into a scholarship fund to help them pay for expenses outside of their athletic scholarship. Schools are making money off them, it would be nice if they could get something in return to help out with expenses since they can't get a job otherwise (this could be applied to all college athletes).
*The championship game will be televised on broadcast television, period. The last several years ESPN has shown the national title game on their network. While I like ESPN, they're not broadcast TV. All championship games (regardless of sport) should be on broadcast TV. One should be able to watch it and not have to pay to watch it.
*Unless it's an instate school, teams from power conferences cannot play schools that aren't in the same division (i.e. 1-A school playing a 1-AA or D-2). If there is going to be an emphasis on the regular season matters, can't have Alabama playing Georgia Southern.
Well that's this week's installment. What do you think? Leave your suggestions of what you'd change and be sure to check out all the other installments of this series.
*Have a playoff. Out of all the changes in the various sports, this is one of the easiest calls to make. It looks like the powers that be agree with me (finally) and are looking to implement some kind of playoff in a few years. Their model would be 4 teams. My model would be more in line with nearly every other system in college football (1-AA, D-2, D-3, NAIA). I would have a 16 team playoff. The conference champions from the power conferences would get an automatic bid and there would be at large bids as well. The games would be played in early December until the "Championship Game which would then be played on New Years Day. For those who don't make the playoff, there will still be bowl games around but the championship will be decided on the field not by computers and voters deciding who will be in the title game.
*Cut and cap power conferences. One of the sad things that has come around in recent years is conference realignment. If I were in charge, some of that would be rectified. Missouri & Texas A&M (and also Nebraska) back to the Big 12. West Virginia, Syracuse and Pittsburgh, back to the Big East. I would put a cap on power conferences having 12 teams. That way each conference can still have a championship game but old rivalries can be kept. Out of all the changes I would make, this is the biggest pipe dream of them all but it would be cool. Tradition in some ways doesn't mean anything anymore in college football but it'd be cool to get back to it.
*For student athletes, half of all sales of their jerseys would go into a scholarship fund to help them pay for expenses outside of their athletic scholarship. Schools are making money off them, it would be nice if they could get something in return to help out with expenses since they can't get a job otherwise (this could be applied to all college athletes).
*The championship game will be televised on broadcast television, period. The last several years ESPN has shown the national title game on their network. While I like ESPN, they're not broadcast TV. All championship games (regardless of sport) should be on broadcast TV. One should be able to watch it and not have to pay to watch it.
*Unless it's an instate school, teams from power conferences cannot play schools that aren't in the same division (i.e. 1-A school playing a 1-AA or D-2). If there is going to be an emphasis on the regular season matters, can't have Alabama playing Georgia Southern.
Well that's this week's installment. What do you think? Leave your suggestions of what you'd change and be sure to check out all the other installments of this series.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
If I Were In Charge Of....MLB
It's time for another installment for "If I Were In Charge Of". This week's installment looks at Major League Baseball. This is a league that has definitely had its ups and downs and some really stupid moves along with some smart moves. I do believe there are still a lot of improvements that can be made to "America's Pasttime" to make it even better. So here are some changes I would make if I were in charge of MLB....
*Institute a hard salary cap and have a minimum spending level. One thing the NFL (which I'll get to in a later post) totally gets right is this aspect. They have a hard salary cap & along with that have a minimum spending level. One of the most ridiculous aspects of baseball is how teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, Phillies and such can have players on their team who's salary matches several teams' total salaries. In a way to shorten the gulf between the big market & small market teams institute a hard salary cap. That way the same four teams can't be the only ones going after the top free agents. Gives a more level playing field for the rest of the teams. At the same time, there is a minimum spending level that all teams have to reach. It keeps the stingy owners from not paying their players (I'm looking at you Dan Glass). I would have one exception to the hard cap and that's implementing a type of "Larry Bird rule". In the NBA, there is a salary cap exception for certain players to that teams can re-sign their own players. In this instance, each team will have one exception to for a superstar player to re-sign to make them a "_______ for life" type player. That way fans can identify with at least one superstar for each of the teams in MLB.
*Get rid of home field advantage from the All-Star Game. I always thought that was an overreaction to what happened in the All-Star Game that ended in a tie. Honestly that game shouldn't have ended in a tie, they should've kept playing it until it was over but Bud Selig goofed and then tried to fix the goof and now we have "This Time It Counts". I would either go back to alternating home field between National & American Leagues (even years it's American, odd years it's National) or best record gets home field. That seems more fair than what is involved now.
*Have a consistent strike zone across the board. Case in point, I watched part of the Red Sox/Rays game yesterday and at the end of the game there was literally an at-bat where none of the pitches were in the strike zone & the batter did not swing & the umpire called all strikes. That's ridiculous. There needs to be a consistent strike zone across the board. There will always be judgment calls in sports I understand but when it's understood what a strike zone should be, then call it that way. Different umpires shouldn't have different strike zones.
*Bring back day/night doubleheaders & day game playoff games. Some of this is definitely old school I know but there's nothing wrong with a little old school now and then. It'd be cool to have maybe weekend series where there is a day/night doubleheader (maybe on a Friday or Saturday) so that fans could really enjoy a day at the ballpark. Along with that, have more day game playoff games. It's detrimental to the sport when you have playoff games that have such a late start at night. Having day games (as in like mid afternoon) I think would help draw in more kids to the sport.
*Have "Autograph Days" during each homestand. Each team will have designated "Autograph Days" where they will have players set aside time pregame where they will sign autographs for fans. There will be designated players for each homestand signing. That way fans can have more opportunities to interact with players and players can build more rapport with the fans.
Feel free to post in the comments what changes you would make if you were in charge of MLB and go back and check out previous posts and comment there.
*Institute a hard salary cap and have a minimum spending level. One thing the NFL (which I'll get to in a later post) totally gets right is this aspect. They have a hard salary cap & along with that have a minimum spending level. One of the most ridiculous aspects of baseball is how teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, Phillies and such can have players on their team who's salary matches several teams' total salaries. In a way to shorten the gulf between the big market & small market teams institute a hard salary cap. That way the same four teams can't be the only ones going after the top free agents. Gives a more level playing field for the rest of the teams. At the same time, there is a minimum spending level that all teams have to reach. It keeps the stingy owners from not paying their players (I'm looking at you Dan Glass). I would have one exception to the hard cap and that's implementing a type of "Larry Bird rule". In the NBA, there is a salary cap exception for certain players to that teams can re-sign their own players. In this instance, each team will have one exception to for a superstar player to re-sign to make them a "_______ for life" type player. That way fans can identify with at least one superstar for each of the teams in MLB.
*Get rid of home field advantage from the All-Star Game. I always thought that was an overreaction to what happened in the All-Star Game that ended in a tie. Honestly that game shouldn't have ended in a tie, they should've kept playing it until it was over but Bud Selig goofed and then tried to fix the goof and now we have "This Time It Counts". I would either go back to alternating home field between National & American Leagues (even years it's American, odd years it's National) or best record gets home field. That seems more fair than what is involved now.
*Have a consistent strike zone across the board. Case in point, I watched part of the Red Sox/Rays game yesterday and at the end of the game there was literally an at-bat where none of the pitches were in the strike zone & the batter did not swing & the umpire called all strikes. That's ridiculous. There needs to be a consistent strike zone across the board. There will always be judgment calls in sports I understand but when it's understood what a strike zone should be, then call it that way. Different umpires shouldn't have different strike zones.
*Bring back day/night doubleheaders & day game playoff games. Some of this is definitely old school I know but there's nothing wrong with a little old school now and then. It'd be cool to have maybe weekend series where there is a day/night doubleheader (maybe on a Friday or Saturday) so that fans could really enjoy a day at the ballpark. Along with that, have more day game playoff games. It's detrimental to the sport when you have playoff games that have such a late start at night. Having day games (as in like mid afternoon) I think would help draw in more kids to the sport.
*Have "Autograph Days" during each homestand. Each team will have designated "Autograph Days" where they will have players set aside time pregame where they will sign autographs for fans. There will be designated players for each homestand signing. That way fans can have more opportunities to interact with players and players can build more rapport with the fans.
Feel free to post in the comments what changes you would make if you were in charge of MLB and go back and check out previous posts and comment there.
Friday, January 20, 2012
2012 Conference Championship Picks
Well after a great 3-1 Wild Card round predictions, my divisional round picks fell flat on their face. I went 1-3...but in my defense I didn't see the Saints turning the ball over 5 times & not double covering the Niners' best receiver (Vernon Davis), nor did I see the Texans muff a punt that swung momentum early in the game & the Texans couldn't ever recover, nor did I see the Packers receivers dropping so many passes...for what it's worth (Ironically, last year I was the same record after the divisional round 4-4).
So now the conference championship games. To be honest, both games are eh to me but it is what it is. There are two scenarios that I'd be fine with and there are two that would make for an ugh Super Bowl. You can probably guess which two would make for an ugh Super Bowl (just think Super Bowl XXXV). Okay onto my picks (as always the scores don't really matter just the picks).
The first conference title game is the AFC Championship game between the Baltimore Ravens vs the New England Patriots. Let's be honest, is there any doubt who I'm picking in this game? But for the sake of a semi thorough review, here goes. The Ravens are coming off a victory against the Texans in the divisional round. Their defense is playing well and when they utilize the run game with Ray Rice, they are a good team. However, I'm not sold on that secondary (aside from Ed Reed) and I don't think that Joe Flacco is reliable in the big game or on the road (which this game is both a big game and on the road). The Patriots are coming off a beat down of the Broncos. Yes the Patriots have one of the worst defenses statistically in the league this year and they didn't beat a team with a winning record in the regular season. But the Pats still have Tom Brady, they still have the offensive weapons. On Sunday it will be the Pats' strength (offense) vs. the Ravens' strength (defense). What puts it over the edge? Two guys on the Patriots (Wes Welker & Stephen Gostkowski) were on my fantasy football team that won the championship, Ravens had 0. Advantage Patriots
Patriots 31 Ravens 17
The late game is the NFC Championship game between the New York Giants vs the San Francisco 49ers. To be honest, probably most NFL fans would've rather saw the Saints and Packers in this game but this is the game we've got. The Giants are coming off a victory against the defending Super Bowl champs while the Niners are coming off a victory over the Saints. A lot of people are comparing this Giants team to the one that won the Super Bowl in February 08. I think the better comparison was one I saw earlier this week with this team and the Packers team of last year. They have a great pass rush and the passing game is right up there. Rushing has been kind of inconsistent but it's kinda coming into form now. They are a team that seems to be hot at the right time but it also could be they're catching teams at the right time. On the other side, the 49ers have had a stingy defense and a great running game. Jim Harbaugh, in his first year as the Niners head coach, has turned this franchise around and have put them in a position to go to the Super Bowl since the mid 90s. Alex Smith has looked more like the #1 pick this season. However, this team is the more inexperienced team when it comes to the playoffs and their receivers dropped a lot of passes last week, something they cannot afford to do this week. This one is very tough to pick. Both teams have a legit shot of winning. Giants have the experience but the 49ers are at home. 49ers have a tough defense but Eli Manning has become one of the elite QBs in the league. Looking at my championship fantasy football team roster, I have one player from each team (Alex Smith vs. Ahmad Bradshaw). Deciding factor: Alex Smith was on my bench, Ahmad Bradshaw was a starter. Going with the Giants
Giants 20 49ers 13
So now the conference championship games. To be honest, both games are eh to me but it is what it is. There are two scenarios that I'd be fine with and there are two that would make for an ugh Super Bowl. You can probably guess which two would make for an ugh Super Bowl (just think Super Bowl XXXV). Okay onto my picks (as always the scores don't really matter just the picks).
The first conference title game is the AFC Championship game between the Baltimore Ravens vs the New England Patriots. Let's be honest, is there any doubt who I'm picking in this game? But for the sake of a semi thorough review, here goes. The Ravens are coming off a victory against the Texans in the divisional round. Their defense is playing well and when they utilize the run game with Ray Rice, they are a good team. However, I'm not sold on that secondary (aside from Ed Reed) and I don't think that Joe Flacco is reliable in the big game or on the road (which this game is both a big game and on the road). The Patriots are coming off a beat down of the Broncos. Yes the Patriots have one of the worst defenses statistically in the league this year and they didn't beat a team with a winning record in the regular season. But the Pats still have Tom Brady, they still have the offensive weapons. On Sunday it will be the Pats' strength (offense) vs. the Ravens' strength (defense). What puts it over the edge? Two guys on the Patriots (Wes Welker & Stephen Gostkowski) were on my fantasy football team that won the championship, Ravens had 0. Advantage Patriots
Patriots 31 Ravens 17
The late game is the NFC Championship game between the New York Giants vs the San Francisco 49ers. To be honest, probably most NFL fans would've rather saw the Saints and Packers in this game but this is the game we've got. The Giants are coming off a victory against the defending Super Bowl champs while the Niners are coming off a victory over the Saints. A lot of people are comparing this Giants team to the one that won the Super Bowl in February 08. I think the better comparison was one I saw earlier this week with this team and the Packers team of last year. They have a great pass rush and the passing game is right up there. Rushing has been kind of inconsistent but it's kinda coming into form now. They are a team that seems to be hot at the right time but it also could be they're catching teams at the right time. On the other side, the 49ers have had a stingy defense and a great running game. Jim Harbaugh, in his first year as the Niners head coach, has turned this franchise around and have put them in a position to go to the Super Bowl since the mid 90s. Alex Smith has looked more like the #1 pick this season. However, this team is the more inexperienced team when it comes to the playoffs and their receivers dropped a lot of passes last week, something they cannot afford to do this week. This one is very tough to pick. Both teams have a legit shot of winning. Giants have the experience but the 49ers are at home. 49ers have a tough defense but Eli Manning has become one of the elite QBs in the league. Looking at my championship fantasy football team roster, I have one player from each team (Alex Smith vs. Ahmad Bradshaw). Deciding factor: Alex Smith was on my bench, Ahmad Bradshaw was a starter. Going with the Giants
Giants 20 49ers 13
Friday, January 13, 2012
2012 Divisional Round Predictions
Well, I didn't do too bad with my Wild Card predictions going 3-1 (missed on Atlanta but then again they didn't show up last week). This weekend's games have some easy to root for teams for the most part. Lets see if I can keep the winning tradition going (as always the scores don't really matter just the picks).
The first game of the weekend is New Orleans vs San Francisco. The Niners are in the playoffs for the first time in nearly a decade. They have a stifling defense & a potential coach of the year in Jim Harbaugh. The Saints are coming off a win against Detroit in the Wild Card round. This is a tough matchup. The Saints aren't the best road team in the world but they do have playoff experience and a top QB in Drew Brees. The Niners do have a solid running game in Frank Gore and the aforementioned tough D. Out of the 4 matchups, this will be the toughest to pick. However, despite the road concerns, I'm taking the Saints. Their defense will give Alex Smith fits. I think for another week Saints fans can chant "Who Dat?"
Saints 27 49ers 17
The night game on Saturday is Denver vs New England. Brady vs. Tebow II. A lot has been said the first time around so there really isn't more that needs to be said. Patriots won the first game though the Broncos put up a great fight in that game. That time it was in Denver. This time it's in New England. Tebow had a great game last week against the Steelers. And New England hasn't won a playoff game since the 2007 season. Then again, if we go by history the division winner that no one expected to win in WC round lost the next round. Think this time will be no exception. Close one but think it'll be the Pats again.
Patriots 34 Broncos 30
The early Sunday game features Houston vs Baltimore. Let's face it. I don't like Baltimore and will not pick them to win. Even with a 3rd string QB and little playoff experience, Houston does have a tough running game & their defense is top notch. Plus I don't think Flacco is that great a QB. Texans keep hope alive in Houston
Texans 24 Ravens 10
The final game features the NY Giants vs Green Bay. They matched up earlier in the year with the Packers pulling out the victory in dramatic fashion. The Giants are coming off a win against the Falcons and many are comparing them to the team that won the Super Bowl in the 2007 season. Eh, I'm not really seeing it. They are still inconsistent and their secondary is weak. Aaron Rodgers can and will exploit it. Packers keep up the chance for a repeat
Packers 37 Giants 27
The first game of the weekend is New Orleans vs San Francisco. The Niners are in the playoffs for the first time in nearly a decade. They have a stifling defense & a potential coach of the year in Jim Harbaugh. The Saints are coming off a win against Detroit in the Wild Card round. This is a tough matchup. The Saints aren't the best road team in the world but they do have playoff experience and a top QB in Drew Brees. The Niners do have a solid running game in Frank Gore and the aforementioned tough D. Out of the 4 matchups, this will be the toughest to pick. However, despite the road concerns, I'm taking the Saints. Their defense will give Alex Smith fits. I think for another week Saints fans can chant "Who Dat?"
Saints 27 49ers 17
The night game on Saturday is Denver vs New England. Brady vs. Tebow II. A lot has been said the first time around so there really isn't more that needs to be said. Patriots won the first game though the Broncos put up a great fight in that game. That time it was in Denver. This time it's in New England. Tebow had a great game last week against the Steelers. And New England hasn't won a playoff game since the 2007 season. Then again, if we go by history the division winner that no one expected to win in WC round lost the next round. Think this time will be no exception. Close one but think it'll be the Pats again.
Patriots 34 Broncos 30
The early Sunday game features Houston vs Baltimore. Let's face it. I don't like Baltimore and will not pick them to win. Even with a 3rd string QB and little playoff experience, Houston does have a tough running game & their defense is top notch. Plus I don't think Flacco is that great a QB. Texans keep hope alive in Houston
Texans 24 Ravens 10
The final game features the NY Giants vs Green Bay. They matched up earlier in the year with the Packers pulling out the victory in dramatic fashion. The Giants are coming off a win against the Falcons and many are comparing them to the team that won the Super Bowl in the 2007 season. Eh, I'm not really seeing it. They are still inconsistent and their secondary is weak. Aaron Rodgers can and will exploit it. Packers keep up the chance for a repeat
Packers 37 Giants 27
Monday, January 2, 2012
2012 Wild Card Weekend Predictions
2012 is here and the first post of 2012 is predictions for the Wild Card round of the NFL playoffs. Lots of intriguing matchups this first week of the playoffs and will be tough to pick.
(FYI, this is my opinion, the main thing is who I'm picking & not the score...)
The first game on Saturday will see Cincinnati vs Houston. This is a rematch of a regular season game in week 14 which saw Houston win at Cincy. This time the game will be in Houston. This is the first time the Texans have reached the playoffs & this is the third time for Cincy since 1990 (which was the last time they won a playoff game). The Texans are essentially on their 3rd string QB as they lost their top two to injury during the season. Cincy has a rookie QB in Andy Dalton starting for them. Though Houston had a stumble towards the end of the regular season, I think their defense will be enough to get them through this round and get their first ever playoff win.
Texans 27 Bengals 17
The second game on Saturday will see Detroit vs New Orleans. This game is also a rematch of a regular season game in week 13 in which New Orleans won at home. For Detroit, this is the first time they've been in the playoffs since 1999. New Orleans is two years removed from their Super Bowl win. The Lions have an explosive passing offense but not much of a running game. The Saints offense are clicking on all cylinders & QB Drew Brees is an MVP candidate. Like the Texans/Bengals matchup, don't think Lions will get revenge here. Saints will roll.
Saints 37 Lions 24
The first Sunday game is Atlanta vs the New York Giants. Atlanta is in the playoffs in consecutive seasons for the first time in their history and a year removed from being the #1 seed in the NFC. The Giants are in the playoffs since 2008 season, the year after they won the Super Bowl. Some are saying this Giants team is like the Super Bowl team of 2007. I'm not so sure. I think this Falcons team is better than last year's team and I think could be "sleeper" team to make the Super Bowl. It'll be close but I think Matty Ice (Matt Ryan) will get his first playoff win.
Falcons 27 Giants 20
The final Wild Card game is Pittsburgh vs Denver. Big Ben vs Timmy Tebow. This is probably the matchup that everybody "knows" how it's going to be. Pittsburgh did a good job in bucking the trend of Super Bowl losers the previous year not making the playoff the next year. Since 2000 only Tennessee in 2000, Seattle in 2006 and Indianapolis in 2009 and now Pittsburgh pulled it off. In the previous 3 instances, only the Seahawks won a playoff game that next playoff season (the WC game against Cowboys with the botched FG attempt). The Steelers come into this game with a hurt Big Ben (who should play) and a now hurt RB Rashard Mendenhall (who is out for the playoffs) but have a very tough defense. The Broncos are in the playoffs for the first time since 2005 and did so by "backing" into the playoffs. It has been a roller coaster year with Tebow at the helm after a 1-4 start. They had a 7-1 run then lost their last 3. A lot (and I mean a lot) of people are bashing Tebow (rightly so or not). I don't think I've ever seen a player who was a "nice guy" who gets critiqued so heavily. Although I'm not happy that Tebow helped contribute to the Titans not making the playoffs (with the crazy scenarios) I'm tired of so many people bashing him. Most everybody is picking the Steelers to demolish Denver. But this game is in Mile High and don't know how mobile Big Ben will be. This game has a feeling of last season's Saints/Seahawks game. We all know how that game turned out. I think for at least one more time this season, it'll be Tebow Time
Broncos 20 Steelers 17
(FYI, this is my opinion, the main thing is who I'm picking & not the score...)
The first game on Saturday will see Cincinnati vs Houston. This is a rematch of a regular season game in week 14 which saw Houston win at Cincy. This time the game will be in Houston. This is the first time the Texans have reached the playoffs & this is the third time for Cincy since 1990 (which was the last time they won a playoff game). The Texans are essentially on their 3rd string QB as they lost their top two to injury during the season. Cincy has a rookie QB in Andy Dalton starting for them. Though Houston had a stumble towards the end of the regular season, I think their defense will be enough to get them through this round and get their first ever playoff win.
Texans 27 Bengals 17
The second game on Saturday will see Detroit vs New Orleans. This game is also a rematch of a regular season game in week 13 in which New Orleans won at home. For Detroit, this is the first time they've been in the playoffs since 1999. New Orleans is two years removed from their Super Bowl win. The Lions have an explosive passing offense but not much of a running game. The Saints offense are clicking on all cylinders & QB Drew Brees is an MVP candidate. Like the Texans/Bengals matchup, don't think Lions will get revenge here. Saints will roll.
Saints 37 Lions 24
The first Sunday game is Atlanta vs the New York Giants. Atlanta is in the playoffs in consecutive seasons for the first time in their history and a year removed from being the #1 seed in the NFC. The Giants are in the playoffs since 2008 season, the year after they won the Super Bowl. Some are saying this Giants team is like the Super Bowl team of 2007. I'm not so sure. I think this Falcons team is better than last year's team and I think could be "sleeper" team to make the Super Bowl. It'll be close but I think Matty Ice (Matt Ryan) will get his first playoff win.
Falcons 27 Giants 20
The final Wild Card game is Pittsburgh vs Denver. Big Ben vs Timmy Tebow. This is probably the matchup that everybody "knows" how it's going to be. Pittsburgh did a good job in bucking the trend of Super Bowl losers the previous year not making the playoff the next year. Since 2000 only Tennessee in 2000, Seattle in 2006 and Indianapolis in 2009 and now Pittsburgh pulled it off. In the previous 3 instances, only the Seahawks won a playoff game that next playoff season (the WC game against Cowboys with the botched FG attempt). The Steelers come into this game with a hurt Big Ben (who should play) and a now hurt RB Rashard Mendenhall (who is out for the playoffs) but have a very tough defense. The Broncos are in the playoffs for the first time since 2005 and did so by "backing" into the playoffs. It has been a roller coaster year with Tebow at the helm after a 1-4 start. They had a 7-1 run then lost their last 3. A lot (and I mean a lot) of people are bashing Tebow (rightly so or not). I don't think I've ever seen a player who was a "nice guy" who gets critiqued so heavily. Although I'm not happy that Tebow helped contribute to the Titans not making the playoffs (with the crazy scenarios) I'm tired of so many people bashing him. Most everybody is picking the Steelers to demolish Denver. But this game is in Mile High and don't know how mobile Big Ben will be. This game has a feeling of last season's Saints/Seahawks game. We all know how that game turned out. I think for at least one more time this season, it'll be Tebow Time
Broncos 20 Steelers 17
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Random Sports Reflections
Lot to talk about (hopefully I'll get back into a regular blogging routine in 2012) so it's bullet point time:
*I can't say that I'm disappointed about the BCS Championship Game, because it being the BCS, one should not be surprised. I've said it before & I'll say it again, if every level of football except Division 1 football can have a playoff and do well with it, why not them too? I had several discussions on facebook about it, almost to the point that I got sick of it. I don't fault my friends who are Alabama fans who are happy about being in the national championship game but the BCS is a messed up system. Would a playoff be perfect? No, but at least a championship would be decided on the field and not by computers and voters. Maybe someday there will be one but we'll see.
*Lots of Tim Tebow talk going around. It seems every week (or even every day) there is new Tebow talk. In a lot of ways it reminds me of Brett Favre and the media attention he got in the past few years. It seems a lot of writers and media come up with a story, slap Tim Tebow's name on it and boom. Given the 24/7 nature of news (sports or general), it's a given. But there comes a point when a lot of it is just rehashed news (he's not seen as the QB of the future, his faith being mocked, etc) pointing back at events that were a month or more ago. It will be interesting to see how long this media frenzy will hold up. When the offseason comes, will the Tebow talk still continue? Should be interesting.
*Albert Pujols signed with the Anaheim Angels (still refuse to call them the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim) this morning. I can't fault him for signing the 10 year 250+ million dollar contract. I just fault him for signing with the Angels, mainly because they're a rival of the Mariners & it means for the next 10 years (barring him waiving the no-trade clause) I'll have to root against him. Well I guess there's Tim Tebow to root for.
*I can't say that I'm disappointed about the BCS Championship Game, because it being the BCS, one should not be surprised. I've said it before & I'll say it again, if every level of football except Division 1 football can have a playoff and do well with it, why not them too? I had several discussions on facebook about it, almost to the point that I got sick of it. I don't fault my friends who are Alabama fans who are happy about being in the national championship game but the BCS is a messed up system. Would a playoff be perfect? No, but at least a championship would be decided on the field and not by computers and voters. Maybe someday there will be one but we'll see.
*Lots of Tim Tebow talk going around. It seems every week (or even every day) there is new Tebow talk. In a lot of ways it reminds me of Brett Favre and the media attention he got in the past few years. It seems a lot of writers and media come up with a story, slap Tim Tebow's name on it and boom. Given the 24/7 nature of news (sports or general), it's a given. But there comes a point when a lot of it is just rehashed news (he's not seen as the QB of the future, his faith being mocked, etc) pointing back at events that were a month or more ago. It will be interesting to see how long this media frenzy will hold up. When the offseason comes, will the Tebow talk still continue? Should be interesting.
*Albert Pujols signed with the Anaheim Angels (still refuse to call them the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim) this morning. I can't fault him for signing the 10 year 250+ million dollar contract. I just fault him for signing with the Angels, mainly because they're a rival of the Mariners & it means for the next 10 years (barring him waiving the no-trade clause) I'll have to root against him. Well I guess there's Tim Tebow to root for.
Friday, January 21, 2011
2011 Conference Championship Picks
It's time to make my picks for the AFC & NFC Championship Games. It's funny so far I've been a combined .500 so far this year in the playoff (4-4). The odds are that means I'll pick one right and one wrong....or I could pick both correct or get both wrong. So we'll see...
The first game is the NFC Championship game between the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears. These two long time rivals are facing each other only for the second time in the playoffs (the last time was in 1941). These two split the season series matchup. The Bears beat the Packers in the first matchup while the Packers won in the last week of the season to get into the playoffs.
After early season bumps, both teams turned it on later in the season. The Bears found somewhat of a balance between pass and run and their defense is as strong as it always is. The Packers fought through injuries to key players and are riding a hot streak into and through the playoffs.
The two key questions are the following: Can the Bears trust Jay Cutler? Can the Packers win three road playoff games?
In thinking through who to pick in this game, two factors play into it. One, the Bears beat the Seahawks, one of the two teams I root for. Two, I had Aaron Rodgers on my fantasy football team (the one that has won 4 championships in 10 years). With those two factors in play, I picking the Packers to win.
Packers 17 Bears 13
The late game is the AFC Championship game between the New York Jets and Pittsburgh. They faced each other in the regular season with the Jets getting the win.
The Jets are the definition of up and down. They have the talent but they also squander it on numerous occasions. The Steelers overcame the loss of Big Ben early to end up the #2 seed. Both teams have really good defenses. Both teams have offenses that can make plays.
This matchup I really don't care about at all. I don't really like either team. But I do respect Pittsburgh's coach Mike Tomlin. And I don't respect the way the Jets talk and act. If I have to pick between these two, I'm going with the Steelers.
Steelers 24 Jets 10
The first game is the NFC Championship game between the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears. These two long time rivals are facing each other only for the second time in the playoffs (the last time was in 1941). These two split the season series matchup. The Bears beat the Packers in the first matchup while the Packers won in the last week of the season to get into the playoffs.
After early season bumps, both teams turned it on later in the season. The Bears found somewhat of a balance between pass and run and their defense is as strong as it always is. The Packers fought through injuries to key players and are riding a hot streak into and through the playoffs.
The two key questions are the following: Can the Bears trust Jay Cutler? Can the Packers win three road playoff games?
In thinking through who to pick in this game, two factors play into it. One, the Bears beat the Seahawks, one of the two teams I root for. Two, I had Aaron Rodgers on my fantasy football team (the one that has won 4 championships in 10 years). With those two factors in play, I picking the Packers to win.
Packers 17 Bears 13
The late game is the AFC Championship game between the New York Jets and Pittsburgh. They faced each other in the regular season with the Jets getting the win.
The Jets are the definition of up and down. They have the talent but they also squander it on numerous occasions. The Steelers overcame the loss of Big Ben early to end up the #2 seed. Both teams have really good defenses. Both teams have offenses that can make plays.
This matchup I really don't care about at all. I don't really like either team. But I do respect Pittsburgh's coach Mike Tomlin. And I don't respect the way the Jets talk and act. If I have to pick between these two, I'm going with the Steelers.
Steelers 24 Jets 10
Friday, January 14, 2011
2011 Divisional Round Predictions
It's time for more predictions, the Divisional Round is here and last week I went 2-2. Ironically it was the first game and the last game of the weekend that I got correctly. This weekend has some intriguing matchups with some hard decisions as to who I will pick. So here's the picks:
The first matchup of the weekend is Baltimore vs. Pittsburgh. If there was any matchup this weekend that I didn't like either team, this would be it. I kind of wish this was an instance where it was like pro wrestling and there was a double disqualification and both don't advance. However, that's not the case. Baltimore came off a win against Kansas City. Pittsburgh enjoyed the bye week off and got some rest to help with some of their injuries. A key stat is that Baltimore's coach John Harbaugh has never beaten Pittsburgh when Ben Roethilsberger starts for the Steelers....he's starting for the Steelers.
Steelers 24 Ravens 17
The primetime game on Saturday is Green Bay vs. Atlanta. They met in the regular season in one of the marquee games of the year and the Falcons came out on top. Aaron Rodgers got his first playoff win last weekend on the road against Philly and it was the first time Green Bay had won a road playoff game since the late 90s. Matt Ryan has lost only two times as a starter at the Georgia Dome (20-2) however, he lost his previous playoff game in a shootout against Kurt Warner and the Atlanta Falcons a couple of years ago. This will probably be the game of the weekend. I like both teams. I could see either of these teams in the Super Bowl. But given propensity to who I'm picking in the next game. I'm going to say that Rodgers and Green Bay get revenge and eek out a victory.
Packers 27 Falcons 24
The early Sunday game features Seattle vs. Chicago. Last week Seattle won in a shootout over the defending champs New Orleans. They put together one of their best games of the season. The running game came alive and QB Matt Hasselbeck channeled the 2005 version and had a big game. Now they travel to Chicago to take on the Bears. These two teams met earlier in the year and Seattle won that matchup. The Bears are a different team but so are the Seahawks. One key stat is that first time starters in the playoffs since 2003 are 5-19. On top of that, this is the first postseason game in the career of Jay Cutler, college or pro. And then a thought, prior to the playoffs starting I said that these Seahawks remind me of the 08 Cardinals, inconsistent in the regular season, turn it on at the end and make a deep playoff run. Last week didn't do anything to deter me from that thought. I'm going homer and picking the Hawks.
Seahawks 27 Bears 17
The final game of the divisional round is between the NY Jets and New England. This has become of the big rivalries in the NFL with both sides spouting off at the mouth. I know there are a lot of people who can't stand New England. I don't mind them that much. I used to like them but after the 2009 game against the Titans when Belicheck ran up the score I don't really like them anymore. But, I'm really not a fan of the Jets. So simply put, I'd like to see what happened the last time these two teams met happen again. Pats roll.
Patriots 42 Jets 17
So there you have it, I'm thinking a Packers/Seahawks NFC Championship game and a Steelers/Patriots AFC Championship game. So lets see if I end up right or not.
The first matchup of the weekend is Baltimore vs. Pittsburgh. If there was any matchup this weekend that I didn't like either team, this would be it. I kind of wish this was an instance where it was like pro wrestling and there was a double disqualification and both don't advance. However, that's not the case. Baltimore came off a win against Kansas City. Pittsburgh enjoyed the bye week off and got some rest to help with some of their injuries. A key stat is that Baltimore's coach John Harbaugh has never beaten Pittsburgh when Ben Roethilsberger starts for the Steelers....he's starting for the Steelers.
Steelers 24 Ravens 17
The primetime game on Saturday is Green Bay vs. Atlanta. They met in the regular season in one of the marquee games of the year and the Falcons came out on top. Aaron Rodgers got his first playoff win last weekend on the road against Philly and it was the first time Green Bay had won a road playoff game since the late 90s. Matt Ryan has lost only two times as a starter at the Georgia Dome (20-2) however, he lost his previous playoff game in a shootout against Kurt Warner and the Atlanta Falcons a couple of years ago. This will probably be the game of the weekend. I like both teams. I could see either of these teams in the Super Bowl. But given propensity to who I'm picking in the next game. I'm going to say that Rodgers and Green Bay get revenge and eek out a victory.
Packers 27 Falcons 24
The early Sunday game features Seattle vs. Chicago. Last week Seattle won in a shootout over the defending champs New Orleans. They put together one of their best games of the season. The running game came alive and QB Matt Hasselbeck channeled the 2005 version and had a big game. Now they travel to Chicago to take on the Bears. These two teams met earlier in the year and Seattle won that matchup. The Bears are a different team but so are the Seahawks. One key stat is that first time starters in the playoffs since 2003 are 5-19. On top of that, this is the first postseason game in the career of Jay Cutler, college or pro. And then a thought, prior to the playoffs starting I said that these Seahawks remind me of the 08 Cardinals, inconsistent in the regular season, turn it on at the end and make a deep playoff run. Last week didn't do anything to deter me from that thought. I'm going homer and picking the Hawks.
Seahawks 27 Bears 17
The final game of the divisional round is between the NY Jets and New England. This has become of the big rivalries in the NFL with both sides spouting off at the mouth. I know there are a lot of people who can't stand New England. I don't mind them that much. I used to like them but after the 2009 game against the Titans when Belicheck ran up the score I don't really like them anymore. But, I'm really not a fan of the Jets. So simply put, I'd like to see what happened the last time these two teams met happen again. Pats roll.
Patriots 42 Jets 17
So there you have it, I'm thinking a Packers/Seahawks NFC Championship game and a Steelers/Patriots AFC Championship game. So lets see if I end up right or not.
Friday, January 7, 2011
2011 Wild Card Weekend Predictions
The first entry in 2011 is predictions for the start of the 2011 NFL playoffs, Wild Card Weekend. After an up and down season, the playoffs are here and should be interesting.
(FYI, this is my opinion, the main thing is who I'm picking & not the score...)
On Saturday the first game is the Saints verses the Seahawks. The defending Super Bowl champs vs a division winner that finished with a losing record at 7-9. The Saints are banged up but they do have a lot of talent. The Seahawks have the underdog role and Qwest Field advantage. I like the Saints, I really do. But I have to go with the Seahawks and the upset.
Seahawks 20 Saints 17
The second game on Saturday is the Jets verses the Colts. The Jets have been a hard team to figure out. They have beaten top teams like the Patriots and Steelers but have lost some unexplainable games. The Colts made the playoffs on the last week and have overcome a lot of injuries. I think Peyton will prevail in this matchup.
Colts 27 Jets 17
The first game on Sunday is the Ravens verses the Chiefs. The Ravens aren't the Ravens of previous years but they are annoyingly tough. The Chiefs are a surprise division winner and are hosting their first playoff game since 2003. I don't like the Ravens at all so it makes it easier to make this pick. My Kansas City friends will be happy as I think the Chiefs will roll.
Chiefs 31 Ravens 10
The final game is the Packers verses the Eagles. This is probably the most intriguing matchup of the weekend. The Packers are probably the most dangerous team in that you don't know what to expect. They are one of those teams that could make a deep run. The Eagles have some explosive offensive players including the should be Comeback Player of the Year Michael Vick. This one is a tough one to pick. I'm going with the Packers in this one but it'll be close.
Packers 34 Eagles 31
(FYI, this is my opinion, the main thing is who I'm picking & not the score...)
On Saturday the first game is the Saints verses the Seahawks. The defending Super Bowl champs vs a division winner that finished with a losing record at 7-9. The Saints are banged up but they do have a lot of talent. The Seahawks have the underdog role and Qwest Field advantage. I like the Saints, I really do. But I have to go with the Seahawks and the upset.
Seahawks 20 Saints 17
The second game on Saturday is the Jets verses the Colts. The Jets have been a hard team to figure out. They have beaten top teams like the Patriots and Steelers but have lost some unexplainable games. The Colts made the playoffs on the last week and have overcome a lot of injuries. I think Peyton will prevail in this matchup.
Colts 27 Jets 17
The first game on Sunday is the Ravens verses the Chiefs. The Ravens aren't the Ravens of previous years but they are annoyingly tough. The Chiefs are a surprise division winner and are hosting their first playoff game since 2003. I don't like the Ravens at all so it makes it easier to make this pick. My Kansas City friends will be happy as I think the Chiefs will roll.
Chiefs 31 Ravens 10
The final game is the Packers verses the Eagles. This is probably the most intriguing matchup of the weekend. The Packers are probably the most dangerous team in that you don't know what to expect. They are one of those teams that could make a deep run. The Eagles have some explosive offensive players including the should be Comeback Player of the Year Michael Vick. This one is a tough one to pick. I'm going with the Packers in this one but it'll be close.
Packers 34 Eagles 31
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Playoff Hockey...Nothing Like It
Growing up in Tennessee, it may not look like it but I'm a huge hockey fan. I've mentioned before how as a teen I grew to love hockey and even more so when the Predators came to Nashville. I have been to a few games since the Preds started back in the fall of 1998, including one this year when I was home for spring break (which they won in a shootout against Phoenix).
But as great as regular season hockey is, it's even more so in the playoffs. I hope one of these days to go to a playoff game but in the meantime I watch it on TV.
To me, there's nothing like watching playoff hockey. The action is intense and even more so if it goes into overtime. If you've never seen a hockey game before, the playoffs are a great time to start. And if you'd like a team to root for, you can jump on the Predators bandwagon :)
But as great as regular season hockey is, it's even more so in the playoffs. I hope one of these days to go to a playoff game but in the meantime I watch it on TV.
To me, there's nothing like watching playoff hockey. The action is intense and even more so if it goes into overtime. If you've never seen a hockey game before, the playoffs are a great time to start. And if you'd like a team to root for, you can jump on the Predators bandwagon :)
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Divisional Round Picks
Busy week with classes, so here's the quick and dirty on the playoff picks for this round:
New Orleans 34 Arizona 31
Indianapolis 27 Baltimore 10
Minnesota 24 Dallas 21
New York 28 San Diego 24
New Orleans 34 Arizona 31
Indianapolis 27 Baltimore 10
Minnesota 24 Dallas 21
New York 28 San Diego 24
Friday, January 8, 2010
Wild Card Weekend Predictions
Well the predictions for 2010 are off and running. Yesterday didn't do so well with the BCS National Championship game. Of course didn't expect McCoy to get hurt on Texas' second series. Oh well, onto the pros. It's Wild Card Weekend and it's the first year since 2004 that a team I root for is not in the playoffs. Here's the breakdown for this weekend's action.
On Saturday, you have Jets/Bengals and Cowboys/Eagles. Both are rematches from Week 17. In Jets/Bengals, got to go with momentum. Jets have it Bengals don't...
Jets 24 Bengals 17
With the Cowboys/Eagles, it's hard to win three times against an opponent. Don't think Cowboys can do it.
Eagles 30 Cowboys 24
On Sunday, you have Packers/Cardinals and Ravens/Patriots, also rematches from the regular season. With Packers/Cards, you have the toughest game to pick. Last year I went with the road team, this year going with the home team in a close one
Cardinals 27 Packers 24
With Ravens/Patriots, simply put. I don't like Ravens and that makes this an easy pick.
Patriots 35 Ravens 17
On Saturday, you have Jets/Bengals and Cowboys/Eagles. Both are rematches from Week 17. In Jets/Bengals, got to go with momentum. Jets have it Bengals don't...
Jets 24 Bengals 17
With the Cowboys/Eagles, it's hard to win three times against an opponent. Don't think Cowboys can do it.
Eagles 30 Cowboys 24
On Sunday, you have Packers/Cardinals and Ravens/Patriots, also rematches from the regular season. With Packers/Cards, you have the toughest game to pick. Last year I went with the road team, this year going with the home team in a close one
Cardinals 27 Packers 24
With Ravens/Patriots, simply put. I don't like Ravens and that makes this an easy pick.
Patriots 35 Ravens 17
Friday, January 16, 2009
2009 Championship Weekend Predictions
It has been a long week of classes at seminary. So I'm tired and so this will be a quick predictions:
NFC Championship: Eagles over Cardinals 34-31
AFC Championship: Steelers over Ravens 31-3
NFC Championship: Eagles over Cardinals 34-31
AFC Championship: Steelers over Ravens 31-3
Friday, January 9, 2009
2009 Divisional Round Weekend Predictions
It's about time for the second round of the NFL Playoffs. Last weekend was not a good predicting week. I went 1-3 with the lone win coming from an overtime win with San Diego. I will say in defense, I was really considering Arizona but didn't. If I had, I would've went 2-2, but nevertheless I didn't. However, this week I've got a good feeling. So let's get to the picks:
Game 1 on Saturday features my team, the Tennessee Titans squaring off against the Baltimore Ravens. This game has gotten a lot of attention, mainly about the past. It was eight years ago that these two teams squared off in a similar fashion. It was the divisional round, the Titans had the #1 seed and the Ravens won the game and went on to the Super Bowl. For some strange reason, the national media seems to think that game happened last year or even last week. I hate to break it to them but it didn't. It wasn't even the last playoff matchup these two teams had. That took place in 2003 with the Titans beating the Ravens. The two squared off earlier this season with the Titans getting the victory despite not playing their best football. The Ravens have a top tier defense and a solid running game. However, I'm not sold on Joe Flacco as a playoff quarterback. The Titans may be without Kevin Mawae, their starting center but his replacement is capable of getting the job done. The Titans defense along with solid play from the running game this time around. The national media likes history, here's a historical stat I found interesting. All time, #6 seeds are 1-10 against #1 seeds in the playoffs (the one win was the Steelers in 2005). Chalk up sweet redemption for the Titans.
Titans over Ravens 24-10
Game 2 sees the Arizona Cardinals vs. the Carolina Panthers. The Cardinals came off an impressive win over the Falcons in their Wild Card game. The defense got key turnovers and the running game with took off. The offense is high powered though there is a question mark about the health of WR Anquan Boldin, who is a game time decision. The Cards had a hard time this season traveling east to play teams. That could play a role. The Panthers had the week off to rest and get ready. They have a QB who's played in a Super Bowl (Jake Delhomme) as well. The also have a 1-2 punch at RB with DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. Their defense is solid and their coach (John Fox) is a quality coach. This will be a good matchup. And though I'd like to see the Cards in the NFC Championship game, I just can't pick them. Close game but edge goes to the Panthers.
Panthers over Cardinals 27-24
Game 1 on Sunday features the reigning Super Bowl champion New York Giants against division rival Philadelphia Eagles. This has the makings of a typical NFC East barnburner. The Giants come in off the bye rested and ready. They have a great running attack with Jacobs, Ward and Bradshaw (aka Earth, Wind and Fire) and solid QB play from Eli Manning. They also have a solid defense. But they are prone to lapses where they don't play up to their hype. The Eagles come soaring in after a big win last week in Minnesota. They of course still have Donovan McNabb and that defense. The question is always there about their running game. Since these teams know each other so well, it's very much a toss up. I think for me the deciding factor is momentum. The Eagles have it I think and the Giants really don't. Fly Eagles Fly, they get the win.
Eagles over Giants 17-10
The final divisional round game will be the San Diego Chargers vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers. This to me is the hardest game for me to pick. I really don't know. The Chargers come in having been in playoff mode for over a month now. They won a tough game against the Colts in overtime. The health of L.T. is of big concern for the Chargers. Probably all indications are that he won't play which means Darren Sproles will more than likely get the start. This may factor into the special teams as that would mean less Sproles on returns. The Steelers have their defense which is one of the top defenses. The game is in Pittsburgh which would favor the cold weathered Steelers over the warm weather Chargers. However, the running game that the Steelers are used to isn't what it used to be. Out of all the playoff teams left, they are the worst at running the ball. Also of concern is QB Ben Roethlesberger who's coming off of a concussion. He should play but that could be something to look at. These two teams squared off earlier in the season with the Steelers winning 11-10. I think it'll be close but I think that the Chargers will win because like the Giants, I'm not sold on these Steelers.
Chargers over Steelers 14-13
Good luck to everyone and Go Titans!
Game 1 on Saturday features my team, the Tennessee Titans squaring off against the Baltimore Ravens. This game has gotten a lot of attention, mainly about the past. It was eight years ago that these two teams squared off in a similar fashion. It was the divisional round, the Titans had the #1 seed and the Ravens won the game and went on to the Super Bowl. For some strange reason, the national media seems to think that game happened last year or even last week. I hate to break it to them but it didn't. It wasn't even the last playoff matchup these two teams had. That took place in 2003 with the Titans beating the Ravens. The two squared off earlier this season with the Titans getting the victory despite not playing their best football. The Ravens have a top tier defense and a solid running game. However, I'm not sold on Joe Flacco as a playoff quarterback. The Titans may be without Kevin Mawae, their starting center but his replacement is capable of getting the job done. The Titans defense along with solid play from the running game this time around. The national media likes history, here's a historical stat I found interesting. All time, #6 seeds are 1-10 against #1 seeds in the playoffs (the one win was the Steelers in 2005). Chalk up sweet redemption for the Titans.
Titans over Ravens 24-10
Game 2 sees the Arizona Cardinals vs. the Carolina Panthers. The Cardinals came off an impressive win over the Falcons in their Wild Card game. The defense got key turnovers and the running game with took off. The offense is high powered though there is a question mark about the health of WR Anquan Boldin, who is a game time decision. The Cards had a hard time this season traveling east to play teams. That could play a role. The Panthers had the week off to rest and get ready. They have a QB who's played in a Super Bowl (Jake Delhomme) as well. The also have a 1-2 punch at RB with DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. Their defense is solid and their coach (John Fox) is a quality coach. This will be a good matchup. And though I'd like to see the Cards in the NFC Championship game, I just can't pick them. Close game but edge goes to the Panthers.
Panthers over Cardinals 27-24
Game 1 on Sunday features the reigning Super Bowl champion New York Giants against division rival Philadelphia Eagles. This has the makings of a typical NFC East barnburner. The Giants come in off the bye rested and ready. They have a great running attack with Jacobs, Ward and Bradshaw (aka Earth, Wind and Fire) and solid QB play from Eli Manning. They also have a solid defense. But they are prone to lapses where they don't play up to their hype. The Eagles come soaring in after a big win last week in Minnesota. They of course still have Donovan McNabb and that defense. The question is always there about their running game. Since these teams know each other so well, it's very much a toss up. I think for me the deciding factor is momentum. The Eagles have it I think and the Giants really don't. Fly Eagles Fly, they get the win.
Eagles over Giants 17-10
The final divisional round game will be the San Diego Chargers vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers. This to me is the hardest game for me to pick. I really don't know. The Chargers come in having been in playoff mode for over a month now. They won a tough game against the Colts in overtime. The health of L.T. is of big concern for the Chargers. Probably all indications are that he won't play which means Darren Sproles will more than likely get the start. This may factor into the special teams as that would mean less Sproles on returns. The Steelers have their defense which is one of the top defenses. The game is in Pittsburgh which would favor the cold weathered Steelers over the warm weather Chargers. However, the running game that the Steelers are used to isn't what it used to be. Out of all the playoff teams left, they are the worst at running the ball. Also of concern is QB Ben Roethlesberger who's coming off of a concussion. He should play but that could be something to look at. These two teams squared off earlier in the season with the Steelers winning 11-10. I think it'll be close but I think that the Chargers will win because like the Giants, I'm not sold on these Steelers.
Chargers over Steelers 14-13
Good luck to everyone and Go Titans!
Saturday, January 3, 2009
2009 Wild Card Weekend Predictions
As per tradition, here are my predictions for Wild Card Weekend:
The first game is Atlanta vs. Arizona. This is the most interesting matchup out of the four games. Atlanta made a huge turnaround from last season. They have the Offensive Rookie of the Year in QB Matt Ryan and the one-two punch of RBs with Michael Turner and Jerious Norwood. They have a solid defense that is very opportunistic. However, this is their first time in the playoffs in a few years so there might be some anxiety, especially with a rookie QB. Arizona is hosting their first playoff game in a really, really long time. They have an explosive offense led by former MVP Kurt Warner and the exciting trio of WRs which includes Anquan Boldin, Larry Fitzgerald and Steve Breaston. However, they have been in a slump the last few weeks and haven't been in sync. This will be a close game but I think that Atlanta will get the W.
Falcons over Cardinals 34-31
The second game on Saturday is Indianapolis vs. San Diego. Indy is coming into the playoffs on a huge roll, winning nine games in a row. They again have the league MVP in QB Peyton Manning and have the usual cast of characters on offense. Their weakness again could be their defense which seems to play up or play down depending on the opponent. The Chargers have L.T., Philip Rivers, Antonio Gates along with a winning streak of their own to get into the playoffs. Their weakness has been their defense and inconsistent play earlier in the year. These two teams played in the regular season with Indy winning with a last second field goal. They also met last season in the playoffs with the Chargers knocking off the then defending champs in the divisional round. The X-factor will be RB/KR Darren Sproles. He will be the difference in a Chargers win.
Chargers over Colts 27-17
The third wild card matchup is Baltimore vs. Miami. The Ravens have their usual staunch defense along with the tough running game with Willis McGahee and Le'Ron McClain. They are also led by a rookie QB in Joe Flacco. That could also be their weakness as he has shown at times this season to be a little flappable. The Dolphins have made an incredible turnaround from 1-15 to a division win and the playoffs. They are led by Comeback Player of the year in QB Chad Pennington, RBs Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams and a no-name defense. The weakness is their lack of playoff experience together as it has been several years since they made the playoffs. This one is a tough one to pick, but I'm going with the feel good story.
Dolphins over Ravens 24-10
The final wild card matchup is Philadelphia vs. Minnesota. Philly made the playoffs thanks to some help in the final week. They still have QB Donovan McNabb, RB Brian Westbrook and a defense that can give people fits. However, they are still one dimensional in the pass and if they don't get a little more balanced, it could be a short stay in the playoffs. Minnesota has a great running attack with RBs Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor and a stifling defense. However, they don't have the greatest QB play with Tavaris Jackson. I think this will be a smash mouth type of game that will also be unexpectedly low scoring. I think Minnesota will try and dominate the time of possession with the run game. It will be a squeaker but I'm going with the Vikes at home.
Vikings over Eagles 17-10
I know that my picks are for the most part going against the experts. So either I'll be really right or really wrong. Either way it ought to be interesting :)
The first game is Atlanta vs. Arizona. This is the most interesting matchup out of the four games. Atlanta made a huge turnaround from last season. They have the Offensive Rookie of the Year in QB Matt Ryan and the one-two punch of RBs with Michael Turner and Jerious Norwood. They have a solid defense that is very opportunistic. However, this is their first time in the playoffs in a few years so there might be some anxiety, especially with a rookie QB. Arizona is hosting their first playoff game in a really, really long time. They have an explosive offense led by former MVP Kurt Warner and the exciting trio of WRs which includes Anquan Boldin, Larry Fitzgerald and Steve Breaston. However, they have been in a slump the last few weeks and haven't been in sync. This will be a close game but I think that Atlanta will get the W.
Falcons over Cardinals 34-31
The second game on Saturday is Indianapolis vs. San Diego. Indy is coming into the playoffs on a huge roll, winning nine games in a row. They again have the league MVP in QB Peyton Manning and have the usual cast of characters on offense. Their weakness again could be their defense which seems to play up or play down depending on the opponent. The Chargers have L.T., Philip Rivers, Antonio Gates along with a winning streak of their own to get into the playoffs. Their weakness has been their defense and inconsistent play earlier in the year. These two teams played in the regular season with Indy winning with a last second field goal. They also met last season in the playoffs with the Chargers knocking off the then defending champs in the divisional round. The X-factor will be RB/KR Darren Sproles. He will be the difference in a Chargers win.
Chargers over Colts 27-17
The third wild card matchup is Baltimore vs. Miami. The Ravens have their usual staunch defense along with the tough running game with Willis McGahee and Le'Ron McClain. They are also led by a rookie QB in Joe Flacco. That could also be their weakness as he has shown at times this season to be a little flappable. The Dolphins have made an incredible turnaround from 1-15 to a division win and the playoffs. They are led by Comeback Player of the year in QB Chad Pennington, RBs Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams and a no-name defense. The weakness is their lack of playoff experience together as it has been several years since they made the playoffs. This one is a tough one to pick, but I'm going with the feel good story.
Dolphins over Ravens 24-10
The final wild card matchup is Philadelphia vs. Minnesota. Philly made the playoffs thanks to some help in the final week. They still have QB Donovan McNabb, RB Brian Westbrook and a defense that can give people fits. However, they are still one dimensional in the pass and if they don't get a little more balanced, it could be a short stay in the playoffs. Minnesota has a great running attack with RBs Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor and a stifling defense. However, they don't have the greatest QB play with Tavaris Jackson. I think this will be a smash mouth type of game that will also be unexpectedly low scoring. I think Minnesota will try and dominate the time of possession with the run game. It will be a squeaker but I'm going with the Vikes at home.
Vikings over Eagles 17-10
I know that my picks are for the most part going against the experts. So either I'll be really right or really wrong. Either way it ought to be interesting :)
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Random Sports Reflections
There is a lot going on lately and so here is a way to hit some points in a random fashion:
*The baseball playoffs started yesterday...on cable. So that means, no watching for me at least the first few days. Of course I'm pulling for the Red Sox in the AL. In the NL, I'm supporting the Cubs and the Brewers. I would like to see a Red Sox/Cubs World Series (like I did back in 2003). We'll see if that turns out.
*I meant to write about this sooner but I wanted to share a story that has broken my heart. In the preseason, Jacksonville Jaguars OT Richard Collier was shot 14 times outside of an apartment building with a former teammate waiting for some girls to come out. This past week, he had his leg amputated. He is still alive thankfully but his life is forever changed. I have been praying for Collier and would ask those that read this blog to do the same.
*College Football teams haven't been good on my end. The records of the two teams I root for (Tennesse, Washington) are a combined 1-7. It has not been fun at all. Thankfully the two NFL teams I root for is a different story. Their combined record (Tennessee, Seattle) is 5-2, with Tennessee being 4-0 for the first time in the history of the franchise. Hopefully that will continue and that Seattle will turn things around as well.
*The baseball playoffs started yesterday...on cable. So that means, no watching for me at least the first few days. Of course I'm pulling for the Red Sox in the AL. In the NL, I'm supporting the Cubs and the Brewers. I would like to see a Red Sox/Cubs World Series (like I did back in 2003). We'll see if that turns out.
*I meant to write about this sooner but I wanted to share a story that has broken my heart. In the preseason, Jacksonville Jaguars OT Richard Collier was shot 14 times outside of an apartment building with a former teammate waiting for some girls to come out. This past week, he had his leg amputated. He is still alive thankfully but his life is forever changed. I have been praying for Collier and would ask those that read this blog to do the same.
*College Football teams haven't been good on my end. The records of the two teams I root for (Tennesse, Washington) are a combined 1-7. It has not been fun at all. Thankfully the two NFL teams I root for is a different story. Their combined record (Tennessee, Seattle) is 5-2, with Tennessee being 4-0 for the first time in the history of the franchise. Hopefully that will continue and that Seattle will turn things around as well.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
The NBA Finals: Where Retro Happens
It's June which means it's time for the NBA Finals. A time where given the last ten years there have been very few good series. But this year could be one of those good series. The Los Angeles Lakers vs the Boston Celtics. Two perenniel powerhouse teams. One of the most storied rivalries in all of sports.
It is a rivalry that spends decades. From the 60s with Russell vs West to the 80s with Bird vs Magic to today. Most people are calling this the dream matchup between Kobe and the Big Three (Garnett, Allen, Pierce).
Personally, while I think this will be a good series, I think it won't match in comparison the times in the 80s when the Lakers and Celtics were dominant. That was an era in basketball that was tremendous. I probably was spoiled as a child growing up watching such great basketball. The whole NBA was great but just to name players off these two teams with the "Showtime" Lakers with Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, James Worthy, A.C. Green, Byron Scott, Micheal Cooper, Kurt Rambis and the vaunted Boston Celtics with Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, Robert Parish, Dennis Johnson, Danny Ainge, Gerald Henderson and Bill Walton (who was just hanging on there at the end). But I named those guys off the top of my head without having to look them up and look how many guys I named some 20 something years later. I would be hard pressed to name the starting five for many teams in the NBA today.
Those series in the 80s were tremendous. Games where both teams scored well over 100 points. Several Hall of Famers on each team on the court at the same time. Great arenas like the Boston Garden and The Forum.
I say all that to say that while I'm excited about this year's finals for the first time in a few years, it doesn't compare to those years growing up watching guys like Larry and Magic. Then again, I'm sure there are kids now that say this is the best basketball. That's the thing about growing up.
Prediction: Celtics in 5
It is a rivalry that spends decades. From the 60s with Russell vs West to the 80s with Bird vs Magic to today. Most people are calling this the dream matchup between Kobe and the Big Three (Garnett, Allen, Pierce).
Personally, while I think this will be a good series, I think it won't match in comparison the times in the 80s when the Lakers and Celtics were dominant. That was an era in basketball that was tremendous. I probably was spoiled as a child growing up watching such great basketball. The whole NBA was great but just to name players off these two teams with the "Showtime" Lakers with Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, James Worthy, A.C. Green, Byron Scott, Micheal Cooper, Kurt Rambis and the vaunted Boston Celtics with Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, Robert Parish, Dennis Johnson, Danny Ainge, Gerald Henderson and Bill Walton (who was just hanging on there at the end). But I named those guys off the top of my head without having to look them up and look how many guys I named some 20 something years later. I would be hard pressed to name the starting five for many teams in the NBA today.
Those series in the 80s were tremendous. Games where both teams scored well over 100 points. Several Hall of Famers on each team on the court at the same time. Great arenas like the Boston Garden and The Forum.
I say all that to say that while I'm excited about this year's finals for the first time in a few years, it doesn't compare to those years growing up watching guys like Larry and Magic. Then again, I'm sure there are kids now that say this is the best basketball. That's the thing about growing up.
Prediction: Celtics in 5
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)