This is the final week of the NFL regular season and bowls are starting to churn out better and better games as we grow closer to New Year's Day and the blowup of games that day. There are a few games to keep an eye on in the NFL to see who will win divisions, including the NFC Worst, I mean West division. Then, the granddaddy of them all, the Rose Bowl Game features a very enticing game featuring #5 Wisconsin against #3 TCU. Also, Bowl games this week will just be from tomorrow until New Year's as I wouldn't have 10 games next week to fill this space if I didn't tweak it that way. Also, gotta give credit to ESPN.com for some of the info used in this column. Especially with the bowl games. Go to espn.com/ncf and also check the bowl previews.
College
Hyundai Sun Bowl
Miami (FL) vs. Notre Dame
These two once historic programs have fallen on hard times lately. Both had higher aspirations than to be in the Sun Bowl, especially Miami. Miami's head coach got fired for failing to meet those lofty expectations. But, both should be motivated to play in this game. Miami would like to prove themselves to be who everyone thought they'd be, and Notre Dame would like to have a springboard into next season. Notre Dame's defense hopes to continue what it's been doing on their current three game winning streak, holding opponents to just over 230 yards a game. Plus, freshman Tommy Rees would like to continue to mature and hold off incumbent Dayne Crist next season. Then, Miami needs to start producing on offense, especially Jacory Harris who has struggled throughout the season. It should be a great game and hopefully a renewal of an old convicts vs. catholics rivalry.
Pick: Notre Dame 31, Miami 23
Chick-Fil-A Bowl
No. 20 South Carolina vs. No. 23 Florida State
Both these teams are coming off crushing defeats in their respective conference title games, and this sets up a rather nice bowl game. Both teams would love to rebound and get off to a fresh start next season. This should be a lower scoring game, as both teams feature some good defenses. South Carolina led the SEC in rushing defense and in sacks, while Florida State is second in the nation in sacks. Florida State will have to get into the backfield a lot to stop South Carolina's three pronged attack of Stephen Garcia throwing to Alshon Jeffery and handing off to talented freshman Marcus Lattimore. Jeffery and Lattimore both had over 1,000 yards respectively, receiving for Heffery and Lattimore rushing. Florida State has a big question mark at quarterback, as they don't know if talented Christian Ponder will start or EJ Manuel. With that up in the air, go with the Cocks.
Pick: South Carolina 24, Florida State 20
Outback Bowl
Penn State vs. Florida
Both teams had middling 7-5 seasons, but the main storyline going into this bowl will be the coaches. Urban Meyer, 46 retiring at the end of the game presumably for good against the ageless wonder Joe Paterno, 84 who has no plans to retire any time soon. Paterno will coach Penn State next season for as long as Meyer has been alive. Another interesting stat regarding this game is that 9 of the combined 10 losses for the two teams came against ranked opponents at the time they faced them. The only one that didn't: Penn State's loss to Illinois. Florida will be very amp'd up for this game, as they should be since Meyer is retiring. Plus, Penn State doesn't nearly have the level of talent that Florida does, hence why I think Penn State will lose.
Pick: Florida 41, Penn State 24
Capital One Bowl
No. 9 Michigan State vs. No. 16 Alabama
This is one heckuva matchup, as it pits the defending National Champions against the Spartans, who are having a magical season. Both coaches will have no hard feelings for one another after the game, as Mark Dantonio was an assistant under former Michigan State coach Nick Saban and both have remained friends throughout the 11 years since Saban's departure for the warmth of the SEC. The matchups do not favor the Spartans on paper, but the game isn't played on paper, hence why I'm going with my gut and picking Michigan State to upset Alabama.
Pick: Michigan State 24, Alabama 22
Rose Bowl Game presented by Vizio
No. 3 TCU vs. No. 5 Wisconsin
This is a classic strength vs. strength game. TCU has the number one rush defense in the nation, while Wisconsin has the number one rushing offense in the nation. When it comes to these types of strength vs. strength games, always go with the defense. Although Wisconsin does have three nearly 1,000 yard rushers in Montee Ball, John Clay and James White. TCU boasts its own talented offense, led by senior quarterback Andy Dalton, who is as poised as they come. Dalton has been a four year starter at TCU and hopes to go out with a bang, which I think he will.
Pick: TCU 42, Wisconsin 39
NFL
St. Louis at Seattle
This game will decide who comes out of the woeful West. It will either be a .500 team if St. Louis wins, or a team with a losing record, if Seattle wins. Since Matt Hasselbeck is most likely out for the Seahawks, that gives a slight edge to St. Louis and their number one pick Sam Bradford. The one advantage Seattle has is that the game is in Seattle, the loudest stadium in the NFL, by far. Seattle needs to rely on their 12th man and a stingy defense to rattle Bradford into mistakes. Seattle also needs Marshawn Lynch to be a good back this game for them to win the West, which I think they barely do.
Pick: Seattle 27, St. Louis 26
Jacksonville at Houston
Jacksonville needs to win and pray Indianapolis loses to win the AFC South. That being said, Jacksonville should roll against Houston, which seems to have given up since going 4-2 to start the season. Since then, they have gone a woeful 1-8 after their bye week. I don't think there is any chance that Gary Kubiak is staying after the game, and Houston is going home again after another disappointing season.
Pick: Jacksonville 37, Houston 21
Tennessee at Indianapolis
Indianpolis' mission: win and they are in. After their game against Oakland last week proved they can actually run the ball, and take some of the pressure off Peyton Manning, I think they will win again to go into the AFC playoffs as the number four seed. Indianapolis will win because they are getting healthier and the emergence of a running game. Plus, Tennessee has Kerry Collins starting at quarterback. Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis will reek havoc on him all day.
Pick: Indy 38, Tennessee 10
Chicago at Green Bay
This is another win and in game, this time for Green Bay. The difference this time is that Chicago still has faint hopes of getting home field advantage throughout the playoffs. Chicago will probably make a decision on their starters depending the result of the Atlanta-Carolina game. If Carolina somehow wins, Chicago will probably play their starters and try and get the number one seed. If Atlanta wins, which I'm thinking will happen, Chicago will probably rest their starters and wait for the divisional opponent. Whichever the case, I think Green Bay will win because they are motivated and for anyone who didn't see their game against the Giants, Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay offense destroyed them. Hence, Packers win and they will be in to face the Eagles in the Wild Card round.
Pick: Green Bay 27, Chicago 13
Tampa Bay at New Orleans
Tampa will need to win and have a lot of help if they are to get the final wild card spot in the NFC. New Orleans is still wishing and hoping for that number one seed if Atlanta loses. Both teams have been playing better down the stretch. Tampa has been running the ball effectively with LeGarrette Blount and Josh Freeman not turning the ball over. New Orleans didn't play well at all in Baltimore, but then rebounded last week to beat Atlanta for the first time since 2007 in Atlanta. I think Tampa will fall just short of their dreams this season, but watch for them next season.
Pick: New Orleans 41, Tampa Bay 17
Happy New Year! Celebrate joyously and responsibly this coming New Year's Eve! If you do drink, please get a designated driver or take a cab home, it's much safer! Also, be sure to check out my December game of the month post coming up on Saturday, along with the game of the year also coming Saturday! Then, on Sunday, be sure to check out my Wild Card round and final Bowl picks!
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
10 Best football games week 16!
It is hard to believe there are only two weeks left in the regular season in the NFL. What is even more amazing is 13 teams are in contention for the playoffs, and only four playoff spots are already locked up. Then, there is the very much lackluster bowl season thus far, with only one of the four games so far exciting. But, here's hoping for some more exciting bowl games within the next week. Also, thankfully there are more enticing match ups in bowl games this coming week, and there are nine bowls within the next week, so I'm picking the best five bowls in my opinion. Also, as with last week, I give credit to Will Harris, and this week to Pat Forde of espn.com for providing some of the info for me.
College
San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl
Navy at San Diego State
This is one of three games being played at the home team's stadium. the other two being the Hawaii Bowl and the Armed Forces Bowl. But, it will be interesting to see which school has more fans at the game, San Diego State or Navy. Navy has a base in San Diego, and then obviously it is at San Diego State's stadium. But, onto the game. Brady Hoke has done a remarkable job at San Diego State, turning this program from moribound to bowl bound in just two seasons. The Aztecs also have a prolific passing attack which ranks 11th in the nation led by Ryan Lindley, who has passed for over 3,500 yards and may be a dark horse Heisman candidate next season. Navy, on the other hand loves to run the ball, and senior quarterback Ricky Dobbs may have a NFL job lined up for him after his service commitment runs out. Dobbs will want to go out on top, but I gotta go with the hometown Aztecs.
Pick: SDSU 31, Navy 14
Champs Sports Bowl
West Virginia vs. North Carolina State
Tom O'Brien and bowl winning go hand in hand, as O'Brien owns a 8-2 mark in bowl games. The Wolfpack has a great quarterback in Russell Wilson, who has averaged over 300 yards a game by himself. But, the West Virginia defense is in the top five in the nation for both yards allowed and points allowed. West Virginia 's offense hasn't been as explosive as the Mountainners had hoped it'd be, as star running back Noel Devine has been battered by injury, but should be healthy for this game. west Virginia will ride their defense to a win in this game.
Pick: West Virginia 24, N.C. State 13
Insight Bowl
Mizzou vs. Iowa
Iowa has been a disappointment this season, especially in their last three games when they went into a free fall, losing their final three including against a lowly Minnesota team. Mizzou and their spectacular quarterback Blaine Gabbert went 10-2 over the season and their only two losses were to Big 12 north winner Nebraska and to Texas Tech, which was a let down game. Mizzou also beat then number one Oklahoma at home, so I'll give the edge to Mizzou in this one.
Pick: Mizzou 42, Iowa 20
Texas Bowl
Illinois vs. Baylor
This isn't a particularly exciting bowl game, but it's worth watching just for the national exposure of Baylor, who hasn't gone bowling since 1994. Neither team was good by any stretch of the imagination, as both teams were awful down the stretch. Both teams feature good running games though, as Illinois has Mikel Leshoure who rushed for over 1,500 yards and Baylor has Robert Griffith II, and expect a shootout.
Pick: Baylor 45, Illinois 38
Valero Alamo Bowl
Oklahoma State vs. Arizona
Arizona has been in free fall, as they haven't won a game since October. That fact alone makes me want to pick against Arizona. Also, the Wildcats defense has been non existent their past four games, giving up at least 24 points in each of their final four games. Oklahoma State has been a juggernaut offensive team the entire season with the terriffic trio of Brandon Weeden, Justin Blackmon, and Kendall Hunter. If Oklahoma State ever got a defense to match its impressive offense, they could be a national title contender.
Pick: Oklahoma State 50, Arizona 28
NFL
San Francisco at St. Louis
This is one of those games in the ever worsening NFC West. This is an anomaly for this season, as no division is rarely this bad, and this division winner will probably go out in the first round, but there must be a winner. San Francisco has won five straight versus the Rams, and I think that trend will continue this week, even in St. Louis. The 49ers defense will be their saving grace and pick off Sam Bradford and sack him a lot to help the anemic offense.
Pick: San Francisco 24, St. Louis 23
New York Jets at Chicago
Chicago came out of frigid Minnesota with the NFC North title and now they are on their quest for the NFC's number two seed. The Jets need to win out to secure a playoff spot, and they looked good against Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh, as they rattled Ben Roethlisberger all day and came back from a fourth quarter deficit to win. I think Chicago will lose out, as that would be helpful to the Eagles. I also think the Jets will finish out the season as they did last year, with victories in their final two games to sneak into the playoffs.
Pick: New York Jets 31, Chicago 21
New York Giants at Green Bay
This game is an elimination game for Green Bay, as if they lose, they're eliminated from the playoff picture. New York could lose this game and still get into the playoffs, if Green Bay lost in week 17 and New York won against Washington. But, this will be a good game, as Aaron Rodgers is back after suffering a concussion against Detroit. New York will need to bounce back from their debacle against the Eagles when they gave up 28 points in 7:30 seconds. With Rodgers back, I think the Pack will bounce back and get a win.
Pick: Green Bay 24, New York 20
Minnesota at Philadelphia
Philly is flying high after their miracle at the Meadowlands and just need to win both of their games and have Chicago lose once for the Eagles to clinch the number two seed in the NFC. They also just need the Giants to lose once or the Eagles need to win once to clinch the NFC East. If the Giants don't lose in Green Bay, the Eagles most definitely will win against Minnesota in the snow on Sunday night. The Vikings will have either a bruised and battered Brett Favre starting or inexperienced rookie Joe Webb starting at quarterback. Sean McDermott will have the blitzes lined up and ready to go to rattle either quarterback and the Eagles will create turnovers.
Pick: Philly 34, Minnesota 13
New Orleans at Atlanta
New Orleans has pretty much clinched a playoff spot, all they need to do is either win or have Tampa lose and they have clinched. New Orleans needs to win this game and pray Atlanta loses to Carolina in week 17 for the Saints to clinch back to back NFC South division titles. Atlanta has been proving me wrong week after week, winning continuously on the road as well as at home. Atlanta has not lost at home since 2007, but they have escaped losses at home throughout the season. I think New Orleans will rectify their loss in week three and finally win in Atlanta.
Pick: New Orleans 26, Atlanta 24
Finally, remember the true reason for the season, Jesus Christ and his birth. Let us remember God becoming man this weekend along with the feast full of family and friends. Let us remember Jesus' birth this weekend and every day. Have a wonderful weekend, fill yourself with food and enjoy this weekend!
College
San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl
Navy at San Diego State
This is one of three games being played at the home team's stadium. the other two being the Hawaii Bowl and the Armed Forces Bowl. But, it will be interesting to see which school has more fans at the game, San Diego State or Navy. Navy has a base in San Diego, and then obviously it is at San Diego State's stadium. But, onto the game. Brady Hoke has done a remarkable job at San Diego State, turning this program from moribound to bowl bound in just two seasons. The Aztecs also have a prolific passing attack which ranks 11th in the nation led by Ryan Lindley, who has passed for over 3,500 yards and may be a dark horse Heisman candidate next season. Navy, on the other hand loves to run the ball, and senior quarterback Ricky Dobbs may have a NFL job lined up for him after his service commitment runs out. Dobbs will want to go out on top, but I gotta go with the hometown Aztecs.
Pick: SDSU 31, Navy 14
Champs Sports Bowl
West Virginia vs. North Carolina State
Tom O'Brien and bowl winning go hand in hand, as O'Brien owns a 8-2 mark in bowl games. The Wolfpack has a great quarterback in Russell Wilson, who has averaged over 300 yards a game by himself. But, the West Virginia defense is in the top five in the nation for both yards allowed and points allowed. West Virginia 's offense hasn't been as explosive as the Mountainners had hoped it'd be, as star running back Noel Devine has been battered by injury, but should be healthy for this game. west Virginia will ride their defense to a win in this game.
Pick: West Virginia 24, N.C. State 13
Insight Bowl
Mizzou vs. Iowa
Iowa has been a disappointment this season, especially in their last three games when they went into a free fall, losing their final three including against a lowly Minnesota team. Mizzou and their spectacular quarterback Blaine Gabbert went 10-2 over the season and their only two losses were to Big 12 north winner Nebraska and to Texas Tech, which was a let down game. Mizzou also beat then number one Oklahoma at home, so I'll give the edge to Mizzou in this one.
Pick: Mizzou 42, Iowa 20
Texas Bowl
Illinois vs. Baylor
This isn't a particularly exciting bowl game, but it's worth watching just for the national exposure of Baylor, who hasn't gone bowling since 1994. Neither team was good by any stretch of the imagination, as both teams were awful down the stretch. Both teams feature good running games though, as Illinois has Mikel Leshoure who rushed for over 1,500 yards and Baylor has Robert Griffith II, and expect a shootout.
Pick: Baylor 45, Illinois 38
Valero Alamo Bowl
Oklahoma State vs. Arizona
Arizona has been in free fall, as they haven't won a game since October. That fact alone makes me want to pick against Arizona. Also, the Wildcats defense has been non existent their past four games, giving up at least 24 points in each of their final four games. Oklahoma State has been a juggernaut offensive team the entire season with the terriffic trio of Brandon Weeden, Justin Blackmon, and Kendall Hunter. If Oklahoma State ever got a defense to match its impressive offense, they could be a national title contender.
Pick: Oklahoma State 50, Arizona 28
NFL
San Francisco at St. Louis
This is one of those games in the ever worsening NFC West. This is an anomaly for this season, as no division is rarely this bad, and this division winner will probably go out in the first round, but there must be a winner. San Francisco has won five straight versus the Rams, and I think that trend will continue this week, even in St. Louis. The 49ers defense will be their saving grace and pick off Sam Bradford and sack him a lot to help the anemic offense.
Pick: San Francisco 24, St. Louis 23
New York Jets at Chicago
Chicago came out of frigid Minnesota with the NFC North title and now they are on their quest for the NFC's number two seed. The Jets need to win out to secure a playoff spot, and they looked good against Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh, as they rattled Ben Roethlisberger all day and came back from a fourth quarter deficit to win. I think Chicago will lose out, as that would be helpful to the Eagles. I also think the Jets will finish out the season as they did last year, with victories in their final two games to sneak into the playoffs.
Pick: New York Jets 31, Chicago 21
New York Giants at Green Bay
This game is an elimination game for Green Bay, as if they lose, they're eliminated from the playoff picture. New York could lose this game and still get into the playoffs, if Green Bay lost in week 17 and New York won against Washington. But, this will be a good game, as Aaron Rodgers is back after suffering a concussion against Detroit. New York will need to bounce back from their debacle against the Eagles when they gave up 28 points in 7:30 seconds. With Rodgers back, I think the Pack will bounce back and get a win.
Pick: Green Bay 24, New York 20
Minnesota at Philadelphia
Philly is flying high after their miracle at the Meadowlands and just need to win both of their games and have Chicago lose once for the Eagles to clinch the number two seed in the NFC. They also just need the Giants to lose once or the Eagles need to win once to clinch the NFC East. If the Giants don't lose in Green Bay, the Eagles most definitely will win against Minnesota in the snow on Sunday night. The Vikings will have either a bruised and battered Brett Favre starting or inexperienced rookie Joe Webb starting at quarterback. Sean McDermott will have the blitzes lined up and ready to go to rattle either quarterback and the Eagles will create turnovers.
Pick: Philly 34, Minnesota 13
New Orleans at Atlanta
New Orleans has pretty much clinched a playoff spot, all they need to do is either win or have Tampa lose and they have clinched. New Orleans needs to win this game and pray Atlanta loses to Carolina in week 17 for the Saints to clinch back to back NFC South division titles. Atlanta has been proving me wrong week after week, winning continuously on the road as well as at home. Atlanta has not lost at home since 2007, but they have escaped losses at home throughout the season. I think New Orleans will rectify their loss in week three and finally win in Atlanta.
Pick: New Orleans 26, Atlanta 24
Finally, remember the true reason for the season, Jesus Christ and his birth. Let us remember God becoming man this weekend along with the feast full of family and friends. Let us remember Jesus' birth this weekend and every day. Have a wonderful weekend, fill yourself with food and enjoy this weekend!
Friday, December 17, 2010
10 Best Football Games Week 15!
Well, bowl games are arriving this week, and pretty much all of the are horrible looking except for the Maaco Las Vegas bowl, which pits Boise State versus Utah. But, the rest are all between mid-major teams like Troy and Ohio. But, in the NFL, there are six or seven really good games coming up on Sunday and one of them will essentially determine a division champion, that being Colts-Jaguars. So, allow me to start off your football weekend with the 10 best football games this weekend! O, and credit goes to Will Harris of espn.com for most college info, as I have no idea about these games.
College
BYU vs. UTEP
New Mexico Bowl
BYU was hoping to be in contention for the Mountain West title, but pretty much flopped right out of the gate at 1-4, and were out of the running, but they have roared back to finish at 6-6, as head coach Bronco Mendenhall took over as defensive coordinator to help the cougars rebound. The Miners however have gone in the opposite direction, starting out 5-1, and finishing 1-5, as their starting quarterback went down. My rule of thumb is if someone is one the down swing to finish off the year, they are not going to play well in the bowl game.
Pick: BYU 37, UTEP 13
Fresno State vs. Northern Illinois
uDrove Humanitarian Bowl
O, as a side note, bowl games have the oddest sponsors trying to get their names out there, and for me, I got no idea what uDrove is or anything, but look for these throughout bowl season. Now, onto the game. Northern Illinois got to the MAC championship game, and lost to Miami (OH), so that's how they ended up here in Boise on the blue turf. Northern Illinois not only lost to Miami, but they also lost their head coach and they ran into a defense intent on stopping them in the MAC championship game holding them to only 21 when they averaged over 60 the past three games. Fresno on the other hand has been amazing against BCS qualifying teams in bowl games, but they are 0-5 against fellow mid-majors. But, I think they'll break out against the Huskies.
Pick: Fresno State 24, NIU10
Troy vs. Ohio
R&L Carriers New Orleans
Troy is coming to this game again from winning the Sun Belt conference. But, they are not having their customary strong defense, which could hurt them, but not likely, as Ohio failed to secure the MAC East division championship against a weak Kent State team. So, Ohio will be coming in motivated to prove everyone wrong in this game.
Pick: Ohio 31, Troy 20
Southern Miss vs. Louisville
Beef O' Brady's St. Petersburg Bowl
This is the only game from now until next Wednesday which features a BCS conference team, that being Louisville. Louisville came back from a horrible few years under Steve Kragthorpe to be bowl eligible again under new coach Charlie Strong. Southern Miss has always been pretty good in the non-AQ conferences. Both defenses are not all that good, so it should be a shootout.
Pick: Souther Miss 42, Louisville 40
Utah vs. Boise State
Maaco Bowl Las Vegas
This is the premier bowl game until next Thursday at least, as both teams are ranked, and both teams had one or two losses. Boise's lone loss was against Nevada in Nevada, who is no slouch of a team, ranked in the top 20. Plus, I still believe Kyle Brotzman's field goal as time expired was good, look at the back angle, and you'd say it's good too. Utah's two losses were back to back as they got trounced at home by TCU and then also got trounced on the road at then struggling Notre Dame. But, now this is just a toss up game. But, I think Boise is definitely the better team.
Pick: Boise 45, Utah 20
NFL
Jacksonville at Indianapolis
This is the most important game of the weekend, as far as playoff positioning is concerned and if Peyton Manning can get to the playoffs for the ninth consecutive year. But, they have been injury ravaged the entire season, and Jacksonville has been on a roll since they fell to 3-4 when they lost at the Kansas City Chiefs. This game will essentially decide the division winner, as if Jacksonville wins, they'll be the AFC South champions, as they beat the Colts in Jacksonville earlier and own the tiebreaker over them. To me, even Peyton Manning cannot overcome all of the injuries the Colts have endured this season and Jacksonville has been under appreciated the entire season and will win.
Pick: Jacksonville 23, Indianapolis 20
Philadelphia at New York Giants
This game also has major implications as far as a division race is concerned, as both teams are vying for the NFC East lead and possibly the number 2 seed in the NFC. Both teams have just improved since their last meeting earlier in November. Both teams are banged up, as the Giants top two wide receivers are out for the season, while two pieces of the Eagles defense are gone for the season. So, it should be an excellent game, between two rivals, and I have confidence in the Eagles to win and win the division then.
Pick: Philly 27, New York Giants 23
New Orleans at Baltimore
This is the best intra-conference game of the weekend, and it is important to both teams, as New Orleans needs this game to keep pace with Atlanta in the NFC South race, and Baltimore would love to have Pittsburgh slip up against the Jets. Baltimore has been odd this season, as they have gotten big leads, but then nearly blown them. A perfect example came last Monday, when they were up big on the Texans, and then they had to win in overtime. While New Orleans has been sneaking under the radar and nobody has paid any attention to them since they fell to 4-3 against the Browns and everyone thought that their season was over. Since then, they've won six straight and are clicking on all cylinders right now.
Pick: New Orleans 34, Baltimore 24
New York Jets at Pittsburgh
Baltimore would love for the Jets to win, and the Jets need to win to keep from slipping even further and having a three game losing streak. The Jets have the perfect opportunity to do that versus a banged up Steelers secondary, as Troy Polamalu is most likely out of the game. But, the Jets will need to step up with their pass protection and Mark Sanchez will need to turn around his performance if the Jets are to win, especially because the Jets cannot run the ball against the top ranked run defense in the AFC.
Pick: New York Jets 17, Pittsburgh 13
Kansas City at St. Louis
While Green Bay and New England may be the featured game on NBC's Sunday night football, this game has more intrigue. The reason it has more intrigue is that it's a game between division leaders, and it could be classified as a "rivalry" game, even though these two teams only play each other every four years. This game is similar to the Steelers and Eagles in Pennsylvania, it's for state supremacy. This game all comes down to Kansas City's quarterback scenario. If Matt Cassel starts, Chiefs will win by double digits, if Brodie Croyle starts, St. Louis wins by double digits. My bet is that Croyle starts and will continue his streak of going winless.
Pick: St. Louis 28, Kansas City 12
Also, if anyone is interested and you still have time, please create a college bowl mania entry on espn.com, pick straight picks, and then search sports blog and PJ's sports blog will come up, compete against me for bragging rights this bowl season!
College
BYU vs. UTEP
New Mexico Bowl
BYU was hoping to be in contention for the Mountain West title, but pretty much flopped right out of the gate at 1-4, and were out of the running, but they have roared back to finish at 6-6, as head coach Bronco Mendenhall took over as defensive coordinator to help the cougars rebound. The Miners however have gone in the opposite direction, starting out 5-1, and finishing 1-5, as their starting quarterback went down. My rule of thumb is if someone is one the down swing to finish off the year, they are not going to play well in the bowl game.
Pick: BYU 37, UTEP 13
Fresno State vs. Northern Illinois
uDrove Humanitarian Bowl
O, as a side note, bowl games have the oddest sponsors trying to get their names out there, and for me, I got no idea what uDrove is or anything, but look for these throughout bowl season. Now, onto the game. Northern Illinois got to the MAC championship game, and lost to Miami (OH), so that's how they ended up here in Boise on the blue turf. Northern Illinois not only lost to Miami, but they also lost their head coach and they ran into a defense intent on stopping them in the MAC championship game holding them to only 21 when they averaged over 60 the past three games. Fresno on the other hand has been amazing against BCS qualifying teams in bowl games, but they are 0-5 against fellow mid-majors. But, I think they'll break out against the Huskies.
Pick: Fresno State 24, NIU10
Troy vs. Ohio
R&L Carriers New Orleans
Troy is coming to this game again from winning the Sun Belt conference. But, they are not having their customary strong defense, which could hurt them, but not likely, as Ohio failed to secure the MAC East division championship against a weak Kent State team. So, Ohio will be coming in motivated to prove everyone wrong in this game.
Pick: Ohio 31, Troy 20
Southern Miss vs. Louisville
Beef O' Brady's St. Petersburg Bowl
This is the only game from now until next Wednesday which features a BCS conference team, that being Louisville. Louisville came back from a horrible few years under Steve Kragthorpe to be bowl eligible again under new coach Charlie Strong. Southern Miss has always been pretty good in the non-AQ conferences. Both defenses are not all that good, so it should be a shootout.
Pick: Souther Miss 42, Louisville 40
Utah vs. Boise State
Maaco Bowl Las Vegas
This is the premier bowl game until next Thursday at least, as both teams are ranked, and both teams had one or two losses. Boise's lone loss was against Nevada in Nevada, who is no slouch of a team, ranked in the top 20. Plus, I still believe Kyle Brotzman's field goal as time expired was good, look at the back angle, and you'd say it's good too. Utah's two losses were back to back as they got trounced at home by TCU and then also got trounced on the road at then struggling Notre Dame. But, now this is just a toss up game. But, I think Boise is definitely the better team.
Pick: Boise 45, Utah 20
NFL
Jacksonville at Indianapolis
This is the most important game of the weekend, as far as playoff positioning is concerned and if Peyton Manning can get to the playoffs for the ninth consecutive year. But, they have been injury ravaged the entire season, and Jacksonville has been on a roll since they fell to 3-4 when they lost at the Kansas City Chiefs. This game will essentially decide the division winner, as if Jacksonville wins, they'll be the AFC South champions, as they beat the Colts in Jacksonville earlier and own the tiebreaker over them. To me, even Peyton Manning cannot overcome all of the injuries the Colts have endured this season and Jacksonville has been under appreciated the entire season and will win.
Pick: Jacksonville 23, Indianapolis 20
Philadelphia at New York Giants
This game also has major implications as far as a division race is concerned, as both teams are vying for the NFC East lead and possibly the number 2 seed in the NFC. Both teams have just improved since their last meeting earlier in November. Both teams are banged up, as the Giants top two wide receivers are out for the season, while two pieces of the Eagles defense are gone for the season. So, it should be an excellent game, between two rivals, and I have confidence in the Eagles to win and win the division then.
Pick: Philly 27, New York Giants 23
New Orleans at Baltimore
This is the best intra-conference game of the weekend, and it is important to both teams, as New Orleans needs this game to keep pace with Atlanta in the NFC South race, and Baltimore would love to have Pittsburgh slip up against the Jets. Baltimore has been odd this season, as they have gotten big leads, but then nearly blown them. A perfect example came last Monday, when they were up big on the Texans, and then they had to win in overtime. While New Orleans has been sneaking under the radar and nobody has paid any attention to them since they fell to 4-3 against the Browns and everyone thought that their season was over. Since then, they've won six straight and are clicking on all cylinders right now.
Pick: New Orleans 34, Baltimore 24
New York Jets at Pittsburgh
Baltimore would love for the Jets to win, and the Jets need to win to keep from slipping even further and having a three game losing streak. The Jets have the perfect opportunity to do that versus a banged up Steelers secondary, as Troy Polamalu is most likely out of the game. But, the Jets will need to step up with their pass protection and Mark Sanchez will need to turn around his performance if the Jets are to win, especially because the Jets cannot run the ball against the top ranked run defense in the AFC.
Pick: New York Jets 17, Pittsburgh 13
Kansas City at St. Louis
While Green Bay and New England may be the featured game on NBC's Sunday night football, this game has more intrigue. The reason it has more intrigue is that it's a game between division leaders, and it could be classified as a "rivalry" game, even though these two teams only play each other every four years. This game is similar to the Steelers and Eagles in Pennsylvania, it's for state supremacy. This game all comes down to Kansas City's quarterback scenario. If Matt Cassel starts, Chiefs will win by double digits, if Brodie Croyle starts, St. Louis wins by double digits. My bet is that Croyle starts and will continue his streak of going winless.
Pick: St. Louis 28, Kansas City 12
Also, if anyone is interested and you still have time, please create a college bowl mania entry on espn.com, pick straight picks, and then search sports blog and PJ's sports blog will come up, compete against me for bragging rights this bowl season!
Saturday, December 11, 2010
10 Best Football Games Week 14!
Sorry for the lateness of this post, been incredibly busy all throughout the week, as new job and such kinda derails your original plans. But, as I am starting this past the time the Army-Navy game was well in hand. I would have picked Navy to beat Army handily, as Navy has been too strong and are really playing their best football right now. Also, as Bowl season is about to begin next Saturday, I will be doing five bowl games per week, with each week ending on a Wednesday. So, for instance next week, there will be five games I pick, and those will end on the 22nd, then 29th, and so on into the new year. Now, on to the 10 best NFL games this week. It is a fairly slim picking as far as intriguing and playoff implicating games, but I will pick the 10 which have at least some impact.
Atlanta at Carolina
This is one of the many games which fit this week's mold. There is one team which is headed to the playoffs almost certainly, and the other is hoping for a good draft pick. The only reason why this game is even getting picked is because Atlanta has the chance to clinch a playoff spot if they get a few teams to lose, and they win. It is a certainty that they will win, it's just a matter of how much and if they will clinch a playoff spot this week.
Pick: Atlanta 41, Carolina 13
New York Giants at Minnesota
Minnesota has rebounded from an awful 3-7 start to win back-to-back games under new head coach Leslie Frazier, and are out of the playoff race unless something miraculous happens. But, the Vikings would like to finish the season on a winning stride. But, Brett Favre is a game-time decision with a shoulder injury, and Tarvaris Jackson isn't the best passer, but could get the job done. New York however, is still fighting for NFC East supremacy and they need to keep up with the Eagles. So, it will be a close game, but New York pulls it out.
Pick: New York 31, Minnesota 27
Tampa Bay at Washington
If this game were being played under colder conditions, I'd go with the Redskins even though they have lost 4 of their past 5. The reason why I say that, is because Tampa has a long history of losing when the kickoff temperature is under 40. But, this game is going to feature a ton of LeGarrette Blount as it will be pouring in D.C. and Blount will need to carry the load and hold onto the ball for a while. Tampa will run the ball with effectiveness and be dominant, especially since Albert Haynesworth has been suspended for the last four games.
Pick: Tampa Bay 27, Washington 6
Oakland at Jacksonville
Oakland is trying to win out to maintain it's slim playoff hopes. Jacksonville, on the other hand, needs to win to maintain its one game lead over Indianapolis. Jacksonville has been on a roll as of late as well, winning 5 of their last 6. Their only loss came to the Giants in New York. Jacksonville has been winning and will continue to win, as I see them winning the AFC South and taking over control from Indianapolis.
Pick: Jacksonville 29, Oakland 12
St. Louis at New Orleans
This is intriguing, as it has the defending Super Bowl champs, who are in a position to go to the playoffs against the division leading Rams. The Rams may win the weak NFC West, but Sam Bradford will have fits all day with Gregg Williams and the Saints defense sacking him all day. Plus, Drew Brees and the Saints offense have been rolling lately, and at home, they are doing very well.
Pick: New Orleans 31, St. Louis 16
Seattle at San Francisco
San Francisco has changed quarterbacks again, back to Alex Smith, as Troy Smith struggled last week against Green Bay when he only went 10/25 for only 178 yards. San Francisco wants to help keep its slim playoff hopes alive if they win out and hope that both St. Louis and Seattle also finish 8-8 or worse. I don't think that will happen however. Seattle has been doing fairly well under Pete Carroll and could be in line for a division title.
Pick: Seattle 30, San Francisco 21
New England at Chicago
This game is the cream of the crop this week, as it features two great teams. New England features an amazing offense, as they just decimated the Jets last week with it. Then, Chicago features an amazing defense, which only allows 16 points per game. New England and their offense just decimated the amazing Jets defense by putting up 45 points. I don't think they'll put up that many against the Bears, but I think that they'll win the game by a fairly healthy amount.
Pick: New England 38, Chicago 27
Miami at New York Jets
Miami again needs this game to maintain its slim hopes for the playoffs, sitting 9th in the AFC right now with a record of 6-6. New York needs this game to keep pace in the AFC playoff race. I think with their blowout loss against New England, they'll bounce back with a big game against their divisional rival.
Pick: New York 34, Miami 20
Kansas City at San Diego
San Diego may be down by two games in the AFC West, but do not count them out of the AFC West race. Especially when you consider that Matt Cassel is going to be out for Kansas City and Brodie Croyle could be in for two games for the Chiefs. Plus, Croyle is winless as a starter, and San Diego is coming off its first loss in December in a few years.
Pick: San Diego 34, Kansas City 10
Philadelphia at Dallas
Dallas has been on a roll since Jason Garrett took over as head coach, winning 3 of his first four games, losing a close one to New Orleans on Thanksgiving day. Dallas has lost one key cog on offense though, Dez Bryant with a broken ankle for the rest of the season. But, Philadelphia has lost its best cornerback for the past few games with a leg injury, and their starting tackle Winston Justice is out for this game as well. Philadelphia still remembers how they were embarrassed out of the playoffs last season by Dallas, and would love nothing more than to get a win over Dallas in Dallas this week.
Pick: Philly 30, Dallas 28
Atlanta at Carolina
This is one of the many games which fit this week's mold. There is one team which is headed to the playoffs almost certainly, and the other is hoping for a good draft pick. The only reason why this game is even getting picked is because Atlanta has the chance to clinch a playoff spot if they get a few teams to lose, and they win. It is a certainty that they will win, it's just a matter of how much and if they will clinch a playoff spot this week.
Pick: Atlanta 41, Carolina 13
New York Giants at Minnesota
Minnesota has rebounded from an awful 3-7 start to win back-to-back games under new head coach Leslie Frazier, and are out of the playoff race unless something miraculous happens. But, the Vikings would like to finish the season on a winning stride. But, Brett Favre is a game-time decision with a shoulder injury, and Tarvaris Jackson isn't the best passer, but could get the job done. New York however, is still fighting for NFC East supremacy and they need to keep up with the Eagles. So, it will be a close game, but New York pulls it out.
Pick: New York 31, Minnesota 27
Tampa Bay at Washington
If this game were being played under colder conditions, I'd go with the Redskins even though they have lost 4 of their past 5. The reason why I say that, is because Tampa has a long history of losing when the kickoff temperature is under 40. But, this game is going to feature a ton of LeGarrette Blount as it will be pouring in D.C. and Blount will need to carry the load and hold onto the ball for a while. Tampa will run the ball with effectiveness and be dominant, especially since Albert Haynesworth has been suspended for the last four games.
Pick: Tampa Bay 27, Washington 6
Oakland at Jacksonville
Oakland is trying to win out to maintain it's slim playoff hopes. Jacksonville, on the other hand, needs to win to maintain its one game lead over Indianapolis. Jacksonville has been on a roll as of late as well, winning 5 of their last 6. Their only loss came to the Giants in New York. Jacksonville has been winning and will continue to win, as I see them winning the AFC South and taking over control from Indianapolis.
Pick: Jacksonville 29, Oakland 12
St. Louis at New Orleans
This is intriguing, as it has the defending Super Bowl champs, who are in a position to go to the playoffs against the division leading Rams. The Rams may win the weak NFC West, but Sam Bradford will have fits all day with Gregg Williams and the Saints defense sacking him all day. Plus, Drew Brees and the Saints offense have been rolling lately, and at home, they are doing very well.
Pick: New Orleans 31, St. Louis 16
Seattle at San Francisco
San Francisco has changed quarterbacks again, back to Alex Smith, as Troy Smith struggled last week against Green Bay when he only went 10/25 for only 178 yards. San Francisco wants to help keep its slim playoff hopes alive if they win out and hope that both St. Louis and Seattle also finish 8-8 or worse. I don't think that will happen however. Seattle has been doing fairly well under Pete Carroll and could be in line for a division title.
Pick: Seattle 30, San Francisco 21
New England at Chicago
This game is the cream of the crop this week, as it features two great teams. New England features an amazing offense, as they just decimated the Jets last week with it. Then, Chicago features an amazing defense, which only allows 16 points per game. New England and their offense just decimated the amazing Jets defense by putting up 45 points. I don't think they'll put up that many against the Bears, but I think that they'll win the game by a fairly healthy amount.
Pick: New England 38, Chicago 27
Miami at New York Jets
Miami again needs this game to maintain its slim hopes for the playoffs, sitting 9th in the AFC right now with a record of 6-6. New York needs this game to keep pace in the AFC playoff race. I think with their blowout loss against New England, they'll bounce back with a big game against their divisional rival.
Pick: New York 34, Miami 20
Kansas City at San Diego
San Diego may be down by two games in the AFC West, but do not count them out of the AFC West race. Especially when you consider that Matt Cassel is going to be out for Kansas City and Brodie Croyle could be in for two games for the Chiefs. Plus, Croyle is winless as a starter, and San Diego is coming off its first loss in December in a few years.
Pick: San Diego 34, Kansas City 10
Philadelphia at Dallas
Dallas has been on a roll since Jason Garrett took over as head coach, winning 3 of his first four games, losing a close one to New Orleans on Thanksgiving day. Dallas has lost one key cog on offense though, Dez Bryant with a broken ankle for the rest of the season. But, Philadelphia has lost its best cornerback for the past few games with a leg injury, and their starting tackle Winston Justice is out for this game as well. Philadelphia still remembers how they were embarrassed out of the playoffs last season by Dallas, and would love nothing more than to get a win over Dallas in Dallas this week.
Pick: Philly 30, Dallas 28
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
November Game of the Month!
November had plenty of good games to choose from, unlike its predecessor, which in my estimation did not have too much to jump off the table with. But, November offered up more than its fair share of college football games alone to fill the requisite three games to be considered for game of the month, and two of them occurred just this past weekend!
The three games were: Illinois at Michigan, Auburn at Alabama, and Boise State at Nevada. These three were chosen based on the importance of the latter two, and just the absolute craziness of the first.
Illinois and Michigan played just one thriller of a game, as it was a 67-65 triple overtime thriller. These two teams racked up a ton of points first off, so it was very exciting to watch on television, as most Michigan games were this past season when they had an explosive offense and a debilitating defense. Plus, when overtime gets involved, it makes any game go up there on a game of the month or year list.
Then, there was the "Iron Bowl" between Auburn and Alabama. This game had three things going for it. One, it is a rivalry game each and every year, no matter how bad either team is, they will always play their best against their most hated rival. The second thing was that it had national title game implications, as if Auburn would have lost, they would have been knocked out of the national title game and absolute chaos would have ensued with the BCS. Finally, it had a great comeback led by a Heisman trophy candidate. How could that game not be part of it?
Finally, there was the Boise State at Nevada game. This game also was great, as it featured the premier quarterback of a program's history (Colin Kapernick) engineering a big comeback to derail Boise State's title hopes. Then, there was a heartbreaking ending with Boise State's kicker, Kyle Brotzman who missed two basically chip-shot field goals within 30 yards. Plus, this game decided who won the conference between two of the best teams in all of college football.
So, which of these three gets the title of November Game of the Month? It has to be Auburn at Alabama. As mentioned above, it would have cause pure chaos had Alabama won. Alabama seemed poised to win after the first quarter, where the Tide put a complete whipping on Auburn, going up 24-0 and it seemed as if it was going to be a blowout. However, Cam Newton essentially sealed his Heisman trophy with the comeback victory. Plus, the Auburn defense tightened up against some of the biggest playmakers in college football.
Be sure to check out the 10 best football games post following this one as well!
The three games were: Illinois at Michigan, Auburn at Alabama, and Boise State at Nevada. These three were chosen based on the importance of the latter two, and just the absolute craziness of the first.
Illinois and Michigan played just one thriller of a game, as it was a 67-65 triple overtime thriller. These two teams racked up a ton of points first off, so it was very exciting to watch on television, as most Michigan games were this past season when they had an explosive offense and a debilitating defense. Plus, when overtime gets involved, it makes any game go up there on a game of the month or year list.
Then, there was the "Iron Bowl" between Auburn and Alabama. This game had three things going for it. One, it is a rivalry game each and every year, no matter how bad either team is, they will always play their best against their most hated rival. The second thing was that it had national title game implications, as if Auburn would have lost, they would have been knocked out of the national title game and absolute chaos would have ensued with the BCS. Finally, it had a great comeback led by a Heisman trophy candidate. How could that game not be part of it?
Finally, there was the Boise State at Nevada game. This game also was great, as it featured the premier quarterback of a program's history (Colin Kapernick) engineering a big comeback to derail Boise State's title hopes. Then, there was a heartbreaking ending with Boise State's kicker, Kyle Brotzman who missed two basically chip-shot field goals within 30 yards. Plus, this game decided who won the conference between two of the best teams in all of college football.
So, which of these three gets the title of November Game of the Month? It has to be Auburn at Alabama. As mentioned above, it would have cause pure chaos had Alabama won. Alabama seemed poised to win after the first quarter, where the Tide put a complete whipping on Auburn, going up 24-0 and it seemed as if it was going to be a blowout. However, Cam Newton essentially sealed his Heisman trophy with the comeback victory. Plus, the Auburn defense tightened up against some of the biggest playmakers in college football.
Be sure to check out the 10 best football games post following this one as well!
10 Best Football Games Week 13!
The second best week in football comes this week for college football fans, as it is Championship Week, with more than half of the conferences will decide champions this week. But, I'm sorry for all of the MAC and C-USA lovers out there, I will not be previewing those two championship games this week. My friend Jason is however, please go to thefroshfifteen.blogspot.com to check out his predictions regarding those games. I will be concentrating on games which will factor into which teams get into the BCS and the National title game.
Then, in the NFL, there are only five weeks left to determine who will get into the playoffs and we are getting close to the final turn to separate the 20 team field of contenders into the 12 who will eventually make the playoffs. Now, to get on to the games!
College
No. 1 Auburn vs. No. 19 South Carolina
Cam Newton is eligible to play in this game. Therefore, Auburn will probably win, and they should win, considering they won last time at home against South Carolina. But, my personal feeling is that Cam Newton should not be eligible, because he had to know his dad's scheme to get any school to pay for his son's services to play for that particular school. The NCAA says that Cam didn't know of his dad's scheme, and that would make him ineligible. But, my feeling is that the NCAA wants Newton to play, and therefore have Auburn win and then TCU will not be in the national title game. South Carolina would roll if Newton was not playing, but the NCAA does not want an excluded team from playing for the national title, and they want ESPN, in their first year of getting the BCS to get the biggest ratings possible.
Pick: Auburn 37, South Carolina 31
No. 2 Oregon at Oregon State
The "civil war" game is a rivalry game, and could be very close had Oregon State's season not been derailed when James Rodgers went down with a season ending injury. Oregon State has lost three of its past four, and needs this win to become bowl eligible. But, Oregon will roll, as even a rivalry game at Oregon State cannot stop this locomotive going down the tracks and running over every opponent in its way.
Pick: Oregon 55, Oregon State 20
No. 21 Florida State vs. No. 15 Virginia Tech
This game is setting up to be great, as Virginia Tech has reeled off 10 consecutive victories since their first two losses to Boise State and James Madison. Tech has Tyrod Taylor and the Hokies always spectacular special teams to thank for that. Then, Jimbo Fisher, in his first year coaching Florida State taking over for the legendary Bobby Bowden, has done a remarkable job all things considered. The Seminoles have been hovering around the bottom of the top 25 all season, and they will get steamrolled by the dominant Hokies.
Pick: Virginia Tech 38, Florida State 21
No. 9 Oklahoma vs. No. 13 Nebraska
This is a fitting championship game for the final Big 12 championship game ever before they become the Big 10, but still keep the Big 12 moniker, confusing, but enough of my little rant. Oklahoma vaulted into this game after beating their rival Oklahoma State in Stillwater last week. Oklahoma very well could be a national title contender next year as well. Then, Nebraska, which has also been a dominant team in the Big 12, will get a shot at the BCS before moving into the Big 10. But, the status of Taylor Martinez is up in the air, and I don't think they can beat Oklahoma without him.
Pick: Oklahoma 24, Nebraska 10
Connecticut at South Florida
UConn, believe it or not could be the Big East's representative in the BCS. Randy Edsall has done a terriffic job at UConn, and made it a respectable football school as well as a fantastic basketball school. Jordan Todman has put together a quietly great season, rushing for nearly 1500 yards and 14 touchdowns. But, South Florida is out to play the spoiler and Skip Holtz is running the show much the same as Jim Leavitt did before he was fired last season for some off-field incidents.
Pick: Connecticut 23, South Florida 20
NFL
Houston at Philadelphia
This game starts a fairly pedestrian slate of games for the weekend, except for the last two I'm picking. But, as far as this game is concerned, the Eagles need to bounce back after an awful loss at Chicago last weekend. The score was not as close as the game really was. But, the Eagles could still have won that game had they known how to score in the red zone, going 1-5 in red zone chances. Houston also really needs this win to try and keep pace in the frantic AFC south, where all four teams are within one game of each other. The Texans also caught a break, as Andre Johnson was not suspended for his fight with Cortland Finnegan last week. I believe the Eagles will torch the Texans atrocious pass defense, giving up just short of 300 yards per game, and allow Brent Celek, DeSean Jackson, and Jeremy Maclin to have big games.
Pick: Philadelphia 45, Houston 24
Jacksonville at Tennessee
As noted above, Tennessee is only one game back of Jacksonville in the standings, but in reality, they should be looking forward to next season. Vince Young is out with a season ending thumb injury and they did not look good at all against the aforementioned Texans last week with Rusty Staub at quarterback, and will look better, but not much with the seemingly ageless Kerry Collins behind center this week. The Jaguars defensive line will get plenty of pressure on the immobile Collins and create turnover opportunities for the secondary. Then, Maurice Jones-Drew will continue his pro bowl caliber season with a fantastic day.
Pick: Jacksonville 31, Tennessee 17
Atlanta at Tampa Bay
Tampa is now two games out after Atlanta stayed unbeaten at home pulling another rabbit out of its hat for last week's victory. Then, Tampa lost to Baltimore by only a touchdown. Atlanta is a much different team on the road, than at home, as both of their losses have come on the road, and Tampa played the Falcons very tough in Atlanta the first time these two teams played. Tampa is now at home, and they will win this game via a signature of Josh Freeman, a fourth quarter comeback.
Pick: Tampa 24, Atlanta 20
Pittsburgh at Baltimore
Both teams did not look all that impressive last week, as Pittsburgh needed Steve Johnson to have a case of the drops to defeat Buffalo in overtime, and Baltimore just did not look all that good all around in their win over Tampa. Both these teams have another thing in common though, they simply cannot stand each other. This is a game for you if you love defense and hard hitting, which there will be plenty of with this game. Both teams are also fighting for the division lead, and probably a first round bye in the playoffs. Baltimore I think will win this game though, as Ben Roethlisberger cannot seem to stop pump faking worth his life and that will cost the Steelers with turnovers and field position. Joe Flacco and the Ravens offense will love having the ball closer to the fifty then.
Pick: Baltimore 20, Pittsburgh 14
New York Jets at New England
This is probably the premier game of the weekend, and ESPN is loving that they can hype the heck out of it. This game will not only determine who is the AFC East leader at the end of the night, but put the winner in the driver's seat for the number one seed in the AFC. New York beat the Patriots in New York in week two, and would love to do it in Foxboro this time. But, Bill Belichick and the genius that he is will come up with a game plan to beat the Jets at home.
Pick: Patriots 26, New York Jets 24
Check back next week for the greatest rivalry in all of college, the Army-Navy game and nine NFL games. Have a great weekend!
Then, in the NFL, there are only five weeks left to determine who will get into the playoffs and we are getting close to the final turn to separate the 20 team field of contenders into the 12 who will eventually make the playoffs. Now, to get on to the games!
College
No. 1 Auburn vs. No. 19 South Carolina
Cam Newton is eligible to play in this game. Therefore, Auburn will probably win, and they should win, considering they won last time at home against South Carolina. But, my personal feeling is that Cam Newton should not be eligible, because he had to know his dad's scheme to get any school to pay for his son's services to play for that particular school. The NCAA says that Cam didn't know of his dad's scheme, and that would make him ineligible. But, my feeling is that the NCAA wants Newton to play, and therefore have Auburn win and then TCU will not be in the national title game. South Carolina would roll if Newton was not playing, but the NCAA does not want an excluded team from playing for the national title, and they want ESPN, in their first year of getting the BCS to get the biggest ratings possible.
Pick: Auburn 37, South Carolina 31
No. 2 Oregon at Oregon State
The "civil war" game is a rivalry game, and could be very close had Oregon State's season not been derailed when James Rodgers went down with a season ending injury. Oregon State has lost three of its past four, and needs this win to become bowl eligible. But, Oregon will roll, as even a rivalry game at Oregon State cannot stop this locomotive going down the tracks and running over every opponent in its way.
Pick: Oregon 55, Oregon State 20
No. 21 Florida State vs. No. 15 Virginia Tech
This game is setting up to be great, as Virginia Tech has reeled off 10 consecutive victories since their first two losses to Boise State and James Madison. Tech has Tyrod Taylor and the Hokies always spectacular special teams to thank for that. Then, Jimbo Fisher, in his first year coaching Florida State taking over for the legendary Bobby Bowden, has done a remarkable job all things considered. The Seminoles have been hovering around the bottom of the top 25 all season, and they will get steamrolled by the dominant Hokies.
Pick: Virginia Tech 38, Florida State 21
No. 9 Oklahoma vs. No. 13 Nebraska
This is a fitting championship game for the final Big 12 championship game ever before they become the Big 10, but still keep the Big 12 moniker, confusing, but enough of my little rant. Oklahoma vaulted into this game after beating their rival Oklahoma State in Stillwater last week. Oklahoma very well could be a national title contender next year as well. Then, Nebraska, which has also been a dominant team in the Big 12, will get a shot at the BCS before moving into the Big 10. But, the status of Taylor Martinez is up in the air, and I don't think they can beat Oklahoma without him.
Pick: Oklahoma 24, Nebraska 10
Connecticut at South Florida
UConn, believe it or not could be the Big East's representative in the BCS. Randy Edsall has done a terriffic job at UConn, and made it a respectable football school as well as a fantastic basketball school. Jordan Todman has put together a quietly great season, rushing for nearly 1500 yards and 14 touchdowns. But, South Florida is out to play the spoiler and Skip Holtz is running the show much the same as Jim Leavitt did before he was fired last season for some off-field incidents.
Pick: Connecticut 23, South Florida 20
NFL
Houston at Philadelphia
This game starts a fairly pedestrian slate of games for the weekend, except for the last two I'm picking. But, as far as this game is concerned, the Eagles need to bounce back after an awful loss at Chicago last weekend. The score was not as close as the game really was. But, the Eagles could still have won that game had they known how to score in the red zone, going 1-5 in red zone chances. Houston also really needs this win to try and keep pace in the frantic AFC south, where all four teams are within one game of each other. The Texans also caught a break, as Andre Johnson was not suspended for his fight with Cortland Finnegan last week. I believe the Eagles will torch the Texans atrocious pass defense, giving up just short of 300 yards per game, and allow Brent Celek, DeSean Jackson, and Jeremy Maclin to have big games.
Pick: Philadelphia 45, Houston 24
Jacksonville at Tennessee
As noted above, Tennessee is only one game back of Jacksonville in the standings, but in reality, they should be looking forward to next season. Vince Young is out with a season ending thumb injury and they did not look good at all against the aforementioned Texans last week with Rusty Staub at quarterback, and will look better, but not much with the seemingly ageless Kerry Collins behind center this week. The Jaguars defensive line will get plenty of pressure on the immobile Collins and create turnover opportunities for the secondary. Then, Maurice Jones-Drew will continue his pro bowl caliber season with a fantastic day.
Pick: Jacksonville 31, Tennessee 17
Atlanta at Tampa Bay
Tampa is now two games out after Atlanta stayed unbeaten at home pulling another rabbit out of its hat for last week's victory. Then, Tampa lost to Baltimore by only a touchdown. Atlanta is a much different team on the road, than at home, as both of their losses have come on the road, and Tampa played the Falcons very tough in Atlanta the first time these two teams played. Tampa is now at home, and they will win this game via a signature of Josh Freeman, a fourth quarter comeback.
Pick: Tampa 24, Atlanta 20
Pittsburgh at Baltimore
Both teams did not look all that impressive last week, as Pittsburgh needed Steve Johnson to have a case of the drops to defeat Buffalo in overtime, and Baltimore just did not look all that good all around in their win over Tampa. Both these teams have another thing in common though, they simply cannot stand each other. This is a game for you if you love defense and hard hitting, which there will be plenty of with this game. Both teams are also fighting for the division lead, and probably a first round bye in the playoffs. Baltimore I think will win this game though, as Ben Roethlisberger cannot seem to stop pump faking worth his life and that will cost the Steelers with turnovers and field position. Joe Flacco and the Ravens offense will love having the ball closer to the fifty then.
Pick: Baltimore 20, Pittsburgh 14
New York Jets at New England
This is probably the premier game of the weekend, and ESPN is loving that they can hype the heck out of it. This game will not only determine who is the AFC East leader at the end of the night, but put the winner in the driver's seat for the number one seed in the AFC. New York beat the Patriots in New York in week two, and would love to do it in Foxboro this time. But, Bill Belichick and the genius that he is will come up with a game plan to beat the Jets at home.
Pick: Patriots 26, New York Jets 24
Check back next week for the greatest rivalry in all of college, the Army-Navy game and nine NFL games. Have a great weekend!
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Thanksgiving Weekend 10 Best Football Games!
This week is Thanksgiving, which means a feast of football and food. Thanksgiving is one of the few times which we remember throughout the year that what we are thankful for, the other times are mainly patriotic times. But, as I think to what I am thankful for, I think of my Savior, Jesus Christ, who has rescued me from the depths of hell to the joyous points of heaven. I'd like to also thank all of my friends who are there for me, no matter what I may do to ruin any trust that I may have built up. Thank you to them, for without you and Jesus, I have no idea where I'd be. Then, my family, who also gives me unconditional love, while we may not get along all the time, I still love you all. Finally, just thankful for all of the things which I have, which most folks on earth and in this country even do not. I have a shelter with heat, air conditioning, internet, cable, food, clean water, hot water, washer, dryer, electricity, laptop, dvd player, a wii, and so on and so forth, the list could fill up the entire column. But, again, thank you to all, and now let us get on to the fabulous feast of football!
College
No. 2 Auburn at No. 11 Alabama
This is one of the more enticing Iron Bowl games in recent memory. As Auburn would love to cream their hated rivals to move on and continue their quest for a national title. Alabama's quest for a national title was derailed earlier in the season when it lost against South Carolina and LSU. Alabama would love nothing more than to cream their most hated rival and knock them out of the national title picture. Both teams seem to be evenly matched, but in a rivalry game, that does not necessarily matter, as last year's Iron Bowl was decided by one point and on a last minute drive by the Crimson Tide against a mediocre Auburn team. Plus, this game is supposed to have bad weather associated with it, which will make this even more muddled to pick a team. This is a toss up game, as both teams are insanely talented, and that's what my pick is based on, a toss up.
Pick: Alabama 27, Auburn 23
No. 4 Boise State at No. 19 Nevada
While this is not a rivalry game, it will decide the WAC champion and if Boise State will continue on its way towards a hopeful national championship. Nevada has continually gotten better in the last few years, and especially this year, with Colin Kapernick's senior year at quarterback for the Wolfpack. Boise has not been confused by the "pistol" offense which Nevada employs, as they have been holding steady the past few seasons against them. Nevada also has not been able to contain Boise State's quarterback Kellen Moore the past few seasons, as he has been torching the Nevada defense the past two games with at least three touchdown passes in each of those. While this is going to be a shootout, and with the emotion going through Kapernick's veins, I think that it will be decided by ten points at the very least.
Pick: Boise State 51, Nevada 39
West Virginia at Pittsburgh
The "backyard brawl" will be very good, as it normally is, as it is another rivalry game. This time, it will determine if Pitt will get the Big East's invitation to the BCS. Pittsburgh has not been the powerhouse that most thought they would be when the season first kicked off, but they have been very consistent within the Big East, losing their only game by two in Connecticut. West Virginia has also not been quite the team most thought they would be coming into the season, but they have also been very consistent within the Big East, losing their only two games within the conference by a combined eight points. Rivalry games are always tough to pick, but I think Pitt would love to close out the conference this week versus their most hated rival.
Pick: Pitt 20, West Virginia 17
No. 21 Arizona at No. 1 Oregon
Oregon is in the driver's seat to be in the national title game, just so long as they do not slip up versus either Arizona or in the Civil War versus Oregon State, they are in. Oregon has had nearly two weeks to prepare for this game, after their close win at Cal. The only way Arizona can win this game is if they pull what Cal did, by faking injuries to try and slow the Oregon offense down. Oregon will win this game handily and LaMichael James will run all over the Wildcat defense.
Pick: Oregon 60, Arizona 42
No. 13 Oklahoma at No. 9 Oklahoma State
The "bedlam" series, as it is referred to in the great state of Oklahoma, is this year going to decide whether the Cowpokes are going to face Nebraska in the final Big 12 title game ever. Oklahoma State has been a decided underdog in the series, losing more than 75% of its games within the series. But, this year Okie State is a decided favorite, as it is in Stillwater, and their offense has three dynamic players in quarterback Brandon Weeden, running back Kendall Hunter, and Dez Bryant 2.0 Justin Blackmon. Oklahoma is also a good team featuring some good offensive weapons in its own right with Landry Jones, DeMarco Murray, and Ryan Broyles. Both defenses are not all that good either, so this will again be a shootout. I cannot pick against my good friend Danny Stinson's team, Oklahoma State, who is watching his first game after going around the world on a missions trip.
Pick: Oklahoma State 45, Oklahoma 41
NFL
Green Bay at Atlanta
This is probably the best game on the schedule this weekend. Two division leaders, and a possible NFC Championship preview. this literally could be it, in Atlanta in January. Green Bay would want to win this game to get the homefield advantage and the number one seed in the NFC, and so Matt Ryan would get out of his comfort zone in the Georgia Dome, where he has lost once in the past three years. This game will come down to if Clay Matthews, A.J. Hawk and the rest of the Packers defense can stop Roddy White from catching balls, as he is the leading receiver in the NFC, and if they can stop the battering ram of Michael Turner, who is a very stout 250 pounds and he is hard to get on the ground.
Pick: Green Bay 26, Atlanta 24
Jacksonville at New York Giants
Shockingly enough, Jacksonville is in first place in the AFC South. Then, the Giants are just coming off a tough loss to the Eagles in Philadelphia, which put them in second place in the NFC East, one of the harder divisions in football. Jacksonville has the momentum on their side, as they are on a two game winning streak. New York does have everyone healthy and ready to go, and they are back at home, but since David Garrard has an 111 rating on the road, and they will somehow continue to win.
Pick: Jacksonville 23, New York 17
Kansas City at Seattle
This is a game between division leaders believe it or not, as Kansas City is utilizing its rushing attack to perfection, as both running backs for the Chiefs, Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones are on pace for over 1,000 yards each. Then, there is Matt Cassel, who is managing the game well and getting the ball to his most talented receiver, Dwayne Bowe on a frequent basis, and the Chiefs continue to have a solid defense, only allowing slightly under 21 a game. Then, Seattle is atop the NFC West by virtue of the rest of the division doing horribly essentially. Seattle is in first place at 5-5, and just winning each week, as the stats say they should not be in first, giving up nearly five more points a game than they score.
Pick: Kansas City 30, Seattle 21
Tampa Bay at Baltimore
Tampa is in second place in the NFC South with their very young core of players doing some amazing jobs this season. Josh Freeman is becoming the quarterback the Bucs hoped he would become, LeGarrette Blount has become a premier running back in just his second year in the NFL, Mike Williams put the problems he had at Syracuse behind him, and Gerald McCoy is starting to look like the defensive force we all thought he'd be coming out of Oklahoma. Then, Baltimore has the complete package, with a great defense, and an even greater offense. As the game is in Baltimore, give the edge to the Ravens, but do not be surprised if the Bucs pull the upset.
Pick: Baltimore 31, Tampa Bay 23
Philadelphia at Chicago
Philly comes into the game on a three game winning streak after being embarrassed by the now dysfunctional Tennessee Titans and off of their bye week. Michael Vick has become a bona fide MVP candidate and the defense has been stepping up in key situations, creating turnovers and putting pressure on the quarterback. Chicago has also been on a roll itself, as they are themselves on a three game winning streak after losing to Washington before their bye week. Plus, Jay Cutler has been cutting down on his interceptions lately, only throwing one last week against Miami, and the Bears defense is first in the league in giving up points, only around 14 a game. The Sports Illustrated jinx could be in play for the Eagles, as Vick was featured on the cover of this week's magazine. But, I think Sean McDermott would probably devise a few schemes to throw Cutler off his game and keep Matt Forte grounded.
Pick: Philadelphia 28, Chicago 17
Again, please have a wonderful Thanksgiving, remember it everyday of the year, and safe travels to anyone who may be traveling. Feast on food and football this weekend.
College
No. 2 Auburn at No. 11 Alabama
This is one of the more enticing Iron Bowl games in recent memory. As Auburn would love to cream their hated rivals to move on and continue their quest for a national title. Alabama's quest for a national title was derailed earlier in the season when it lost against South Carolina and LSU. Alabama would love nothing more than to cream their most hated rival and knock them out of the national title picture. Both teams seem to be evenly matched, but in a rivalry game, that does not necessarily matter, as last year's Iron Bowl was decided by one point and on a last minute drive by the Crimson Tide against a mediocre Auburn team. Plus, this game is supposed to have bad weather associated with it, which will make this even more muddled to pick a team. This is a toss up game, as both teams are insanely talented, and that's what my pick is based on, a toss up.
Pick: Alabama 27, Auburn 23
No. 4 Boise State at No. 19 Nevada
While this is not a rivalry game, it will decide the WAC champion and if Boise State will continue on its way towards a hopeful national championship. Nevada has continually gotten better in the last few years, and especially this year, with Colin Kapernick's senior year at quarterback for the Wolfpack. Boise has not been confused by the "pistol" offense which Nevada employs, as they have been holding steady the past few seasons against them. Nevada also has not been able to contain Boise State's quarterback Kellen Moore the past few seasons, as he has been torching the Nevada defense the past two games with at least three touchdown passes in each of those. While this is going to be a shootout, and with the emotion going through Kapernick's veins, I think that it will be decided by ten points at the very least.
Pick: Boise State 51, Nevada 39
West Virginia at Pittsburgh
The "backyard brawl" will be very good, as it normally is, as it is another rivalry game. This time, it will determine if Pitt will get the Big East's invitation to the BCS. Pittsburgh has not been the powerhouse that most thought they would be when the season first kicked off, but they have been very consistent within the Big East, losing their only game by two in Connecticut. West Virginia has also not been quite the team most thought they would be coming into the season, but they have also been very consistent within the Big East, losing their only two games within the conference by a combined eight points. Rivalry games are always tough to pick, but I think Pitt would love to close out the conference this week versus their most hated rival.
Pick: Pitt 20, West Virginia 17
No. 21 Arizona at No. 1 Oregon
Oregon is in the driver's seat to be in the national title game, just so long as they do not slip up versus either Arizona or in the Civil War versus Oregon State, they are in. Oregon has had nearly two weeks to prepare for this game, after their close win at Cal. The only way Arizona can win this game is if they pull what Cal did, by faking injuries to try and slow the Oregon offense down. Oregon will win this game handily and LaMichael James will run all over the Wildcat defense.
Pick: Oregon 60, Arizona 42
No. 13 Oklahoma at No. 9 Oklahoma State
The "bedlam" series, as it is referred to in the great state of Oklahoma, is this year going to decide whether the Cowpokes are going to face Nebraska in the final Big 12 title game ever. Oklahoma State has been a decided underdog in the series, losing more than 75% of its games within the series. But, this year Okie State is a decided favorite, as it is in Stillwater, and their offense has three dynamic players in quarterback Brandon Weeden, running back Kendall Hunter, and Dez Bryant 2.0 Justin Blackmon. Oklahoma is also a good team featuring some good offensive weapons in its own right with Landry Jones, DeMarco Murray, and Ryan Broyles. Both defenses are not all that good either, so this will again be a shootout. I cannot pick against my good friend Danny Stinson's team, Oklahoma State, who is watching his first game after going around the world on a missions trip.
Pick: Oklahoma State 45, Oklahoma 41
NFL
Green Bay at Atlanta
This is probably the best game on the schedule this weekend. Two division leaders, and a possible NFC Championship preview. this literally could be it, in Atlanta in January. Green Bay would want to win this game to get the homefield advantage and the number one seed in the NFC, and so Matt Ryan would get out of his comfort zone in the Georgia Dome, where he has lost once in the past three years. This game will come down to if Clay Matthews, A.J. Hawk and the rest of the Packers defense can stop Roddy White from catching balls, as he is the leading receiver in the NFC, and if they can stop the battering ram of Michael Turner, who is a very stout 250 pounds and he is hard to get on the ground.
Pick: Green Bay 26, Atlanta 24
Jacksonville at New York Giants
Shockingly enough, Jacksonville is in first place in the AFC South. Then, the Giants are just coming off a tough loss to the Eagles in Philadelphia, which put them in second place in the NFC East, one of the harder divisions in football. Jacksonville has the momentum on their side, as they are on a two game winning streak. New York does have everyone healthy and ready to go, and they are back at home, but since David Garrard has an 111 rating on the road, and they will somehow continue to win.
Pick: Jacksonville 23, New York 17
Kansas City at Seattle
This is a game between division leaders believe it or not, as Kansas City is utilizing its rushing attack to perfection, as both running backs for the Chiefs, Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones are on pace for over 1,000 yards each. Then, there is Matt Cassel, who is managing the game well and getting the ball to his most talented receiver, Dwayne Bowe on a frequent basis, and the Chiefs continue to have a solid defense, only allowing slightly under 21 a game. Then, Seattle is atop the NFC West by virtue of the rest of the division doing horribly essentially. Seattle is in first place at 5-5, and just winning each week, as the stats say they should not be in first, giving up nearly five more points a game than they score.
Pick: Kansas City 30, Seattle 21
Tampa Bay at Baltimore
Tampa is in second place in the NFC South with their very young core of players doing some amazing jobs this season. Josh Freeman is becoming the quarterback the Bucs hoped he would become, LeGarrette Blount has become a premier running back in just his second year in the NFL, Mike Williams put the problems he had at Syracuse behind him, and Gerald McCoy is starting to look like the defensive force we all thought he'd be coming out of Oklahoma. Then, Baltimore has the complete package, with a great defense, and an even greater offense. As the game is in Baltimore, give the edge to the Ravens, but do not be surprised if the Bucs pull the upset.
Pick: Baltimore 31, Tampa Bay 23
Philadelphia at Chicago
Philly comes into the game on a three game winning streak after being embarrassed by the now dysfunctional Tennessee Titans and off of their bye week. Michael Vick has become a bona fide MVP candidate and the defense has been stepping up in key situations, creating turnovers and putting pressure on the quarterback. Chicago has also been on a roll itself, as they are themselves on a three game winning streak after losing to Washington before their bye week. Plus, Jay Cutler has been cutting down on his interceptions lately, only throwing one last week against Miami, and the Bears defense is first in the league in giving up points, only around 14 a game. The Sports Illustrated jinx could be in play for the Eagles, as Vick was featured on the cover of this week's magazine. But, I think Sean McDermott would probably devise a few schemes to throw Cutler off his game and keep Matt Forte grounded.
Pick: Philadelphia 28, Chicago 17
Again, please have a wonderful Thanksgiving, remember it everyday of the year, and safe travels to anyone who may be traveling. Feast on food and football this weekend.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
10 Best Football Games Week 11!
Well, with this week, there are only three more weeks in the college football regular season and then we will see who will play for the national championship in Glendale on December 5. Then, we are in November in the NFL, which means its time to separate the contenders from the pretenders.
There are the rumors floating around Auburn's embattled quarterback Cam Newton, and there is reason why he should be investigated. But, have we forgotten about the whole "innocent until proven guilty" thing? Because, as far as anyone for sure knows, Newton is still innocent, but the media and the country as a whole, have already tabbed this kid for being guilty of accepting offers to get paid to play for their university. That should not be forgotten, so as far as I know, and if I was a Heisman voter, I would still vote for Newton, and if he turns out to be guilty, I may have wasted my vote, but I still think he's the best player in Division 1-A.
The other hot topic this week has to do with two college games being played in baseball stadiums, as Illinois plays at Northwestern in the friendly confines of Wrigley Field and Notre Dame and Army try to awaken the ghosts of old Yankee Stadium while playing in the new palace of new Yankee Stadium. Both fields are incredibly tight fits, as the east endzone at Wrigley is six inches from the brick wall, granted padded brick wall, and the goalpost had to be bolted to the wall in right, as there were no other alternatives. I think that both are great for college football, as it creates buzz which probably would not be created otherwise if these teams were playing on their regular stadiums. Plus, if engineers and everyone else says it's safe to play, then let the kids play and have fun. If there are injuries caused by the close quarters, then it will be re-examined, otherwise, it should be fun to watch. Now, on to the ten best football games of the week!
College
No. 9 Ohio State at No. 20 Iowa
This game looked far more appealing a week ago than it does today. Iowa is coming off a loss at Northwestern which always seems to have their number, and is now completely out of the Big Ten title race. If this game were played last week, then we;d be talking about a potential Big Ten title or BCS berth on the line for both teams. Now, it is only one, with Ohio State being the potential team left out of the BCS with a loss here. Plus, Ohio State is very beatable, as Penn State was leading at the half last week until Ohio State trounced them. Go with Iowa, as they try to rebound and get revenge on last season's loss.
Pick: Iowa 26, Ohio State 20
No. 8 Nebraska at No. 19 Texas A&M
This could be a preview of the Big 12 title game if everything falls right. Texas A&M can light up the scoreboard versus anyone, even the "blackshirts" of Nebraska. Plus, Nebraska has been unable to stop a similar offense in Oklahoma State, and they could not even stop mighty Iowa State team, who both put up 30 or more points. However, Nebraska is still an incredibly talented team and would be in the national title conversation had they not slipped up against a very mediocre Texas team earlier in the year. So, go with the Cornhuskers.
Pick: Nebraska 42, Texas A&M 38
No. 16 Virginia Tech at No. 24 Miami (FL)
This is a game which awakes the games of past which often decided the Big East title when both teams were loacted there. Now, it will not decide the entire conference, but will decide who goes to the ACC Championship game. Miami is a tricky team to figure out, as they will continuously fool you to believe that they are good, but then let you down, as I think will happen here. Virginia Tech has reeled off eight victories in a row after their opening two losses to Boise State and James Madison. Expect Tyrod Taylor and the Hokies to continue their winning ways.
Pick: Virginia Tech 24, Miami (FL) 19
No. 13 Arkansas at No. 21 Mississippi State
The SEC West is so strong this season, as five of the six teams from that division are ranked, and it has been a dog fight, which makes it even more surprising that Auburn is undefeated coming from the SEC. Mississippi State has been a surprise team coming from the division and seem to be gaining footing with recruiting and such with Dan Mullen and his resume from Florida. Arkansas would also have a Heisman candidate with Ryan Mallett had they not lost to Alabama and Auburn. This will be a really good game, and I expect Mississippi State to pull this one out at home on senior day.
Pick: Mississippi State 34, Arkansas 23
No. 25 Florida State at Maryland
Freaky week in college football, as there are not one, but two ACC games which are worthy of this column this week shockingly enough. As mentioned earlier, the Virginia Tech/Miami game will determine the winner of the Coastal division, and this one may determine the winner of the Atlantic division. Maryland was picked last in most preview magazines, and have probably saved Ralph Friedgen's job this season with their performance. Maryland is at home, at night, on national television (ABC) for the first time in a few years, they'll get the job done against a reeling Seminole team.
Pick: Maryland 34, Florida State 17
NFL
Chicago at Miami
While many would consider Chicago to be a fraudulent 6-3 team, the fact is they are still 6-3 and on top of the NFC North. Chicago has done it with a makeshift offensive line and then with the two pedigrees of a winning team: running game and defense. Miami is down to its third string quarterback Tyler Thigpen and then signed (gulp) Patrick Ramsey as their backup this week to replace both Chad Henne and Chad Pennington who both ended their seasons, and for the latter Chad probably his career last week. Miami finally won a game at home last week with some good defense and the wildcat. As with most Thursday games, take the home team.
Pick: Miami 24, Chicago 20
Oakland at Pittsburgh
However shocking this is, it's true, the Oakland Raiders are in first place. Believe it or not, that is true after ten weeks in the NFL in 2010. The past eight seasons have been essentially pure hell for the Raiders and their fans, but they now seem to be working well with Tom Cable as the head coach. Then, there is Pittsburgh and Ben Roethlisberger who seems to pump fake on every throw and it caused him a lot of trouble last week, as the Patriots sacked Roethlisberger five times, all on pump fakes which he does not need to make. Pittsburgh will need to have Roethlisberger get rid of the ball earlier and have Rashard Mendenhall set the table early for them to win. Pittsburgh also will need to have their new kicker actually make a few field goals, as Jeff Reed was just around 66% before the Steelers released him this week. Oakland will have to play a 10 a.m. local time game, so that is going against them even coming off a bye week, so take the Steelers.
Pick: Pittsburgh 26, Oakland 21
Atlanta at St. Louis
Atlanta is coming off a big victory last week over the Ravens which put them in the drivers seat for the NFC's number one seed and home field throughout the playoffs. St. Louis is coming off a tough loss at San Francisco, where they lost in overtime. St. Louis cannot let that game stick in their heads this week, as they do have the NFC leading Falcons coming to town. St. Louis and Sam Bradford I think will come back from that tough loss to beat the Falcons this week, as they are at home, and when dealing with the NFC West, normally take the home team and it should be a victory.
Pick: St. Louis 30, Atlanta 28
Indianapolis at New England
The classic rivalry of the decade is back, with New England trying to avenge its loss and horrible decision from last year when Belichick decided to go for it from his own 24 with two minutes left. Indianapolis is looking like a down team this season, as they are without a few key cogs in their offense, and their defense just hasn't been the same this season. New England is coming off a big win in Pittsburgh last week on Sunday night, and I think as the momentum to pull out another close win.
Pick: New England 34, Indianapolis 33
New York Giants at Philadelphia
Game of the week, no question, as both teams are vying for the top spot in the NFC East and quite possibly the entire NFC. Philadelphia is coming off a complete and utter destruction after defeating the Redskins 59-28 on Monday, and Mike Vick is looking completely unstoppable at the moment. New York is coming off a stunning loss at home to the lowly Cowboys, and losing convincingly 33-20. New York was considered a top five team going into the game, and now could be considered outside of the top ten now. But, Tom Coughlin will regroup his team and get them ready to play. Philadelphia historically has had difficulty on Sunday Night, but I think with Vick in at quarterback, they will play tough and eek out a win.
Pick: Philadelphia 31, New York 28
Enjoy the weekend!
There are the rumors floating around Auburn's embattled quarterback Cam Newton, and there is reason why he should be investigated. But, have we forgotten about the whole "innocent until proven guilty" thing? Because, as far as anyone for sure knows, Newton is still innocent, but the media and the country as a whole, have already tabbed this kid for being guilty of accepting offers to get paid to play for their university. That should not be forgotten, so as far as I know, and if I was a Heisman voter, I would still vote for Newton, and if he turns out to be guilty, I may have wasted my vote, but I still think he's the best player in Division 1-A.
The other hot topic this week has to do with two college games being played in baseball stadiums, as Illinois plays at Northwestern in the friendly confines of Wrigley Field and Notre Dame and Army try to awaken the ghosts of old Yankee Stadium while playing in the new palace of new Yankee Stadium. Both fields are incredibly tight fits, as the east endzone at Wrigley is six inches from the brick wall, granted padded brick wall, and the goalpost had to be bolted to the wall in right, as there were no other alternatives. I think that both are great for college football, as it creates buzz which probably would not be created otherwise if these teams were playing on their regular stadiums. Plus, if engineers and everyone else says it's safe to play, then let the kids play and have fun. If there are injuries caused by the close quarters, then it will be re-examined, otherwise, it should be fun to watch. Now, on to the ten best football games of the week!
College
No. 9 Ohio State at No. 20 Iowa
This game looked far more appealing a week ago than it does today. Iowa is coming off a loss at Northwestern which always seems to have their number, and is now completely out of the Big Ten title race. If this game were played last week, then we;d be talking about a potential Big Ten title or BCS berth on the line for both teams. Now, it is only one, with Ohio State being the potential team left out of the BCS with a loss here. Plus, Ohio State is very beatable, as Penn State was leading at the half last week until Ohio State trounced them. Go with Iowa, as they try to rebound and get revenge on last season's loss.
Pick: Iowa 26, Ohio State 20
No. 8 Nebraska at No. 19 Texas A&M
This could be a preview of the Big 12 title game if everything falls right. Texas A&M can light up the scoreboard versus anyone, even the "blackshirts" of Nebraska. Plus, Nebraska has been unable to stop a similar offense in Oklahoma State, and they could not even stop mighty Iowa State team, who both put up 30 or more points. However, Nebraska is still an incredibly talented team and would be in the national title conversation had they not slipped up against a very mediocre Texas team earlier in the year. So, go with the Cornhuskers.
Pick: Nebraska 42, Texas A&M 38
No. 16 Virginia Tech at No. 24 Miami (FL)
This is a game which awakes the games of past which often decided the Big East title when both teams were loacted there. Now, it will not decide the entire conference, but will decide who goes to the ACC Championship game. Miami is a tricky team to figure out, as they will continuously fool you to believe that they are good, but then let you down, as I think will happen here. Virginia Tech has reeled off eight victories in a row after their opening two losses to Boise State and James Madison. Expect Tyrod Taylor and the Hokies to continue their winning ways.
Pick: Virginia Tech 24, Miami (FL) 19
No. 13 Arkansas at No. 21 Mississippi State
The SEC West is so strong this season, as five of the six teams from that division are ranked, and it has been a dog fight, which makes it even more surprising that Auburn is undefeated coming from the SEC. Mississippi State has been a surprise team coming from the division and seem to be gaining footing with recruiting and such with Dan Mullen and his resume from Florida. Arkansas would also have a Heisman candidate with Ryan Mallett had they not lost to Alabama and Auburn. This will be a really good game, and I expect Mississippi State to pull this one out at home on senior day.
Pick: Mississippi State 34, Arkansas 23
No. 25 Florida State at Maryland
Freaky week in college football, as there are not one, but two ACC games which are worthy of this column this week shockingly enough. As mentioned earlier, the Virginia Tech/Miami game will determine the winner of the Coastal division, and this one may determine the winner of the Atlantic division. Maryland was picked last in most preview magazines, and have probably saved Ralph Friedgen's job this season with their performance. Maryland is at home, at night, on national television (ABC) for the first time in a few years, they'll get the job done against a reeling Seminole team.
Pick: Maryland 34, Florida State 17
NFL
Chicago at Miami
While many would consider Chicago to be a fraudulent 6-3 team, the fact is they are still 6-3 and on top of the NFC North. Chicago has done it with a makeshift offensive line and then with the two pedigrees of a winning team: running game and defense. Miami is down to its third string quarterback Tyler Thigpen and then signed (gulp) Patrick Ramsey as their backup this week to replace both Chad Henne and Chad Pennington who both ended their seasons, and for the latter Chad probably his career last week. Miami finally won a game at home last week with some good defense and the wildcat. As with most Thursday games, take the home team.
Pick: Miami 24, Chicago 20
Oakland at Pittsburgh
However shocking this is, it's true, the Oakland Raiders are in first place. Believe it or not, that is true after ten weeks in the NFL in 2010. The past eight seasons have been essentially pure hell for the Raiders and their fans, but they now seem to be working well with Tom Cable as the head coach. Then, there is Pittsburgh and Ben Roethlisberger who seems to pump fake on every throw and it caused him a lot of trouble last week, as the Patriots sacked Roethlisberger five times, all on pump fakes which he does not need to make. Pittsburgh will need to have Roethlisberger get rid of the ball earlier and have Rashard Mendenhall set the table early for them to win. Pittsburgh also will need to have their new kicker actually make a few field goals, as Jeff Reed was just around 66% before the Steelers released him this week. Oakland will have to play a 10 a.m. local time game, so that is going against them even coming off a bye week, so take the Steelers.
Pick: Pittsburgh 26, Oakland 21
Atlanta at St. Louis
Atlanta is coming off a big victory last week over the Ravens which put them in the drivers seat for the NFC's number one seed and home field throughout the playoffs. St. Louis is coming off a tough loss at San Francisco, where they lost in overtime. St. Louis cannot let that game stick in their heads this week, as they do have the NFC leading Falcons coming to town. St. Louis and Sam Bradford I think will come back from that tough loss to beat the Falcons this week, as they are at home, and when dealing with the NFC West, normally take the home team and it should be a victory.
Pick: St. Louis 30, Atlanta 28
Indianapolis at New England
The classic rivalry of the decade is back, with New England trying to avenge its loss and horrible decision from last year when Belichick decided to go for it from his own 24 with two minutes left. Indianapolis is looking like a down team this season, as they are without a few key cogs in their offense, and their defense just hasn't been the same this season. New England is coming off a big win in Pittsburgh last week on Sunday night, and I think as the momentum to pull out another close win.
Pick: New England 34, Indianapolis 33
New York Giants at Philadelphia
Game of the week, no question, as both teams are vying for the top spot in the NFC East and quite possibly the entire NFC. Philadelphia is coming off a complete and utter destruction after defeating the Redskins 59-28 on Monday, and Mike Vick is looking completely unstoppable at the moment. New York is coming off a stunning loss at home to the lowly Cowboys, and losing convincingly 33-20. New York was considered a top five team going into the game, and now could be considered outside of the top ten now. But, Tom Coughlin will regroup his team and get them ready to play. Philadelphia historically has had difficulty on Sunday Night, but I think with Vick in at quarterback, they will play tough and eek out a win.
Pick: Philadelphia 31, New York 28
Enjoy the weekend!
Thursday, November 11, 2010
10 Best Football Games in Week 10!
Ahhh...yes, week 10, 10 more games to fill your appetite for football this weekend. The NFL starts its Thursday game package this week with a very enticing intraconference game between the Ravens and the Falcons, but college football is looking fairly paltry this weekend, with a few notable exceptions.
But, first, allow me to get to the biggest story of the week, and my opinion on it. That story would be the firing of Wade Phillips as head coach in Dallas. First, it had to be done, as the Cowboys are the second worst team in the NFL right now, just ahead of the winless Buffalo Bills. The Cowboys failed to live up to their lofty expectations of being possibly the first team ever to host a Super Bowl in their own stadium. But, that did not happen, and now Jerry Jones' hand was kind of forced into giving the head coaching job to offensive coordinator Jason Garrett. Garrett was one of the hottest head coaching prospects in the game a few years ago, and the Cowboys then panicked and gave Garrett head coaching money for a coordinator (around three million.) Garrett's offense is in the bottom quarter of the league in nearly every offensive statistic, and Garrett was probably going to get the head coaching job anyway after the season was done, regardless of what the Cowboys did this season. Garrett needs to prove his worth throughout the upcoming seven weeks, and if he does make some type of movement, then the Cowboys will probably retain him. If the Cowboys do not improve, then the Cowboys will bring in another head coach with a lot of cache, and hope he turns it around in Dallas. Personally, I hope that does not happen.
College
No. 23 South Carolina at No. 22 Florida
As noted above, the college landscape does not look too good, with the exception of this game, which will determine who gets to face Auburn in the SEC title game. Steve Spurrier would love nothing more than to go into his old stomping grounds and get this win, as it would be the first time South Carolina ever got into the SEC title game. South Carolina has been scuffling as of late, but they have been facing some good teams, this one is good too, but not as good as the other teams they have been facing. Lattimore and Garcia lead the Gamecocks to Atlanta.
Pick: South Carolina 34, Florida 30
Penn State at No. 9 Ohio State
Penn State has been holding their heads high the past two weeks, as Mike McGloin has been leading the Penn State offense to some fairly gaudy numbers over Michigan and Northwestern. But, will that trend continue in Columbus? That would be an emphatic no, as Ohio State is still the class of the Big Ten.
Pick: Ohio State 45, Penn State 14
No. 19 Mississippi State at No. 12 Alabama
This is a good SEC West game when looking at the rankings, but let's not kid ourselves here, Alabama is still an incredibly talented football team who just barely lost to LSU a week ago, and got knocked out by the potential SEC Esat champion South Carolina. Mississippi State is a nice story, and will continue to improve under the tutelage of Dan Mullen, but they are not going to come close here.
Pick: Alabama 38, Miss. St. 20
No. 10 Oklahoma State at Texas
Look at how far the two biggest football teams in Texas have fallen this year. Dallas Cowboys were in the playoffs last year, and won a game, and now are 1-8. The Texas Longhorns were in the national title game last year and are on the verge of not making a bowl game, as crazy as that may be. Texas still has a ton of talent, but they have not been able to work as a team thus far this season. I don't think pull it together versus an up and coming Oklahoma State team, with an incredibly good wide receiver in Justin Blackmon to throw it to
Pick: Oklahoma State 31, Texas 17
Georgia at No. 2 Auburn
With all of the allegations surrounding Cam Newton and the Auburn program, this very well could be a game which the Tigers could lose. Especially since star receiver A.J. Green is back for the Bulldogs, as Georgia has won four of their past five, and the one loss came in overtime, to Florida. Then again, those four wins also came against teams with a combined record of 17-29, not too pretty. Expect Auburn to come into this game wanting to focus and keep Newton ahead in the Heisman race.
Pick: Auburn 41, Georgia 20
NFL
Baltimore at Atlanta
Well, this is the premier game of the weekend in the NFL, which consists of two teams with the best record in the league going at it. Baltimore has a high octane offense with its contingent of receivers and Ray Rice. Then, there is Matt Ryan, who is nearly unstoppable at home, as he has lost once at home, in 2008 to the Broncos. Plus, Atlanta's losses have come against two very good teams, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. Take the Falcons, only because they are at home, if this was in Baltimore, go easily with the Ravens.
Pick: Atlanta 23, Baltimore 20
Tennessee at Miami
Miami is the toughest team to figure out in the NFL, they will play amazing on the road, but at home, not play nearly as well. I have no idea what to make of this team, and now they have benched Chad Henne in favor of Chad Pennington, who has not started a game since September of last season. I am not expecting much out of the move, but it should be interesting to see if the Dolphins will run the ball more. Tennessee, on the other hand is coming off a bye week, which they picked up Randy Moss, who should help the Titans passing game greatly, especially with Kenny Britt being out for at least one more game with a hamstring injury. Stick with the new look Titans.
Pick: Tennessee 34, Miami 28
Houston at Jacksonville
This game is intriguing, as both teams are only one game back of the AFC South lead, surprisingly enough. But, as is usually the case, I'll go with the team which is home, and coming off of a bye, and that team here is the Jaguars.
Pick: Jacksonville 26, Houston 21
New England at Pittsburgh
This is probably the second most intriguing game on the docket, as this also features two 6-2 teams vying for the top spot in the AFC. Pittsburgh has been on a roll since Ben Roethlisberger got back a few weeks ago, only losing one game, and that was to the defending Super Bowl champions. Pittsburgh seems to be running on all cylinders, with their defense continuing to shut down running games, and the passing and running games continuing to perform well. New England on the other hand, has been just as good, and this game is looking to be like a tight one to the final minute.
Pick: Pittsburgh 27, New England 22
Philadelphia at Washington
Donovan McNabb was benched two weeks ago in favor of Rex Grossman, which is quite possibly one of the dumbest moves ever by Mike Shanahan. Donovan will come back and perform very well again in his second game against his former team come Monday night. But, I don't think it will be enough to derail the Eagles, who must be brimming with confidence after their defeat of the Colts, and with Mike Vick back under center, his mobility should allow the Eagles to continue to move downfield and score at will. Plus, it seems as if these two teams are headed in opposite directions at the moment, Eagles up, Washington down.
Pick: Philadelphia 34, Washington 23
Enjoy the football weekend, and allow us to remember our soldiers this Veterans Day, who have given their lives, so we can remain free to do whatever we please, including worship Jesus!
But, first, allow me to get to the biggest story of the week, and my opinion on it. That story would be the firing of Wade Phillips as head coach in Dallas. First, it had to be done, as the Cowboys are the second worst team in the NFL right now, just ahead of the winless Buffalo Bills. The Cowboys failed to live up to their lofty expectations of being possibly the first team ever to host a Super Bowl in their own stadium. But, that did not happen, and now Jerry Jones' hand was kind of forced into giving the head coaching job to offensive coordinator Jason Garrett. Garrett was one of the hottest head coaching prospects in the game a few years ago, and the Cowboys then panicked and gave Garrett head coaching money for a coordinator (around three million.) Garrett's offense is in the bottom quarter of the league in nearly every offensive statistic, and Garrett was probably going to get the head coaching job anyway after the season was done, regardless of what the Cowboys did this season. Garrett needs to prove his worth throughout the upcoming seven weeks, and if he does make some type of movement, then the Cowboys will probably retain him. If the Cowboys do not improve, then the Cowboys will bring in another head coach with a lot of cache, and hope he turns it around in Dallas. Personally, I hope that does not happen.
College
No. 23 South Carolina at No. 22 Florida
As noted above, the college landscape does not look too good, with the exception of this game, which will determine who gets to face Auburn in the SEC title game. Steve Spurrier would love nothing more than to go into his old stomping grounds and get this win, as it would be the first time South Carolina ever got into the SEC title game. South Carolina has been scuffling as of late, but they have been facing some good teams, this one is good too, but not as good as the other teams they have been facing. Lattimore and Garcia lead the Gamecocks to Atlanta.
Pick: South Carolina 34, Florida 30
Penn State at No. 9 Ohio State
Penn State has been holding their heads high the past two weeks, as Mike McGloin has been leading the Penn State offense to some fairly gaudy numbers over Michigan and Northwestern. But, will that trend continue in Columbus? That would be an emphatic no, as Ohio State is still the class of the Big Ten.
Pick: Ohio State 45, Penn State 14
No. 19 Mississippi State at No. 12 Alabama
This is a good SEC West game when looking at the rankings, but let's not kid ourselves here, Alabama is still an incredibly talented football team who just barely lost to LSU a week ago, and got knocked out by the potential SEC Esat champion South Carolina. Mississippi State is a nice story, and will continue to improve under the tutelage of Dan Mullen, but they are not going to come close here.
Pick: Alabama 38, Miss. St. 20
No. 10 Oklahoma State at Texas
Look at how far the two biggest football teams in Texas have fallen this year. Dallas Cowboys were in the playoffs last year, and won a game, and now are 1-8. The Texas Longhorns were in the national title game last year and are on the verge of not making a bowl game, as crazy as that may be. Texas still has a ton of talent, but they have not been able to work as a team thus far this season. I don't think pull it together versus an up and coming Oklahoma State team, with an incredibly good wide receiver in Justin Blackmon to throw it to
Pick: Oklahoma State 31, Texas 17
Georgia at No. 2 Auburn
With all of the allegations surrounding Cam Newton and the Auburn program, this very well could be a game which the Tigers could lose. Especially since star receiver A.J. Green is back for the Bulldogs, as Georgia has won four of their past five, and the one loss came in overtime, to Florida. Then again, those four wins also came against teams with a combined record of 17-29, not too pretty. Expect Auburn to come into this game wanting to focus and keep Newton ahead in the Heisman race.
Pick: Auburn 41, Georgia 20
NFL
Baltimore at Atlanta
Well, this is the premier game of the weekend in the NFL, which consists of two teams with the best record in the league going at it. Baltimore has a high octane offense with its contingent of receivers and Ray Rice. Then, there is Matt Ryan, who is nearly unstoppable at home, as he has lost once at home, in 2008 to the Broncos. Plus, Atlanta's losses have come against two very good teams, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. Take the Falcons, only because they are at home, if this was in Baltimore, go easily with the Ravens.
Pick: Atlanta 23, Baltimore 20
Tennessee at Miami
Miami is the toughest team to figure out in the NFL, they will play amazing on the road, but at home, not play nearly as well. I have no idea what to make of this team, and now they have benched Chad Henne in favor of Chad Pennington, who has not started a game since September of last season. I am not expecting much out of the move, but it should be interesting to see if the Dolphins will run the ball more. Tennessee, on the other hand is coming off a bye week, which they picked up Randy Moss, who should help the Titans passing game greatly, especially with Kenny Britt being out for at least one more game with a hamstring injury. Stick with the new look Titans.
Pick: Tennessee 34, Miami 28
Houston at Jacksonville
This game is intriguing, as both teams are only one game back of the AFC South lead, surprisingly enough. But, as is usually the case, I'll go with the team which is home, and coming off of a bye, and that team here is the Jaguars.
Pick: Jacksonville 26, Houston 21
New England at Pittsburgh
This is probably the second most intriguing game on the docket, as this also features two 6-2 teams vying for the top spot in the AFC. Pittsburgh has been on a roll since Ben Roethlisberger got back a few weeks ago, only losing one game, and that was to the defending Super Bowl champions. Pittsburgh seems to be running on all cylinders, with their defense continuing to shut down running games, and the passing and running games continuing to perform well. New England on the other hand, has been just as good, and this game is looking to be like a tight one to the final minute.
Pick: Pittsburgh 27, New England 22
Philadelphia at Washington
Donovan McNabb was benched two weeks ago in favor of Rex Grossman, which is quite possibly one of the dumbest moves ever by Mike Shanahan. Donovan will come back and perform very well again in his second game against his former team come Monday night. But, I don't think it will be enough to derail the Eagles, who must be brimming with confidence after their defeat of the Colts, and with Mike Vick back under center, his mobility should allow the Eagles to continue to move downfield and score at will. Plus, it seems as if these two teams are headed in opposite directions at the moment, Eagles up, Washington down.
Pick: Philadelphia 34, Washington 23
Enjoy the football weekend, and allow us to remember our soldiers this Veterans Day, who have given their lives, so we can remain free to do whatever we please, including worship Jesus!
Thursday, November 4, 2010
10 Best Football Games Week 9!
It's November, which means that the NFL has reached its halfway point and we are finding out who is playoff material and which teams are not. While college football now only has five undefeated teams, and at least one more will fall Saturday in the marquee game of the weekend, college or pro. Without further ado, here are the 10 best games of the weekend.
College
No. 3 Texas Christian at No. 5 Utah
As noted in the prologue, this is the biggest game of the weekend, as both teams are undefeated, and the winner still has a shot at the national title game. The loser can kiss the following goodbye: the Mountain West championship, the shot for a national title, and a BCS bowl appearance. So, essentially, this has an all or nothing vibe going for it. TCU has been crushing it's opponents by over 30 points a game, and Utah has been blowing teams out as well, being third in points per game. So, I'm expecting a very tight contest, with TCU pulling it out and strengthening itself and positioning itself for a possible berth in the title game.
Pick: TCU 31, Utah 23
No. 6 Alabama at No. 10 LSU
Nick Saban comes back to LSU, the place he abandoned to leave for the "greener pastures" of the NFL. Well, Saban didn't do so well there, so he went back to the college ranks and to one of LSU's biggest rivals and led them to a national title. The winner of this game has represented the SEC West in the conference title game each of the past five seasons and it's looking it could unfold that way again here. This is going to be a great game, and I'm expecting the mad hatter, Les Miles to get a little help from his friend down in hades to win this game. (See Pat Forde's Forde yard dash on espn.com for the reference.)
Pick: LSU 23, Alabama 21
No 15 Arizona at No. 13 Stanford
Stanford only has one loss on the season, and it came to the number one team in the nation right now, the Oregon Ducks. Stanford hung in there for three quarters too, before Oregon pulled away at the last second. I'm thinking that despite what the rankings may say, Stanford is the second best team in an awfully strong Pac-10 by a mile, and Andrew Luck should still be considered for the Heisman.
Pick: Stanford 47, Arizona 24
No. 21 Baylor at No 17 Oklahoma State
Please comment on this post if anyone had Baylor in the mix for the Big 12 South title the first Saturday in November. I'm willing to bet nobody did, and that this game is controlling their destiny for the chance to meet Nebraska in the Big 12 title game. Oklahoma State and their offense blows away Baylor led by Kendall Hunter.
Pick: Oklahoma State 45, Baylor 40
No. 18 Arkansas at No. 19 South Carolina
This would be an enticing matchup for the SEC title game, but Arkansas is way too far out of it in the SEC West for this game to matter as far as a preview of the SEC title game. But, South Carolina is controlling it's own destiny in the SEC East and could very easily be there. Go with Stephen Garcia and the Gamecocks.
Pick: South Carolina 26, Arkansas 20
NFL
Indianapolis at Philadelphia
Philadelphia is undefeated under Andy Reid following a bye week plus Michael Vick is coming back after a few weeks off due to broken rib cartilage. Indy has not been the same team as it has been in years past. I'll be a homer and the rational thinking tells me to go with the Eagles.
Pick: Philadelphia 27, Indianapolis 17
Tampa Bay at Atlanta
This is a game for the NFC South lead believe it or not. Atlanta is also coming off of a bye, and they are at home, which is a recipe for success. Plus, Tampa is coming off a very hard fought game against Arizona where they lost a big lead then came back to win in the fourth quarter, so while their stats may not say much, they are still a very good team and can be a threat down the stretch.
Pick: Atlanta 31, Tampa Bay 21
Miami at Baltimore
Miami is a weird team, as they have narrowly won all four of their games on the road, but none of their games at home thus far. I do not expect that trend to continue this week, as Baltimore is in the same position as the previous two games this week. Baltimore is home and coming off of a bye, that should equal another win.
Pick: Baltimore 30, Miami 20
New York Giants at Seattle
This is a game between division leaders believe it or not. But, the only reason for that is because the NFC West is that bad of a division. Seattle just got shellacked by the improving Raiders, but it's still the Oakland Raiders, who have completely stunk over the past seven seasons. New York is coming in with a great defense and have quite possibly saved Tom Coughlin's job to this point. I'm expecting more of the same since Matt Hasselbeck, the Seattle quarterback is out with a concussion. Plus, Charlie Whitehurst is making his first ever NFL start. Welcome to the NFL kid.
Pick: New York Giants 38, Seattle 10
Kansas City at Oakland
Now, please comment if you had the Oakland Raiders fighting for the playoffs come the first Sunday in November, because I'm guessing nobody had that either, instead of the Raiders thinking who they should pick with another top 10 pick in the draft. Tom Cable and Todd Haley are leading candidates for coach of the year thus far, and rightfully so. Haley brought in Thomas Jones who was let go by the Jets and has been very successful in a platoon with Jamaal Charles. Then Cable has been doing a terrific job with the Raiders, as they have been picking up steam the past few weeks, completely destroying a division rival in Denver and then beating down a good Seattle team. I'm expecting a slugfest and a hard fought running first game with these two teams.
Pick: Kansas City 28, Oakland 24
Have a good weekend watching football and be sure to check out my October game of the month as well!
College
No. 3 Texas Christian at No. 5 Utah
As noted in the prologue, this is the biggest game of the weekend, as both teams are undefeated, and the winner still has a shot at the national title game. The loser can kiss the following goodbye: the Mountain West championship, the shot for a national title, and a BCS bowl appearance. So, essentially, this has an all or nothing vibe going for it. TCU has been crushing it's opponents by over 30 points a game, and Utah has been blowing teams out as well, being third in points per game. So, I'm expecting a very tight contest, with TCU pulling it out and strengthening itself and positioning itself for a possible berth in the title game.
Pick: TCU 31, Utah 23
No. 6 Alabama at No. 10 LSU
Nick Saban comes back to LSU, the place he abandoned to leave for the "greener pastures" of the NFL. Well, Saban didn't do so well there, so he went back to the college ranks and to one of LSU's biggest rivals and led them to a national title. The winner of this game has represented the SEC West in the conference title game each of the past five seasons and it's looking it could unfold that way again here. This is going to be a great game, and I'm expecting the mad hatter, Les Miles to get a little help from his friend down in hades to win this game. (See Pat Forde's Forde yard dash on espn.com for the reference.)
Pick: LSU 23, Alabama 21
No 15 Arizona at No. 13 Stanford
Stanford only has one loss on the season, and it came to the number one team in the nation right now, the Oregon Ducks. Stanford hung in there for three quarters too, before Oregon pulled away at the last second. I'm thinking that despite what the rankings may say, Stanford is the second best team in an awfully strong Pac-10 by a mile, and Andrew Luck should still be considered for the Heisman.
Pick: Stanford 47, Arizona 24
No. 21 Baylor at No 17 Oklahoma State
Please comment on this post if anyone had Baylor in the mix for the Big 12 South title the first Saturday in November. I'm willing to bet nobody did, and that this game is controlling their destiny for the chance to meet Nebraska in the Big 12 title game. Oklahoma State and their offense blows away Baylor led by Kendall Hunter.
Pick: Oklahoma State 45, Baylor 40
No. 18 Arkansas at No. 19 South Carolina
This would be an enticing matchup for the SEC title game, but Arkansas is way too far out of it in the SEC West for this game to matter as far as a preview of the SEC title game. But, South Carolina is controlling it's own destiny in the SEC East and could very easily be there. Go with Stephen Garcia and the Gamecocks.
Pick: South Carolina 26, Arkansas 20
NFL
Indianapolis at Philadelphia
Philadelphia is undefeated under Andy Reid following a bye week plus Michael Vick is coming back after a few weeks off due to broken rib cartilage. Indy has not been the same team as it has been in years past. I'll be a homer and the rational thinking tells me to go with the Eagles.
Pick: Philadelphia 27, Indianapolis 17
Tampa Bay at Atlanta
This is a game for the NFC South lead believe it or not. Atlanta is also coming off of a bye, and they are at home, which is a recipe for success. Plus, Tampa is coming off a very hard fought game against Arizona where they lost a big lead then came back to win in the fourth quarter, so while their stats may not say much, they are still a very good team and can be a threat down the stretch.
Pick: Atlanta 31, Tampa Bay 21
Miami at Baltimore
Miami is a weird team, as they have narrowly won all four of their games on the road, but none of their games at home thus far. I do not expect that trend to continue this week, as Baltimore is in the same position as the previous two games this week. Baltimore is home and coming off of a bye, that should equal another win.
Pick: Baltimore 30, Miami 20
New York Giants at Seattle
This is a game between division leaders believe it or not. But, the only reason for that is because the NFC West is that bad of a division. Seattle just got shellacked by the improving Raiders, but it's still the Oakland Raiders, who have completely stunk over the past seven seasons. New York is coming in with a great defense and have quite possibly saved Tom Coughlin's job to this point. I'm expecting more of the same since Matt Hasselbeck, the Seattle quarterback is out with a concussion. Plus, Charlie Whitehurst is making his first ever NFL start. Welcome to the NFL kid.
Pick: New York Giants 38, Seattle 10
Kansas City at Oakland
Now, please comment if you had the Oakland Raiders fighting for the playoffs come the first Sunday in November, because I'm guessing nobody had that either, instead of the Raiders thinking who they should pick with another top 10 pick in the draft. Tom Cable and Todd Haley are leading candidates for coach of the year thus far, and rightfully so. Haley brought in Thomas Jones who was let go by the Jets and has been very successful in a platoon with Jamaal Charles. Then Cable has been doing a terrific job with the Raiders, as they have been picking up steam the past few weeks, completely destroying a division rival in Denver and then beating down a good Seattle team. I'm expecting a slugfest and a hard fought running first game with these two teams.
Pick: Kansas City 28, Oakland 24
Have a good weekend watching football and be sure to check out my October game of the month as well!
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
October game of the month!
With the baseball playoffs, the NFL, college football, and the NHL regular season all happening this month, you'd think there would be plenty of games to choose from, but surprisingly, there has only been one which stands out.
That game is game 2 of the National League Division Series between the Atlanta Braves and San Francisco Giants. The game was very good, with a few bursts of scoring occurring throughout the game. In the first inning, Pat Burrell sent a ball over the left field fence to make it a seemingly insurmountable 3-0 lead. The reason why it was seemingly insurmountable for the Braves is because they had not scored in game one, and with another tough pitcher in Matt Cain on the mound in game two, it was going to be tough. Then another blow came in the second inning when the pitcher, Cain singled in a run to make it 4-0 Giants.
It still looked bleak for the Braves even when Brian McCann singled in Derrek Lee in the 6th inning. The eighth inning then was the breakthrough the Braves looked for, when the Braves got to San Francisco relievers Sergio Romo and Brian Wilson, the Giants closer. The Braves then scored on a throwing error by Pablo Sandoval and then on a big double by Alex Gonzalez who was 0-6 going into that at bat.
After that shaky inning, Wilson then retired the next few batters via strikeout and the game then went into extra innings. Both teams by this time were down to their last pitchers, with Kyle Farnsworth for the Braves and Ramon Ramirez for the Giants, it was about to be a battle of wills and which pitcher can go the farthest.
But, Rick Ankiel in the 11th inning hit a majestic homer into McCovey Cove for the game winning homer and the Braves only win in the series.
Granted, I know this is biased, but I also thought that it was a terrific game and was filled with tension.
That game is game 2 of the National League Division Series between the Atlanta Braves and San Francisco Giants. The game was very good, with a few bursts of scoring occurring throughout the game. In the first inning, Pat Burrell sent a ball over the left field fence to make it a seemingly insurmountable 3-0 lead. The reason why it was seemingly insurmountable for the Braves is because they had not scored in game one, and with another tough pitcher in Matt Cain on the mound in game two, it was going to be tough. Then another blow came in the second inning when the pitcher, Cain singled in a run to make it 4-0 Giants.
It still looked bleak for the Braves even when Brian McCann singled in Derrek Lee in the 6th inning. The eighth inning then was the breakthrough the Braves looked for, when the Braves got to San Francisco relievers Sergio Romo and Brian Wilson, the Giants closer. The Braves then scored on a throwing error by Pablo Sandoval and then on a big double by Alex Gonzalez who was 0-6 going into that at bat.
After that shaky inning, Wilson then retired the next few batters via strikeout and the game then went into extra innings. Both teams by this time were down to their last pitchers, with Kyle Farnsworth for the Braves and Ramon Ramirez for the Giants, it was about to be a battle of wills and which pitcher can go the farthest.
But, Rick Ankiel in the 11th inning hit a majestic homer into McCovey Cove for the game winning homer and the Braves only win in the series.
Granted, I know this is biased, but I also thought that it was a terrific game and was filled with tension.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Tweeted Picks for week 8!
As you can see, I'm doing tweeted picks this week, as it's been a depressing week for me personally, and in the sports world for me. But, if you do not know what twitter is, basically you put up short thoughts or links in 140 characters or less, please follow me on there @pjwalk85 if you'd like to follow me!
College
Michigan at Penn State
Rivalry game = close game. Shoelace Robinson helps Michigan escape with a win.
Pick: Michigan 34, Penn State 28
No. 1 Auburn at Ole Miss
Number one in 2010 BCS rankings + tough road game = No. 1 goes down again.
Pick: Ole Miss 26, Auburn 24
No. 2 Oregon at USC
Oregon playing probably 3rd best team in conference and on road. Plus, SC is on probation, so this will be their bowl game, winners for home
Pick: USC 48, Oregon 44
No. 5 Michigan State at No. 18 Iowa
MSU's slipper comes off this week. They've played like the '09 version of IA close calls every game, and lose eventually, they've lost now.
Pick: Iowa 27, Michigan State 20
No. 6 Mizzou at No. 14 Nebraska
Mizzou had a huge victory over then No. 1 OU, first time in 25 years, now time to go to very tough environment and have let down game.
Pick: Nebraska 30, Mizzou 26
NFL
Green Bay at New York Jets
GB had tough emotional win last week, but Jets coming off bye week, means Jets win.
Pick: Jets 28, Green Bay 13
Denver at San Francisco
Game is in London, only reason why this game made the list. Both teams horrible, but San Francisco should want it more.
Pick: San Francisco 17, Denver 13
Minnesota at New England
Brett Favre is playing horribly already and now a broken ankle = lots of opportunities for NE's defense.
Pick: New England 28, Minnesota 10
Pittsburgh at New Orleans
New Orleans looked completely awful against one of the worst teams in the NFL, CLE, and PIT is one of the best teams in the NFL right now.
Pick: Pittsburgh 31, New Orleans 17
Houston at Indianapolis
Houston ran all over Indy in week one, Indy will game plan against being gashed like that again, Peyton will play better.
Pick: Indianapolis 35, Houston 24
O, and my World Series pick: San Francisco in a sweep.
College
Michigan at Penn State
Rivalry game = close game. Shoelace Robinson helps Michigan escape with a win.
Pick: Michigan 34, Penn State 28
No. 1 Auburn at Ole Miss
Number one in 2010 BCS rankings + tough road game = No. 1 goes down again.
Pick: Ole Miss 26, Auburn 24
No. 2 Oregon at USC
Oregon playing probably 3rd best team in conference and on road. Plus, SC is on probation, so this will be their bowl game, winners for home
Pick: USC 48, Oregon 44
No. 5 Michigan State at No. 18 Iowa
MSU's slipper comes off this week. They've played like the '09 version of IA close calls every game, and lose eventually, they've lost now.
Pick: Iowa 27, Michigan State 20
No. 6 Mizzou at No. 14 Nebraska
Mizzou had a huge victory over then No. 1 OU, first time in 25 years, now time to go to very tough environment and have let down game.
Pick: Nebraska 30, Mizzou 26
NFL
Green Bay at New York Jets
GB had tough emotional win last week, but Jets coming off bye week, means Jets win.
Pick: Jets 28, Green Bay 13
Denver at San Francisco
Game is in London, only reason why this game made the list. Both teams horrible, but San Francisco should want it more.
Pick: San Francisco 17, Denver 13
Minnesota at New England
Brett Favre is playing horribly already and now a broken ankle = lots of opportunities for NE's defense.
Pick: New England 28, Minnesota 10
Pittsburgh at New Orleans
New Orleans looked completely awful against one of the worst teams in the NFL, CLE, and PIT is one of the best teams in the NFL right now.
Pick: Pittsburgh 31, New Orleans 17
Houston at Indianapolis
Houston ran all over Indy in week one, Indy will game plan against being gashed like that again, Peyton will play better.
Pick: Indianapolis 35, Houston 24
O, and my World Series pick: San Francisco in a sweep.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
10 Best Football games Week 7!
The first BCS Rankings were released on Sunday, and to no surprise, it was Oklahoma starting at number one. Wait, that is a surprise, considering that Oregon is ranked number one in both the Harris and Coaches polls, but Oklahoma beat Oregon with computers. Plus, Boise State was not in the top two of the BCS, which hopefully will change by the end of the year. But, on to the top games of the week!
College
No. 1 Oklahoma at No. 11 Missouri
This is a very tricky game for Oklahoma, as they have looked sluggish in some games thus far this season. See games versus Cincinnati, Utah State. Plus, Mizzou is flying under the radar a bit, considering that they do fall in the shadow of the Big 12 south lying in the North division, and Blaine Gabbert seems to be having a fantastic season, and with the presence of College Gameday, the crowd is going to be even more amp'd up for this game. Prepare for the number one team to go down on the road again.
Pick: Mizzou 34, Oklahoma 24
No. 6 LSU at No. 4 Auburn
Cam Newton is Florida's loss, but Auburn's gain. Newton was on the Florida roster last year but got cut from the team for allegedly stealing a classmate's laptop and then throwing it out the window once police came to investigate. Newton has 25 total touchdowns this season and is quickly becoming the leading candidate for the Heisman trophy, but he has yet to face a defense as fierce as LSU's. LSU cannot do a whole lot on offense, but they have their own Heisman candidate in their own right with Patrick Peterson, the dynamic returner/cornerback who can stop Newton when throwing the ball. LSU will not quite have enough to stop Newton, as this game is at home for Auburn.
Pick: Auburn 23, LSU 18
No. 13 Wisconsin at No. 15 Iowa
This should be a great game between two one loss Big 10 teams, and the loser of this game will be out of the running for the Big 10 title. But, Wisconsin is coming off of a huge home win versus Ohio State and is due for a letdown game versus the Hawkeyes. Especially daunting for Wisconsin is that they must go to Iowa City, which is always a tough place to play.
Pick: Iowa 28, Wisconsin 13
No. 7 Michigan State at Northwestern
This has trap game written all over it for the Spartans. It has "trap" game written on it for four reasons. Number 1, it is at Northwestern, which is outside of Chicago and this is the first game that Michigan State has played outside of Michigan all season dating to this point. Number 2, Michigan State is going to face Iowa at Iowa next week, and could look past this game. Number 3, Northwestern has always been known as one of the worst teams in the Big 10, but they have become much better under the tutelage of former Northwestern linebacker Pat Fitzgerald. Finally number 4 is that Michigan State has a tendency to get out to very fast starts and then falling off a cliff so to speak to finish off their season. This season is seeming different for Michigan State and for that reason, I'll still pick them to win, but it will be very close.
Pick: Michigan State 23, Northwestern 21
No. 16 Nebraska at No. 14 Oklahoma State
This is looking like a very interesting game. Nebraska is coming off a tough loss against a good Texas team, and Oklahoma State is still looking good after their win against Texas Tech last week. Nebraska probably should have won against Texas last week even though they looked awful, and Oklahoma State really cannot be this good, can they? Plus, Oklahoma State needs to find a way to contain freshman sensation Taylor Martinez, which I don't think they will do.
Pick: Nebraska 31, Oklahoma State 17
Pro
Pittsburgh at Miami
Pittsburgh looked solid last week in week one of Ben Roethlisberger's return to the NFL. But, they did not look dominating versus a horrible Cleveland team. Miami, on the other hand had a good win against a sliding Green Bay team, winning in overtime. But, that was on the road and Miami has won every single game on the road thus far, losing the two they have had at home. I expect that trend to continue, as Pittsburgh is continuing to look like the class of the AFC.
Pick: Pittsburgh 27, Miami 23
Philadelphia at Tennessee
Tennessee has a "game-time" decision on which quarterback will start for them versus the Eagles come Sunday afternoon, as Vince Young suffered a sprained knee and ankle versus the Jaguars on Monday night. Kerry Collins filled in admirably for the Titans though. What the Eagles must focus on though is the league's most dynamic rusher in Chris Johnson. The Eagles have a notoriously weak running defense, and the Ttians will look to exploit that. The Eagles also have one of their most dynamic weapons in DeSean Jackson out for this game with a concussion he suffered last week versus Atlanta. The Eagles will look to their other great wide receiver Jeremy Maclin more and they should have success. The Titans will also look to continue their six game winning streak versus NFC opponents on Sunday, which I think will happen.
Pick: Tennessee 30, Philadelphia 21
New England at San Diego
New England has looked as good as ever in their first five games, going 4-1, while San Diego has gotten off to their notoriously slow start of 2-4. San Diego has reason to be concerned though, as they just have not looked all that good against lesser competition in St. Louis, Oakland and Kansas City. Granted Kansas City is in first place, but I still don't think they are for real. San Diego will need to get this win in order to have momentum going into the meat of their schedule. New England will look to continue to just move on and win games as they have done throughout the season without a whole lot of fanfare.
Tom Brady is continuing his good season without too much of a running game, and San Diego needs to stop that in order to get a much needed victory. San Diego needs to keep Philip Rivers upright and not allow him to continue to get sacked in order for them to win the game. I expect San Diego to win this game and build momentum into the meat of their schedule.
Pick: San Diego 23, New England 17
Minnesota at Green Bay
Brett Favre is returning to Green Bay for the second time as the enemy and I expect him to get booed even more this year than last year. But, will a win come along with like it did last year? Quite possibly, as Minnesota beat Dallas in the so called "panic bowl" last week. Green Bay on the other hand has been sliding ever since they got off to their 3-0 start, they have lost 3 in a row. Aaron Rodgers will need to rebound from these past three games for the Packers to go on and win the division as most had predicted, and I think that will start with this game.
Pick: Green Bay 34, Minnesota 23
New York Giants at Dallas
Dallas is continuing to look like a very over hyped team, with their loss to Minnesota and they are looking like an undisciplined team as well. Dallas is looking very undisciplined, as they have incurred unsportsmanlike conduct penalties in back to back weeks for celebrating touchdowns. Dallas will need to stop celebrating touchdowns and will need to start just putting wins up if they will have any chance at making the playoffs. Becoming the first team to go to the playoffs since 2004 with a 1-4 record to start out the season. New York on the other hand has looked very good this season in what was looking like a hot seat year for Tom Coughlin. Coughlin's sense of discipline has given the Giants a 4-2 start and they are a top of the NFC East. I expect the Giants to continue their winning ways on Monday.
New York 30, Dallas 20
College
No. 1 Oklahoma at No. 11 Missouri
This is a very tricky game for Oklahoma, as they have looked sluggish in some games thus far this season. See games versus Cincinnati, Utah State. Plus, Mizzou is flying under the radar a bit, considering that they do fall in the shadow of the Big 12 south lying in the North division, and Blaine Gabbert seems to be having a fantastic season, and with the presence of College Gameday, the crowd is going to be even more amp'd up for this game. Prepare for the number one team to go down on the road again.
Pick: Mizzou 34, Oklahoma 24
No. 6 LSU at No. 4 Auburn
Cam Newton is Florida's loss, but Auburn's gain. Newton was on the Florida roster last year but got cut from the team for allegedly stealing a classmate's laptop and then throwing it out the window once police came to investigate. Newton has 25 total touchdowns this season and is quickly becoming the leading candidate for the Heisman trophy, but he has yet to face a defense as fierce as LSU's. LSU cannot do a whole lot on offense, but they have their own Heisman candidate in their own right with Patrick Peterson, the dynamic returner/cornerback who can stop Newton when throwing the ball. LSU will not quite have enough to stop Newton, as this game is at home for Auburn.
Pick: Auburn 23, LSU 18
No. 13 Wisconsin at No. 15 Iowa
This should be a great game between two one loss Big 10 teams, and the loser of this game will be out of the running for the Big 10 title. But, Wisconsin is coming off of a huge home win versus Ohio State and is due for a letdown game versus the Hawkeyes. Especially daunting for Wisconsin is that they must go to Iowa City, which is always a tough place to play.
Pick: Iowa 28, Wisconsin 13
No. 7 Michigan State at Northwestern
This has trap game written all over it for the Spartans. It has "trap" game written on it for four reasons. Number 1, it is at Northwestern, which is outside of Chicago and this is the first game that Michigan State has played outside of Michigan all season dating to this point. Number 2, Michigan State is going to face Iowa at Iowa next week, and could look past this game. Number 3, Northwestern has always been known as one of the worst teams in the Big 10, but they have become much better under the tutelage of former Northwestern linebacker Pat Fitzgerald. Finally number 4 is that Michigan State has a tendency to get out to very fast starts and then falling off a cliff so to speak to finish off their season. This season is seeming different for Michigan State and for that reason, I'll still pick them to win, but it will be very close.
Pick: Michigan State 23, Northwestern 21
No. 16 Nebraska at No. 14 Oklahoma State
This is looking like a very interesting game. Nebraska is coming off a tough loss against a good Texas team, and Oklahoma State is still looking good after their win against Texas Tech last week. Nebraska probably should have won against Texas last week even though they looked awful, and Oklahoma State really cannot be this good, can they? Plus, Oklahoma State needs to find a way to contain freshman sensation Taylor Martinez, which I don't think they will do.
Pick: Nebraska 31, Oklahoma State 17
Pro
Pittsburgh at Miami
Pittsburgh looked solid last week in week one of Ben Roethlisberger's return to the NFL. But, they did not look dominating versus a horrible Cleveland team. Miami, on the other hand had a good win against a sliding Green Bay team, winning in overtime. But, that was on the road and Miami has won every single game on the road thus far, losing the two they have had at home. I expect that trend to continue, as Pittsburgh is continuing to look like the class of the AFC.
Pick: Pittsburgh 27, Miami 23
Philadelphia at Tennessee
Tennessee has a "game-time" decision on which quarterback will start for them versus the Eagles come Sunday afternoon, as Vince Young suffered a sprained knee and ankle versus the Jaguars on Monday night. Kerry Collins filled in admirably for the Titans though. What the Eagles must focus on though is the league's most dynamic rusher in Chris Johnson. The Eagles have a notoriously weak running defense, and the Ttians will look to exploit that. The Eagles also have one of their most dynamic weapons in DeSean Jackson out for this game with a concussion he suffered last week versus Atlanta. The Eagles will look to their other great wide receiver Jeremy Maclin more and they should have success. The Titans will also look to continue their six game winning streak versus NFC opponents on Sunday, which I think will happen.
Pick: Tennessee 30, Philadelphia 21
New England at San Diego
New England has looked as good as ever in their first five games, going 4-1, while San Diego has gotten off to their notoriously slow start of 2-4. San Diego has reason to be concerned though, as they just have not looked all that good against lesser competition in St. Louis, Oakland and Kansas City. Granted Kansas City is in first place, but I still don't think they are for real. San Diego will need to get this win in order to have momentum going into the meat of their schedule. New England will look to continue to just move on and win games as they have done throughout the season without a whole lot of fanfare.
Tom Brady is continuing his good season without too much of a running game, and San Diego needs to stop that in order to get a much needed victory. San Diego needs to keep Philip Rivers upright and not allow him to continue to get sacked in order for them to win the game. I expect San Diego to win this game and build momentum into the meat of their schedule.
Pick: San Diego 23, New England 17
Minnesota at Green Bay
Brett Favre is returning to Green Bay for the second time as the enemy and I expect him to get booed even more this year than last year. But, will a win come along with like it did last year? Quite possibly, as Minnesota beat Dallas in the so called "panic bowl" last week. Green Bay on the other hand has been sliding ever since they got off to their 3-0 start, they have lost 3 in a row. Aaron Rodgers will need to rebound from these past three games for the Packers to go on and win the division as most had predicted, and I think that will start with this game.
Pick: Green Bay 34, Minnesota 23
New York Giants at Dallas
Dallas is continuing to look like a very over hyped team, with their loss to Minnesota and they are looking like an undisciplined team as well. Dallas is looking very undisciplined, as they have incurred unsportsmanlike conduct penalties in back to back weeks for celebrating touchdowns. Dallas will need to stop celebrating touchdowns and will need to start just putting wins up if they will have any chance at making the playoffs. Becoming the first team to go to the playoffs since 2004 with a 1-4 record to start out the season. New York on the other hand has looked very good this season in what was looking like a hot seat year for Tom Coughlin. Coughlin's sense of discipline has given the Giants a 4-2 start and they are a top of the NFC East. I expect the Giants to continue their winning ways on Monday.
New York 30, Dallas 20
Friday, October 15, 2010
10 best football games Week 6!
Last week i went 2-3 in both the collegiate level and pros with my picks. Shows you what happens when you gloat about your greatness in picking sporting events. But, I'm looking to be back to around a 70 percent range this week.
College
No. 1 Ohio State vs.No. 16 Wisconsin
This is a tough game for Ohio State. They really haven't faced too much tough competition outside of their game versus Miami in week 2. Plus, this is only the second time they are playing on the road. Not only that, but a conference game on the road in primetime. That can very well spell disaster for a team who could be full of itself after climbing to its first number 1 ranking in over two years. Plus, Ohio State didn't play too well at Illinois, their only other road game this year. John Clay will run all over the Buckeye defense in this one.
Pick: Wisconsin 24, Ohio St. 17
Texas vs. No. 5 Nebraska
Nebraska wants to play Texas and beat them badly while on their farewell tour of the Big 12. Nebraska wants to beat the Longhorns badly because of Texas' luck during last year's title game that Nebraska should have won. There was a second put back on the clock in the game and Texas kicked a game winning field goal as that happened. Texas is a significantly weaker team this year and there is no way they can stop Taylor Martinez in this game.
Pick: Nebraska 38, Texas 20
No. 13 Arkansas vs. No. 7 Auburn
Probably the premier game on the docket this week, as both teams are fighting for the second spot in the SEC's western division. Auburn is looking to continue to run the ball and control the clock with Cam Newton. But, they narrowly escaped Kentucky last week when they ran out the clock to win the game. Arkansas is coming in off of a bye week and they are certainly looking to continue to try and make the SEC title game after their close loss to Alabama a few weeks ago.
Pick: Arkansas 28, Auburn 23
No. 24 Michigan at No. 14 Iowa
Denard Robinson struggled last week against a stout Michigan State defense who contained him, forced him to throw a lot more than usual and was rewarded with three interceptions. This week he faces an even better defense at Iowa which will spell a lot of trouble for "Shoelace" Robinson. Plus, the Michigan defense is incredibly porous, so even Iowa can put up plenty of points.
Pick: Iowa 31, Michigan 13
No. 18 Oklahoma State at Texas Tech
Oklahoma State has been a nice story thus far in the college football season, but I don't know how many more tricks they can pull out of their hat. Texas Tech on the other hand tried a surprise onside kick and it got returned for a touchdown versus Baylor. I'm not sure which team to pick here, it's going to be highly entertaining though. Both teams defenses are not very good and both teams offenses are very good.
Pick: Oklahoma State 45, Texas Tech 41
Pro
Miami at Green Bay
Both teams are coming into this game struggling, as Miami has lost two straight at home versus fellow AFC east rivals New England and New York. Green Bay is looking to come back after a loss at fellow division leader Washington. Green Bay is thankful that Aaron Rodgers has been cleared to play in the game following the concussion he suffered at Washington. Miami has looked good on the road and they are coming off of a bye, so that is a recipe for success.
Pick: Miami 21, Green Bay 16
Atlanta at Philadelphia
While Michael Vick would love to decimate his former team like he did last year in Atlanta, Vick cannot this year because of broken rib cartilage. So, Kevin Kolb will make his second consecutive start, and try to pick up where he left off last week in San Francisco. Kolb threw for 253 yards and a touchdown last week in the winning effort. Granted Atlanta is a lot better than San Francisco, as noticed by their four game winning streak. Matt Ryan and Michael Turner will be a tough test for the Eagles defense, but they will limit yardage and pull out the win.
Pick: Philadelphia 24, Atlanta 20
Baltimore at New England
This is going to be one dandy of a game and could be a preview of the AFC title game. New England will be having their first game since they traded Randy Moss, and we will see if the Patriots really miss his presence on the field. Baltimore has looked very good in every game except their game versus Cincinnati, where they lost. Baltimore has looked especially good on the ground, with Ray Rice and Willis McGahee carrying the load. New England will look to exact revenge on the Ravens for handing them their only loss at home while Brady has been at the helm.
Pick: New England 24, Baltimore 23
Dallas at Minnesota
Minnesota and Dallas have been true disappointments this year and look like a shell of their former selves last year when they met in the NFC divisional playoffs. Dallas is coming in off a tough game versus Tennessee and Minnesota is coming on off of a tough game versus the Jets in a rainstorm. Both teams can ill afford a loss, as only five teams have made it to the playoffs since 1992 starting the season 1-4 and only three even won a game in the playoffs. It's still hard at 2-3, but still manageable. Since Minnesota is at home, that is the only reason to go for them.
Pick: Minnesota 27, Dallas 14
Tennessee at Jacksonville
As mentioned in the AFC South preview column, this division is the toughest in all of the NFL. There really are no easy games and you can expect some tough grind it out football here. Jacksonville, while tarping off about 10,000 seats still has trouble selling out game but they are very competitive. They started out the season rough losing 2 of their first 3, but have bounced back taking down Indianapolis at home and then trashing the pathetic Bills in Buffalo. They have of course done that damage behind shifty running back Maurice Jones-Drew, who has over 400 yards rushing and two touchdowns. But, the Jags can also look to standout tight end Marcedes Lewis for some red zone receptions along with Mike Sims-Walker who can help with fade routes.
Tennessee is coming in off their big win versus Dallas and wants to take control of the divisional lead with Chris Johnson who had a bounce back week versus Dallas. The Titans would love to continue using Vince Young and just allow him to win games no matter how he does it, the Titans always seem to be able to win with him at the helm.
Pick: Tennessee 26, Jacksonville 17
Enjoy the weekend full of baseball and football!
College
No. 1 Ohio State vs.No. 16 Wisconsin
This is a tough game for Ohio State. They really haven't faced too much tough competition outside of their game versus Miami in week 2. Plus, this is only the second time they are playing on the road. Not only that, but a conference game on the road in primetime. That can very well spell disaster for a team who could be full of itself after climbing to its first number 1 ranking in over two years. Plus, Ohio State didn't play too well at Illinois, their only other road game this year. John Clay will run all over the Buckeye defense in this one.
Pick: Wisconsin 24, Ohio St. 17
Texas vs. No. 5 Nebraska
Nebraska wants to play Texas and beat them badly while on their farewell tour of the Big 12. Nebraska wants to beat the Longhorns badly because of Texas' luck during last year's title game that Nebraska should have won. There was a second put back on the clock in the game and Texas kicked a game winning field goal as that happened. Texas is a significantly weaker team this year and there is no way they can stop Taylor Martinez in this game.
Pick: Nebraska 38, Texas 20
No. 13 Arkansas vs. No. 7 Auburn
Probably the premier game on the docket this week, as both teams are fighting for the second spot in the SEC's western division. Auburn is looking to continue to run the ball and control the clock with Cam Newton. But, they narrowly escaped Kentucky last week when they ran out the clock to win the game. Arkansas is coming in off of a bye week and they are certainly looking to continue to try and make the SEC title game after their close loss to Alabama a few weeks ago.
Pick: Arkansas 28, Auburn 23
No. 24 Michigan at No. 14 Iowa
Denard Robinson struggled last week against a stout Michigan State defense who contained him, forced him to throw a lot more than usual and was rewarded with three interceptions. This week he faces an even better defense at Iowa which will spell a lot of trouble for "Shoelace" Robinson. Plus, the Michigan defense is incredibly porous, so even Iowa can put up plenty of points.
Pick: Iowa 31, Michigan 13
No. 18 Oklahoma State at Texas Tech
Oklahoma State has been a nice story thus far in the college football season, but I don't know how many more tricks they can pull out of their hat. Texas Tech on the other hand tried a surprise onside kick and it got returned for a touchdown versus Baylor. I'm not sure which team to pick here, it's going to be highly entertaining though. Both teams defenses are not very good and both teams offenses are very good.
Pick: Oklahoma State 45, Texas Tech 41
Pro
Miami at Green Bay
Both teams are coming into this game struggling, as Miami has lost two straight at home versus fellow AFC east rivals New England and New York. Green Bay is looking to come back after a loss at fellow division leader Washington. Green Bay is thankful that Aaron Rodgers has been cleared to play in the game following the concussion he suffered at Washington. Miami has looked good on the road and they are coming off of a bye, so that is a recipe for success.
Pick: Miami 21, Green Bay 16
Atlanta at Philadelphia
While Michael Vick would love to decimate his former team like he did last year in Atlanta, Vick cannot this year because of broken rib cartilage. So, Kevin Kolb will make his second consecutive start, and try to pick up where he left off last week in San Francisco. Kolb threw for 253 yards and a touchdown last week in the winning effort. Granted Atlanta is a lot better than San Francisco, as noticed by their four game winning streak. Matt Ryan and Michael Turner will be a tough test for the Eagles defense, but they will limit yardage and pull out the win.
Pick: Philadelphia 24, Atlanta 20
Baltimore at New England
This is going to be one dandy of a game and could be a preview of the AFC title game. New England will be having their first game since they traded Randy Moss, and we will see if the Patriots really miss his presence on the field. Baltimore has looked very good in every game except their game versus Cincinnati, where they lost. Baltimore has looked especially good on the ground, with Ray Rice and Willis McGahee carrying the load. New England will look to exact revenge on the Ravens for handing them their only loss at home while Brady has been at the helm.
Pick: New England 24, Baltimore 23
Dallas at Minnesota
Minnesota and Dallas have been true disappointments this year and look like a shell of their former selves last year when they met in the NFC divisional playoffs. Dallas is coming in off a tough game versus Tennessee and Minnesota is coming on off of a tough game versus the Jets in a rainstorm. Both teams can ill afford a loss, as only five teams have made it to the playoffs since 1992 starting the season 1-4 and only three even won a game in the playoffs. It's still hard at 2-3, but still manageable. Since Minnesota is at home, that is the only reason to go for them.
Pick: Minnesota 27, Dallas 14
Tennessee at Jacksonville
As mentioned in the AFC South preview column, this division is the toughest in all of the NFL. There really are no easy games and you can expect some tough grind it out football here. Jacksonville, while tarping off about 10,000 seats still has trouble selling out game but they are very competitive. They started out the season rough losing 2 of their first 3, but have bounced back taking down Indianapolis at home and then trashing the pathetic Bills in Buffalo. They have of course done that damage behind shifty running back Maurice Jones-Drew, who has over 400 yards rushing and two touchdowns. But, the Jags can also look to standout tight end Marcedes Lewis for some red zone receptions along with Mike Sims-Walker who can help with fade routes.
Tennessee is coming in off their big win versus Dallas and wants to take control of the divisional lead with Chris Johnson who had a bounce back week versus Dallas. The Titans would love to continue using Vince Young and just allow him to win games no matter how he does it, the Titans always seem to be able to win with him at the helm.
Pick: Tennessee 26, Jacksonville 17
Enjoy the weekend full of baseball and football!
Thursday, October 14, 2010
ALCS/NLCS Preview and prediction
Welcome to the League Championship Series, where it is the final four in baseball and things really start to get intense. We just came off of a no-hitter and the first game five since 2005 in the Division Series and now we get to see who will meet up in the World Series. Will it be a team who hasn't won it in over 50 years (Giants), a team who has never even won a postseason series before this year (Rangers, a team searching for its 29th title (Yankees) or a team who wants revenge upon last year's World Series (Phillies)? Let's move on to the previews.
NLCS Philadelphia Phillies vs San Francisco Giants
This is a very evenly matched series, with pretty much everything being a push except for two elements Number one is the lineup is shifted to the Phillies, who are loaded with great hitters nearly top to bottom. Then the other area where I think the balance is shifted is the bullpen, and that goes to the Giants. Granted Brian Wilson gave blew a save in the Division Series against the Braves, but I still think he is better than Lidge and the entire bullpen is slightly better than the Phillies.
Otherwise, this series is dead even, and it will all come down to pitching, starting pitching. Which team will score a run first will more than likely win that particular game as all of these starters have been phenomenal down the stretch and in their careers. Game one matches Tim Lincecum who threw a complete game 2-hitter and the defending Cy Young award winner versus Roy Halladay, who threw a complete game no hitter and is the likely candidate to win the award this year. that game should be a must watch for most baseball fans just for the mastery in pitching.
But, as far as games 2-4 are concerned with pitching, both are very good matchups, as it's Matt Cain versus Roy Oswalt in game 2, Cain was brilliant in game two versus the Braves, only giving up one run and Roy Oswalt wants to redeem himself from the four runs he surrendered in game 2 versus Cincinatti.
Game 3 pits two great lefties against one another with Jonathan Sanchez versus Cole Hamels. Sanchez was very good in game three versus Atlanta, having a no hitter through six innings, while Hamels pitched a 5-hit shutout versus the Reds.
Game 4 is going to be somewhat of a toss up as Joe Blanton has not pitched since late September and could be rusty. Blanton was 4-0 in the month, but now is thrust into action. Blanton faced Madison Bumgarner and he pitched well against Atlanta in game 4, only allowing two runs through six innings.
But, as mentioned the Phillies lineup seems to be stacked from top to bottom, as every person is healthy and ready to play. But, they have not been hitting up to their potential, and could easily put up seven runs a game if everyone got going. This is going to be a tough series no matter who wins, but I think with the Phillies lineup, they should be fine and win in six.
Prediction: Phillies in six.
ALCS: New York Yankees versus Texas Rangers
These teams met three times in the latter part of the 1990's and all three times the Rangers got kicked out of the playoffs in the first round. This year could be different for several reasons. One of them is Cliff Lee, who pitched brilliantly in the ALDS versus the Tampa Bay Rays and has beaten the Yankees before. See games one and five of last year's World Series for his dominance versus the Yankees for proof. Another is that this Rangers team is coming in confident after winning their first postseason game in history. Finally, this is the first time that the Rangers have had home field in the series.
The Yankees on the other hand are coming in confident as well, as they are the defending champions and are primed to do it again, as the Yankees pounded the Minnesota Twins into oblivion, scoring at least five runs in the sweep. Plus, they have a dominant number one starter in CC Sabathia and the rest of the rotation which did look shaky in the latter part of the year was good again. Plus, they have the best closer in postseason history with Mariano Rivera.
These teams met eight times in the regular season and split the series. So, it is hard to get a gauge on who has the edge where. But, I think the Yankees have the edge in every category, it is major in some areas and minor in others. Does that mean the Yankees will waltz right through this series? Probably not, as the Rangers will put up a fight though.
The Yankees edge is major when it comes to the bullpen, as previously mentioned with Rivera and a good set up man with former Indians closer Kerry Wood, who still is fooling hitters with his curve ball and blowing them away with a 96 mph fastball. It is also major when it comes to manager, as Joe Girardi led this team to a World Series in his second year managing the team and knows how to make a game plan.
The Yankees advantage is minor when it comes to lineup, defense, and starting pitching. Lineup is because the Rangers are very good and when they get on, they know how to exploit runs. Game five versus the Rays was a prime example, as the Rangers got two runs on ground balls when the runner was at second base. but, the Yankees have a bevy of talented hitters and any one can mash it out of the park. The Yankees defense is also very good, but as is the Rangers. Although the Yankees starting pitching was fairly bad during September, they looked very good in the playoff series against Minnesota and the Rangers outside of Lee are good, but not great and could be intimidated by the Yankees.
Prediction: Yankees in 6.
NLCS Philadelphia Phillies vs San Francisco Giants
This is a very evenly matched series, with pretty much everything being a push except for two elements Number one is the lineup is shifted to the Phillies, who are loaded with great hitters nearly top to bottom. Then the other area where I think the balance is shifted is the bullpen, and that goes to the Giants. Granted Brian Wilson gave blew a save in the Division Series against the Braves, but I still think he is better than Lidge and the entire bullpen is slightly better than the Phillies.
Otherwise, this series is dead even, and it will all come down to pitching, starting pitching. Which team will score a run first will more than likely win that particular game as all of these starters have been phenomenal down the stretch and in their careers. Game one matches Tim Lincecum who threw a complete game 2-hitter and the defending Cy Young award winner versus Roy Halladay, who threw a complete game no hitter and is the likely candidate to win the award this year. that game should be a must watch for most baseball fans just for the mastery in pitching.
But, as far as games 2-4 are concerned with pitching, both are very good matchups, as it's Matt Cain versus Roy Oswalt in game 2, Cain was brilliant in game two versus the Braves, only giving up one run and Roy Oswalt wants to redeem himself from the four runs he surrendered in game 2 versus Cincinatti.
Game 3 pits two great lefties against one another with Jonathan Sanchez versus Cole Hamels. Sanchez was very good in game three versus Atlanta, having a no hitter through six innings, while Hamels pitched a 5-hit shutout versus the Reds.
Game 4 is going to be somewhat of a toss up as Joe Blanton has not pitched since late September and could be rusty. Blanton was 4-0 in the month, but now is thrust into action. Blanton faced Madison Bumgarner and he pitched well against Atlanta in game 4, only allowing two runs through six innings.
But, as mentioned the Phillies lineup seems to be stacked from top to bottom, as every person is healthy and ready to play. But, they have not been hitting up to their potential, and could easily put up seven runs a game if everyone got going. This is going to be a tough series no matter who wins, but I think with the Phillies lineup, they should be fine and win in six.
Prediction: Phillies in six.
ALCS: New York Yankees versus Texas Rangers
These teams met three times in the latter part of the 1990's and all three times the Rangers got kicked out of the playoffs in the first round. This year could be different for several reasons. One of them is Cliff Lee, who pitched brilliantly in the ALDS versus the Tampa Bay Rays and has beaten the Yankees before. See games one and five of last year's World Series for his dominance versus the Yankees for proof. Another is that this Rangers team is coming in confident after winning their first postseason game in history. Finally, this is the first time that the Rangers have had home field in the series.
The Yankees on the other hand are coming in confident as well, as they are the defending champions and are primed to do it again, as the Yankees pounded the Minnesota Twins into oblivion, scoring at least five runs in the sweep. Plus, they have a dominant number one starter in CC Sabathia and the rest of the rotation which did look shaky in the latter part of the year was good again. Plus, they have the best closer in postseason history with Mariano Rivera.
These teams met eight times in the regular season and split the series. So, it is hard to get a gauge on who has the edge where. But, I think the Yankees have the edge in every category, it is major in some areas and minor in others. Does that mean the Yankees will waltz right through this series? Probably not, as the Rangers will put up a fight though.
The Yankees edge is major when it comes to the bullpen, as previously mentioned with Rivera and a good set up man with former Indians closer Kerry Wood, who still is fooling hitters with his curve ball and blowing them away with a 96 mph fastball. It is also major when it comes to manager, as Joe Girardi led this team to a World Series in his second year managing the team and knows how to make a game plan.
The Yankees advantage is minor when it comes to lineup, defense, and starting pitching. Lineup is because the Rangers are very good and when they get on, they know how to exploit runs. Game five versus the Rays was a prime example, as the Rangers got two runs on ground balls when the runner was at second base. but, the Yankees have a bevy of talented hitters and any one can mash it out of the park. The Yankees defense is also very good, but as is the Rangers. Although the Yankees starting pitching was fairly bad during September, they looked very good in the playoff series against Minnesota and the Rangers outside of Lee are good, but not great and could be intimidated by the Yankees.
Prediction: Yankees in 6.
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