10 Best Football Games-Week 18! Part 2

Now on to part two of the 10 Best Football games, as now it's time for the NFL portion of the blog. As noted in part one, 13 of the 16 games this week have playoff implications, either with seeding or getting into the playoffs. There are still three divisions up for grabs, and those are the AFC North and West, as well as the NFC East, whose winner will have less than 10 wins for the first time since the strike shortened 1982 season where the Redskins won 8 games.

Dallas at New York Giants, 8:30, NBC

Both teams haven't been very good in the second half of the season, and the Giants only two wins in the second half have come against the Cowboys and city rival Jets to eliminate the Eagles. The Cowboys have lost three of their past four, with the only win coming against the lowly Bucs. Plus, the Cowboys will have an injured Tony Romo at quarterback, due to his hand being inflammated. But, if this game is anything like the last one, it could be another chokejob by the Cowboys and a very close game.

Pick: New York 34, Dallas 33

Kansas City at Denver, 4:15, CBS

Guest - Will Rush

The debate of polarizing figure Tim Tebow has come to it's boiling point - and just in time - as the Kansas City Chiefs travel to Denver for a matchup filled with drama.  Tim Tebow vs. Kyle Orton.  Tim Tebow vs. John Elway.  Tim Tebow vs. Critics.  Tim Tebow vs....well, the world.  In a game where Tebow is playing for his football career - expect Tebow to have his emotions on his sleeve all game.  Hopefully winning the game - and more importantly - the commitment of the Denver Broncos for him as future quarterback.  I wouldn't bet against him.

Denver 24 - Kansas City 13

San Diego at Oakland, 4:15, CBS

Oakland needs this game along with a Denver loss to clinch the Western division. But, the Raiders can still get a wild card spot with a whole bunch of other things happening which is just insanely confusing. But, Oakland somehow still has a shot at the playoffs shockingly enough with their starting quarterback, Jason Campbell gone since week eight and they've also been without star running back Darren McFadden for 10 of the 16 games so far this season. Plus, Oakland is about to commit the most penalties of any team in any season if they commit three on Sunday.
But, San Diego has been playing well this season with the exception of the six game stretch in the middle of the season where they decided to lay down and nap through six games. But, with the exception of those, the team hasn't been too bad. And, they may be out to save Norv Turner's job as well as avenging their loss to Oakland when they were in the middle of their nap.

Pick: San Diego 24, Oakland 17

Baltimore at Cincinnati, 4:15, CBS

Cincy has been a definite surprise team this season, and they need this game in order to secure aspot in the playoffs. Cincy also will actually have fan support for this game, as this will be only their second sellout of the season. Cincy has a very good defense made up of a bunch of no names essentially, being in the top 12 in passing defense as well as rushing defense. But, the real surprise has been Any Dalton to A.J. Green as that combo has been lighting up the league so far.
Baltimore also needs this game in order to preserve themselves the AFC North title as well as the second seed in the AFC. Baltimore has been an excellent team at home so far this season, going 8-0 at home while only going 3-4 on the road. Baltimore has been a team of unexpected surprises so far this season, and they may have another surprise here and allow the Bengals to get into the playoffs.

Pick: Cincy 28, Baltimore 24

Detroit at Green Bay, 1, Fox

Detroit needs this game to maintain their spot as the five seed in the NFC, and that would probably be their best positioning, as they have already beaten the Cowboys in Cowboys Stadium this season in week four. Plus, the roof should be closed, and they are used to domes. Detroit may not have to face the probable MVP of the league either, as Green Bay has already clinched the number one seed in the NFC.

Pick: Detroit 34, Green Bay 21

Have a very happy and prosperous new year!

10 Best Football Games-Week 18! Part 1

The final week of the NFL regular season has plenty of games which can determine seeding and two division champions will be crowned this final week. The biggest game of the weekend is obvious, and that game is the Dallas Cowboys at New York Giants to determine the division championship. Then, in the AFC, only one of the eight games which are happening, that being the Indianapolis-Jacksonville game does not have playoff implications. Meanwhile, in the NFC, there are four other games which have some effects on the playoffs. So, it is one eventful week in the NFL as well as in college. As New Year's Day falls on a Sunday this year, all six of the normal games which fall on New Year's has been pushed back to the 2nd. Also, I will be doing a separate blog on January 2nd's sporting events, which has those six bowl games, 5 of which feature ranked teams. Then, there is the NHL Winter Classic, which features the hometown Philadelphia Flyers, 10 NBA Games, four other NHL games, and a plethora of NCAA basketball games. Now, on to the picks!

Bowls

Champs Sports Bowl
Notre Dame vs. Florida State, 5:30, Thursday, ESPN

This game is a throwback to the mid-90s when both teams were excellent. Going into this season, both teams expected to go to BCS Bowls. Notre Dame consistently shot themselves in the foot in the beginning of the season, losing their first two games by blowing leads and turning the ball over a lot. Then, ND won their next four, and were looking very good doing it. But, then they shot themselves in the foot again against USC, where they turned the ball over another three times, which turned the entire momentum of the game around.  Notre Dame then won another four straight before completely stinking against Andrew Luck and Stanford.
Florida State also was good, but never really could live up to expectations, mainly because of youth, as their biggest playmakers are freshmen. So, this game could be a big springboard for their season next year. Florida State also has a stout defense that will try and stop the running game of Cierre Wood and the passing game with dynamic receiver Michael Floyd, who has been in beast mode throughout the season. This will be a very good game, but just so long as Notre Dame doesn't shoot themselves in the foot, they should win.

Pick: Notre Dame 24, Florida State 20

Valero Alamo Bowl
Washington vs. Baylor, 9, Thursday, ESPN

This game should be a shootout, as neither team has a very good defense, and both teams have great quarterbacks. The one, most already know in Heisman trophy winner Robert Griffin III, whereas most have never heard of Keith Price, who replaced the 8th overall pick in last year's NFL draft, Jake Locker. Well, Price could be as good or better than Locker. Both quarterbacks are dynamic and dual threats with both their arms and legs. So, expect a lot of points, and perhaps even more than yesterday's Toledo-Air Force Military Bowl.

Pick: Baylor 54, Washington 52

Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl
BYU vs. Tulsa, noon, Friday, ESPN

Now these may be the two best teams which are not ranked, as BYU is playing its first season as an independent after spending the past 14 in the Mountain West conference. Then, Tulsa was second in the C-USA's West division, their only loss coming against eventual winner Houston, who was undefeated at the time. Tulsa also had all four of its losses to a team which was ranked in the top 10 when they played them. Those four losses? The aforementioned Houston, Boise State, Oklahoma State and their season opener against Oklahoma. So, this team is pretty good. BYU meanwhile is very much like a pro style team, possessing a balanced offense which averages over 30 points a game, and only giving up a little over 20 a game. This should be one very competitive as well as entertaining game.

Pick: Tulsa 31, BYU 27

Hyundai Sun Bowl
Georgia Tech vs. Utah, 2, Saturday, CBS

There is primarily one reason I'm featuring this game, and that is because it is actually on network television! This is only one of four which is featured on network tv, the others being the Outback Bowl, the AutoZone Liberty Bowl, and the AT&T Cotton Bowl Classic. This game also is rather intriguing, as Utah comes into the game on a hot streak, going 4-1 down the stretch. They also had a shot to win the PAC-12's woeful South division before losing to Colorado in their season finale. Utah won primarily because of an easier schedule, with only one of their victories coming against a team which is bowl bound, and that's only because of a special waiver by the NCAA in November to allow them to play in the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl.
Georgia Tech meanwhile started off the season 6-0, then proceeded to lose four of their next six. Now, they're playing in the Sun Bowl as a consequence. Now that Utah has had time to prepare for this game, they should win, as when teams have time to prepare for the infamous triple option of Tech.

Pick: Utah 31, Tech 23

Chick-Fil-A Bowl
Auburn vs. Virginia, 7:30, Saturday, ESPN

This is a good matchup between fairly overacheiving teams, but I will go with the Tigers, who really overacheived moreso than the Cavaliers.

Pick: Auburn 26, Virginia 13

10 Best Football Games-Week 17!

The Bowl games are gearing up for much better match ups and there are starting to be schools which folks have actually heard of this coming week, like Boise State, Arizona State, Texas, and Mizzou. There are six bowls coming up this week, and I'm only previewing five, as really, please tell me who really is excited for the Little Caesars Bowl between Western Michigan and Purdue, a very mediocre MAC school and a poor Big Ten school.
Then, in the NFL, there are several clinching scenarios, which involve home field and division and playoff implications. Some of those scenarios in the NFC include Dallas clinching the East with a win and a Giants loss, Green Bay clinching home-field advantage throughout with a win, San Francisco clinching a first round bye with a win, and Atlanta and Detroit clinching playoff spots with a win.
Then, in the AFC, some of the clinching scenarios include: New England clinching a first round bye with a win and Houston loss, Baltimore clinching the North with a win and Pittsburgh loss, and Denver clinching the West with a win and Oakland loss. So, there are a lot of clinching scenarios, and some pretty good games heading into the penultimate weekend of the regular season. Now, on to the picks!

Bowls

Maaco Bowl Las Vegas
Arizona State vs. #7 Boise State, Thursday, 8, ESPN

Boise State should roll over the Sun Devils in this game due to a multitude of factors. The first being that Boise  is first of all, is a much better team than ASU. Secondly, Kellen Moore is looking to become the first quarterback in the history of division 1-A football to reach 50 victories, and should be a second round draft choice like Andy Dalton. Thirdly, Arizona State just fired their coach, so they don't have much momentum heading into this game.

Pick: Boise 51, ASU 12

Sheraton Hawaii Bowl
Nevada vs. #21 Southern Miss, Saturday, 8, ESPN

Nevada is not the same team it was last year, when it beat Boise State for the WAC title and had a master of the pistol offense in Colin Kapernick. But, they fared decently in a depleted WAC, finishing second in total defense, only averaging 372 yards a game. The Wolf Pack are led by defensive tackle Brett Roy, who led the  WAC in sacks and tackles for loss. Southern Miss meanwhile, stopped Houston's run towards a BCS berth and got the C-USA title in the title game, at Houston. So, they have momentum on their side, and a fantastic offense, led by second leading passer Austin Davis in the C-USA, and Davis has passed the legendary Brett Favre in all passing categories at Southern Miss, which is an impressive feat. This game should be close, and a good way to close out your football Christmas Eve.
Info: http://espn.go.com/ncf/preview?gameId=313582572

Pick: Southern Miss 27, Nevada 21

AdvoCare V100 Independence Bowl in Shreveport, LA
Mizzou vs. North Carolina, 5, ESPN2

This is a game between two very middling teams in their respective conferences, Mizzou in the Big 12, and North Carolina from the ACC. Mizzou is going to have a very tough time next season in the SEC, after their transfer from the Big 12. Both schools had trying seasons, with Mizzou losing its running back, Henry Josey tore two ligaments. Josey was a great back, as he ran for nearly 1200 yards and nine touchdowns. Mizzou also lost its head coach, Gary Pinkel for a game, due to a drunken driving charge.
North Carolina meanwhile, had to deal with all of the headaches that came with all of the allegations that were laid upon them. That forced the firing of Butch Davis, who was leading the school on the up and up in the ACC. North Carolina has two very good skill position players in running back Giovanni Bernard and wide receiver Dwight Jones. So, this will be a good matchup, should feature a lot of offense.
Info: http://espn.go.com/ncf/preview?gameId=313600153

Pick: North Carolina 26, Mizzou 24

Belk Bowl, Charlotte, NC
Louisville vs. NC State, 8, ESPN, Tuesday

This game is rather easy for me to pick, as NC State is essentially playing a home game, and coming from a much better conference than Louisville in the ACC over the Big East. Therefore, gotta go with the Wolfpack.

Pick: NC State 28, Louisville 23

Bridgepoint Holiday Bowl
Cal vs. #24 Texas, 8, ESPN, Wednesday

This bowl has traditionally been one of the better bowls headed into the New Year, normally between two ranked teams. But, as the Pac-12 was down this year, and Cal was a prime example of that, only going 7-5 on the season. Texas also was down this year, only going 7-5 as well. Texas has had its difficulties choosing which quarterback to start in some games, whether it be Case McCoy or David Ash. Texas started out very strong, going 4-0, but has gone 3-5 since, finishing up yet another disappointing season. Cal, on the other hand, has gone 3-1 in its final four games, led by the backfield of Zach Maynard and Isi Sofele. Those two have definitely been helping Cal finish out the season strong, and with them playing in their home state, go with the Bears.

Pick: Cal 31, Texas 21

NFL
Note: All Games previewed are on Saturday, unless otherwise noted.

New York Giants at New York Jets, 1, Fox

Both of these teams need this win, otherwise, they're essentially eliminated from playoff contention. The Giants need it more though, as if they lose, and Dallas wins, as mentioned above, they are eliminated from playoff contention. The Jets still could get in if Cincy loses and they win next week. Both teams are coming off bad losses, the Jets last week to the suddenly fighting Eagles, and the Giants lost to the woeful Redskins. The Giants have also been going on their seemingly annual second half collapse, going 1-5 in their past six games. However, they have been tough losses, sans for last week. I think the Giants will have enough to pull it out though, and eliminate the Eagles from playoff contention for good.

Pick: NYG 32, NYJ 30

Oakland at Kansas City, 1, CBS

Both teams need this win, in order to keep their slim AFC West hopes alive. Kansas City has less of a chance than Oakland does, as they need to win, Denver to lose at Buffalo, and San Diego needs to lose to Detroit. The latter is more possible than the former, but it's still possible. Oakland just needs Denver to lose. Oakland hasn't fared too well the past three games, losing each one, and last week's was especially painful, losing to Detroit on a last effort 98-yard drive. So, all of the wind may be gone from their sails. Kansas City meanwhile, is coming off a great win, handing Green Bay their first loss of the season.

Pick: Kansas City 17, Oakland 13

San Diego at Detroit, 4, CBS

Detroit is looking to go to the playoffs for the first time since 1999, and all they need is a win at home in order to do it. My guess is that even though they're facing a suddenly resurgent San Diego team, just coming off their win versus the AFC North leaders in Baltimore. But, as Detroit has shown resiliency throughout the season, I think they pull this off in what is essentially their home playoff game.

Pick: Detroit 37, San Diego 34

Philadelphia at Dallas, 4:15, Fox

The Eagles need to win their final two games and need New York to lose this week, and win next week for the Eagles to backdoor their way into the playoffs for the 11th time in the 13 years that Andy Reid has been there. Do I have faith that the Eagles can do it? As picked above, no. Granted, the Eagles completely shell shocked the Cowboys following their bye week a few weeks ago, but this team cannot be trusted whatsoever. Dallas meanwhile, has lost two of their past three, with the only win being at a Tampa team which has been reeling since week 7. But, as mentioned, can't trust the Eagles, and playing at Dallas, really don't trust them.

Pick: Dallas 44, Philly 21

Atlanta at New Orleans, 8:30, Monday, ESPN

New Orleans has been one of the hottest teams in the NFL this season, winning seven of the past eight games, with the only loss, an aberration to the Rams. New Orleans also has been one of the best offenses this season, not only throwing the ball, as Drew Brees is only a little over 300 yards away from breaking Dan Marino's 27 year old passing yards record, which most though would never be broken. But, also rushing, as New Orleans ranks in the top quarter of the league in rushing as well, due to the trio of Chris Ivory, Mark Ingram, and perhaps their most valuable pickup of the offseason, Darren Sproles, who has fit into the Reggie Bush role quite well.
Atlanta meanwhile has also been a very hot team, winning four of their past five, with the only loss being at Houston, which isn't a bad loss at all. Atlanta has been following the formula that won them the division last year. That formula is: rely on Michael Turner, allow Matt Ryan to manage the game well, and have a solid defense. Granted, they haven't been as good as last season, but they've still played very well throughout the season.
However, since New Orleans has a chance to clinch the division, and at home, I think they'll pull it out.

Pick: New Orleans 35, Atlanta 27

Allow us to remember the true reason for the season, Jesus, and Him humbly becoming a man and stepping down to Earth from his throne as God. May you all have a very Merry Christmas with your friends and family!

10 Best Football Games-Week 16!

Bowling starts this week, and no, I'm not in a bowling league, talking about the best 3 weeks of the year: college Bowl games, and all of the wacky names and companies associated with the 35 bowl games this year. Some of the wackier: Famous Idaho Potato Bowl, Ticketcity Bowl, Belk Bowl, Beef O' Brady's Bowl and Military Bowl-Presented by Northrop Grumman. There are other names too which are kind of out there if you will, like the AdvoCare V100 Independence Bowl, TaxSlayer.Com Gator Bowl,  and BBVA Compass Bowl. But, there are these names because of the magnitude of bowls and for the companies to get their names out there. Since there are so many bowls, and many of them I will not be able to preview, but will preview the best ones, and go until Wednesday of the following week as far as what Bowls I will preview.
This week in the NFL, it's not very exciting, with many games featuring playoff bound teams against teams which aren't very good, or two teams just preparing for next season. There are two exciting games, but that's about it. Now, on to the preview.

Bowls

Gildan New Mexico Bowl
Temple vs. Wyoming,  Saturday, 2, ESPN

This is a game between two rather surprising mid-major conference teams, who both posted 8-4 record, and are deserving of bowl bids. Temple closed out the regular season with three consecutive victories, led by elusive back Bernard Pierce, who is coming back next year to try and put up even gaudier numbers than his 1381 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns, which is more touchdowns that Heisman candidate Trent Richardson. Temple also has a good defense to go along with Pierce and the rushing game, only allowing slightly less than 14 points per game. Wyoming meanwhile, could be the front runner for next year's Mountain West conference, as Boise State could be leaving for the Big East and TCU is already jettisoning for the Big 12. Wyoming finished third in the MWC behind those two schools, and are led by freshman quarterback, and freshman of the year in the MWC Brett Smith, who finished the season with nearly 2500 yards passing and 18 touchdowns. This game should be a good one, and could be rather low scoring.
Info obtained from: http://espn.go.com/ncf/preview?gameId=313512751

Pick: Wyoming 23, Temple 14

Famous Idaho Potato Bowl at Boise, Idaho
Ohio vs. Utah State, 5:30, Saturday, ESPN

Ohio lost in the MAC championship game, to finish 9-4 on the season, now they have to travel two thirds across the country to Boise, for their bowl game. Utah State finished a pedestrian 7-5 in the WAC, but that was only one game back of conference winner Louisiana Tech, so they could be a contender next season in an even more depleted WAC, as Fresno State leaves the conference. Ohio won five consecutive games to win the East division of the MAC and advance to the championship game before losing to Northern Illinois. Ohio has a very potent offense, led by quarterback Tyler Tettleton, who passed for over 3,000 yards, and were averaging over 400 yards a game in their five consecutive victories. Utah State is very much a rushing attack, and kind of like a throwback offense, a lot of running, and not a whole lot of passing. As Utah State ranks in the bottom third for passing in division 1-A.  This should be an offensive shootout.
Info: http://espn.go.com/ncf/preview?gameId=313510328

Pick: Utah State 38, Ohio 36

R&L Carriers New Orleans Bowl
San Diego State vs. Louisiana-Lafayette, Saturday, 9, ESPN

San Diego State suffered no ill effects after their coach, Brady Hoke, who led them back to some prominence  last season left for Michigan, and are going to back to back bowl games for the first time since the '60s. The Ragin' Cajuns are making their first trip to any bowl since 1970. This game will essentially be a home game for  the Cajuns, as it's only a short drive from Lafayette. The Cajuns will have to deal with senior running back Ronnie Hillman, who, while not receiving too much attention like other running backs like Montee Ball and Trent Richardson and LaMichael James, he is a very good back, ranking third in the nation averaging 138 yards a game. The Cajuns meanwhile, rely on passing and two main receiving threats in Javone Lawson and Ladarius Green, who caught 15 of quarterback Blaine Gautier's 20 touchdown passes. This again should be rather high scoring, with Louisiana-Lafayette's poor defense down the stretch.
Info: http://espn.go.com/ncf/preview?gameId=313510309

Pick: Louisiana-Lafayette 41, SDSU 27

Beef O' Brady's Bowl St. Petersburg
Florida International vs. Marshall, Tuesday, 8, ESPN

FIU was a respectable 8-4 and finished fourth in a top heavy Sun Belt, while Marshall shouldn't be here, with a 6-6 record. FIU has been having a rise in its football program, started just a decade ago in 2002. The eight wins are a school record, and this is thanks to coach Mario Cristobal, who has turned this program around, from a 0-12 team in 2006 to the now 8-4 squad in 2011. FIU also has one of the most dynamic receivers in the nation in T.Y. Hilton, who is blazing fast and has nearly 1,000 yards on the season. Marshall meanwhile finished 2nd in the Conference USA East division, behind eventual conference champ Southern Miss. Marshall has a great defense, creating 28 turnovers on the year, and led by defensive end Vinny Curry, who has 21.5 tackles for loss, with 11 of those being sacks. This should be a decent game, but with FIU coming out on top.
Info: http://espn.go.com/ncf/preview?gameId=313540276

Pick: FIU 21, Marshall 10

San Diego Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl, San Diego
#18 TCU vs. Louisiana Tech, Wednesday, 8, ESPN

TCU had an excellent closing to their season, winning seven straight, and their two losses were by a combined  nine points. Plus, the one was to Heisman winner Robert Griffin III. TCU is moving on from their mid-major status next season and moving into a power conference in the Big 12 next season, where they could be a conference title contender. TCU has a focused running game, mainly because of losing star quarterack Andy Dalton to the NFL. Now, they're averaging over 200 yards a game on the ground. Louisiana Tech won the WAC and are headed to their first bowl since the 2008 Independence Bowl. But, since TCU is coming from a tougher conference and since they beat a top 10 team in Boise State, go with the Horned Frogs.
Info: http://espn.go.com/ncf/preview?gameId=313552348

Pick: TCU 45, La. Tech 20

NFL

Detroit at Oakland, 4, Fox

Oakland is trying to break back into the race for the AFC West, with them still only one game behind the Broncos, who are playing the Patriots this week. Oakland has not been very good the past few weeks, losing big to Miami and Green Bay, but have three very winnable games left, beginning with this one. Oakland needs to get back to playing stout defense and they need Carson Palmer not to be imploding, as he has done the past two weeks. Then, Detroit needs to just play their game and not make stupid penalties and mistakes, then they'll win, as that has been their achillies heel this season. Detroit also has Ndamukong Suh coming back for this game, so they should be motivated to get this win and continue on their quest for the playoffs.

Pick: Detroit 28, Oakland 22

New England at Denver, 4:15, CBS

This is the first really big test for the Broncos and Tim Tebow as a team, as last week, Tebow faced the best defense he had faced, now the Broncos defense faces a huge test in Tom Brady and the Patriots offense. Everyone has been crowing about Tebow, but really, the key to this whole turn around by the Broncos has been the defense, led by linebackers Elvis Dumervil and Von Miller, only giving up more than 15 points in three of the eight games. Tebow and the Broncos will be relying on the running game and the option game, as the Patriots strength is in their secondary. But, I think New England is too much and has too many weapons for the Broncos to cover.

Pick: New England 37, Denver 23

New York Jets at Philadelphia, 4:15, CBS

Yes, Amazingly enough, the Eagles still have a shot at the division title, as if the Cowboys, Giants and Eagles all finish 8-8, the Eagles win the division. But, kiss those dreams goodbye Eagles fans, as the Jets are too good on defense and can wreak havoc on Mike Vick and LeSean McCoy. The Jets have also been climbing back into the AFC playoff picture, thanks to Cincy's collapse and the Jets just playing better on offense, thanks mainly to Shonn Greene, who has been a key piece of the running game the past few weeks.

Pick:  New York Jets 24, Philly 10

Baltimore at San Diego, 8:30, NBC

Baltimore has been very much in charge of the AFC North the entire season, only slipping a few times, losing three games, they probably shouldn't have. San Diego meanwhile, may have found their step again, after losing six consecutive games, after starting the season 4-1. San Diego has won their past two, thanks to Philip Rivers finding his passing game again. Baltimore, though, has been doing very well, thanks to star running back Ray Rice, who has been tearing up the league. Baltimore has also been putting up stellar numbers on defense as usual.

Pick: Baltimore 24, San Diego 13

Pittsburgh at San Francisco, Monday, 8:30, ESPN

This is a great interconference game, matching up two 10-3 teams, and both having Super Bowl aspirations. Pittsburgh, probably has a much better shot at the Super Bowl than San Francisco, based simply because they've been there, and they've been able to score touchdowns in the red zone, while San Francisco has been awful in the red zone, more often than not, getting field goals rather than touchdowns. That has proven to be their downfall in their losses, with a perfect example being last week's loss against Arizona, getting four field goals, rather than touchdowns. San Francisco has a very stout defense, but they probably can't stop the Steelers offense.

Pick: Pittsburgh 34, San Francisco 26

10 Best Football Games-Week 15!

Wow, another mess the national championship game is, the SEC is guaranteed a sixth consecutive BCS national title, and the rematch is on. Plus, the BCS picked an inexplicable match up in the Sugar Bowl, with Michigan versus Virginia Tech. The match up is horrible, considering Virginia Tech just got completely blown out by Clemson who came into the ACC title game losing three of its past four, and Michigan not even making it to its own conference title game. But, alas, this is what the BCS has become of late. Then, there are some of the other 35 bowl games out there, like the TicketCity Bowl, featuring a high octane offense in Houston matched up against a stealth defense in Penn State, so that should be a fun game to watch. Plus, there is Temple, which is going to yet another bowl game, this time the Gildan New Mexico Bowl, where they face a Wyoming team which can hang in there against a few opponents. Don't forget, there is the College Bowl Mania pick 'em league with friends of PJ's blog. Here is the link: http://games.espn.go.com/college-bowl-mania/en/group?groupID=4618&selGrp=4618&entryID=78550. The game is confidence mode, so this is how it goes, if you have the utmost confidence in a certain game, you will put 35 next to that game, and if you don't have much confidence in a certain game, you put a 1 next to that game. Please join me in playing!
Now, since there is only one division 1-A college game this week, Army vs. Navy, that is the only college game I'm picking, as well as nine pro games. There actually are a lot of games with playoff potential as well.

College

Army vs. Navy, in Washington, D.C., 2:30, CBS

This annual game has been completely dominated by Navy over the past decade, with Navy winning every game since 2002, and with the Black Knights continuing to falter, I don't see how they can pull out a victory in this game. Navy still has the potent triple option game led by Alexander Teich, who has been vital in the triple option game that both service academies deploy. Navy has also won two of their past three games.
However, the game doesn't really matter as much as remembering what these young men will be doing after the football field, and that is protecting our country, and that is to be commended, plus the excellent discipline each person has both on the field and in the classroom, with most achieving GPA's of 3.5 or higher.

Pick: Navy 24, Army 21

NFL

Houston at Cincinnati, 1, CBS

Houston played very well last week against a good Atlanta team, and came out with a victory, and that's even without having star receiver Andre Johnson for half the game. Houston will be without the services of Johnson once again in this game, as last week he injured his other hamstring while running a post pattern in the third quarter. Cincy played horribly last week at division rival Pittsburgh, and it has caused them to now be hanging on to the final wild card spot in the AFC by a thread. Cincy can ill afford to lose games in the home stretch, as they are tied for the wild card lead with a few other teams and own the tiebreaker, so that will be the key down the stretch for them. Currently, Houston should win this game based on their running game and defense, which has been stellar.

Pick: Houston 20, Cincy 10

Minnesota at Detroit, 1, Fox

Detroit is needing this victory to get back into the playoff picture in the NFC, as they are currently on the outside looking in. There are a few things which help Detroit in this game. Those being that Christian Ponder, who has been decent, Adrian Peterson could just be returning from his leg injury, and the Lions are at home, where they've been good. So, with those things combined, put Detroit in for the victory.

Pick: Detroit 23, Minnesota 13

New Orleans at Tennessee, 1, Fox

New Orleans needs this win to continue to try and win the NFC South, and they need a victory and an Atlanta loss to seal the deal. Tennessee also is tied with Cincy for the last wild card spot, and could use this victory as well to try and propel themselves into the playoffs. Chris Johnson has gotten back on track the past two weeks, averaging over 170 yards in those games, and he should continue to do well this week, but not all that well, as New Orleans is averaging only 114 yards per game given up per game thus far. New Orleans also wants to prove to the naysayers that they can win on the road, and outdoors in December and January, and this will be a perfect time to do that.

Pick: New Orleans 31, Tennessee 17

Kansas City at New York Jets, 1, CBS

New York is yet another team tied with Cincy for the final Wild Card spot in the AFC, and they have a relatively easy game this week, unlike the others, which should help prop them into the sixth seed, which is right where they'd like to be. New York has gone to the AFC title game the past two seasons coming from the sixth seed. New York has been coming around as of late, and that should make them a contender.

Pick: New York 24, Kansas City 10

New England at Washington, 1, CBS

New England will torch the Washington secondary, just like they did with most other teams this year.

Pick: New England 38, Washington 14

Chicago at Denver, 4, Fox

This is a very interesting game, as this will be Tebow's first game against a great defense. But, then again, Denver has been playing some pretty good defense of its own this season, and that should help them against a weakened Chicago team which doesn't have Jay Cutler or Matt Forte in the backfield. I'm expecting this game to be rather low scoring, as both teams do feature pretty good defenses, and Tebow isn't all that good passing yet. But, since Denver is at home, and competing for the AFC West division title, go with the Broncos.

Pick: Denver 13, Chicago 10

San Francisco at Arizona, 4, Fox

San Francisco may have just clinched the NFC West, but they want a first round bye as well, and going against a up and down Arizona team which they killed earlier in the season, it's no match.

Pick: San Francisco 41, Arizona 21

Oakland at Green Bay, 4:15, CBS

Oakland just got destroyed by the Dolphins last week in Miami, and now they're going to face the best team in the NFL, who still haven't put together a complete 60 minute game, which is scary. Go with Green Bay to continue in their quest for an undefeated season.

Pick: Green Bay 45, Oakland 24

New York Giants at Dallas, 8:30, NBC

This game is the first of two in the final four weeks of the regular season between these two clubs, and this could help decide the NFC East, as Dallas is sitting one game ahead of the Giants with four games remaining. New York needs this game to help themselves from being two down with three to go. Plus, with the way New York played last week, inspired, they should go down and beat Dallas.

Pick: New York 27, Dallas 23

Bowl Mania!

ESPN has a game where you can pick the winners of each and every one of the 35 bowl games, and I'm inviting you, the readers of my blog to join me in picking the winners. The game can either be played with "confidence" picks or just straight up and picking the winners. I chose confidence, where you pick the winner, and choose how confident you are in that pick. So, please join me in this game! The link is below, and it's public, so anyone can join.
http://games.espn.go.com/college-bowl-mania/en/group?groupID=4618&selGrp=4618&entryID=78550

10 Best Football Games-NCAA Championship Week!

The college football season has flown by seemingly and it is now time for the conference championships to be decided. There are seven conference championship games, however, I will only be previewing four, as the MAC and PAC-12 title games are being played as I'm typing. The four I'm previewing are: C-USA, ACC, Big Ten, and SEC title games. I will also preview what is known as "Bedlam" in Oklahoma between Oklahoma ans Oklahoma State.
But, allow me not to forget about the NFL, as there are some very intriguing games with some playoff bound teams and could affect seeding in the playoffs. Allow me to get to the games.

College

C-USA Championship
#24 Southern Miss at #6 Houston, noon, ABC

Conference USA is one of the two conferences which allows the team with the better record to host the conference championship game, the other is the PAC-12. Houston should have a nice advantage due to being at home, and because they are playing for a chance to go to a BCS game. Not the National Championship game, but I digress and ranted on that a few weeks ago. But, Houston has proven to the nation that nobody on their schedule can stop them, as they have scored at least 35 points in each of their 12 games thus far. So, this team can easily get into a shootout, and they've been able to hold some teams in check as well, such as a prolific SMU team to just 7, and a decent Tulsa team to just 16.
Southern Miss meanwhile has had one great season as well, only losing two games, with those two games being very puzzling losses, one to a 6-6 Marshall team and the other to just a downright awful UAB squad. But, they are going to have to pick off Case Keenum and try and create turnovers to have a chance in this game. However, tomorrow just isn't their game.

Pick: Houston 47, Southern Miss 23

SEC Championship, Atlanta

#1 LSU vs. #14 Georgia, 4, CBS

Georgia has done very well since their opening two losses, at home to a very good Boise State squad, and at home to what was at least at one time, a pretty potent South Carolina team. Georgia has since turned it around and won ten consecutive games, granted, it has been against lesser competition, but still, it has done very well. Georgia has also a good run defense, and that could help them out versus a run oriented LSU squad. The Bulldogs also have a vetern quarterback in Aaron Murray which can help.
This may as well be an away game for LSU though, as the Georgia Dome is merely 90 minutes away from Sanford Stadium in Athens where Georgia plays. But, it won't matter, as LSU has beaten every single opponent on their schedule, and most quite handily. LSU has beaten every team whether at home, away, or at a neutral site. LSU has beaten the probable champions of two BCS conferences as well, in Oregon and West Virginia. So, I have zero doubts that this team will roll into Atlanta and roll out with the conference championship.

Pick: LSU 51, Georgia 31

ACC Championship, Charlotte

#5 Virginia Tech vs. #20 Clemson, 8, ESPN

These two teams met before, in Blacksburg, but, it was when Clemson still cared and was playing their best football in early October. Since then, Tech has gone undefeated, and Clemson has lost 3 of their past 4 games. Clemson has just dropped like a rock, and just not shown up to play these past few weeks, losing to an average Georgia Tech team, a bad NC State team and a rival. Plus, it is hard to beat a team twice in the same season, especially in Championship games.
Virginia Tech has won using their dynamic quarterback Logan Thomas, who is much like Cam Newton, a big man who can dish out the punishment both rushing and passing. Tech also has a good running back in David Wilson, who has run for nearly 1600 yards so far on the season. Plus, with "Beamerball" making some key plays on special teams and defense.

Pick: Virginia Tech 30, Clemson 17

Big Ten Championship, Indianapolis

#15 Wisconsin vs. #13 Michigan State, 8, Fox

This game is another rematch, and a classic rematch as well, this game in the latter half of October ended on a Hail Mary and one tough catch and push by Keith Nichol. Both teams since then have gone 4-1, with Michigan State's only loss coming at Nebraska the following week, and Wisconsin continuing their hangover by losing at Ohio State the following week. Both teams have fantastic running games, with Michigan State having a platoon with Edwin Baker and Le'Veon Bell, who have combined for over 1400 yards. Then, they've got a good quarterback in Kirk Cousins and a solid defense, which has only given up a little over 15 yards per game.
Wisconsin meanwhile has had a Heisman candidate in transfer Russell Wilson, and a new one emerge in running back Montee Ball, who will look to break Barry Sanders record of 39 in the next two games. Ball currently has 34, and can easily do it behind Wisconsin's massive offensive line, which averages over 6'4" and 300 pounds, so in reality, this is an NFL offensive line. Then, with Russell Wilson, he is a tranfer graduate student, who has done exceptionally well in his only season in Madison, having a greater than 7-1 touchdown to interception ratio.
So, this game is a battle between two really closely matched teams, and essentially is a coin flip, but go with Wisconsin to make it back-to-back trips to the Rose Bowl due to the first game being in East Lansing, and the revenge factor.

Pick: Wisconsin 37, Michigan State 35

#10 Oklahoma at #3 Oklahoma State, 8, ABC

This is the de facto Big 12 championship game, as this will decide which of these two teams gets the automatic bid to the BCS. This game could also help decide if Oklahoma State even has a sliver of hope of getting into the National Championship game with winning this game, and winning it big. Oklahoma lost its best wide receiver a few weeks ago, and that probably cost them against Baylor, losing at Baylor.
Oklahoma State really hasn't had any injuries, and their only loss came at Iowa State two weeks ago, after their women's basketball coach died in a plane crash after doing some recruiting. Plus, Iowa State actually, isn't all that bad. Oklahoma State will want to rebound after that tough loss in double overtime and try and blowout Oklahoma to reach the title game.

Pick: Oklahoma State 54, Oklahoma 34

NFL

Cincinnati at Pittsburgh, 1, CBS

Pittsburgh is continuing to try and fight for the AFC North title while hoping that Baltimore loses at some point. Cincinnati meanwhile has lost hope on the division title, but are very capable of taking one of the two wild card spots in the AFC, and are in position to do that currently, being a game ahead of Denver at the moment. But, while Cincy has been good, they haven't been all that good, and may even be overtaken by Denver after this weekend. As Cincy lost the first meeting between these two clubs and it was at Cincy just four weeks ago.

Pick: Pittsburgh 24, Cincy 14

Atlanta at Houston, 1, Fox

This game looked very attractive just four weeks ago, now, it is still attractive, just much less because Houston is now down to their third string quarterback and sign cast offs like Kellen Clemens and Jake Delhomme to fill out their roster due to the season ending injuries to Matt Schaub and Matt Leinart. Now, the Texans have to resort to the first ever starting quarterback from the football factory which is North Carolina in T.J. Yates. Yates filled in admirably for Leinart after he got hurt, going 8/15 for 70 yards. The good news for Yates is that he has a Pro Bowl running back in Arian Foster behind him as well as a very good team defense to help him out. Yates also has a Pro Bowl wide receiver in Andre Johnson to help him in his maturation.
However, Atlanta has the exact same thing, but a much better and veteran quarterback in Matt Ryan, and as most know in the NFL, quarterbacks are the key to winning games.

Pick: Atlanta 27, Houston 20

Tennessee at Buffalo, 1, CBS

Tennessee now has a chance to catch Houston, now that they are down to their third string quarterback. Tennessee also has the fortune of facing a team in free fall like the Bills, who, after their 5-2 start, have lost fur straight, with only one of them even being close in last week's thriller versus the Jets. Buffalo just hasn't been good the past few games, while Tennessee has been average, and that is good enough to beat this hapless Bills team.

Pick: Tennessee 21, Buffalo 10

Green Bay at New York Giants, 4:15, Fox

New York, like Buffalo has been in somewhat of a free fall, losing their past three, including last Monday's debacle against the Saints. New York has some good news and some bad news this week, the good news is that they now have their tandem of Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs back, as Bradshaw has been out the past few weeks. The bad news is that they still don't have Osi Umenyiora, which would help a lot against Aaron Rodgers, who has been on fire this season, putting together a runaway MVP type season. And, with the way the Packers played last Thursday, they can't be stopped.

Pick: Green Bay 38, New York 24

Detroit at New Orleans, 8:30, NBC

Detroit is without a big weapon in defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh, who inexplicably stomped on a players arm in the Lions loss last week, and has subsequently been suspended for this game and the following week. Detroit is also playing at New Orleans, which is one tough place to play, just ask New York last week. New Orleans continues to play phenomenal football, and should continue to pass the football with ease against a fairly weak Detroit secondary.

Pick: New Orleans 45, Detroit 27

10 Best Football Games-Thanksgiving weekend!

Thanksgiving weekend, and what a feast of football to dine on while dining on all of the delicious food. The NFL has six games which I could choose from which are good games, while college features a plethora of rivalry games. Some of which mean something as far as conference or division, the others just for pride. This weekend is all about the three f's: food, family, and football. Granted, you could put in shopping as another one, with black Friday, however, that's for some, but not for most. Anyway, here are 10 of the best football games this weekend, with two NFL games featured tomorrow.

NFL

Green Bay at Detroit, 12:30, Fox

Many people have been criticizing the NFL the past few seasons for giving the Lions a showcase game on Thanksgiving day despite the Lions being one of the worst teams in the league. But, the league kept on giving it to them, just like they have every year since 1936. Now, this game could be considered the best of the three on Thanksgiving day, with division rivals competing, and one having an undefeated record.
This game also is probably the best "measuring stick" for the Lions so far this season, as it will pit them against the best football team in the league thus far this season. Can the Lions actually pull off the upset? Maybe. It depends, this game may turn into a shootout, as last week did with the Lions, 49-35. The Lions will need their defensive line to bring pressure to Aaron Rodgers, they'll need to control the wide array of Packers receivers, and finally control the clock. Detroit has the ability to do it, but I don't think that Kevin Smith can come back and have the week like he did last week (more than 200 yards from scrimmage).

Pick: Green Bay 42, Detroit 31

San Francisco at Baltimore, 8:30, NFL Network

This is the battle of the Harbaugh brothers, and has been anticipated since the beginning of the season, whether or not the 49ers were any good or not. But, turns out this is an attractive game because both teams are very good. San Francisco is the number two seed in the NFC currently, while the Ravens would be the number two in the AFC. Baltimore seems to play to the level of their opponents, as evidenced by their losses to Jacksonville and Seattle. San Francisco just plays well as a team, and has won in the eastern time zone despite their five trips out east. Now, the fact that they've been able to win all five of those games is a testament to how well they've been prepared. But, since the 49ers are playing on a short week and having to travel, I'll give the edge to Baltimore, solely because they're at home. Otherwise, both teams are very evenly matched.

Pick: Baltimore 24, San Francisco 14

Chicago at Oakland, 4, Fox

If this game was played a week ago, it'd be a doozy of a game probably. However, becaue Chicago quarterback Jay Cutler is now out at least for the rest of the regular season due to a broken thumb, this game suddenly became a lot less interesting. But, Chicago also has what many consider to be the MVP of the NFL in Matt Forte, and the best returner of all time in Devin Hester, plus Chicago has been playing some lights out defense. Oakland is seeming to come together as a team and control their own destiny in the lousy AFC West. But, they're slowly getting the old Carson Palmer back and having a defense which is stepping up to the plate. This will be a good game, and giving the edge to Oakland because they're at home and they can have a chance to unload on new quarterback Caleb Hanie, which nobody ever heard of before last year's NFC championship game.

Pick: Oakland 23, Chicago 10

New England at Philadelphia, 4:15, CBS

Philadelphia gave fans a glimmer of hope in reviving their season last week in their big win over the Giants in New Jersey. Now, this week, the Eagles season will definitely be dead. Philadelphia is facing the best team they have faced the entire season in the Patriots. Granted, the Patriots defense isn't all that good, but their offense with Tom Brady and his talented tight ends more than make up for it. Rob Gronkowski and aaron Hernandez will have a field day against the weak Eagles linebackers and the Patriots will roll.

Pick: New England 45, Philadelphia 13

New York Giants at New Orleans, 8:30, Monday, ESPN

New York is coming off a bad loss at home to rival Philadelphia, while New Orleans finally had a week off in week 11 and now will have a crowd behind them. New Orleans controls their destiny in the NFC South, while New York will need help in the NFC to even make the playoffs, but they're still a very good team. I think that the Saints will roll here though because they are playing at home, and they're really good at home, then they are coming off a bye week.

Pick: New Orleans 38, New York 21

College

#3 Arkansas at #1 LSU, 2:30 Friday, CBS

CBS is thrilled to have the SEC especially this year, as they've already had a 1 vs. 2 game in LSU/Alabama and now they've got a 1 vs. 3 game. This game should be a lot different than the LSU/'Bama game as Arkansas doesn't have nearly the defense that Alabama did. Plus, Arkansas already lost big to Alabama at Alabama. If Arkansas has any shot at beating LSU, they'll need to figure out a way to solve LSU's defense, which has been stellar all season. But, I just don't think they have enough.

Pick: LSU 43, Arkansas 24

#2 Alabama at #24 Auburn, 3:30, CBS

Auburn won last year's game after being down 24-0 at one point, then came roaring back to win 28-27 in Alabama. Now, there are many folks on Alabama's team which was there last season, and they didn't forget. So, they will be out to grab the victory and do it big time against a young Auburn team.

Pick: Alabma 51, Auburn 21

#5 Virginia Tech at Virginia, 3:30, ABC or ESPN2

This game will determine who will face Clemson in the ACC title game next week. Virginia Tech seems to be ranked fifth solely based on their reputation, not based on the quality of their opponents or how they've beaten them. Granted, their only loss came against Atlantic division winner Clemson, but they don't really have  any other signature victories. Mike London has done amazing things at Virginia, which really isn't the best place to succeed in football. But, they've been in anonymity this season in the ACC.

Pick: Virginia 24, Virginia Tech 21

#19 Penn State at #16 Wisconsin, 3:30, ESPN

Penn State is shockingly still in the hunt for the Leaders division title, and the winner of this game will win the Leaders division and play in the inaugural Big Ten title game in Indianapolis. Penn State will need to stop Wisconsin running back Montee Ball and be able to score more than 20 to win this game. Ball has accounted for 30 touchdowns this season, which to give you an idea is more than the University of Kentucky has scored this football season. That is how important it is to stop Ball in this game. Plus, Penn State will need to try and score some points again, which has been very hard for them to do.

Pick: Wisconsin 31, Penn State 16

#22 Notre Dame at #6 Stanford, 8, ABC

Stanford looked sluggish in their win last week over Cal, but eventually pulled away in the second half. Stanford still has Andrew Luck and a good defense to win, with their only loss coming at home against a very fast and athletic Oregon team. But, they are now facing a depleted Notre Dame team, which is coming into this game without their leading rusher Jonas Gray, who now has a torn ACL. Granted, Notre Dame still has a talented group of receivers, but Gray was an integral part of their offense. Then they need to also rely on their defense to contain Luck and Stanford's tight ends. But, I don't think they can.

Pick: Stanford 34, Notre Dame 28

Finally, enjoy the weekend, enjoy tomorrow, and take time to really step back and think what you're thankful for. Personally, it's Jesus, who decided to save me, and die for me.

10 Best Football Games-Week 12!

This week's slate in both college and the NFL is pretty bad to be quite honest, as there are a lot of mismatches. You've got teams playing well against teams which have been faltering lately in the NFL, i.e. Chargers at Bears. Then, in college, you've only got two games between ranked teams, and those don't even impact conference or national championship races. So, therefore, this is going to be a fairly short post, just because of how little there is to dissect.

College

USC at #4 Oregon, 8, ESPN3.com or ABC, check local listings.

USC isn't ranked despite being 8-2 because they are on NCAA probation, and can't win the abysmal PAC-12 south for the exact same reason. But, they are a really good team. They've got the speed and athleticism to compete with Oregon and derail Oregon's chances of a national title for good. But, they don't have the depth to be able to rotate players in and out to compete with Oregon's speed and SC will wear down over the course of the game. So, in the fourth quarter, expect Oregon to pull away with this one.

Pick: Oregon 48, USC 31

#21 Penn State at Ohio State, 3:30, ABC

Ohio State has one of their best receivers from last season, DeVier Posey coming back from a 10 games suspension for this game. So, that will help Braxton Miller in the passing game. Penn State played a truly inspired game last weekend on senior day and for Joe Paterno. Plus, that was a better team they played and lost to in Nebraska. This week, the Nittany Lions head into the "shoe", where they've historically had a bad performance. But, I think that Penn State will pull it out and head into their game next week against Wisconsin with everything on the line.

Pick: Penn State 14, Ohio State 12

#5 Oklahoma at #22 Baylor, 8, ESPN3.com or ABC

Oklahoma has rebounded thoroughly from their embarrassing loss at home against Texas Tech a few weeks ago. Since that loss, they've outscored their next two opponents 99-42, and one of those was a top ten team at the time in Kansas State. So, can't say blame it on the competition, because the competition was good. Oklahoma also had a bye week last week to prepare for Robert Griffin III and Baylor. Baylor has had a penchant for turnovers, and Oklahoma should be capitalizing on it.

Pick: Oklahoma 51, Baylor 27

#2 Oklahoma State at Iowa State, Friday, 8, ESPN

Iowa State has had a few surprising performances this season, beating in-state rival Iowa in overtime as well as beating Texas Tech the week after their victory against Oklahoma. Iowa State will also try to become bowl eligible for the first time since 2009 with a win this week. But, it's not going to happen. Oklahoma State has just been too good, they've got two weeks then to prepare for "Bedlam" with Oklahoma, so they can't look past Iowa State. Oklahoma State just seems like it's on a mission and will continue with it until the national title game.

Pick: Oklahoma State 59, Iowa State 27

Southern Methodist at #11 Houston, 3:30

Allow me to rant on Houston in this game. Houston is undefeated, and yet still ranked outside the top 10. They are not being discussed for the national title game at all. But, if they go and beat down SMU, Tulsa, and then a previously ranked Southern Miss team in the Conference USA title game, they would still be undefeated and probably not gain an ounce of traction in the national title game. But, last I checked, zero losses are less than one loss. So, Houston should play in the national title game then if either Oklahoma State or LSU loses in any of their next few games. Granted, Houston does play in a bad conference, which I understand, BUT, if Houston does go undefeated and does not get a chance at the national title game, then this whole "every game counts" slogan the BCS uses should be thrown out the window, as clearly, every game did not count with Houston. Houston has a Heisman candidate in Case Keenum, who has broken every single passing record there is to break in NCAA history, but won't be considered because he comes from a weak conference. But, he's still good and has allowed Houston to succeed.
Now, on to the game itself. ESPN's college gameday will be in Houston, so that alone should be enough to help propel Houston past SMU.

Pick: Houston 70, SMU 52

NFL

Cincinnati at Baltimore, 1, CBS

This game is the best game on the schedule believe it or not. Both teams are 6-3, both coming off losses. Baltimore to Seattle, in Seattle, which makes it a little bit more acceptable. However, Cincinnati held in there against Pittsburgh last week at home. Cincy isn't the best team, but hangs in there in games. Baltimore is coming back home and will want to establish themselves as contenders again after their horrific loss to Seattle.

Pick: Baltimore 27, Cincy 21

Tennessee at Atlanta, 4:15, CBS

Atlanta lost last week at home against New Orleans, when they made a stupid decision to go for the first down at their own 29 in overtime against New Orleans. So, they'll be looking to rebound against a fairly weak Tennessee team. Granted, Tennessee just whooped Carolina, but then again, Carolina is no good outside of Cam Newton. Tennessee is good, and wanting to improve their record and try to get back into the AFC South race, but it's just not going to happen.

Pick: Atlanta 31, Tennessee 20

San Diego at Chicago, 4:15, CBS

San Diego has lost four consecutive games since their uncharacteristc hot start. Luckily for them, they play in a pretty weak division. But, they're 1-3 on the road, and playing a fairly good Bears team. Chicago is playing great defense and also using Matt Forte to the best of their ability and he's been racking up the yards from scrimmage the entire year. I don't expect that to stop in this game.

Pick: Chicago 27, San Diego 21

Philadelphia at New York Giants, 8:30, NBC

Now, can the Eagles win seven straight after the way they've played in their first seven games? I don't think so. Some of their players have been playing up to their potential, like Jason Babin and LeSean McCoy, but the rest of the team hasn't been gelling together as a team. New York on the other hand just lost a close game to a great San Francisco team in San Fran. New York will just pound the ball with Ahmad Bradshaw because the Eagles run defense is just that bad.

Pick: New York 41, Philadelphia 17

Kansas City at New England, 8:30, ESPN

New England woke up last week and handily beat the Jets in New York. Kansas City has fallen back to earth after winning four straight games. Kansas City isn't good without Jamaal Charles and Eric Berry. New England will exploit that with their amazing tight ends in Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski along with their small receivers. Tom Brady will just carve up the Kansas City defense like a great turkey.

Pick: New England 38, Kansas City 24

Boxing

Yes, you read that right, I'm blogging about a sport I know nearly next to nothing about and a sport which I've never blogged about before. So, please bear with me while I write this.

The folks in and around the Berks County area late June were deeply saddened, by in large, as a whole when they learned of Deputy Sheriff Kyle Pagerly's death by a single gunshot wound to the head. Pagerly was just doing his job as a policeman when regarding the call of going after a suspect wanted on burglary and weapons charges that fateful night along with his K-9 partner Jynx. Since then, Pagerly and his partner Jynx have been honored in countless ways. There have been runs, games dedicated to him, a bike ride, a 5k, and now there will be a boxing promotion to help Pagerly's wife Alecia and their unborn child on Friday night at the Crowne Plaza in Wyomissing. The funds raised will go towards the Kyle Pagerly memorial find.
The tickets for the fight are $35, with ringside being at $50, and a V.I.P. with meet and greets with the boxers is $65, along with ringside tickets. The fight is being promoted by King's Promotions, with the fighters mainly coming from the gym. There will be in total 12 bouts, with 2 being exhibitions. The other ten promotions will be split evenly, five of them being professional matches and the other five being amateur bouts. All of these fights will feature fighters from King's Boxing. Go to kingsboxing.com for more info on them.
One of the exhibitions will be fought by one of Pagerly's former partners, Mike Jackson. Jackson heard about the fight through one of his co-workers, about a month and a half ago. So, Jackson decided to go for it, as he had "never before" gone into the ring. Jackson learned a lot while in the ring, and he thought it was cool to train. Jackson also said while he thought it was cool to do, it's something he will "probably never do again, with 1 child and another on the way." Jackson will be fighting a member of Reading's finest, John Gooch in a three round exhibition fight.
One of the other fights will feature the owner of Dino's Wings and Things, 5306 Allentown Pike, Temple. Dino Iaccarino. So, it made sense that one of the promotions to help this fight was held last night at Dino's where patrons were treated to a buffet which featured four different types of wings, cheese fries, mozzarella sticks and a fried vegetable along with soda and celery. Although there were only four types of wings offered in the buffet, the restaurant offers more than 25 varieties of wings.
Iaccarino will be fighting his last match as a professional, as he'd like to work on developing more wing flavors and his restaurant, which he has owned and operated for the past seven years. Iaccarino is 4-2 in his professional career, none of them being knockouts. He is doing this "just for fun", and since he is one of the sponsors, he has developed one of the videos and will have his business all over his robe and trunks. Iaccarino jokingly said "even if I lose, I may as well be a walking billboard." Which, could be true.
Some of the other fighters featured are just starting out in their careers. Those other fighters include Frank DeAlba and Cesar Gonzalez. DeAlba is a lightweight, and 2-1 in his professional career, neither of his wins coming by knockout. Both DeAlba and his trainer, Marshall Kauffman have a lot of faith that his career will go far. Both think that DeAlba can become a champion, Kauffman said that DeAlba can become a champion in "at most, five years." DeAlba said he is doing this fight "for the love of the sport," and he wants "people to come and show love for the family."
Gonzalez, on the other hand, while he may be on the older end of the spectrum, at 35, still has aspirations to become champion in the featherweight division. He hopes to overcome his age and former criminal background to gain traction. He has confidence in himself, hoping to become champion in "max three years." Gonzalez feels he can get to the top of the mountain by beating up on younger opponents, as they, in his words, "feel entitled, they don't get into the gym and work hard." He goes on to say that "I still wouldn't be boxing if that (championship) wasn't the goal." Gonzalez works a lot at the gym, and is trying to become a better boxer and get away from his past, which include convictions for armed robbery and he has an open case of intent to deliver drugs. But, he does want to do the fight not only because he "loved boxing, but when he heard it was to support Kyle Pagerly, I wanted to support 100%."
Finally, the fights are just to build up these fighters careers and to help the Kyle Pagerly Memorial Fund. Again, here is all of the information:
When: Friday, November 18, 6 p.m.
Where: Crowne Plaza Hotel, 1741 Papermill Road, Wyomissing, PA.
How much: Tickets range from $35 to $65, depending on general admission or ringside, or V.I.P. treatment.
How many fights: 12, five professional, five amateur, two exhibitions.
Who: Boxers from King's promotions

Be sure to come out and support the fallen officer and his family!

10 Best Football Games-Week 11!

The Penn State sec scandal has rocked the entire college sports world, enveloping the national and local media with all of the allegations, and it is going to be hard to focus on the field instead of the off field issues. Also, allow us to say a prayer for the victims and their families. But, the week is still going to happen. The blog is coming out a day early due to not one, but two games happening tomorrow night. One pro, one college, should be fun.

College

#7 Oregon at #4 Stanford, 8, ABC

This is a big Pac-12 North division showdown to decide which of these two teams will most likely determine who faces off in the inaugural Pac-12 championship game. This game is probably the most important in Andrew Luck's distinguished Stanford career. Luck and Stanford suffered their only loss last year to Oregon at Oregon, and that was by three touchdowns. Oregon has LaMichael James back, and they've got a very potent offense themselves.
There are two very different philosophies in this game as well, with Stanford running a very much pro style offense, running the ball and having a lot of size and liking to push folks around. Oregon meanwhile has very much a speed attack, where they like to spread you out and wear you down over time with this speed attack.
Both teams have played relatively cupcake schedules, with Stanford's only real good win came at USC a few weeks ago. But, Oregon has played LSU and Arizona State, who was ranked at the time. This game should be a shootout, as both teams have incredibly potent offenses and not that good of a defense. Call it a toss up.

Pick: Stanford 50, Oregon 48

#10 Virginia Tech at #21 Georgia Tech, 8, ESPN Thursday

Georgia Tech has had kind of a roller coaster season, as they started off on a big winning streak, winning their first seven games, with their biggest victory coming over North Carolina. Then, they lost their next two to Virginia and Miami. Then, back on October 29, they beat an unbeaten in fifth ranked Clemson quite handily, 31-17. Now, they've had ten days to really perfect this triple option which drives defensive coordinators nuts, as they never know who is going to run the ball.
Virginia Tech meanwhile, is again quietly having a very nice season, with their only loss coming to aforementioned Clemson. Tech is only a half game ahead of Georgia Tech currently in the ACC Coastal, so this is a very big game to see which team may be represented in the ACC Championship game. Tech is doing their usual thing of playing stout defense and excellent special teams while having a great running game.
This game is close again, but I think Georgia Tech will come out on top, due to this game coming after a bye and them playing at home on a Thursday.

Pick: Georgia Tech 35, Virginia Tech 24

#19 Nebraska at #12 Penn State, noon, ESPN

As much as I hate to do this game due to the allegations and all of the hoopla surrounding the campus, it is a big game within the Big Ten. Nebraska is coming off their first loss at home to a current Big Ten member in 30 years. So, they will be fired up to come and try and improve their standing within the Legends division. They've got a pretty good defense when they show up. But, they've allowed some big points to other teams which is concerning. But, they've got a really good running quarterback in Taylor Martinez and a good running back in Rex Burkhead as well. Both Martinez and Burkhead combine for over 1600 yards in on the ground. Meanwhile, Martinez has over 1500 yards passing as well.
Now, with Penn State. Penn State will be one very emotional place come Saturday at noon. There will be a blue out to help with the fight against child abuse. This will be the first time since Lyndon Johnson was in the White House that Joe Paterno will not be the head coach of the football team. The players will need to find something to play for and to maintain their two game lead in the Leaders division. I don't know how the team will perform, but I expect one heluva effort at least on senior day.

Pick: Penn State 24, Nebraska 23

TCU at #5 Boise State, 3:30, Versus

This game was supposed to be huge at the beginning of the year, not only for the conference, but possibly national championship implications. It was supposed to be the beginning of a rivalry in the Mountain West conference. However, it's looking more and more likely that both of these teams will no longer be a part of this conference. TCU first was going to leave for the Big East, now they're going to the Big 12. Now, Boise may move to the Big East, which doesn't make any sense whatsoever. This was originally scheduled to be in Fort Worth, but since TCU was switching conferences, the game has now been moved to Boise.
TCU has not been the same offensive or defensive juggernaut it was when Andy Dalton was there. In the first game of the season, they narrowly lost to a good Baylor team in Waco, and then their only other loss came at home to SMU in overtime. But, they've put together a nice season thus far to go 7-2. But, I don't think they have the experience to go up against Heisman contender Kellen Moore and Boise. Continue to hop onto the Boise bus as Pat Forde would say.

Pick: Boise 41, TCU 32

#20 Auburn at #15 Georgia, 3:30, CBS

Georgia needs this game to keep a leg up on South Carolina, as they're only up by a half game on them. Georgia has slowly but surely been climbing themselves out of an 0-2 hole, and now they're undefeated in the SEC East, and easily the class of that division currently.
Auburn is a good team, but not a particularly great one, as they've beaten the teams they've supposed to, but lost to the ones who are a class above them. They've got a good running back and defense, but no other true skill people.

Pick: Georgia 24, Auburn 13

NFL

Oakland at San Diego, 8:20, NFLN, Thursday

Both of these teams have really been scuffling, but since the AFC West is so bad, they're tied for first place at 4-4. San Diego has lost three straight, while Oakland has lost two straight. San Diego has blown leads and then lost to unquestionably the best team in football in the Packers, but they made the game close. Oakland just hasn't found its rhythm under new quarterback Carson Palmer. Palmer hasn't been quite the impact player that Oakland had hoped when they traded two high draft choices for him.
San Diego should have the upper hand, as they're getting their main running back in Ryan Mathews back and only use Mike Tolbert in third down and goal line situations. Their defense can attack Palmer, and since the Raiders don't really have that good of a running game now that Darren McFadden is out, they can force the Raiders to just get into passing mode and pick Palmer off easy.

Pick: San Diego 27, Oakland 20

New Orleans at Atlanta, 1, Fox

Atlanta is coming off an incredibly easy victory over the hapless Colts, where they performed well in ever facet of the game, and what team doesn't when facing the Colts? Julio Jones finally emerged last week as well as the elite receiver they were hoping in Julio Jones, with two touchdown catches and 130 yards. Atlanta will need to control the ball with Michael Turner and their secondary needs to step up against the potent passing game of Drew Brees and the Saints. This game is also important in the NFC South, as Atlanta is only a half game back of the Saints, and could determine who gets a home playoff game and who gets the wild card.

Pick: New Orleans 30, Atlanta 28

Pittsburgh at Cincinnati, 1, CBS

Cincinnati is a very surprising team coming out of the AFC North, as nobody expected them to do anything this season, as they lost Chad Ochocinco and Carson Palmer, while gaining their rookie replacements A.J. Green and Andy Dalton. Well, Cincinnati is now looking genius for that move, as they are 6-2 and both Dalton and Green are looking like pro bowl contenders.
Pittsburgh is coming off a very tough loss to Baltimore late in the fourth quarter, where their defense couldn't hold the lead. But, it seems like whenever Pittsburgh comes off a tough loss they always come back the next week and pummel their opponent. I expect no different here.

Pick: Pittsburgh 26, Cincy 13

New York Giants at San Francisco, 4:15, Fox

This is the biggest stage yet for the 49ers, as they are the featured game in Fox's late window and they're playing a team which just defeated the mighty Patriots. San Francisco continues to fly cross country and beat their opponents, as they did last week at Washington. San Francisco has been winning games using defense, a solid kicking game, a very good running game and a short passing game. Plus, Jim Harbaugh has been more than advertised as the new head coach.
New York meanwhile has much improved quarterback play from Eli Manning and they've gotten production out of their tight end, Jake Ballard, and Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz have really stepped up their games as wide receivers. This should be a very good hard fought, fairly low scoring game.

Pick: San Francisco 17, New York 13

New York Jets at New England, 8:20, NBC

New England can't lose three games in a row, can they? That hasn't happened since 2002. Granted, the defense isn't all that stout, they don't got all that good of a running game, but still, this is the Patriots, a team which hasn't lost three in a row since nine years ago. New York has been playing well lately, but there is no way I can foresee the Patriots losing three in a row, especially with Tom Brady at quarterback.

Pick: New England 28, New York 21

My thoughts on the Penn State Scandal

Tranqility, quiet, serenity, and football. These are the things you think of when you think of Pennsylvania State University. That was before the huge scandal that has rocked this great university. This scandal, for those of you who have been living under a rock, there are sexual molestation charges against former defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky. Then, because athletic director Tim Curley never reported this to the police, he has been charged with perjury and has been forced to resign, along with school Vice President Gary Schultz. This is the biggest scandal which has rocked this university in its history, which goes back to 1855.
This scandal breaks Penn State's slogan of "success with honor", as how can this program now have honor with this scandal? How could Curley and Schultz never have reported this to police? How could folks never have just called police and told them? How could police not have found anything wrong while investigating Sandusky and his foundation, the Second Mile?
Those are all rhetorical questions that we don't have the answer to. But, there are just so many layers to this story, and who knows what will come out of this story. Joe Paterno may not have his contract renewed after this season. Reports are coming out that the board of trustees are considering letting go of the coach which has put Penn State on the map, the one who's name is on the university library. Granted, Paterno never did anything criminally wrong. But, how could he not have called police after hearing from graduate assistant Mike McQueary what Sandusky was doing in the showers of the football buildings? So, Paterno did do something ethically wrong. Will this effect his status as an icon within the university and his coaching?
My opinion is no, it will not effect his status as an icon within the university, as people will still be talking about what he did to build up the university and putting it on the map. Without Paterno and the football program, who knows how many students would not have gone. Plus, noboday can deny what Paterno did in the football coaching world, the winningest coach ever in all of Division 1, is just crazy good.
However, Sandusky's image has been tainted forever in my opinion. Sandusky was known throughout the college football world as the best coordinator and coach to never hold a head coaching position. Even though he has done great work, this scandal, especially if he is proven guilty, will forever cast a cloud over him. Even if Sandusky is found not guilty, it will forever cast a gray cloud over his legacy as a man. How could the legacy of this man, if you still would like to call him that, not be tainted forever?
Now, for my thoughts on how the Penn State football team, and how they will fare this Saturday in their interdivision showdown, that will have to wait until tomorrow, as that's when my 10 Best Football games will come out.
O, and my stupidity and as Paterno said it best: "for the kids that were the victims, let's say a prayer for them."
I am a Christian, but definitely fumbled the ball here, as Dave Hershey pointed it out, thanks Dave, I appreciate it, I do. There are so many people who deserve blame, which I can't even say. Allow us to say a prayer for the victims and the families of this scandal.

10 Best Football Games-Week 10!

Shockingly enough, we are now into the double digits as far as weeks are concerned into the football season, and only four more weeks from Sunday until we find out who will be playing in the national championship game in college football. The winner of number 1 LSU versus number 2 Alabama will most likely play in that game in the heart of SEC country. The game on Saturday is being hyped by CBS, the network broadcasting the game, as "the game of the century." It very well could be that too, as both teams are so very evenly matched, I don't even know who to pick.
Then, in the NFL, the Philadelphia Eagles could be coming back, following two straight victories over division rivals Washington and Dallas, now possibly a win over a quality Chicago team would have them in prime position to make a run. So, the final month of the college football season should be fun to see who is going to play in the title game and also in the final two months of the NFL season, to see who will make the playoffs.

College

# 1 LSU at #2 Alabama, 8 p.m., CBS

This game is way too close to call, both teams have outstanding defenses, top five in the nation for both. Both teams have quality offenses, which are good, but not overtly great like Oklahoma State's offense. This game is just way too close to call, but here are some reasons as to why I think Alabama will win: four of the five regular season games involving 1 vs. 2 have been won by the number two team, Alabama is at home, where they have gone 24-1 over their past 25 games there, with the only loss being the blowup against Auburn last season. Finally, Alabama is 45-24 over the course of the rivalry.

Pick: Alabama 20, LSU 17

#9 South Carolina at #7 Arkansas, 7:15, ESPN

This week proves the depth and also probably the bias of most to the SEC, as four of the top nine teams in the BCS are from the SEC. However, South Carolina should not win this game at all, or even have a chance. South Carolina lost its starting quarterback to his stupidity and rampant drug use, and they lost possibly the second best running back in the SEC in Marcus Lattimore to a torn ACL. Arkansas has a great quarterback in Tyler Wilson, can mix it up with running back combo Denis Johnson and Ronnie Wingo. Plus, Arkansas is looking to rebound from their horrible performance against Vandy a week ago.

Pick: Arkansas 44, South Carolina 13

#14 Kansas State at #3 Oklahoma State, 8, ESPN2

Kansas State proved last week why they never should have been ranked in the top ten, as they were thoroughly dominated by Oklahoma at home no less. The final score was 58-17 in favor of Oklahoma. Expect the same kind of shellacking at the hands of Oklahoma State this time. Kansas State just doesn't have the athletes to keep up with the high powered offenses of Oklahoma or Oklahoma State. Expect Brandon Weeden and Justin Blackmon to light it up at home.

Pick: OSU 61, K-State 21

Notre Dame at Wake Forest, 8, ABC

The formula for Notre Dame is simple, have a turnover margin of -1 or a positive one, they win, if they turn the ball over more than twice, you will probably lose. Simple as that, and since there is no way to predict that, I'm going with Notre Dame, because they've got better athletes and while Wake is a good team, they're nowhere close to Notre Dame's level.

Pick: Notre Dame 35, Wake 21

#8 Oregon at Washington, 10:30, Fox Sports Net, or Comcast SportsNet

This is actually a fairly interesting game, as while Washington may be unranked, their only two losses came against very quality opponents in Nebraska and Stanford. However, those are the only two quality opponents that the Huskies have played. But, both were on the road. So, this game could be tricky for Oregon. Oregon has been in relative obscurity ever since their opening week loss to LSU, Oregon has been rolling, scoring at least 41 points in each of their seven victories. So, while Washington may put up a bit of a fight at the beginning, Oregon should pull away in the second half for a nice victory.

Pick: Oregon 46, Washington 28

NFL

Tampa Bay at New Orleans, 1, Fox

New Orleans played pitifully last week against St. Louis, when they lost to a winless team. Tampa meanwhile is coming off a bye, which is helpful, as they are coming back from London, and a loss. This will be the second and final time in four weeks, when Tampa won in a tightly contested affair in Tampa. My gut feeling is that New Orleans should bounce back from their awful performance against St. Louis and establish themselves as the class of the NFC South again.

Pick: New Orleans 31, Tampa 17

New York Jets at Buffalo, 1, CBS

Interesting game, as New York is coming off a bye, and Buffalo is coming back to the states after thoroughly destroying reeling Washington in Toronto last week. Buffalo is continuing to win, somehow, but, the main force behind their wins has been their defenses ability to create turnovers, as they have a 2:1 ratio with turnovers. New York should be trying to take advantage of Buffalo's fairly weak rushing defense, as they've allowed nearly 120 yards per game. New York should be refreshed and run Shonn Greene plenty throughout the game.

Pick: New York 27, Buffalo 21

New York Giants at New England, 4:15, Fox

A rematch of that infamous Super Bowl XLII, where New York merged victorious and ruined New England's perfect season. Both teams are pretty equally matched here as well, as New England has their usual potent offense led by Tom Brady and his wide array of receivers. New York has its own nice blend of receivers, including two up and comers in Victor Cruz and tight end Jake Ballard to go along with their solid 1-2 punch of Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs. So, it should be one heckuva game, and relatively high scoring.

Pick: New England 34, New York 24

Baltimore at Pittsburgh, 8:20, NBC

After week one, most were already crowning the Ravens as the best team in the AFC, but since that opening week thumping b the Ravens, Pittsburgh has gone 6-1, with their only loss to another division leader in Houston. Now, this game is just going to be hard hitting, pure smashmouth football. Plus, it should be a lot closer than what the first one was. Both teams just plain dislike each other and both fanbases can't stand each other. This should be one close and filled with defense.

Pick: Pittsburgh 14, Baltimore 13

Chicago at Philadelphia, 8:30, ESPN, Monday

Philadelphia has looked sharp in their past two games, not turning the ball over, and last week they played a very solid full 60 minutes of football. Chicago is somewhat of a mystery team, as they can play really well one week, and not so much the following. They played fairly well in London against Tampa in their victory. Chicago has two big weapons, those being return man Devin Hester, who can run one back at any time, as he is the all-time return leader. Then, their all purpose running back in Matt Forte, who can rack up 200 all purpose yards in any game.
Philadelphia has their own all purpose back in LeSean McCoy, who leads the Philadelphia rushing attack. Philadelphia is much like Notre Dame in the fact that if they do not turn the ball over, they're pretty good. Then, on the defensive side of the ball, their "wide 9" defense seems to be working better, with maligned defensive coordinator Juan Castillo and defensive line coach Jim Washburn making the proper adjustments in running and passing situations. So, things seem to be coming together, and just at the right time.

Pick: Philadelphia 24, Chicago 23

World Series thoughts.

This World Series was amazing. It had it all, great defense, bad defense, historic offensive nights, historic blows, extra innings, high scoring games, low scoring games, I could go on. Only 36th game seven in World Series history. All games were close, except for game three in Arlington, which was won by nine runs. But, if you're a fan of the game, this World Series was just so compelling. All games had a high sense of drama, at one point or another.
Game one had it going back and forth, knowing with this Rangers team, that they could come back and force extra innings.
Game two went back to Texas, due to some great pitching by Colby Lewis and the Ranger bullpen. Game two also featured some high drama in the ninth inning, just as it looked when Texas was going to be down 2-0 in games in consecutive World Series, Ian Kinsler, Elvis Andrus and Josh Hamilton all came up big for the Rangers. It also featured some help from Albert Pujols, who misplayed a ball coming in from the outfield, which allowed Andrus to get into scoring position.
Game three was what most expected, as the Series shifted back to Texas and the warm weather and the hitter friendly nature of the Rangers ballpark. It also featured only the third game in World Series history to have three home runs hit in one game by one player. Only fitting that the player was Albert Pujols, who many consider to be the best player in the game.
Game four shifted back to Texas' favor, with an absolute gem of a pitching performance by little known Derek Holland, who pitched 8 1/3 innings of shutout baseball. Also featured Mike Napoli starting to make his case for World Series MVP at that point, with his three run home run to give the Rangers the lead for good.
Game five was pivotal for both teams, as it was then just a best of three scenario, with St. Louis having home field advantage. Texas really needed this game in the minds of many, as then they would only have to win one of the final two games in St. Louis before winning their first championship in franchise history, which goes back 50 years. Texas pulled it out in the eighth, with Napoli making an emphatic case to be MVP with his go ahead two run double in that inning. This game also featured some bullpen phone malfunctions, which must be resolved next season before something chaotic ensues.
Game six was the most drama filled game in recent memory, as in the first few innings, nobody seemed to know how to play defense, which had five errors combined before the fifth inning. Game six was also the only extra inning game in this World Series, which is remarkable, considering how much drama it had. St. Louis then proved themselves to truly be comeback kids, starting in the eighth inning, when Allen Craig hit a solo homer, then in the ninth, the Cardinals came back off great closer Neftali Feliz, when David Freese, a homegrown talent, literally came up and tied the game with a triple. Then, in the tenth, Jason Motte, who was terrific throughout the final month of the regular season and in the postseason, blew it, when Josh Hamilton hit a bomb to make it 9-7 Texas. But, in the bottom half of the inning, the Cardinals came back again, their second time, and the second time down to their final strike. The game ended at 12:35 eastern time, but from my perspective, it was thrilling when David Freese again came through with a solo home run to force a game seven.
Game seven wasn't as drama filled as the others, but it still packed quite a punch, with Texas seeming to shake off the loss from game six with ease, going ahead two nothing, but the the Cardinals roared right back, with a two spot in the bottom half of the first. Then, it was all Cardinals.

The Cardinals were an improbable World Series team at the beginning of September, being 8.5 games back of the Atlanta Braves in the Wild Card, something very few teams have done, but they just went on a tear at the end of the season, and into the postseason. First, they beat a team who many considered to be the team to beat in the Philadelphia Phillies in five games, then they beat their divisional rival in the Brewers in six games, then they denied the Rangers their first World Series title. So many words can describe this team, but only one does it for me: persevere. That is what this team did throughout the end of the season. St. Louis fans should be proud of this team, and now they're praying that their best player Albert Pujols doesn't sign elsewhere and give that team a World Series title. Pujols shouldn't go anywhere though, as he has invested himself into the community in St. Louis and he will be revered throughout the area and possibly displace Stan "the man" Musial sa the greatest Cardinal of all time.
Hope the blog was enjoyable!

10 Best Football Games-Week 9

Last week there were another two teams eliminated from the national title chase. The first being Oklahoma, who, despite being an over 20 point favorite at home, lost to an underrated Texas Tech team, who is sitting anonymously in the Big 12, behind Texas, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Kansas State. The second being Wisconsin, who lost a thrilling game to Michigan State on a Hail Mary throw.
Last week in the NFL also came Tim Tebow time in Denver, where Tebow helped lead the Broncos on a fourth quarter comeback, and dazzled then, despite really stinking in the first 55 minutes of the game. Detroit also lost again, and could this be the beginning of the end for Detroit? Probably not, as the team is too good to not revert back to their old losing ways.
This week in the NFL, there are some very poor games to choose from. So, really don't be surprised if I don't have much analysis for the last three games I choose in my five best NFL games. But, in college, there is a top ten match up, and a top 15 match up, as well as an SEC East rivalry game. Plus, two other intriguing match ups. So, it's a good week in college though. So, it's better to watch Saturday than Sunday if you're a football fan.

College

# 9 Oklahoma at # 8 Kansas State, 3:30, ESPN

This is a very interesting game, as Kansas State wasn't ranked at the beginning of the season, but under the mastery of head coach Bill Snyder, K-State is undefeated heading into this game in Manhattan. Granted, the players have to do their part as well, and Colin Klein has definitely been doing his part for the Wildcats, accumulating over 1500 yards from scrimmage thus far this season. Oklahoma, meanwhile was ranked number one in the preseason AP poll, which shows you why there shouldn't be preseason polls. Anyway, this team is still really good, they just let themselves down on Saturday. I expect them to rebound quite nicely against an overrated Kansas State team, who, with the exception of last week and a game against Kent State, has won all of their games by single digits.

Pick: Oklahoma 48, Kansas State 13

#11 Michigan State at #14 Nebraska, noon, ESPN

This game is a crucial game within the Big Ten Legends division. As Nebraska trails the leader Michigan State by one game in this division, with their only loss to Wisconsin, when they got rudely welcomed into the conference. Nebraska is experiencing its second Big Ten home game, the first one, they narrowly escaped a weak Ohio State team. This one is going to be interesting, as Michigan State is coming off an emotional last second win to take control of their own destiny in the Legends division. These two teams are very evenly matched, so I cannot pick a winner, but it's essentially a toss up.

Pick: Michigan State 27, Nebraska 26

Illinois at # 19 Penn State, 3:30, ABC

Illinois has been going downhill in their past two games, losing to a mediocre Ohio State team, then a bad Purdue team. Illinois last good win came in mid September when they defeated Arizona State, and even that was at home, and a 11 a.m. local start. So, with that said, Penn State should easily win, and go to 8-1 on the season. Their defense has been holding opponents down throughout the season, and the offense gets just enough to get the job done, which they will do again here.

Pick: Penn State 20, Illinois 14

# 22 Georgia vs. Florida (at Jacksonville), 3:30, CBS

Florida has dropped three straight games, granted all three were to ranked opponents, and this is a transitional year for the Gators under new head coach Will Muschamp. However, this team should be amped up for the "World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party." This is still a rivalry game, and should be a good one. Georgia on the other hand, has seemed to find its footing after losing two straight to open the season to find itself on top of the SEC East and control of its own destiny. Georgia hasn't won since they beat a top 10 Florida team in this rivalry since 2007. I expect this group to win this time.

Pick: Georgia 30, Florida 21

# 6 Stanford at USC, 8, ABC

This could be Stanford's best shot at losing before facing Oregon in two weeks at home. USC is coming off a great win at Notre Dame, where Notre Dame again made plenty of mistakes and USC capitalized on them. While SC is on probation, they can't play in any bowl games, so this could be their bowl game of sorts. The Trojans are still a fantastic team. However, Stanford feels under appreciated for being ranked below an ACC team and the traditional east coast bias. Plus, they want a shot at the national title.

Pick: Stanford 45, USC 23

NFL

New England at Pittsburgh, 4:15, CBS

This game is the best out of a weak slate of games in the NFL this week. But, there is a caveat, which Steeler team is going to show up? The one who's butts were whipped in week one versus the Ravens, or the one that has been showing up for the past six games, where the defense has shown up in a big way. My guess is the former, as New England and Tom Brady has absolutely destroyed the Steelers this decade. Pittsburgh is 1-7 against New England when Brady starts, including the postseason. Well, Brady is healthy, and New England is coming off a bye week, that spells trouble for the Steelers.

Pick: New England 38, Pittsburgh 16

Dallas at Philadelphia, 8:20, NBC

This game is too close to call, as both teams are capable of a lot of self-infliction through turnovers. Plus, this is a rivalry game, no matter what, both teams will play hard. Philadelphia is undefeated after the bye under Andy Reid, so that is something to consider. However, something else to consider is DeMarco Murray just ran for a Cowboys record 253 yards last week versus the hapless Rams and the Eagles are really bad against the run. So, this game is really a toss up. But, I'm going to put my money on the Eagles, and hope they don't shoot themselves in the foot.

Pick: Philadelphia 24, Dallas 20

Cleveland at San Francisco, 4:15, CBS

No Peyton Hillis, no shot for the Browns against a very much improved 49ers team.

Pick: San Francsico 31, Cleveland 13

Washington vs. Buffalo (in Toronto), 4:05, Fox

John Beck is the Redskins quarterback, plus no Santana Moss, plus Buffalo coming off a bye. Advantage Buffalo.

Pick: Buffalo 24, Washington 10

San Diego at Kansas City, 8:30 Monday, ESPN

Somehow Kansas City has won three straight even with their best defensive and best offensive players gone. This game could get Kansas City into a tie with San Diego for the division lead, and it's at home. So, players could be psyched up for this game. But, I don't think San Diego will let that happen, they have too many weapons and are coming off a let down loss at the Jets.

Pick: San Diego 34, Kansas City 23