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!
Friday, October 28, 2011
Thursday, October 27, 2011
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
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
Friday, October 21, 2011
10 Best Football Games-Week 8!
Another week of football, another week full of surprises, as the Saints lost to the Bucs, who proved that they are in it for the long haul. There was a great game, as expected in Detroit, and then the now infamous post game handshake between Jim Schwartz and Jim Harbaugh. In college, two unbeatens went down in Michigan and Illinois. While an unbeaten emerged in Houston, as nobody knew about them until their first emergence into the BCS standings this week.
The college slate of games is rather weak this week, with only one big game between ranked teams, a potentially interesting one between another two, and a more than likely blowout between ranked teams. Then, the rest of the slate is rather slim pickings, and I'm not going to go outside of the BCS conferences to pick a game until the Boise State/TCU game later in the season and not going to pick games outside those conferences until bowl season. Sorry to all those fans of Conference USA, the Sun Belt, and the WAC, but outside of the surrounding area where those colleges are, nobody cares.
Then, in the NFL, there is only one game which really stands out as a truly premier game, and that one could even turn out to be a clunker, as the San Diego Chargers travel cross country to play the New York Jets, who are standing at 3-3 and trying to get back into the thick of the playoff race in the AFC. That game is also an early start, which is why I say, it could be tricky. The rest of the games are just kinda interesting. So, there won't be too much as far as analysis, just kinda a lot of picking. Now, without further ado, here are the games and picks!
College (all rankings are now BCS rankings)
#6 Wisconsin at #16 Michigan State, 8 p.m., ESPN
This is great intraconference matchup, and could help Penn State if Michigan State loses and Penn State somehow continues to win against Northwestern. Michigan State has a big advantage, as Wisconsin is facing its first true test on the road this season, and first road game period. So, it will definitely be an adjustment, and it'll be interesting to see how Wisconsin handles it. Wisconsin on paper, looks like it has everything going for them, but Michigan State does have a pretty good defense, as they've only allowed more than 14 points once, and that was in their lone loss to Notre Dame, where they gave up 31.Michigan State is lacking a starting linebacker in William Gholston for his stupidity against Michigan last week where he punched a Michigan player in the face. I think Wisconsin narrowly pulls this one out.
Pick: Wisconsin 34, Michigan State 32
#20 Auburn at #1 LSU, 3:30, CBS
This game is interesting, as LSU has suspended two starting defensive backs in Tyrann Mathieu and Tharold Simon, as well as their leading rusher in Spencer Ware for testing positive for synthetic marijuana. Now, they made a really stupid mistake, and they're lucky for only being suspended one game and not kicked off the team. But, thankfully for LSU, they've got plenty of other defensive weapons around and Auburn is starting a true freshman quarterback in his first SEC start. This spells trouble for Clint Moseley and the Auburn offensive line who will be trying to protect him. Moseley will be handing the ball off to stud running back Michael Dyer. Granted, it still won't be enough, as LSU has way too much other talent.
Pick: LSU 27, Auburn 17
#25 Washington at #8 Stanford, 8, ABC
This is the blowout game which I was referring to that features two ranked teams. Granted Steve Sarkisian has done a wonderful job in the pacific northwest bringing in talent and helping the Huskies regain their footing as a solid team in major college football. He even helped recruit their new starting quarterback in Keith Price, who has been excellent thus far this season, going for over 1400 yards and more than a 5-1 touchdown to interception ratio. Unfortunately for Washington, they're running into the buzzsaw which is Andrew Luck and the Stanford Cardinal, who are just destroying every single opponent which comes in their wake.
Pick: Stanford 45, Washington 21
USC at Notre Dame, 7:30, NBC
Notre Dame is rolling right now, as they've cut down on their turnovers significantly since their first two games against South Florida and Michigan, and are now learning how to protect the football. As in their four victories, the Irish have only turned the ball over a combined five times, compared to their 11 turnovers in their two losses. So, Notre Dame should win in their first night game at home since 1990 if they don't turn the ball over. Granted, USC is very good, and will be really good once they come off probation, but as of right now, they'll be above average and not great.
Pick: Notre Dame 27, USC 20
Penn State at Northwestern, 7, Big Ten Network
Northwestern really hasn't been that good of a team thus far this season, even when Dan Persa returned from his achillies' injury. Penn State hasn't been all that good of an offensive team, but could actually score some points in this game, as Northwestern allows 30 points per game. Penn State has however been a fantastic defensive team, only giving up a little bit more than 11 a game. And, as long as Penn State doesn't shoot themselves in the foot on offense and continue to play this great defense, they could conceivably make it to the inaugural Big Ten championship game.
Pick: Penn State 31, Northwestern 23
NFL
San Diego at New York Jets, 1, CBS
Norv Turner and Rex Ryan, the head coaches of the Chargers and Jets respectively had a war of words with each other, so the end game handshake should be something to keep an eye on again in this game. But, as far as the players are concerned, the Jets are just coming off a great win over the lowly Dolphins, and the defense looked very good in the win. The offense continued to scuffle however. San Diego, meanwhile has had two weeks to prepare for this game, and they've been off to a fast start, which is incredibly uncharacteristic of them, as they normally start out slow and then turn it on in the end. But, they seem to be firing on all cylinders at the moment.
Pick: San Diego 23, New York 17
Chicago at Tampa Bay (in London), 1, FOX
This game should be played in Tampa, as the fans in Tampa should be seeing this game, not London. Granted, the game has been highly successful over there, so if the NFL wants to put a team over there, they should be able to by now. But, as far as the teams are concerned, Chicago is coming off an easy win versus Minnesota, where they completely manhandled them. But, Chicago still gives up way too many sacks and are not all that good of an all around offensive team outside of Matt Forte. Tampa meanwhile, is coming off a big win against New Orleans, and both teams should be playing well. It's going to be a close game, and could come into overtime, so it's really a toss up.
Pick: Tampa 28, Chicago 27
Atlanta at Detroit, 1, FOX
This is a very good game, as Detroit is going to be out to prove itself after its first loss of the season against San Francisco. Detroit is still a very good team, don't let that loss fool you, as San Francisco is also very good. Atlanta is going on the road, where they are not very good, however it is still a dome which they are going to, and the Falcons love domes. But, I think Detroit will prove themselves this game to be a potent force.
Pick: Detroit 31, Atlanta 20
Houston at Tennessee, 1, CBS
Andre Johnson and Mario Williams are still out for the Texans, which spells bad news, as the Texans do not play very well at all without those two players, as those two players are the best playmakers for that team. Tennessee meanwhile has been a pleasant surprise in the AFC South, and should be playing well again. The team isn't flashy, but they get the job done.
Pick: Tennessee 34, Houston 14
Kansas City at Oakland, 4:05, CBS
This game could be Carson Palmer's first game back on an NFL field since last season. For those uninformed, Palmer refused to report to the Cincinnati Bengals if he wasn't traded. Well, thanks to Jason Campbell getting injured for the Raiders, Oakland worked out a huge trade for Palmer. But, no firm decision has been made yet, and Palmer should be re-energized being in a better environment than was in Cincy. The Raiders have been much improved this season, so it will help them win now, but they may have mortgaged their future, giving away a first round pick next year and a conditional second rounder in 2013. Kanas City has bene playing better since they lost Jamaal Charles and Eric Berry due to season ending injuries. But, this team is still nowhere near the team they were last season.
Pick: Oakland 29, Kansas City 21
Enjoy this weekend of football and baseball!
The college slate of games is rather weak this week, with only one big game between ranked teams, a potentially interesting one between another two, and a more than likely blowout between ranked teams. Then, the rest of the slate is rather slim pickings, and I'm not going to go outside of the BCS conferences to pick a game until the Boise State/TCU game later in the season and not going to pick games outside those conferences until bowl season. Sorry to all those fans of Conference USA, the Sun Belt, and the WAC, but outside of the surrounding area where those colleges are, nobody cares.
Then, in the NFL, there is only one game which really stands out as a truly premier game, and that one could even turn out to be a clunker, as the San Diego Chargers travel cross country to play the New York Jets, who are standing at 3-3 and trying to get back into the thick of the playoff race in the AFC. That game is also an early start, which is why I say, it could be tricky. The rest of the games are just kinda interesting. So, there won't be too much as far as analysis, just kinda a lot of picking. Now, without further ado, here are the games and picks!
College (all rankings are now BCS rankings)
#6 Wisconsin at #16 Michigan State, 8 p.m., ESPN
This is great intraconference matchup, and could help Penn State if Michigan State loses and Penn State somehow continues to win against Northwestern. Michigan State has a big advantage, as Wisconsin is facing its first true test on the road this season, and first road game period. So, it will definitely be an adjustment, and it'll be interesting to see how Wisconsin handles it. Wisconsin on paper, looks like it has everything going for them, but Michigan State does have a pretty good defense, as they've only allowed more than 14 points once, and that was in their lone loss to Notre Dame, where they gave up 31.Michigan State is lacking a starting linebacker in William Gholston for his stupidity against Michigan last week where he punched a Michigan player in the face. I think Wisconsin narrowly pulls this one out.
Pick: Wisconsin 34, Michigan State 32
#20 Auburn at #1 LSU, 3:30, CBS
This game is interesting, as LSU has suspended two starting defensive backs in Tyrann Mathieu and Tharold Simon, as well as their leading rusher in Spencer Ware for testing positive for synthetic marijuana. Now, they made a really stupid mistake, and they're lucky for only being suspended one game and not kicked off the team. But, thankfully for LSU, they've got plenty of other defensive weapons around and Auburn is starting a true freshman quarterback in his first SEC start. This spells trouble for Clint Moseley and the Auburn offensive line who will be trying to protect him. Moseley will be handing the ball off to stud running back Michael Dyer. Granted, it still won't be enough, as LSU has way too much other talent.
Pick: LSU 27, Auburn 17
#25 Washington at #8 Stanford, 8, ABC
This is the blowout game which I was referring to that features two ranked teams. Granted Steve Sarkisian has done a wonderful job in the pacific northwest bringing in talent and helping the Huskies regain their footing as a solid team in major college football. He even helped recruit their new starting quarterback in Keith Price, who has been excellent thus far this season, going for over 1400 yards and more than a 5-1 touchdown to interception ratio. Unfortunately for Washington, they're running into the buzzsaw which is Andrew Luck and the Stanford Cardinal, who are just destroying every single opponent which comes in their wake.
Pick: Stanford 45, Washington 21
USC at Notre Dame, 7:30, NBC
Notre Dame is rolling right now, as they've cut down on their turnovers significantly since their first two games against South Florida and Michigan, and are now learning how to protect the football. As in their four victories, the Irish have only turned the ball over a combined five times, compared to their 11 turnovers in their two losses. So, Notre Dame should win in their first night game at home since 1990 if they don't turn the ball over. Granted, USC is very good, and will be really good once they come off probation, but as of right now, they'll be above average and not great.
Pick: Notre Dame 27, USC 20
Penn State at Northwestern, 7, Big Ten Network
Northwestern really hasn't been that good of a team thus far this season, even when Dan Persa returned from his achillies' injury. Penn State hasn't been all that good of an offensive team, but could actually score some points in this game, as Northwestern allows 30 points per game. Penn State has however been a fantastic defensive team, only giving up a little bit more than 11 a game. And, as long as Penn State doesn't shoot themselves in the foot on offense and continue to play this great defense, they could conceivably make it to the inaugural Big Ten championship game.
Pick: Penn State 31, Northwestern 23
NFL
San Diego at New York Jets, 1, CBS
Norv Turner and Rex Ryan, the head coaches of the Chargers and Jets respectively had a war of words with each other, so the end game handshake should be something to keep an eye on again in this game. But, as far as the players are concerned, the Jets are just coming off a great win over the lowly Dolphins, and the defense looked very good in the win. The offense continued to scuffle however. San Diego, meanwhile has had two weeks to prepare for this game, and they've been off to a fast start, which is incredibly uncharacteristic of them, as they normally start out slow and then turn it on in the end. But, they seem to be firing on all cylinders at the moment.
Pick: San Diego 23, New York 17
Chicago at Tampa Bay (in London), 1, FOX
This game should be played in Tampa, as the fans in Tampa should be seeing this game, not London. Granted, the game has been highly successful over there, so if the NFL wants to put a team over there, they should be able to by now. But, as far as the teams are concerned, Chicago is coming off an easy win versus Minnesota, where they completely manhandled them. But, Chicago still gives up way too many sacks and are not all that good of an all around offensive team outside of Matt Forte. Tampa meanwhile, is coming off a big win against New Orleans, and both teams should be playing well. It's going to be a close game, and could come into overtime, so it's really a toss up.
Pick: Tampa 28, Chicago 27
Atlanta at Detroit, 1, FOX
This is a very good game, as Detroit is going to be out to prove itself after its first loss of the season against San Francisco. Detroit is still a very good team, don't let that loss fool you, as San Francisco is also very good. Atlanta is going on the road, where they are not very good, however it is still a dome which they are going to, and the Falcons love domes. But, I think Detroit will prove themselves this game to be a potent force.
Pick: Detroit 31, Atlanta 20
Houston at Tennessee, 1, CBS
Andre Johnson and Mario Williams are still out for the Texans, which spells bad news, as the Texans do not play very well at all without those two players, as those two players are the best playmakers for that team. Tennessee meanwhile has been a pleasant surprise in the AFC South, and should be playing well again. The team isn't flashy, but they get the job done.
Pick: Tennessee 34, Houston 14
Kansas City at Oakland, 4:05, CBS
This game could be Carson Palmer's first game back on an NFL field since last season. For those uninformed, Palmer refused to report to the Cincinnati Bengals if he wasn't traded. Well, thanks to Jason Campbell getting injured for the Raiders, Oakland worked out a huge trade for Palmer. But, no firm decision has been made yet, and Palmer should be re-energized being in a better environment than was in Cincy. The Raiders have been much improved this season, so it will help them win now, but they may have mortgaged their future, giving away a first round pick next year and a conditional second rounder in 2013. Kanas City has bene playing better since they lost Jamaal Charles and Eric Berry due to season ending injuries. But, this team is still nowhere near the team they were last season.
Pick: Oakland 29, Kansas City 21
Enjoy this weekend of football and baseball!
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
NHL Preview!
Yes, I know the NHL season is already nearly two weeks in, however, all teams have played five games or less, and there have been zero significant injuries. So, with that said, its fair enough that I'm still writing a preview. Plus, I didn't even realize the NHL season was even beginning until opening night when Versus/NBC Sports network started to hype it and the Flyers were playing their first game against the defending champion Bruins. But, now I'm writing a preview, along with my friend Bryan Miller who wrote the Western conference portion of the blog, as I don't have much of a clue about that side of the NHL.
There are two significant changes headed into the season that I'd like to blog about before getting into the actual teams. The first is that the aforementioned Versus/NBC Sports network and NBC are the exclusive rights holders of the NHL in the United States for the next decade. So, if you're still having trouble finding Versus on your cable/satellite provider and you're a NHL fan, find it soon and keep it there. NBC also now has 10 exclusive games over the course of a season, including a Black Friday telecast and the now holy grail of the regular season, the Winter Classic, which this year will feature the Philadelphia Flyers taking on the New York Rangers at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia on January 2, as January 1 falls on a Sunday and the NHL didn't want to compete against the NFL as far as ratings attention goes.
The second change is that there is no longer a team in Atlanta, as the team once known as the Thrashers now play in a former/new NHL city in Winnipeg, and its about time. The team is now known as the Jets, which was the name of the former Coyotes in Winnipeg. Now, as Gary Bettman, the commissioner of the league should figure out, never put a team in the south again. Especially in Atlanta, where hockey has failed twice now. It failed in the '70s and it has failed again. I feel bad for the true fans in Atlanta, but now root for your team in Winnipeg, as the previous owner was a bum, but the team still has the same players. Granted, Winnipeg is still in the Southeastern division which makes zero sense, but scheduling and shuffling of teams would've been way too difficult. So, for this season, Winnipeg still has to travel to Miami to play the Panthers four times and vice versa. But, its the way it is for now. Next year, it should be different.
Now, as I actually get into the preview, I'll only be writing three paragraphs, one of the teams which should make it in the east, one of some teams that you traditionally think of as playoff teams but will fail, and the last will be of some surprising teams. Bryan wrote three paragraphs, basically giving you a slight preview of each division. At the end of each conference preview, we'll give you our playoff teams along with division winners as noted by asterisk and a Stanley Cup Final match up. Now, on to the preview!
Eastern Conference
The East is filled with traditional powerhouses such as the Rangers, Flyers, Penguins, Capitals, Lightning, Bruins, and Canadiens. Granted the Lightning have only been relevant for the past decade, but they've been pretty good in that decade. All of these teams should have a relatively easy road to the playoffs, as all these teams have solid goaltending and great offenses. As an example, the Capitals have arguably the biggest superstar in the league in Alex Ovechkin, and while his point total has been going down a little bit, he's still an offensive horse. Then the Flyers have some budding superstars in James Van Riemsdyk and Claude Giroux to play with an experienced player like Jaromir Jagr who wanted one last chance at a cup. The only teams out of these seven which I see as having potential hurdles to making it back to the playoffs would be the Lightning if Dwayne Roloson, their 41 year old goalie breaks down, as they don't really have a reliable backup. The Canadiens, as they have three good players, but not truly great. And the Bruins, as they may have a Stanley Cup hangover, but they should still be ok.
Now, for some of the teams which you think of as being normally good, and could really stink it up. The first team that comes to mind is the New Jersey Devils, as this team is continually getting older, and they had a dreadful start to last season before turning the jets on in the second half and making a run at the playoffs which eventually failed. Then, some people may remember the Carolina Hurricanes, who won the Stanley Cup in 2006 under now Flyers head coach Peter Laviolette, they haven't made the playoffs since 2009, and they look to be on the outside again, as they have a fairly thin defense.
Finally, there are two teams which I think could surprise, in the New York Islanders, who have a very good goalie in Evgeni Nabokov who finally agreed to play for them this season, after refusing to report to Long Island last season. Nabokov is still a solid goalie, even at the age of 35, and the Isles have some good young talent around him in John Tavares, who has the capability of scoring 50 goals in a season, as well as Nino Niederreiter, who also has the same capability. The other team would be the Toronto Maple Leafs, who, under the direction of genius general manager Brian Burke have been rebuilding and look to make the playoffs for the first time since 2004. I think this team has the talent to do it, and they should be able to.
Playoff teams:
1. Washington Capitals*
2. Pittsburgh Penguins*
3. Buffalo Sabres*
4. New York Rangers*
5. Philadelphia Flyers*
6. Boston Bruins
7. Toronto Maple Leafs
8. New York Islanders
Stanley Cup Final: Pittsburgh vs. Detroit Red Wings
Western Conference
Central Division
This division is on of the best in hockey talent wise. All 5 of these teams could win the division cause thats how good these teams are. In reality tho only 3 possibly 4 have a chance of making it since they play each other so many times in the year. Detroit and Chicago are def the front runners. I say watch out for St. Louis though. They are going to surprise people this year. Nashville and Columbus will bring up the rear of the division and battle for one of the last playoff spots.
Northwest Division
Vancouver is the top of the division I wouldn't expect anything less unless bearing injuries. Minnesota, Colorado, and Edmonton are the middle of the pack in this division and can go in any order with all the youth they have on their teams.
Calgary has a lot of the same players as last year and need to shake things up to make their team better and didn't do that.
Pacific Division
L.A. is the front runner with all the great moves this off-season not even close with any other team. San Jose and Anaheim are your middle of the pack and San Jose will have something to prove this year cause they want to get over the hump of the western conference finals this year. Phoenix and Dallas still have some work to do I think and their are some players who want out of Phoenix which is not a good thing for chemistry for the team.
Playoff Rankings
1. L.A. Kings*
2 Vancouver Canucks*
3 Detroit Red Wings*
4. Chicago Blackhawks
5.San Jose Sharks
6. Colorado Avalanche
7. St. Louis Blues
8. Anaheim Ducks
-------------------------------------
9. Nashville Predators
10 Minnesota Wild
11. Edmonton Oilers
12. Dallas Stars
13. Columbus Blue Jackets
14.Phoenix Coyotes
15. Calgary Flames
There are two significant changes headed into the season that I'd like to blog about before getting into the actual teams. The first is that the aforementioned Versus/NBC Sports network and NBC are the exclusive rights holders of the NHL in the United States for the next decade. So, if you're still having trouble finding Versus on your cable/satellite provider and you're a NHL fan, find it soon and keep it there. NBC also now has 10 exclusive games over the course of a season, including a Black Friday telecast and the now holy grail of the regular season, the Winter Classic, which this year will feature the Philadelphia Flyers taking on the New York Rangers at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia on January 2, as January 1 falls on a Sunday and the NHL didn't want to compete against the NFL as far as ratings attention goes.
The second change is that there is no longer a team in Atlanta, as the team once known as the Thrashers now play in a former/new NHL city in Winnipeg, and its about time. The team is now known as the Jets, which was the name of the former Coyotes in Winnipeg. Now, as Gary Bettman, the commissioner of the league should figure out, never put a team in the south again. Especially in Atlanta, where hockey has failed twice now. It failed in the '70s and it has failed again. I feel bad for the true fans in Atlanta, but now root for your team in Winnipeg, as the previous owner was a bum, but the team still has the same players. Granted, Winnipeg is still in the Southeastern division which makes zero sense, but scheduling and shuffling of teams would've been way too difficult. So, for this season, Winnipeg still has to travel to Miami to play the Panthers four times and vice versa. But, its the way it is for now. Next year, it should be different.
Now, as I actually get into the preview, I'll only be writing three paragraphs, one of the teams which should make it in the east, one of some teams that you traditionally think of as playoff teams but will fail, and the last will be of some surprising teams. Bryan wrote three paragraphs, basically giving you a slight preview of each division. At the end of each conference preview, we'll give you our playoff teams along with division winners as noted by asterisk and a Stanley Cup Final match up. Now, on to the preview!
Eastern Conference
The East is filled with traditional powerhouses such as the Rangers, Flyers, Penguins, Capitals, Lightning, Bruins, and Canadiens. Granted the Lightning have only been relevant for the past decade, but they've been pretty good in that decade. All of these teams should have a relatively easy road to the playoffs, as all these teams have solid goaltending and great offenses. As an example, the Capitals have arguably the biggest superstar in the league in Alex Ovechkin, and while his point total has been going down a little bit, he's still an offensive horse. Then the Flyers have some budding superstars in James Van Riemsdyk and Claude Giroux to play with an experienced player like Jaromir Jagr who wanted one last chance at a cup. The only teams out of these seven which I see as having potential hurdles to making it back to the playoffs would be the Lightning if Dwayne Roloson, their 41 year old goalie breaks down, as they don't really have a reliable backup. The Canadiens, as they have three good players, but not truly great. And the Bruins, as they may have a Stanley Cup hangover, but they should still be ok.
Now, for some of the teams which you think of as being normally good, and could really stink it up. The first team that comes to mind is the New Jersey Devils, as this team is continually getting older, and they had a dreadful start to last season before turning the jets on in the second half and making a run at the playoffs which eventually failed. Then, some people may remember the Carolina Hurricanes, who won the Stanley Cup in 2006 under now Flyers head coach Peter Laviolette, they haven't made the playoffs since 2009, and they look to be on the outside again, as they have a fairly thin defense.
Finally, there are two teams which I think could surprise, in the New York Islanders, who have a very good goalie in Evgeni Nabokov who finally agreed to play for them this season, after refusing to report to Long Island last season. Nabokov is still a solid goalie, even at the age of 35, and the Isles have some good young talent around him in John Tavares, who has the capability of scoring 50 goals in a season, as well as Nino Niederreiter, who also has the same capability. The other team would be the Toronto Maple Leafs, who, under the direction of genius general manager Brian Burke have been rebuilding and look to make the playoffs for the first time since 2004. I think this team has the talent to do it, and they should be able to.
Playoff teams:
1. Washington Capitals*
2. Pittsburgh Penguins*
3. Buffalo Sabres*
4. New York Rangers*
5. Philadelphia Flyers*
6. Boston Bruins
7. Toronto Maple Leafs
8. New York Islanders
Stanley Cup Final: Pittsburgh vs. Detroit Red Wings
Western Conference
Central Division
This division is on of the best in hockey talent wise. All 5 of these teams could win the division cause thats how good these teams are. In reality tho only 3 possibly 4 have a chance of making it since they play each other so many times in the year. Detroit and Chicago are def the front runners. I say watch out for St. Louis though. They are going to surprise people this year. Nashville and Columbus will bring up the rear of the division and battle for one of the last playoff spots.
Northwest Division
Vancouver is the top of the division I wouldn't expect anything less unless bearing injuries. Minnesota, Colorado, and Edmonton are the middle of the pack in this division and can go in any order with all the youth they have on their teams.
Calgary has a lot of the same players as last year and need to shake things up to make their team better and didn't do that.
Pacific Division
L.A. is the front runner with all the great moves this off-season not even close with any other team. San Jose and Anaheim are your middle of the pack and San Jose will have something to prove this year cause they want to get over the hump of the western conference finals this year. Phoenix and Dallas still have some work to do I think and their are some players who want out of Phoenix which is not a good thing for chemistry for the team.
Playoff Rankings
1. L.A. Kings*
2 Vancouver Canucks*
3 Detroit Red Wings*
4. Chicago Blackhawks
5.San Jose Sharks
6. Colorado Avalanche
7. St. Louis Blues
8. Anaheim Ducks
-------------------------------------
9. Nashville Predators
10 Minnesota Wild
11. Edmonton Oilers
12. Dallas Stars
13. Columbus Blue Jackets
14.Phoenix Coyotes
15. Calgary Flames
Stanley Cup Final: Detroit vs. Buffalo Sabres
Hope you all enjoyed and have fun watching another exciting season of hockey!
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
World Series Preview!
Major League Baseball has once again had a great season, and now it comes down to a rather unlikely match up in the World Series, the Texas Rangers versus the St. Louis Cardinals. The reason it is somewhat unlikely is because the Rangers have never made back to back World Series in franchise history, which goes back 50 years. Heck, the Rangers never even made a World Series until last season where they lost to the San Francisco Giants in five games. But, the Rangers were predicted by many not to make the World Series again, including this prognosticator. Texas had also lost out on keeping their ace, Cliff Lee for another six or so seasons, as he went to Philadelphia. Texas had also lost another cog in their rotation in Tommy Hunter, who had started game four in last year's World Series. Texas also lost their starting catcher in Bengie Molina and some other pieces which helped them in last year's playoffs. Texas had a relatively "easy" road to the World Series, as no route to the World Series is easy. But, they washed away the Rays, perhaps the second hottest team in baseball behind the Cardinals out in the divisional series. They then beat the Tigers and Justin Verlander in six games in the League Championship Series to get here.
St. Louis' road to the World Series wasn't an easy one either, as most everyone knows by now, they came back from a 10.5 game deficit to catch the Braves in the Wild Card standings, then beat the best team in baseball in the divisional series, then they beat their divisional rival and Central division champion Brewers in the LCS. St. Louis has been a consistent team under arguably the best manager ever in Tony LaRussa, who has guided the Cardinals to their third World Series under his watchful eye. Now, they're trying to help him capture the Cardinals 11th World Series title and second under :LaRussa.
Finally, allow me to examine both teams and give an edge to either side and pick a winner.
Relief pitching: Looking through both teams, both have outstanding bullpens bolstered by trades made at the trade deadline, and both teams definitely utilized them a lot during the LCS, as both teams starting rotations faltered big time there. As an example, no Texas starter went more than six innings in their series against the Tigers, and the Cardinals relievers worked more innings in the LCS than the starters. Keep in mind that in the NLCS, no game went into extra innings either. St. Louis grabbed Mark Rzepczynski and Octavio Dotel from the Blue Jays in exchange for their budding superstar Colby Rasmus. They also picked up veteran left hander Arthur Rhodes, who ironically was released by the Rangers. St. Louis also has a closer who only became their closer in mid-August in Jason Motte. Motte is very unusual, as he is converting to pitcher after being a catcher within the Cardinals system. So, he has a very unusual throwing motion, but when you are effectively erratic as Motte is, and you throw nearly 100 mph, it works out.
Texas meanwhile also has a great bullpen, led by their closer, Neftali Feliz, who can throw 100 mph while mixing in a nasty slider. No wonder why Feliz held the record for rookie saves last year until Craig Kimbrel of the Braves broke it this season. But, the Rangers also have a solid bullpen behind Feliz with Mike Gonzalez, Darren Oliver, Koji Uehara and their secret weapon in Alexi Ogando, who was a starter during the regular season, but in the playoffs has been devastatingly effective with his slider and fastball.
Advantage: Texas, because of Ogando
Starting Pitching
Both teams starting pitching didn't fare too well in the LCS, but they did fare pretty well in the LDS, where both teams starting pitching lasted at least five innings in each game, except for Chris Carpenter who in game two of the division series against Philadelphia only pitched three innings on his first ever start on three days rest. But, overall, I think the Cardinals have a better four man rotation with Carpenter, Jackson, Lohse and Garcia than the Rangers four man of Wilson, Harrison, Lewis and Holland.
Advantage: St. Louis, their depth.
Offense
Texas can knock the ball out of the park anytime with any of their hitters one through nine. Granted, that advantage will be negated a little bit with St. Louis having home field in the Series due to the stupid rule of the winning league from the All-Star game getting it. So, Texas pitchers will have to bat, and the game will be changed a little bit, but all of the Ranger hitters are scary. Granted, the Cardinals lineup isn't too shabby either with the best player in the game, Albert Pujols, flanked by NL comeback player of the year Lance Berkman and always dangerous Matt Holliday in the lineup. St. Louis however doesn't have the depth that the Texas lineup has.
Advantage: Texas, depth is too great.
Defense
Both teams have very solid defenses, as St. Louis will put in defensive replacements if they have a lead late, and will try to protect that lead with defensive replacements at third, second and at least one spot in the outfield. Texas is just all around very solid at every position.
Advantage: Push, too close to call.
Mangers
Ron Washington is finishing his fifth season as Rangers manager and has improved this team every single season since he came on board in 2007. But, as mentioned earlier, he's going up against in most opinions, one of the best managers of all time in Tony LaRussa who knows how to plug in pieces wherever and whenever and they always seem to work.
Advantage: St. Louis, greatness trumps.
X-factor
St. Louis is just hot as all get out, and seem to be a runaway freight train. Texas meanwhile has a lot of experience as well, as they were here last season and want to win the Dallas area's second championship within the year. Remember, the Dallas Mavericks won the NBA title in June. Plus, St. Louis has home field advantage, so I must give the slight advantage to the Cardinals.
Advantage: St. Louis
So, who is my pick to win the 2011 World Series? I think the Cardinals in six games, due to them just being so hot, and having a better bullpen than the Rangers.
Now, I know I said the NHL preview would come over the weekend, but my friend didn't get his portion to me til late tonight, so it'll be delivered later Wednesday.
St. Louis' road to the World Series wasn't an easy one either, as most everyone knows by now, they came back from a 10.5 game deficit to catch the Braves in the Wild Card standings, then beat the best team in baseball in the divisional series, then they beat their divisional rival and Central division champion Brewers in the LCS. St. Louis has been a consistent team under arguably the best manager ever in Tony LaRussa, who has guided the Cardinals to their third World Series under his watchful eye. Now, they're trying to help him capture the Cardinals 11th World Series title and second under :LaRussa.
Finally, allow me to examine both teams and give an edge to either side and pick a winner.
Relief pitching: Looking through both teams, both have outstanding bullpens bolstered by trades made at the trade deadline, and both teams definitely utilized them a lot during the LCS, as both teams starting rotations faltered big time there. As an example, no Texas starter went more than six innings in their series against the Tigers, and the Cardinals relievers worked more innings in the LCS than the starters. Keep in mind that in the NLCS, no game went into extra innings either. St. Louis grabbed Mark Rzepczynski and Octavio Dotel from the Blue Jays in exchange for their budding superstar Colby Rasmus. They also picked up veteran left hander Arthur Rhodes, who ironically was released by the Rangers. St. Louis also has a closer who only became their closer in mid-August in Jason Motte. Motte is very unusual, as he is converting to pitcher after being a catcher within the Cardinals system. So, he has a very unusual throwing motion, but when you are effectively erratic as Motte is, and you throw nearly 100 mph, it works out.
Texas meanwhile also has a great bullpen, led by their closer, Neftali Feliz, who can throw 100 mph while mixing in a nasty slider. No wonder why Feliz held the record for rookie saves last year until Craig Kimbrel of the Braves broke it this season. But, the Rangers also have a solid bullpen behind Feliz with Mike Gonzalez, Darren Oliver, Koji Uehara and their secret weapon in Alexi Ogando, who was a starter during the regular season, but in the playoffs has been devastatingly effective with his slider and fastball.
Advantage: Texas, because of Ogando
Starting Pitching
Both teams starting pitching didn't fare too well in the LCS, but they did fare pretty well in the LDS, where both teams starting pitching lasted at least five innings in each game, except for Chris Carpenter who in game two of the division series against Philadelphia only pitched three innings on his first ever start on three days rest. But, overall, I think the Cardinals have a better four man rotation with Carpenter, Jackson, Lohse and Garcia than the Rangers four man of Wilson, Harrison, Lewis and Holland.
Advantage: St. Louis, their depth.
Offense
Texas can knock the ball out of the park anytime with any of their hitters one through nine. Granted, that advantage will be negated a little bit with St. Louis having home field in the Series due to the stupid rule of the winning league from the All-Star game getting it. So, Texas pitchers will have to bat, and the game will be changed a little bit, but all of the Ranger hitters are scary. Granted, the Cardinals lineup isn't too shabby either with the best player in the game, Albert Pujols, flanked by NL comeback player of the year Lance Berkman and always dangerous Matt Holliday in the lineup. St. Louis however doesn't have the depth that the Texas lineup has.
Advantage: Texas, depth is too great.
Defense
Both teams have very solid defenses, as St. Louis will put in defensive replacements if they have a lead late, and will try to protect that lead with defensive replacements at third, second and at least one spot in the outfield. Texas is just all around very solid at every position.
Advantage: Push, too close to call.
Mangers
Ron Washington is finishing his fifth season as Rangers manager and has improved this team every single season since he came on board in 2007. But, as mentioned earlier, he's going up against in most opinions, one of the best managers of all time in Tony LaRussa who knows how to plug in pieces wherever and whenever and they always seem to work.
Advantage: St. Louis, greatness trumps.
X-factor
St. Louis is just hot as all get out, and seem to be a runaway freight train. Texas meanwhile has a lot of experience as well, as they were here last season and want to win the Dallas area's second championship within the year. Remember, the Dallas Mavericks won the NBA title in June. Plus, St. Louis has home field advantage, so I must give the slight advantage to the Cardinals.
Advantage: St. Louis
So, who is my pick to win the 2011 World Series? I think the Cardinals in six games, due to them just being so hot, and having a better bullpen than the Rangers.
Now, I know I said the NHL preview would come over the weekend, but my friend didn't get his portion to me til late tonight, so it'll be delivered later Wednesday.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
10 Best Football Games-Week 7
This week has games that nearly nobody thought would be good games, but now, going strictly on records in both the college and professional games, they should be good games. Perhaps the premier game of the week in the NFL is San Francisco at Detroit, which to most is completely shocking. Then, in college, there are four clashes between ranked foes, and all of them are conference games, which is great, to see some rivalry games and also to further separate the national title contenders from the non-contenders. Now, on to the games.
College
# 11 Michigan at #23 Michigan State, noon, ESPN
Michigan State is looking to beat their in-state rivals for the fourth consecutive year, and Michigan is looking to continue its march towards the Big Ten title game in Indianapolis, which is looking very sharp currently. However, Michigan was 5-0 last season and then just crumbled down the stretch, which helped to get Brady Hoke into Ann Arbor. Michigan will rely on its Heisman contender, and do it all quarterback Denard Robinson who averages over 400 yards a game combined rushing and passing.
Michigan State should be able to control Robinson, as they have the past two seasons, holding Robinson to under 300 yards. Although in 2009, Robinson was only in part-time. Michigan State also is very capable of holding their opponents down as far as points are concerned, only holding them to 10.6 points per game during the season. Michigan State also has a pretty good quarterback of its own in Kirk Cousins, who is in a much different mold than Robisnon, as he is more of a pocket passer. Cousins ranks in the top third in all of college football in passing yards as well. This game is also at East Lansing, so give the advantage to Sparty.
Pick: Michigan State 27, Michigan 17
#6 Oklahoma State at #22 Texas, 3:30 p.m., ABC
Oklahoma State was off last week to get ready for the Longhorns who really fell flat on their faces last week in their trouncing by Oklahoma. State should easily be able to match the 55 points that their rivals put up last week, due to their explosive offense, which averages just over 50 points a game. Texas proved last week that they're not ready for the big boys just yet, so even with this game being at home, don't expect the Longhorns to put up all that much of a fight.
Pick: Oklahoma State 58, Texas 24
#18 Arizona State at #9 Oregon, 10:15 p.m., ESPN
Oregon is without their star running back LaMichael James for this game, as he is out with a dislocated elbow, much like the one Rajon Rondo suffered during this past year's NBA playoffs. James has gone off in the past three games, rushing for over 200 yards in each of them. So, to make up for James' loss, the Ducks will now run out De'Anthony Thomas, who is a true freshman and only has about 200 yards rushing on the season. Thomas has had a few problems with ball security, but has learned to rectify those problems during the course of the season.
Arizona State deploys a much different offense than the Ducks, as they are much more of a pro style offense with Brock Osweiler at quarterback, who is probably the second best quarterback in the Pac-12, behind Andrew Luck of course. Osweiler has close to a 2-1 touchdown to interception ratio on the season, and nearly 1300 yards passing. The Sun Devils are a very good team, and their only loss this season came on a road trip to Illinois and a 11 a.m. central start. Well, after this game, Arizona State will have two losses, as this game has Gameday in Eugene along with a rare night game for the Ducks, so this will be an even tougher environment to play in.
Pick: Oregon 38, Arizona State 30
#20 Baylor at #21 Texas A&M, noon, FX
This game has the "Law of Gus" written all over it. Now, for those unfamiliar with that term, it means that nearly every game Gus Johnson, the play-by-play man for FX's coverage of college football has covered in the pros, each game has been close, and Gus Johnson is notorious for some of the most enthusiastic calls you would ever hear. Now, for the game itself. This game could definitely be a shootout, as Robert Griffin III of Baylor continues to dominate the season with both his legs and arm. Griffin has only one interception on the year, and 19 touchdowns. Griffin also has averaged a little bit over 50 yards on the ground per game. Baylor is the only team in the nation in which to have averaged over 300 yards passing and 200 yards rushing per game.
Texas A&M meanwhile is 3-2 and still ranked somehow because they played two top 10 opponents in Oklahoma State and Arkansas in back to back weeks, and lost both due to some epic failure in the second half of each of those games. A&M barely hung on last week against Texas Tech and their potent offense. The Aggies got outscored 27-9 in their loss at home to OSU and then the very next week got outscored 25-3 in their loss at a neutral site to old/new rival Arkansas. The reason for the old/new designation is because both schools were once in the now defunct Southwest Conference and now Texas A&M will be joining Arkansas in the SEC. But, this game has shootout written all over it. And, I'm going with the hopeful Heisman contender in Griffin and the Bears.
Pick: Baylor 58, Texas A&M 55
#19 Virginia Tech at Wake Forest, 6:30 p.m., ESPN3.com
This game has upset written all over it. Wake Forest, while unranked, has won four straight since their heartbreaking overtime loss in Syracuse. Wake is playing some of its best football since they won the ACC back in 2006 right now due to the great coaching of Jim Grobe and his assistants. Wake doesn't really have any "star" power, but they are just a solid team, much like Kansas State, which is also flying under the radar. Wake Forest will look to deploy the same strategy which Clemson deployed in their win over Virginia Tech in Blacksburg. Clemson stopped the Hokie running attack, only allowing 3.3 yards per rush in their win over Tech, and Wake has an even stronger rush defense, only allowing 102 yards per game. Tech had a big passing game last week against a fairly weak Miami team, so I don't expect that to continue this week against a formidable Wake team.
Pick: Wake 24, Tech 16
NFL
San Francisco at Detroit, 1, FOX
This game should be amazing. Both teams are a combined 9-1 after going a combined 1-9 through five weeks last season. That should tell you what kind of turnaround both of these teams are having. San Francisco just completely mauled the Tampa Bay Bucs last week, winning 48-3. Detroit meanwhile continues just to win, winning last week 21-10 in their first home Monday Night Football appearance since 2001. Matthew Stafford is continuing to mature and is not getting killed this year behind an improved offensive line. Detroit also has a pretty good running game in Jahvid Best, who in his second season is getting some more carries and averaging just a shade under 5 yards per rush. Detroit then has one of the best defensive lines in football, which will just wreak havoc upon the opponents offensive line.
San Francisco hasn't been too flashy, just playing solid defense, running the ball well with perennial pro bowler Frank Gore and rookie Kendall Hunter, then giving Alex Smith nice short passes and then letting his receivers do the rest of the work. San Francisco lost one of its better receivers in Josh Morgan due to a torn ACL last week, so that will hurt a bit.
This game will be very close, but since San Francisco is making its third trip out east in the first five weeks of the season, they will be tired and without Morgan, give the edge to Detroit to continue its undefeated season.
Pick: Detroit 27, San Francisco 23
Buffalo at New York Giants, 1, CBS
This game is also a good one, as the Giants want to come back with a vengeance after their embarrassing loss to Seattle last week. New York has some very good pieces in their one-two punch of a running game in Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw, which will deplete a defense's energy throughout the game and then two good young receivers in Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks, and then a pretty good all around defense, but they just haven't been able to put all of that together throughout all five games thus far, they've been up and down.
Buffalo is much like Wake Forest, not many "name" people, they just go out and win. Their latest example was last week against Philadelphia where they forced five turnovers against the Eagles. Buffalo then just runs the ball with Fred Jackson and throw it up to their best receiver in Steve Johnson. Buffalo's defense then just gets the job done.
Pick: Buffalo 28, New York Giants 20
Houston at Baltimore, 4:05, CBS
Baltimore has had one slip up in their season thus far, a somewhat surprising 26-13 at Tennessee after their big win against Pittsburgh the week before. Now, Baltimore is coming off their bye week, so they are very fresh and should be able to do very well against a fairly mediocre Houston team. Houston is coming off an emotional loss to Oakland at home, and now will have to travel to Baltimore to face this rested and great defense. Baltimore should win based on the strength of that defense.
Pick: Baltimore 31, Houston 14
Dallas at New England, 4:15, FOX
Dallas has a big advantage in this game through their defensive coordinator Rob Ryan, who was the defensive coordinator of the Browns last year. Cleveland beat New England last season in Cleveland by just bringing a whole bunch of folks on each play and just confusing Tom Brady and the New England offensive line. New England should learn from last season's mistake and make the necessary changes. New England just continues to roll after their loss against Buffalo in week 3. Although New England doesn't have the best defense now, they should still have enough to disrupt Tony Romo and turn him from "good" Tony to "bad" Tony in the second half, which Romo has done thus far this season.
Pick: New England 38, Dallas 21
New Orleans at Tampa Bay, 4:15, FOX
Tampa Bay is looking to rebound from their awful loss out west last week and try to prove themselves against the undisputed leaders of the NFC South in New Orleans. Tampa Bay will continue to try their method of running the ball with Earnest Graham and LeGarrette Blount and then try and have Josh Freeman lead them on a comeback in the fourth quarter. New Orleans will continue their method of winning. Out-throw you with Drew Brees and all of his different receivers who are great, while sprinkling in a power running game with Mark Ingram. Both teams should have big offensive days, as neither defense is all that strong.
Pick: New Orleans 35, Tampa Bay 34
Enjoy the weekend of football, and expect an NHL preview sometime over the weekend. Yes, I know the season is a week old, but hockey seems to sneak up on you.
College
# 11 Michigan at #23 Michigan State, noon, ESPN
Michigan State is looking to beat their in-state rivals for the fourth consecutive year, and Michigan is looking to continue its march towards the Big Ten title game in Indianapolis, which is looking very sharp currently. However, Michigan was 5-0 last season and then just crumbled down the stretch, which helped to get Brady Hoke into Ann Arbor. Michigan will rely on its Heisman contender, and do it all quarterback Denard Robinson who averages over 400 yards a game combined rushing and passing.
Michigan State should be able to control Robinson, as they have the past two seasons, holding Robinson to under 300 yards. Although in 2009, Robinson was only in part-time. Michigan State also is very capable of holding their opponents down as far as points are concerned, only holding them to 10.6 points per game during the season. Michigan State also has a pretty good quarterback of its own in Kirk Cousins, who is in a much different mold than Robisnon, as he is more of a pocket passer. Cousins ranks in the top third in all of college football in passing yards as well. This game is also at East Lansing, so give the advantage to Sparty.
Pick: Michigan State 27, Michigan 17
#6 Oklahoma State at #22 Texas, 3:30 p.m., ABC
Oklahoma State was off last week to get ready for the Longhorns who really fell flat on their faces last week in their trouncing by Oklahoma. State should easily be able to match the 55 points that their rivals put up last week, due to their explosive offense, which averages just over 50 points a game. Texas proved last week that they're not ready for the big boys just yet, so even with this game being at home, don't expect the Longhorns to put up all that much of a fight.
Pick: Oklahoma State 58, Texas 24
#18 Arizona State at #9 Oregon, 10:15 p.m., ESPN
Oregon is without their star running back LaMichael James for this game, as he is out with a dislocated elbow, much like the one Rajon Rondo suffered during this past year's NBA playoffs. James has gone off in the past three games, rushing for over 200 yards in each of them. So, to make up for James' loss, the Ducks will now run out De'Anthony Thomas, who is a true freshman and only has about 200 yards rushing on the season. Thomas has had a few problems with ball security, but has learned to rectify those problems during the course of the season.
Arizona State deploys a much different offense than the Ducks, as they are much more of a pro style offense with Brock Osweiler at quarterback, who is probably the second best quarterback in the Pac-12, behind Andrew Luck of course. Osweiler has close to a 2-1 touchdown to interception ratio on the season, and nearly 1300 yards passing. The Sun Devils are a very good team, and their only loss this season came on a road trip to Illinois and a 11 a.m. central start. Well, after this game, Arizona State will have two losses, as this game has Gameday in Eugene along with a rare night game for the Ducks, so this will be an even tougher environment to play in.
Pick: Oregon 38, Arizona State 30
#20 Baylor at #21 Texas A&M, noon, FX
This game has the "Law of Gus" written all over it. Now, for those unfamiliar with that term, it means that nearly every game Gus Johnson, the play-by-play man for FX's coverage of college football has covered in the pros, each game has been close, and Gus Johnson is notorious for some of the most enthusiastic calls you would ever hear. Now, for the game itself. This game could definitely be a shootout, as Robert Griffin III of Baylor continues to dominate the season with both his legs and arm. Griffin has only one interception on the year, and 19 touchdowns. Griffin also has averaged a little bit over 50 yards on the ground per game. Baylor is the only team in the nation in which to have averaged over 300 yards passing and 200 yards rushing per game.
Texas A&M meanwhile is 3-2 and still ranked somehow because they played two top 10 opponents in Oklahoma State and Arkansas in back to back weeks, and lost both due to some epic failure in the second half of each of those games. A&M barely hung on last week against Texas Tech and their potent offense. The Aggies got outscored 27-9 in their loss at home to OSU and then the very next week got outscored 25-3 in their loss at a neutral site to old/new rival Arkansas. The reason for the old/new designation is because both schools were once in the now defunct Southwest Conference and now Texas A&M will be joining Arkansas in the SEC. But, this game has shootout written all over it. And, I'm going with the hopeful Heisman contender in Griffin and the Bears.
Pick: Baylor 58, Texas A&M 55
#19 Virginia Tech at Wake Forest, 6:30 p.m., ESPN3.com
This game has upset written all over it. Wake Forest, while unranked, has won four straight since their heartbreaking overtime loss in Syracuse. Wake is playing some of its best football since they won the ACC back in 2006 right now due to the great coaching of Jim Grobe and his assistants. Wake doesn't really have any "star" power, but they are just a solid team, much like Kansas State, which is also flying under the radar. Wake Forest will look to deploy the same strategy which Clemson deployed in their win over Virginia Tech in Blacksburg. Clemson stopped the Hokie running attack, only allowing 3.3 yards per rush in their win over Tech, and Wake has an even stronger rush defense, only allowing 102 yards per game. Tech had a big passing game last week against a fairly weak Miami team, so I don't expect that to continue this week against a formidable Wake team.
Pick: Wake 24, Tech 16
NFL
San Francisco at Detroit, 1, FOX
This game should be amazing. Both teams are a combined 9-1 after going a combined 1-9 through five weeks last season. That should tell you what kind of turnaround both of these teams are having. San Francisco just completely mauled the Tampa Bay Bucs last week, winning 48-3. Detroit meanwhile continues just to win, winning last week 21-10 in their first home Monday Night Football appearance since 2001. Matthew Stafford is continuing to mature and is not getting killed this year behind an improved offensive line. Detroit also has a pretty good running game in Jahvid Best, who in his second season is getting some more carries and averaging just a shade under 5 yards per rush. Detroit then has one of the best defensive lines in football, which will just wreak havoc upon the opponents offensive line.
San Francisco hasn't been too flashy, just playing solid defense, running the ball well with perennial pro bowler Frank Gore and rookie Kendall Hunter, then giving Alex Smith nice short passes and then letting his receivers do the rest of the work. San Francisco lost one of its better receivers in Josh Morgan due to a torn ACL last week, so that will hurt a bit.
This game will be very close, but since San Francisco is making its third trip out east in the first five weeks of the season, they will be tired and without Morgan, give the edge to Detroit to continue its undefeated season.
Pick: Detroit 27, San Francisco 23
Buffalo at New York Giants, 1, CBS
This game is also a good one, as the Giants want to come back with a vengeance after their embarrassing loss to Seattle last week. New York has some very good pieces in their one-two punch of a running game in Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw, which will deplete a defense's energy throughout the game and then two good young receivers in Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks, and then a pretty good all around defense, but they just haven't been able to put all of that together throughout all five games thus far, they've been up and down.
Buffalo is much like Wake Forest, not many "name" people, they just go out and win. Their latest example was last week against Philadelphia where they forced five turnovers against the Eagles. Buffalo then just runs the ball with Fred Jackson and throw it up to their best receiver in Steve Johnson. Buffalo's defense then just gets the job done.
Pick: Buffalo 28, New York Giants 20
Houston at Baltimore, 4:05, CBS
Baltimore has had one slip up in their season thus far, a somewhat surprising 26-13 at Tennessee after their big win against Pittsburgh the week before. Now, Baltimore is coming off their bye week, so they are very fresh and should be able to do very well against a fairly mediocre Houston team. Houston is coming off an emotional loss to Oakland at home, and now will have to travel to Baltimore to face this rested and great defense. Baltimore should win based on the strength of that defense.
Pick: Baltimore 31, Houston 14
Dallas at New England, 4:15, FOX
Dallas has a big advantage in this game through their defensive coordinator Rob Ryan, who was the defensive coordinator of the Browns last year. Cleveland beat New England last season in Cleveland by just bringing a whole bunch of folks on each play and just confusing Tom Brady and the New England offensive line. New England should learn from last season's mistake and make the necessary changes. New England just continues to roll after their loss against Buffalo in week 3. Although New England doesn't have the best defense now, they should still have enough to disrupt Tony Romo and turn him from "good" Tony to "bad" Tony in the second half, which Romo has done thus far this season.
Pick: New England 38, Dallas 21
New Orleans at Tampa Bay, 4:15, FOX
Tampa Bay is looking to rebound from their awful loss out west last week and try to prove themselves against the undisputed leaders of the NFC South in New Orleans. Tampa Bay will continue to try their method of running the ball with Earnest Graham and LeGarrette Blount and then try and have Josh Freeman lead them on a comeback in the fourth quarter. New Orleans will continue their method of winning. Out-throw you with Drew Brees and all of his different receivers who are great, while sprinkling in a power running game with Mark Ingram. Both teams should have big offensive days, as neither defense is all that strong.
Pick: New Orleans 35, Tampa Bay 34
Enjoy the weekend of football, and expect an NHL preview sometime over the weekend. Yes, I know the season is a week old, but hockey seems to sneak up on you.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
MLB LCS Preview!
The League Division Series produced some great games, and for the first time ever, it had 19 out of a possible 20 games played, with the only series not going the distance being the Tampa Bay/Texas series. Now that the hometown Phillies are out of it, and the fact that the biggest three name teams in baseball are out of it now, expect for lower ratings. However, if these series are exciting as the Division Series, then there will still be folks talking about this great game. Now, on to the previews!
ALCS
Detroit vs. Texas, Game 1 Saturday, 8:05. Game 2, Sunday 7:45, Game 3, Tuesday 8:05, Games 4&5 Wednesday and Thursday at 4:19, Game 6 Saturday 8:05, Game 7 Sunday October 16 8:05.
Games 1,2,6,7 in Texas, Games 3,4,5 in Detroit. All games on FOX
This series is looking very good on paper, as both teams have good starting pitching, very good bullpens, and pretty good offenses. Both teams also have fairly good defenses. Both teams have done very well in the second half of the season. Detroit has done amazingly well in the second half of the season, pulling away from the pack in the Central division starting July 10, when they went 46-24 down the stretch when nobody else could catch them. Texas pulled away from the Angels starting August 27, when they had their slimmest lead of two, to go an amazing 31-7 in late August/early September. So, both teams are coming in incredibly hot, and the Rangers have a few days extra rest due to them eliminating the Rays on Tuesday and the Tigers only clinching on Thursday.
The key to the series will be which team gets more breaks. Detroit has a slightly better four man rotation than the Rangers do. However, I think the Rangers starting pitching is more consistent than the Tigers. As Detroit has a very good one two punch in Justin Verlander and Doug Fister, with the rest of the rotation dipping off slightly more with Rick Porcello and Max Scherzer. The Rangers have better overall depth with C.J. Wilson, Matt Harrison, Derek Holland and Colby Lewis. Plus, the Rangers overall lineup I believe is better than Detroit, as they have power 1-9, and some speed sprinkled in as well. Detroit meanwhile only really has the middle of the order to really concern the Rangers. So, I think the Rangers go back-to-back with American League pennants for the first time in franchise history.
Pick: Texas 4, Detroit 2, with Detroit's two victories coming from the arm of Justin Verlander.
NLCS
Milwaukee vs. St. Louis. Series schedule: Games 1 Sunday, 4:05, Game 2 Monday 8:05, Games 3,4,5 Wednesday, Thursday, Friday all at 8:05, Game 6 Sunday 4:05, Game 7 Monday October 17 8:05. If ALCS goes six or less, Game 6 will move to 8:05. Games 1,2,6,7 in Milwaukee. Games 3,4,5 in St. Louis. All games will air on TBS.
This is a classic division rivalry that has bad blood throughout the season. An example is from a game in August when the Brewers threw behind Albert Pujols and the Cardinals answered by hitting Ryan Braun. So, simply, these two teams despise each other on the field. Do not be surprised if you see both teams clear their benches one of these games. Both teams are coming off very hard fought victories in their respective LDS. Both teams are incredibly hot, although the Cardinals more so, as they came back from a 10.5 game deficit to catch the Atlanta Braves and win the Wild Card on the last day of the season. Milwaukee has the best home record in all of baseball this season at 60-24 including the postseason. So, I think this series will go the distance, as it's a divisional rivalry, with the Cardinals with their never say die attitude coming away with at least one victory in Milwaukee.
Pick: St. Louis 4, Milwaukee 3
ALCS
Detroit vs. Texas, Game 1 Saturday, 8:05. Game 2, Sunday 7:45, Game 3, Tuesday 8:05, Games 4&5 Wednesday and Thursday at 4:19, Game 6 Saturday 8:05, Game 7 Sunday October 16 8:05.
Games 1,2,6,7 in Texas, Games 3,4,5 in Detroit. All games on FOX
This series is looking very good on paper, as both teams have good starting pitching, very good bullpens, and pretty good offenses. Both teams also have fairly good defenses. Both teams have done very well in the second half of the season. Detroit has done amazingly well in the second half of the season, pulling away from the pack in the Central division starting July 10, when they went 46-24 down the stretch when nobody else could catch them. Texas pulled away from the Angels starting August 27, when they had their slimmest lead of two, to go an amazing 31-7 in late August/early September. So, both teams are coming in incredibly hot, and the Rangers have a few days extra rest due to them eliminating the Rays on Tuesday and the Tigers only clinching on Thursday.
The key to the series will be which team gets more breaks. Detroit has a slightly better four man rotation than the Rangers do. However, I think the Rangers starting pitching is more consistent than the Tigers. As Detroit has a very good one two punch in Justin Verlander and Doug Fister, with the rest of the rotation dipping off slightly more with Rick Porcello and Max Scherzer. The Rangers have better overall depth with C.J. Wilson, Matt Harrison, Derek Holland and Colby Lewis. Plus, the Rangers overall lineup I believe is better than Detroit, as they have power 1-9, and some speed sprinkled in as well. Detroit meanwhile only really has the middle of the order to really concern the Rangers. So, I think the Rangers go back-to-back with American League pennants for the first time in franchise history.
Pick: Texas 4, Detroit 2, with Detroit's two victories coming from the arm of Justin Verlander.
NLCS
Milwaukee vs. St. Louis. Series schedule: Games 1 Sunday, 4:05, Game 2 Monday 8:05, Games 3,4,5 Wednesday, Thursday, Friday all at 8:05, Game 6 Sunday 4:05, Game 7 Monday October 17 8:05. If ALCS goes six or less, Game 6 will move to 8:05. Games 1,2,6,7 in Milwaukee. Games 3,4,5 in St. Louis. All games will air on TBS.
This is a classic division rivalry that has bad blood throughout the season. An example is from a game in August when the Brewers threw behind Albert Pujols and the Cardinals answered by hitting Ryan Braun. So, simply, these two teams despise each other on the field. Do not be surprised if you see both teams clear their benches one of these games. Both teams are coming off very hard fought victories in their respective LDS. Both teams are incredibly hot, although the Cardinals more so, as they came back from a 10.5 game deficit to catch the Atlanta Braves and win the Wild Card on the last day of the season. Milwaukee has the best home record in all of baseball this season at 60-24 including the postseason. So, I think this series will go the distance, as it's a divisional rivalry, with the Cardinals with their never say die attitude coming away with at least one victory in Milwaukee.
Pick: St. Louis 4, Milwaukee 3
Friday, October 7, 2011
10 Best Football Games-Week 6
We are now a quarter way mark of the NFL season, with every team playing four games and you are starting to see which teams are separating themselves from the pack, like the Packers, Lions, Saints, Texans, Patriots, Baltimore, and some others. Plus, every college team has played at least four games, but some teams have yet to prove themselves on the road, like three Big Ten teams in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois. Plus, there's Kansas State. So, really only the Big Ten teams are at fault, as at least K-State played Baylor at home, a ranked team and upset them. Wisconsin also played the biggest game of the season thus far and beat Nebraska soundly at home. But, enough with the previews, and move on to the picks!
College
#3 Oklahoma vs. #11 Texas, noon, ABC, at Cotton Bowl in Dallas
This is the Red River Rivalry, and it could turn into the Red River shootout as well. Both teams have very potent offenses, especially Texas after they decided to ditch Garrett Gilbert in their game against BYU. As after they replaced Gilbert, the Longhorns have averaged 43 points in their ensuing two games. Texas has done very well exchanging either Case McCoy or David Ash in for one another, and their defense has done a fine job as well, only allowing a little under 15 points per game throughout all four of their contests thus far.
Oklahoma on the other hand has their eyes on the national title or bust. Oklahoma has a whole bunch of veterans, led by Landry Jones and Ryan Broyles on offense, and Tony Jefferson and Blake Gideon. The Sooners have some high hopes, and those hopes will continue, as they beat Texas and exact revenge from 2008, the last time both teams came into this rivalry undefeated. Oklahoma will do it because of their experience.
Pick: Oklahoma 38, Texas 23
#17 Florida at #1 LSU, 3:30, CBS
Florida is coming off a woeful loss at home to Alabama, and that game was in prime time as well. The Gators also lost their starting quarterback John Brantley in that game. Now, Florida must try to get a new quarterback to learn everything in their system in a week, plus travel to "death valley" and face one of the nation's best defenses in LSU. The Bayou Bengals also have a defensive Heisman candidate like they did last year in Tyrann Mathieu, who just goes straight after the football every time to try and force a turnover. So, my guess is that Florida is probably going to have a very tough time against this Tiger defense.
Pick: LSU 41, Florida 17
#5 Boise State at Fresno State, 9 Friday, ESPN
Fresno State and Boise State have been longtime rivals within the WAC, but now with Boise moving on to supposedly greener pastures in the Mountain West, this has become a non-conference game. Fresno State always seems to play its best against premier competition like Boise, but can the "bus" of Boise State be stopped? Kellen Moore seems to be doing better this season even without his two big targets Titus Young and Austin Pettis. So, it'll be a good game for the first half, but the Broncos should pull away in the second half.
Pick: Boise 31, Fresno St. 16
Iowa at Penn State, 3:30, ABC
If Penn State can stick with Matt McGloin at quarterback throughout an entire game, they may actually have an okay offense. Penn State and their defense is the main reason why they're 4-1 at the moment, with the only loss to a great Alabama team. Iowa is coming into Penn State playing its first conference game this season, and its only loss coming at an improved Iowa State team. Penn State should be able to hold Iowa on defense, and I think they'll score a few more points if McGloin starts.
Pick: Penn State 20, Iowa 17
#15 Auburn at #10 Arkansas, 7, ESPN
Auburn went from unranked last week to number 15 this week due to their win on the road at South Carolina. Auburn played stellar defense last week, forcing four turnovers and riding sophomore running back Michael Dyer to a victory. Auburn slowed down sophomore sensation Marcus Lattimore and only allowed him to rush for 66 yards last week. Plus, they didn't allow Gamecock quarterback to even complete half his passes. However, Auburn hasn't been playing like that throughout the season.
Arkansas on the other hand, is an offensive juggernaut, scoring at least 38 points in each of their victories, with their only loss coming at undefeated Alabama. Tyler Wilson is becoming the next Ryan Mallett at Arkansas, and they don't seem to be stopping.
Pick: Arkansas 44, Auburn 20
NFL
Tennessee at Pittsburgh, 1, CBS
Tennessee has also been a good surprise this season, going 3-1 on the young season, relying on their defense and an experienced quarterback to lead the way. Even though Chris Johnson hasn't been his usual self this year, Matthew Hasselbeck, released by the Seahawks for some inexplicable reason, has been wonderful. Hasselbeck already has over 1100 yards and eight touchdowns this season.
Pittsburgh, on the other hand has been like Philly and a bad surprise, going 2-2, and being one of the worst teams in the league in turnover differential, at -10 thus far. Pittsburgh also has yet to intercept a pass, which is surprising, considering they still have ball-hawking safety Troy Polamalu. Pittsburgh also is going to be without their star linebacker James Harrison in this game, as he is out with a broken orbital bone. Plus, they won't have their best two running backs in Rashard Mendenhall or Mewelde Moore due to injuries. So, for those injuries, I'm picking the Titans in a low scoring affair.
Pick: Tennessee 17, Pittsburgh 13
Philadelphia at Buffalo, 1, Fox
Both teams are off to very surprising starts, with the Eagles losing three of their first four games and the Bills winning three of their first four, including two 18 plus point comebacks against the Raiders and Patriots. This should be a very high scoring game, as Buffalo can't seem to gain a pass rush whatsoever, only having four sacks on the season thus far, which should allow LeSean McCoy and Michael Vick to be able to run all day. Vick could also pass to any of his weapons should the Bills decide to blitz.
Buffalo meanwhile has a good running ack in Fred Jackson they can use to exploit Philly's awful rush defense, which ranks 30th in the NFL. The Eagles also lost one of their two great defensive ends in Trent Cole for a few weeks, so Ryan Fitzpatrick could have some more time to pass to his decent wide receivers in Stevie Johnson and Scott Chandler. The Eagles should be able to win this game, just so long as they don't blow leads like they have in each of the past three games.
Pick: Eagles 38, Bills 31
Tampa Bay at San Francisco, 4, Fox
Tampa has been playing just as well as it did last season when it went 10-6 and narrowly missing out on the playoffs. Tampa has come back for victories in half of their games thus far for victories. Tampa has a very cool, calm, and collected quarterback in Josh Freeman to lead those comebacks. Tampa also has a pretty good young running back in LeGarrette Blount. San Francisco meanwhile has been breaking through this season, after a few years of saying "this will be the year." They've been doing it with a stellar defense led by leading tackler Patrick Willis and a running game led by pro bowler Frank Gore and rookie Kendall Hunter. San Francisco also is having Alex Smith focus on his strengths and not exploit his weaknesses.
Pick: San Francisco 27, Tampa 21
New York Jets at New England, 4:15, CBS
The Jets exploited New England in last year's divisional playoff, winning 28-21, and picking off Tom Brady for the first time since week six of last season. However, New England beat New York 45-3 last December. So, this is definitely a rivalry game, both teams don't like each other at all, and this is going to be a very tough game. Even though New York has lost two straight, it's a rivalry game, so throw everything out the window. Just expect hard hitting and a lot of running by New York, and a lot of passing by New England.
Pick: New York 26, New England 24
Green Bay at Atlanta, 8:20, NBC
This is also a rematch of a divisional playoff game last season, where Green Bay absolutely demolished Atlanta 48-21. Green Bay has been on the same kind of roll at the beginning of this season as it has last season, so I'm expecting nothing different now. Green Bay just is clicking on all cylinders.Atlanta hasn't been the same team this season, only going 2-2, and only barely winning last week against a horrible Seattle team.
Pick: Green Bay 32, Atlanta 20
College
#3 Oklahoma vs. #11 Texas, noon, ABC, at Cotton Bowl in Dallas
This is the Red River Rivalry, and it could turn into the Red River shootout as well. Both teams have very potent offenses, especially Texas after they decided to ditch Garrett Gilbert in their game against BYU. As after they replaced Gilbert, the Longhorns have averaged 43 points in their ensuing two games. Texas has done very well exchanging either Case McCoy or David Ash in for one another, and their defense has done a fine job as well, only allowing a little under 15 points per game throughout all four of their contests thus far.
Oklahoma on the other hand has their eyes on the national title or bust. Oklahoma has a whole bunch of veterans, led by Landry Jones and Ryan Broyles on offense, and Tony Jefferson and Blake Gideon. The Sooners have some high hopes, and those hopes will continue, as they beat Texas and exact revenge from 2008, the last time both teams came into this rivalry undefeated. Oklahoma will do it because of their experience.
Pick: Oklahoma 38, Texas 23
#17 Florida at #1 LSU, 3:30, CBS
Florida is coming off a woeful loss at home to Alabama, and that game was in prime time as well. The Gators also lost their starting quarterback John Brantley in that game. Now, Florida must try to get a new quarterback to learn everything in their system in a week, plus travel to "death valley" and face one of the nation's best defenses in LSU. The Bayou Bengals also have a defensive Heisman candidate like they did last year in Tyrann Mathieu, who just goes straight after the football every time to try and force a turnover. So, my guess is that Florida is probably going to have a very tough time against this Tiger defense.
Pick: LSU 41, Florida 17
#5 Boise State at Fresno State, 9 Friday, ESPN
Fresno State and Boise State have been longtime rivals within the WAC, but now with Boise moving on to supposedly greener pastures in the Mountain West, this has become a non-conference game. Fresno State always seems to play its best against premier competition like Boise, but can the "bus" of Boise State be stopped? Kellen Moore seems to be doing better this season even without his two big targets Titus Young and Austin Pettis. So, it'll be a good game for the first half, but the Broncos should pull away in the second half.
Pick: Boise 31, Fresno St. 16
Iowa at Penn State, 3:30, ABC
If Penn State can stick with Matt McGloin at quarterback throughout an entire game, they may actually have an okay offense. Penn State and their defense is the main reason why they're 4-1 at the moment, with the only loss to a great Alabama team. Iowa is coming into Penn State playing its first conference game this season, and its only loss coming at an improved Iowa State team. Penn State should be able to hold Iowa on defense, and I think they'll score a few more points if McGloin starts.
Pick: Penn State 20, Iowa 17
#15 Auburn at #10 Arkansas, 7, ESPN
Auburn went from unranked last week to number 15 this week due to their win on the road at South Carolina. Auburn played stellar defense last week, forcing four turnovers and riding sophomore running back Michael Dyer to a victory. Auburn slowed down sophomore sensation Marcus Lattimore and only allowed him to rush for 66 yards last week. Plus, they didn't allow Gamecock quarterback to even complete half his passes. However, Auburn hasn't been playing like that throughout the season.
Arkansas on the other hand, is an offensive juggernaut, scoring at least 38 points in each of their victories, with their only loss coming at undefeated Alabama. Tyler Wilson is becoming the next Ryan Mallett at Arkansas, and they don't seem to be stopping.
Pick: Arkansas 44, Auburn 20
NFL
Tennessee at Pittsburgh, 1, CBS
Tennessee has also been a good surprise this season, going 3-1 on the young season, relying on their defense and an experienced quarterback to lead the way. Even though Chris Johnson hasn't been his usual self this year, Matthew Hasselbeck, released by the Seahawks for some inexplicable reason, has been wonderful. Hasselbeck already has over 1100 yards and eight touchdowns this season.
Pittsburgh, on the other hand has been like Philly and a bad surprise, going 2-2, and being one of the worst teams in the league in turnover differential, at -10 thus far. Pittsburgh also has yet to intercept a pass, which is surprising, considering they still have ball-hawking safety Troy Polamalu. Pittsburgh also is going to be without their star linebacker James Harrison in this game, as he is out with a broken orbital bone. Plus, they won't have their best two running backs in Rashard Mendenhall or Mewelde Moore due to injuries. So, for those injuries, I'm picking the Titans in a low scoring affair.
Pick: Tennessee 17, Pittsburgh 13
Philadelphia at Buffalo, 1, Fox
Both teams are off to very surprising starts, with the Eagles losing three of their first four games and the Bills winning three of their first four, including two 18 plus point comebacks against the Raiders and Patriots. This should be a very high scoring game, as Buffalo can't seem to gain a pass rush whatsoever, only having four sacks on the season thus far, which should allow LeSean McCoy and Michael Vick to be able to run all day. Vick could also pass to any of his weapons should the Bills decide to blitz.
Buffalo meanwhile has a good running ack in Fred Jackson they can use to exploit Philly's awful rush defense, which ranks 30th in the NFL. The Eagles also lost one of their two great defensive ends in Trent Cole for a few weeks, so Ryan Fitzpatrick could have some more time to pass to his decent wide receivers in Stevie Johnson and Scott Chandler. The Eagles should be able to win this game, just so long as they don't blow leads like they have in each of the past three games.
Pick: Eagles 38, Bills 31
Tampa Bay at San Francisco, 4, Fox
Tampa has been playing just as well as it did last season when it went 10-6 and narrowly missing out on the playoffs. Tampa has come back for victories in half of their games thus far for victories. Tampa has a very cool, calm, and collected quarterback in Josh Freeman to lead those comebacks. Tampa also has a pretty good young running back in LeGarrette Blount. San Francisco meanwhile has been breaking through this season, after a few years of saying "this will be the year." They've been doing it with a stellar defense led by leading tackler Patrick Willis and a running game led by pro bowler Frank Gore and rookie Kendall Hunter. San Francisco also is having Alex Smith focus on his strengths and not exploit his weaknesses.
Pick: San Francisco 27, Tampa 21
New York Jets at New England, 4:15, CBS
The Jets exploited New England in last year's divisional playoff, winning 28-21, and picking off Tom Brady for the first time since week six of last season. However, New England beat New York 45-3 last December. So, this is definitely a rivalry game, both teams don't like each other at all, and this is going to be a very tough game. Even though New York has lost two straight, it's a rivalry game, so throw everything out the window. Just expect hard hitting and a lot of running by New York, and a lot of passing by New England.
Pick: New York 26, New England 24
Green Bay at Atlanta, 8:20, NBC
This is also a rematch of a divisional playoff game last season, where Green Bay absolutely demolished Atlanta 48-21. Green Bay has been on the same kind of roll at the beginning of this season as it has last season, so I'm expecting nothing different now. Green Bay just is clicking on all cylinders.Atlanta hasn't been the same team this season, only going 2-2, and only barely winning last week against a horrible Seattle team.
Pick: Green Bay 32, Atlanta 20
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