Hello again, now time for the best few weeks of the year to begin, as bowl weeks are upon us. As my friend Jason over at http://thefroshfifteen.blogspot.com/ and I are about to battle it over nothing but picking the games. But, the bowls are pretty meaningless, as they're just used as filler for ESPN mainly, and for more of the sport we all love, college football. Like thefrosh fifteen I will post my prediction along with my confidence level in each game for ESPN Bowl Mania. Please go to the above website for all rules and everything for the Bowl Mania game.
New Mexico Bowl: Fresno State vs. Wyoming
Fresno State always gives anyone trouble, as they always will fight hard in each and every game they play. A good example is against Wisconsin this season, when Fresno St traveled to Wisconsin and fought hard, only to fall in double OT. Wyoming has gained 2 games from where they were last season, whioch was 4-8. They also played Texas tough in the first half of their game this season. Otherwise, got nothing to say about Wyoming other than their unis are some of the ugliest you'll ever see.
Prediction: Fresno State 35, Wyoming 10 (Confidence Level: 33)
St. Petersburg Bowl Presented by Beef 'O' Brady's: UCF vs. Rutgers
As you will notice throughout the bowl season, a good chunk of these bowls will essentially be home games, as this one is for UCF. At least they'll get some nice swag for traveling an hour to their game. UCF also had a very nice bounceback year from finishing 4-8, and beat Houston when they were on a roll. Then, Rutgers started off 7-1, with the lone defeat to Cincinnatti, then stumbled down the stretch, granted those losses were to teams like WVU, but still.
Prediction: UCF 24, Rutgers 20 (Confidence Level: 12)
R & L Carriers New Orleans Bowl: Southern Miss vs. MTSU
Tune into this game rather than the NFL game for your SNF fix, as this game will probably turn out to be the better of the two games. I'll give you a few reasons for that. First, the NFL game is just as meaningless as this one. Secondly, this is college, so they're trying harder and playing for the fun of it. Thirdly, to watch two teams you've never seen have a shootout, as both teams average over 30 points per game. Finally, it's Brett Favre's alum, and he's playing on SNF.
Prediction: Southern Miss 41, MTSU 38 (Confidence Level: 14)
Maaco Bowl Las Vegas: Oregon State vs. BYU
This is one of the many interesting bowl games outside of the BCS. Two ranked teams who just missed out on the BCS. Oregon State barely missed out on the Rose Bowl by losing in the Civil War. Then, BYU barely missed out by losing to TCU and getting spanked by Florida State. BYU also has Max Hall, one of the best quarterbacks not in an AQ conference. Then, Oregon State has two dynamic brothers in Quizz and James Rodgers, who should put on a show here as well.
Prediction: BYU 30, Oregon State 24 (Confidence Level: 9)
San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl: Utah vs. Cal
Without the dynamic Jahvid Best running the ball, Cal will be in trouble against Utah's stout defense, who lsat season held Bama to 17 points in the Sugar Bowl. Both teams come in off of losses in their final games. Cal to Washington, and the Utes to BYU in the holy war. But, Utah is going to lock up their 9th straight Bowl win.
Prediction: Utah 31, Cal 14 (Confidence Level: 10)
Sheraton Hawaii Bowl: Nevada vs. SMU
This is a match up of a team who loves to run the ball, Nevada versus a team who loves to throw it, SMU. This game is also interesting, as June Jones will return to the islands for the first time since departing Hawaii for SMU since the 2007 season. Nevada will win this game because they've just played better throughout the season than SMU and they've got more bowl experience. But, I'm happy to see SMU back in the postseason for the first time since they got hit with NCAA's version of the "death penalty".
Prediction: Nevada 35, SMU 10 (Confidence Level: 32)
Little Caesars Pizza Bowl: Ohio vs. Marshall
To tell how excited Marshall is to be in this bowl game, their coach resigned. Marshall has a proud football tradition, but right now they're trying to just get back above .500 since the 2004 season. Ohio on the other hand has been on the up and up ever since former Nebraska coach Frank Solich arrived. Granted, they haven't won a MAC title since his arrival, but they're still much better than Marshall.
Prediction: Ohio 42, Marshall 7 (Confidence Level: 31)
Meineke Car Care Bowl: Pitt vs. UNC
This is another one of those de facto home games, as UNC just travels about a half hour to play Pitt in this intriguin match up. Pitt has lost their past two games by a combined total of 4 points. But, they also have dynamic running back Dion Lewis and underrated QB Bill Stull at the helm. Put that against a somewhat underwhelming UNC team who was looking for their first ACC championship since 1980. UNC also has an excellent defense, ranking in the top 20 in rushing, passing and total defense. But, I think the home crowd will be just enough to go past Pitt.
Prediction: UNC 24, Pitt 23 (Confidence Level: 13)
Emerald Bowl: USC vs. BC
This has been a pathetic year for Pete Carroll and USC for their standards, losing 4 games for the first time since he arrived in SoCal. But, in another one of those de facto home games, I'm Picking the Trojans for several reasons, they have better talent, they play in a better conference, and BC has to travel west for the game.
Prediction: USC 31, BC 20 (Confidence Level: 30)
Gaylord Hotels Music City Bowl: Kentucky vs. Clemson
This is one of those games wher you don't know which way to turn, as UK plays in the SEC, so theoretically they should beat up on everyone outside of their own conference, but they really haven't played anyone of significance outside of the SEC in order to get to 7-5. Clemson though features probably the most dynamic all around all purpose running back since Reggie Bush in C.J. Spiller. The Tigers also got to the ACC Championship game which says something in a wild ACC Atlantic.
Prediction: Clemson 28, UK 20 (Confidence Level: 29)
AdvoCare V100 Independence Bowl: Texas A&M vs. Georgia
A very pathetic bowl matchup. Granted the tean manes look intriguing enough, but neither team really has done anything to get to Shreveport. Granted Georgia's defense is good, and it should be interesating to see the matchup between them and Texas A&M's flashy QB, but i'm just going with the strength of the SEC here.
Prediction: Georgia 30, Texas A&M 16 (Confidence Level: 26)
EagleBank Bowl: UCLA vs. Temple
As Pat Forde put it, "even a 5-7 Army team would deserve to go to this bowl over a 6-6 UCLA team." That's paraphrased a little bit, but you get the jist of it, UCLA doesn't deserve a bowl bid, being as bad as they were. Temple, on the other hand won 8 straight games at one point, and is considered one of the biggest surprises on the season, so they deserve it, plus I'm a homer, go with Temple even though they're in a weak conference.
Prediction: Temple 23, UCLA 21 (Confidence Level: 25)
Champs Sports Bowl: Wisconsin vs. Miami
Another de facto home game, this time for Miami. There are a few reasons as to why you pick Miami here. A) THey're essentially at home. B) They're playing a Big 10 team. C) They have bigger stronger and faster players. Finally, Miami is looking to get another boost by getting morale up for next season in preparations for an ACC Championship next season.
Prediction: Miami 34, Wisconsin 22 (Confidence Level: 28)
Roady's Humanitarian Bowl: Idaho vs. Bowling Green State University
We have another de facto home game as Idaho is playing in Boise at their rivals stadium, but nobody will be cheering against them in this game, as Idaho is making their first bowl appearance since 1998, which is an eternity in today's college football landscape. Idaho is another surprise team to be in a bowl, as they were picked to finish near the bottom of the WAC standings, whilst BG was hoping to contend for a MAC title, but instead they end up in a climate similar to their own.
Prediction: Idaho 16, BGSU 13 (Confidence Level: 19)
Pacific Life Holiday Bowl: Arizona vs. Nebraska
One of the other good games outside of the BCS here, as both teams finished near the top in their respective conferences. Nebraska also was a kick away from winning the Big 12 title. Granted, Nebraska has very little offense, while Arizona has loads of offense. It's basically a battle to see if Suh can get pressure on Nick Foles and his emergence as a premier quarterback in the Pac 10. I'm betting on Suh.
Prediction: Nebraska 12, Arizona 10 (Confidence Level: 7)
You'll have to wait for the other half of the bowl picks until after Christmas.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Thursday, December 10, 2009
BCS/Congress
As you may or may not have heard, yesterday Congress passed a bill saying that the BCS could not publicize a game claiming it as a "national championship" game. Granted, this law will probably never go into law, thankfully, even with our sports crazed President. But, I just wanted to point out that our Congress spent time and our money creating a bill for COLLEGE FOOTBALL!!!!!!!!!!!! That should never happen. Granted, our country is pretty sports crazed, but then again, that only figured to be at most half the country. So, the other half, who doesn't give a lick about college football, should be pretty upset at this. Even I, being a big football fan in general am very ticked off at this. I am very mad because Congress should be spending their time dealing with the true issues of our country. Those issues being: no healthcare for many americans, unemployment, post-secondary education, abortion issues, the war, education in general, the economy, North Korea. Hmmmm....does this have anyone thinking they should write to their congressman or woman who is on the House Energy and Subcommerce committee. If you haven't please do, and make your voice heard, as they were elected by us the people, they can easily be taken out of office, by us, the people.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
College Football
Hey everyone, sorry I haven't been here a lot lately, but now a new post, surrounding all of college football. First off, Bobby Bowden's forced retirement. Granted, Florida State University and Bowden haven't done all that well since the 2000 season, going only 74-38, compared to 241-59-4 in his previous 25 at the school. It's been even worse since the heartbreaking 26-23 loss to Joe Paterno and the Nittany Lions in the 2005 Orange Bowl, as FSU has only gone 29-22 since then. There are a lot of factors to go into the decline, but the main reasons are that Florida and Miami have gotten better, as has the entire ACC. But, Bowden has been one of the best head coaches in college football since he started coaching at Howard University in 1959. To be the second winnigest coach of all time says something. That, along with finishing in the top 5 in the Associated Press poll every year from 1987-2000. Also, Bowden took a program in FSU which really was nothing and turned it into a powerhouse. Really, the only success that FSU had before Bowden arrived was from 1960-70 and from 1948-52.
The real thing which is bothersome with Bowden is that he was basically forced into retirement, instead of letting him go out the way he wanted to go out, the way he should have gone. Even though they have been mediocre, respect the man, just as PSU has with Joe Pa. FSU owes it to Bowden to let him go out on his own terms. Hats off to the Gator Bowl though, for making his last game as head coach be against West Virginia, the team he coached prior to FSU. Bowden will be missed nationally and espescially in the FSU community. Bowden won his two national titles, in '92 and in '99. But, only one of them was legit, the '99 one, against Virginia Tech in the BCS. The '92 won was fraudulent, as they lost to Notre Dame, but at the end of the season, it was FSU who was "National champs". But, then again, the entire system back before the BCS was fraudulent, look at -94 too, when Penn St. went undefeated and didn't even get a share of the title. There are other times, just those are the two that resonate with myself. Jimbo Fisher has quite a job as he takes over for a legend. FSU and ND have gone from being national powerhouses where they can recruit anyone in the country to being mediocre and relying upon tradition to get recruits. When that just doesn't cut it anymore to recruits, which is why ND fired Charlie Weis, along with other reasons.
Those other reasons include that this was supposed to be the year that ND went back to a BCS bowl and been back in contention after two very unlike ND years, with reacord of 7-6 and 3-9. This year, the offense definitely did their part, scoring at least 30 points in 7 of their 12 games. But, the defense also let the team down, as the offense led by Jimmy Clausen and Golden Tate who will go into the NFL early, by letting go of late leads in 5 of the 12 games. Granted, the Irish could very well be worse than the 6-6 record, but it also could be much better. Notre Dame needs to put their heads into thinking of the Gator Bowl or higher each year, and not the national title, as there are about 15-20 other teams who are better than the Irish right now. The Irish also need to find a coach with head coaching experience, and who is defensively minded, as defense wins, not offense. Granted, offense is much better to watch, but defense gets the wins. Take someonle like Bob or Mike Stoops, Bo Pelini, Jim Harbaugh, or someone else, not Brian Kelly, who's offense has had to keep up with each opponent this season.
Then, there is Mark Mangino, also forced into resigning, due to accusations that he verbally abused players. This is not what a head coach is supposed to do at a university. A head coach is supposed to be more of a father figure, as they go and keep the kids and teach life, football, and academic lessons at the school, which is why the family helped pick the school of choice. Mangino was right to step down then, as he has had multiple accusations and controversies. But, he will find another job someplace else, as this is America, a nation full of second chances.
A second chance is exactly what Tiger Woods needs right now from the American public then as well, after his accident. We still don't know all of the details of that accident, but we do know that Tiger has had multiple affairs, and he needs his wife Elin, and Jesper Parnevik, the golfer who set up Tiger and Elin, to forgive him, as Christ has forgiven us. Tiger isn't perfect, only Jesus is. As Tiger is also human, even though it'd be hard to believe he wasn't through his golf career and all of his endorsements. Tiger will have ample time to lay low, as he normally doesn't start gearing up for the Masters until late January. Hopefully everything can be worked out with him, and he can start making the uphill climb back into the arms of the American public.
Finally, the BCS. As another year goes by where there are multiple teams who deserve a chance at the national title at the end of the season, there is another call for a national playoff. But, face it, this is the best thing that we have as college football fans. The only complaint I have abou tthis yuear though is that TCU-Boise St. matchup in the Fiesta Bowl. I want to see the non AQ teams face AQ teams to prove they belong in the BCS. Here's what would've been better matchups: Boise St-Iowa or Penn St. and TCU-Florida/GT/Cincy. That would've been a lot more intriguing to me anyway. But, look forward in about 2 weeks as myself and thefroshfifteen.blogspot.com face-off in a friendly Bowl Pick 'em.
The real thing which is bothersome with Bowden is that he was basically forced into retirement, instead of letting him go out the way he wanted to go out, the way he should have gone. Even though they have been mediocre, respect the man, just as PSU has with Joe Pa. FSU owes it to Bowden to let him go out on his own terms. Hats off to the Gator Bowl though, for making his last game as head coach be against West Virginia, the team he coached prior to FSU. Bowden will be missed nationally and espescially in the FSU community. Bowden won his two national titles, in '92 and in '99. But, only one of them was legit, the '99 one, against Virginia Tech in the BCS. The '92 won was fraudulent, as they lost to Notre Dame, but at the end of the season, it was FSU who was "National champs". But, then again, the entire system back before the BCS was fraudulent, look at -94 too, when Penn St. went undefeated and didn't even get a share of the title. There are other times, just those are the two that resonate with myself. Jimbo Fisher has quite a job as he takes over for a legend. FSU and ND have gone from being national powerhouses where they can recruit anyone in the country to being mediocre and relying upon tradition to get recruits. When that just doesn't cut it anymore to recruits, which is why ND fired Charlie Weis, along with other reasons.
Those other reasons include that this was supposed to be the year that ND went back to a BCS bowl and been back in contention after two very unlike ND years, with reacord of 7-6 and 3-9. This year, the offense definitely did their part, scoring at least 30 points in 7 of their 12 games. But, the defense also let the team down, as the offense led by Jimmy Clausen and Golden Tate who will go into the NFL early, by letting go of late leads in 5 of the 12 games. Granted, the Irish could very well be worse than the 6-6 record, but it also could be much better. Notre Dame needs to put their heads into thinking of the Gator Bowl or higher each year, and not the national title, as there are about 15-20 other teams who are better than the Irish right now. The Irish also need to find a coach with head coaching experience, and who is defensively minded, as defense wins, not offense. Granted, offense is much better to watch, but defense gets the wins. Take someonle like Bob or Mike Stoops, Bo Pelini, Jim Harbaugh, or someone else, not Brian Kelly, who's offense has had to keep up with each opponent this season.
Then, there is Mark Mangino, also forced into resigning, due to accusations that he verbally abused players. This is not what a head coach is supposed to do at a university. A head coach is supposed to be more of a father figure, as they go and keep the kids and teach life, football, and academic lessons at the school, which is why the family helped pick the school of choice. Mangino was right to step down then, as he has had multiple accusations and controversies. But, he will find another job someplace else, as this is America, a nation full of second chances.
A second chance is exactly what Tiger Woods needs right now from the American public then as well, after his accident. We still don't know all of the details of that accident, but we do know that Tiger has had multiple affairs, and he needs his wife Elin, and Jesper Parnevik, the golfer who set up Tiger and Elin, to forgive him, as Christ has forgiven us. Tiger isn't perfect, only Jesus is. As Tiger is also human, even though it'd be hard to believe he wasn't through his golf career and all of his endorsements. Tiger will have ample time to lay low, as he normally doesn't start gearing up for the Masters until late January. Hopefully everything can be worked out with him, and he can start making the uphill climb back into the arms of the American public.
Finally, the BCS. As another year goes by where there are multiple teams who deserve a chance at the national title at the end of the season, there is another call for a national playoff. But, face it, this is the best thing that we have as college football fans. The only complaint I have abou tthis yuear though is that TCU-Boise St. matchup in the Fiesta Bowl. I want to see the non AQ teams face AQ teams to prove they belong in the BCS. Here's what would've been better matchups: Boise St-Iowa or Penn St. and TCU-Florida/GT/Cincy. That would've been a lot more intriguing to me anyway. But, look forward in about 2 weeks as myself and thefroshfifteen.blogspot.com face-off in a friendly Bowl Pick 'em.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
AFC North and West Midseason Review
Time now for the final midseason review, this time with the AFC North and West. Along with my revised Super Bowl prediction.
Cincinnatti Bengals: (Prediction:5-11 with great offense, not so great defense, Lewis fired at the end of the year.)
The offense has been great, with Ochocinco again being a good receiver and Carson Palmer is a great leader of the team, he's not putting up spectacular numbers, but is managing the game well. The real surprise here is Cedric Benson is proving to Chicago that they were wrong in letting him go. Then, the defense is also playing really solid.
New Prediction: 11-5, wild card berth.
Baltimore Ravens: (Prediction: 6-10, with Flacco and defense slumping.)
So far, they have done ok, but the defene isn't the dominating force it was last year, when it was ranked in the top 4. Now, it's allowing 19 points a game. Flacco is doing ok in his second year, being in the top 10 in passing. But, they just seem like a shell of them old selves. They still got good bones, but it's not intimidating.
New Prediction: 8-8
Cleveland Browns: (Prediction: 9-7, with Quinn being awesome and Mangini proving he's the Man-genius.)
Ugly, that's the word so far for the Browns season. Mangini decided on his quarterback for the season opener a few days before the season started, and neither quarterback is any good it seems. Then, the defense is awful as well.
New Prediction: 3-13
Pittsburgh Steelers: (Prediction: 11-5, no ill-effect from Super Bowl and Mendenhall will take over starting RB)
So far, they have been a good team and have been turning it on as of late. Ever since Parker went down with an injury early in the year, Mendenhall has proven himself as a great starting back. Then, the defense is spectacular as well as usual. Finally, Ben Roethlisberger is a great quarterback not just managing the game, but making some very good throws as well.
New Prediction: 11-5, repeat as North division champs.
AFC West
Kansas City Chiefs: (Prediction: 3-13, Cassel horrible quarterback.)
has been a total disaster thus far in Todd Haley's first year as head coach. Larry Johnson, one of the very few stars left, was released for saying some gay slurs on twitter, and Cassel hasn't been living up to what he was in New England. The defense is just awful as well.
New Prediction: 3-13
Oakland Raiders: (Prediction: 4-12, Russell will make some waves and be an ok quarterback.)
The Raiders are a mess in every way, with the offense not producing more than double digits, average. Then, the defense is giving up 25 points per game. JaMarcus Russell has proven to be a awful quarterback, and not worth the number 1 pick. Finally, since ESPN did an investigation into his domestic cases, now they've done their own investigation. You'd think that the Raiders would try to figure that stuff out before hiring the guy, now right? But, that's the Raiuders for you.
Denver Broncos: (Prediction: 5-11 with the offesne stinking and Marshall being traded by the deadline.)
The Broncos are one of the biggest surprises in the league, along with the Bengals, and the glass slipper may be falling off after two straight losses, granted to good defenses, but they may have figured out a way to defend Marshall and Orton. But, the defense is still playing solid, but I don't think they have what it takes to make it to the playoffs.
Prediction: 10-6, losing a tiebreaker to the Texans for the playoffs.
San Diego Chargers: (Prediction: 12-4, clinching division by Thanksgiving.)
They got off to their traditionally slow start, but it looks as if they may be turning it around and everything seems to be clicking. After the fourth quarter comeback against the Giants, they deserve to win this division.
Prediction: 11-5, winning the AFC West.
New Super Bowl prediction: hopefully this will finally be the year of the all Pennsylvania Super Bowl, as that's my prediction, Steelers vs. Eagles.
Cincinnatti Bengals: (Prediction:5-11 with great offense, not so great defense, Lewis fired at the end of the year.)
The offense has been great, with Ochocinco again being a good receiver and Carson Palmer is a great leader of the team, he's not putting up spectacular numbers, but is managing the game well. The real surprise here is Cedric Benson is proving to Chicago that they were wrong in letting him go. Then, the defense is also playing really solid.
New Prediction: 11-5, wild card berth.
Baltimore Ravens: (Prediction: 6-10, with Flacco and defense slumping.)
So far, they have done ok, but the defene isn't the dominating force it was last year, when it was ranked in the top 4. Now, it's allowing 19 points a game. Flacco is doing ok in his second year, being in the top 10 in passing. But, they just seem like a shell of them old selves. They still got good bones, but it's not intimidating.
New Prediction: 8-8
Cleveland Browns: (Prediction: 9-7, with Quinn being awesome and Mangini proving he's the Man-genius.)
Ugly, that's the word so far for the Browns season. Mangini decided on his quarterback for the season opener a few days before the season started, and neither quarterback is any good it seems. Then, the defense is awful as well.
New Prediction: 3-13
Pittsburgh Steelers: (Prediction: 11-5, no ill-effect from Super Bowl and Mendenhall will take over starting RB)
So far, they have been a good team and have been turning it on as of late. Ever since Parker went down with an injury early in the year, Mendenhall has proven himself as a great starting back. Then, the defense is spectacular as well as usual. Finally, Ben Roethlisberger is a great quarterback not just managing the game, but making some very good throws as well.
New Prediction: 11-5, repeat as North division champs.
AFC West
Kansas City Chiefs: (Prediction: 3-13, Cassel horrible quarterback.)
has been a total disaster thus far in Todd Haley's first year as head coach. Larry Johnson, one of the very few stars left, was released for saying some gay slurs on twitter, and Cassel hasn't been living up to what he was in New England. The defense is just awful as well.
New Prediction: 3-13
Oakland Raiders: (Prediction: 4-12, Russell will make some waves and be an ok quarterback.)
The Raiders are a mess in every way, with the offense not producing more than double digits, average. Then, the defense is giving up 25 points per game. JaMarcus Russell has proven to be a awful quarterback, and not worth the number 1 pick. Finally, since ESPN did an investigation into his domestic cases, now they've done their own investigation. You'd think that the Raiders would try to figure that stuff out before hiring the guy, now right? But, that's the Raiuders for you.
Denver Broncos: (Prediction: 5-11 with the offesne stinking and Marshall being traded by the deadline.)
The Broncos are one of the biggest surprises in the league, along with the Bengals, and the glass slipper may be falling off after two straight losses, granted to good defenses, but they may have figured out a way to defend Marshall and Orton. But, the defense is still playing solid, but I don't think they have what it takes to make it to the playoffs.
Prediction: 10-6, losing a tiebreaker to the Texans for the playoffs.
San Diego Chargers: (Prediction: 12-4, clinching division by Thanksgiving.)
They got off to their traditionally slow start, but it looks as if they may be turning it around and everything seems to be clicking. After the fourth quarter comeback against the Giants, they deserve to win this division.
Prediction: 11-5, winning the AFC West.
New Super Bowl prediction: hopefully this will finally be the year of the all Pennsylvania Super Bowl, as that's my prediction, Steelers vs. Eagles.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
AFC East and South Midseason Report
Time now to revisit my journey into predicting the future for the AFC, and it doesn't look too pretty, I must say. But, as this is just for fun, and to see how wrong I am, let's look at each AFC East and South team.
Buffalo Bills: (Prediction: 6-10, with T.O. being a T.O., that's a reference to Skip Bayless, and Trent edwards getting killed with sacks.)
T.O. has been a distraction up in Buffalo, and he hasn't lived up to what he has been. Mainly due to the fact that he's been injured, and he's just getting older. At age 36, the Bills shouldn't have expected much, and neither should I after picking him up in my fantasy league. Then Edwards has been injured due to sacks, and the defense hasn't performed too well either, giving up nearly 373 yards/game. Yet, somehow, they've managed to win 3 games thus far. Dick Jauron will most definitely be fired at the end of the year as well.
New Prediction: 5-11
New York Jets: (Prediction: 9-7, Sanchez solid QB, defense one of the better in the AFC.)
Wow, I'm good with this one, the Jets defense is ranked 1st in opposing yards, and 4th in points. Then, Mark Sanchez is still evolving as a quarterback, with more INTs than TDs, but he also has leadership at a very young age. Thankfully the Jets also have a running game with Thomas Jones or else they would be way off the pace of the Patriots right now.
New Prediction: 9-7
Miami Dolphins: (Prediction: 10-6, still flourishing under Tony Sparano and Parcells.)
This one, not so good on. The Dolphins "wildcat" is still performing fairly ok, but they just haven't had the magic that they had last season when they won this division. Have shown flashes of brilliance, but it's an 8-8 team.
New Prediction: 8-8
New England Patriots: (Prediction: 12-4, with Brady returning to '07 form, and Maroney playing all 16 games.)
Brady has played to his expectations, being 2nd in the league in passing, averaging nearly 300 yards/game. It was helped a little bit by the Titans game, where he threw 6 TD passes. then, Maroney has so far played in each game, but hasn't really performed all that well.
New Prediction: 12-4, East winners.
AFC South
Jacksonville Jaguars: (Prediction: 5-11, with Del Rio fired and half of games blacked out.)
Thus far, proven to be correct, except that Jacksonville is 4-4. The attendance so far has been putird, as only 66% of the stadium is filled each week, even with four sections of the upper deck being tarped off. the NFL in Jacksonville, is probably a mistake. Del Rio will probably still be fired if the Jags don't find ways to win a few of their last games.
New Prediction: 7-9
Tennessee Titans: (Prediction: 9-7 with Vince Young starting again.)
Vince Young has started again, and led the team to two straight victories against Jacksonville and San Fran. He has brought a dynamic to the offense thaty wasn't there when Kerry Collins was starting. He'll continue to lead the team to victories, and he'll save coach Fisher's job.
New Prediction: 6-10
Houston Texans: (Prediction: 11-5, go to playoffs and challenge Colts for dominance of the south.)
Houston had a shot at beating Indy on Sunday, but came up just short of taking the game to overtime. They have been a solid team, but they may not make it over that hurdle of 8-8 with Gary Kubiak at the helm. Houston does have a shot to make 10 wins, looking further ahead, but then again, some of those games are toss up games.
New Prediction: 10-6, with the benefit of the doubt and playoffs.
Indianapolis Colts: (Prediction: 12-4, as long as Peyton and Sanders are there.)
Peyton has again played to his expectations, leading his team to an 8-0 mark for the third time in the past five seasons. They'll miss Bob Sanders a little bit against teams like New England, but will again win the division easily and lock up another 1 or 2 seed in the playoffs.
New Prediction: 12-4, win South.
Tomorrow: look forward to the final two divisions of the AFC and see who my midseason picks are for the AFC and NFC champions.
Buffalo Bills: (Prediction: 6-10, with T.O. being a T.O., that's a reference to Skip Bayless, and Trent edwards getting killed with sacks.)
T.O. has been a distraction up in Buffalo, and he hasn't lived up to what he has been. Mainly due to the fact that he's been injured, and he's just getting older. At age 36, the Bills shouldn't have expected much, and neither should I after picking him up in my fantasy league. Then Edwards has been injured due to sacks, and the defense hasn't performed too well either, giving up nearly 373 yards/game. Yet, somehow, they've managed to win 3 games thus far. Dick Jauron will most definitely be fired at the end of the year as well.
New Prediction: 5-11
New York Jets: (Prediction: 9-7, Sanchez solid QB, defense one of the better in the AFC.)
Wow, I'm good with this one, the Jets defense is ranked 1st in opposing yards, and 4th in points. Then, Mark Sanchez is still evolving as a quarterback, with more INTs than TDs, but he also has leadership at a very young age. Thankfully the Jets also have a running game with Thomas Jones or else they would be way off the pace of the Patriots right now.
New Prediction: 9-7
Miami Dolphins: (Prediction: 10-6, still flourishing under Tony Sparano and Parcells.)
This one, not so good on. The Dolphins "wildcat" is still performing fairly ok, but they just haven't had the magic that they had last season when they won this division. Have shown flashes of brilliance, but it's an 8-8 team.
New Prediction: 8-8
New England Patriots: (Prediction: 12-4, with Brady returning to '07 form, and Maroney playing all 16 games.)
Brady has played to his expectations, being 2nd in the league in passing, averaging nearly 300 yards/game. It was helped a little bit by the Titans game, where he threw 6 TD passes. then, Maroney has so far played in each game, but hasn't really performed all that well.
New Prediction: 12-4, East winners.
AFC South
Jacksonville Jaguars: (Prediction: 5-11, with Del Rio fired and half of games blacked out.)
Thus far, proven to be correct, except that Jacksonville is 4-4. The attendance so far has been putird, as only 66% of the stadium is filled each week, even with four sections of the upper deck being tarped off. the NFL in Jacksonville, is probably a mistake. Del Rio will probably still be fired if the Jags don't find ways to win a few of their last games.
New Prediction: 7-9
Tennessee Titans: (Prediction: 9-7 with Vince Young starting again.)
Vince Young has started again, and led the team to two straight victories against Jacksonville and San Fran. He has brought a dynamic to the offense thaty wasn't there when Kerry Collins was starting. He'll continue to lead the team to victories, and he'll save coach Fisher's job.
New Prediction: 6-10
Houston Texans: (Prediction: 11-5, go to playoffs and challenge Colts for dominance of the south.)
Houston had a shot at beating Indy on Sunday, but came up just short of taking the game to overtime. They have been a solid team, but they may not make it over that hurdle of 8-8 with Gary Kubiak at the helm. Houston does have a shot to make 10 wins, looking further ahead, but then again, some of those games are toss up games.
New Prediction: 10-6, with the benefit of the doubt and playoffs.
Indianapolis Colts: (Prediction: 12-4, as long as Peyton and Sanders are there.)
Peyton has again played to his expectations, leading his team to an 8-0 mark for the third time in the past five seasons. They'll miss Bob Sanders a little bit against teams like New England, but will again win the division easily and lock up another 1 or 2 seed in the playoffs.
New Prediction: 12-4, win South.
Tomorrow: look forward to the final two divisions of the AFC and see who my midseason picks are for the AFC and NFC champions.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
NFC North and West Midseason Review
Continuing on with the midseason reviews and ervisions, tonight we're on the NFC North and West. First with the North teams.
Detroit Lions: (Prediction: 5-11, winning Thanksgiving game)
Well, they did win one game thus far, against the lowly Redskins, and with Green Bay losing to the previously winless Bucs, they do have a chance to win the Thanksgiving game. Will not win 5 games, but 3, and Matthew Stafford is going to be a decent quarterback by the end of the year.
New Prediction: 3-13
Minnesota Vikings: (Prediction: 8-8, with Favre's arm falling off by the end of the year.)
Vikings have made me look like an idiot thus far, being 7-1, losing only to the AFC North leaders, the Steelers. Favre hasn't had any arm trouble this season, and even if he has, hasn't said anything. Also, A.P. is being amazing yet again.
New Prediction: 13-3, winning North.
Green Bay Packers: (Prediction: Rodgers will get injured and not live up to hype as a team.)
Pretty correct there except that Rodgers hasn't gotten injured yet, although he is getting sacked a ton, leading the league. The Packers also lost both of their games against the Vikes, which was surprising, as you'd think they'd play up to get back at Favre.
New Prediction: 9-7
Chicago Bears: (Prediction: 10-6 with Cutler and defense being amazing.)
Well, neither have been spectacular, and it really hurt the defense that Urlacher got hurt at the very beginning of the year. Then, Cutler has thrown nearly as many TDs as he has INTs, so he hasn't performed that well.
New Prediction: 8-8
NFC West
St. Louis Rams: (Prediction: 2-14, being as bad as the '08 Lions)
Dead on correct, as the offense has been offensive, being dead last in the league, averaging less than double digits. Then, the defense has been just as horrific, giving up nearly 28 points in the league. Plus, only win came against fellow one win team Detroit.
New Prediction: 2-14
Arizona Cardinals: (Prediction: 6-10, performing lower than '08 because traditionally SB loser stinks next season.)
Proved me wrong, as Warner is doing amazing yet again, the running game is solid with Beanie Wells and Tim Hightower. Warner then is not going to lose his job to Matt Leinart unless he gets injured.
New Prediction: 10-6, winners of the NFC West.
S.F. 49ers: (Prediction: 9-7 with Wild Card berth, and Shaun Hill being a pro bowler.)
They started out well, going 3-1, but have lost their past 4, and I'm starting to doubt them highly as a playoff team. Mike Singletary needs to pull one of those drop his pants speeches again to get his team motivated for the last week of the season. Then, Shaun Hill lost his job to former number 1 pick Alex Smith, who is performing ok.
New Prediction: 7-9
Seattle Seahawks: (Prediction: 10-6, with Hasselbeck playing all 16 games.)
Dead wrong, Hasselbeck got injured early and hence suffered a few losses with Seneca Wallace at quarterback. Then, running game is bad, defense is bad. Overall, bad team.
New Prediction: 6-10
Tomorrow: AFC East and South
Detroit Lions: (Prediction: 5-11, winning Thanksgiving game)
Well, they did win one game thus far, against the lowly Redskins, and with Green Bay losing to the previously winless Bucs, they do have a chance to win the Thanksgiving game. Will not win 5 games, but 3, and Matthew Stafford is going to be a decent quarterback by the end of the year.
New Prediction: 3-13
Minnesota Vikings: (Prediction: 8-8, with Favre's arm falling off by the end of the year.)
Vikings have made me look like an idiot thus far, being 7-1, losing only to the AFC North leaders, the Steelers. Favre hasn't had any arm trouble this season, and even if he has, hasn't said anything. Also, A.P. is being amazing yet again.
New Prediction: 13-3, winning North.
Green Bay Packers: (Prediction: Rodgers will get injured and not live up to hype as a team.)
Pretty correct there except that Rodgers hasn't gotten injured yet, although he is getting sacked a ton, leading the league. The Packers also lost both of their games against the Vikes, which was surprising, as you'd think they'd play up to get back at Favre.
New Prediction: 9-7
Chicago Bears: (Prediction: 10-6 with Cutler and defense being amazing.)
Well, neither have been spectacular, and it really hurt the defense that Urlacher got hurt at the very beginning of the year. Then, Cutler has thrown nearly as many TDs as he has INTs, so he hasn't performed that well.
New Prediction: 8-8
NFC West
St. Louis Rams: (Prediction: 2-14, being as bad as the '08 Lions)
Dead on correct, as the offense has been offensive, being dead last in the league, averaging less than double digits. Then, the defense has been just as horrific, giving up nearly 28 points in the league. Plus, only win came against fellow one win team Detroit.
New Prediction: 2-14
Arizona Cardinals: (Prediction: 6-10, performing lower than '08 because traditionally SB loser stinks next season.)
Proved me wrong, as Warner is doing amazing yet again, the running game is solid with Beanie Wells and Tim Hightower. Warner then is not going to lose his job to Matt Leinart unless he gets injured.
New Prediction: 10-6, winners of the NFC West.
S.F. 49ers: (Prediction: 9-7 with Wild Card berth, and Shaun Hill being a pro bowler.)
They started out well, going 3-1, but have lost their past 4, and I'm starting to doubt them highly as a playoff team. Mike Singletary needs to pull one of those drop his pants speeches again to get his team motivated for the last week of the season. Then, Shaun Hill lost his job to former number 1 pick Alex Smith, who is performing ok.
New Prediction: 7-9
Seattle Seahawks: (Prediction: 10-6, with Hasselbeck playing all 16 games.)
Dead wrong, Hasselbeck got injured early and hence suffered a few losses with Seneca Wallace at quarterback. Then, running game is bad, defense is bad. Overall, bad team.
New Prediction: 6-10
Tomorrow: AFC East and South
Monday, November 9, 2009
NFC East and South Midseason review
The NFL is officially through the halfway point in the season after the MNF game, so it's a good time for me to review my predictions at this point in the season. This is coming out in four two division segments leading up to the first NFL Network broadcast of the year, first with the four NFC divisions, then with the four AFC divisions. Also, to quote my friend over at The Frosh 15, in making NFL predictions, you can review them, in life it takes Jesus. So, here it goes.
NFC East
Washington Redskins: (Prediction: 7-9, with Haynesworth and Campbell not doing too hot)
Well, that's been pretty money, just they've been worse than exprected. Also included, Jim Zorn will probably be fired at the end of the season, awful hire to begin with.
New Prediction: 5-11
Dallas Cowboys: (Prediction: 8-8 with Phillips being gone at end of year and not a prolific offense)
I'll eat my words here, as Dallas hasn't missed a beat without T.O. Also, Miles Austin has developed a repore with Tony Romo the past few weeks. Phillips now may get a new deal, and Romo just needs to get past one playoff game and win it.
New Predction: 10-6, wild card berth.
N.Y. Giants: (Prediction: 10-6 with offense performing below average without Plaxico Burress)
The Giants have been on a slide, losing 4 straight, and haven't really felt the effect of losing Burress. But, they have felt Brandon Jacobs not performing so well, contributing to the losing streak.
New Prediction: 8-8
Philadelphia Eagles: (Prediction: 11-5, Vick won't be game changer, and will do great community service)
Vick hasn't done squat since coming back, aside from proving me right, that he has been a model citizen, and doing community service by speaking with schools and helping the SPCA. They've played to the level of their opponent, which explains their record of 5-3.
New Prediction: 10-6, division winner, by beating Dallas in week 17.
NFC South
Tampa Bay Bucs: (Prediction: 5-11, Free man will start by Thanksgiving, rebuilding year)
Bang on correct, except that Leftwich just wasn't performing well at all. Freeman just started his first game, which coincidentally was the Bucs first win, they'll still finish last though.
New Prediction: 4-12
Carolina Panthers: (Prediction: 8-8, Not be as good as last season)
Correct, as they're now 3-5, and Jake Delhomme hasn't been too good, throwing the most INTs in the league. Running game is still very solid, with the 2 headed monster of Stewart and Williams.
New Prediction: 6-10
Atlanta Falcons: (Prediction: 9-7, Turner and Gonzalez losing a step and not being as good, just missing playoffs)
They've been very consistent, losing only to division leaders NE, NO, and DAL. Plus, those losses weren't by that much. Ryan and Gonzalez have hooked up a lot and Tony Gonzalez is having another very solid yr.
New Prediction: 10-6, wild card berth.
New Orleans Saints: (Prediction: 10-6, with Brees throwing for over 3 miles and D keeping teams in check)
Brees has been very solid, but now the Saints have a running game to go along with Brees and their passing game. Defense has also kept teams in check, with Darren Sharper being such a ball-hawk and leading the league in Interceptions with 7. Maybe best team in the league, with a great offense and solid defense, could win NFC.
New Prediction: 13-3, win NFC South.
Tomorrow: NFC North and West review and new predictions.
NFC East
Washington Redskins: (Prediction: 7-9, with Haynesworth and Campbell not doing too hot)
Well, that's been pretty money, just they've been worse than exprected. Also included, Jim Zorn will probably be fired at the end of the season, awful hire to begin with.
New Prediction: 5-11
Dallas Cowboys: (Prediction: 8-8 with Phillips being gone at end of year and not a prolific offense)
I'll eat my words here, as Dallas hasn't missed a beat without T.O. Also, Miles Austin has developed a repore with Tony Romo the past few weeks. Phillips now may get a new deal, and Romo just needs to get past one playoff game and win it.
New Predction: 10-6, wild card berth.
N.Y. Giants: (Prediction: 10-6 with offense performing below average without Plaxico Burress)
The Giants have been on a slide, losing 4 straight, and haven't really felt the effect of losing Burress. But, they have felt Brandon Jacobs not performing so well, contributing to the losing streak.
New Prediction: 8-8
Philadelphia Eagles: (Prediction: 11-5, Vick won't be game changer, and will do great community service)
Vick hasn't done squat since coming back, aside from proving me right, that he has been a model citizen, and doing community service by speaking with schools and helping the SPCA. They've played to the level of their opponent, which explains their record of 5-3.
New Prediction: 10-6, division winner, by beating Dallas in week 17.
NFC South
Tampa Bay Bucs: (Prediction: 5-11, Free man will start by Thanksgiving, rebuilding year)
Bang on correct, except that Leftwich just wasn't performing well at all. Freeman just started his first game, which coincidentally was the Bucs first win, they'll still finish last though.
New Prediction: 4-12
Carolina Panthers: (Prediction: 8-8, Not be as good as last season)
Correct, as they're now 3-5, and Jake Delhomme hasn't been too good, throwing the most INTs in the league. Running game is still very solid, with the 2 headed monster of Stewart and Williams.
New Prediction: 6-10
Atlanta Falcons: (Prediction: 9-7, Turner and Gonzalez losing a step and not being as good, just missing playoffs)
They've been very consistent, losing only to division leaders NE, NO, and DAL. Plus, those losses weren't by that much. Ryan and Gonzalez have hooked up a lot and Tony Gonzalez is having another very solid yr.
New Prediction: 10-6, wild card berth.
New Orleans Saints: (Prediction: 10-6, with Brees throwing for over 3 miles and D keeping teams in check)
Brees has been very solid, but now the Saints have a running game to go along with Brees and their passing game. Defense has also kept teams in check, with Darren Sharper being such a ball-hawk and leading the league in Interceptions with 7. Maybe best team in the league, with a great offense and solid defense, could win NFC.
New Prediction: 13-3, win NFC South.
Tomorrow: NFC North and West review and new predictions.
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