Yes, you read that right, I'm blogging about a sport I know nearly next to nothing about and a sport which I've never blogged about before. So, please bear with me while I write this.
The folks in and around the Berks County area late June were deeply saddened, by in large, as a whole when they learned of Deputy Sheriff Kyle Pagerly's death by a single gunshot wound to the head. Pagerly was just doing his job as a policeman when regarding the call of going after a suspect wanted on burglary and weapons charges that fateful night along with his K-9 partner Jynx. Since then, Pagerly and his partner Jynx have been honored in countless ways. There have been runs, games dedicated to him, a bike ride, a 5k, and now there will be a boxing promotion to help Pagerly's wife Alecia and their unborn child on Friday night at the Crowne Plaza in Wyomissing. The funds raised will go towards the Kyle Pagerly memorial find.
The tickets for the fight are $35, with ringside being at $50, and a V.I.P. with meet and greets with the boxers is $65, along with ringside tickets. The fight is being promoted by King's Promotions, with the fighters mainly coming from the gym. There will be in total 12 bouts, with 2 being exhibitions. The other ten promotions will be split evenly, five of them being professional matches and the other five being amateur bouts. All of these fights will feature fighters from King's Boxing. Go to kingsboxing.com for more info on them.
One of the exhibitions will be fought by one of Pagerly's former partners, Mike Jackson. Jackson heard about the fight through one of his co-workers, about a month and a half ago. So, Jackson decided to go for it, as he had "never before" gone into the ring. Jackson learned a lot while in the ring, and he thought it was cool to train. Jackson also said while he thought it was cool to do, it's something he will "probably never do again, with 1 child and another on the way." Jackson will be fighting a member of Reading's finest, John Gooch in a three round exhibition fight.
One of the other fights will feature the owner of Dino's Wings and Things, 5306 Allentown Pike, Temple. Dino Iaccarino. So, it made sense that one of the promotions to help this fight was held last night at Dino's where patrons were treated to a buffet which featured four different types of wings, cheese fries, mozzarella sticks and a fried vegetable along with soda and celery. Although there were only four types of wings offered in the buffet, the restaurant offers more than 25 varieties of wings.
Iaccarino will be fighting his last match as a professional, as he'd like to work on developing more wing flavors and his restaurant, which he has owned and operated for the past seven years. Iaccarino is 4-2 in his professional career, none of them being knockouts. He is doing this "just for fun", and since he is one of the sponsors, he has developed one of the videos and will have his business all over his robe and trunks. Iaccarino jokingly said "even if I lose, I may as well be a walking billboard." Which, could be true.
Some of the other fighters featured are just starting out in their careers. Those other fighters include Frank DeAlba and Cesar Gonzalez. DeAlba is a lightweight, and 2-1 in his professional career, neither of his wins coming by knockout. Both DeAlba and his trainer, Marshall Kauffman have a lot of faith that his career will go far. Both think that DeAlba can become a champion, Kauffman said that DeAlba can become a champion in "at most, five years." DeAlba said he is doing this fight "for the love of the sport," and he wants "people to come and show love for the family."
Gonzalez, on the other hand, while he may be on the older end of the spectrum, at 35, still has aspirations to become champion in the featherweight division. He hopes to overcome his age and former criminal background to gain traction. He has confidence in himself, hoping to become champion in "max three years." Gonzalez feels he can get to the top of the mountain by beating up on younger opponents, as they, in his words, "feel entitled, they don't get into the gym and work hard." He goes on to say that "I still wouldn't be boxing if that (championship) wasn't the goal." Gonzalez works a lot at the gym, and is trying to become a better boxer and get away from his past, which include convictions for armed robbery and he has an open case of intent to deliver drugs. But, he does want to do the fight not only because he "loved boxing, but when he heard it was to support Kyle Pagerly, I wanted to support 100%."
Finally, the fights are just to build up these fighters careers and to help the Kyle Pagerly Memorial Fund. Again, here is all of the information:
When: Friday, November 18, 6 p.m.
Where: Crowne Plaza Hotel, 1741 Papermill Road, Wyomissing, PA.
How much: Tickets range from $35 to $65, depending on general admission or ringside, or V.I.P. treatment.
How many fights: 12, five professional, five amateur, two exhibitions.
Who: Boxers from King's promotions
Be sure to come out and support the fallen officer and his family!
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Thursday, November 10, 2011
10 Best Football Games-Week 11!
The Penn State sec scandal has rocked the entire college sports world, enveloping the national and local media with all of the allegations, and it is going to be hard to focus on the field instead of the off field issues. Also, allow us to say a prayer for the victims and their families. But, the week is still going to happen. The blog is coming out a day early due to not one, but two games happening tomorrow night. One pro, one college, should be fun.
College
#7 Oregon at #4 Stanford, 8, ABC
This is a big Pac-12 North division showdown to decide which of these two teams will most likely determine who faces off in the inaugural Pac-12 championship game. This game is probably the most important in Andrew Luck's distinguished Stanford career. Luck and Stanford suffered their only loss last year to Oregon at Oregon, and that was by three touchdowns. Oregon has LaMichael James back, and they've got a very potent offense themselves.
There are two very different philosophies in this game as well, with Stanford running a very much pro style offense, running the ball and having a lot of size and liking to push folks around. Oregon meanwhile has very much a speed attack, where they like to spread you out and wear you down over time with this speed attack.
Both teams have played relatively cupcake schedules, with Stanford's only real good win came at USC a few weeks ago. But, Oregon has played LSU and Arizona State, who was ranked at the time. This game should be a shootout, as both teams have incredibly potent offenses and not that good of a defense. Call it a toss up.
Pick: Stanford 50, Oregon 48
#10 Virginia Tech at #21 Georgia Tech, 8, ESPN Thursday
Georgia Tech has had kind of a roller coaster season, as they started off on a big winning streak, winning their first seven games, with their biggest victory coming over North Carolina. Then, they lost their next two to Virginia and Miami. Then, back on October 29, they beat an unbeaten in fifth ranked Clemson quite handily, 31-17. Now, they've had ten days to really perfect this triple option which drives defensive coordinators nuts, as they never know who is going to run the ball.
Virginia Tech meanwhile, is again quietly having a very nice season, with their only loss coming to aforementioned Clemson. Tech is only a half game ahead of Georgia Tech currently in the ACC Coastal, so this is a very big game to see which team may be represented in the ACC Championship game. Tech is doing their usual thing of playing stout defense and excellent special teams while having a great running game.
This game is close again, but I think Georgia Tech will come out on top, due to this game coming after a bye and them playing at home on a Thursday.
Pick: Georgia Tech 35, Virginia Tech 24
#19 Nebraska at #12 Penn State, noon, ESPN
As much as I hate to do this game due to the allegations and all of the hoopla surrounding the campus, it is a big game within the Big Ten. Nebraska is coming off their first loss at home to a current Big Ten member in 30 years. So, they will be fired up to come and try and improve their standing within the Legends division. They've got a pretty good defense when they show up. But, they've allowed some big points to other teams which is concerning. But, they've got a really good running quarterback in Taylor Martinez and a good running back in Rex Burkhead as well. Both Martinez and Burkhead combine for over 1600 yards in on the ground. Meanwhile, Martinez has over 1500 yards passing as well.
Now, with Penn State. Penn State will be one very emotional place come Saturday at noon. There will be a blue out to help with the fight against child abuse. This will be the first time since Lyndon Johnson was in the White House that Joe Paterno will not be the head coach of the football team. The players will need to find something to play for and to maintain their two game lead in the Leaders division. I don't know how the team will perform, but I expect one heluva effort at least on senior day.
Pick: Penn State 24, Nebraska 23
TCU at #5 Boise State, 3:30, Versus
This game was supposed to be huge at the beginning of the year, not only for the conference, but possibly national championship implications. It was supposed to be the beginning of a rivalry in the Mountain West conference. However, it's looking more and more likely that both of these teams will no longer be a part of this conference. TCU first was going to leave for the Big East, now they're going to the Big 12. Now, Boise may move to the Big East, which doesn't make any sense whatsoever. This was originally scheduled to be in Fort Worth, but since TCU was switching conferences, the game has now been moved to Boise.
TCU has not been the same offensive or defensive juggernaut it was when Andy Dalton was there. In the first game of the season, they narrowly lost to a good Baylor team in Waco, and then their only other loss came at home to SMU in overtime. But, they've put together a nice season thus far to go 7-2. But, I don't think they have the experience to go up against Heisman contender Kellen Moore and Boise. Continue to hop onto the Boise bus as Pat Forde would say.
Pick: Boise 41, TCU 32
#20 Auburn at #15 Georgia, 3:30, CBS
Georgia needs this game to keep a leg up on South Carolina, as they're only up by a half game on them. Georgia has slowly but surely been climbing themselves out of an 0-2 hole, and now they're undefeated in the SEC East, and easily the class of that division currently.
Auburn is a good team, but not a particularly great one, as they've beaten the teams they've supposed to, but lost to the ones who are a class above them. They've got a good running back and defense, but no other true skill people.
Pick: Georgia 24, Auburn 13
NFL
Oakland at San Diego, 8:20, NFLN, Thursday
Both of these teams have really been scuffling, but since the AFC West is so bad, they're tied for first place at 4-4. San Diego has lost three straight, while Oakland has lost two straight. San Diego has blown leads and then lost to unquestionably the best team in football in the Packers, but they made the game close. Oakland just hasn't found its rhythm under new quarterback Carson Palmer. Palmer hasn't been quite the impact player that Oakland had hoped when they traded two high draft choices for him.
San Diego should have the upper hand, as they're getting their main running back in Ryan Mathews back and only use Mike Tolbert in third down and goal line situations. Their defense can attack Palmer, and since the Raiders don't really have that good of a running game now that Darren McFadden is out, they can force the Raiders to just get into passing mode and pick Palmer off easy.
Pick: San Diego 27, Oakland 20
New Orleans at Atlanta, 1, Fox
Atlanta is coming off an incredibly easy victory over the hapless Colts, where they performed well in ever facet of the game, and what team doesn't when facing the Colts? Julio Jones finally emerged last week as well as the elite receiver they were hoping in Julio Jones, with two touchdown catches and 130 yards. Atlanta will need to control the ball with Michael Turner and their secondary needs to step up against the potent passing game of Drew Brees and the Saints. This game is also important in the NFC South, as Atlanta is only a half game back of the Saints, and could determine who gets a home playoff game and who gets the wild card.
Pick: New Orleans 30, Atlanta 28
Pittsburgh at Cincinnati, 1, CBS
Cincinnati is a very surprising team coming out of the AFC North, as nobody expected them to do anything this season, as they lost Chad Ochocinco and Carson Palmer, while gaining their rookie replacements A.J. Green and Andy Dalton. Well, Cincinnati is now looking genius for that move, as they are 6-2 and both Dalton and Green are looking like pro bowl contenders.
Pittsburgh is coming off a very tough loss to Baltimore late in the fourth quarter, where their defense couldn't hold the lead. But, it seems like whenever Pittsburgh comes off a tough loss they always come back the next week and pummel their opponent. I expect no different here.
Pick: Pittsburgh 26, Cincy 13
New York Giants at San Francisco, 4:15, Fox
This is the biggest stage yet for the 49ers, as they are the featured game in Fox's late window and they're playing a team which just defeated the mighty Patriots. San Francisco continues to fly cross country and beat their opponents, as they did last week at Washington. San Francisco has been winning games using defense, a solid kicking game, a very good running game and a short passing game. Plus, Jim Harbaugh has been more than advertised as the new head coach.
New York meanwhile has much improved quarterback play from Eli Manning and they've gotten production out of their tight end, Jake Ballard, and Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz have really stepped up their games as wide receivers. This should be a very good hard fought, fairly low scoring game.
Pick: San Francisco 17, New York 13
New York Jets at New England, 8:20, NBC
New England can't lose three games in a row, can they? That hasn't happened since 2002. Granted, the defense isn't all that stout, they don't got all that good of a running game, but still, this is the Patriots, a team which hasn't lost three in a row since nine years ago. New York has been playing well lately, but there is no way I can foresee the Patriots losing three in a row, especially with Tom Brady at quarterback.
Pick: New England 28, New York 21
College
#7 Oregon at #4 Stanford, 8, ABC
This is a big Pac-12 North division showdown to decide which of these two teams will most likely determine who faces off in the inaugural Pac-12 championship game. This game is probably the most important in Andrew Luck's distinguished Stanford career. Luck and Stanford suffered their only loss last year to Oregon at Oregon, and that was by three touchdowns. Oregon has LaMichael James back, and they've got a very potent offense themselves.
There are two very different philosophies in this game as well, with Stanford running a very much pro style offense, running the ball and having a lot of size and liking to push folks around. Oregon meanwhile has very much a speed attack, where they like to spread you out and wear you down over time with this speed attack.
Both teams have played relatively cupcake schedules, with Stanford's only real good win came at USC a few weeks ago. But, Oregon has played LSU and Arizona State, who was ranked at the time. This game should be a shootout, as both teams have incredibly potent offenses and not that good of a defense. Call it a toss up.
Pick: Stanford 50, Oregon 48
#10 Virginia Tech at #21 Georgia Tech, 8, ESPN Thursday
Georgia Tech has had kind of a roller coaster season, as they started off on a big winning streak, winning their first seven games, with their biggest victory coming over North Carolina. Then, they lost their next two to Virginia and Miami. Then, back on October 29, they beat an unbeaten in fifth ranked Clemson quite handily, 31-17. Now, they've had ten days to really perfect this triple option which drives defensive coordinators nuts, as they never know who is going to run the ball.
Virginia Tech meanwhile, is again quietly having a very nice season, with their only loss coming to aforementioned Clemson. Tech is only a half game ahead of Georgia Tech currently in the ACC Coastal, so this is a very big game to see which team may be represented in the ACC Championship game. Tech is doing their usual thing of playing stout defense and excellent special teams while having a great running game.
This game is close again, but I think Georgia Tech will come out on top, due to this game coming after a bye and them playing at home on a Thursday.
Pick: Georgia Tech 35, Virginia Tech 24
#19 Nebraska at #12 Penn State, noon, ESPN
As much as I hate to do this game due to the allegations and all of the hoopla surrounding the campus, it is a big game within the Big Ten. Nebraska is coming off their first loss at home to a current Big Ten member in 30 years. So, they will be fired up to come and try and improve their standing within the Legends division. They've got a pretty good defense when they show up. But, they've allowed some big points to other teams which is concerning. But, they've got a really good running quarterback in Taylor Martinez and a good running back in Rex Burkhead as well. Both Martinez and Burkhead combine for over 1600 yards in on the ground. Meanwhile, Martinez has over 1500 yards passing as well.
Now, with Penn State. Penn State will be one very emotional place come Saturday at noon. There will be a blue out to help with the fight against child abuse. This will be the first time since Lyndon Johnson was in the White House that Joe Paterno will not be the head coach of the football team. The players will need to find something to play for and to maintain their two game lead in the Leaders division. I don't know how the team will perform, but I expect one heluva effort at least on senior day.
Pick: Penn State 24, Nebraska 23
TCU at #5 Boise State, 3:30, Versus
This game was supposed to be huge at the beginning of the year, not only for the conference, but possibly national championship implications. It was supposed to be the beginning of a rivalry in the Mountain West conference. However, it's looking more and more likely that both of these teams will no longer be a part of this conference. TCU first was going to leave for the Big East, now they're going to the Big 12. Now, Boise may move to the Big East, which doesn't make any sense whatsoever. This was originally scheduled to be in Fort Worth, but since TCU was switching conferences, the game has now been moved to Boise.
TCU has not been the same offensive or defensive juggernaut it was when Andy Dalton was there. In the first game of the season, they narrowly lost to a good Baylor team in Waco, and then their only other loss came at home to SMU in overtime. But, they've put together a nice season thus far to go 7-2. But, I don't think they have the experience to go up against Heisman contender Kellen Moore and Boise. Continue to hop onto the Boise bus as Pat Forde would say.
Pick: Boise 41, TCU 32
#20 Auburn at #15 Georgia, 3:30, CBS
Georgia needs this game to keep a leg up on South Carolina, as they're only up by a half game on them. Georgia has slowly but surely been climbing themselves out of an 0-2 hole, and now they're undefeated in the SEC East, and easily the class of that division currently.
Auburn is a good team, but not a particularly great one, as they've beaten the teams they've supposed to, but lost to the ones who are a class above them. They've got a good running back and defense, but no other true skill people.
Pick: Georgia 24, Auburn 13
NFL
Oakland at San Diego, 8:20, NFLN, Thursday
Both of these teams have really been scuffling, but since the AFC West is so bad, they're tied for first place at 4-4. San Diego has lost three straight, while Oakland has lost two straight. San Diego has blown leads and then lost to unquestionably the best team in football in the Packers, but they made the game close. Oakland just hasn't found its rhythm under new quarterback Carson Palmer. Palmer hasn't been quite the impact player that Oakland had hoped when they traded two high draft choices for him.
San Diego should have the upper hand, as they're getting their main running back in Ryan Mathews back and only use Mike Tolbert in third down and goal line situations. Their defense can attack Palmer, and since the Raiders don't really have that good of a running game now that Darren McFadden is out, they can force the Raiders to just get into passing mode and pick Palmer off easy.
Pick: San Diego 27, Oakland 20
New Orleans at Atlanta, 1, Fox
Atlanta is coming off an incredibly easy victory over the hapless Colts, where they performed well in ever facet of the game, and what team doesn't when facing the Colts? Julio Jones finally emerged last week as well as the elite receiver they were hoping in Julio Jones, with two touchdown catches and 130 yards. Atlanta will need to control the ball with Michael Turner and their secondary needs to step up against the potent passing game of Drew Brees and the Saints. This game is also important in the NFC South, as Atlanta is only a half game back of the Saints, and could determine who gets a home playoff game and who gets the wild card.
Pick: New Orleans 30, Atlanta 28
Pittsburgh at Cincinnati, 1, CBS
Cincinnati is a very surprising team coming out of the AFC North, as nobody expected them to do anything this season, as they lost Chad Ochocinco and Carson Palmer, while gaining their rookie replacements A.J. Green and Andy Dalton. Well, Cincinnati is now looking genius for that move, as they are 6-2 and both Dalton and Green are looking like pro bowl contenders.
Pittsburgh is coming off a very tough loss to Baltimore late in the fourth quarter, where their defense couldn't hold the lead. But, it seems like whenever Pittsburgh comes off a tough loss they always come back the next week and pummel their opponent. I expect no different here.
Pick: Pittsburgh 26, Cincy 13
New York Giants at San Francisco, 4:15, Fox
This is the biggest stage yet for the 49ers, as they are the featured game in Fox's late window and they're playing a team which just defeated the mighty Patriots. San Francisco continues to fly cross country and beat their opponents, as they did last week at Washington. San Francisco has been winning games using defense, a solid kicking game, a very good running game and a short passing game. Plus, Jim Harbaugh has been more than advertised as the new head coach.
New York meanwhile has much improved quarterback play from Eli Manning and they've gotten production out of their tight end, Jake Ballard, and Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz have really stepped up their games as wide receivers. This should be a very good hard fought, fairly low scoring game.
Pick: San Francisco 17, New York 13
New York Jets at New England, 8:20, NBC
New England can't lose three games in a row, can they? That hasn't happened since 2002. Granted, the defense isn't all that stout, they don't got all that good of a running game, but still, this is the Patriots, a team which hasn't lost three in a row since nine years ago. New York has been playing well lately, but there is no way I can foresee the Patriots losing three in a row, especially with Tom Brady at quarterback.
Pick: New England 28, New York 21
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
My thoughts on the Penn State Scandal
Tranqility, quiet, serenity, and football. These are the things you think of when you think of Pennsylvania State University. That was before the huge scandal that has rocked this great university. This scandal, for those of you who have been living under a rock, there are sexual molestation charges against former defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky. Then, because athletic director Tim Curley never reported this to the police, he has been charged with perjury and has been forced to resign, along with school Vice President Gary Schultz. This is the biggest scandal which has rocked this university in its history, which goes back to 1855.
This scandal breaks Penn State's slogan of "success with honor", as how can this program now have honor with this scandal? How could Curley and Schultz never have reported this to police? How could folks never have just called police and told them? How could police not have found anything wrong while investigating Sandusky and his foundation, the Second Mile?
Those are all rhetorical questions that we don't have the answer to. But, there are just so many layers to this story, and who knows what will come out of this story. Joe Paterno may not have his contract renewed after this season. Reports are coming out that the board of trustees are considering letting go of the coach which has put Penn State on the map, the one who's name is on the university library. Granted, Paterno never did anything criminally wrong. But, how could he not have called police after hearing from graduate assistant Mike McQueary what Sandusky was doing in the showers of the football buildings? So, Paterno did do something ethically wrong. Will this effect his status as an icon within the university and his coaching?
My opinion is no, it will not effect his status as an icon within the university, as people will still be talking about what he did to build up the university and putting it on the map. Without Paterno and the football program, who knows how many students would not have gone. Plus, noboday can deny what Paterno did in the football coaching world, the winningest coach ever in all of Division 1, is just crazy good.
However, Sandusky's image has been tainted forever in my opinion. Sandusky was known throughout the college football world as the best coordinator and coach to never hold a head coaching position. Even though he has done great work, this scandal, especially if he is proven guilty, will forever cast a cloud over him. Even if Sandusky is found not guilty, it will forever cast a gray cloud over his legacy as a man. How could the legacy of this man, if you still would like to call him that, not be tainted forever?
Now, for my thoughts on how the Penn State football team, and how they will fare this Saturday in their interdivision showdown, that will have to wait until tomorrow, as that's when my 10 Best Football games will come out.
O, and my stupidity and as Paterno said it best: "for the kids that were the victims, let's say a prayer for them."
I am a Christian, but definitely fumbled the ball here, as Dave Hershey pointed it out, thanks Dave, I appreciate it, I do. There are so many people who deserve blame, which I can't even say. Allow us to say a prayer for the victims and the families of this scandal.
This scandal breaks Penn State's slogan of "success with honor", as how can this program now have honor with this scandal? How could Curley and Schultz never have reported this to police? How could folks never have just called police and told them? How could police not have found anything wrong while investigating Sandusky and his foundation, the Second Mile?
Those are all rhetorical questions that we don't have the answer to. But, there are just so many layers to this story, and who knows what will come out of this story. Joe Paterno may not have his contract renewed after this season. Reports are coming out that the board of trustees are considering letting go of the coach which has put Penn State on the map, the one who's name is on the university library. Granted, Paterno never did anything criminally wrong. But, how could he not have called police after hearing from graduate assistant Mike McQueary what Sandusky was doing in the showers of the football buildings? So, Paterno did do something ethically wrong. Will this effect his status as an icon within the university and his coaching?
My opinion is no, it will not effect his status as an icon within the university, as people will still be talking about what he did to build up the university and putting it on the map. Without Paterno and the football program, who knows how many students would not have gone. Plus, noboday can deny what Paterno did in the football coaching world, the winningest coach ever in all of Division 1, is just crazy good.
However, Sandusky's image has been tainted forever in my opinion. Sandusky was known throughout the college football world as the best coordinator and coach to never hold a head coaching position. Even though he has done great work, this scandal, especially if he is proven guilty, will forever cast a cloud over him. Even if Sandusky is found not guilty, it will forever cast a gray cloud over his legacy as a man. How could the legacy of this man, if you still would like to call him that, not be tainted forever?
Now, for my thoughts on how the Penn State football team, and how they will fare this Saturday in their interdivision showdown, that will have to wait until tomorrow, as that's when my 10 Best Football games will come out.
O, and my stupidity and as Paterno said it best: "for the kids that were the victims, let's say a prayer for them."
I am a Christian, but definitely fumbled the ball here, as Dave Hershey pointed it out, thanks Dave, I appreciate it, I do. There are so many people who deserve blame, which I can't even say. Allow us to say a prayer for the victims and the families of this scandal.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
10 Best Football Games-Week 10!
Shockingly enough, we are now into the double digits as far as weeks are concerned into the football season, and only four more weeks from Sunday until we find out who will be playing in the national championship game in college football. The winner of number 1 LSU versus number 2 Alabama will most likely play in that game in the heart of SEC country. The game on Saturday is being hyped by CBS, the network broadcasting the game, as "the game of the century." It very well could be that too, as both teams are so very evenly matched, I don't even know who to pick.
Then, in the NFL, the Philadelphia Eagles could be coming back, following two straight victories over division rivals Washington and Dallas, now possibly a win over a quality Chicago team would have them in prime position to make a run. So, the final month of the college football season should be fun to see who is going to play in the title game and also in the final two months of the NFL season, to see who will make the playoffs.
College
# 1 LSU at #2 Alabama, 8 p.m., CBS
This game is way too close to call, both teams have outstanding defenses, top five in the nation for both. Both teams have quality offenses, which are good, but not overtly great like Oklahoma State's offense. This game is just way too close to call, but here are some reasons as to why I think Alabama will win: four of the five regular season games involving 1 vs. 2 have been won by the number two team, Alabama is at home, where they have gone 24-1 over their past 25 games there, with the only loss being the blowup against Auburn last season. Finally, Alabama is 45-24 over the course of the rivalry.
Pick: Alabama 20, LSU 17
#9 South Carolina at #7 Arkansas, 7:15, ESPN
This week proves the depth and also probably the bias of most to the SEC, as four of the top nine teams in the BCS are from the SEC. However, South Carolina should not win this game at all, or even have a chance. South Carolina lost its starting quarterback to his stupidity and rampant drug use, and they lost possibly the second best running back in the SEC in Marcus Lattimore to a torn ACL. Arkansas has a great quarterback in Tyler Wilson, can mix it up with running back combo Denis Johnson and Ronnie Wingo. Plus, Arkansas is looking to rebound from their horrible performance against Vandy a week ago.
Pick: Arkansas 44, South Carolina 13
#14 Kansas State at #3 Oklahoma State, 8, ESPN2
Kansas State proved last week why they never should have been ranked in the top ten, as they were thoroughly dominated by Oklahoma at home no less. The final score was 58-17 in favor of Oklahoma. Expect the same kind of shellacking at the hands of Oklahoma State this time. Kansas State just doesn't have the athletes to keep up with the high powered offenses of Oklahoma or Oklahoma State. Expect Brandon Weeden and Justin Blackmon to light it up at home.
Pick: OSU 61, K-State 21
Notre Dame at Wake Forest, 8, ABC
The formula for Notre Dame is simple, have a turnover margin of -1 or a positive one, they win, if they turn the ball over more than twice, you will probably lose. Simple as that, and since there is no way to predict that, I'm going with Notre Dame, because they've got better athletes and while Wake is a good team, they're nowhere close to Notre Dame's level.
Pick: Notre Dame 35, Wake 21
#8 Oregon at Washington, 10:30, Fox Sports Net, or Comcast SportsNet
This is actually a fairly interesting game, as while Washington may be unranked, their only two losses came against very quality opponents in Nebraska and Stanford. However, those are the only two quality opponents that the Huskies have played. But, both were on the road. So, this game could be tricky for Oregon. Oregon has been in relative obscurity ever since their opening week loss to LSU, Oregon has been rolling, scoring at least 41 points in each of their seven victories. So, while Washington may put up a bit of a fight at the beginning, Oregon should pull away in the second half for a nice victory.
Pick: Oregon 46, Washington 28
NFL
Tampa Bay at New Orleans, 1, Fox
New Orleans played pitifully last week against St. Louis, when they lost to a winless team. Tampa meanwhile is coming off a bye, which is helpful, as they are coming back from London, and a loss. This will be the second and final time in four weeks, when Tampa won in a tightly contested affair in Tampa. My gut feeling is that New Orleans should bounce back from their awful performance against St. Louis and establish themselves as the class of the NFC South again.
Pick: New Orleans 31, Tampa 17
New York Jets at Buffalo, 1, CBS
Interesting game, as New York is coming off a bye, and Buffalo is coming back to the states after thoroughly destroying reeling Washington in Toronto last week. Buffalo is continuing to win, somehow, but, the main force behind their wins has been their defenses ability to create turnovers, as they have a 2:1 ratio with turnovers. New York should be trying to take advantage of Buffalo's fairly weak rushing defense, as they've allowed nearly 120 yards per game. New York should be refreshed and run Shonn Greene plenty throughout the game.
Pick: New York 27, Buffalo 21
New York Giants at New England, 4:15, Fox
A rematch of that infamous Super Bowl XLII, where New York merged victorious and ruined New England's perfect season. Both teams are pretty equally matched here as well, as New England has their usual potent offense led by Tom Brady and his wide array of receivers. New York has its own nice blend of receivers, including two up and comers in Victor Cruz and tight end Jake Ballard to go along with their solid 1-2 punch of Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs. So, it should be one heckuva game, and relatively high scoring.
Pick: New England 34, New York 24
Baltimore at Pittsburgh, 8:20, NBC
After week one, most were already crowning the Ravens as the best team in the AFC, but since that opening week thumping b the Ravens, Pittsburgh has gone 6-1, with their only loss to another division leader in Houston. Now, this game is just going to be hard hitting, pure smashmouth football. Plus, it should be a lot closer than what the first one was. Both teams just plain dislike each other and both fanbases can't stand each other. This should be one close and filled with defense.
Pick: Pittsburgh 14, Baltimore 13
Chicago at Philadelphia, 8:30, ESPN, Monday
Philadelphia has looked sharp in their past two games, not turning the ball over, and last week they played a very solid full 60 minutes of football. Chicago is somewhat of a mystery team, as they can play really well one week, and not so much the following. They played fairly well in London against Tampa in their victory. Chicago has two big weapons, those being return man Devin Hester, who can run one back at any time, as he is the all-time return leader. Then, their all purpose running back in Matt Forte, who can rack up 200 all purpose yards in any game.
Philadelphia has their own all purpose back in LeSean McCoy, who leads the Philadelphia rushing attack. Philadelphia is much like Notre Dame in the fact that if they do not turn the ball over, they're pretty good. Then, on the defensive side of the ball, their "wide 9" defense seems to be working better, with maligned defensive coordinator Juan Castillo and defensive line coach Jim Washburn making the proper adjustments in running and passing situations. So, things seem to be coming together, and just at the right time.
Pick: Philadelphia 24, Chicago 23
Then, in the NFL, the Philadelphia Eagles could be coming back, following two straight victories over division rivals Washington and Dallas, now possibly a win over a quality Chicago team would have them in prime position to make a run. So, the final month of the college football season should be fun to see who is going to play in the title game and also in the final two months of the NFL season, to see who will make the playoffs.
College
# 1 LSU at #2 Alabama, 8 p.m., CBS
This game is way too close to call, both teams have outstanding defenses, top five in the nation for both. Both teams have quality offenses, which are good, but not overtly great like Oklahoma State's offense. This game is just way too close to call, but here are some reasons as to why I think Alabama will win: four of the five regular season games involving 1 vs. 2 have been won by the number two team, Alabama is at home, where they have gone 24-1 over their past 25 games there, with the only loss being the blowup against Auburn last season. Finally, Alabama is 45-24 over the course of the rivalry.
Pick: Alabama 20, LSU 17
#9 South Carolina at #7 Arkansas, 7:15, ESPN
This week proves the depth and also probably the bias of most to the SEC, as four of the top nine teams in the BCS are from the SEC. However, South Carolina should not win this game at all, or even have a chance. South Carolina lost its starting quarterback to his stupidity and rampant drug use, and they lost possibly the second best running back in the SEC in Marcus Lattimore to a torn ACL. Arkansas has a great quarterback in Tyler Wilson, can mix it up with running back combo Denis Johnson and Ronnie Wingo. Plus, Arkansas is looking to rebound from their horrible performance against Vandy a week ago.
Pick: Arkansas 44, South Carolina 13
#14 Kansas State at #3 Oklahoma State, 8, ESPN2
Kansas State proved last week why they never should have been ranked in the top ten, as they were thoroughly dominated by Oklahoma at home no less. The final score was 58-17 in favor of Oklahoma. Expect the same kind of shellacking at the hands of Oklahoma State this time. Kansas State just doesn't have the athletes to keep up with the high powered offenses of Oklahoma or Oklahoma State. Expect Brandon Weeden and Justin Blackmon to light it up at home.
Pick: OSU 61, K-State 21
Notre Dame at Wake Forest, 8, ABC
The formula for Notre Dame is simple, have a turnover margin of -1 or a positive one, they win, if they turn the ball over more than twice, you will probably lose. Simple as that, and since there is no way to predict that, I'm going with Notre Dame, because they've got better athletes and while Wake is a good team, they're nowhere close to Notre Dame's level.
Pick: Notre Dame 35, Wake 21
#8 Oregon at Washington, 10:30, Fox Sports Net, or Comcast SportsNet
This is actually a fairly interesting game, as while Washington may be unranked, their only two losses came against very quality opponents in Nebraska and Stanford. However, those are the only two quality opponents that the Huskies have played. But, both were on the road. So, this game could be tricky for Oregon. Oregon has been in relative obscurity ever since their opening week loss to LSU, Oregon has been rolling, scoring at least 41 points in each of their seven victories. So, while Washington may put up a bit of a fight at the beginning, Oregon should pull away in the second half for a nice victory.
Pick: Oregon 46, Washington 28
NFL
Tampa Bay at New Orleans, 1, Fox
New Orleans played pitifully last week against St. Louis, when they lost to a winless team. Tampa meanwhile is coming off a bye, which is helpful, as they are coming back from London, and a loss. This will be the second and final time in four weeks, when Tampa won in a tightly contested affair in Tampa. My gut feeling is that New Orleans should bounce back from their awful performance against St. Louis and establish themselves as the class of the NFC South again.
Pick: New Orleans 31, Tampa 17
New York Jets at Buffalo, 1, CBS
Interesting game, as New York is coming off a bye, and Buffalo is coming back to the states after thoroughly destroying reeling Washington in Toronto last week. Buffalo is continuing to win, somehow, but, the main force behind their wins has been their defenses ability to create turnovers, as they have a 2:1 ratio with turnovers. New York should be trying to take advantage of Buffalo's fairly weak rushing defense, as they've allowed nearly 120 yards per game. New York should be refreshed and run Shonn Greene plenty throughout the game.
Pick: New York 27, Buffalo 21
New York Giants at New England, 4:15, Fox
A rematch of that infamous Super Bowl XLII, where New York merged victorious and ruined New England's perfect season. Both teams are pretty equally matched here as well, as New England has their usual potent offense led by Tom Brady and his wide array of receivers. New York has its own nice blend of receivers, including two up and comers in Victor Cruz and tight end Jake Ballard to go along with their solid 1-2 punch of Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs. So, it should be one heckuva game, and relatively high scoring.
Pick: New England 34, New York 24
Baltimore at Pittsburgh, 8:20, NBC
After week one, most were already crowning the Ravens as the best team in the AFC, but since that opening week thumping b the Ravens, Pittsburgh has gone 6-1, with their only loss to another division leader in Houston. Now, this game is just going to be hard hitting, pure smashmouth football. Plus, it should be a lot closer than what the first one was. Both teams just plain dislike each other and both fanbases can't stand each other. This should be one close and filled with defense.
Pick: Pittsburgh 14, Baltimore 13
Chicago at Philadelphia, 8:30, ESPN, Monday
Philadelphia has looked sharp in their past two games, not turning the ball over, and last week they played a very solid full 60 minutes of football. Chicago is somewhat of a mystery team, as they can play really well one week, and not so much the following. They played fairly well in London against Tampa in their victory. Chicago has two big weapons, those being return man Devin Hester, who can run one back at any time, as he is the all-time return leader. Then, their all purpose running back in Matt Forte, who can rack up 200 all purpose yards in any game.
Philadelphia has their own all purpose back in LeSean McCoy, who leads the Philadelphia rushing attack. Philadelphia is much like Notre Dame in the fact that if they do not turn the ball over, they're pretty good. Then, on the defensive side of the ball, their "wide 9" defense seems to be working better, with maligned defensive coordinator Juan Castillo and defensive line coach Jim Washburn making the proper adjustments in running and passing situations. So, things seem to be coming together, and just at the right time.
Pick: Philadelphia 24, Chicago 23
Friday, October 28, 2011
World Series thoughts.
This World Series was amazing. It had it all, great defense, bad defense, historic offensive nights, historic blows, extra innings, high scoring games, low scoring games, I could go on. Only 36th game seven in World Series history. All games were close, except for game three in Arlington, which was won by nine runs. But, if you're a fan of the game, this World Series was just so compelling. All games had a high sense of drama, at one point or another.
Game one had it going back and forth, knowing with this Rangers team, that they could come back and force extra innings.
Game two went back to Texas, due to some great pitching by Colby Lewis and the Ranger bullpen. Game two also featured some high drama in the ninth inning, just as it looked when Texas was going to be down 2-0 in games in consecutive World Series, Ian Kinsler, Elvis Andrus and Josh Hamilton all came up big for the Rangers. It also featured some help from Albert Pujols, who misplayed a ball coming in from the outfield, which allowed Andrus to get into scoring position.
Game three was what most expected, as the Series shifted back to Texas and the warm weather and the hitter friendly nature of the Rangers ballpark. It also featured only the third game in World Series history to have three home runs hit in one game by one player. Only fitting that the player was Albert Pujols, who many consider to be the best player in the game.
Game four shifted back to Texas' favor, with an absolute gem of a pitching performance by little known Derek Holland, who pitched 8 1/3 innings of shutout baseball. Also featured Mike Napoli starting to make his case for World Series MVP at that point, with his three run home run to give the Rangers the lead for good.
Game five was pivotal for both teams, as it was then just a best of three scenario, with St. Louis having home field advantage. Texas really needed this game in the minds of many, as then they would only have to win one of the final two games in St. Louis before winning their first championship in franchise history, which goes back 50 years. Texas pulled it out in the eighth, with Napoli making an emphatic case to be MVP with his go ahead two run double in that inning. This game also featured some bullpen phone malfunctions, which must be resolved next season before something chaotic ensues.
Game six was the most drama filled game in recent memory, as in the first few innings, nobody seemed to know how to play defense, which had five errors combined before the fifth inning. Game six was also the only extra inning game in this World Series, which is remarkable, considering how much drama it had. St. Louis then proved themselves to truly be comeback kids, starting in the eighth inning, when Allen Craig hit a solo homer, then in the ninth, the Cardinals came back off great closer Neftali Feliz, when David Freese, a homegrown talent, literally came up and tied the game with a triple. Then, in the tenth, Jason Motte, who was terrific throughout the final month of the regular season and in the postseason, blew it, when Josh Hamilton hit a bomb to make it 9-7 Texas. But, in the bottom half of the inning, the Cardinals came back again, their second time, and the second time down to their final strike. The game ended at 12:35 eastern time, but from my perspective, it was thrilling when David Freese again came through with a solo home run to force a game seven.
Game seven wasn't as drama filled as the others, but it still packed quite a punch, with Texas seeming to shake off the loss from game six with ease, going ahead two nothing, but the the Cardinals roared right back, with a two spot in the bottom half of the first. Then, it was all Cardinals.
The Cardinals were an improbable World Series team at the beginning of September, being 8.5 games back of the Atlanta Braves in the Wild Card, something very few teams have done, but they just went on a tear at the end of the season, and into the postseason. First, they beat a team who many considered to be the team to beat in the Philadelphia Phillies in five games, then they beat their divisional rival in the Brewers in six games, then they denied the Rangers their first World Series title. So many words can describe this team, but only one does it for me: persevere. That is what this team did throughout the end of the season. St. Louis fans should be proud of this team, and now they're praying that their best player Albert Pujols doesn't sign elsewhere and give that team a World Series title. Pujols shouldn't go anywhere though, as he has invested himself into the community in St. Louis and he will be revered throughout the area and possibly displace Stan "the man" Musial sa the greatest Cardinal of all time.
Hope the blog was enjoyable!
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!
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!
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