First, if anyone has a better title for this, please let me know either by commenting on here or on facebook. As I'm not necessarily sure what to have the headline be each week. Ok, now, if you are busy this weekend, or have to go somewhere one of the two days this weekend, make it Sunday and miss the NFL games. Simply because the NFL does not have the marquee games this weekend, it's in college. The reason why college has the better games is because there are four, count them four games this weekend pitting two teams within the top 15 of the BCS rankings together. Plus, there is another whole host of games in which to get excited about which I'm not going to preview here. (That's what the guys at ESPN's "College Gameday" are paid to do, this is just for fun.) The NFL only has one, maybe two marquee games, and those are the Giants at Dallas, and Atlanta at Philadelphia. So, if you want to spend one day with your feet up on the recliner and not do anything other than watch football, it's definitely Saturday.
College
No. 2 Florida vs. No. 10 Georgia (in Jacksonville), 3:30, CBS
"The world's largest outdoor cocktail party" as it is known resumes again Saturday. And, with it, Florida would clinch a spot in the SEC title game, and it's not even November yet! But, Florida and it's stifling defense looks like a lock to do so even if they do not win this game. But, Florida looked overpowering in it's dismantling of then number seven South Carolina last week with it's defense. As that is how Florida won the game last week. Their offense didn't need to do much, as the defense forced four turnovers. Florida will likely continue to do it this week as well, as they are ready to come back from a loss last year in this rivalry game. Plus, Georgia has not won a game against a top 10 school since 2009 when they did it against arch rival Georgia Tech. That streak will continue here.
Pick: Florida 35, Georgia 13
No. 14 Texas Tech at No. 3 K-State, 3:30, Fox
Fox has quite the doubleheader in college and professional football this weekend, as it has this game, which is sneaky good, and the Giants-Dallas game on Sunday, so look for good ratings for them. But, now to the actual x's and o's instead of sports media talk. This game is sneaky good, because nobody expected this game to be a turning point within the Big 12 this season. Especially considering that Tech wasn't even ranked in the preseason, and K-State was ranked either 22nd or 21st depending on which preseason poll you looked at. Tech has vaulted into the polls after destroying what everyone thought was a BCS contender in West Virginia, and followed that up with a victory over TCU in triple overtime. So, this team is very much battle tested. Then, K-State has just been rolling along with its Heisman front runner in Collin Klein. Klein is producing more than 75% of the Wildcats offense this year, and Tech will need to stop him, otherwise they've got zero shot of winning this game. Tech also has a pretty good quarterback of its own in Seth Doege, who is more of a threat throwing the ball than running it. But, do not overlook these defenses, who rank within the top 20% of division 1-A. But, since the Wildcats are at home, go with them. But, do not be surprised at the upset.
Pick: K-State 38, Tech 34
Ohio State at Penn State, 5:30, ESPN
If this was last season, this game would rank as another game, perhaps between two top 20 opponents, instead of unranked opponents. This being because Ohio State idiotically chose this year to take its bowl ban instead of last year when they sucked under interim head coach Luke Fickell. But, as the old saying goes, hindsight is 20/20. Plus, Penn State wasn't mired in the mess of the Jerry Sandusky scandal. But, I'm putting this game in here, because both teams are playing very well. Ohio State is currently undefeated and would contend for the national title if it was bowl eligible. And Penn State is on a roll after losing its first two games. Plus, Bill O'Brien really looks to be the man right for the job at Penn State. This is Penn State's only night game for the year, and it's a white-out, so go with the upset.
Pick: Penn State 24, Ohio State 21
No. 5 Notre Dame at No. 8 Oklahoma, 8, ABC
"College Gameday" is here, it features the national title commentating team of Brent Musburger and Kirk Herbstreit, and it's a night game. Seems like an electric atmosphere for what should be an excellent game. This is Notre Dame's biggest true test of the season so far. And, they will definitely need to play better than they did last week against BYU when they had three interceptions. The running game was magnificent, as both Theo Riddick and Cierre Wood ran for over 100 yeards. Plus, Notre Dame is changing quarterbacks again, back to sophomore quarterback Everett Golson. But, Oklahoma is a definite contender still, after their loss to K-State at home a few weeks ago. Landry Jones, perhaps the second best quarterback in the Big 12 may have something to say about Notre Dame's possible national title game chances. Now, this is hurting myself as a Notre Dame fan, but since Oklahoma is at home, go with them.
Pick: Oklahoma 28, Notre Dame 24
No. 11 Mississippi State at No. 1 Alabama, 8:30, ESPN
Mississippi State is a great story under Dan Mullen, going undefeated thus far. But, to go into Alabama and win? This is not going to happen.
Pick: Alabama 48, Mississippi State 10
NFL
Atlanta at Philadelphia, 1, Fox
Both teams are coming off a bye week, and Philly underneath Andy Reid is undefeated after the bye week. But, Philly just fired their defensive coordinator, Juan Castillo, who just came into the job last season. So, Philly is now working on its fourth defensive coordinator in the last four years in Todd Bowles. Philadelphia also must work on its turnover problem, which has over 2 a game. And, that will result in a 3-3 record. Atlanta on the other hand, does not have that turnover problem. That also results in the only undefeated team left in the NFL. But, Atlanta has had close calls against Oakland, Carolina and Denver throughout the season. Atlanta also is looking for back to back victories against the Eagles. And, I think this could be the end of the Mike Vick era in Philly with this loss.
Pick: Atlanta 27, Philly 26
Miami at New York Jets, 1, CBS
The Jets are coming off a heartbreaking loss in New England, after they had scratched and clawed their way back from a deficit in the second half. Miami is also on a two game winning streak and after a bye. Plus, this is a rivalry game, so stats do not really matter in this kind of game.
Pick: Miami 20, New York Jets 16
Washington at Pittsburgh, 1, Fox
This game isn't necessarily marquee, as the Skins are 3-4, and the Steelers are 3-3, but it is a fascinating game in which to try and dissect. The reason because it will be interesting to see whether the aging Steelers defense can try to contain RG3. Griffin has been the most dynamic player in all of the NFL. I don't think RG3 will have the most amazing day ever, but he will still be effective. Pittsburgh will win though because Washington's defense isn't all that good.
Pick: Pittsburgh 34, Washington 27
New York Giants at Dallas, 4:25, Fox
Rivalry game. This is the biggest rivalry in the division in my book. (Apologies to Eagles and Dallas or Eagles and Giants.) Dallas and the G-men battled back and forth for the division all of last season, and we all know how that turned out. But, this is going to be one hard fought game. It'll be a battle as well. However, I must go with the G-men, based on how well they have played thus far this season, and knowing that Eli is never out of a game.
Pick: New York 21, Dallas 17
San Francisco at Arizona, 8:30, Monday, ESPN
This is for first place in the NFC West. San Francisco is coming off a win against Seattle, in which they started off sluggishly, but came through in the second half for a touchdown victory. Arizona has been on a free fall though after their torrid 4-0 start to the season. And, now they have John Skelton, who isn't that good, back at quarterback. The free fall will continue.
Pick: San Francisco 26, Arizona 10
Now, stay tuned this week for a World Series preview, a quick NBA preview, and a NHL rant on how stupid they are.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Week 7 NFL/Week 8 College 10 Best Football games!
First, some of you may be wondering this thought "Hey, P.J. hasn't posted anything since June, what has happened to him?" Well, here is your answer, I've been working plenty. But, that's not really an excuse, as there are others who work and can raise a child or children and still write a blog. Well, truthfully, I'm lazy as all get out, which is the real reason why I haven't done anything since June. That should change starting this week. Thanks to my girlfriend basically calling me out on my laziness. I hope to post my 10 best football games each week ranging anywhere from Tuesday-Thursday by noon. So, here is the first of what I hope will be many new posts. And, to give you an idea of what I hope to post within the next month would be the following: a World Series preview, an NBA preview, and either an NHL rant or preview depending on what happens with their labor situation. Now, for the previews!
As a side note, all previews will begin with the college game, and rankings will be based on the BCS standings. Plus, all games on Saturday unless otherwise noted.
No. 3 Oregon at Arizona State, Thursday, 9, ESPN
While Arizona State may be unranked, do not be fooled, they do have a 5-1 record, and lead a pretty good PAC-12 south division. Arizona State will also be looking to defeat Oregon for the first time in what would be the 8th time on Thursday. Oregon is also playing in its first true road test of the season, as they did play Washington State in Seattle, but that game was closer to Eugene than Pullman, so not really a road game. While Oregon still has the fastest running back in the PAC-12 as well as a dynamic kick returner in De'Anthony Thomas, I'mm going to go with the upset.
Pick: Arizona State 45, Oregon 42
No. 6 LSU at No. 18 Texas A&M, noon, ESPN
This is a contrast of two very different styles, as LSU features a great defense, ranking second in all of Division 1-A only allowing 222 yards per game. Now, that is what keeps them in games, as they can't get into the endzone, as an example last week against South Carolina they got to the red zone four times, but could not convert into a touchdown. Plus, LSU's quarterback, Zack Mettenberger is completing less than 50 percent of his passes, which will not get the job done. As for Texas A&M, they are the epitome of an offensive team. They score nearly 50 points per game, and with true freshman Johnny Manizel at quarterback, who leads the team in both passing and rushing, he is performing right into new coach Kevin Sumlin's style, which is of course the spread offense. A&M is at home, and also on a 5 game winning streak, so go with the Aggies.
Pick: Texas A&M 37, LSU 30
No. 7 South Carolina at No. 2 Florida, 3:;30, CBS
This is for top billing in the SEC East, and the winner controls their own destiny to the National semifinal game, AKA the SEC title game in Atlanta. Florida is coming off a hard fought victory at believe it or not Vandy. Florida has had the billing throughout the season to keep the game close in the first half, and then pull away in the second half. South Carolina is coming off a very tough road loss at LSU by two points in a very hard fought battle. South Carolina may be without their best player in Marcus Lattimore, who suffered a bruised hip in the loss to LSU. That, I think will be the key in the game, how Lattimore performs against a stout Gator defense. If he can go back to his normal 100 yard a game performance, then go with the Cocks.
If not, obviously go with the Gators. And, since the game is at home for the Gators, they'll pull it out.
Pick: Florida 21, South Carolina 17
No. 17 Texas Tech at No. 23 TCU, 3:30, ABC/ESPN2 (check local listings)
Texas Tech is coming off a huge victory, and blowout victory I might add against then No. 5 West Virginia which slowed down Heisman candidate Geno Smith to only one touchdown and nearly 300 yards passing. Tech is also ranked in the top four in total defense which is a complete surprise to many, including this blogger. When you normally think of Texas Tech, you normally think of a prolific passing attack, but they are proving to be stout on defense as well. Tech also does have that prolific passing game as well, ranking 4th in the nation with Seth Doege, averaging 369 yards per game. TCU, on the other hand, runs a very balanced attack and tries to win playing solid defense. TCU is also adjusting to life after starting quarterback Casey Pachall withdrew from school due to drug and alcohol addiction. That will be tough, and Pachall's replacement, Trevone Boykin didn't fare too badly last week against Baylor, going for 267 yards and 4 touchdowns. Tech is also looking to beat another ranked opponent, which it hasn't accomplished in a while. So, with that, go with the home team.
Pick: TCU 27, Tech 23
No. 4 Kansas State at No. 13 West Virginia, 7, Fox
West Virginia is coming off the aforementioned blowout at Texas Tech, which had no idea what was coming, seeing as how it was blowing up the scoreboard in each of its first five games, scoring at least 31 points in each of those until Tech stopped them in their tracks, only putting up 14 points last Saturday. West Virginia is led by Heisman candidate Geno Smith, who already has over 2200 yards passing and 25 touchdowns as well as amazingly enough, zero interceptions. K-State meanwhile is led by its own Heisman candidate Colin Klein, who is a dual threat, as he has over 1500 yards combined rushing and passing, and is second on his team in rushing. K-State also doesn't beat themselves, only turning the ball over four times this season. Expect a lot of offense in this game, as evidenced by the over/under line of 73. Also expect West Virginia to bounce back from a tough loss.
Pick: West Virginia 45, K-State 41
NFL Picks
All games are on Sunday unless otherwise noted.
Seattle at San Francisco, 8:20, Thursday, NFL Network
Both teams are tied for the lead in the NFC West, once perceived as the league's weakest division, now very well could be perceived as it's strongest, with each team at .500 or above, no other division in the NFL can say that. The AFC East has all four teams at .500. Both of these teams also feature strong defenses and stout running games. But,San Francisco is coming off a blowout loss at home to defending Super Bowl champion New York Giants. And, San Francisco bounced back nicely with a blowout victory against the Jets in their only other loss of the season. Seattle meanwhile got a come from behind victory against the other Super Bowl team last year, in the Patriots. And, rookie quarterback Russell Wilson is looking to prove himself, being one of the shortest quarterbacks in the league, at 5'11" is poised and is very capable of running the offense, and just being careful. But, I think that San Francisco, being at home will prevail.
Pick: San Francisco 21, Seattle 13
Baltimore at Houston, 1, CBS
Houston is coming off a blowout loss at home, which it hasn't suffered in a while. But, that loss was probably an aberration, as they were the most dominant team in all of the NFL prior too the loss against Green Bay. Using a great defense and a solid running game with Arian Foster and ranking 7th in all of the NFL in total defense, and a defensive Player of the Year candidate in defensive end J.J. Watt destroying opposing quarterbacks. Now, Baltimore may be coming off a win against Dallas, but in all reality, they are looking at a horrible loss with the losses of LaDarius Webb, their best cornerback and Ray Lewis, the heart and soul of the defense. So, those are huge losses for a team which relies on defense.
Pick: Houston 35, Baltimore 24
Green Bay at St. Louis, 1, Fox
This is a very intriguing match up of two 3-3 teams. St. Louis is much improved after a coaching change in the offseason, bringing in a refreshed Jeff Fisher, who was fired from Tennessee after 16 seasons in Houston/Memphis/Nashville. His style has forced the defense to become much better and the offense is much more balanced. However, the team is simply over matched against a seasoned quarterback in Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay defense will force Sam Bradford into interceptions and sacks.
Pick: Green Bay 40, St. Louis 23
Arizona at Minnesota, 1, Fox
Another intriguing matchup, two teams which weren't expected to be in first place at this juncture in the season, but here they are, two 4-2 teams which have looked pretty good thus far. Minnesota is riding the back of Adrian Peterson, who is coming back stronger than ever from his torn ACL. Then, second year quarterback Christian Ponder is performing above expectations, throwing for 8 touchdowns compared to only 4 interceptions. Then, Arizona has shuffled between two quarterbacks throughout the season, John Skelton and Kevin Kolb thanks to injury. But, they are performing well under the circumstances. Minnesota is looking to improve to 4-0 at home, and should be able to continue that with their defense pressuring the other quarterback with Jared Allen leading the way.
Pick: Minny 27, Arizona 21
New York Jets at New England, 4:25, CBS
New England coming off a loss is pretty much unbeatable, and they just got shellshocked in Seattle. Plus, New York has been a team of ups and downs throughout the season. Many downs, a few ups. and can only beat bad teams. New York has beaten Miami and Buffalo, who despite their 3-3 records are still pretty bad, as well as the Colts who also completely suck, even though they did beat Green Bay in a spirited effort. So, go with the Patriots in a complete blowout.
Pick: New England 38, NY Jets 10.
Hope to see many comments!
As a side note, all previews will begin with the college game, and rankings will be based on the BCS standings. Plus, all games on Saturday unless otherwise noted.
No. 3 Oregon at Arizona State, Thursday, 9, ESPN
While Arizona State may be unranked, do not be fooled, they do have a 5-1 record, and lead a pretty good PAC-12 south division. Arizona State will also be looking to defeat Oregon for the first time in what would be the 8th time on Thursday. Oregon is also playing in its first true road test of the season, as they did play Washington State in Seattle, but that game was closer to Eugene than Pullman, so not really a road game. While Oregon still has the fastest running back in the PAC-12 as well as a dynamic kick returner in De'Anthony Thomas, I'mm going to go with the upset.
Pick: Arizona State 45, Oregon 42
No. 6 LSU at No. 18 Texas A&M, noon, ESPN
This is a contrast of two very different styles, as LSU features a great defense, ranking second in all of Division 1-A only allowing 222 yards per game. Now, that is what keeps them in games, as they can't get into the endzone, as an example last week against South Carolina they got to the red zone four times, but could not convert into a touchdown. Plus, LSU's quarterback, Zack Mettenberger is completing less than 50 percent of his passes, which will not get the job done. As for Texas A&M, they are the epitome of an offensive team. They score nearly 50 points per game, and with true freshman Johnny Manizel at quarterback, who leads the team in both passing and rushing, he is performing right into new coach Kevin Sumlin's style, which is of course the spread offense. A&M is at home, and also on a 5 game winning streak, so go with the Aggies.
Pick: Texas A&M 37, LSU 30
No. 7 South Carolina at No. 2 Florida, 3:;30, CBS
This is for top billing in the SEC East, and the winner controls their own destiny to the National semifinal game, AKA the SEC title game in Atlanta. Florida is coming off a hard fought victory at believe it or not Vandy. Florida has had the billing throughout the season to keep the game close in the first half, and then pull away in the second half. South Carolina is coming off a very tough road loss at LSU by two points in a very hard fought battle. South Carolina may be without their best player in Marcus Lattimore, who suffered a bruised hip in the loss to LSU. That, I think will be the key in the game, how Lattimore performs against a stout Gator defense. If he can go back to his normal 100 yard a game performance, then go with the Cocks.
If not, obviously go with the Gators. And, since the game is at home for the Gators, they'll pull it out.
Pick: Florida 21, South Carolina 17
No. 17 Texas Tech at No. 23 TCU, 3:30, ABC/ESPN2 (check local listings)
Texas Tech is coming off a huge victory, and blowout victory I might add against then No. 5 West Virginia which slowed down Heisman candidate Geno Smith to only one touchdown and nearly 300 yards passing. Tech is also ranked in the top four in total defense which is a complete surprise to many, including this blogger. When you normally think of Texas Tech, you normally think of a prolific passing attack, but they are proving to be stout on defense as well. Tech also does have that prolific passing game as well, ranking 4th in the nation with Seth Doege, averaging 369 yards per game. TCU, on the other hand, runs a very balanced attack and tries to win playing solid defense. TCU is also adjusting to life after starting quarterback Casey Pachall withdrew from school due to drug and alcohol addiction. That will be tough, and Pachall's replacement, Trevone Boykin didn't fare too badly last week against Baylor, going for 267 yards and 4 touchdowns. Tech is also looking to beat another ranked opponent, which it hasn't accomplished in a while. So, with that, go with the home team.
Pick: TCU 27, Tech 23
No. 4 Kansas State at No. 13 West Virginia, 7, Fox
West Virginia is coming off the aforementioned blowout at Texas Tech, which had no idea what was coming, seeing as how it was blowing up the scoreboard in each of its first five games, scoring at least 31 points in each of those until Tech stopped them in their tracks, only putting up 14 points last Saturday. West Virginia is led by Heisman candidate Geno Smith, who already has over 2200 yards passing and 25 touchdowns as well as amazingly enough, zero interceptions. K-State meanwhile is led by its own Heisman candidate Colin Klein, who is a dual threat, as he has over 1500 yards combined rushing and passing, and is second on his team in rushing. K-State also doesn't beat themselves, only turning the ball over four times this season. Expect a lot of offense in this game, as evidenced by the over/under line of 73. Also expect West Virginia to bounce back from a tough loss.
Pick: West Virginia 45, K-State 41
NFL Picks
All games are on Sunday unless otherwise noted.
Seattle at San Francisco, 8:20, Thursday, NFL Network
Both teams are tied for the lead in the NFC West, once perceived as the league's weakest division, now very well could be perceived as it's strongest, with each team at .500 or above, no other division in the NFL can say that. The AFC East has all four teams at .500. Both of these teams also feature strong defenses and stout running games. But,San Francisco is coming off a blowout loss at home to defending Super Bowl champion New York Giants. And, San Francisco bounced back nicely with a blowout victory against the Jets in their only other loss of the season. Seattle meanwhile got a come from behind victory against the other Super Bowl team last year, in the Patriots. And, rookie quarterback Russell Wilson is looking to prove himself, being one of the shortest quarterbacks in the league, at 5'11" is poised and is very capable of running the offense, and just being careful. But, I think that San Francisco, being at home will prevail.
Pick: San Francisco 21, Seattle 13
Baltimore at Houston, 1, CBS
Houston is coming off a blowout loss at home, which it hasn't suffered in a while. But, that loss was probably an aberration, as they were the most dominant team in all of the NFL prior too the loss against Green Bay. Using a great defense and a solid running game with Arian Foster and ranking 7th in all of the NFL in total defense, and a defensive Player of the Year candidate in defensive end J.J. Watt destroying opposing quarterbacks. Now, Baltimore may be coming off a win against Dallas, but in all reality, they are looking at a horrible loss with the losses of LaDarius Webb, their best cornerback and Ray Lewis, the heart and soul of the defense. So, those are huge losses for a team which relies on defense.
Pick: Houston 35, Baltimore 24
Green Bay at St. Louis, 1, Fox
This is a very intriguing match up of two 3-3 teams. St. Louis is much improved after a coaching change in the offseason, bringing in a refreshed Jeff Fisher, who was fired from Tennessee after 16 seasons in Houston/Memphis/Nashville. His style has forced the defense to become much better and the offense is much more balanced. However, the team is simply over matched against a seasoned quarterback in Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay defense will force Sam Bradford into interceptions and sacks.
Pick: Green Bay 40, St. Louis 23
Arizona at Minnesota, 1, Fox
Another intriguing matchup, two teams which weren't expected to be in first place at this juncture in the season, but here they are, two 4-2 teams which have looked pretty good thus far. Minnesota is riding the back of Adrian Peterson, who is coming back stronger than ever from his torn ACL. Then, second year quarterback Christian Ponder is performing above expectations, throwing for 8 touchdowns compared to only 4 interceptions. Then, Arizona has shuffled between two quarterbacks throughout the season, John Skelton and Kevin Kolb thanks to injury. But, they are performing well under the circumstances. Minnesota is looking to improve to 4-0 at home, and should be able to continue that with their defense pressuring the other quarterback with Jared Allen leading the way.
Pick: Minny 27, Arizona 21
New York Jets at New England, 4:25, CBS
New England coming off a loss is pretty much unbeatable, and they just got shellshocked in Seattle. Plus, New York has been a team of ups and downs throughout the season. Many downs, a few ups. and can only beat bad teams. New York has beaten Miami and Buffalo, who despite their 3-3 records are still pretty bad, as well as the Colts who also completely suck, even though they did beat Green Bay in a spirited effort. So, go with the Patriots in a complete blowout.
Pick: New England 38, NY Jets 10.
Hope to see many comments!
Monday, June 11, 2012
NBA Finals Preview
Yes, the NBA finals are beginning, just five and a half months after the season began on Christmas day of 2011. And, as per usual, it has two teams which were contenders at the beginning of the season in the Oklahoma City Thunder and the defending Eastern Conference Champion Miami Heat. This should be a very exciting series, as both teams match up pretty well with each other. Both teams like to run an up tempo game, so these games should be fairly exciting and relatively high scoring, with both teams reaching the century mark somewhat frequently. But, Oklahoma City just faced a perennial contender in the San Antonio Spurs and after losing the first two games, swept them right out of the playoffs by playing stellar defense. That is what I expect the Thunder to do for this series. Oklahoma City has one big downfall, and that is lack of experience, as everyone in the starting five, except for Kendrick Perkins has not been in an NBA Finals. Granted, they do have leadership with Derek Fisher through the bench, but he can only help so much. Whereas everyone on the Heat has some Finals experience, as they return basically everyone from last season's trip to the Finals. This will be a very exciting series, but go with the Thunder to win it all.
Pick: Thunder in 6.
Pick: Thunder in 6.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Stanley Cup Final Preview
Well, I am late in doing this blog, I know, seeing as it is being posted right before the start of game number one. This is not the match up the NHL had in mind when it saw the Conference Final match ups. But, it got at least one team it wanted in Los Angeles, seeing as how it is the second biggest market in the league. Of course, New York is tops. Granted, New Jersey does play in Newark, which is in the New York metropolitan market. But, the Devils don't have the same name cache as the New York Rangers do, with whom they dispatched in six games in the Eastern Conference Finals. Now, the Devils are also an older team, with having played 100 games already this season, with the postseason and the regular season combined. Plus, they have an old goalie in Marty Brodeur, but Brodeur has played lights out this postseason. Then, the Kings have played even more lights out. They have essentially been playing playoff hockey since the middle of February, as they were way out of the playoff race, then have stormed back and made the playoffs as the eight seed in the West. The Kings then had to face in consecutive rounds, the top 3 seeds in the Western Conference, due to the NHL's quirky playoff bracket system.
And, the NHL's bracket system in the playoffs is fairly simple, as instead of have the 1/8 match up facing the winner of the 4/5 match up, it just goes as follows: the lowest seeded team remaining faces the highest remaining seed remaining. And next highest faces next lowest seed. So, that is how the Kings have faced the number one seed and runner up to the President's Trophy Vancouver Canucks in the first round. Then the surprising St. Louis Blues in the second round, and the equally surprising Phoenix Coyotes in the conference final round. The Devils had a tougher road many would argue. As they had a relatively easy match up in the first round with the weakest division champion in the Florida Panthers, who really gave them a fight in the first round, going the entire seven games. New Jersey then had to face Atlantic Division foes in the next two rounds, dueling the hated Flyers and Rangers.
Now, I'm going with the Kings here because of three reasons. The first being that they have been playing essentially playoff hockey since the middle of February, and they've only had to go two over the minimum as far as games played in the playoffs. The second, is because I hate the Devils. Who wants to root for a team name which is rooting for evil? Finally, the Kings have two prominent former Flyers in the former captain, Mike Richards as well as his linemate in Philly Jeff Carter, and that synergy has helped plenty in the playoffs. Plus, you always go with the hottest goaltender in the Stanley Cup Final, and that goalie is Jonathan Quick, who happened to come through Reading, PA in his journey to the big time in Los Angeles.
Pick: Kings in 6.
P.S., the NBA will wait until the conference finals are over, and I will just preview the NBA Finals.
And, the NHL's bracket system in the playoffs is fairly simple, as instead of have the 1/8 match up facing the winner of the 4/5 match up, it just goes as follows: the lowest seeded team remaining faces the highest remaining seed remaining. And next highest faces next lowest seed. So, that is how the Kings have faced the number one seed and runner up to the President's Trophy Vancouver Canucks in the first round. Then the surprising St. Louis Blues in the second round, and the equally surprising Phoenix Coyotes in the conference final round. The Devils had a tougher road many would argue. As they had a relatively easy match up in the first round with the weakest division champion in the Florida Panthers, who really gave them a fight in the first round, going the entire seven games. New Jersey then had to face Atlantic Division foes in the next two rounds, dueling the hated Flyers and Rangers.
Now, I'm going with the Kings here because of three reasons. The first being that they have been playing essentially playoff hockey since the middle of February, and they've only had to go two over the minimum as far as games played in the playoffs. The second, is because I hate the Devils. Who wants to root for a team name which is rooting for evil? Finally, the Kings have two prominent former Flyers in the former captain, Mike Richards as well as his linemate in Philly Jeff Carter, and that synergy has helped plenty in the playoffs. Plus, you always go with the hottest goaltender in the Stanley Cup Final, and that goalie is Jonathan Quick, who happened to come through Reading, PA in his journey to the big time in Los Angeles.
Pick: Kings in 6.
P.S., the NBA will wait until the conference finals are over, and I will just preview the NBA Finals.
Monday, May 14, 2012
NHL Eastern Conference Finals Preview and NBA Western Conference Semifinals Preview
First, allow me to start off with the NHL, and the Eastern Conference Finals. The Eastern Conference playoffs have had one Atlantic division clash in every round, and in this round it is no different. The New York market is represented here in abundance, with two of the three teams around New York City playing in this series. It's also nice for everyone involved, as the two arenas are less than 12 miles apart. Now, in New York City traffic, it's still going to be two hours, but the distance is still nice. The two teams in the final are the New Jersey Devils who play in Newark, and the New York Rangers playing in the most famous arena in the world. Now, this is not the match up I predicted, but it is still an excellent one. Both teams have excellent goaltending with Martin Brodeur and Henrik Lundqvist representing the Devils and Rangers respectively. Brodeur has plenty of experience being in this situation, as he has led the Devils to three Stanley Cup titles since 1995, while Lundqvist is putting together his best playoff run of his career so far. Both teams also have some excellent defense to compliment their goaltending, and so the key will be on offense. Which team can get more pucks on net and allow more chances to happen. This is easy, the Rangers will. The Rangers will because they have many more pieces on offense than the Devils. They've got Brad Richards, Ryan Callahan, Marian Gaborik, and an excellent scoring defenseman in Michael Del Zotto. New Jersey has none of that. And, while New Jersey may be a little bit more rested than the Rangers, they too went seven games in their quarterfinal series against Florida, so they only have two less games played than the Rangers. Finally, tune into NBC Sports Network for all of the games. Game one was tonight, sorry I'm a little late. the games are every other day basically as well.
Pick: Rangers in 6.
Now, on to the NBA and the Western Conference Semifinals.
No. 1 San Antonio Spurs vs. No. 5 Los Angeles Clippers
This series is experience versus youth. San Antonio has been to the playoffs every season since 1998, which is the longest streak in the NBA. And, the Clips are full of youth and exuberance and have the most exciting player in the NBA in Blake Griffin. Now, Griffin is amazing, as his fellow co-star out in "Lob City" Chris Paul. But, the Spurs have been wonderful and since losing last season to the Grizzlies in seven games, the Spurs seem to be on a mission to win their fifth NBA title since 1999. And I'll take Gregg Poppovich as a coach any day who knows when to rest his players, take his timeouts and play a game in his head so well over Vinny Del Negro, who always seems to screw up somehow.
Pick: Spurs in 6.
No. 2 Oklahoma City Thunder vs. No. 3 Los Angeles Lakers
Now, for some unknown reason, none of these games are featured on the NBA's broadcast partner ABC. That makes zero sense in my mind because you have the second biggest market in the NBA, as well as a bonafide star in Kobe Bryant going up against perhaps the team with the most young stars in the league Oklahoma City. Anyway, I digress. Oklahoma City, as mentioned has a ton of youth, ranging from Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook to the NBA's sixth man of the year award winner in James Harden. The Thunder are a spectacular team and have fresh legs sweeping the defending champion Mavericks out in four games. Whereas the Lakers had a ton of trouble closing out the sixth seeded Nuggets and going to seven games there before prevailing. Plus, the Lakers are an older team, so sorry Kobe, no sixth title for you this year.
Pick: Thunder in 6.
Pick: Rangers in 6.
Now, on to the NBA and the Western Conference Semifinals.
No. 1 San Antonio Spurs vs. No. 5 Los Angeles Clippers
This series is experience versus youth. San Antonio has been to the playoffs every season since 1998, which is the longest streak in the NBA. And, the Clips are full of youth and exuberance and have the most exciting player in the NBA in Blake Griffin. Now, Griffin is amazing, as his fellow co-star out in "Lob City" Chris Paul. But, the Spurs have been wonderful and since losing last season to the Grizzlies in seven games, the Spurs seem to be on a mission to win their fifth NBA title since 1999. And I'll take Gregg Poppovich as a coach any day who knows when to rest his players, take his timeouts and play a game in his head so well over Vinny Del Negro, who always seems to screw up somehow.
Pick: Spurs in 6.
No. 2 Oklahoma City Thunder vs. No. 3 Los Angeles Lakers
Now, for some unknown reason, none of these games are featured on the NBA's broadcast partner ABC. That makes zero sense in my mind because you have the second biggest market in the NBA, as well as a bonafide star in Kobe Bryant going up against perhaps the team with the most young stars in the league Oklahoma City. Anyway, I digress. Oklahoma City, as mentioned has a ton of youth, ranging from Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook to the NBA's sixth man of the year award winner in James Harden. The Thunder are a spectacular team and have fresh legs sweeping the defending champion Mavericks out in four games. Whereas the Lakers had a ton of trouble closing out the sixth seeded Nuggets and going to seven games there before prevailing. Plus, the Lakers are an older team, so sorry Kobe, no sixth title for you this year.
Pick: Thunder in 6.
Saturday, May 12, 2012
NHL Western Conference Finals Preview!
This series starts on Mother's Day at 8 p.m. on the NBC Sports Network, and will continue every other night for the rest of the series. This will be a great match up. There are several storylines going into the series, and my friend Bryan Miller, who has been so great in explaining and previewing the series so far will do so again here. He will also preview the Western Conference team in the Stanley Cup Final. And, both of these teams are going for their first trip to the Stanley Cup Final since at least 1993, when the Kings made it. And, the Coyotes have never made it, even as the Winnipeg Jets. So, this should be a very fun series, and one where it will be fun to root for either team. Thanks again Bryan for writing this!
#3 Phoenix Coyotes Vs. #8 Los Angeles Kings
This matchup has a bunch of great story lines to go with it. Let's start with the big story line goaltending. Both teams have great goaltending. With LA you have Jonathan Quick. This year he had 35 wins and a league best 10 shutouts. His career shot into stardom a few years ago when he first started with the Reading Royals. Now he is the man that the Kings look to keep them in every game. Night in and night out he has made saves that make your jaw drop. On the other end will be Mike Smith for the Coyotes. This year he had 38 and wins and 8 shutouts. A year removed from being sent to the minor league from the Lightning and later sent to the Coyotes. He has pulled a complete turn around from last year. He has been the answer for the Coyotes when they have needed him. Making unbelievable saves or anything else that came his way. This series will be decided by goaltending the better goalie should win this series for his team. Another story line to watch out for is the role players. Each teams 3rd and 4th lines need to contribute in this series and help out the top 2 lines. It doesn't need to be in the form of scoring, but in chances and by putting pressure on the goalie and other teams defense. I believe that the Kings have the upper hand on talent, but talent doesn't always mean that you will win. Coyotes Captain Shane Doan has been the captain for many years and is one of the few left that played with the original Winnipeg Jets. His leadership is what has the Coyotes where they are today.
Prediction: #3 Phoenix Coyotes in 7 games. Reaching the Stanley Cup finals for the first time in team history.
#3 Phoenix Coyotes Vs. #8 Los Angeles Kings
This matchup has a bunch of great story lines to go with it. Let's start with the big story line goaltending. Both teams have great goaltending. With LA you have Jonathan Quick. This year he had 35 wins and a league best 10 shutouts. His career shot into stardom a few years ago when he first started with the Reading Royals. Now he is the man that the Kings look to keep them in every game. Night in and night out he has made saves that make your jaw drop. On the other end will be Mike Smith for the Coyotes. This year he had 38 and wins and 8 shutouts. A year removed from being sent to the minor league from the Lightning and later sent to the Coyotes. He has pulled a complete turn around from last year. He has been the answer for the Coyotes when they have needed him. Making unbelievable saves or anything else that came his way. This series will be decided by goaltending the better goalie should win this series for his team. Another story line to watch out for is the role players. Each teams 3rd and 4th lines need to contribute in this series and help out the top 2 lines. It doesn't need to be in the form of scoring, but in chances and by putting pressure on the goalie and other teams defense. I believe that the Kings have the upper hand on talent, but talent doesn't always mean that you will win. Coyotes Captain Shane Doan has been the captain for many years and is one of the few left that played with the original Winnipeg Jets. His leadership is what has the Coyotes where they are today.
Prediction: #3 Phoenix Coyotes in 7 games. Reaching the Stanley Cup finals for the first time in team history.
NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals preview.
The NBA Eastern conference playoffs in the first round flew by. Each series didn't last anymore than six games. And, the favored team won each series, except for the Bulls/Sixers series. And, Philadelphia only won that because Chicago's best two players went out with injuries. Derrick Rose went out in game one with a torn ACL, and then in game three, Joakim Noah went down with a severely sprained ankle. And, no team can overcome that. But, now on to the previews!
No. 8 Philadelphia 76ers vs. No. 4 Boston Celtics
This is a classic match up. But, the only team which is classic is Boston, as they still have the big three, and with them, they are a very formidable force. Plus, Boston has a top five point guard in Rajon Rondo, who plays with a reckless abandon that you like to see out of players. Boston plays a very tight defense much like Chicago, which will give the 76ers a lot of trouble. Plus, with Philadelphia's shooting woes, shooting less than 40% in the previous series, they will be hard pressed to advance beyond Boston. The only way Philly has a shot is if they play a very fast paced up and down type game.
Pick: Boston in 5.
No. 3 Indiana Pacers vs. No. 2 Miami Heat
Now with the Bulls out of the picture in the Eastern Conference, the Heat have a clear path essentially to the NBA Finals for the second consecutive year. The reason for that is because who in all reality expects the Pacers to take the Heat on and beat them in a seven game series? Nobody, not even those from Indianapolis. That's because the Heat have the MVP of the league in LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, and a big man in Chris Bosh. Granted, the Pacers have played very well throughout the season, but to stop a runaway freight train takes something more than the Pacers have.
Pick: Miami in a sweep.
No. 8 Philadelphia 76ers vs. No. 4 Boston Celtics
This is a classic match up. But, the only team which is classic is Boston, as they still have the big three, and with them, they are a very formidable force. Plus, Boston has a top five point guard in Rajon Rondo, who plays with a reckless abandon that you like to see out of players. Boston plays a very tight defense much like Chicago, which will give the 76ers a lot of trouble. Plus, with Philadelphia's shooting woes, shooting less than 40% in the previous series, they will be hard pressed to advance beyond Boston. The only way Philly has a shot is if they play a very fast paced up and down type game.
Pick: Boston in 5.
No. 3 Indiana Pacers vs. No. 2 Miami Heat
Now with the Bulls out of the picture in the Eastern Conference, the Heat have a clear path essentially to the NBA Finals for the second consecutive year. The reason for that is because who in all reality expects the Pacers to take the Heat on and beat them in a seven game series? Nobody, not even those from Indianapolis. That's because the Heat have the MVP of the league in LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, and a big man in Chris Bosh. Granted, the Pacers have played very well throughout the season, but to stop a runaway freight train takes something more than the Pacers have.
Pick: Miami in a sweep.
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