10 wins, not bad. I can do better though. I have myself to blame for that foolish pick of the Lions. The G-men's meltdown has put them on watch status and The Steelers??? Rest in pieces. Tuna and the Pokes get the Sunday Night Nod next week. I think that NBC will just rotate its games thru the glamourous places for the rest of the season. Any chance of a Steelers-Bengals New Years eve tilt in prime time is gone.
Only the Ravens-Bengals game is previewed here. The rest of the games will be reviewed on Friday.
Thursday November 30
Ravens @ Bengals
Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati 8:00 (NFL Network)
Favorite-Bengals by 3
Its A Fact-The Bengals shutout of Cleveland was their first since 1989, while the Ravens have had nine shutouts since 1996.
Both teams are fresh off of shutouts of divisional foes. The Bengals whitewash was more surprising, but the Bengals are still the team in more dire need of a win. The Ravens can clinch a playoff berth, the division title and a home playoff game with one fell swoop with a win. The Bengals offense is humming as of late and I doubt the Bengals will spot the Ravens a 14-0 lead four minutes in like they did in Baltimore. I may be warped thinking this, but I think the Ravens still don't take the Bengals seriously and never have despite the Bengals being respectable now. I think that might just bite them in the rear as the Bengals spurred on by a crazy home crowd and a chance to shine in prime time keep their playoff hopes very much alive.
Pick-Cincinnati
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Monday, November 27, 2006
Dantonio's Exit...
Well its of no surprise that Mark Dantonio left the coaching position at the University of Cincinnati to take the job at Michigan State. Dantonio was a coach at Michigan State from 1995-2000, You would think he would jump at the first opp he had. I mean really, Cincy is my alma mater and it pains me to see that even with the biggest crowd of the season watching Dantonio's charges beat then 9th ranked Rutgers on the 18th 30-11, Nippert Stadium wasn't sold out. They didn't even draw 30,000. (They drew 27,804, me being one) Cincinnati should be ashamed, they had a good coach who was committed to winning here and now the Bearcats football team goes back to square one. I'll comment more on that and other coaching changes soon.
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Ovah-rated!!!
Sooner or later you'll listen to me...
Sooner or later you'll realize that every now and occasion I'm not blowing my own horn...
Sooner or later you will realize that my hatred of Notre Dame (ok hatred is a bit extreme...how bout intense dislike) is based on fact and the sports medias fascination with an overrated team.
The BCS will still send the Irish to a BCS bowl to my chagrin. But after its 44-24 drubbing at the hands of USC, the talk of both Notre Dame deserving a title shot and Brady Quinn as a dark horse Heisman winner are out the door. Thankfully.
USC is now in line for a BCS title tilt with OSU, they have to beat archrival UCLA, a good but not terribly great team. The Trojans have to beat the Bruins in the Rose Bowl next Saturday and the game will be set. Despite the carpings of the SEC champ, USC will go.
Florida keeps on whining that they are in a tough conference and that it hampers their title shot. But my reasoning is, keep winning and no one can say anything to you. USC thrashed Arkansas 50-14 in Fayetteville in September so the Hogs can do nothing but nod dumbly after the got thumped by LSU. The winner of the SEC title game will play in the Sugar Bowl
Boise State is in the BCS mix, period. They won't sniff a shot at Ohio State but they will get their just due and the BCS wonks will say "See everyone has a shot." Yeah, but you better be perfect if your not in the power conferences. And even if you are, you better be a name team...
By the way, Miami (FL) fired Larry Coker after he went 59-15. Despite winning a national title in 2001 and getting the Canes to the title game the next year. Its a what have you done for me lately. The wild brawl against FIU, didn't help matters. Now the spec begins on who gets that job, Rutgers head man Greg Schiano is widely rumored to be the man the Canes are looking at, but he claims no interest. We shall see...
Sooner or later you'll realize that every now and occasion I'm not blowing my own horn...
Sooner or later you will realize that my hatred of Notre Dame (ok hatred is a bit extreme...how bout intense dislike) is based on fact and the sports medias fascination with an overrated team.
The BCS will still send the Irish to a BCS bowl to my chagrin. But after its 44-24 drubbing at the hands of USC, the talk of both Notre Dame deserving a title shot and Brady Quinn as a dark horse Heisman winner are out the door. Thankfully.
USC is now in line for a BCS title tilt with OSU, they have to beat archrival UCLA, a good but not terribly great team. The Trojans have to beat the Bruins in the Rose Bowl next Saturday and the game will be set. Despite the carpings of the SEC champ, USC will go.
Florida keeps on whining that they are in a tough conference and that it hampers their title shot. But my reasoning is, keep winning and no one can say anything to you. USC thrashed Arkansas 50-14 in Fayetteville in September so the Hogs can do nothing but nod dumbly after the got thumped by LSU. The winner of the SEC title game will play in the Sugar Bowl
Boise State is in the BCS mix, period. They won't sniff a shot at Ohio State but they will get their just due and the BCS wonks will say "See everyone has a shot." Yeah, but you better be perfect if your not in the power conferences. And even if you are, you better be a name team...
By the way, Miami (FL) fired Larry Coker after he went 59-15. Despite winning a national title in 2001 and getting the Canes to the title game the next year. Its a what have you done for me lately. The wild brawl against FIU, didn't help matters. Now the spec begins on who gets that job, Rutgers head man Greg Schiano is widely rumored to be the man the Canes are looking at, but he claims no interest. We shall see...
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Week 12 Picks
First of all, wishing you and yours a happy Thanksgiving. Make sure you give thanks for what you have, even if its a little bit of something. If you are alive to appreciate it, thats a good thing.
The Thanksgiving menu gets a bigger as there are now three games to enjoy. Detroit hosts the early game and Dallas gets the afternoon game like usual, Kansas City gets the night game. The Chiefs have been the turkey day opponent quite often and Chiefs Founder/Owner Lamar Hunt has long lobbied the NFL to host a game on Thanksgiving and now with the NFL Network plucking a few games to keep for its own broadcast, Hunts wishes can be aceded to. NFL network is gambling that Joe FootbalFan will carp long and loud about NFL network not being on most regular cable systems like Time Warner which your humble scribe has, but most cable systems refuse to pay the exoribanant price that NFL Network is charging for the right to broadcast its network. Me personally, I hate sattelite TV and refuse to get it. If that means I miss a few games, so be it. I had a much better week at 11-5, no thanks to the Texans who I've dropped to teams I despise (designated teams will only get picked as winners only grudgingly and I will find every reason to pick against them) The Broncos and Seahawks dropped games that should have been very winnable. Trying to improve on my numbers, my picks are submitted here for your review. The lines are for comparison purposes only and the Thanksgiving lines are courtesy of Yahoo.
Thursday, November 23
Dolphins (4-6) @ Lions (2-8)
Ford Field, Detroit 12:30 (CBS)
Favorite- Dolphins by 2.5
Its A Fact-The Lions have played at home on Thanksgiving every year since 1945
The Dolphins have suddenly pushed themselves back on the fringes of the playoff hunt. They face a Lions squad who has came apart (but then again when have they really come together???) The crazy thing is that the Lions for some reason play way over their heads on Turkey day. I just have that feeling that Joey Harrington has a nightmare return to the motor city. I'm probably going to hate myself for this pick
Pick-Detroit
Buccaneers (2-8) @ Cowboys (6-4)
Texas Stadium; Irving, TX-4:15 (FOX)
Favorite- Cowboys by 11
Just The Facts This is the Buccaneers first time playing on Thanksgiving, while the Cowboys have played on Thanksgiving continually since 1966 (missing only 1975 & 1977)
The Pokes are looking to make a late charge at the playoffs and given the wide open nature of the NFC anything is possible. The Bucs did what the Pokes couldn't, beat the Redskins. But the Pokes are playing better as of late and though every time I give Tuna a vote of confidence they tank. Here's hoping that doesn't happen.
Pick-Dallas
Broncos (7-3) @ Chiefs (6-4)
Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City-8:00 (NFL Network)
Favorite-Pick 'em
Its A Fact-The Chiefs are the first AFC team to host a Thanksgiving Day game.
The Broncos should be ashamed of themselves after blowing a double digit lead at home. The Chiefs look like they are back in stride again after a return to action by Trent Green. This is a super crucial game in the rugged AFC West and both need the win to keep up with the Chargers. Only because they are at home do the Chiefs get the nod.
Pick-Kansas City
Sunday, November 26
Cardinals (2-8) @ Vikings (4-6)
HHH Metrodome, Minneapolis-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Vikings by 6
Its A Fact Cards coach Denny Green is 2nd all time in Vikings coaching wins
The reeling Vikes were thinking playoffs three weeks ago and were facing a winnable stretch of games, but their puny offense has made that dream just that. The Cards are just happy to get off the long losing slide that they were on. The Cards find ways to lose, but then again so do the Vikes. Give the edge to the home squad...barely
Pick-Minnesota
Panthers (6-4) @ Redskins (3-7)
FedEx Field; Landover, MD- 1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Panthers by 4
Its A Fact
Jason Campbell cant catch a break, he gets his QB baptism against a tough Buccaneers defense and now he faces a defense in Carolina fresh off a shutout over a good offensive team in the Rams. It'll be a long day in the Fed.
Pick-Carolina
Bengals (5-5) @ Browns (3-7)
Browns Stadium, Cleveland-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Bengals by 3
Its A Fact-The all time series between these teams is tied at 33 wins apiece
The Bengals got a badly needed win in New Orleans and are still very much in the playoff hunt. This has all the making of a classic trap game, with a showdown against the division leading Ravens on the 30th, the Bengals may get caught looking past a dangerous Browns squad. I'm betting that the offense has woke from its season long slumber for good and should put plenty of points up.
Pick-Cincinnati
Texans (2-8) @ NY Jets (5-5)
The Meadowlands; East Rutherford, NJ-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite Jets by 5.5
Its A Fact The Jets have won both meetings between these teams.
The Jets offense after looking anemic against the Bears gets a chance to pick on the Texans young defense. The Texans are improving but going into Gotham and winning is still too tall an order.
Pick-New York Jets
Jaguars (6-4) @ Bills (4-6)
Ralph Wilson Stadium; Orchard Park, NY -1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Jags by 3
Its A Fact-The Jags became the fastest expansion team to win a playoff game by beating the Bills 30-27 in the 1996 playoffs.
The Jags are hanging around the fringes of the AFC playoff picture. Their tendency to fall asleep at the switch against winnable opponents come into play with against a Bills team that is the definition of inconsistent. I'm thinking the Jags will play down to the level of their opponent again, but win a tight one.
Pick-Jacksonville
Saints (6-4) @ Falcons (5-5)
Georgia Dome, Atlanta 1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Falcons by 3
Its A Fact-After a 5-1 start the Saints have lost three of their last four.
The suddenly reeling Saints have been giving up way too many points, and the Falcons have been losing too many winnable games. Michael Vick has not been playing very well as of late and even with being at home I think that Saints may have the formula to stop him.\
Pick-New Orleans
Steelers (4-6) @ Ravens (8-2)
M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Ravens by 3
Its A Fact
The Steelers are still yapping that they can make a playoff move. The Ravens are a win or two away from having a choke hold on the AFC North. The Ravens could wrap the division up with a win here and one in Cincinnati a week from Thursday. Knocking the Steelers out of division title contention would be extra incentive. Even without Ray Lewis the defense is still more than tough enough.
Pick-Baltimore
49ers (5-5) @ Rams (4-6)
Edward Jones Dome, St. Louis-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Rams by 5.5
Its A Fact
I thought it cute that Mike Nolan emulated his dad's natty sideline look. The Niners have been playing inspired as of late and are a surprise contender in the NFC West. On the other hand, the Rams are fading fast and have lost five straight. This game is a tight one to call, I keep thinking that the Rams will break out of their funk and I'm having a hard time believing that the Niners will continue to play over their heads like they have been. I'm gonna take a chance and say that the trends will continue at least for another week.
Pick-San Francisco
Raiders (2-8) @ Chargers (8-2)
Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego-4:05 (CBS)
Favorite-Chargers by 13
Its A Fact-The Raiders have the NFL's worst record since 2002
The Chargers have a high scoring offense and an defense that gives that offense plenty of chances to score. The Raiders while having a credible defense have no offense and against the Chargers who will light up a scoreboard that is a bad recipe. Also, the Raiders have shown no abilty to win outside of Oakland. Since the Chargers are unbeaten in San Diego, I see no reason that will change.
Pick-San Diego
Chicago (9-1) @ New England (7-3)
Gillette Stadium; Foxboro, MA-4:15 (FOX)
Favorite -Patriots by 3
Its A Fact Chicago beat New England in Super Bowl XX 46-10
Arguably the best matchup of the week, the Bears are getting their swagger back after a two week layover in the Jersey swamps, the Pats continue to teeter on the edge of falling back to the AFC East pack, but the redoubtable Tom Brady makes it look easy. I'll be interested to see how he deal with the hard charging Bears D. In a game that is too close to call, I don't think the Bears are ready, winning in Jersey ain't winning in Foxboro, thats a step up I dont think the Bears are ready to make.
Pick-New England
NY Giants (6-4) @ Titans (3-7)
LP Field, Nashville-4:15 (FOX)
Favorite-Giants by 3.5
Its A Fact-This is the Giants first trip to Nashville
The Giants are in first place in the NFC in spite of themselves. They looked abysmal against the Jags, and will have their hands full with an inproving Titans squad. If the G-Men can run the ball, they should have their way but then again who knows which Eli Manning will show up from week to week. I'm gambling that the one who manages to stay out of his teams way shows up.
Pick-New York Giants
Philadelphia (5-5) @ Indianapolis (9-1)
RCA Dome, Indianpolis-8:15 (NBC)
Favorite Colts by 9.5
Its A Fact-Peyton Manning has wins over every NFL team
NBC is kicking itself that they snatched this game instead of the more attractive Bears-Pats game. Pity poor Eagles fan, they lose Donovan McNabb to a devastating knee injury as he's having one of his best seasons and they face an angry Colts team knocked from the unbeaten ranks and without the unbeaten burden, the Colts suddenly look real tough.
Pick-Indianapolis
Monday, November 27
Packers (4-6) @ Seahawks (6-4)
Qwest Field, Seattle 8:30 (ESPN)
Favorite-Seahawks by 9.5
Its A Fact
The Pack are in a bad habit of catching teams at the absolute wrong time. They got the Pats after they dropped a stunner to the Jets, they get the Seahawks after they got upended in San Francisco. If Matt Hasselbeck comes back that makes it one more thing that could go wrong for the Pack. Since they had such a hard time with the Pats veteran defense what problems do the Seahawks rugged defense pose? Many.
Pick-Seattle
Last Week 11-5
Overall 95-65
The Thanksgiving menu gets a bigger as there are now three games to enjoy. Detroit hosts the early game and Dallas gets the afternoon game like usual, Kansas City gets the night game. The Chiefs have been the turkey day opponent quite often and Chiefs Founder/Owner Lamar Hunt has long lobbied the NFL to host a game on Thanksgiving and now with the NFL Network plucking a few games to keep for its own broadcast, Hunts wishes can be aceded to. NFL network is gambling that Joe FootbalFan will carp long and loud about NFL network not being on most regular cable systems like Time Warner which your humble scribe has, but most cable systems refuse to pay the exoribanant price that NFL Network is charging for the right to broadcast its network. Me personally, I hate sattelite TV and refuse to get it. If that means I miss a few games, so be it. I had a much better week at 11-5, no thanks to the Texans who I've dropped to teams I despise (designated teams will only get picked as winners only grudgingly and I will find every reason to pick against them) The Broncos and Seahawks dropped games that should have been very winnable. Trying to improve on my numbers, my picks are submitted here for your review. The lines are for comparison purposes only and the Thanksgiving lines are courtesy of Yahoo.
Thursday, November 23
Dolphins (4-6) @ Lions (2-8)
Ford Field, Detroit 12:30 (CBS)
Favorite- Dolphins by 2.5
Its A Fact-The Lions have played at home on Thanksgiving every year since 1945
The Dolphins have suddenly pushed themselves back on the fringes of the playoff hunt. They face a Lions squad who has came apart (but then again when have they really come together???) The crazy thing is that the Lions for some reason play way over their heads on Turkey day. I just have that feeling that Joey Harrington has a nightmare return to the motor city. I'm probably going to hate myself for this pick
Pick-Detroit
Buccaneers (2-8) @ Cowboys (6-4)
Texas Stadium; Irving, TX-4:15 (FOX)
Favorite- Cowboys by 11
Just The Facts This is the Buccaneers first time playing on Thanksgiving, while the Cowboys have played on Thanksgiving continually since 1966 (missing only 1975 & 1977)
The Pokes are looking to make a late charge at the playoffs and given the wide open nature of the NFC anything is possible. The Bucs did what the Pokes couldn't, beat the Redskins. But the Pokes are playing better as of late and though every time I give Tuna a vote of confidence they tank. Here's hoping that doesn't happen.
Pick-Dallas
Broncos (7-3) @ Chiefs (6-4)
Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City-8:00 (NFL Network)
Favorite-Pick 'em
Its A Fact-The Chiefs are the first AFC team to host a Thanksgiving Day game.
The Broncos should be ashamed of themselves after blowing a double digit lead at home. The Chiefs look like they are back in stride again after a return to action by Trent Green. This is a super crucial game in the rugged AFC West and both need the win to keep up with the Chargers. Only because they are at home do the Chiefs get the nod.
Pick-Kansas City
Sunday, November 26
Cardinals (2-8) @ Vikings (4-6)
HHH Metrodome, Minneapolis-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Vikings by 6
Its A Fact Cards coach Denny Green is 2nd all time in Vikings coaching wins
The reeling Vikes were thinking playoffs three weeks ago and were facing a winnable stretch of games, but their puny offense has made that dream just that. The Cards are just happy to get off the long losing slide that they were on. The Cards find ways to lose, but then again so do the Vikes. Give the edge to the home squad...barely
Pick-Minnesota
Panthers (6-4) @ Redskins (3-7)
FedEx Field; Landover, MD- 1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Panthers by 4
Its A Fact
Jason Campbell cant catch a break, he gets his QB baptism against a tough Buccaneers defense and now he faces a defense in Carolina fresh off a shutout over a good offensive team in the Rams. It'll be a long day in the Fed.
Pick-Carolina
Bengals (5-5) @ Browns (3-7)
Browns Stadium, Cleveland-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Bengals by 3
Its A Fact-The all time series between these teams is tied at 33 wins apiece
The Bengals got a badly needed win in New Orleans and are still very much in the playoff hunt. This has all the making of a classic trap game, with a showdown against the division leading Ravens on the 30th, the Bengals may get caught looking past a dangerous Browns squad. I'm betting that the offense has woke from its season long slumber for good and should put plenty of points up.
Pick-Cincinnati
Texans (2-8) @ NY Jets (5-5)
The Meadowlands; East Rutherford, NJ-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite Jets by 5.5
Its A Fact The Jets have won both meetings between these teams.
The Jets offense after looking anemic against the Bears gets a chance to pick on the Texans young defense. The Texans are improving but going into Gotham and winning is still too tall an order.
Pick-New York Jets
Jaguars (6-4) @ Bills (4-6)
Ralph Wilson Stadium; Orchard Park, NY -1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Jags by 3
Its A Fact-The Jags became the fastest expansion team to win a playoff game by beating the Bills 30-27 in the 1996 playoffs.
The Jags are hanging around the fringes of the AFC playoff picture. Their tendency to fall asleep at the switch against winnable opponents come into play with against a Bills team that is the definition of inconsistent. I'm thinking the Jags will play down to the level of their opponent again, but win a tight one.
Pick-Jacksonville
Saints (6-4) @ Falcons (5-5)
Georgia Dome, Atlanta 1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Falcons by 3
Its A Fact-After a 5-1 start the Saints have lost three of their last four.
The suddenly reeling Saints have been giving up way too many points, and the Falcons have been losing too many winnable games. Michael Vick has not been playing very well as of late and even with being at home I think that Saints may have the formula to stop him.\
Pick-New Orleans
Steelers (4-6) @ Ravens (8-2)
M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Ravens by 3
Its A Fact
The Steelers are still yapping that they can make a playoff move. The Ravens are a win or two away from having a choke hold on the AFC North. The Ravens could wrap the division up with a win here and one in Cincinnati a week from Thursday. Knocking the Steelers out of division title contention would be extra incentive. Even without Ray Lewis the defense is still more than tough enough.
Pick-Baltimore
49ers (5-5) @ Rams (4-6)
Edward Jones Dome, St. Louis-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Rams by 5.5
Its A Fact
I thought it cute that Mike Nolan emulated his dad's natty sideline look. The Niners have been playing inspired as of late and are a surprise contender in the NFC West. On the other hand, the Rams are fading fast and have lost five straight. This game is a tight one to call, I keep thinking that the Rams will break out of their funk and I'm having a hard time believing that the Niners will continue to play over their heads like they have been. I'm gonna take a chance and say that the trends will continue at least for another week.
Pick-San Francisco
Raiders (2-8) @ Chargers (8-2)
Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego-4:05 (CBS)
Favorite-Chargers by 13
Its A Fact-The Raiders have the NFL's worst record since 2002
The Chargers have a high scoring offense and an defense that gives that offense plenty of chances to score. The Raiders while having a credible defense have no offense and against the Chargers who will light up a scoreboard that is a bad recipe. Also, the Raiders have shown no abilty to win outside of Oakland. Since the Chargers are unbeaten in San Diego, I see no reason that will change.
Pick-San Diego
Chicago (9-1) @ New England (7-3)
Gillette Stadium; Foxboro, MA-4:15 (FOX)
Favorite -Patriots by 3
Its A Fact Chicago beat New England in Super Bowl XX 46-10
Arguably the best matchup of the week, the Bears are getting their swagger back after a two week layover in the Jersey swamps, the Pats continue to teeter on the edge of falling back to the AFC East pack, but the redoubtable Tom Brady makes it look easy. I'll be interested to see how he deal with the hard charging Bears D. In a game that is too close to call, I don't think the Bears are ready, winning in Jersey ain't winning in Foxboro, thats a step up I dont think the Bears are ready to make.
Pick-New England
NY Giants (6-4) @ Titans (3-7)
LP Field, Nashville-4:15 (FOX)
Favorite-Giants by 3.5
Its A Fact-This is the Giants first trip to Nashville
The Giants are in first place in the NFC in spite of themselves. They looked abysmal against the Jags, and will have their hands full with an inproving Titans squad. If the G-Men can run the ball, they should have their way but then again who knows which Eli Manning will show up from week to week. I'm gambling that the one who manages to stay out of his teams way shows up.
Pick-New York Giants
Philadelphia (5-5) @ Indianapolis (9-1)
RCA Dome, Indianpolis-8:15 (NBC)
Favorite Colts by 9.5
Its A Fact-Peyton Manning has wins over every NFL team
NBC is kicking itself that they snatched this game instead of the more attractive Bears-Pats game. Pity poor Eagles fan, they lose Donovan McNabb to a devastating knee injury as he's having one of his best seasons and they face an angry Colts team knocked from the unbeaten ranks and without the unbeaten burden, the Colts suddenly look real tough.
Pick-Indianapolis
Monday, November 27
Packers (4-6) @ Seahawks (6-4)
Qwest Field, Seattle 8:30 (ESPN)
Favorite-Seahawks by 9.5
Its A Fact
The Pack are in a bad habit of catching teams at the absolute wrong time. They got the Pats after they dropped a stunner to the Jets, they get the Seahawks after they got upended in San Francisco. If Matt Hasselbeck comes back that makes it one more thing that could go wrong for the Pack. Since they had such a hard time with the Pats veteran defense what problems do the Seahawks rugged defense pose? Many.
Pick-Seattle
Last Week 11-5
Overall 95-65
Sunday, November 19, 2006
One for the ages.
I've said it before and I'll say it again. I'm a Michigan football fan and it pains me to no end to give props to Ohio State, the Wolverines bitter hated rival but I will. Ohio State won 42-39 yesterday and have all but clinched a berth in the BCS title game January 8th. Michigan will likely play in the Rose Bowl on New Years Day. I've heard talk that it could be Cal that they play but we'll get into bowl spec at a later date. But what I want to establish is this:
Stop the talk of Michigan getting a rematch. If the Wolverines win, there will be whining and carping from Buckeye Nation. And why should OSU have to beat a team twice to be nationalchamps? It makes no sense.
Notre Dame should not talk about being in championship contention until they beat USC, no given since the game is in LA. USC, still has to beat the Irish and neighborhood rival UCLA before they entertain talk of a national championship berth.
Rutgers got bounced from any BCS title talk and they still aren't assured of a BCS bowl game as they still have to beat Syracuse in their home finale and beat West Virginia in what looks to be a de facto Big East championship. But after the Knights 30-11 loss to Cincinnati (of whom I'm a proud alum!!!) their title hopes are done.
I'll do more analysis of the OSU-Michigan game in a later post and my picks will be posted this week on Wednesday and I'll prevue and pick the Thursday game on the following Wednesday with the other picks to follow on Friday.
Stop the talk of Michigan getting a rematch. If the Wolverines win, there will be whining and carping from Buckeye Nation. And why should OSU have to beat a team twice to be nationalchamps? It makes no sense.
Notre Dame should not talk about being in championship contention until they beat USC, no given since the game is in LA. USC, still has to beat the Irish and neighborhood rival UCLA before they entertain talk of a national championship berth.
Rutgers got bounced from any BCS title talk and they still aren't assured of a BCS bowl game as they still have to beat Syracuse in their home finale and beat West Virginia in what looks to be a de facto Big East championship. But after the Knights 30-11 loss to Cincinnati (of whom I'm a proud alum!!!) their title hopes are done.
I'll do more analysis of the OSU-Michigan game in a later post and my picks will be posted this week on Wednesday and I'll prevue and pick the Thursday game on the following Wednesday with the other picks to follow on Friday.
Friday, November 17, 2006
Wolverine Legend passes on
It was something that I saw out of the corner of my eye at work and it was so shocking it demanded a second then third look. I read it and had the same reaction that my boss had when I told him... No way.
The sad news that former Michigan football coach Bo Schembechler had collapsed and later died on Friday at the age of 77 was sobering news on the eve of the Wolverines-Buckeyes showdown in Columbus saturday. The fact that this is 1 vs 2 with the winner all but guaranteed a slot in the BCS championship in January. This loss affects both schools as Schembechler was an assistant to Buckeye coaching giant Woody Hayes from 1958-1963. Schembechler and Hayes became archrivals after the former became the head coach at Michigan in 1969. Both schools while deadly rivals, share the same loss as the hard nosed Schembechler was the epitome of coaching toughness and class that both schools share and admire about each other but would never admit openly. Its a painful loss, I hope that whoever wins exudes the class and integrity in victory and defeat that Schembechler was a symbol of.
The sad news that former Michigan football coach Bo Schembechler had collapsed and later died on Friday at the age of 77 was sobering news on the eve of the Wolverines-Buckeyes showdown in Columbus saturday. The fact that this is 1 vs 2 with the winner all but guaranteed a slot in the BCS championship in January. This loss affects both schools as Schembechler was an assistant to Buckeye coaching giant Woody Hayes from 1958-1963. Schembechler and Hayes became archrivals after the former became the head coach at Michigan in 1969. Both schools while deadly rivals, share the same loss as the hard nosed Schembechler was the epitome of coaching toughness and class that both schools share and admire about each other but would never admit openly. Its a painful loss, I hope that whoever wins exudes the class and integrity in victory and defeat that Schembechler was a symbol of.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
NFL Week 11 Picks
Mama said there would be days (or in this case) weeks like that. Anything that would go wrong, would any upset that I thought would happen didn't the upsets I didn't dream of hit me upside the head. The result was a disastorous 6-10 week that pulls me even further closer to .500. Your humble scribe will attempt to get the ship right this week.
NFL SCHEDULE – WEEK 11
Sunday, November 19
Falcons (5-4) @ Ravens (7-2)
M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Ravens by 4
Just The Facts- This is the Falcons first trip to Baltimore to play the Ravens, the Falcons have not played in Baltimore since losing to the Colts 13-6 in 1969,
The Ravens have suddenly become one of the elite teams in the AFC, while the Falcons have dropped two very winnable games. The Falcons have gotten away from the formula that won them five of their first seven. Letting Michael Vick be creative, the Ravens disciplined defense will make that sort of creativity very hard. The Ravens have a worakble enough offense to give the Falcons increasingly suspect secondary a hard way to go. If the Falcons had trouble containing Kellen "The Soldier" Winslow last week, they'll have a whale of a time containing Todd Heap
Pick-Baltimore
Bills (3-6) @ Texans (3-6)
Reliant Stadium, Houston-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite Texans by 2
Its A Fact- The Texans have a two game winning streak.
You read the line right, the Texans are favored in this game and with good reason. Their young defense is quietly shedding its pushover status. With Bills RB Willis McGahee out with bum ribs, the load falls on Anthony Thomas and more importantly JP Losman who is fast running out of chances to prove that he can be the QB answer. Look for the Texans to do something that they aren't used to doing: being the bully.
Pick-Houston
Chicago (8-1) @ NY Jets (5-4)
The Meadowlands; East Rutherford, NJ-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite -Bears by 6.5
Its A Fact- The Bears lead the series 5-3
The Bears continue their stay in New York facing a spry Jets team that shocked the Patriots in Foxboro. The Bears looked to be going soft after their stunning upset loss to the Dolphins two weeks ago but shrugged it off by thumping the G-Men. The Bears can pick on the Jets weak run defense and as long as Rex Grossman isn't needed to be heroic the Bears will have their way.
Pick-Chicago
Bengals (4-5) @ Saints (6-3)
Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans -1:00 CBS
Favorite-Saints by 1.5
Its A Fact- The Series is ties at 5 wins apiece, this is the Bengals first visit to New Orleans since 1993 when they lost 20-13.
The Bengals are reeling after imploding against the Chargers last week, if the Bengals can control the clock by utilizing Rudi Johnson more. They might be able to steal the game. Drew Brees has flourished in the Big Easy and if Reggie Bush is allowed to wreak havoc, look out. In a game too close to call. I'll go against my better judgement and give the nod to the team who is more desperate.
Pick-Cincinnati
Vikings (4-5) @ Dolphins (3-6)
Dolphins Stadium, Miami1:00 FOX
Favorite
Its A Fact- The Vikinigs have a six game losing streak to AFC teams
What was supposed to be the Culpepper Bowl is now a battle of two of the more disappointing teams in the NFL. The Dolphins are sporting a two game winning streak and have found an offense to compliment their fine defense. Who knows what Vikings squad will show up. I hope I'm wrong here, but the Vikings have given me no reason to believe that they are capable offensively and the Dolphins don't need to score much to win.
Pick-Miami
Patriots (6-3) @ Packers (4-5)
Lambeau Field, Green Bay-1:00 CBS
Favorite-Patriots by 6
Its A Fact- This is the Patriots third trip to Wisconsin, having lost both meetings to the Pack, once in Milwaukee and once in Green Bay.
The Packers are dreaming of playoff contention after their win over the Vikings gave them three wins in their last four. The Pats are plenty sore after their upset loss to the Jets. The Pack should get no ideas about an upset. The Pats have more than enough to outgun the Pack. Fans of the game should sit back and enjoy this shootout between the NFL's best gunslingers in Brady and Favre.
Pick-New England
Raiders (2-7) @ Chiefs (5-4)
Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City-1:00 CBS
Favorite-Chiefs by 9.5
Its A Fact- The Chiefs have won six in a row vs the Raiders.
The Raiders are going back into their shell after a pair of puny offensive showings. The Chiefs are the NFL"s most puzzling team. Just when you think that they are rolling they trip over themselves. The Raiders will be a welcome tonic. The last thing a team that is 0-4 on the road needs is to go into a place like Arrowhead.
Pick-Kansas City (Lock of the Week)
Steelers (3-6) @ Browns (3-6)
Browns Stadium, Cleveland-1:00 CBS
Favorite-Steelers by 3.5
Its A Fact- The Browns actually lead this series 55-52
Both teams are coming off impressive victories, but the Steelers are showing much more offensive firepower and against a notoriously weak Browns secondary. Big Ben should have a good day. The Browns need to force turnovers to have a chance. I can't see that happening.
Pick-Pittsburgh
Rams (4-5) @ Panthers (5-4)
Bank Of America Stadium, Charlotte-1:00 FOX
Favorite-Panthers by 6
Its A Fact- The Panthers have won these teams only two meetings since the 2002 realignment
The Rams are on a shocking slide, having lost four in row after starting 4-1. Losing behemoth T Orlando Pace for the season, hurts immensely and facing a stingy Panthers defense is not what the doctor ordered. The Panthers are trying to stay in the playoff hunt and the Rams will only be a speed bump.
Pick-Carolina
Titans (2-7) @ Eagles (5-4)
Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia 1:00 CBS
Favorite-Eagles by 12.5
Its A Fact- The Titans have won the previous two meetings, their first wins against the Eagles alltime.
The Eagles have shook their midseason fog off and are still very much in the playoff race. A winnable home game is on the docket. Can Vince Young and company roll in Philly and spring an upset? Don't get it twisted.
Pick-Philadelphia
Redskins (3-6) @ Buccaneers (2-7)
Raymond James Stadium, Tampa-1:00 FOX
Favorite-Buccaneers by 2.5
Its A Fact- The Redskins have lost in five of their six trips to Tampa, but the one win was a 17-10 playoff win.
The Skins are a mess and Jason Campbell is finally getting to take the reins. The Bucs may have a sad sack offense but their defense is still tough as nails and a first time starter is fresh meat.
Pick-Tampa Bay
Lions (2-7) @ Cardinals (1-8)
University of Phoenix Stadium; Chandler, AZ-4:05 FOX
Favorite-Cardinals by 2
Its A Fact- The Lions have won the last three matchups.
Its the snoozer bowl! The two most pathetic teams in the NFL meet for the right to not be named the team that officially sucks. Both teams have burned me when I pick them. Flip a coin and take the home team.
Pick-Arizona
Seahawks (6-3) @ 49ers (4-5)
Monster Park, San Francisco-4:05 FOX
Favorite-No Line
Its A Fact- The Seahaws have won the last six meetings
The Seahawks are asserting their control of the NFC West and while the Niners are showing improvement over last year. They are nowhere near able to keep up with Seahawks with or without Alexander and Hasselbeck.
Pick-Seattle
Colts (9-0) @ Cowboys (5-4)
Texas Stadium; Irving, TX-4:15 CBS
Favorite-Colts by 1
Its A Fact- One of three Super Bowl rematches this week, (Dolphins-Vikings, Packers-Patriots)
Everyone and their brother is talking an upset here that Tuna and the Pokes will have something for the Colts. I am not one of those that think that way. Though the Pokes can and will exploit the Colts soft run defense. Sooner or later Peyton Manning gets his crack at the Pokes woeful defense. Who are you going to take in a shootout Manning or Tony Romo??? I thought so.
Pick-Indianapolis
Chargers (7-2) @ Broncos (7-2)
Invesco Field @ Mile High, Denver-8:15 NBC
Favorite Broncos by 3
Its A Fact- The Broncos have won the last six meetings in Denver
The Chargers came from light years back to beat the Bengals. But should they fall behind by 21 in Denver, forget it. The Broncos won't score 41, they won't need to. As long as Jake Plummer knows his role and lets the Broncos punishing D do the talking. The Broncos carry the day, LT and Philip Rivers would like to get into a shootout like they had last week or the Broncos had in a loss vs the Colts three weeks ago. I'm seeing the D coming on in prime time
Pick-Denver
Monday, November 20
NY Giants (6-3) @ Jaguars (5-4)
Alltel Stadium, Jacksonville-8:30 ESPN
Favorite- Jaguars by 3.5
Its A Fact-This is the Giants second ever trip to Jacksonville, losing 40-13 in 1997
With the Giants missing Amani Toomer and Plaxico Burress not looking llike he can carry the load, the pressure falls on RB Tiki Barber who despite his league leading rushing total will still put pressure on the Giants young middle linebacking corp. The G-men have a bad tendency to start slow. If the Jags get rolling in front of a pumped home crowd, things can and will go downhill in a hurry. The Jags aren't flashy but they can get the job done.
Pick-Jacksonville
Last Week: 6-10
Overall: 84-60
NFL SCHEDULE – WEEK 11
Sunday, November 19
Falcons (5-4) @ Ravens (7-2)
M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Ravens by 4
Just The Facts- This is the Falcons first trip to Baltimore to play the Ravens, the Falcons have not played in Baltimore since losing to the Colts 13-6 in 1969,
The Ravens have suddenly become one of the elite teams in the AFC, while the Falcons have dropped two very winnable games. The Falcons have gotten away from the formula that won them five of their first seven. Letting Michael Vick be creative, the Ravens disciplined defense will make that sort of creativity very hard. The Ravens have a worakble enough offense to give the Falcons increasingly suspect secondary a hard way to go. If the Falcons had trouble containing Kellen "The Soldier" Winslow last week, they'll have a whale of a time containing Todd Heap
Pick-Baltimore
Bills (3-6) @ Texans (3-6)
Reliant Stadium, Houston-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite Texans by 2
Its A Fact- The Texans have a two game winning streak.
You read the line right, the Texans are favored in this game and with good reason. Their young defense is quietly shedding its pushover status. With Bills RB Willis McGahee out with bum ribs, the load falls on Anthony Thomas and more importantly JP Losman who is fast running out of chances to prove that he can be the QB answer. Look for the Texans to do something that they aren't used to doing: being the bully.
Pick-Houston
Chicago (8-1) @ NY Jets (5-4)
The Meadowlands; East Rutherford, NJ-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite -Bears by 6.5
Its A Fact- The Bears lead the series 5-3
The Bears continue their stay in New York facing a spry Jets team that shocked the Patriots in Foxboro. The Bears looked to be going soft after their stunning upset loss to the Dolphins two weeks ago but shrugged it off by thumping the G-Men. The Bears can pick on the Jets weak run defense and as long as Rex Grossman isn't needed to be heroic the Bears will have their way.
Pick-Chicago
Bengals (4-5) @ Saints (6-3)
Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans -1:00 CBS
Favorite-Saints by 1.5
Its A Fact- The Series is ties at 5 wins apiece, this is the Bengals first visit to New Orleans since 1993 when they lost 20-13.
The Bengals are reeling after imploding against the Chargers last week, if the Bengals can control the clock by utilizing Rudi Johnson more. They might be able to steal the game. Drew Brees has flourished in the Big Easy and if Reggie Bush is allowed to wreak havoc, look out. In a game too close to call. I'll go against my better judgement and give the nod to the team who is more desperate.
Pick-Cincinnati
Vikings (4-5) @ Dolphins (3-6)
Dolphins Stadium, Miami1:00 FOX
Favorite
Its A Fact- The Vikinigs have a six game losing streak to AFC teams
What was supposed to be the Culpepper Bowl is now a battle of two of the more disappointing teams in the NFL. The Dolphins are sporting a two game winning streak and have found an offense to compliment their fine defense. Who knows what Vikings squad will show up. I hope I'm wrong here, but the Vikings have given me no reason to believe that they are capable offensively and the Dolphins don't need to score much to win.
Pick-Miami
Patriots (6-3) @ Packers (4-5)
Lambeau Field, Green Bay-1:00 CBS
Favorite-Patriots by 6
Its A Fact- This is the Patriots third trip to Wisconsin, having lost both meetings to the Pack, once in Milwaukee and once in Green Bay.
The Packers are dreaming of playoff contention after their win over the Vikings gave them three wins in their last four. The Pats are plenty sore after their upset loss to the Jets. The Pack should get no ideas about an upset. The Pats have more than enough to outgun the Pack. Fans of the game should sit back and enjoy this shootout between the NFL's best gunslingers in Brady and Favre.
Pick-New England
Raiders (2-7) @ Chiefs (5-4)
Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City-1:00 CBS
Favorite-Chiefs by 9.5
Its A Fact- The Chiefs have won six in a row vs the Raiders.
The Raiders are going back into their shell after a pair of puny offensive showings. The Chiefs are the NFL"s most puzzling team. Just when you think that they are rolling they trip over themselves. The Raiders will be a welcome tonic. The last thing a team that is 0-4 on the road needs is to go into a place like Arrowhead.
Pick-Kansas City (Lock of the Week)
Steelers (3-6) @ Browns (3-6)
Browns Stadium, Cleveland-1:00 CBS
Favorite-Steelers by 3.5
Its A Fact- The Browns actually lead this series 55-52
Both teams are coming off impressive victories, but the Steelers are showing much more offensive firepower and against a notoriously weak Browns secondary. Big Ben should have a good day. The Browns need to force turnovers to have a chance. I can't see that happening.
Pick-Pittsburgh
Rams (4-5) @ Panthers (5-4)
Bank Of America Stadium, Charlotte-1:00 FOX
Favorite-Panthers by 6
Its A Fact- The Panthers have won these teams only two meetings since the 2002 realignment
The Rams are on a shocking slide, having lost four in row after starting 4-1. Losing behemoth T Orlando Pace for the season, hurts immensely and facing a stingy Panthers defense is not what the doctor ordered. The Panthers are trying to stay in the playoff hunt and the Rams will only be a speed bump.
Pick-Carolina
Titans (2-7) @ Eagles (5-4)
Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia 1:00 CBS
Favorite-Eagles by 12.5
Its A Fact- The Titans have won the previous two meetings, their first wins against the Eagles alltime.
The Eagles have shook their midseason fog off and are still very much in the playoff race. A winnable home game is on the docket. Can Vince Young and company roll in Philly and spring an upset? Don't get it twisted.
Pick-Philadelphia
Redskins (3-6) @ Buccaneers (2-7)
Raymond James Stadium, Tampa-1:00 FOX
Favorite-Buccaneers by 2.5
Its A Fact- The Redskins have lost in five of their six trips to Tampa, but the one win was a 17-10 playoff win.
The Skins are a mess and Jason Campbell is finally getting to take the reins. The Bucs may have a sad sack offense but their defense is still tough as nails and a first time starter is fresh meat.
Pick-Tampa Bay
Lions (2-7) @ Cardinals (1-8)
University of Phoenix Stadium; Chandler, AZ-4:05 FOX
Favorite-Cardinals by 2
Its A Fact- The Lions have won the last three matchups.
Its the snoozer bowl! The two most pathetic teams in the NFL meet for the right to not be named the team that officially sucks. Both teams have burned me when I pick them. Flip a coin and take the home team.
Pick-Arizona
Seahawks (6-3) @ 49ers (4-5)
Monster Park, San Francisco-4:05 FOX
Favorite-No Line
Its A Fact- The Seahaws have won the last six meetings
The Seahawks are asserting their control of the NFC West and while the Niners are showing improvement over last year. They are nowhere near able to keep up with Seahawks with or without Alexander and Hasselbeck.
Pick-Seattle
Colts (9-0) @ Cowboys (5-4)
Texas Stadium; Irving, TX-4:15 CBS
Favorite-Colts by 1
Its A Fact- One of three Super Bowl rematches this week, (Dolphins-Vikings, Packers-Patriots)
Everyone and their brother is talking an upset here that Tuna and the Pokes will have something for the Colts. I am not one of those that think that way. Though the Pokes can and will exploit the Colts soft run defense. Sooner or later Peyton Manning gets his crack at the Pokes woeful defense. Who are you going to take in a shootout Manning or Tony Romo??? I thought so.
Pick-Indianapolis
Chargers (7-2) @ Broncos (7-2)
Invesco Field @ Mile High, Denver-8:15 NBC
Favorite Broncos by 3
Its A Fact- The Broncos have won the last six meetings in Denver
The Chargers came from light years back to beat the Bengals. But should they fall behind by 21 in Denver, forget it. The Broncos won't score 41, they won't need to. As long as Jake Plummer knows his role and lets the Broncos punishing D do the talking. The Broncos carry the day, LT and Philip Rivers would like to get into a shootout like they had last week or the Broncos had in a loss vs the Colts three weeks ago. I'm seeing the D coming on in prime time
Pick-Denver
Monday, November 20
NY Giants (6-3) @ Jaguars (5-4)
Alltel Stadium, Jacksonville-8:30 ESPN
Favorite- Jaguars by 3.5
Its A Fact-This is the Giants second ever trip to Jacksonville, losing 40-13 in 1997
With the Giants missing Amani Toomer and Plaxico Burress not looking llike he can carry the load, the pressure falls on RB Tiki Barber who despite his league leading rushing total will still put pressure on the Giants young middle linebacking corp. The G-men have a bad tendency to start slow. If the Jags get rolling in front of a pumped home crowd, things can and will go downhill in a hurry. The Jags aren't flashy but they can get the job done.
Pick-Jacksonville
Last Week: 6-10
Overall: 84-60
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
More BCS Madness and other musings
First and foremost. Let me say this. I'm more or less pleased with the way the BCS standings are this week. (Except for Notre Dame who thinks that they are title worthy) Before anyone puts Rutgers in the title game they still have to win roadies at Cincinnati and West Virginia. In any case there still are way too many games to be played and the Michigan-Ohio State game will only solve half of the equasion.
Which brings me to another point. All this talk about there should just be a rematch of these two great teams in Glendale come January should stop, right now. I am a big Michigan fan, but if Ohio State wins. I'll grudgingly tip my hat to the Buckeyes and root for the Wolverines to win their BCS bowl game. They won't fall far enough to miss out on that one. But there shouldn't be a rematch.
Why? It greatly diminished the value of this high stakes game. The stakes have not been higher for this game in recent memory. There have been times recently where one or the other have been in a place to make a championship run and have had to clear this game to play for a national title. But there has n't been a time where one or the other isn't the foil or spoiler. Its 1 vs 2. The big game before the big game. Many pundits lament that there are too many one loss teams and naming a worthy one to play the OSU-Michigan winner will be too hard, so why not have a rematch??? I will be greatly disappointed if the BCS cops out and puts this game as the title game because there will be ten tons of whining regardless of who wins.
Say if Michigan wins a close game, and then OSU wins the rematch in the BCS title game by the same close margin? What have you solved? Other than the two teams have split their two games by the same margin? The madness may never be solved.
Playoffs???? Yeah right...that won't happen in any of our lifetimes
Knight Can't avoid controversy
Bobby Knight seems to be in the middle of something all the time. Now hes accused of slapping someone. I saw the alleged slap and he was lifting the kids chin up to make him look up instead of hanging his head. I'm by no means a Knight apologist, but I think the oversensitive media is way too quick to jump on Bobby Knight because of his past transgressions. Is he a bully? I think so, but I think this situaiton is too much hype.
Which brings me to another point. All this talk about there should just be a rematch of these two great teams in Glendale come January should stop, right now. I am a big Michigan fan, but if Ohio State wins. I'll grudgingly tip my hat to the Buckeyes and root for the Wolverines to win their BCS bowl game. They won't fall far enough to miss out on that one. But there shouldn't be a rematch.
Why? It greatly diminished the value of this high stakes game. The stakes have not been higher for this game in recent memory. There have been times recently where one or the other have been in a place to make a championship run and have had to clear this game to play for a national title. But there has n't been a time where one or the other isn't the foil or spoiler. Its 1 vs 2. The big game before the big game. Many pundits lament that there are too many one loss teams and naming a worthy one to play the OSU-Michigan winner will be too hard, so why not have a rematch??? I will be greatly disappointed if the BCS cops out and puts this game as the title game because there will be ten tons of whining regardless of who wins.
Say if Michigan wins a close game, and then OSU wins the rematch in the BCS title game by the same close margin? What have you solved? Other than the two teams have split their two games by the same margin? The madness may never be solved.
Playoffs???? Yeah right...that won't happen in any of our lifetimes
Knight Can't avoid controversy
Bobby Knight seems to be in the middle of something all the time. Now hes accused of slapping someone. I saw the alleged slap and he was lifting the kids chin up to make him look up instead of hanging his head. I'm by no means a Knight apologist, but I think the oversensitive media is way too quick to jump on Bobby Knight because of his past transgressions. Is he a bully? I think so, but I think this situaiton is too much hype.
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Week 10 Picks
Before I rant about another 7-7 week some notes and observations ...
My sources informed me that the handpicked game to move to NBC in week 11 will be the Chargers-Broncos
Jon Kitna had a higher passer rating last week than Carson Palmer , Payton Manning or Tom Brady
Im stuck at mediocrity a pair of 7-7 weeks has brought my winning percentage down. Happily we now have a full Sunday slate of games to feast on. And plenty of intriging matchups to boot. All 32 teams have now played 8 games and we learned this so far. The Bengals are a victim of their own success, and the sports media still unhappy about them going from dormant to dominant is seeking to put the Bungles tag back on them . The Bears while 7-1 are not the inpregnable team that most have made them out to be and Rex (Wreck) Grossman is not proving to me to be an elite QB The Stealin' Team from Pittsburgh is rapidly going down in flames, but still gets the nod
NFL SCHEDULE – WEEK 10
Sunday, November 12
Ravens (6-2) @ Titans (2-6)
LP Field- Nashville 1:00 (CBS)
Favorite- Ravens by 7
Its A Fact -These teams have split their 16 total meetings
The Ravens are fresh off of a division controling win over the Bengals and have seemed to recover from the two game offensive slumber that they were in October. The Titans are still finding their way and Vince Young is rapidly discovering his potential. That said he has a monumental task facing the roughhouse D that the Ravens bring to the table. Look for the Ravens to utilize their excellent ball control capabilites against a soft Titans defense, get a lead and wait for the predictable results when Young has to throw into the teeth of the Ravens D.
Pick-Baltimore
Bills (3-5) @ Colts (8-0)
RCA Dome, Indianapolis 1:00 (CBS)
Favorite- Colts by 12
Its A Fact -The Bills actually lead the alltime series 34-29-1, but the Colts have won the last five meeting those the last one was 17-14 Colts win in Buffalo in 2003.
The Colts feel that they have truly gotten the Patriot Monkey off their back with a solid win in New England last Sunday Night. (The jury is out on that one till the playoffs, bunkley) The Colts won't get caught in an obvious trap game. The Bills are only averaging 14.3 points on the road while the Colts are averaging 28.5 at home. Simply put the Bills don't have the horsepower (pun intended) to keep up.
Pick-Indianapolis
Browns (2-6) @ Falcons (5-3)
Georgia Dome, Atlanta 1:00 (CBS)
Favorite Falcons by 7.5
Its A Fact-The Browns lead the all-time series 9-2
The Browns are revamping their offensive philosophy to a more ball-control offense utilizing Rueben Droughns more, but the fact is that the Falcons can grind it out against a weak Browns run defense and Michael Vick can and will burn the Browns secondary if they load up the box to stop the run. The Browns will keep it close, but the Falcons will bounce back from a puzzling loss in Detroit
Pick-Atlanta
Packers (3-5) @ Vikings (4-4)
HHH Metrodome, Minneapolis- 1:00 (FOX)
Favorite- Vikings by 5.5
Its A Fact These bitter rivals are tied in their long time series at 44 wins apiece and 1 tie.
(Long Sigh) The Vikings are the most confounding team in the NFL this side of the Bengals. Actually, one knows that the Vikings are offensively challenged and struggle to score points. If the Vikings D can force Brett Favre into his gunslinger mode the opportunistic secondary will take advantage. If the Vikings can run the ball effectively and control the clock in any case they should pull out a close win.
Pick-Minnesota
Texans (2-6) @ Jaguars (5-3)
Alltel Stadium, Jacksonville-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite- Jaguars by 10.5
Its A Fact-This is one of the few series that the Texans lead. Their 27-7 thumping of the Jags 3 weeks ago give them a 5-4 series edge.
Think the Jags have this game circled since the thumping they received in Houston Oct. 22nd? The Jags haven't lost since and have given up 6 and 7 points in their last two games. The Texans haven't won since and have gotten manhandled in their two games. Bad things man, bad things... Pick-Jacksonville
Chiefs (5-3) @ Dolphins (2-6)
Dolphins Stadium, Miami-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite- Chiefs by 1
Its A Fact-These teams met last season on Friday October 21, when the threat of Hurricane Wilma neccesitated its rescheduling. The Chiefs won 30-20.
The Dolphins are feeling good after their shocking upset in Chicago. And the Chiefs have a bad habit of losing to weaker teams, but I can't see the Dolphins playing over their heads twice in a row. If Larry Johnson gets his the Chiefs should roll and keep up in an airtight AFC West.
Pick-Kansas City
NY Jets (4-4) @ Patriots (6-2)
Gillette Stadium; Foxboro, MA 1:00 (CBS)
Favorite- Patriots by 10.5
Its A Fact-The Patriots have won seven straight against the Jets
Despite their loss to the Colts the Pats can put a hammer lock on the AFC East with a win as they have yet to lose versus and AFC East team. The Jets hung tough with them in their first meeting and are well rested after their bye. I doubt that you can sneak up on a Bill Belichick coached team twice and the Jets will learn hard and fast who the boss is in the division.
Pick-New England
Chargers (6-2) @ Bengals (4-4)
Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite- Chargers by 1.5
Its A Fact -The Bengals played their first ever game against the Chargers, losing 29-13 in September 1968.
This has all the makings of a trap game for the Chargers. They have been rolling as of late, and the Bengals are having trouble with being consistent. If LaDainian Tomlinson continues his white hot run of prolific scoring, the Bengals are in deep trouble. I can't see the Bengals even really slowing LT down.
Pick-San Diego
49ers (3-5) @ Lions (2-6)
Ford Field, Detroit-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Lions by 6
Its A Fact This is the Niners first visit to Ford Field
Both teams are coming off stunning wins. But the Lions have suddenly developed an offense and with the Niners sluggishness with their offense , it doesn't bode well for the Niners.
Pick-Detroit
Redskins (3-5) @ Eagles (4-4)
Lincoln Financial Field- 1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Eagles by 7
Its A Fact-The Redskins win over Dallas marked their first win over an NFC team
The Redskins are coming off a snatched from the jaws of defeat win over the Cowboys and face a rested Eagles team. I cant see the Redskins pulling this one out especially if Brian Westbrook gets rolling. The Eagles puzzling slide stops here.
Pick-Philadelphia
Broncos (6-2) @ Raiders (2-6)
McAfee Coliseum, Oakland- 4:05 (CBS)
Favorite- Broncos by 7
Its A Fact- The Raiders won back to back home game for the first time since 2004
The Broncos once stingy defense has suddenly gone generous, giving up 34 to the Colts and 20 to the Steelers. The Raiders got their cans handed to them in Seattle and despite having a respectable defense their offense will make little headway against the Broncos. Look for the Broncos to jump on a Raiders mistake, get the lead and make it stick.
Pick-Denver
Cowboys (4-4) @ Cardinals (1-7)
University of Phoenix Stadium; Glendale, AZ-4:15 (FOX)
Favorite- Cowboys by 6.5
Its A Fact-The Cardinals are planning to honor Pat Tillman with induction into its ring of honor and dedication of a statue of the fallen hero.
The Poekes simply put gave a winnable game away to the Skins and I'm not referring to the missed Vanderjagt FG. Call me crazy but I see the Cards despite all their woes riding a wave of emotion and stealing one from the rapidly disintergrating Pokes.
Pick-Arizona
Saints (6-2) @ Steelers (2-6)
Heinz Field, Pittsburgh-4:15 (FOX)
Favorite- Steelers by 4
Its A Fact-This is the Saints first trip to Heinz Field. The Steelers won 37-14 the last time the Saints played in Pittsburgh in 1992.
Contrary to what the apolgists in the sports media will tell you, the Steelers are done. They were game against a solid Denver team, but the Saints provide more of the same: A solid running game and an opportunistic defense thatr will press Ben Roethlisberger into a a mistake or three and cash in. To quote Flavor Flav "Don't Believe the Hype" Cold weather or no, the Saints are better.
Pick-New Orleans
Rams (4-4) @ Seahawks (5-3)
Qwest Field, Seattle-4:15 (FOX)
Favorite- No Line
Its A Fact-The Seahawks have averaged 32.7 points in the last three meetings with the Rams, all wins.
The Seahawks would love to have the services of Shaun Alexander to run on a weak Rams run defense. But they don't and the Rams have enough fire power to force Seneca Wallace to beat them with his arm. I can't see that happening.
Pick-St. Louis
Bears (7-1) @ NY Giants (6-2)
Giants Stadium; East Rutherford, NJ-8:15 (NBC)
Favorite- Giants by 3
Its A Fact The Bears lead the all-time series 26-17-2
The Bears are woozy after getting an unexpected pimp-slap by the Dolphins. The Giants are a lot tougher than the Fins and boast a rugged running game and depsite the abscence of Michael Strahan a solid defense. Eli Manning will be without Amani Toomer, but the G-men will manage. Rex Grossman continues to come back to earth
Pick-New York Giants
Monday, November 13
Buccaneers (2-6) @ Panthers (4-4)
Bank Of America Stadium, Charlotte-8:30 (ESPN)
Favorite- Panthers by 9
Its A Fact-Both teams are a game over .500 on Monday Night (TB 8-7, Car 3-2)
The Panthers are a tough team to figure, flying high after a tough win over Baltimore, they got outslugged in Cincy and pounded by the Pokes before a stunned home crowd. They've had a week to stew about and the Bad News Bucs are in their sights. The Bucs anemic offense doesn't need to deal with an angry Panthers defense.
Pick-Carolina
Last Week 7-7
Overall 78-50
My sources informed me that the handpicked game to move to NBC in week 11 will be the Chargers-Broncos
Jon Kitna had a higher passer rating last week than Carson Palmer , Payton Manning or Tom Brady
Im stuck at mediocrity a pair of 7-7 weeks has brought my winning percentage down. Happily we now have a full Sunday slate of games to feast on. And plenty of intriging matchups to boot. All 32 teams have now played 8 games and we learned this so far. The Bengals are a victim of their own success, and the sports media still unhappy about them going from dormant to dominant is seeking to put the Bungles tag back on them . The Bears while 7-1 are not the inpregnable team that most have made them out to be and Rex (Wreck) Grossman is not proving to me to be an elite QB The Stealin' Team from Pittsburgh is rapidly going down in flames, but still gets the nod
NFL SCHEDULE – WEEK 10
Sunday, November 12
Ravens (6-2) @ Titans (2-6)
LP Field- Nashville 1:00 (CBS)
Favorite- Ravens by 7
Its A Fact -These teams have split their 16 total meetings
The Ravens are fresh off of a division controling win over the Bengals and have seemed to recover from the two game offensive slumber that they were in October. The Titans are still finding their way and Vince Young is rapidly discovering his potential. That said he has a monumental task facing the roughhouse D that the Ravens bring to the table. Look for the Ravens to utilize their excellent ball control capabilites against a soft Titans defense, get a lead and wait for the predictable results when Young has to throw into the teeth of the Ravens D.
Pick-Baltimore
Bills (3-5) @ Colts (8-0)
RCA Dome, Indianapolis 1:00 (CBS)
Favorite- Colts by 12
Its A Fact -The Bills actually lead the alltime series 34-29-1, but the Colts have won the last five meeting those the last one was 17-14 Colts win in Buffalo in 2003.
The Colts feel that they have truly gotten the Patriot Monkey off their back with a solid win in New England last Sunday Night. (The jury is out on that one till the playoffs, bunkley) The Colts won't get caught in an obvious trap game. The Bills are only averaging 14.3 points on the road while the Colts are averaging 28.5 at home. Simply put the Bills don't have the horsepower (pun intended) to keep up.
Pick-Indianapolis
Browns (2-6) @ Falcons (5-3)
Georgia Dome, Atlanta 1:00 (CBS)
Favorite Falcons by 7.5
Its A Fact-The Browns lead the all-time series 9-2
The Browns are revamping their offensive philosophy to a more ball-control offense utilizing Rueben Droughns more, but the fact is that the Falcons can grind it out against a weak Browns run defense and Michael Vick can and will burn the Browns secondary if they load up the box to stop the run. The Browns will keep it close, but the Falcons will bounce back from a puzzling loss in Detroit
Pick-Atlanta
Packers (3-5) @ Vikings (4-4)
HHH Metrodome, Minneapolis- 1:00 (FOX)
Favorite- Vikings by 5.5
Its A Fact These bitter rivals are tied in their long time series at 44 wins apiece and 1 tie.
(Long Sigh) The Vikings are the most confounding team in the NFL this side of the Bengals. Actually, one knows that the Vikings are offensively challenged and struggle to score points. If the Vikings D can force Brett Favre into his gunslinger mode the opportunistic secondary will take advantage. If the Vikings can run the ball effectively and control the clock in any case they should pull out a close win.
Pick-Minnesota
Texans (2-6) @ Jaguars (5-3)
Alltel Stadium, Jacksonville-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite- Jaguars by 10.5
Its A Fact-This is one of the few series that the Texans lead. Their 27-7 thumping of the Jags 3 weeks ago give them a 5-4 series edge.
Think the Jags have this game circled since the thumping they received in Houston Oct. 22nd? The Jags haven't lost since and have given up 6 and 7 points in their last two games. The Texans haven't won since and have gotten manhandled in their two games. Bad things man, bad things... Pick-Jacksonville
Chiefs (5-3) @ Dolphins (2-6)
Dolphins Stadium, Miami-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite- Chiefs by 1
Its A Fact-These teams met last season on Friday October 21, when the threat of Hurricane Wilma neccesitated its rescheduling. The Chiefs won 30-20.
The Dolphins are feeling good after their shocking upset in Chicago. And the Chiefs have a bad habit of losing to weaker teams, but I can't see the Dolphins playing over their heads twice in a row. If Larry Johnson gets his the Chiefs should roll and keep up in an airtight AFC West.
Pick-Kansas City
NY Jets (4-4) @ Patriots (6-2)
Gillette Stadium; Foxboro, MA 1:00 (CBS)
Favorite- Patriots by 10.5
Its A Fact-The Patriots have won seven straight against the Jets
Despite their loss to the Colts the Pats can put a hammer lock on the AFC East with a win as they have yet to lose versus and AFC East team. The Jets hung tough with them in their first meeting and are well rested after their bye. I doubt that you can sneak up on a Bill Belichick coached team twice and the Jets will learn hard and fast who the boss is in the division.
Pick-New England
Chargers (6-2) @ Bengals (4-4)
Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite- Chargers by 1.5
Its A Fact -The Bengals played their first ever game against the Chargers, losing 29-13 in September 1968.
This has all the makings of a trap game for the Chargers. They have been rolling as of late, and the Bengals are having trouble with being consistent. If LaDainian Tomlinson continues his white hot run of prolific scoring, the Bengals are in deep trouble. I can't see the Bengals even really slowing LT down.
Pick-San Diego
49ers (3-5) @ Lions (2-6)
Ford Field, Detroit-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Lions by 6
Its A Fact This is the Niners first visit to Ford Field
Both teams are coming off stunning wins. But the Lions have suddenly developed an offense and with the Niners sluggishness with their offense , it doesn't bode well for the Niners.
Pick-Detroit
Redskins (3-5) @ Eagles (4-4)
Lincoln Financial Field- 1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Eagles by 7
Its A Fact-The Redskins win over Dallas marked their first win over an NFC team
The Redskins are coming off a snatched from the jaws of defeat win over the Cowboys and face a rested Eagles team. I cant see the Redskins pulling this one out especially if Brian Westbrook gets rolling. The Eagles puzzling slide stops here.
Pick-Philadelphia
Broncos (6-2) @ Raiders (2-6)
McAfee Coliseum, Oakland- 4:05 (CBS)
Favorite- Broncos by 7
Its A Fact- The Raiders won back to back home game for the first time since 2004
The Broncos once stingy defense has suddenly gone generous, giving up 34 to the Colts and 20 to the Steelers. The Raiders got their cans handed to them in Seattle and despite having a respectable defense their offense will make little headway against the Broncos. Look for the Broncos to jump on a Raiders mistake, get the lead and make it stick.
Pick-Denver
Cowboys (4-4) @ Cardinals (1-7)
University of Phoenix Stadium; Glendale, AZ-4:15 (FOX)
Favorite- Cowboys by 6.5
Its A Fact-The Cardinals are planning to honor Pat Tillman with induction into its ring of honor and dedication of a statue of the fallen hero.
The Poekes simply put gave a winnable game away to the Skins and I'm not referring to the missed Vanderjagt FG. Call me crazy but I see the Cards despite all their woes riding a wave of emotion and stealing one from the rapidly disintergrating Pokes.
Pick-Arizona
Saints (6-2) @ Steelers (2-6)
Heinz Field, Pittsburgh-4:15 (FOX)
Favorite- Steelers by 4
Its A Fact-This is the Saints first trip to Heinz Field. The Steelers won 37-14 the last time the Saints played in Pittsburgh in 1992.
Contrary to what the apolgists in the sports media will tell you, the Steelers are done. They were game against a solid Denver team, but the Saints provide more of the same: A solid running game and an opportunistic defense thatr will press Ben Roethlisberger into a a mistake or three and cash in. To quote Flavor Flav "Don't Believe the Hype" Cold weather or no, the Saints are better.
Pick-New Orleans
Rams (4-4) @ Seahawks (5-3)
Qwest Field, Seattle-4:15 (FOX)
Favorite- No Line
Its A Fact-The Seahawks have averaged 32.7 points in the last three meetings with the Rams, all wins.
The Seahawks would love to have the services of Shaun Alexander to run on a weak Rams run defense. But they don't and the Rams have enough fire power to force Seneca Wallace to beat them with his arm. I can't see that happening.
Pick-St. Louis
Bears (7-1) @ NY Giants (6-2)
Giants Stadium; East Rutherford, NJ-8:15 (NBC)
Favorite- Giants by 3
Its A Fact The Bears lead the all-time series 26-17-2
The Bears are woozy after getting an unexpected pimp-slap by the Dolphins. The Giants are a lot tougher than the Fins and boast a rugged running game and depsite the abscence of Michael Strahan a solid defense. Eli Manning will be without Amani Toomer, but the G-men will manage. Rex Grossman continues to come back to earth
Pick-New York Giants
Monday, November 13
Buccaneers (2-6) @ Panthers (4-4)
Bank Of America Stadium, Charlotte-8:30 (ESPN)
Favorite- Panthers by 9
Its A Fact-Both teams are a game over .500 on Monday Night (TB 8-7, Car 3-2)
The Panthers are a tough team to figure, flying high after a tough win over Baltimore, they got outslugged in Cincy and pounded by the Pokes before a stunned home crowd. They've had a week to stew about and the Bad News Bucs are in their sights. The Bucs anemic offense doesn't need to deal with an angry Panthers defense.
Pick-Carolina
Last Week 7-7
Overall 78-50
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Mid-week observations...
The picks are comin' don't worry bout a thing.
But I had to muse about somethings beforehand.
Best wishes on a speedy recovery to JoePa, broke leg and all hes probably tougher than coaches half his age. And you can bet if the game was against someone other thatn weak-ass Temple, he'd be on the sidelines, cast and all.
Was the incident between Raid-uhs DE Tyler Brayton and Seahawks TE Jerramy Stevens the most ignantish shit (iganant by the way is ghetto for ignorant) you ever seen. Why the hell are you going to knee someone in the package, right in front of a ref. Brayton was fined $25K for his actions. And Stevens wasn't as innocent as he would like to have portrayed himself, he was $15K lighter in the wallet. ESPN reported that Brayton stated "I feel like I let a lot of people down. I embarrassed myself, my family, the Raiders organization, the entire NFL," Brayton said. "For that, I apologize. I kind of allowed my personal frustrations and emotions to get the best of me. My actions are inexcusable, provoked or unprovoked. I also apologize to Jerramy Stevens and the Seattle Seahawks. Doesn't matter what the situation was, I had no right to do that."
Regardless, of what the situation was. Brayton's actions were stupid and he's lucky that he isn't missing games. The NFL already had to deal with Albert Haynesworth and his mindless stomping on the head of Cowboys center Andre Gurode last month. Stuff like that is inexcusable.
Is it me or are the NBA refs a little thinner skinned than normal. Oh every knows that Rasheed Wallace will get his normal share of technical fouls. But he has 4 in four games. The first week there have been 16 technicals in the first week and a handful of ejections. Its like the refs are just itching to toss players who dare question their calls. Now don't get it twisted. I have no beef with T'ing up a player who is cursing at a ref or is complaining beyond reason. But the new rules are taking the soul out of the game. Players need some latitude to express themselves at what they think is a bad call or question why a ref made a particular judgement. But getting a tech or in some cases ejected for taking off a headband as you are leaving the court and throwing to the bench. As what got Carmelo Anthony the heave-ho a few days ago is going a little too far. David Stern is the capo di capo of sports commisioners and no onehas done as fine a job as he has for as long as he has. But I think that he's starting to overreach his power. First with the dress code, then the gun issue, then unilaterally changing the ball that is used, now this no tolerance edict to speaking to referees. I think he might be going too far...
NFL week 10 picks coming presently...
But I had to muse about somethings beforehand.
Best wishes on a speedy recovery to JoePa, broke leg and all hes probably tougher than coaches half his age. And you can bet if the game was against someone other thatn weak-ass Temple, he'd be on the sidelines, cast and all.
Was the incident between Raid-uhs DE Tyler Brayton and Seahawks TE Jerramy Stevens the most ignantish shit (iganant by the way is ghetto for ignorant) you ever seen. Why the hell are you going to knee someone in the package, right in front of a ref. Brayton was fined $25K for his actions. And Stevens wasn't as innocent as he would like to have portrayed himself, he was $15K lighter in the wallet. ESPN reported that Brayton stated "I feel like I let a lot of people down. I embarrassed myself, my family, the Raiders organization, the entire NFL," Brayton said. "For that, I apologize. I kind of allowed my personal frustrations and emotions to get the best of me. My actions are inexcusable, provoked or unprovoked. I also apologize to Jerramy Stevens and the Seattle Seahawks. Doesn't matter what the situation was, I had no right to do that."
Regardless, of what the situation was. Brayton's actions were stupid and he's lucky that he isn't missing games. The NFL already had to deal with Albert Haynesworth and his mindless stomping on the head of Cowboys center Andre Gurode last month. Stuff like that is inexcusable.
Is it me or are the NBA refs a little thinner skinned than normal. Oh every knows that Rasheed Wallace will get his normal share of technical fouls. But he has 4 in four games. The first week there have been 16 technicals in the first week and a handful of ejections. Its like the refs are just itching to toss players who dare question their calls. Now don't get it twisted. I have no beef with T'ing up a player who is cursing at a ref or is complaining beyond reason. But the new rules are taking the soul out of the game. Players need some latitude to express themselves at what they think is a bad call or question why a ref made a particular judgement. But getting a tech or in some cases ejected for taking off a headband as you are leaving the court and throwing to the bench. As what got Carmelo Anthony the heave-ho a few days ago is going a little too far. David Stern is the capo di capo of sports commisioners and no onehas done as fine a job as he has for as long as he has. But I think that he's starting to overreach his power. First with the dress code, then the gun issue, then unilaterally changing the ball that is used, now this no tolerance edict to speaking to referees. I think he might be going too far...
NFL week 10 picks coming presently...
Sunday, November 05, 2006
BCS Madness...
Look I'm a realist, I know that I'll never understand why 1 billion people around the world watch soccer and get all excited over a 1-nil score. I'll never understand why people in Wisconsin are obsessed with cheese. And I understand that college football president are so desperately against a college football playoff, but will never understand their logic (or lack of it) behind it. Louisville took a big step toward a possible BCS title game berth with a 44-34 rout of West Virgina Thursday. With Ohio State and Michigan headed to a showdown in Columbus on the 18th one of these teams will fall by the wayside in the national title chase. Oh the loser will still get to a BCS bowl trust and believe that, but the fact remains that there will be some soreheads whining when the bowl bids are handed out. At the time of this post there are but 5 remaining unbeaten teams. That number will be whittled to three come Sunday November 19th. Louisville has to travel to Rutgers (Rutgers???) Thursday to take on the plucky and unbeaten Scarlet Knights who have never been in this heady company. If the Cards win they should finish unbeaten though a game vs Pitt still could be a test. If the Knights win they would still have to beat the Mountaineers. If all three teams end up with one loss, hte BCS would breath sigh of relief and the football pundits would pat the Big East on the head throw them a lesser BCS game and say begone. Would the college football esatblishment have a fit if Rutgers beat Louisville and complete a perfect season. Oh they would get a BCS bowl bid, if they win out they would be big East Champs outright and get the bid automatically. But I can already hear the carping from locales like South Bend, Gainesville, Austin, Chestnut Hill and Auburn that carp that they should be further ahead in the food chain, becuase of prestige and money...nevermind that the aforementioned teams all have at least one loss. Louisville has a little bit of prestige,t hough they are not that far removed from a 1-10 seasonn. But they aren't a national power.
In the cases of teams like Notre Dame (blown out in their own crib by #2 Michigan) and Texas (Thumped in their own crib by #1 Ohio State) they should keep their collective mouths shut.
But KJ, the other teams advocates cry, we play in a tough tough league we beat each other up, its so hard to go unbeaten. I say save it. Keep winning and the accolades will come.
Then you have the most curious case of the Boise State Broncos, the team that the college presidents wish would just go away. Back in the day, after Tulane threatened to sue the NCAA because they were getting locked out of the BCS after a 13-1 season. The BCS instituted a rule if a team was in the top 12 of the BCS standing they were guaranteed a BCS slot. Yikes. Do you see a Rutgers-Boise State game in the BCS. Dont laugh its a possiblity. Rutgers right now is at 12 and Boise State is at 14 in the latest BCS rankings. A nightmare scenario would be for Rutgers to beat Louisville badly and the BCS would have no choice but to move the Scarlet Knights up. Boise State aint losing the rest of the season but they will get dogged for having a weak schedule. But the bigger conferences will sneer at their competition and say you cant use that as an excuse...but they can for their standard bearer having one loss on their record. Boise State will never ever be on the schedule for an SEC power cause the risk is too high and the reward is not nearly enough .
Nonsensical??? Wait it gets better.
Notre Dame knows that they have a BCS bid locked up. I've railed on their mostly powerpuff schedule before so I won't rehash it here, but the Irish have a higher computer score in 5 of the 6 rankings than West Virginia (this was before Thursday's game) and they were higher than Louisville in all of them!!! But the Irish who will likely get exposed as the BCS fraud that they are when they play (and lose to) USC later this month, will likely get the BCS berth despite 2...count em 2 losses!!! While Boise State and Rutgers who may have one loss between them will go to a minor bowl and wonder why they got the shaft. Also because of contractual obligations Navy will eat one of the Big East's 6 bowl bids when they become bowl eligble in the next week or two meaning my beloved Cincinnati Bearcats might get locked out of a bowl despite being bowl eligble with 6 wins.
I've said before and I'll say it again, the BCS is a bunch of crap. The bowls whine about the prestige and the college presidents say things like they are concerned about the kids. Bull, its about control. Plain and simple, how come a three weekend 65 team playoff is good for the basketball and makes a stinkload of cash for everyone involved but the same cant be worked out for college football??? Simple and plain this is the last bastion of control the college presidents have. A system where even if you aren't playing for a national championship you get the luster of being on tv, the prestige of saying you're a (insert corporate name here) bowl champ. where a 8 or 16 team knockout tourney would diminish the power of the blue hairs that can wield power and the multi-million dollar checks out like halloween candy...
Let the Madness begin!!!
In the cases of teams like Notre Dame (blown out in their own crib by #2 Michigan) and Texas (Thumped in their own crib by #1 Ohio State) they should keep their collective mouths shut.
But KJ, the other teams advocates cry, we play in a tough tough league we beat each other up, its so hard to go unbeaten. I say save it. Keep winning and the accolades will come.
Then you have the most curious case of the Boise State Broncos, the team that the college presidents wish would just go away. Back in the day, after Tulane threatened to sue the NCAA because they were getting locked out of the BCS after a 13-1 season. The BCS instituted a rule if a team was in the top 12 of the BCS standing they were guaranteed a BCS slot. Yikes. Do you see a Rutgers-Boise State game in the BCS. Dont laugh its a possiblity. Rutgers right now is at 12 and Boise State is at 14 in the latest BCS rankings. A nightmare scenario would be for Rutgers to beat Louisville badly and the BCS would have no choice but to move the Scarlet Knights up. Boise State aint losing the rest of the season but they will get dogged for having a weak schedule. But the bigger conferences will sneer at their competition and say you cant use that as an excuse...but they can for their standard bearer having one loss on their record. Boise State will never ever be on the schedule for an SEC power cause the risk is too high and the reward is not nearly enough .
Nonsensical??? Wait it gets better.
Notre Dame knows that they have a BCS bid locked up. I've railed on their mostly powerpuff schedule before so I won't rehash it here, but the Irish have a higher computer score in 5 of the 6 rankings than West Virginia (this was before Thursday's game) and they were higher than Louisville in all of them!!! But the Irish who will likely get exposed as the BCS fraud that they are when they play (and lose to) USC later this month, will likely get the BCS berth despite 2...count em 2 losses!!! While Boise State and Rutgers who may have one loss between them will go to a minor bowl and wonder why they got the shaft. Also because of contractual obligations Navy will eat one of the Big East's 6 bowl bids when they become bowl eligble in the next week or two meaning my beloved Cincinnati Bearcats might get locked out of a bowl despite being bowl eligble with 6 wins.
I've said before and I'll say it again, the BCS is a bunch of crap. The bowls whine about the prestige and the college presidents say things like they are concerned about the kids. Bull, its about control. Plain and simple, how come a three weekend 65 team playoff is good for the basketball and makes a stinkload of cash for everyone involved but the same cant be worked out for college football??? Simple and plain this is the last bastion of control the college presidents have. A system where even if you aren't playing for a national championship you get the luster of being on tv, the prestige of saying you're a (insert corporate name here) bowl champ. where a 8 or 16 team knockout tourney would diminish the power of the blue hairs that can wield power and the multi-million dollar checks out like halloween candy...
Let the Madness begin!!!
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Week 9 Picks
My hatred for the Stealers has never been higher...I've always detested the one sided logo of the team. Their brash boorish fans and their granite jawed, expectorating coach. Now, I hate them for not being dependable and messing up my Lock of The Week. I mean geez, its the Raid-uhs. Now they have the same record as the one-timed ridiculed Oakland squad and uh-oh is that an angry Broncos squad riding into town??? The Tuna made me look like a fool again. Giving me new reason to hate the Pokes, the Bengals are getting harder to figure and the rest of the league is rapidly developing that quagmire status. Oh well, thats the fun of picking the games. In a happy note, the Eagles, Cards, Panthers and Jets are the last teams to have a bye and we get back to a full slate of games next week. My next speculation will now be as to who gets the handpicked Sunday Night game. The Bears-Giants game being moved to prime time this week is a no-brainer, both the G-Men and the Bears are leading their respective divisions and the Bears should be unbeaten. My spec is that the Bengals Saints and the Colts-Cowboys games will be moved to the late day and the primetime respectively. Especially if the Colts are still unbeaten. But in any case fresh off a 7-7 week, more picks and speculation for your review and consumption.
NFL SCHEDULE – WEEK 9
BYE WEEK: Arizona (1-7); Carolina (4-4); NY Jets (4-4); Philadelphia (4-4)
Sunday, November 5
Falcons (5-2) @ Lions (1-6)
Ford Field, Detroit-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Falcons by 5
Its A FactKevin Jones of the Lions is averageing 105.7 yards of total offense.
The Falcons have figued out that Michael Vick can really throw the ball (no kidding!). He really doesn't have to throw the ball much. As the Lions pourous defense will have enough trouble slowing down much less stopping the Falcons running game, If Vick needs to throw he'll have an easy time picking on the Lions weak-willed secondary. The Lionsoffense is capable enough, but they ill have to play perfect to keep up with the Falcons. That ain't happenin'
Pick-Atlanta
Bengals (4-3) @ Ravens (5-2)
M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite Ravens by 3
Its A Fact-After been dominated by the Ravens the past eight years. The Bengals have won the last three meetings
The Bengals aren't afraid of the Ravens anymore and this is turning into a nasty rivalry. The Ravens have suddenly found a potent offense and with the trouble that the Bengals defense has with strong running games that could pose a problem. I just have a feeling that Carson Palmer who played decently against a good Falcons defense will continue to play strong and the offense will have just enough to make the AFC North even tighter.
Pick-Cincinnati
Cowboys (4-3) @ Redskins (2-5)
FedEx Field; Landover, MD-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Cowboys by 3
Its A Fact-The Cowboys are 15-3 against the Redskins since 1998
The Pokes are feeling good after their stunning rout of Carolina. Tony Romo may not be the long term answer but he is playing well enough to keep the Pokes dream of a playoff berth alive. The Skins are a mess and it won't be long before Redskin nation calls for Jason Campbell to play. The Cowboys have to simply key on Clinton Portis and wait for Mark Brunell to make his usual dumb mistake and cash in on a rapidly deteriotating team.
Pick-Dallas
Packers (3-4) @ Bills (2-5)
Ralph Wilson Stadium; Orchard Park, NY-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Bills by 3
Its A Fact-Ahman Green and Vernand Morency th had 100 yards rushing against the Cards last week.
The Bills are revamping their offensive line so JP Losman doesn't take more of a beating. These two teams have more questions than answers but I think that the Bills will have a harder time containing the Pack's solid running game and I'll take Brett Favre over JP Losman in crunch time decision making.
Pick-Green Bay
Texans (2-5) @ NY Giants (5-2)
Giants Stadium; East Rutherford, NJ-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Giants by 13
Its A Fact-The Giants are one of the few teams that the Teaxns own a winning record against, beating the Giants in their only meeting 16-14 in 2002.
The Giants have better things to worry about than a sad-sack Texan team still trying to find its way. Sage Rosenfels may be taking theQB reins for the Texans who may have finally given up on David Carr. The Giants should have no problem here unless they get caught looking to their prime-time tilt with the Bears next week, then the Texans might keep it interesting for a while.
Pic-New York Giants
Chiefs (4-3) @ Rams (4-3)
Edward Jones Dome, St. Louis-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Rams by 2.5
Its A Fact-This is only the second time these teams have met since the Rams moved to Missouri in 1995.
The Chiefs have suddenly found a high powered offense putting 30+ points up in back to back shockers against San Diego and Seattle. The Rams defense scares no one but their fans. That should be good news for Larry Johnson. Marc Bulger is capable of putting up some good numbers but how often will he get the chance??? Look for the Chiefs to grind the ball and keep the Rams offense off the field a good part of the game.
Pick-Kansas City
Dolphins (1-6) @ Bears (7-0)
Soldier Field, Chicago-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Bears by 13.5
Its A Fact-The last time the Bears played the Dolphins and were undefeated they lost 38-24 in 1985
Everything is there for an upset, a Bears team looking to a big game with the Giants next week, the Dolphins come in rested and ready. The Bears having played one soft team after another...who am I kidding??? Joey Harrington is shaking in his shoes seeing what Da Bears did to the Niners. This game will get ugly fast. But the Bears had better have fun as a rugged three game roadie awaits.
Pick-Chicago
Saints(5-2) @ Buccaneers (2-5)
Raymond James Stadium, Tampa-1:00 FOX
Favorite-Saints by 1
The Saints got taken to the woodshed by a rugged Ravens squad while the Bucs were brought down to earth by a tough Giants team. The Saints may not be with the services of Reggie Bush and Joe Horn which may pose a problem if they were playing anyone but the luckless Bucs whose offense makes anemic look strong. The Saints have more than enough to roll easily.
Pick-New Orleans
Titans (2-5) @ Jaguars (4-3)
Alltel Stadium, Jacksonville-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite Jaguars by 9
Its A Fact-The Jags won the last two meetings by a combined score of 71-41
The Titans are riding their first two game winning streak since 2003 and Vince Young has sparkled in both wins. The Jags have an uneven defense, solid in wins against strong teams like the Jets and Eagles but shoddy in losses to weak teams like the Redskins and Texans. Which team shows up? I'll take my chances and say the good defense slows Young down and the Jags win a tight one.
Pick-Jacksonville
Vikings (4-3) @ 49ers (2-5)
Monster Park, San Francisco-4:05 (FOX)
Favorite-Vikings by 6.5
Its A Fact The Niners have won the last four meetings in San Francisco
The Vikings were embarrassed by the Pats and the Niners were blasted by the Bears, which team comes in with a bigger hangover? The Niners can't possibly spread the field like Tom Brady did on Monday and they don't have near the running game to keep the Vikings honest. Look for the Vikes to bounce back strong, they have winnable games from here on out to a matchup with the Bears in December.
Pick-Minnesota
Browns (2-5) @ Chargers (5-2)
Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite-Chargers by 12.5
Its A Fact-The only wins on the road the Browns have had in their last none road games have been two in Oakland.
The Chargers thumped the Rams by pounding LT and utilizing the precise passing of Philip Rivers. The Browns sorry run defense will be easy picking for Tomlinson. The Chargers defense will miss Shawne Merriman who will start his four game suspension this week, but not much, the Chargers dont play a team ranked higher than 18th in offense during Merriman's absence.
Pick-San Diego (Lock of the Week)
Broncos (5-2) @ Steelers (2-5)
Heinz Field, Pittsburgh-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite-Steelers by 3
Its A Fact-After giving up but 2 touchdowns in their first 6 games the Broncos gave up four in their home loss to the Colts.
The Broncos lost a shootout last week, but they have to encouraged by their offensive showing. The Steelers are now in panic mode after their stunning loss to the Raid-uhs. The Broncos will move the ball just enought to get points while the hard charging Bronco defense will be in Ben Roethlisberger's face enough to force him into mistakes. The Steelers lofty hopes of a stretch run will continue to fade after today
Pick-Denver
Colts (7-0) @ Patriots (6-1)
Gillette Stadium; Foxboro, MA-8:15 (NBC)
Favorite-Patriots by 1
Its A Fact. The one-time division rivals have a long history with the Pats leading the series 43-25 and having won 6 of the last 7 meetings.
The Colts face the second of their two stern road tests. Peyton Manning excorcised some of his demons with a monday night rout of the Pats last year but critics point to the absence of defensive anchors Rodney Harrison and Richard Seymour. The Colts are better this year, but their run defense remains a liability. I think the game will be tight all the way, and the Colts will score some points/ But you know that Bill Belichick will come up with some extraordinary scheme to neutralize Manning's playcalling and the Pats seem to step it up a notch at home . I seem them slugging out a tough win.
Pick-New England
Monday, November 6
Raiders (2-5) @ Seahawks (4-3)
Quest Field, Seattle-8:30 (ESPN)
Favorite-Seahawks by 7.5
Its A Fact-The Raiders have won more times than the Seahawks have appeared on Monday Night (36-21)
The Raiders are feeling fine after thumping the Cards and stunning the Steelers, the fun ends in Seattle where the Seahawks, reeling after being routed by the Vikes and coming up short agains the Chiefs, with or without Shaun Alexander (likely without) the Seahawks will take advantage of the Raiders offensive weakness and roll to a solid win
Pick-Seattle
Last Week 7-7
Overall 71-43
NFL SCHEDULE – WEEK 9
BYE WEEK: Arizona (1-7); Carolina (4-4); NY Jets (4-4); Philadelphia (4-4)
Sunday, November 5
Falcons (5-2) @ Lions (1-6)
Ford Field, Detroit-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Falcons by 5
Its A FactKevin Jones of the Lions is averageing 105.7 yards of total offense.
The Falcons have figued out that Michael Vick can really throw the ball (no kidding!). He really doesn't have to throw the ball much. As the Lions pourous defense will have enough trouble slowing down much less stopping the Falcons running game, If Vick needs to throw he'll have an easy time picking on the Lions weak-willed secondary. The Lionsoffense is capable enough, but they ill have to play perfect to keep up with the Falcons. That ain't happenin'
Pick-Atlanta
Bengals (4-3) @ Ravens (5-2)
M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite Ravens by 3
Its A Fact-After been dominated by the Ravens the past eight years. The Bengals have won the last three meetings
The Bengals aren't afraid of the Ravens anymore and this is turning into a nasty rivalry. The Ravens have suddenly found a potent offense and with the trouble that the Bengals defense has with strong running games that could pose a problem. I just have a feeling that Carson Palmer who played decently against a good Falcons defense will continue to play strong and the offense will have just enough to make the AFC North even tighter.
Pick-Cincinnati
Cowboys (4-3) @ Redskins (2-5)
FedEx Field; Landover, MD-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Cowboys by 3
Its A Fact-The Cowboys are 15-3 against the Redskins since 1998
The Pokes are feeling good after their stunning rout of Carolina. Tony Romo may not be the long term answer but he is playing well enough to keep the Pokes dream of a playoff berth alive. The Skins are a mess and it won't be long before Redskin nation calls for Jason Campbell to play. The Cowboys have to simply key on Clinton Portis and wait for Mark Brunell to make his usual dumb mistake and cash in on a rapidly deteriotating team.
Pick-Dallas
Packers (3-4) @ Bills (2-5)
Ralph Wilson Stadium; Orchard Park, NY-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Bills by 3
Its A Fact-Ahman Green and Vernand Morency th had 100 yards rushing against the Cards last week.
The Bills are revamping their offensive line so JP Losman doesn't take more of a beating. These two teams have more questions than answers but I think that the Bills will have a harder time containing the Pack's solid running game and I'll take Brett Favre over JP Losman in crunch time decision making.
Pick-Green Bay
Texans (2-5) @ NY Giants (5-2)
Giants Stadium; East Rutherford, NJ-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Giants by 13
Its A Fact-The Giants are one of the few teams that the Teaxns own a winning record against, beating the Giants in their only meeting 16-14 in 2002.
The Giants have better things to worry about than a sad-sack Texan team still trying to find its way. Sage Rosenfels may be taking theQB reins for the Texans who may have finally given up on David Carr. The Giants should have no problem here unless they get caught looking to their prime-time tilt with the Bears next week, then the Texans might keep it interesting for a while.
Pic-New York Giants
Chiefs (4-3) @ Rams (4-3)
Edward Jones Dome, St. Louis-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Rams by 2.5
Its A Fact-This is only the second time these teams have met since the Rams moved to Missouri in 1995.
The Chiefs have suddenly found a high powered offense putting 30+ points up in back to back shockers against San Diego and Seattle. The Rams defense scares no one but their fans. That should be good news for Larry Johnson. Marc Bulger is capable of putting up some good numbers but how often will he get the chance??? Look for the Chiefs to grind the ball and keep the Rams offense off the field a good part of the game.
Pick-Kansas City
Dolphins (1-6) @ Bears (7-0)
Soldier Field, Chicago-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Bears by 13.5
Its A Fact-The last time the Bears played the Dolphins and were undefeated they lost 38-24 in 1985
Everything is there for an upset, a Bears team looking to a big game with the Giants next week, the Dolphins come in rested and ready. The Bears having played one soft team after another...who am I kidding??? Joey Harrington is shaking in his shoes seeing what Da Bears did to the Niners. This game will get ugly fast. But the Bears had better have fun as a rugged three game roadie awaits.
Pick-Chicago
Saints(5-2) @ Buccaneers (2-5)
Raymond James Stadium, Tampa-1:00 FOX
Favorite-Saints by 1
The Saints got taken to the woodshed by a rugged Ravens squad while the Bucs were brought down to earth by a tough Giants team. The Saints may not be with the services of Reggie Bush and Joe Horn which may pose a problem if they were playing anyone but the luckless Bucs whose offense makes anemic look strong. The Saints have more than enough to roll easily.
Pick-New Orleans
Titans (2-5) @ Jaguars (4-3)
Alltel Stadium, Jacksonville-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite Jaguars by 9
Its A Fact-The Jags won the last two meetings by a combined score of 71-41
The Titans are riding their first two game winning streak since 2003 and Vince Young has sparkled in both wins. The Jags have an uneven defense, solid in wins against strong teams like the Jets and Eagles but shoddy in losses to weak teams like the Redskins and Texans. Which team shows up? I'll take my chances and say the good defense slows Young down and the Jags win a tight one.
Pick-Jacksonville
Vikings (4-3) @ 49ers (2-5)
Monster Park, San Francisco-4:05 (FOX)
Favorite-Vikings by 6.5
Its A Fact The Niners have won the last four meetings in San Francisco
The Vikings were embarrassed by the Pats and the Niners were blasted by the Bears, which team comes in with a bigger hangover? The Niners can't possibly spread the field like Tom Brady did on Monday and they don't have near the running game to keep the Vikings honest. Look for the Vikes to bounce back strong, they have winnable games from here on out to a matchup with the Bears in December.
Pick-Minnesota
Browns (2-5) @ Chargers (5-2)
Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite-Chargers by 12.5
Its A Fact-The only wins on the road the Browns have had in their last none road games have been two in Oakland.
The Chargers thumped the Rams by pounding LT and utilizing the precise passing of Philip Rivers. The Browns sorry run defense will be easy picking for Tomlinson. The Chargers defense will miss Shawne Merriman who will start his four game suspension this week, but not much, the Chargers dont play a team ranked higher than 18th in offense during Merriman's absence.
Pick-San Diego (Lock of the Week)
Broncos (5-2) @ Steelers (2-5)
Heinz Field, Pittsburgh-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite-Steelers by 3
Its A Fact-After giving up but 2 touchdowns in their first 6 games the Broncos gave up four in their home loss to the Colts.
The Broncos lost a shootout last week, but they have to encouraged by their offensive showing. The Steelers are now in panic mode after their stunning loss to the Raid-uhs. The Broncos will move the ball just enought to get points while the hard charging Bronco defense will be in Ben Roethlisberger's face enough to force him into mistakes. The Steelers lofty hopes of a stretch run will continue to fade after today
Pick-Denver
Colts (7-0) @ Patriots (6-1)
Gillette Stadium; Foxboro, MA-8:15 (NBC)
Favorite-Patriots by 1
Its A Fact. The one-time division rivals have a long history with the Pats leading the series 43-25 and having won 6 of the last 7 meetings.
The Colts face the second of their two stern road tests. Peyton Manning excorcised some of his demons with a monday night rout of the Pats last year but critics point to the absence of defensive anchors Rodney Harrison and Richard Seymour. The Colts are better this year, but their run defense remains a liability. I think the game will be tight all the way, and the Colts will score some points/ But you know that Bill Belichick will come up with some extraordinary scheme to neutralize Manning's playcalling and the Pats seem to step it up a notch at home . I seem them slugging out a tough win.
Pick-New England
Monday, November 6
Raiders (2-5) @ Seahawks (4-3)
Quest Field, Seattle-8:30 (ESPN)
Favorite-Seahawks by 7.5
Its A Fact-The Raiders have won more times than the Seahawks have appeared on Monday Night (36-21)
The Raiders are feeling fine after thumping the Cards and stunning the Steelers, the fun ends in Seattle where the Seahawks, reeling after being routed by the Vikes and coming up short agains the Chiefs, with or without Shaun Alexander (likely without) the Seahawks will take advantage of the Raiders offensive weakness and roll to a solid win
Pick-Seattle
Last Week 7-7
Overall 71-43
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