After a lack of offense in week 1, I as well as many football fans, wrote off the Jets as "pretenders". With an anemic offense and the inablity to score against the Ravens, it was hard to imagine this team as having any chance at making the Super Bowl, let alone the playoffs.
Well, this is the time where I insert my foot in my mouth. gross!
Who would have thought that Sanchez actually could throw the ball? and throw it well none the less?
Two weeks in a row, the sophmore QB has been the FedEx air player of the week. Not to shabby for a QB who relied on a strong running game, stout defense, and Indy totaling laying down to carry gang green to the playoffs last year.
The Jets look like they are the toasts of the AFC East with strong wins over the Pats and Fins. And now, with the Bills comming up, it is likely that the Jets will complete the division tirfecta, improve to 3-1, and take full control of the division.
So I ask all you out there... Are the Jets really a contender here? Will Sanchez's inexperience break through or will this young star conitnue to shine bright under the lights of Broadway???
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Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Thursday, September 23, 2010
NFL Week #3 Picks - Get Em While They're Hot!
Week 3
Bengals -3 @ Panthers
Looks like the Jimmy Clausen era has officially begun. That didn’t take too long. The Panthers are a struggling team right now, while the Bengals are a team competing to win the AFC North. Look for the Bengals to take the game.
49ers -1 @ Chiefs
The 49ers and Chiefs very well could be in opposite roles right now. The Chiefs are playing like a team that they haven’t seen in years, but how long can they really play this hot streak. I think the trail stops here as the 49ers put up a good effort against the Saints last week in a bounce-back game for the D.
Lions @ Vikings -10.5
Favre and the Vikings are still winless. Who would have thought that? I’m sure this is not what he signed back up for. The Vikings just don’t seem as explosive as they did last year, even with AP running like a beast. The Vikings will win here, but they won’t cover the spread, as surprisingly the Lions are playing very impressive football.
Cowboys @ Texans -2.5
How bout them Cowboys? The better question may be how bout them Texans?? The Texans are finally playing up to their potential on both sides of the ball. The Battle of Texas will be a good one as Big D does not want to lose another game and possibly their coach, but I think the Texans will take this one.
Falcons @ Saints -3.5
The defending champs are truly playing to their form, as they are the best team in football right now. This will be their first big test of the year, as the Falcons are playing some pretty good football too. Matt Ryan and Co. will put up some points, but not enough to overcome the Saints high-powered O.
Steelers -2.5 @ Buccaneers
Three games into the season and the Steelers are on their 3rd different QB. Charlie Batch will take the reins for this game, but I don’t think it will matter for the Steelers. The Bucs are playing good football, but the ship stops here as the Steelers are a much better team than any they faced this year so far. Look for the Steelers to win in usual fashion.
Browns @ Ravens -10.5
The Ravens absolutely exploded last game, and I don’t mean that in a good way. Flacco threw about 7 picks (give or take a few) and Boldin was m.i.a. The D played decent only giving up 15 points. Look for them to bounce back here and put up some points against the lowly Browns.
Titans @ Giants -3
Was the benching of Vince Young really needed? I mean do the Titans really expect to think that Kerry Collins can still play football? CJ saw his 13 game consecutive streak of 100yd rushing come to an end with the loss to the Steelers. The Giants could not even come close to stopping Peyton, but then again that is no easy task. The G-Men will play better than last week, but look for CJ and the Titans to build a little streak of their own here.
Bills @ Patriots -14
Three weeks into the season and yes, the Bills are still garbage. I feel bad for them though. They have played some pretty tough competition and it doesn’t help that they are in the toughest division in football. That being said however, no matter who they put at QB or RB, they are still a horrid team. I wasn’t sure if the Packers could cover last week, but since they did it gives me confidence going into this game, especially with the Pats coming off a loss to the Jets.
Eagles -3 @ Jaguars
This is what I have been waiting for the last 3 years. Vick is a starter again. He is by far the most exciting player to watch in the NFL. The Eagles are coming off a shootout with the Lions, while the Jaguars just got crushed by the Chargers last week. Look for Vick and the Eagles to excite the crowd and the scoreboard.
Redskins -3.5 @ Rams
Sam Bradford has been playing surprisingly well for the Rams, probably much better than anyone expected. McNabb has been playing like the old McNabb and has given some life to the Redskins in the tough NFC East. It seems like they are the team to beat. The Rams will put up a fight, but it won’t be enough to overcome the Redskins.
Chargers -5.5 @ Seahawks
The Chargers finally played like the team that they are suppose to be, scoring in buckets against the Jaguars. Vincent Jackson or not, the Chargers are still going to be throwing the ball like crazy. If Rivers cuts down on the INT’s, he’ll have a career year. The Seahawks did a complete 180 between Week 1 and 2, as they just got decimated by the Broncos. The Chargers are going to put up similar numbers like last week and take the game.
Raiders @ Cardinals -4.5
It wasn’t long before QB’s switch in Oakland, however I don’t know if I agree with the decision. What was the point of bringing Jason Campbell in if Bruce Gradkowski is just going to start again? Analysts said that the team had more life when Gradkowski was in, so I’m gonna play along too with that. The Cardinals have yet to show anything to prove they can win a game, let along score some points.
Colts -5.5 @ Broncos
Peyton Manning seemed unstoppable against little Eli and the Giants. The Broncos D has been playing well but it’s going to be tough to stop Manning and his crew, as usual. Plus the Colts can’t fall behind the Texans in the division this early in the season.
Jets @ Dolphins -1.5
The Jets finally backed up all the talk they had during training camp and held the Patriots in check. I don’t see why they can’t do it to the Dolphins as well, considering the Dolphins are a run heavy team and the Jets have the best run D in the game. The loss of Revis won’t be that much of a factor. The Dolphins have been playing good football, but are not scoring as many points they would need to be the Jets in this game.
Packers -3 @ Bears
Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers are on a mission this year: to make the Super Bowl and they sure as hell are playing well enough to do so. This is going to be a tough test for them, as last year Rodgers struggled real badly against the Bears. Jay Cutler has been a surprise story this year so far, as he has led the Bears to a 2-0 record. This is going to be a close game, but look for the Packers to continue in their quest for the trophy.
Lock of the Week- Philadelphia Eagles
Record: 16-14-2 (7-8-1) Locks: 2 for 2
Monday, September 20, 2010
Week #2 - who saw that comming?
With week #2 of the NFL season all but a memory, I must say that this season is begining to offer some big time surprises and a resurgence of the "any given sunday" mentality.
Prime examples: Jets, Pats, Ravens, Bengals.
After looking like a pee-wee passing game throughout their first game, the Jets, behind 2nd year Sanchise, regained their winnings ways this Sunday, not only shutting down Brady's potent air attack, but letting Sanchez flash some of the potential that made him that first round pick just two drafts ago.
On the other hand, Brady and the Pats jut couldn't seem to get it working in the second half after unleashing all hell on the Bengals a week earier. Maybe Brady isn't "Tom terrifict" anymore, or maybe his O-line just needs some shipoopi.
On to the Ravens. Is Flaco color blind? I wasn't really sure if he was trying to throw it directly to the Bengals secondary or what. Now with some help from the refs, total BS calls against Lewis and Suggs, the Bengalas were able to steal a win, but with the Steelers playing tough without Big Ben, the AFC North race should been a thriller.
Big Problems in Big D
What is going on in Dallas? Seriously. 0-2 after playing the skins and da bears?? Just wait now as the Cowboy's schedule starts to get tougher and this early season SB pick could be staring at an 0-5 record. Texas, Titans and Vikings. The road to some wins does not look easy! For a team that is 4th in the league in total yards, its pretty sad to see that their 25th in points. So much for the three headed running monster too. 29th in the league in rushing yards per game at 69.5. Starting worrying Jerry, this season could become pretty bad if something doesn't happen soon.
The Vikings ship has sailed.
Favre should have stayed retired and thats that. With 1 TD pass and 4 interceptions, he is begining to look more and more like the over-the-hill QB that he is. Advice to #4. stay retired.
Don't get too excited Philly.
The lions are still the lions. It's good to get a win, but I do not see a Kolb or Vick lead team making any noise in the NFL this year, of frnakly for the next 2-3 years. Right now the NFC east is clearly up for grabs.
Don't look now, the Bucs and Cheif's are 2-0
Crazy right? Well if you're fans of either team, don't get too excite yet. Bucs really don't have a chance with the Saints and Falcons in their division, however, I wouldn't count out the Cheifs...in another 2 to 5 years, when they are finally done rebuilding their team.
Pure excitement so far. So many questions and so few answer so far in this early season preview. Numerous teams continue to have monumental problems, however, my SB pick Packers are flying high on cruise control. The Texans are looking like a playoff team and the Chargers turned things around with an impressive win. The season is shaping up to be something exciting, so don't blink.
Prime examples: Jets, Pats, Ravens, Bengals.
After looking like a pee-wee passing game throughout their first game, the Jets, behind 2nd year Sanchise, regained their winnings ways this Sunday, not only shutting down Brady's potent air attack, but letting Sanchez flash some of the potential that made him that first round pick just two drafts ago.
On the other hand, Brady and the Pats jut couldn't seem to get it working in the second half after unleashing all hell on the Bengals a week earier. Maybe Brady isn't "Tom terrifict" anymore, or maybe his O-line just needs some shipoopi.
On to the Ravens. Is Flaco color blind? I wasn't really sure if he was trying to throw it directly to the Bengals secondary or what. Now with some help from the refs, total BS calls against Lewis and Suggs, the Bengalas were able to steal a win, but with the Steelers playing tough without Big Ben, the AFC North race should been a thriller.
Big Problems in Big D
What is going on in Dallas? Seriously. 0-2 after playing the skins and da bears?? Just wait now as the Cowboy's schedule starts to get tougher and this early season SB pick could be staring at an 0-5 record. Texas, Titans and Vikings. The road to some wins does not look easy! For a team that is 4th in the league in total yards, its pretty sad to see that their 25th in points. So much for the three headed running monster too. 29th in the league in rushing yards per game at 69.5. Starting worrying Jerry, this season could become pretty bad if something doesn't happen soon.
The Vikings ship has sailed.
Favre should have stayed retired and thats that. With 1 TD pass and 4 interceptions, he is begining to look more and more like the over-the-hill QB that he is. Advice to #4. stay retired.
Don't get too excited Philly.
The lions are still the lions. It's good to get a win, but I do not see a Kolb or Vick lead team making any noise in the NFL this year, of frnakly for the next 2-3 years. Right now the NFC east is clearly up for grabs.
Don't look now, the Bucs and Cheif's are 2-0
Crazy right? Well if you're fans of either team, don't get too excite yet. Bucs really don't have a chance with the Saints and Falcons in their division, however, I wouldn't count out the Cheifs...in another 2 to 5 years, when they are finally done rebuilding their team.
Pure excitement so far. So many questions and so few answer so far in this early season preview. Numerous teams continue to have monumental problems, however, my SB pick Packers are flying high on cruise control. The Texans are looking like a playoff team and the Chargers turned things around with an impressive win. The season is shaping up to be something exciting, so don't blink.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
NFL Week #2 Picks
Here they are folks! Your Week #2 NFL Pciks!
Week 2
Eagles -5 @ Lions
The late second loss for the Lions will be disappointing, however I don’t think they can bounce back against a Vick-leaded Eagles offense. He looked good when he came in for the injured Kolb. This should be an exciting game to watch from the Eagles perspective.
Bears @ Cowboys -9
Cutler had an exciting game, as he was second in passing yards in the NFL in Week 1, but that was against the Lions. The Cowboys were below par in their performance against the Skins, and should be looking to bounce back and score some points against the Bears, however this spread may be too much for them to cover
Buccaneers @ Panthers -3
Matt Moore had too many turnovers for the Panthers, as the Jimmy Clausen era may be coming sooner than people think. Their run game looked good against the Giants but I think the Bucs will surprise here, trying to go 2-0.
Chiefs @ Browns -2
Gotta give props to the Chiefs D and special teams that looked awesome against the high-powered offense of the Chargers. The Browns didn’t do anything impressive in Week 1, in what I thought would be a win, against the Bucs. Look for the Chiefs to win the game, without the help of points if they play like last week.
Cardinals @ Falcons -7
It was a tough loss for the Falcons last week against the Steelers. The Cardinals just squeaked by the Rams last week. Look for Roddy White to have another monster game against the Cardinals.
Dolphins @ Vikings -6
The Dolphins held up my Lock Pick for Week 1 by being granted an intentional safety, as they beat the Bills. I thought they would handle them easily and put up more points. The Vikings on the other hand had no problem putting up points against the Saints solid D and should have no problem here.
Steelers @ Titans -5.5
CJ seemed to pick up where he left off from last year, having another monster game. The Steelers won an OT thriller on a Mendenhall 50-yd rush, which really surprised me. The Steelers D is still good, but look for CJ to have another good game in the Titans home opener.
Ravens -1.5 @ Bengals
Seems like the Ravens shocked the world when they beat the Jets last week. They didn’t shock me, in the low-scoring defensive trench war. Rice did not have a productive game, but who would against the Jets D, besides Boldin that is who had 100+yds. The Bengals had a shootout with the Patriots, but look for the Ravens here, especially with this low spread.
Bills @ Packers -14
These games are always tough to pick because a two touchdown spread is a tough swing either way. I’m taking the Packers here because let’s face it, the Bills are still garbage. Rodgers will recover from last week and Jackson will have no problem replacing Grant this week against a lowly Bills D.
Seahawks @ Broncos -3.5
The Pete Carol led Seahawks put up surprising points against a solid 49ers D in Week 1. Hasselback looked like the QB of old, while at the same time Orton for the Broncos put up a near 300yd passing game. Let’s see if the Seahawks can keep it rolling, getting some points here.
Rams @ Raiders -3.5
Campbell will do some good for the Raiders, who have desperately needed a solid QB after Rich Ganon retired (what a name drop). Their home here too so that will help and their also playing the Rams, which helped even more.
Jaguars @ Chargers -7.5
I’m not going to make excuses for the Chargers performance last week, but all I will say that it is tough to throw the ball 40 times in a game with a heavy downpour in your face. Just saying. The Jaguars will be a tough Week 2 opponent as the Chargers have had trouble stopping the run and MJD is as good as anyone in the league. Look for Rivers and the Bolts to bounce back and have a big game to get back to even.
Patriots -2 @ Jets
So Mark Sanchize thinks the Jets are going 15-1 the rest of the way? I don’t think so. They’ll be lucky if they can win 2 games in the next 5 weeks. Their D looked as good as advertised, but it’s that struggling O led by the Sanchize himself that will have Mike Tannenbaum pulling more of his hair out then he did during the Revis negotiations. Looks for Brady and the Pats to squeeze by here.
Texans -3 @ Redskins
What a performance by the Texans. They really surprised everyone by putting the numbers up they did against the Colts. McNabb looked McNabb-like against the Cowboys last week, but I don’t think it will be good enough here. Look for the Texans to stay on a role and make some noise from this week out.
Giants @ Colts -6
Manning v. Manning. A match-up that will be sure to excite Archie beyond belief, I’m sure. A better question to ask then who is going to win the game should be, who will Archie cheer for. Will he play both sides of the fence, or will be take a stand and cheer for his non-retarded looking son? That’s Peyton by the way. Peyton’s pissed about losing to the Texans I’m sure. If he put up 400+yds in that game, imagine what he will do against Eli and the Giants? 500+?? Don’t be surprised if he puts up numbers like Week 1 again.
Saints -6 @ 49ers
The Saints looked good against the Vikings in Week 1. The 49ers on the other hand, did not look good against the Seahawks. I wish Alex Smith the best as he has been through a lot in his life, but he needs to play like he did in the final weeks of the season last year if he wants to keep his job. The 49ers D also went M.I.A. They’ll show up here, but not enough to stop the Saints.
Lock of the Week- Kansas City Chiefs
Record: 9-6-1 (9-6-1)
Week 2
Eagles -5 @ Lions
The late second loss for the Lions will be disappointing, however I don’t think they can bounce back against a Vick-leaded Eagles offense. He looked good when he came in for the injured Kolb. This should be an exciting game to watch from the Eagles perspective.
Bears @ Cowboys -9
Cutler had an exciting game, as he was second in passing yards in the NFL in Week 1, but that was against the Lions. The Cowboys were below par in their performance against the Skins, and should be looking to bounce back and score some points against the Bears, however this spread may be too much for them to cover
Buccaneers @ Panthers -3
Matt Moore had too many turnovers for the Panthers, as the Jimmy Clausen era may be coming sooner than people think. Their run game looked good against the Giants but I think the Bucs will surprise here, trying to go 2-0.
Chiefs @ Browns -2
Gotta give props to the Chiefs D and special teams that looked awesome against the high-powered offense of the Chargers. The Browns didn’t do anything impressive in Week 1, in what I thought would be a win, against the Bucs. Look for the Chiefs to win the game, without the help of points if they play like last week.
Cardinals @ Falcons -7
It was a tough loss for the Falcons last week against the Steelers. The Cardinals just squeaked by the Rams last week. Look for Roddy White to have another monster game against the Cardinals.
Dolphins @ Vikings -6
The Dolphins held up my Lock Pick for Week 1 by being granted an intentional safety, as they beat the Bills. I thought they would handle them easily and put up more points. The Vikings on the other hand had no problem putting up points against the Saints solid D and should have no problem here.
Steelers @ Titans -5.5
CJ seemed to pick up where he left off from last year, having another monster game. The Steelers won an OT thriller on a Mendenhall 50-yd rush, which really surprised me. The Steelers D is still good, but look for CJ to have another good game in the Titans home opener.
Ravens -1.5 @ Bengals
Seems like the Ravens shocked the world when they beat the Jets last week. They didn’t shock me, in the low-scoring defensive trench war. Rice did not have a productive game, but who would against the Jets D, besides Boldin that is who had 100+yds. The Bengals had a shootout with the Patriots, but look for the Ravens here, especially with this low spread.
Bills @ Packers -14
These games are always tough to pick because a two touchdown spread is a tough swing either way. I’m taking the Packers here because let’s face it, the Bills are still garbage. Rodgers will recover from last week and Jackson will have no problem replacing Grant this week against a lowly Bills D.
Seahawks @ Broncos -3.5
The Pete Carol led Seahawks put up surprising points against a solid 49ers D in Week 1. Hasselback looked like the QB of old, while at the same time Orton for the Broncos put up a near 300yd passing game. Let’s see if the Seahawks can keep it rolling, getting some points here.
Rams @ Raiders -3.5
Campbell will do some good for the Raiders, who have desperately needed a solid QB after Rich Ganon retired (what a name drop). Their home here too so that will help and their also playing the Rams, which helped even more.
Jaguars @ Chargers -7.5
I’m not going to make excuses for the Chargers performance last week, but all I will say that it is tough to throw the ball 40 times in a game with a heavy downpour in your face. Just saying. The Jaguars will be a tough Week 2 opponent as the Chargers have had trouble stopping the run and MJD is as good as anyone in the league. Look for Rivers and the Bolts to bounce back and have a big game to get back to even.
Patriots -2 @ Jets
So Mark Sanchize thinks the Jets are going 15-1 the rest of the way? I don’t think so. They’ll be lucky if they can win 2 games in the next 5 weeks. Their D looked as good as advertised, but it’s that struggling O led by the Sanchize himself that will have Mike Tannenbaum pulling more of his hair out then he did during the Revis negotiations. Looks for Brady and the Pats to squeeze by here.
Texans -3 @ Redskins
What a performance by the Texans. They really surprised everyone by putting the numbers up they did against the Colts. McNabb looked McNabb-like against the Cowboys last week, but I don’t think it will be good enough here. Look for the Texans to stay on a role and make some noise from this week out.
Giants @ Colts -6
Manning v. Manning. A match-up that will be sure to excite Archie beyond belief, I’m sure. A better question to ask then who is going to win the game should be, who will Archie cheer for. Will he play both sides of the fence, or will be take a stand and cheer for his non-retarded looking son? That’s Peyton by the way. Peyton’s pissed about losing to the Texans I’m sure. If he put up 400+yds in that game, imagine what he will do against Eli and the Giants? 500+?? Don’t be surprised if he puts up numbers like Week 1 again.
Saints -6 @ 49ers
The Saints looked good against the Vikings in Week 1. The 49ers on the other hand, did not look good against the Seahawks. I wish Alex Smith the best as he has been through a lot in his life, but he needs to play like he did in the final weeks of the season last year if he wants to keep his job. The 49ers D also went M.I.A. They’ll show up here, but not enough to stop the Saints.
Lock of the Week- Kansas City Chiefs
Record: 9-6-1 (9-6-1)
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Hip Hip Jorge!
Yankees blow a 6 run lead only to be bailed out by a pinch-hit home run in the 10th!
After cruising for 4+ innings to the tune of a 6-0 lead, the Yankees hit a big speed bump, with the Rays scoring 7 runs before the end of the frame to quickly take a 1 run lead. With Big Bat Cano continuing his monster year, the Yankees were able to tie the game up and force extra innings, free baseball for the fans if you will, to finally see themselves win a nail bitter, a feat that they have recently been unable to figure out.
With stellar pitching from the likes of Joba, Wood, Robertson, and of course, Mo, to go along with spectacular defensive plays by Golson and Granerson in the outfield, the Yankees were able to fight back, holding down the Ray’s explosive line up and taking the game and once again the ½ game lead in the division.
The frustrating thing about this game was how the Yankees handled the lead when they were up big. Blowing a 6-0 lead in one inning to your closest rival is not acceptable. Girardi appear to go against his better judgment (Bench Coach Pena had him leave in Nova for 1 extra batter) and next thing you know, the Rays, with one swing of the bat, are up a run. Frustrating? You bet! Tell me why Girardi would let the youngster stay in there when there are 3 lefties due up in a row and Boone Logan ready to go in the pen? At that time Logan had 25 consecutive appearances without giving up a run. Poor management? You bet. Something that the Yankees seem to experience more often than not.
On the verge of possibility suffering their 4th walk off win in the last 5 games, the Yankees got a much needed reprieve from Jorge, when, with none out in the 10th, he stepped up as a pinch hitter and sent Wheeler’s 2-0 offering way outta there! What a shot! Now with this win, hopefully the Yankees can come out of their recent funk (lost 7 out of past 9) and get on track for the playoffs. Their bullpen appears to be shaping up and with Andy due back on Sunday and AJ pitching like his old self, the rotation should start to click on all cylinders again.
My concerns now are simply, lack of timely hitting of late and poor management. Good for Girardi that he won the World Series last year, isn’t that expected with such a high profile team? He seriously needs to figure out what moves to make and when to make them before the only move he makes is getting off the couch during the playoffs to get something from the kitchen!
The Yankees are the team to beat, but only if they can keep their manager from beating them first!
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
NFL Week # 1…The Verdict
Not so bad for the first week, finishing with a solid record of 9-6-1.
The Expected:
The Jets D was stellar, but yet again their offense resembled a middle of the pack D1 program. The Ravens are a legit D to go up against, but if you can’t put more than 9 points up on the board when your own D is giving you such great field position, then how do you expect to live up to your Super Bowl fantasy?
Lions show improvement. Despite the loss (total BS there), the Lions did keep the Bears from covering and showed some significant improvement with second year QB Stafford at the helm. Questions surround this team now that Stafford may be sidelines, but backup Sean Hill did lead an impressive drive that came one booth review away from a winning TD.
Texans are a playoff contender. Whereas no one expected the Texas to absolutely beat up on the Colts, it is clear that this team is legit, with a solid defense, good QB, power running back and one of the top three receivers in the game. Possible that this team takes the division, not just earns a wildcard spot.
Chris Johnson is amazing…not much more to say here. Another 75+ yard TD run and this guy shows why he is the consensus #1 fantasy player. Piles up stats on and off the field and allows Vince Young to play with
confidence.
The Shockers:
The Pete Carroll era has begun with a bang and who ever would have expected the Seahawks to blow out the Niners like that?? Shockers on both ends here. Are the Seahawks the new team to beat in the West or did the Niners forget that they were supposed to be playing football on Sunday? Time will tell here, but I would keep an eye on this division race.
Chargers and Cowboys inability to get in the end zone. Both teams have high powered offenses and should have won this week. I conclude that they will both be playoff teams come season end, but with such efficiency at the QB position this week, these teams need to figure out how to finish off drives with TDs. I would be more worried about the play calling in Big D then anything else.
The Stupid:
Jets for running their mouths before they had a chance to see what their anemic offense could actually do in a game
Cowboys coaching staff for that horrible play selection at the end of the first half.
Conclusion:
Week one offered some exciting moments as well as some not so exciting moments (Jets vs Ravens, Falcons vs Steelers). Yawn! The season is definitely shaping up to offer some new teams a chance at playoff glory, but until week #17, this guy is not going to make any predictions.. Just kidding
AFC: Chargers, Colts, Ravens, Pats, Titans, Texans
NFG: Niners, Packers, Saints, Cowboys, Vikings, Giants
Stay posted…week #2 picks will be ready soon.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Title on the Line! Yanks, Rays Series Preview
With first place on the line, the Yanks and Rays should offer an exciting showdown.
Game #1: Sabathia vs. Price.
In what might be the showdown for the AL CY Young, the first game appears to be the marquee pitching show down. In his career, Sabathia has an 8-4 record, with an ERA of 3.08 vs Tampa Bay while Price is 2-1, with a 3.98 ERA. This one appears too close to call, however, I would imagine Sabathia will come out strong to account for his poor showing against Baltimore at home, which ended his 21 game undefeated streak at home. I give the slight edge to the Yankees here, but would imagine a maring of 2 runs or less.
Prediction: Yankees 5 and Rays 4.
Player of the game: Jeter (2-5) with 2 runs, a double and RBI.
Game #2: Nova vs. Garza
The rookie with the live arm against a proven winner. Nova possess a sizzling fastball and sharp breaker, while Garza has already tossed one hitter this year, with the ability to shut down any offense. I would take experience over talent in this one, as Nova has yet to experience the pressure that comes with a playoff push, but would not discount the Yanks from stealing this one as Garza has been nothing special of late and has bad numbers against the Yanks historically.
Game #3: Hughes vs. Shields.
Phil needs to rebound and based on his recent bullpen appearance in Texas, it looks as if his command is back. Shields has had an unimpressive year and is a back end guy for the Ray. I would take Hughes in this one as I see a high scoring game, with the Yankees bats carrying them to victory. Let’s not forget, Phil gets some of the best run support on average.
Prediction:
Yankees take 2 out of 3 and pad their lead to 1.5 in the East before they take the trip up to Baltimore.
Game #1: Sabathia vs. Price.
In what might be the showdown for the AL CY Young, the first game appears to be the marquee pitching show down. In his career, Sabathia has an 8-4 record, with an ERA of 3.08 vs Tampa Bay while Price is 2-1, with a 3.98 ERA. This one appears too close to call, however, I would imagine Sabathia will come out strong to account for his poor showing against Baltimore at home, which ended his 21 game undefeated streak at home. I give the slight edge to the Yankees here, but would imagine a maring of 2 runs or less.
Prediction: Yankees 5 and Rays 4.
Player of the game: Jeter (2-5) with 2 runs, a double and RBI.
Game #2: Nova vs. Garza
The rookie with the live arm against a proven winner. Nova possess a sizzling fastball and sharp breaker, while Garza has already tossed one hitter this year, with the ability to shut down any offense. I would take experience over talent in this one, as Nova has yet to experience the pressure that comes with a playoff push, but would not discount the Yanks from stealing this one as Garza has been nothing special of late and has bad numbers against the Yanks historically.
Game #3: Hughes vs. Shields.
Phil needs to rebound and based on his recent bullpen appearance in Texas, it looks as if his command is back. Shields has had an unimpressive year and is a back end guy for the Ray. I would take Hughes in this one as I see a high scoring game, with the Yankees bats carrying them to victory. Let’s not forget, Phil gets some of the best run support on average.
Prediction:
Yankees take 2 out of 3 and pad their lead to 1.5 in the East before they take the trip up to Baltimore.
Fantasy Island: Winning your NHL Draft
With the recent series of blog posts over on the Puck Daddy Blog on Yahoo! Sports dealing with the Professional fantasy philosophy, I’ve decided to teach you a little thing or two about how to win your not so professional league. Therefore, for all your fantasy stars, I offer you a guide for the 2010 fantasy hockey draft!
Ever wonder why the same person ends up winning the league year after year after year? It’s because he knows what he’s doing, and knows how he’s going to end up doing it. Drafting for any fantasy league is a tricky task which some handle with ease, while some spend countless hours researching to try to find out who will be the best to choose. There is no set way to go, but there are different ways to go about it which will ultimately be successful. After being in the top 3 of every fantasy hockey league I’ve been in for the last 4 years, I can safely say that these tricks/hints can help lead you to fantasy greatness.
Draft Philosophy- There are countless philosophies used when drafting in leagues. My personal philosophy is to draft 1 player per position until I have 1 player to fill each position, and from then on its drafting the best available. Every sport has certain positions that are deeper than others, in hockey it’s the center position. The only time you should open a draft with a center is if he’s a game changer like Sidney Crosby, Henrik Sedin, or Joe Thornton. If there are no game changers available, start out by drafting a right wing. There are only about 10 legitimate right wings in the NHL, and it’s the position with the least depth out of all. From there, I would draft a defenseman, because after the top 5 or 7 offensive defensemen, the point totals drop considerably. Everybody has a different philosophy, and everything changes when you find your draft order, and see what everyone before you has done. The most important thing is to know what you want, and know what you’re going to do, and what’s most important when drafting.
Win the Bottom of the Draft- Any yahoo coming in off the street can draft well in the beginning of the draft; that’s why god invented pre-draft rankings. However, it takes serious knowledge of any sport to be able to draft well in the bottom of the draft, and ultimately, this is what could make or break your team. Keeping in mind the players that are underappreciated or the ones that are ranked low due to an injury riddled season, can put your team over the top. This past season, Steven Stamkos went undrafted in one of my leagues, and he ended up tying for the Rocket Richard. Another example would be a player like Mike Comrie. This year, he’s slated to play with Sidney Crosby on the Penguins top line. He’s had two previous 30 goal seasons, but he’s so underappreciated that very few people will draft him. Even though Sidney Crosby has only meshed with 3 wingers in his entire career, Comrie is definitely worth a low round pick.
Stay away from bad teams- If your league only records points, then this shouldn’t matter. However, if your league’s scoring is deeper, and includes plus/minus, among other things, you can’t afford to pick players from bad teams. If you do, you will automatically lose plus/minus every single week. I usually pay attention to a team’s off season moves to try to figure out where they will land in the standings. This year, for me at least, Carolina, Edmonton, and New York (both teams) are going to be off limits for me. None of these 4 teams have much to offer in terms of fantasy relevance. Granted, there’s Hemsky, and the Staals, but it isn’t worth it to be a top 3 team, while being the worst team in the league in any statistic.
Have a Go To Guy- This is something that I find to be fairly important when drafting. You have to find a player that you like, worthy of a draft choice, but isn’t one of the best in the league. Players like Sidney Crosby and Dany Heatley aren’t very good ‘go to’ guys. This is because you cannot draft Crosby unless you have a favorable draft position, and Heater can be anywhere from a 1st rounder to a 3rd, depending on the depth of your league, and you don’t want to choose a go to guy when there are better choices available. The ideal go to guy, is a guy who is very underrated, on a team very few people hear about or is on a team full of superstars, and has a high potential. My personal ‘go to guy’ is James Neal of the Dallas Stars. He has the potential to score 30 goals, not very well known, and most importantly is another guy that can help you win the bottom of your draft. Originally, my ‘go to guy’ was Sean Avery, but when Gary Bettman decided Avery had to be neutered, he not only removed his manhood but also his fantasy viability.
KNOW THE SPORT- This is by far the most important thing in any fantasy league. In order to be most successful, you have to know the sport, and regularly keep up with the news and injury updates. If you draft Crosby and Pronger, and Pronger decides to deliver the peoples elbow unto Crosby’s forehead, and Sid gets a concussion and Pronger a suspension, there is no warning message on fantasy leagues that say to drop them both, or not to play them. Following the sport allows you to keep up with what’s going on, and to drop/add appropriately, or at least to know not to start Sid and Pronger.
Ever wonder why the same person ends up winning the league year after year after year? It’s because he knows what he’s doing, and knows how he’s going to end up doing it. Drafting for any fantasy league is a tricky task which some handle with ease, while some spend countless hours researching to try to find out who will be the best to choose. There is no set way to go, but there are different ways to go about it which will ultimately be successful. After being in the top 3 of every fantasy hockey league I’ve been in for the last 4 years, I can safely say that these tricks/hints can help lead you to fantasy greatness.
Draft Philosophy- There are countless philosophies used when drafting in leagues. My personal philosophy is to draft 1 player per position until I have 1 player to fill each position, and from then on its drafting the best available. Every sport has certain positions that are deeper than others, in hockey it’s the center position. The only time you should open a draft with a center is if he’s a game changer like Sidney Crosby, Henrik Sedin, or Joe Thornton. If there are no game changers available, start out by drafting a right wing. There are only about 10 legitimate right wings in the NHL, and it’s the position with the least depth out of all. From there, I would draft a defenseman, because after the top 5 or 7 offensive defensemen, the point totals drop considerably. Everybody has a different philosophy, and everything changes when you find your draft order, and see what everyone before you has done. The most important thing is to know what you want, and know what you’re going to do, and what’s most important when drafting.
Win the Bottom of the Draft- Any yahoo coming in off the street can draft well in the beginning of the draft; that’s why god invented pre-draft rankings. However, it takes serious knowledge of any sport to be able to draft well in the bottom of the draft, and ultimately, this is what could make or break your team. Keeping in mind the players that are underappreciated or the ones that are ranked low due to an injury riddled season, can put your team over the top. This past season, Steven Stamkos went undrafted in one of my leagues, and he ended up tying for the Rocket Richard. Another example would be a player like Mike Comrie. This year, he’s slated to play with Sidney Crosby on the Penguins top line. He’s had two previous 30 goal seasons, but he’s so underappreciated that very few people will draft him. Even though Sidney Crosby has only meshed with 3 wingers in his entire career, Comrie is definitely worth a low round pick.
Stay away from bad teams- If your league only records points, then this shouldn’t matter. However, if your league’s scoring is deeper, and includes plus/minus, among other things, you can’t afford to pick players from bad teams. If you do, you will automatically lose plus/minus every single week. I usually pay attention to a team’s off season moves to try to figure out where they will land in the standings. This year, for me at least, Carolina, Edmonton, and New York (both teams) are going to be off limits for me. None of these 4 teams have much to offer in terms of fantasy relevance. Granted, there’s Hemsky, and the Staals, but it isn’t worth it to be a top 3 team, while being the worst team in the league in any statistic.
Have a Go To Guy- This is something that I find to be fairly important when drafting. You have to find a player that you like, worthy of a draft choice, but isn’t one of the best in the league. Players like Sidney Crosby and Dany Heatley aren’t very good ‘go to’ guys. This is because you cannot draft Crosby unless you have a favorable draft position, and Heater can be anywhere from a 1st rounder to a 3rd, depending on the depth of your league, and you don’t want to choose a go to guy when there are better choices available. The ideal go to guy, is a guy who is very underrated, on a team very few people hear about or is on a team full of superstars, and has a high potential. My personal ‘go to guy’ is James Neal of the Dallas Stars. He has the potential to score 30 goals, not very well known, and most importantly is another guy that can help you win the bottom of your draft. Originally, my ‘go to guy’ was Sean Avery, but when Gary Bettman decided Avery had to be neutered, he not only removed his manhood but also his fantasy viability.
KNOW THE SPORT- This is by far the most important thing in any fantasy league. In order to be most successful, you have to know the sport, and regularly keep up with the news and injury updates. If you draft Crosby and Pronger, and Pronger decides to deliver the peoples elbow unto Crosby’s forehead, and Sid gets a concussion and Pronger a suspension, there is no warning message on fantasy leagues that say to drop them both, or not to play them. Following the sport allows you to keep up with what’s going on, and to drop/add appropriately, or at least to know not to start Sid and Pronger.
Despite Clutch Hitting, Yankees falter on doorstep of Victory.
On a warm night in Texas, the Yankees showed their resiliency, but came up short to yet another walk off win in Texas.
Despite the loss, I think that the Yankees can definitely take some big positives away from this disheartening loss.
Pitching:
Despite Mo’s blown save, it is hard to fault him for the loss, after throwing 2 strong innings the night before. Mo is Mo and he is human. Poor performances happen, and though he did get the loss, if there is one pitcher in the Yankees bullpen that I am not worried about come postseason time, it is definitely him. Mo is a hall of famer, with what? 3 or 4 blown saves this year? Most closers blow that many come the all star break! The set up men, with the exception of Kerry Wood (great pick up there), may be a reason for concern, but Mo is the anchor that continues to dishearten opposing teams come the 9th inning.
AJ tossed another strong performance. Though the rain delay cut into outing, he was able to throw strikes, with good command, and control the potent Ranger’s offense.
Batting:
What a comeback, with clutch hitting by Arod! Clutch performance becomes key as the calendar rolls into September, and with Arod getting hot going into the playoffs, I am very excited to see what kind of run the Yankees can make. Both the Yankees and Rangers showed god resiliency, with multiple lead changes, and I cannot wait to see what the Yanks are going to offer come playoff time!
Conclusion:
The AL East race has become tight again, but do not be fooled. The Yankees are a playoff team with all the pieces starting to fall into place. Andy is making a promising comeback, with CC anchoring the staff and AJ starting to regain his composure. The performance of Jeter has become a concern, but you can always rely on Captain Clutch when the time comes. Do I see the Yankees as a repeat World Series champion? To early to tell! I say let’s see how the rest of the month goes, but they are no doubt at the top of the contender list!
Despite the loss, I think that the Yankees can definitely take some big positives away from this disheartening loss.
Pitching:
Despite Mo’s blown save, it is hard to fault him for the loss, after throwing 2 strong innings the night before. Mo is Mo and he is human. Poor performances happen, and though he did get the loss, if there is one pitcher in the Yankees bullpen that I am not worried about come postseason time, it is definitely him. Mo is a hall of famer, with what? 3 or 4 blown saves this year? Most closers blow that many come the all star break! The set up men, with the exception of Kerry Wood (great pick up there), may be a reason for concern, but Mo is the anchor that continues to dishearten opposing teams come the 9th inning.
AJ tossed another strong performance. Though the rain delay cut into outing, he was able to throw strikes, with good command, and control the potent Ranger’s offense.
Batting:
What a comeback, with clutch hitting by Arod! Clutch performance becomes key as the calendar rolls into September, and with Arod getting hot going into the playoffs, I am very excited to see what kind of run the Yankees can make. Both the Yankees and Rangers showed god resiliency, with multiple lead changes, and I cannot wait to see what the Yanks are going to offer come playoff time!
Conclusion:
The AL East race has become tight again, but do not be fooled. The Yankees are a playoff team with all the pieces starting to fall into place. Andy is making a promising comeback, with CC anchoring the staff and AJ starting to regain his composure. The performance of Jeter has become a concern, but you can always rely on Captain Clutch when the time comes. Do I see the Yankees as a repeat World Series champion? To early to tell! I say let’s see how the rest of the month goes, but they are no doubt at the top of the contender list!
Friday, September 10, 2010
The Buck Stops Here!
Pretenders or Contenders? Orioles 2011.
Ever since the departure of Ripken, the Baltimore Orioles have been finding themselves to be consistent dwellers in the AL East cellar, finishing below.500 every year since in ’98. But if you have happened to catch an Orioles game of late, this team no longer looks like the bunch that had a pitiful 64 wins through ’09 and had only 29 wins up until this year’s All-Star break.
Call it the “Buck” effect if you will, but ever since Buck Showalter took over the reins of this flailing ball club, the Orioles have been playing some of the hottest baseball. With a record of 21-14, Showalter has revived life into a once lifeless team, which has the same basic personnel as it did before the arrival of Showalter. After the first week, when the Orioles put together a modest 3 game winning streak, it was easy to write this off as coincidence. But now, with a .600 record over a 35 game span (22% of the season), it is clear to see that not only do the O’s have some talent, but with the right man at the helm, they could pose a formidable opponent in the tough race for the AL East crown.
Now, there is no way to explain exactly what has happened here, but the Orioles young and talented center filed, Adman Jones summed it up best with the following quote
"I think what's really going on is everyone knows his reputation as a hard-ass. He's going to get on you for doing this, he's going to say something about everything. I think that's actually worked. Hey, let's get it done. You might as well. You don't want him on you. I think that's the approach a lot of guys are taking. Hey, let him sit in there with that scowl. If it works, it works.
"It's just that his presence, well, you can just feel the change coming. He's been on some winning ballclubs, he knows what it takes. Everybody knows his reputation around here. They know it as someone who's going to get on you, and it's working for us."
Scared much? You Bet!
Buck is a proven winner and highly regarded baseball personality. He has brought a tough, old-school attitude to Baltimore, knowing ho w to deal with a young team and maximize potential. The Orioles impressive turnaround has made me start thinking that they could finally post a winning record for the ‘2011 season, with the chance of flexing some muscle in next year’s race for the AL East crown if they can shore up some spots in their bull pen and maybe add one good veteran starter.
Do I foresee a World Series contender in this team? Well, not for at least 5-10 years. But what I do see is a young, solid core, that with proper guidance, could turn around this team and review the once stroried baseball tradition in Baltimore.
Prediction for 2011: Orioles finish 4th in the division with anywhere from 75-85 wins. I would put them at 83 and 81.
Ever since the departure of Ripken, the Baltimore Orioles have been finding themselves to be consistent dwellers in the AL East cellar, finishing below.500 every year since in ’98. But if you have happened to catch an Orioles game of late, this team no longer looks like the bunch that had a pitiful 64 wins through ’09 and had only 29 wins up until this year’s All-Star break.
Call it the “Buck” effect if you will, but ever since Buck Showalter took over the reins of this flailing ball club, the Orioles have been playing some of the hottest baseball. With a record of 21-14, Showalter has revived life into a once lifeless team, which has the same basic personnel as it did before the arrival of Showalter. After the first week, when the Orioles put together a modest 3 game winning streak, it was easy to write this off as coincidence. But now, with a .600 record over a 35 game span (22% of the season), it is clear to see that not only do the O’s have some talent, but with the right man at the helm, they could pose a formidable opponent in the tough race for the AL East crown.
Now, there is no way to explain exactly what has happened here, but the Orioles young and talented center filed, Adman Jones summed it up best with the following quote
"I think what's really going on is everyone knows his reputation as a hard-ass. He's going to get on you for doing this, he's going to say something about everything. I think that's actually worked. Hey, let's get it done. You might as well. You don't want him on you. I think that's the approach a lot of guys are taking. Hey, let him sit in there with that scowl. If it works, it works.
"It's just that his presence, well, you can just feel the change coming. He's been on some winning ballclubs, he knows what it takes. Everybody knows his reputation around here. They know it as someone who's going to get on you, and it's working for us."
Scared much? You Bet!
Buck is a proven winner and highly regarded baseball personality. He has brought a tough, old-school attitude to Baltimore, knowing ho w to deal with a young team and maximize potential. The Orioles impressive turnaround has made me start thinking that they could finally post a winning record for the ‘2011 season, with the chance of flexing some muscle in next year’s race for the AL East crown if they can shore up some spots in their bull pen and maybe add one good veteran starter.
Do I foresee a World Series contender in this team? Well, not for at least 5-10 years. But what I do see is a young, solid core, that with proper guidance, could turn around this team and review the once stroried baseball tradition in Baltimore.
Prediction for 2011: Orioles finish 4th in the division with anywhere from 75-85 wins. I would put them at 83 and 81.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Jets or Giants Stadium? You Make the Call!
The classic debate for New York Football.
Who’s stadium is it? The New York Jets or the New York Giants.
In recent history, I would have to say it belongs to the Giants! Super bowl victors in 87, 91 and 2008 compared to the Jets lone victory with Broadway Joe in 1969.
However, with the Jets resurgence last year, loud mouth coach in Rex Ryan, and trip to the AFC championship , the scales may be starting to tip in their favor.
If Eli can right the ship this year and return the Giants to their winning ways, I think they retain the crown as the top team in New York, but if Rex’s wrecking crew smash mouth D can keep the Jets rolling, they just may become the premier show in the area.
I’ll leave this one up for debate..so you make the call.
Who’s stadium is it? The New York Jets or the New York Giants.
In recent history, I would have to say it belongs to the Giants! Super bowl victors in 87, 91 and 2008 compared to the Jets lone victory with Broadway Joe in 1969.
However, with the Jets resurgence last year, loud mouth coach in Rex Ryan, and trip to the AFC championship , the scales may be starting to tip in their favor.
If Eli can right the ship this year and return the Giants to their winning ways, I think they retain the crown as the top team in New York, but if Rex’s wrecking crew smash mouth D can keep the Jets rolling, they just may become the premier show in the area.
I’ll leave this one up for debate..so you make the call.
Captain Clutch or Captain Crutch?
Derek Jeter...A season to remember???
As any baseball fan, with some knowledge of the game knows, Derek Jeter has been the face of New York Yankees baseball for over the past decade. Jeter is the captain of the best baseball team known to man, with more championships than any other (25% of all world series titles) and more than the next three teams combined (Cardinals -10, A’s -9, Red Sox – 7).
Over the years, NY sports fans have been accustomed to Jeter getting the big hit when it counts, or making the big play (see “the flip”). However, despite starting off the 2010 in is patented Jetarian style, Derek has had an offensive season to forget.
Going into the stretch run of the 2010 playoff push, Jeter is batting an unimpressive .268, with a .328 OBP. These numbers, combined with his proficiency into hitting into double plays, have somewhat softened the Yankees potent offense, while cutting rallies short and limiting scoring opportunities. Combine this low average with the fact that he appears to be well below his career averages in homers (17) and RBIs (80) and it looks like Jeter may soon be facing the end of his playing career.
The end in sight?
Not one time since his rookie year has Jeter ever batted under .290 for a season (career .314), and despite his lackluster performance at the plate this year, at 36, he appears to have hopefully a few more years left in him. The Yankees drafted what they are hoping to be the future of their infield with SS picks in the first and second rounds (see Cito Culver and Angelo Gumbs). These players are still light-years away from seeing any Major League action, and when you combine that with Jeter’s stellar defensive year (6 errors through 137 games), it appears that he may still have some more years to go wearing pin stripes.
The question rattling around in my brain is…Will the Yankees keep paying Jeter the big bucks if he can’t perform. With contract negotiations looming after this season, I cannot imagine how the Yankees would be willing to (A) part with Jeter or (B) Pay him the $22.6mm that he is currently getting. It is obvious that, there will need to be some type of mutual agreement here and my hope is that both the Yankees and Jeter realize that there is still some value in their relationship, just at a lower price.
Make no mistakes about it. Jeter wants his money, but he is a competitor, and I would bet that he understands that his offensive performance of late is not acceptable and that he would be willing to accept a smaller contract to help bring in some more, big free agent names next year.
Jeter is a Yankee through and through, and though he may be struggling this year, I say that once the cooler post-season air rolls around, you will see him kick it into an extra gear. Let’s not forget, he is Mr. November, a time-tested baseball warrior, the face of a city, and one of the best to ever play his position.
As any baseball fan, with some knowledge of the game knows, Derek Jeter has been the face of New York Yankees baseball for over the past decade. Jeter is the captain of the best baseball team known to man, with more championships than any other (25% of all world series titles) and more than the next three teams combined (Cardinals -10, A’s -9, Red Sox – 7).
Over the years, NY sports fans have been accustomed to Jeter getting the big hit when it counts, or making the big play (see “the flip”). However, despite starting off the 2010 in is patented Jetarian style, Derek has had an offensive season to forget.
Going into the stretch run of the 2010 playoff push, Jeter is batting an unimpressive .268, with a .328 OBP. These numbers, combined with his proficiency into hitting into double plays, have somewhat softened the Yankees potent offense, while cutting rallies short and limiting scoring opportunities. Combine this low average with the fact that he appears to be well below his career averages in homers (17) and RBIs (80) and it looks like Jeter may soon be facing the end of his playing career.
The end in sight?
Not one time since his rookie year has Jeter ever batted under .290 for a season (career .314), and despite his lackluster performance at the plate this year, at 36, he appears to have hopefully a few more years left in him. The Yankees drafted what they are hoping to be the future of their infield with SS picks in the first and second rounds (see Cito Culver and Angelo Gumbs). These players are still light-years away from seeing any Major League action, and when you combine that with Jeter’s stellar defensive year (6 errors through 137 games), it appears that he may still have some more years to go wearing pin stripes.
The question rattling around in my brain is…Will the Yankees keep paying Jeter the big bucks if he can’t perform. With contract negotiations looming after this season, I cannot imagine how the Yankees would be willing to (A) part with Jeter or (B) Pay him the $22.6mm that he is currently getting. It is obvious that, there will need to be some type of mutual agreement here and my hope is that both the Yankees and Jeter realize that there is still some value in their relationship, just at a lower price.
Make no mistakes about it. Jeter wants his money, but he is a competitor, and I would bet that he understands that his offensive performance of late is not acceptable and that he would be willing to accept a smaller contract to help bring in some more, big free agent names next year.
Jeter is a Yankee through and through, and though he may be struggling this year, I say that once the cooler post-season air rolls around, you will see him kick it into an extra gear. Let’s not forget, he is Mr. November, a time-tested baseball warrior, the face of a city, and one of the best to ever play his position.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
The Best of the West - Western Conference Playoff Projections
In the world of professional sports, there are always clear cut winners, and clear cut losers, but what’s difficult to determine is the final positioning of those middle teams. One injury can destroy a team’s playoff hopes faster than a cherry bomb in a toilet, and the sport of hockey is probably the most affected by this. Certain teams can survive the loss of one player (see Brodeur, Martin in 2008-2009; and Crosby, Sidney in 2008-2009), however most teams will absolutely fall apart at the loss of their highest paid player(s). It’s this unpredictability that makes picking which middle of the pack teams will make it to the summer shindig that much more difficult. With this, I present to you my picks of teams that won’t quite make it to the golf course(yet) come April (Part 2)
Detroit Red Wings- Best, most offensively and defensively deep team in the West. Hard to bet against their top 2 lines, and now with the additions of Jiri Hudler and Mike Modano, it’s also difficult to bet against their third line. If Jimmy Howard plays the way he did last year, this is the best team in the West, possibly the entire league.
Los Angeles Kings- With plenty of cap space, and room for additions to their young and already highly skilled core, the Kings should take the Pacific division with relative ease, and make waves in the playoffs. Without major additions at the deadline, they can’t (and won’t) make it to the Cup finals, but an early to midseason addition of prospect Jonathan Bernier should make it a lot easier.
Vancouver Canucks- With one of the best (regular season) goalies in the league, and a top 3 defensive unit to go along with their forward depth, they will make waves this season in both the regular season and playoffs, but will fail to get the cup due to Roberto Luongo.
San Jose Sharks- The Sharks are no longer “best team in the league” material, but definitely still playoff material. Can’t say how well they will do in the regular season, but with an additional defensive addition at the deadline, they should make it further than they ever have in the playoffs to date.
Chicago Blackhawks- After losing 12 of their players, they aren’t in a position to challenge for the cup again, but they will definitely make the playoffs on the backs of Toews, Kane, Keith, et al.
Phoenix Coyotes- Financial issues will be no big deal for the desert dogs, and they’ll ride the coattails of heart and soul leader Shane Doan, as well as goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov, to make it to the playoffs for a second straight year.
Nashville Predators- With a ridiculous number of NHL forwards, and even more ridiculous number of defensive prospects in the pipeline, the Preds are set to make the playoffs for several more years to come, including this one. They lost the ‘old man’ in Jason Arnott in a trade to the Devils, but that will only create more opportunities for younger, hungrier players.
Minnesota Wild- I’m going against my gut on this one, but looking at the Wild forward corps, they’re much deeper than they were 1 year ago. If Niklas Backstrom can return to form, and he gets offensive help, the Wild can go far. This team, a lot like the Penguins of the East (big surprise since GM Chuck Fletcher was previously the right hand man of Pittsburgh GM Ray Shero), are built to be a team that can make the playoffs, but when it does it will make waves. This is my sleeper pick to go to the finals in the West.
Detroit Red Wings- Best, most offensively and defensively deep team in the West. Hard to bet against their top 2 lines, and now with the additions of Jiri Hudler and Mike Modano, it’s also difficult to bet against their third line. If Jimmy Howard plays the way he did last year, this is the best team in the West, possibly the entire league.
Los Angeles Kings- With plenty of cap space, and room for additions to their young and already highly skilled core, the Kings should take the Pacific division with relative ease, and make waves in the playoffs. Without major additions at the deadline, they can’t (and won’t) make it to the Cup finals, but an early to midseason addition of prospect Jonathan Bernier should make it a lot easier.
Vancouver Canucks- With one of the best (regular season) goalies in the league, and a top 3 defensive unit to go along with their forward depth, they will make waves this season in both the regular season and playoffs, but will fail to get the cup due to Roberto Luongo.
San Jose Sharks- The Sharks are no longer “best team in the league” material, but definitely still playoff material. Can’t say how well they will do in the regular season, but with an additional defensive addition at the deadline, they should make it further than they ever have in the playoffs to date.
Chicago Blackhawks- After losing 12 of their players, they aren’t in a position to challenge for the cup again, but they will definitely make the playoffs on the backs of Toews, Kane, Keith, et al.
Phoenix Coyotes- Financial issues will be no big deal for the desert dogs, and they’ll ride the coattails of heart and soul leader Shane Doan, as well as goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov, to make it to the playoffs for a second straight year.
Nashville Predators- With a ridiculous number of NHL forwards, and even more ridiculous number of defensive prospects in the pipeline, the Preds are set to make the playoffs for several more years to come, including this one. They lost the ‘old man’ in Jason Arnott in a trade to the Devils, but that will only create more opportunities for younger, hungrier players.
Minnesota Wild- I’m going against my gut on this one, but looking at the Wild forward corps, they’re much deeper than they were 1 year ago. If Niklas Backstrom can return to form, and he gets offensive help, the Wild can go far. This team, a lot like the Penguins of the East (big surprise since GM Chuck Fletcher was previously the right hand man of Pittsburgh GM Ray Shero), are built to be a team that can make the playoffs, but when it does it will make waves. This is my sleeper pick to go to the finals in the West.
Beasts of the East - NHL Eastern Conference Playoff Projections
In the world of professional sports, there are always clear cut winners, and clear cut losers, but what’s difficult to determine is the final positioning of those middle teams. One injury can destroy a team’s playoff hopes faster than a cherry bomb in a toilet, and the sport of hockey is probably the most affected by this. Certain teams can survive the loss of one player (see Brodeur, Martin in 2008-2009; and Crosby, Sidney in 2008-2009), however most teams will absolutely fall apart at the loss of their highest paid player(s). It’s this unpredictability that makes picking which middle of the pack teams will make it to the summer shindig that much more difficult. With this, I present to you my picks of teams that won’t quite make it to the golf course(yet) come April.
Boston Bruins- The clear cut best team in the Northeast, with the offensive firepower to be the best team in the East, if not the league. Very solid goaltending, and 3 lines of offense make them the regular season team to beat.
Pittsburgh Penguins- It was a toss up between my favorite flightless birds and the flying nothings (Flyers). The Flyers goaltending situation drops them down a few rungs, while the addition of Mike Comrie to the Penguins puts them over the edge. Very easily can be at the top of the East standings, but has the tendency to go through a midseason slump that will knock them back.
Washington Capitals- You can never count out a team with Alex Ovechkin and Backstrom, but the loss of team depth might not help them win the division, especially with the next team looming.
If you notice, the first 3 teams are in order of placement in the standings. From here on out I will be choosing teams I think will make the playoffs, without much attention to placement in the standings. This is because, as evidenced this past year, an 8 seed can make it pretty far, so it doesn’t matter how high you’re ranked.
Tampa Bay Lightning- 2 Lines deep full of offensive superstars, an upgraded defense and goaltending, and they can easily make the playoffs here; possibly even win the division. However, with a long term injury to Simon Gagne, and Vinny LeCavalier deciding not to show up for a 3rd year in a row, would dismantle this team’s chances of making the playoffs. This is one of my bubble picks.
New Jersey Devils- The Devils will make the playoffs because they’re the Devils, and because of Kovalchuk, Parise, and Brodeur, but don’t expect much after that.
New York Rangers- Added another offensive threat in Alex Frolov to relieve the strain Marian Gaborik’s back has felt from carrying the Rangers offensively. I don’t like this pick because they can easily blow it, but there just isn’t another viable team in the East capable of taking them out of the playoff picture.
Montreal Canadiens- My intense hatred for this franchise and their goaltender Carey Price make me hate this pick even more than the Rangers. However, because of the boring system they play and the lack of other able teams, they make the playoffs in the bottom 2-3 spots. If Carey Price chooses to light up a fag (british term for cigarette, get your heads out of the gutter) instead of playing hockey, the Habs will be out of the playoffs in February.
Philadelphia Flyers- I almost forgot these guys because they’re such a sure bet on making the playoffs. Possibly the deepest team defensively, and 3 lines deep up front, they realistically would probably do better without a goalie (not that they have one you can name). Easily will make the playoffs, and easily will make it to the second round. Could be in the top of the standings in the East, but the Penguins will narrowly beat them to that spot.
So there you have it. Sound off in the comments to tell me you disagree and that I’m a moron…or that I’m a robot sent from the future to accurately describe the NHL playoff picture. Preferably the second one.
J39HBPKXSY2T
Boston Bruins- The clear cut best team in the Northeast, with the offensive firepower to be the best team in the East, if not the league. Very solid goaltending, and 3 lines of offense make them the regular season team to beat.
Pittsburgh Penguins- It was a toss up between my favorite flightless birds and the flying nothings (Flyers). The Flyers goaltending situation drops them down a few rungs, while the addition of Mike Comrie to the Penguins puts them over the edge. Very easily can be at the top of the East standings, but has the tendency to go through a midseason slump that will knock them back.
Washington Capitals- You can never count out a team with Alex Ovechkin and Backstrom, but the loss of team depth might not help them win the division, especially with the next team looming.
If you notice, the first 3 teams are in order of placement in the standings. From here on out I will be choosing teams I think will make the playoffs, without much attention to placement in the standings. This is because, as evidenced this past year, an 8 seed can make it pretty far, so it doesn’t matter how high you’re ranked.
Tampa Bay Lightning- 2 Lines deep full of offensive superstars, an upgraded defense and goaltending, and they can easily make the playoffs here; possibly even win the division. However, with a long term injury to Simon Gagne, and Vinny LeCavalier deciding not to show up for a 3rd year in a row, would dismantle this team’s chances of making the playoffs. This is one of my bubble picks.
New Jersey Devils- The Devils will make the playoffs because they’re the Devils, and because of Kovalchuk, Parise, and Brodeur, but don’t expect much after that.
New York Rangers- Added another offensive threat in Alex Frolov to relieve the strain Marian Gaborik’s back has felt from carrying the Rangers offensively. I don’t like this pick because they can easily blow it, but there just isn’t another viable team in the East capable of taking them out of the playoff picture.
Montreal Canadiens- My intense hatred for this franchise and their goaltender Carey Price make me hate this pick even more than the Rangers. However, because of the boring system they play and the lack of other able teams, they make the playoffs in the bottom 2-3 spots. If Carey Price chooses to light up a fag (british term for cigarette, get your heads out of the gutter) instead of playing hockey, the Habs will be out of the playoffs in February.
Philadelphia Flyers- I almost forgot these guys because they’re such a sure bet on making the playoffs. Possibly the deepest team defensively, and 3 lines deep up front, they realistically would probably do better without a goalie (not that they have one you can name). Easily will make the playoffs, and easily will make it to the second round. Could be in the top of the standings in the East, but the Penguins will narrowly beat them to that spot.
So there you have it. Sound off in the comments to tell me you disagree and that I’m a moron…or that I’m a robot sent from the future to accurately describe the NHL playoff picture. Preferably the second one.
J39HBPKXSY2T
Pick-Em NFL Week #1 Picks
Week 1
Vikings @ Saints -5
I like the Vikings here. Yes the Saints are the defending Super Bowl Champs but I never really believed into their hype with their D especially. Considering the Vikings are getting 5 points here, take them.
Dolphins -3 @ Bills
The Bills are garbage. They have no firepower on offense and they have a Swiss-cheese D. With the Dolphins only giving 3 points, I think this is a steal.
Raiders @ Titans -6.5
The Titans are clearly the better team here, yet the Raiders D is getting stronger. The Titans should win this game with CJ hopefully dominating, but I don’t know if they can cover. Take the Titans cautiously.
Broncos -2.5 @ Jaguars
I don’t like Kyle Orton as a QB and I don’t think that Moreno can carry the whole team. MJD will be running everywhere. I like the Jags, especially getting points.
Panthers @ Giants -7
If Eli doesn’t play as retarded as he looks, the Giants will be a good team. If the D can step up and play better then last year, I don’t see why they can’t win here, especially giving a touchdown. Giants.
Colts -2.5 @ Texans
Can’t see why this spread is so small. The Texans do have a high power offense and play well against the Colts, but I mean who can deny Peyton. The Colts will go as far as he can take them. Take the Colts confidently.
Falcons -2.5 @ Steelers
The Steelers are going to struggle without Big Ben, as I don’t think there good enough without him. I like the Falcons here, but its going to be a close game I think.
Browns @ Bucs -2.5
This game sucks. It’s two bottom barrel teams going at it, when in the end may come down to that respective team’s only win for a while, however if I had to pick, I’d take the new and improved Browns.
Bengals @ Patriots -4.5
T.O and Ocho can’t talk there way to a win here, as the Patriots will be the team in this game. I don’t think the points will be tough to cover here, there two powerful of an offense.
Lions @ Bears -6
This may be a shocker here, but I like the Lions here. It may be the only time I’ll think they can win compete, but the Bears are not the Bears of old and 6 points is a lot to cover.
Packers -3 @ Eagles
Two very good teams here, but Aaron Rodgers is their post-Favre savior. He scores in bunches and is a fantasy god. 3 points should be nothing for the Packers to cover.
49ers -3 @ Seahawks
I want to see what Pete Carol brings to the table before I jump on board. Plus the 49ers D is a force and Frank Gore is going to be a monster for them. 49ers.
Cardinals -3.5 @ Rams
The retirement of Warner will not be good for the Cardinals, as Derek Anderson is not a starting QB in the NFL. I like them here solely because they are playing the lowly Rams.
Cowboys -3.5 @ Redskins
The Redskins will give good competition to the NFC East this year with a coach who can handle the high-money players down there, but the Cowboys are still a better team. Cowboys are good here.
Ravens @ Jets -2.5
It’s going to be a hard-knock first game for the Jets in Week 1. The Ravens are going to be a force in the AFC this year. The Jets have a great D, especially with Revis signed, but the Ravens match-em in that department, but have the better QB of the teams. Ravens win here with the points.
Chargers -4.5 @ Chiefs
Ahhh the San Diego Chargers. The Chargers are going to score at will in this game, as Rivers is going to come out looking strong. The question will be if their D can stop them and look like a great D should look like. Chargers win the game and cover the spread here.
Lock of the Week- Dolphins
Vikings @ Saints -5
I like the Vikings here. Yes the Saints are the defending Super Bowl Champs but I never really believed into their hype with their D especially. Considering the Vikings are getting 5 points here, take them.
Dolphins -3 @ Bills
The Bills are garbage. They have no firepower on offense and they have a Swiss-cheese D. With the Dolphins only giving 3 points, I think this is a steal.
Raiders @ Titans -6.5
The Titans are clearly the better team here, yet the Raiders D is getting stronger. The Titans should win this game with CJ hopefully dominating, but I don’t know if they can cover. Take the Titans cautiously.
Broncos -2.5 @ Jaguars
I don’t like Kyle Orton as a QB and I don’t think that Moreno can carry the whole team. MJD will be running everywhere. I like the Jags, especially getting points.
Panthers @ Giants -7
If Eli doesn’t play as retarded as he looks, the Giants will be a good team. If the D can step up and play better then last year, I don’t see why they can’t win here, especially giving a touchdown. Giants.
Colts -2.5 @ Texans
Can’t see why this spread is so small. The Texans do have a high power offense and play well against the Colts, but I mean who can deny Peyton. The Colts will go as far as he can take them. Take the Colts confidently.
Falcons -2.5 @ Steelers
The Steelers are going to struggle without Big Ben, as I don’t think there good enough without him. I like the Falcons here, but its going to be a close game I think.
Browns @ Bucs -2.5
This game sucks. It’s two bottom barrel teams going at it, when in the end may come down to that respective team’s only win for a while, however if I had to pick, I’d take the new and improved Browns.
Bengals @ Patriots -4.5
T.O and Ocho can’t talk there way to a win here, as the Patriots will be the team in this game. I don’t think the points will be tough to cover here, there two powerful of an offense.
Lions @ Bears -6
This may be a shocker here, but I like the Lions here. It may be the only time I’ll think they can win compete, but the Bears are not the Bears of old and 6 points is a lot to cover.
Packers -3 @ Eagles
Two very good teams here, but Aaron Rodgers is their post-Favre savior. He scores in bunches and is a fantasy god. 3 points should be nothing for the Packers to cover.
49ers -3 @ Seahawks
I want to see what Pete Carol brings to the table before I jump on board. Plus the 49ers D is a force and Frank Gore is going to be a monster for them. 49ers.
Cardinals -3.5 @ Rams
The retirement of Warner will not be good for the Cardinals, as Derek Anderson is not a starting QB in the NFL. I like them here solely because they are playing the lowly Rams.
Cowboys -3.5 @ Redskins
The Redskins will give good competition to the NFC East this year with a coach who can handle the high-money players down there, but the Cowboys are still a better team. Cowboys are good here.
Ravens @ Jets -2.5
It’s going to be a hard-knock first game for the Jets in Week 1. The Ravens are going to be a force in the AFC this year. The Jets have a great D, especially with Revis signed, but the Ravens match-em in that department, but have the better QB of the teams. Ravens win here with the points.
Chargers -4.5 @ Chiefs
Ahhh the San Diego Chargers. The Chargers are going to score at will in this game, as Rivers is going to come out looking strong. The question will be if their D can stop them and look like a great D should look like. Chargers win the game and cover the spread here.
Lock of the Week- Dolphins
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