The BCS has decided.
Despite losing to Texas, the Oklahoma Sooners are playing in the Big 12 Championship against Missouri this weekend instead of the Texas Longhorns. The Sooners have played a better non-conference schedule beating Cincinnati, and TCU but the Sooners still lost to Texas. Via Brad Edwards of ESPN.com, "The Human Element of the BCS had Texas over Oklahoma." So once again, its the computers that has put us in this position.
Now you could say well the team Texas lost to, the Sooners smoked by 44. Lets remember that when the Longhorns were on the road and the last game out of four which were all against top 15 teams. Oklahoma was at home and had this game circled after losing to Texas.
There is still some optimism for the Longhorns as they could still see themselves in the BCS Championship game because if the Sooners were to lose to the Tigers, it would be assumed that Texas would slide in. There even might be a chance to see Texas in there if Oklahoma wins and Florida beats Alabama (I highly doubt that situation). At this point, since Texas didnt win the Big 12, they have no reason to play for the National Championship.
-Charlie.
The New Logo
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Saturday, November 29, 2008
"Hey Coach, It's Plax... Yeah, I Shot Myself."
Plaxico Burress was already out this week against the Redskins because he was nursing a hamstring injury but now he has more to worry about as he shot himself in the leg?!
I mean I understand there are accident with guns but you would think that most people would know if the gun was loaded plus how to hold a gun. The good news is it isnt life threatening as it went through the muscle not hitting any arteries or bones. Once again, Burress continues to create distractions which is something that has been a theme this year. I wonder if the Giants get a good trade offer for Burress, they would consider doing it. I think Burress is an absolute threat as a player but isnt a guy I would want to have in my locker room.
I am disappointed in Burress though as Thursday was the one year death anniversary of Sean Taylor. To lose another superstar like Burress would be detrimental especially if it was on complete accident. Now ESPN has written articles on how players are protecting themselves more so these days after Taylor's death. That's something I can understand but if they have guns, they better make sure they know how to use them.
I hope Plax recovers quickly.
-Charlie.
I mean I understand there are accident with guns but you would think that most people would know if the gun was loaded plus how to hold a gun. The good news is it isnt life threatening as it went through the muscle not hitting any arteries or bones. Once again, Burress continues to create distractions which is something that has been a theme this year. I wonder if the Giants get a good trade offer for Burress, they would consider doing it. I think Burress is an absolute threat as a player but isnt a guy I would want to have in my locker room.
I am disappointed in Burress though as Thursday was the one year death anniversary of Sean Taylor. To lose another superstar like Burress would be detrimental especially if it was on complete accident. Now ESPN has written articles on how players are protecting themselves more so these days after Taylor's death. That's something I can understand but if they have guns, they better make sure they know how to use them.
I hope Plax recovers quickly.
-Charlie.
Lebron PR Disaster
Lebron doesnt screw up much but he did yesterday as he called Charles Barkley, "Stupid."
This stems from Barkley saying that Lebron was "disrespectful" for talking about all of the free agency issues when he was in New York at Tuesday. I thought it was insane that the media jumped all over the simple fact that Lebron's Cavalier team was playing in New York for a game. It wasnt a playoff game or a critical game, just one out of the 82 NBA games played in the season. Therefore it was James' fault for addressing the issue more so the media fault for bringing it up. I felt bad for James because its not like this summer he is a free agent, no its two years away from him being a free agent. Granted, I believe he is destined for New York, it shouldnt be discussed in the 2008-2009 season.
Now whether it was in the heat of the moment or just LBJ being pissed off about the whole situation, he shouldnt have called one of the most beloved NBA analyst stupid. LBJ should have just phrased it as, "Barkley needs to worry about his issues then mine" or "I am good friends with Sir Charles, and he should know I am not doing anything to disrespect the Cavs." Either a cold answer or a politically correct answer would have been perfect. Now any Inside the NBA interview becomes ten times more awkard.
-Charlie.
This stems from Barkley saying that Lebron was "disrespectful" for talking about all of the free agency issues when he was in New York at Tuesday. I thought it was insane that the media jumped all over the simple fact that Lebron's Cavalier team was playing in New York for a game. It wasnt a playoff game or a critical game, just one out of the 82 NBA games played in the season. Therefore it was James' fault for addressing the issue more so the media fault for bringing it up. I felt bad for James because its not like this summer he is a free agent, no its two years away from him being a free agent. Granted, I believe he is destined for New York, it shouldnt be discussed in the 2008-2009 season.
Now whether it was in the heat of the moment or just LBJ being pissed off about the whole situation, he shouldnt have called one of the most beloved NBA analyst stupid. LBJ should have just phrased it as, "Barkley needs to worry about his issues then mine" or "I am good friends with Sir Charles, and he should know I am not doing anything to disrespect the Cavs." Either a cold answer or a politically correct answer would have been perfect. Now any Inside the NBA interview becomes ten times more awkard.
-Charlie.
Lane Kiffin Headed South
If some of you didnt hear, Lane Kiffin is the new head coach at the University of Tennessee and the reviews have been completely mixed. First off, I am glad that Kiffin got a job after getting royally screwed in Oakland but I do not think this is the right job for him.
Many have said that Kiffin is a dynamic personally and did a great job recruiting during his time at USC and have a good pedigree with his dad, Monty being one of the best defensive coaches in the NFL. Lets remember that he got a job with Al Davis as a USC co-offensive coordinator. Thats practically unheard of and for what its worth, he probably would of good a pretty solid NCAA head coaching job by now. Although I dont think its anywhere near the quality of job he has right now.
He goes into the SEC with four coaches who have won national championships in Urban Meyer, Nick Saban, Les Miles, and Steve Spurrier who all know how to recruit the SEC area, something I am assuming Kiffin is not familiar with. Dont forget, Mark Richt as well whose done a hell of a job at Georgia. As Lee Corso said on ESPN this morning, "Kiffin is going to need coordinators who know the SEC, inside and out." Couldnt agree more, he needs a great coaching staff around him if he expects results at Tennessee.
Kiffin in my opinion seemed like the easy choice as many thought he would get either the Syracuse or Washington job which would both be a great fit for him. So instead of going after Brian Kelly- Head Coach of Cincinnati whose done a magnificent job with the Bearcats this season and in my opinion, is ready to be a premier coach in the NCAA. The Vols were scared of rejection and wanted to make sure they had a head coach before the season was over so going after Kiffin was the logical thing to do.
Welcome to the unforgiving SEC, Lane.
-Charlie.
Many have said that Kiffin is a dynamic personally and did a great job recruiting during his time at USC and have a good pedigree with his dad, Monty being one of the best defensive coaches in the NFL. Lets remember that he got a job with Al Davis as a USC co-offensive coordinator. Thats practically unheard of and for what its worth, he probably would of good a pretty solid NCAA head coaching job by now. Although I dont think its anywhere near the quality of job he has right now.
He goes into the SEC with four coaches who have won national championships in Urban Meyer, Nick Saban, Les Miles, and Steve Spurrier who all know how to recruit the SEC area, something I am assuming Kiffin is not familiar with. Dont forget, Mark Richt as well whose done a hell of a job at Georgia. As Lee Corso said on ESPN this morning, "Kiffin is going to need coordinators who know the SEC, inside and out." Couldnt agree more, he needs a great coaching staff around him if he expects results at Tennessee.
Kiffin in my opinion seemed like the easy choice as many thought he would get either the Syracuse or Washington job which would both be a great fit for him. So instead of going after Brian Kelly- Head Coach of Cincinnati whose done a magnificent job with the Bearcats this season and in my opinion, is ready to be a premier coach in the NCAA. The Vols were scared of rejection and wanted to make sure they had a head coach before the season was over so going after Kiffin was the logical thing to do.
Welcome to the unforgiving SEC, Lane.
-Charlie.
AI Needs his Turkey and Marbury's Cool Suits.
I would just like to thank Allen Iverson to give me a perfect excuse to play his sound clip, "We are talking bout practice man!" Haha, he gave me this opportunity as he missed Thanksgiving morning practice which led to him being benched. Now I think this can just prove the point that AI does not think of anyone else but himself. Granted, it sucks to practice on Thanksgiving (I've been there) but it's necessary. Iverson likely wont have any more incidents all year.
Now to a guy who has more problems than most math textbooks: Stephon Marbury. He has not played a game all year and we have seen him show off all sorts of suits enjoying Madison Square Garden from the sidelines. Basically, its a cat fight between Mike D'Antoni and Marbury as they already hated each other from Phoenix and Marbury isnt the type of person to bury hatchet. In addition, he has no teammates behind him as Quinton Richardson has called him out in the past week and no one has came out to his defense.
Now he is officially suspended by the New York Knicks, and my dad mentioned it to me which led me to say, "Stephon's a punk, no question about it." He is the closet thing to a plague in the NBA. He was alright in his first years at Minnesota but as things started to improve for KG, Marbury wanted more. Then Steph diseased New Jersey and Phoenix. Now, he went to New York, a true hell hole in the NBA until D'Antoni got there.
I hope Marbury keeps picking splinters out of his ass.
-Charlie.
Now to a guy who has more problems than most math textbooks: Stephon Marbury. He has not played a game all year and we have seen him show off all sorts of suits enjoying Madison Square Garden from the sidelines. Basically, its a cat fight between Mike D'Antoni and Marbury as they already hated each other from Phoenix and Marbury isnt the type of person to bury hatchet. In addition, he has no teammates behind him as Quinton Richardson has called him out in the past week and no one has came out to his defense.
Now he is officially suspended by the New York Knicks, and my dad mentioned it to me which led me to say, "Stephon's a punk, no question about it." He is the closet thing to a plague in the NBA. He was alright in his first years at Minnesota but as things started to improve for KG, Marbury wanted more. Then Steph diseased New Jersey and Phoenix. Now, he went to New York, a true hell hole in the NBA until D'Antoni got there.
I hope Marbury keeps picking splinters out of his ass.
-Charlie.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
NFl Picks Week 13: Where I Wont Miss One...
Tennessee (10-1) at Detroit (0-10)- What a snoozefest this one could be but dont ever doubt the Lions on Thanksgiving Day as I have seen the Packers pushed to the edge on Turkey day when the Lions hadnt won a game but I think the Titans have enough tools to pull away in the fourth quarter. TEN 28-17
Seattle (2-9) at Dallas (7-4)- The Cowboys hype train will start again as they will win three straight with beating two sisters of the poor also known as the NFC West. I guess the only thing I can look forward to in this one is maybe see T.O pull some crazy shit. DAL 34-14
Arizona (7-4) at Philadelphia (5-5-1)- The Eagles are full of turmoil and the Cardinals are trying to rebound in cold Philadelphia. Despite everything going on with Phillie, they have an advantage in this game and I think you will see it by the end of the game. Could go both ways though. PHI 27-23
San Francisco (3-7) at Buffalo (6-5)- The Niners once again have to travel and this time way past the Mississippi as they face the Bills. Trent Edwards and others went off last weekend in KC which should carry over this week against the Niners.
Baltimore (7-4) at Cincinnati (1-9-1)- The Ravens defense looks like the real deal as they have only had one slip up all year (Indy) and granted their schedule is weak, they look like a team who could have an impact come playoff time. BALT 28-3
Indianapolis (7-4) at Cleveland (4-7)- Cleveland said Romeo Crennel and Phil Savage are on the hot seat and now Brady Quinn is out for the season. Rut roh. Oh also Indy comes into town. IND 38-10
Carolina (8-3) at Green Bay (5-6)- Just like after the Vikings loss, I was going to write a big article but I decided it worked last time to not say anything. I am sure the Panthers will not the weather on Sunday and I think the Packers have enough inspiration to win this one. GB 28-24
Miami (6-5) at St. Louis (2-9)- The Phins get lucky as they need a win to keep pace in the playoff race. They should be able to handle the Rams who seem hapless on stopping the run. MIA 31-9
New Orleans (6-5) at Tampa Bay (8-3)- I will bet that alot of those big plays wont be there for Brees this week as he faces a very good defensive team and they will need to establish the run to win this game. Dont see it happening. TB 31-24
New York Giants (10-1) at Washington (7-4)- Good matchup in the NFC East where the Skins need a healthy Clinton Portis to try to carry this team to victory. I think the Giants are the best team in football and they are doing it on both sides of the ball, dont see why it cant continue. NYG 24-13
Atlanta (7-4) at San Diego (4-7)- I doubt the Falcons and Michael Turner for one week which bit me in the ass in the fantasy aspect, granted no matter what the owner said, the Chargers need this win to save Norv's job. Not happening. ATL 38-31
Pittsburgh (8-3) at New England (7-4)- What a surprise! The Steelers are the prime time game again, seriously NFL do something about this. This isnt a bad game to watch but still, the Steelers on every week is awful. Taking the Pats because Matt Cassel is on fire and the Steelers cant figure out the Pats lately. NE 20-10
Denver (6-5) at New York Jets (8-3)- Ah yes the Brett Favre hype train. Granted, I said I missed him a couple weeks ago but lets remember there are alot of parts helping him out. They should win as the Broncos prove to be the most inconsistent team in football. NYJ 34-20
Kansas City (1-10) at Oakland (3-8)- Last time the Chiefs got ran all over in the snorefest but I have a feeling the Raiders will just lay a complete egg. KC 9-3- not a misprint, I think it will be that ugly haha.
Chicago (6-5) at Minnesota (6-5)- Finally! Some teams not from the NFC East or the Steelers, very nice. I think this game will be a battle with the Dome rocking, I will take the Bears for the sole reason of the possibility of not having the Williams Bros. in the middle but if they are playing, the Vikes can win this game. This one will be real close. CHI 20-17
Jacksonville (4-7) at Houston (4-7)- Wow I am sure ESPN is pumped to have this one for MNF, but I think you can expect a close game. I realized that the Jags really do suck and I think the Texans D is slowly improving. HOU 20-14
Enjoy Thanksgiving. I probably wont have any stories until Friday but dont be surprised if I take off til Sunday.
Top 25 Picks
As I said before I know these are early but they need to be do to me traveling tomorrow and well Thursday is Turkey Day.
1. Alabama-vs. Auburn- The Iron Bowl could make the season of Tommy Tuberville and could arguably save his job at Auburn as in my opinion, he is on his way out. I have a tough time seeing the Tide looking past their hated rivals so I got Bama but expect it to be close. BAMA 24-21
2. Texas-vs. Texas A&M- Normally this game is being played on Friday but they move it to Thanksgiving night which is probably the best game of the whole day. Beware of the Thursday Night Curse, it seems like whenever a top team plays on Thursday, it is never goes as it should. TEXAS 31-24
3. Oklahoma-at 12. Oklahoma State- I thought no one in the nation had played better than the Sooners did last week against Texas Tech but something telling me that the Cowboys are going to win this one as they know they cant take the Big 12 South bu they sure as hell can be spoilers. OK STATE 38-35
4. Florida- at 20. Florida State- Mark Schlabach of ESPN.com provided a key stat... Florida is 1-3-1 when playing the Noles before the SEC championship and I have said that I think Florida will be playing for the National Championship. This one is going to be a tough defense battle and if Tebow takes apart the Noles D, he will make a strong push for the Heisman, I will take the Gators but reeeeal close. UF 16-13
5. USC-vs. Notre Dame- The Golden Domers are reeling after losing to the Orange and Charlie's seat getting warmer granted it could all be relieved if they can beat USC. False. USC will pick apart Jimmy Clausen's inaccuracy. USC 38-14
6. Utah-BYE (Really this high?)
7. Texas Tech-vs. Baylor- Well this is a great opponent for Mike Leach's bunch after their embarrassment in Norman last weekend. The Red Raiders should have no problems whatsoever with the Bears. TTECH 52-17
8. Penn State-BYE (Clinched BCS Berth)
9. Boise State-vs. Fresno State- The Broncos really get screwed by Utah season because they will have the BCS berth, not the Broncos. A big WAC rivalry between the two best teams in the conference and I think this one wont be close. Kellen Moore and Ian Johnson have proved head/shoulders above the WAC. BOISE 31-3
10. Ohio State-BYE
11. Georgia-vs. 22. Georgia Tech- I dont know if you guys are like me, but I love the fact that most of these rivalries games this weekend mean something which hasnt happened in a couple years. The Dawgs defense has been shotty at best all year and I think Paul Johnson's advanced wishbone will screw things up for them in a tight battle. GT 27-17
12. Oklahoma State-see 3. Oklahoma
13. Missouri-vs. Kansas- This was the big battle last year and still a big rivalry although the Tigers should be able to pick apart the weak defense of the Jayhawks apart. MIZZOU 45-21
14. TCU-Bye
15. Ball State-vs. Western Michigan- The Cardinals can finish their undefeated season if they can win today against the Broncos who arent a easy team. I think Nate Davis and company should be able to take care of them but dont expect a blowout. BALL 31-28
16. Cincinnati-vs. Syracuse- The Bearcats are going to BCS dancing this year and Brian Kelly will probably upgrade to a big contract somewhere else but the Orange show they have some fight left although the Bearcats should be able to handle them. CINCY 42-28
17. Oregon State-vs. 23. Oregon- The Civil War which will probably be one of the most intense in recent years as the Beavers need a win to go to the Rose Bowl for the first time since 1965 and it appears that Jacquizz Rodgers will not play for the Beavers. I got the fighting Mitch Pratts in this one as they have been playing very strong of late and no Rodgers equals big problems for the Beavs. OREGON 35-31
18. BYU-BYE
19. Michigan State-BYE
20. Florida State-see 4. Florida
21. Boston College-vs. Maryland- I think Jeff Jagodzinksi (West Allis native) deserves to be in the Coach of Year discussing if they win this game and clinch ACC Atlantic title because he loses Matt Ryan and others from last year and they are right back in the mix. They will get it done again tonight, their defense is one of the best in the nation. BC 17-10
22. Georiga Tech-See 11. Georgia
23. Oregon-see 17. Oregon State
24. Northwestern-BYE
25. Pittsburgh-vs. West Virgina- The Backyard Brawl will be another good one as both teams are in the top tier of the Big East and I think the Mountaineers will be victorious in this one due to a finally healthy Pat White. WV 34-27
Others to Watch
Colorado at Nebraska
Mississippi at Mississippi State
South Carolina at Clemson
1. Alabama-vs. Auburn- The Iron Bowl could make the season of Tommy Tuberville and could arguably save his job at Auburn as in my opinion, he is on his way out. I have a tough time seeing the Tide looking past their hated rivals so I got Bama but expect it to be close. BAMA 24-21
2. Texas-vs. Texas A&M- Normally this game is being played on Friday but they move it to Thanksgiving night which is probably the best game of the whole day. Beware of the Thursday Night Curse, it seems like whenever a top team plays on Thursday, it is never goes as it should. TEXAS 31-24
3. Oklahoma-at 12. Oklahoma State- I thought no one in the nation had played better than the Sooners did last week against Texas Tech but something telling me that the Cowboys are going to win this one as they know they cant take the Big 12 South bu they sure as hell can be spoilers. OK STATE 38-35
4. Florida- at 20. Florida State- Mark Schlabach of ESPN.com provided a key stat... Florida is 1-3-1 when playing the Noles before the SEC championship and I have said that I think Florida will be playing for the National Championship. This one is going to be a tough defense battle and if Tebow takes apart the Noles D, he will make a strong push for the Heisman, I will take the Gators but reeeeal close. UF 16-13
5. USC-vs. Notre Dame- The Golden Domers are reeling after losing to the Orange and Charlie's seat getting warmer granted it could all be relieved if they can beat USC. False. USC will pick apart Jimmy Clausen's inaccuracy. USC 38-14
6. Utah-BYE (Really this high?)
7. Texas Tech-vs. Baylor- Well this is a great opponent for Mike Leach's bunch after their embarrassment in Norman last weekend. The Red Raiders should have no problems whatsoever with the Bears. TTECH 52-17
8. Penn State-BYE (Clinched BCS Berth)
9. Boise State-vs. Fresno State- The Broncos really get screwed by Utah season because they will have the BCS berth, not the Broncos. A big WAC rivalry between the two best teams in the conference and I think this one wont be close. Kellen Moore and Ian Johnson have proved head/shoulders above the WAC. BOISE 31-3
10. Ohio State-BYE
11. Georgia-vs. 22. Georgia Tech- I dont know if you guys are like me, but I love the fact that most of these rivalries games this weekend mean something which hasnt happened in a couple years. The Dawgs defense has been shotty at best all year and I think Paul Johnson's advanced wishbone will screw things up for them in a tight battle. GT 27-17
12. Oklahoma State-see 3. Oklahoma
13. Missouri-vs. Kansas- This was the big battle last year and still a big rivalry although the Tigers should be able to pick apart the weak defense of the Jayhawks apart. MIZZOU 45-21
14. TCU-Bye
15. Ball State-vs. Western Michigan- The Cardinals can finish their undefeated season if they can win today against the Broncos who arent a easy team. I think Nate Davis and company should be able to take care of them but dont expect a blowout. BALL 31-28
16. Cincinnati-vs. Syracuse- The Bearcats are going to BCS dancing this year and Brian Kelly will probably upgrade to a big contract somewhere else but the Orange show they have some fight left although the Bearcats should be able to handle them. CINCY 42-28
17. Oregon State-vs. 23. Oregon- The Civil War which will probably be one of the most intense in recent years as the Beavers need a win to go to the Rose Bowl for the first time since 1965 and it appears that Jacquizz Rodgers will not play for the Beavers. I got the fighting Mitch Pratts in this one as they have been playing very strong of late and no Rodgers equals big problems for the Beavs. OREGON 35-31
18. BYU-BYE
19. Michigan State-BYE
20. Florida State-see 4. Florida
21. Boston College-vs. Maryland- I think Jeff Jagodzinksi (West Allis native) deserves to be in the Coach of Year discussing if they win this game and clinch ACC Atlantic title because he loses Matt Ryan and others from last year and they are right back in the mix. They will get it done again tonight, their defense is one of the best in the nation. BC 17-10
22. Georiga Tech-See 11. Georgia
23. Oregon-see 17. Oregon State
24. Northwestern-BYE
25. Pittsburgh-vs. West Virgina- The Backyard Brawl will be another good one as both teams are in the top tier of the Big East and I think the Mountaineers will be victorious in this one due to a finally healthy Pat White. WV 34-27
Others to Watch
Colorado at Nebraska
Mississippi at Mississippi State
South Carolina at Clemson
Monday, November 24, 2008
P.J. Carlesimo and Eddie Jordan: Apart of the NBA Unemployment Line
The Thunder and the Wizards decided to go different ways after horrible starts by firing P.J. Carlesimo and Eddie Jordan. While one I think was a good move the other I am not so sure about at the moment.
The Thunder are a couple years away but they should be at least staying competitive in games which they are not. They are the doormat of the NBA right now and they will be lucky to win 20 games all year. Also Carlesimo is a coach I have never been a fan, he is like a lot others- Much better as an assistant coach then head coach. If I was Oklahoma City, I would look into a youth movement in coaches, possibly a college coach or look for an up and coming assistant. I would not go the route of the Bobcats (Larry Brown) because in my opinion, for a young team its not the answer.
The Wizards granted are off to a horrible start as well and shouldnt be with the talent they have even without Agent Zero but they could still comeback to have a good year because the NBA is a long season and the Wizards have the talent. Also did Lebron James get Jordan fired? He couldnt figure out how to beat them not once, not twice, but three times. You could say "Well you cannot help that." But sometimes that how sports go if you cant figure a player or team out, your club moves on to someone that can.
-Charlie.
The Thunder are a couple years away but they should be at least staying competitive in games which they are not. They are the doormat of the NBA right now and they will be lucky to win 20 games all year. Also Carlesimo is a coach I have never been a fan, he is like a lot others- Much better as an assistant coach then head coach. If I was Oklahoma City, I would look into a youth movement in coaches, possibly a college coach or look for an up and coming assistant. I would not go the route of the Bobcats (Larry Brown) because in my opinion, for a young team its not the answer.
The Wizards granted are off to a horrible start as well and shouldnt be with the talent they have even without Agent Zero but they could still comeback to have a good year because the NBA is a long season and the Wizards have the talent. Also did Lebron James get Jordan fired? He couldnt figure out how to beat them not once, not twice, but three times. You could say "Well you cannot help that." But sometimes that how sports go if you cant figure a player or team out, your club moves on to someone that can.
-Charlie.
Benching McNabb Isnt the Answer
First off let me say the picks for NCAA/NFL will be up tomorrow some time during the day/night because I am traveling on Wednesday and well eating all the turkey I can on Thursday. Second off, this is one of the best "entertainment" days ever for me as watched the Entourage finale (fantastic.) and Kanye West's new CD came out (genius.)
Lets get on with the article, if you didnt catch it the Eagles decided yesterday to bench Donovan McNabb at halftime and now is back as a starter for Thursday night battle with the Arizona Cardinals. Andy Reid said today "Sometimes you need to take a step back, to take a step forward." But see what Reid doesnt realize is its his play calling that is costing his team victories in the past couple weeks. I am not saying that Reid deserves to get fired but his seat should definitely be getting warm as five times in the last couple games he has passed on 3rd and 1! You have Brian Westbrook whose arguably one of the best backs in the league and you pass on short yardage?! I just dont get it.
Also I have never been a fan of McNabb but I think when he was at his premier best was when he had a good receiving core which was only for a mere three years then when Terell Owens left so did McNabb's career. I know thats a hard pill to swallow for some of you who might hate T.O. but its the absolute truth. He never has a top-flight reciever to throw the ball and in my opinion thats what he needs to be ultimately successful. He isnt up there with the Mannings, Favres, and Bradys of the world for that exact reason.
Now the best question is will Donovon McNabb show up on Thursday?
-Charlie.
Lets get on with the article, if you didnt catch it the Eagles decided yesterday to bench Donovan McNabb at halftime and now is back as a starter for Thursday night battle with the Arizona Cardinals. Andy Reid said today "Sometimes you need to take a step back, to take a step forward." But see what Reid doesnt realize is its his play calling that is costing his team victories in the past couple weeks. I am not saying that Reid deserves to get fired but his seat should definitely be getting warm as five times in the last couple games he has passed on 3rd and 1! You have Brian Westbrook whose arguably one of the best backs in the league and you pass on short yardage?! I just dont get it.
Also I have never been a fan of McNabb but I think when he was at his premier best was when he had a good receiving core which was only for a mere three years then when Terell Owens left so did McNabb's career. I know thats a hard pill to swallow for some of you who might hate T.O. but its the absolute truth. He never has a top-flight reciever to throw the ball and in my opinion thats what he needs to be ultimately successful. He isnt up there with the Mannings, Favres, and Bradys of the world for that exact reason.
Now the best question is will Donovon McNabb show up on Thursday?
-Charlie.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
College Basketball Games of the Week
Oh yeah by the way I missed the Phille-Baltimore game, looks thats becoming a regular thing in the NFL picks. I would of picked Baltimore but I wouldnt of predicted Donovan McNabb getting benched. Now this will be a regular thing, picking games for the week and starting next week, I will have picks of the weekend (Saturday-Sunday) for the Top 25.
Monday-Wednesday: The Maui Invitnational: Teams involved- 1. North Carolina, 8. Notre Dame 9. Texas as well as others. I think you see Carolina playing Texas in the finals although Haragoody versus Hansbrough would be as physical as most football games. The Tar Heels will win it though.
CBE Classic: Syracuse vs. 19. Florida, Washington vs. 24. Kansas- (Winners advance)- I think the Orange-Gator game will be intense and down to the wire. Calthes vs. Devendorf should be a good matchup. And the Huskies still have Jon Brockman but the Jayhawks are basically at home in Kansas City look for the Jayhawks to win it playing Cuse in the Finals.
Paradise Jam final between 2. Connecticut vs. 23. Wisconsin- This one all matters on once again if the Badgers can control the pace of the game, they can keep it close with the Huskies. I dont know though if the young big men of UW can keep up with Jeff Adrian and Haseem Thabeet all game but it should definitely test them for the games down the road.
Preseason NIT: Boston College vs. 10. Purdue, UAB vs. 14. Oklahoma- Both games are pretty good as the Eagles suffered a tough lost to St. Louis in the past couple of days but shouldnt be overlooked with Tyreese Rice and Rakim Sanders. UAB is always a pesky team but I dont think anyone in this tournament will be able to hold Blake Griffin and he will lead the Sooners to the title.
Old Spice Classic featuring 7. Michigan State 11. Gonzaga 13. Tennessee, 18. Georgetown- Talk about a great tournament, this is right up there with the Maui and could be better this year. I think all four could win it but I think Gonzaga is the team that will come out victorious, I like what they have inside/out. We can only hope for a repeat of 05 Michigan State vs. Gonzaga.
76 Classic featuring 15. Arizona State 25. Wake Forest- My buddy Danny thinks the Demon Deacons are going to win the ACC and granted I dont agree, they could really show something if they win this tournament which I think they will do. But beware of St. Mary's whose also in the tournament.
6. Pittsburgh vs. Texas Tech- That should be a good game with the Red Raiders playing as much defense as their football team allowing 114 to a DII team. But I think it will be a good test for Pat Knight although look for Pitt to pull away late.
Monday-Wednesday: The Maui Invitnational: Teams involved- 1. North Carolina, 8. Notre Dame 9. Texas as well as others. I think you see Carolina playing Texas in the finals although Haragoody versus Hansbrough would be as physical as most football games. The Tar Heels will win it though.
CBE Classic: Syracuse vs. 19. Florida, Washington vs. 24. Kansas- (Winners advance)- I think the Orange-Gator game will be intense and down to the wire. Calthes vs. Devendorf should be a good matchup. And the Huskies still have Jon Brockman but the Jayhawks are basically at home in Kansas City look for the Jayhawks to win it playing Cuse in the Finals.
Paradise Jam final between 2. Connecticut vs. 23. Wisconsin- This one all matters on once again if the Badgers can control the pace of the game, they can keep it close with the Huskies. I dont know though if the young big men of UW can keep up with Jeff Adrian and Haseem Thabeet all game but it should definitely test them for the games down the road.
Preseason NIT: Boston College vs. 10. Purdue, UAB vs. 14. Oklahoma- Both games are pretty good as the Eagles suffered a tough lost to St. Louis in the past couple of days but shouldnt be overlooked with Tyreese Rice and Rakim Sanders. UAB is always a pesky team but I dont think anyone in this tournament will be able to hold Blake Griffin and he will lead the Sooners to the title.
Old Spice Classic featuring 7. Michigan State 11. Gonzaga 13. Tennessee, 18. Georgetown- Talk about a great tournament, this is right up there with the Maui and could be better this year. I think all four could win it but I think Gonzaga is the team that will come out victorious, I like what they have inside/out. We can only hope for a repeat of 05 Michigan State vs. Gonzaga.
76 Classic featuring 15. Arizona State 25. Wake Forest- My buddy Danny thinks the Demon Deacons are going to win the ACC and granted I dont agree, they could really show something if they win this tournament which I think they will do. But beware of St. Mary's whose also in the tournament.
6. Pittsburgh vs. Texas Tech- That should be a good game with the Red Raiders playing as much defense as their football team allowing 114 to a DII team. But I think it will be a good test for Pat Knight although look for Pitt to pull away late.
BCS Gettin' Messy
The new BCS standings have came out today around seven and once again we have some controversy as they rank 1. Alabama, 2. Texas, 3. Oklahoma, 4. Florida, 5. USC.
Now there is a three-way tie for the Big 12 South title and if no one loses their last game then it will be based on the BCS Standings whoever is the highest. As you can see now, its Texas who beat the Sooners by 10 but lost to the Red Raiders. In my opinion, if one team (Oklahoma or Texas) wins by a big amount and the other struggles to win, then its obvious that the team who dominates deserves to play in the Big 12 Championship. Now if both teams win by 10+, I think the team that deserves to play in the Big 12 championship is Texas for the reason I stated above.
Brad Edwards of ESPN.com wrote a great article breaking down the possibilities of still seeing America's favorite Texas Tech Red Raiders in the championship which I had no idea was possible. All that really needs to happen is of course, the Red Raiders beat Baylor, then Oklahoma State beats Oklahoma in Stillwater which is completely possible after the beatdown the Sooners laid on the Red Raiders, a letdown is completely pausable. Also Texas Tech has to get by Missouri in the Big 12 championship game as well.
If this situation happens, I would lose complete hope in the BCS and maybe the United States if USC or Penn State make into the BCS Championship. Granted I like both of those teams but they dont deserve it as much as Texas Tech. I dont care if they got their asses kicked by a whopping forty-four points, they deserve to play if the aforementioned situation occurs.
Another scary situation: What if one of these three loses to Mizzou in the Big 12 Title game? Then does USC (lets remember if the Oregon State Beavers win on Saturday, they are the Pac-10 Champions) or Penn State get in? Or do you allowed the team that didnt play for the Big 12 championship into the mix?
The BCS back again.
-Charlie.
Now there is a three-way tie for the Big 12 South title and if no one loses their last game then it will be based on the BCS Standings whoever is the highest. As you can see now, its Texas who beat the Sooners by 10 but lost to the Red Raiders. In my opinion, if one team (Oklahoma or Texas) wins by a big amount and the other struggles to win, then its obvious that the team who dominates deserves to play in the Big 12 Championship. Now if both teams win by 10+, I think the team that deserves to play in the Big 12 championship is Texas for the reason I stated above.
Brad Edwards of ESPN.com wrote a great article breaking down the possibilities of still seeing America's favorite Texas Tech Red Raiders in the championship which I had no idea was possible. All that really needs to happen is of course, the Red Raiders beat Baylor, then Oklahoma State beats Oklahoma in Stillwater which is completely possible after the beatdown the Sooners laid on the Red Raiders, a letdown is completely pausable. Also Texas Tech has to get by Missouri in the Big 12 championship game as well.
If this situation happens, I would lose complete hope in the BCS and maybe the United States if USC or Penn State make into the BCS Championship. Granted I like both of those teams but they dont deserve it as much as Texas Tech. I dont care if they got their asses kicked by a whopping forty-four points, they deserve to play if the aforementioned situation occurs.
Another scary situation: What if one of these three loses to Mizzou in the Big 12 Title game? Then does USC (lets remember if the Oregon State Beavers win on Saturday, they are the Pac-10 Champions) or Penn State get in? Or do you allowed the team that didnt play for the Big 12 championship into the mix?
The BCS back again.
-Charlie.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Paving Way for Lebron
I would first like to give a shout-out to my boy Brett who has put out a new blog called Rocky's Rant as he joins the blog revolution.
The Knicks made some deals today which all surround them clearing the way for Lebron James in 2010 or any other free agent that tickles their fancy in 2010 which will be a historic year for free agency in the NBA.
The deals were....
Golden State gets Jamal Crawford
New York gets Al Harrington
Not a bad deal for the Knicks as they get a good post presence in Harrington who helps the rebounding load with David Lee and he will get a daily 15-20 points. Crawford fits nicely in Golden State and gets out of the guard-packed New York
LA Clippers get Zach Randolph, Marty Collins
New York get Tim Thomas, Cuttino Mobley
Clippers may now have one of the best big man combinations in the league in addition might have one of the most physical teams as well with having Marcus Camby, Chris Kaman, and now Randolph. Their guards should not be allowed to shoot the ball just throw it down into one of the three of those guys. The Knicks get Tim Thomas who still has some left in the tank as well as Cuttino Mobley who should give them good minutes.
What this all boils down to is the Knicks have now cleared enough money out of the way so they can bring Lebron James to New York. Granted they would settle for Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh, or Amare Stoudamire but they WANT/NEED Lebron James in Knicks' fans opinions. They feel that he belongs playing in MSG and getting the Knicks the titles they havent had for years.
-Charlie.
The Knicks made some deals today which all surround them clearing the way for Lebron James in 2010 or any other free agent that tickles their fancy in 2010 which will be a historic year for free agency in the NBA.
The deals were....
Golden State gets Jamal Crawford
New York gets Al Harrington
Not a bad deal for the Knicks as they get a good post presence in Harrington who helps the rebounding load with David Lee and he will get a daily 15-20 points. Crawford fits nicely in Golden State and gets out of the guard-packed New York
LA Clippers get Zach Randolph, Marty Collins
New York get Tim Thomas, Cuttino Mobley
Clippers may now have one of the best big man combinations in the league in addition might have one of the most physical teams as well with having Marcus Camby, Chris Kaman, and now Randolph. Their guards should not be allowed to shoot the ball just throw it down into one of the three of those guys. The Knicks get Tim Thomas who still has some left in the tank as well as Cuttino Mobley who should give them good minutes.
What this all boils down to is the Knicks have now cleared enough money out of the way so they can bring Lebron James to New York. Granted they would settle for Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh, or Amare Stoudamire but they WANT/NEED Lebron James in Knicks' fans opinions. They feel that he belongs playing in MSG and getting the Knicks the titles they havent had for years.
-Charlie.
First Upset of the Year
Ahh college basketball is back after two Pac-10 top 25 teams go down last night as 4. UCLA and 20. USC go down to Michigan and Seton Hall last night.
I watched most of the UCLA-Michigan game last night and I think Michigan is a team who are looking better than people expected this year as Coach John Beilein has his Wolverine team running the 1-3-1 defense just as good as his West Virigina. It confused UCLA the entire game and the inside game of the Bruins was nowhere to be found as they could not get anything inside and couldnt stop DeShawn Sims inside if their life depended on it.
I think this Wolverine team is much more than Manny Harris (projected 1st team Big Ten all-conference) and could do some damage in the Big Ten. Also now maybe all the Big Blue fans can forget about football seeing as their basketball team is alright. It will be interesting to see how they play against Duke because the Dukies have good three-point shooters yet their inside game is at the same level as UCLA so I wouldnt be surprised to see Michigan win again tonight.
Bad day for the Pac-10 as Seton Hall beat USC in a tournament and add the Pirates as another Big East team to watch out for. The Trojans in my opinion where a very good team and I was shocked to see them lose to a Pirate team who hasnt been that good in three or four years now. We will see if the Pirates can keep the magic up as they play Memphis tonight.
-Charlie.
I watched most of the UCLA-Michigan game last night and I think Michigan is a team who are looking better than people expected this year as Coach John Beilein has his Wolverine team running the 1-3-1 defense just as good as his West Virigina. It confused UCLA the entire game and the inside game of the Bruins was nowhere to be found as they could not get anything inside and couldnt stop DeShawn Sims inside if their life depended on it.
I think this Wolverine team is much more than Manny Harris (projected 1st team Big Ten all-conference) and could do some damage in the Big Ten. Also now maybe all the Big Blue fans can forget about football seeing as their basketball team is alright. It will be interesting to see how they play against Duke because the Dukies have good three-point shooters yet their inside game is at the same level as UCLA so I wouldnt be surprised to see Michigan win again tonight.
Bad day for the Pac-10 as Seton Hall beat USC in a tournament and add the Pirates as another Big East team to watch out for. The Trojans in my opinion where a very good team and I was shocked to see them lose to a Pirate team who hasnt been that good in three or four years now. We will see if the Pirates can keep the magic up as they play Memphis tonight.
-Charlie.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
NFL Picks Week 12
Another week of NFL and another week of seeing a lot of the same teams on the national level.
Cincinnati (1-8-1) at Pittsburgh (7-3)- Once again the Steelers are on TV and once again, I dont care. I wont pick against them because they play a Bengal team who doesnt have Chad Ocho Cinco and Ryan Fitzpatrick is their quarterback. PITT 31-10
Tampa Bay (7-3) at Detroit (0-9)- A former classic NFC Central rivalry where Barry Sanders would tear up the Bucs D but times have changed since then although the Lions have put up a fight in the last couple of weeks, still wont have a win come Sunday. TB 24-13
New York Jets (7-3) at Tennessee (10-0)- Lots of people are having fun pointing out that Brett Favre is 7-3 this year but they have one of the best 1-2 punches in the running game, solid O-line, and a decent defense. Now my head might exploded if Favre can beat the Titans this weekend but I do not see it happening as Favre still throws INTs which the Titans lead the league in. Uh-oh. TENN 24-10
Buffalo (5-5) at Kansas City (1-9)- How the mighty have fallen in Buffalo as they now have lost four straight and try to rite the ship in Arrowhead this weekend. Kansas City run defense is awful and that means a big day for Marshawn "Beast Mode" Lynch which is usually a win for the Bills. BUFF 27-17
Chicago (5-5) at St Louis (2-8)- How great was it to hear the Packers fans yelling "Bears still suck" last weekend and the Bears get to rebound against a hapless Ram team who by the way have the first player-coach in Marc Bulger who said "Some of the guys and me want to keep Jim Haslett." This is the same tool who got their coach fired so it sounds like his words are gold, too bad it wont win games. CHI 31-0
New England (6-4) at Miami (6-4)- Big time showdown in the AFC East this weekend and the Phins are looking for a sweep of the Patriots for the first time since the Marino years but sadly for the Phins, I think the Pats will play with a chip on their shoulder and able to squeak this one out. NE 17-14
Minnesota (5-5) at Jacksonville (4-6)- Another big test in Florida for the Vikings this weekend as they go up north to play the Jaguars. As I have said before, the Jags have been very disappointing this year and it should continue as the Vikings have too much for the Jags. MINN 28-21
Houston (3-7) at Cleveland (4-6)- The Browns really should be above .500 and I think that Brady Quinn is proving he is the real deal and already has said he is playing with a broken index finger so it will be interesting to see how it affects him. I expected a defensive game and Browns win by a FG. CLEV 16-13
San Francisco (3-7) at Dallas (6-4)- Sorry to my Cowboy/Redskin readers as I missed that game last weekend whoops, but I would of probably bet on the Boys and they should be able to get another win in this classic rivalry. DAL 31-17
Oakland (2-9) at Denver (6-4)- I think Mitch Pratt would do a better job coaching the Raiders as they seem like a lost cause once again this year. But the Broncos did the give the Chiefs their only win but Cutler already torn Oakland up once this year which he will do it again. DEN 35-14
Washington (6-4) at Seattle (2-9)- A rematch of the playoffs from last year and the Redskins have stayed on that same pace while the Seahawks have basically gave Washington state the "Worst Sports Year Ever" as both college teams are (0-10, 1-9), an NBA left, and the Mariners sucked. Sorry this weekend wont be better. WASH 31-17
New York Giants (9-1) at Arizona (7-3)- The Cardinals can clinch the pathetic NFC West with a win but it wont be easy as they play the Giants who have looked unreal in the last couple of weeks but I will take Kurt Warner and the Cards in a mild upset. ARZ 21-16
Carolina (8-2) at Atlanta (6-4)- Wow the Panthers are the second best team in the NFC right now and they are doing it with defense. In the first matchup, the Panthers were able to stop the run and the young Falcons team need to response after a defeat. Sorry Sepi, going against your boys this week. CAR 24-20
Indianapolis (6-4) at San Diego (4-6)- The Colts are heating up at the right time and the Chargers gave their confidence in Norv Turner which makes no sense since he is one of the worst in the NFL. I think Peyton Manning will be able to avenge the awful game he had in San Diego last year with a big win. IND 31-20
Green Bay (5-5) at New Orleans (5-5)- Big time matchup on Monday Night as both teams need wins to keep pace and I think the Packers defense is better than people talk about it which spells bad news for Drew Brees whose thrown INTs in bunches lately. Also watch for Aaron Rodgers to have a huge game. GB 34-28
-Charlie.
Cincinnati (1-8-1) at Pittsburgh (7-3)- Once again the Steelers are on TV and once again, I dont care. I wont pick against them because they play a Bengal team who doesnt have Chad Ocho Cinco and Ryan Fitzpatrick is their quarterback. PITT 31-10
Tampa Bay (7-3) at Detroit (0-9)- A former classic NFC Central rivalry where Barry Sanders would tear up the Bucs D but times have changed since then although the Lions have put up a fight in the last couple of weeks, still wont have a win come Sunday. TB 24-13
New York Jets (7-3) at Tennessee (10-0)- Lots of people are having fun pointing out that Brett Favre is 7-3 this year but they have one of the best 1-2 punches in the running game, solid O-line, and a decent defense. Now my head might exploded if Favre can beat the Titans this weekend but I do not see it happening as Favre still throws INTs which the Titans lead the league in. Uh-oh. TENN 24-10
Buffalo (5-5) at Kansas City (1-9)- How the mighty have fallen in Buffalo as they now have lost four straight and try to rite the ship in Arrowhead this weekend. Kansas City run defense is awful and that means a big day for Marshawn "Beast Mode" Lynch which is usually a win for the Bills. BUFF 27-17
Chicago (5-5) at St Louis (2-8)- How great was it to hear the Packers fans yelling "Bears still suck" last weekend and the Bears get to rebound against a hapless Ram team who by the way have the first player-coach in Marc Bulger who said "Some of the guys and me want to keep Jim Haslett." This is the same tool who got their coach fired so it sounds like his words are gold, too bad it wont win games. CHI 31-0
New England (6-4) at Miami (6-4)- Big time showdown in the AFC East this weekend and the Phins are looking for a sweep of the Patriots for the first time since the Marino years but sadly for the Phins, I think the Pats will play with a chip on their shoulder and able to squeak this one out. NE 17-14
Minnesota (5-5) at Jacksonville (4-6)- Another big test in Florida for the Vikings this weekend as they go up north to play the Jaguars. As I have said before, the Jags have been very disappointing this year and it should continue as the Vikings have too much for the Jags. MINN 28-21
Houston (3-7) at Cleveland (4-6)- The Browns really should be above .500 and I think that Brady Quinn is proving he is the real deal and already has said he is playing with a broken index finger so it will be interesting to see how it affects him. I expected a defensive game and Browns win by a FG. CLEV 16-13
San Francisco (3-7) at Dallas (6-4)- Sorry to my Cowboy/Redskin readers as I missed that game last weekend whoops, but I would of probably bet on the Boys and they should be able to get another win in this classic rivalry. DAL 31-17
Oakland (2-9) at Denver (6-4)- I think Mitch Pratt would do a better job coaching the Raiders as they seem like a lost cause once again this year. But the Broncos did the give the Chiefs their only win but Cutler already torn Oakland up once this year which he will do it again. DEN 35-14
Washington (6-4) at Seattle (2-9)- A rematch of the playoffs from last year and the Redskins have stayed on that same pace while the Seahawks have basically gave Washington state the "Worst Sports Year Ever" as both college teams are (0-10, 1-9), an NBA left, and the Mariners sucked. Sorry this weekend wont be better. WASH 31-17
New York Giants (9-1) at Arizona (7-3)- The Cardinals can clinch the pathetic NFC West with a win but it wont be easy as they play the Giants who have looked unreal in the last couple of weeks but I will take Kurt Warner and the Cards in a mild upset. ARZ 21-16
Carolina (8-2) at Atlanta (6-4)- Wow the Panthers are the second best team in the NFC right now and they are doing it with defense. In the first matchup, the Panthers were able to stop the run and the young Falcons team need to response after a defeat. Sorry Sepi, going against your boys this week. CAR 24-20
Indianapolis (6-4) at San Diego (4-6)- The Colts are heating up at the right time and the Chargers gave their confidence in Norv Turner which makes no sense since he is one of the worst in the NFL. I think Peyton Manning will be able to avenge the awful game he had in San Diego last year with a big win. IND 31-20
Green Bay (5-5) at New Orleans (5-5)- Big time matchup on Monday Night as both teams need wins to keep pace and I think the Packers defense is better than people talk about it which spells bad news for Drew Brees whose thrown INTs in bunches lately. Also watch for Aaron Rodgers to have a huge game. GB 34-28
-Charlie.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Pujols and Pedrioa win MVP..... What?
Tom Hardicourt might have a point.
He voted Albert Pujols 7th in his MVP voting and is receiving a lot of shit for it although he has a point. Pujols played on the fourth best team in his division, granted they had a good year and werent expected to do much but still fourth-place MVP. Also some would argue he is the most valuable player to any NL team. It doesnt matter that Pujols after losing to Ryan Howard in 2006 cried about how a team who didnt make the playoffs should win MVP...... hmm.
I would have to give the MVP to Howard this year even though his strikeout totals and numbers against lefties are awful. But I think what it boils down to is that they're really wasnt a clear cut favorite for MVP in either league.
Dustin Pedroia who had a good year but really an MVP year? Then I look at all the other players who were voted for and none of them really seemed as if they would deserve an MVP honor. Although what can be said about Pedroia is he was Mr. Everything for the Red Sox and is becoming like Nomar in the late 90s as a fan favorite plus the guy looked to in the clutch.
Also minor trade in the MLB as the Red Sox give Coco Crisp to the Royals for a reliever, not that it really matters and I am sure Crisp is jacked about heading to K.C.
-Charlie.
He voted Albert Pujols 7th in his MVP voting and is receiving a lot of shit for it although he has a point. Pujols played on the fourth best team in his division, granted they had a good year and werent expected to do much but still fourth-place MVP. Also some would argue he is the most valuable player to any NL team. It doesnt matter that Pujols after losing to Ryan Howard in 2006 cried about how a team who didnt make the playoffs should win MVP...... hmm.
I would have to give the MVP to Howard this year even though his strikeout totals and numbers against lefties are awful. But I think what it boils down to is that they're really wasnt a clear cut favorite for MVP in either league.
Dustin Pedroia who had a good year but really an MVP year? Then I look at all the other players who were voted for and none of them really seemed as if they would deserve an MVP honor. Although what can be said about Pedroia is he was Mr. Everything for the Red Sox and is becoming like Nomar in the late 90s as a fan favorite plus the guy looked to in the clutch.
Also minor trade in the MLB as the Red Sox give Coco Crisp to the Royals for a reliever, not that it really matters and I am sure Crisp is jacked about heading to K.C.
-Charlie.
Of Course the Owner of the A's Wants a One-Game Playoff
Lew Wolff thinks he has the best idea to shorten the MLB season and that is with a one game playoff for the Divisional Series.
This is could rank in the top 10 of the worst ideas made in the 2000s because yeah, lets base the divisional series off one game? Who knows what the weather is like and how prepared the pitchers are. Also take into consideration if a team has no experience and ends up winning arent they destined to just fall off in the League Championship Series?
I think that they could solve this problem by not giving a set date for the World Series because if you have two teams who win five games then why make them wait a week? Just start the series after three-four days to prepare. If you have something like you did this year then the series that went to seven should be sped up.
The real reason Wolff put this out there is because his team is the AL version of the Chicago Cubs; no matter how good they are during the regular season, they will not do shit in the playoffs because they choke against the Yankees or Red Sox like most AL West teams.
-Charlie.
This is could rank in the top 10 of the worst ideas made in the 2000s because yeah, lets base the divisional series off one game? Who knows what the weather is like and how prepared the pitchers are. Also take into consideration if a team has no experience and ends up winning arent they destined to just fall off in the League Championship Series?
I think that they could solve this problem by not giving a set date for the World Series because if you have two teams who win five games then why make them wait a week? Just start the series after three-four days to prepare. If you have something like you did this year then the series that went to seven should be sped up.
The real reason Wolff put this out there is because his team is the AL version of the Chicago Cubs; no matter how good they are during the regular season, they will not do shit in the playoffs because they choke against the Yankees or Red Sox like most AL West teams.
-Charlie.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Top 25 Picks- Rivalry Week
This is ESPN "Rivalry Week" as it was a big week for ESPN as they got the rights to the BCS from 2011-2015 which is awesome because FOX's run is over plus now they are on cable for the first time. On to the picks, this probably wont be completed until Wednesday but we will get started.
1. Alabama-BYE
2. Texas Tech-at 5. Oklahoma- Anyone whose a fan of offense, might i suggest you watching this game. This game could be like 63-60, I mean both defenses are not that good and both teams have some of the most explosive offensive players in the nation. Granted I think the Sooners are the favorite being at home in Norman but the Red Raiders will continue their run on another Graham Harrell-Michael Crabtree game winner. TTECH 52-48
3. Texas-BYE
4. Florida-vs. Cidatel- Haha a pointless game for Urban Meyer and the Gators. Tebow will likely go off like he usually does and be checking out the girls in the Gator student section by the second quarter. UF 56-0
5. Oklahoma-see 2. Texas Tech
6. USC-BYE
7. Utah-vs. 14. BYU- Ah the Mormon battle that everyone in the state of Utah has been waiting for and thanks to a "Big Ten Network style" called The MTN. none of us will see the game, not that I really cared too much about it. Cheering for the Cougars to keep the BCS pure. BYU 35-31
8. Penn State-vs. 15. Michigan State- This should be a great Big 10 battle as two of the best in the Big Ten take on each other in their annual rivalry. Michigan State's offense needs to look at the plans of Iowa to figure out how to run the ball on Penn State. I think this one will be close for awhile then by end of the game Penn State pulls away. PSU 28-17
9. Boise State-at Nevada- The Broncos play a pretty good Wolfpack team whose lost some close ones in conference. I really think my day would be complete if both the non-BCS threats go down and it can happen. NEVADA 41-38
10. Ohio State-vs. Michigan- Remember when the Buckeyes are 19 point favorites, remember how Jim Tressel owns the Wolverines. Granted this would make Rich Rod season as he receives as much hate mail as Soulja Boy, but Beanie Wells should have a field day plus no Steven Threet will hurt Michigan. OSU 45-21
11. Georgia-BYE
12. Oklahoma State-BYE
13. Missouri-BYE
14. BYU-See 7. Utah
15. Michigan State-See 8. Penn State
16. TCU-vs. Air Force- This should be another good Mountain West battle as the two other top teams of the Mountain West play each other. I will take the Horned Frogs because they are at home and they have a sweet nickname. TCU 31-20
17. Ball State-at Central Michigan- The MAC showdown of the year and this game I might end up watching tonight because it should be a high-scoring battle as Nate Davis goes up against Dan LeFavour, both are big time NFL prospects, this game truly of a toss-up and I have been pulling for the Cardinals since Dante Love's injury so I will keep it up. BSU 38-35
18. LSU-vs. Mississippi- There was almost a rebillion in Baton Rouge after the Tigers almost lost to the Trojans of Troy and that was the wake up call they needed for this game against the Rebels although expect this be very close. LSU 24-21
19. Cincinnati-vs. 20. Pittsburgh- I didnt realize how many quarterbacks the Bearcats have went through this year and now they are likely getting Tony Pike for the game against the Panthers. This game I have feeling will go down to the wire with Pitt pulling it off on a late field goal. PITT 27-24
20. Pittsburgh- see 19. Cincinnati
21. Oregon State-at Arizona- The Beavers could be the Pac-10 champs if they win out and they make their first appearance in the Top 25. They have the best freshman in the nation- Jacquizz Rodgers but I see the Wildcats pulling off the upset as the Beavers will be looking ahead to the Civil War. ZONA 28-24
22. North Carolina-vs. NC State- A big rivalry on Tobacco Road as its good to be a Tar Heel with successful teams in football/basketball which isnt common. I dont see the Heels have a problem with the Wolfpack as they should roll in this one. UNC 41-17
23. Miami-at Georgia Tech- The U is back in the Top 25 and for that I am able to play a video that's a favorite amongst me and friends. Ed Reed at his finest and I really think the Canes have a good chance at beating the Yellow Jackets. This one will be a battle to the end, I got the U by a teeder late. MIA 20-14
24. Oregon-BYE
25. Maryland-vs. Florida State- Another big ACC matchup as their conference is more confusing than Don Vito on good day, the Terps seemed to have broken past their inconsistency and the Noles I believe are still a year away from being very good. TERPS 28-20
Others Games to Watch
West Virigina at Louisville
Syracuse at Notre Dame
Stanford at California
Iowa at Minnesota
-Charlie.
1. Alabama-BYE
2. Texas Tech-at 5. Oklahoma- Anyone whose a fan of offense, might i suggest you watching this game. This game could be like 63-60, I mean both defenses are not that good and both teams have some of the most explosive offensive players in the nation. Granted I think the Sooners are the favorite being at home in Norman but the Red Raiders will continue their run on another Graham Harrell-Michael Crabtree game winner. TTECH 52-48
3. Texas-BYE
4. Florida-vs. Cidatel- Haha a pointless game for Urban Meyer and the Gators. Tebow will likely go off like he usually does and be checking out the girls in the Gator student section by the second quarter. UF 56-0
5. Oklahoma-see 2. Texas Tech
6. USC-BYE
7. Utah-vs. 14. BYU- Ah the Mormon battle that everyone in the state of Utah has been waiting for and thanks to a "Big Ten Network style" called The MTN. none of us will see the game, not that I really cared too much about it. Cheering for the Cougars to keep the BCS pure. BYU 35-31
8. Penn State-vs. 15. Michigan State- This should be a great Big 10 battle as two of the best in the Big Ten take on each other in their annual rivalry. Michigan State's offense needs to look at the plans of Iowa to figure out how to run the ball on Penn State. I think this one will be close for awhile then by end of the game Penn State pulls away. PSU 28-17
9. Boise State-at Nevada- The Broncos play a pretty good Wolfpack team whose lost some close ones in conference. I really think my day would be complete if both the non-BCS threats go down and it can happen. NEVADA 41-38
10. Ohio State-vs. Michigan- Remember when the Buckeyes are 19 point favorites, remember how Jim Tressel owns the Wolverines. Granted this would make Rich Rod season as he receives as much hate mail as Soulja Boy, but Beanie Wells should have a field day plus no Steven Threet will hurt Michigan. OSU 45-21
11. Georgia-BYE
12. Oklahoma State-BYE
13. Missouri-BYE
14. BYU-See 7. Utah
15. Michigan State-See 8. Penn State
16. TCU-vs. Air Force- This should be another good Mountain West battle as the two other top teams of the Mountain West play each other. I will take the Horned Frogs because they are at home and they have a sweet nickname. TCU 31-20
17. Ball State-at Central Michigan- The MAC showdown of the year and this game I might end up watching tonight because it should be a high-scoring battle as Nate Davis goes up against Dan LeFavour, both are big time NFL prospects, this game truly of a toss-up and I have been pulling for the Cardinals since Dante Love's injury so I will keep it up. BSU 38-35
18. LSU-vs. Mississippi- There was almost a rebillion in Baton Rouge after the Tigers almost lost to the Trojans of Troy and that was the wake up call they needed for this game against the Rebels although expect this be very close. LSU 24-21
19. Cincinnati-vs. 20. Pittsburgh- I didnt realize how many quarterbacks the Bearcats have went through this year and now they are likely getting Tony Pike for the game against the Panthers. This game I have feeling will go down to the wire with Pitt pulling it off on a late field goal. PITT 27-24
20. Pittsburgh- see 19. Cincinnati
21. Oregon State-at Arizona- The Beavers could be the Pac-10 champs if they win out and they make their first appearance in the Top 25. They have the best freshman in the nation- Jacquizz Rodgers but I see the Wildcats pulling off the upset as the Beavers will be looking ahead to the Civil War. ZONA 28-24
22. North Carolina-vs. NC State- A big rivalry on Tobacco Road as its good to be a Tar Heel with successful teams in football/basketball which isnt common. I dont see the Heels have a problem with the Wolfpack as they should roll in this one. UNC 41-17
23. Miami-at Georgia Tech- The U is back in the Top 25 and for that I am able to play a video that's a favorite amongst me and friends. Ed Reed at his finest and I really think the Canes have a good chance at beating the Yellow Jackets. This one will be a battle to the end, I got the U by a teeder late. MIA 20-14
24. Oregon-BYE
25. Maryland-vs. Florida State- Another big ACC matchup as their conference is more confusing than Don Vito on good day, the Terps seemed to have broken past their inconsistency and the Noles I believe are still a year away from being very good. TERPS 28-20
Others Games to Watch
West Virigina at Louisville
Syracuse at Notre Dame
Stanford at California
Iowa at Minnesota
-Charlie.
Too Much Paid for a Dumpster
Ryan Dempster is now making 13 million a year..... lets that sink in for a minute.
The guy who was a closer no more than two years who if he was still in that role would have probably made 3-5 million a year at most but he has one good year in his contract year, the Cubs decide that he is worth the same amount of money as Ted Lilly got last year (Both dont deserve it) and gives us the first "major" signing of MLB Free Agency.
I think that Dempster might be better than Lilly but lets take into consideration that Lilly is younger plus he is a lefty too. I had assumed that Dempster would land in Kansas City, Washington, or Baltimore basically some team who throws money at people for no reason. I have thought that the Cubs despite my hatred were usually pretty good with their money and this proves me wrong completely. He had only one other year like this and that was in Florida awhile back so its unproven that he will string two good years together.
Also I think this proves that the Cubs couldnt put together a deal for Jake Peavy so they settled for Dempster and believe that the combination of Dempster-Carlos Zambrano-Rich Harden will be a force in the National League. I think its about as shaky as Mark Cuban's financial advisor because Zambrano is the only one that you can count on even though he has gotten hurt as of late.
-Charlie.
The guy who was a closer no more than two years who if he was still in that role would have probably made 3-5 million a year at most but he has one good year in his contract year, the Cubs decide that he is worth the same amount of money as Ted Lilly got last year (Both dont deserve it) and gives us the first "major" signing of MLB Free Agency.
I think that Dempster might be better than Lilly but lets take into consideration that Lilly is younger plus he is a lefty too. I had assumed that Dempster would land in Kansas City, Washington, or Baltimore basically some team who throws money at people for no reason. I have thought that the Cubs despite my hatred were usually pretty good with their money and this proves me wrong completely. He had only one other year like this and that was in Florida awhile back so its unproven that he will string two good years together.
Also I think this proves that the Cubs couldnt put together a deal for Jake Peavy so they settled for Dempster and believe that the combination of Dempster-Carlos Zambrano-Rich Harden will be a force in the National League. I think its about as shaky as Mark Cuban's financial advisor because Zambrano is the only one that you can count on even though he has gotten hurt as of late.
-Charlie.
The Only College Basketball Preview of Importance
Here it is as the college basketball season tips off this week, we give you a college basketball preview and we will do the top games of the week on Sunday, and give you my thoughts/analysis as that seems like the only way to do it and maybe a new one for Saturday/Sunday. So this will give you key players, key games, and a breakdown of each team.
1. North Carolina (ACC)- Key Players: Tyler Hansbrough, Ty Lawson, Wayne Ellington, Tyler Zeller, and Danny Green. Key Games: vs. Kentucky, Maui Invitational, at Michigan State, at Wake Forest, vs/at Miami (1/17, 2/15), at/vs Duke (2/11, 3/8). I think the Tar Heels could very well run the table as they have their best team since 2005 and they might go unbeaten although the ACC always. I think they lose two games at best and are my favorites for NCAA champions.
2 Connecticut (Big East)- Key Players: Jerome Dyson, Hasheem Thabeet, Jeff Adrian, A.J. Price. Key Games: Paradise Jam, at Gonzaga, vs. Georgetown, vs. Villanova, at/vs Notre Dame (1/24, 2/28), at Louisville, vs/at Pittsburgh (2/16, 3/7), at Marquette. Whenever the Huskies have big expectations they usually live up to it the big thing will be if this UConn team will play like they give a shit unlike the team who lost to George Mason who had all the talent in the NCAA.
3 Louisville (Big East)- Key Players: Terrence Williams, Jerry Smith, Edgar Sosa, Earl Clark, and Samardo Samuels. Key Games: at Minnesota, vs. Kentucky, at Villanova, vs/at Notre Dame(1/12, 2/12), vs. Pittsburgh, vs. Connecticut, at Georgetown, vs. Marquette. I would label the Cardinals as the favorite of the Big East with most of their big games at home and I really like the makeup of this team, the second team in my Final Four.
4. UCLA (Pac-10)- Key Players: Darren Collison, Josh Shipp, and Jrue Holiday. Key Games: 2k Sports Classic, at Texas, at/vs USC (1/11, 2/4), vs. /at Arizona State (1/17, 2/12), Notre Dame (2/7). I think the Bruins are bit overrated, granted they play in a rather weak conference but they really dont have much power in the front court.
5. Michigan State (Big 10)- Key Players: Raymar Morgan, Goran Suton, Kalin Lucus, and Chris Allen. Key Games: Old Spice Classic, vs. North Carolina, at Texas, vs. Kansas, at Purdue, vs. Wisconsin. The Spartans have a pretty light schedule in the Big 10 only have to playing the top-tier one time instead of two and I think they could be a Final Four contender as they have a good mix of great guard play and Suton is a beast in the middle.
6. Pittsburgh (Big East)- Key Players: DeJuan Blair, Levance Fields (8th year?!), Sam Young. Key Games: at Georgetown, at Louisville, at Villanova, Notre Dame, at/vs. Connecticut (2/16, 3/7), Marquette. I thought MU's Big East schedule was bad, yikes the Panthers play alot of their big games on the road which might hurt them in the regular season standings but they will be a strong team come the tournament.
7. Texas (Big 12)- Key Players: A.J. Abrams, Connor Atchley, Damion James, Dexter Pittman. Key Games: Maui Invitational, vs. UCLA, vs. Villanova, vs. Michigan State, at Wisconsin, at/vs. Oklahoma (1/12, 2/21) , at Kansas. They will be battling the Sooners for the top spot in the Big 12 but Abrams is a dangerous player for them, a favorite to be in the running for playof the year this year. I expect big things from the Longhorns.
8. Notre Dame (Big East)-Key Players: Luke Harangody, Kyle McAlerney, Ryan Ayers, Tory Jackson. Key Games: Maui Invitational, Georgetown, at/vs Louisville (1/12, 2/12), vs/at Connecticut (1/24, 2/28), vs. Marquette, at Pittsburgh, at UCLA, and vs. Villanova. I think the Irish are too high as I think they will finish middle of the Big East because I believe Harangoody as my pops says, "He's only good when he gets refs that let him get away with things inside." Completely agree.
9. Gonzaga (WCC)- Key Players: Josh Heytvelt, Austin Daye, Matt Bouldin, Jeremy Pargo, and Micah Downs. Key Games: Old Spice Classic, at Arizona, vs. Connecticut, at Tennessee, vs/at St. Mary's (1/29, 2/12). Lots of people think the Zags are the real deal this year and believe this could be their year for the Final Four. I think they have some of the best big men in the nation and that will keep them in the top 10 all year.
10. Duke (ACC)- Key Players: Nolan Smith, Gerlad Henderson, Kyle Singler, Jon Scheyer, and Greg Paulus. Key Games: 2k Sports Classic, at Purdue, vs. Davidson, at/vs Wake Forest (1/28, 2/22), vs. Miami, vs/at North Carolina (2/11, 3/8). The Dukies were unimpressive against Rhode Island but its still very early in the season. I think Duke will contend for a top 3 spot in the NCAA tourney but they wont smell the ACC Championship from the Tar Heels.
11. Purdue (Big Ten)- Key Players: E'Twaun Moore, Robbie Hummel, Keaton Grant. Key Games: Preseason NIT, vs. Duke, vs. Davidson, vs/at Wisconsin (1/11, 1/27), at Michigan State. As I said before, the Big 10 isnt great this year and there are really only three teams that provide true threats. I think they wont do much in the NCAA tourney.
12. Oklahoma (Big 12)- Key Players: Blake Griffen, Willie Warren, Cade Davis, Tony Crocker. Key Games: Preseason NIT, vs. USC, at/vs Texas (1/12, 2/21), vs. Kansas. I really like the Sooners chances to be dangerous in the Tourney and all year because Blake Griffin is good enough to carry his team on his shoulder plus Warren is a freshman stud. Exciting year in the Big 12.
13. Memphis (C-USA)- Key Players: Tyreke Evans, Shawn Taggart, Doneal Mack, Antonio Anderson, Robert Doizer. Key Games: at Georgetown, vs. Syracuse, at Tennessee. They are the basketball version of BYU, or Utah because they barely play anyone in their conference so if they get it done against their two tough non-conference opponents. Also look for Tyreke Evans, he will have a huge year for the Tigers this year.
14. Tennessee (SEC)- Key Players: Tyler Smith, Scotty Hopson, J.P. Prince, Wayne Chism. Key Games: vs. Marquette, at Kansas, vs. Gonzaga, vs. Memphis, vs/at Florida (1/31, 3/1). The SEC is about as weak as an 80 year old man. The Vols really should roll through the whole season minus the Gators they really have nothing to worry about. When it comes to tourney, they are a sweet 16 team at best.
15. Arizona State (Pac-10)- Key Players: James Harden, Ty Abbott, Jeff Pendergraph. Key Games: at USC (1/15, 2/12) at UCLA (1/17, 2/15). The Sun Devils schedule is very tough in the Pac-10 because both times they play USC, UCLA, and Arizona all in the road on the road then at home in that same fashion. James Harden will be a star this year though.
16. Marquette-SEE ARTICLE
17. Miami (FL) (ACC)- Key Players: Jack McClinton, Dwayne Collins, Eddie Rios, Brian Ashbury. Key Games: at Kentucky, at/vs North Carolina (1/17, 2/15), vs. Wake Forest, at Duke. Their schedule isnt that intimidating for an ACC one and their non-conference is pretty soft. Dont be surprised if the U hangs around the top 10 for most of the year, they remind of the classic "After Duke-UNC" ACC power.
18. Florida (SEC)- Key Players: Nick Calathes, Dan Werner, Walter Hodge. Key Games: CBC Classic, vs. NC State at/vs Tennessee (1/31 3/1). Really nothing too exciting about their schedule, they are still a young team whose maybe a year away from being real good but because of their poor conference, they will be in the top 15 battling it out when Tennessee for the SEC crown.
19. USC (Pac-10)- Key Players: Dwight Lewis, Taj Gibson, DeMar DeRozen, Daniel Hackett. Key games: at Oklahoma, vs./at UCLA (1/11, 2/4) vs./at Arizona State (1/15 2/15). Man to think if OJ Mayo would have stayed another year, no matter what they still have a very good sqaud and I think they will be the second-best Pac-10 maybe push the Bruins for that top spot.
20. Wake Forest (ACC)- Key Players: Al-Faroug Aminu, James Johnson, Jeff Teague, Tony Woods. Key Games: Old Spice Classic, vs. North Carolina, vs./at Duke (1/28 ,2/22), at Miami. The Demon Decons welcome a great freshman class with Aminu and Woods who figure to carry the scoring load but the question is will this young team be able to handle the rigor of an ACC season?
21. Davidson (Big South)- Key Players: Stephan "Badger Killer" Curry, Andrew Lovedale, Brendan McKillop, Bryant Barr: Key Games: Preseason NIT, at Purdue, at Duke, vs West Virigina. Can they repeat the success they had last year? Who knows but what I do know is Stephan Curry will be right up there for Player of the Year and I think he will handle being the point guard just fine.
22. Georgetown (Big East)- Key Players: Jessie Sapp, DaJaun Summers, Greg Monroe, Austin Freeman, Chris Wright. Key Games: vs. Memphis, at Connecticut, vs Pittburgh, at Notre Dame, at Duke, at/vs. Marquette (1/31, 2/21), vs. Louisville, at Villanova. The Hoyas get the luxury of only playing one of the top 25 teams twice but they still face a tough beginning of the year with a young squad. Watch out for Greg Monroe, he will be a stud.
23. Villanova (Big East)- Key Players: Scottie Reynolds, Dante Cunningham, Corey Stokes. Key Games: vs. Texas, at Marquette (1/1, 2/10), vs. Louisville, at Connecticut, vs. Pittsburgh, vs. Georgetown, at Notre Dame. Watch out for the Wildcats, they might not be that much of a factor in the Big East but I think when you get to the tournament, they will be a very strong team and a true sleeper when they are a 6 or 7 seed.
24. Kansas (Big 12)- Key Players: Sheron Collins, Cole Aldrich, Quintrell Thomas. Key Games: CBE Classic, at Arizona, vs. Tennessee, at Michigan State, at Oklahoma, vs. Texas. The defending national champs look like most of the teams recently that win championships as they have little to none coming back. I think the Jayhawks will get the tournament and be alright in the Big 12.
25. Wisconsin (Big Ten) Key Players: Marcus Landry, Jason Bohannon, Trevon Hughes. Key Games: Paradise Jam, at Marquette, vs. Texas, at/vs Purdue (1/11, 1/27), at Michigan State. The Badgers are nowhere near the team they have had the last couple of years but they are still in the top-tier of the Big 10, look for them to make the tourney but no real noise.
Other Teams to Watch
St. Mary (WCC)
Baylor (Big 12)
Xavier (Atlantic 10)
UNLV (MWC)
Syracuse (Big East)
It should be a great year.
-Charlie. *There may be some spelling errors from 20-25, the computer wouldnt let me spell check sorry*
1. North Carolina (ACC)- Key Players: Tyler Hansbrough, Ty Lawson, Wayne Ellington, Tyler Zeller, and Danny Green. Key Games: vs. Kentucky, Maui Invitational, at Michigan State, at Wake Forest, vs/at Miami (1/17, 2/15), at/vs Duke (2/11, 3/8). I think the Tar Heels could very well run the table as they have their best team since 2005 and they might go unbeaten although the ACC always. I think they lose two games at best and are my favorites for NCAA champions.
2 Connecticut (Big East)- Key Players: Jerome Dyson, Hasheem Thabeet, Jeff Adrian, A.J. Price. Key Games: Paradise Jam, at Gonzaga, vs. Georgetown, vs. Villanova, at/vs Notre Dame (1/24, 2/28), at Louisville, vs/at Pittsburgh (2/16, 3/7), at Marquette. Whenever the Huskies have big expectations they usually live up to it the big thing will be if this UConn team will play like they give a shit unlike the team who lost to George Mason who had all the talent in the NCAA.
3 Louisville (Big East)- Key Players: Terrence Williams, Jerry Smith, Edgar Sosa, Earl Clark, and Samardo Samuels. Key Games: at Minnesota, vs. Kentucky, at Villanova, vs/at Notre Dame(1/12, 2/12), vs. Pittsburgh, vs. Connecticut, at Georgetown, vs. Marquette. I would label the Cardinals as the favorite of the Big East with most of their big games at home and I really like the makeup of this team, the second team in my Final Four.
4. UCLA (Pac-10)- Key Players: Darren Collison, Josh Shipp, and Jrue Holiday. Key Games: 2k Sports Classic, at Texas, at/vs USC (1/11, 2/4), vs. /at Arizona State (1/17, 2/12), Notre Dame (2/7). I think the Bruins are bit overrated, granted they play in a rather weak conference but they really dont have much power in the front court.
5. Michigan State (Big 10)- Key Players: Raymar Morgan, Goran Suton, Kalin Lucus, and Chris Allen. Key Games: Old Spice Classic, vs. North Carolina, at Texas, vs. Kansas, at Purdue, vs. Wisconsin. The Spartans have a pretty light schedule in the Big 10 only have to playing the top-tier one time instead of two and I think they could be a Final Four contender as they have a good mix of great guard play and Suton is a beast in the middle.
6. Pittsburgh (Big East)- Key Players: DeJuan Blair, Levance Fields (8th year?!), Sam Young. Key Games: at Georgetown, at Louisville, at Villanova, Notre Dame, at/vs. Connecticut (2/16, 3/7), Marquette. I thought MU's Big East schedule was bad, yikes the Panthers play alot of their big games on the road which might hurt them in the regular season standings but they will be a strong team come the tournament.
7. Texas (Big 12)- Key Players: A.J. Abrams, Connor Atchley, Damion James, Dexter Pittman. Key Games: Maui Invitational, vs. UCLA, vs. Villanova, vs. Michigan State, at Wisconsin, at/vs. Oklahoma (1/12, 2/21) , at Kansas. They will be battling the Sooners for the top spot in the Big 12 but Abrams is a dangerous player for them, a favorite to be in the running for playof the year this year. I expect big things from the Longhorns.
8. Notre Dame (Big East)-Key Players: Luke Harangody, Kyle McAlerney, Ryan Ayers, Tory Jackson. Key Games: Maui Invitational, Georgetown, at/vs Louisville (1/12, 2/12), vs/at Connecticut (1/24, 2/28), vs. Marquette, at Pittsburgh, at UCLA, and vs. Villanova. I think the Irish are too high as I think they will finish middle of the Big East because I believe Harangoody as my pops says, "He's only good when he gets refs that let him get away with things inside." Completely agree.
9. Gonzaga (WCC)- Key Players: Josh Heytvelt, Austin Daye, Matt Bouldin, Jeremy Pargo, and Micah Downs. Key Games: Old Spice Classic, at Arizona, vs. Connecticut, at Tennessee, vs/at St. Mary's (1/29, 2/12). Lots of people think the Zags are the real deal this year and believe this could be their year for the Final Four. I think they have some of the best big men in the nation and that will keep them in the top 10 all year.
10. Duke (ACC)- Key Players: Nolan Smith, Gerlad Henderson, Kyle Singler, Jon Scheyer, and Greg Paulus. Key Games: 2k Sports Classic, at Purdue, vs. Davidson, at/vs Wake Forest (1/28, 2/22), vs. Miami, vs/at North Carolina (2/11, 3/8). The Dukies were unimpressive against Rhode Island but its still very early in the season. I think Duke will contend for a top 3 spot in the NCAA tourney but they wont smell the ACC Championship from the Tar Heels.
11. Purdue (Big Ten)- Key Players: E'Twaun Moore, Robbie Hummel, Keaton Grant. Key Games: Preseason NIT, vs. Duke, vs. Davidson, vs/at Wisconsin (1/11, 1/27), at Michigan State. As I said before, the Big 10 isnt great this year and there are really only three teams that provide true threats. I think they wont do much in the NCAA tourney.
12. Oklahoma (Big 12)- Key Players: Blake Griffen, Willie Warren, Cade Davis, Tony Crocker. Key Games: Preseason NIT, vs. USC, at/vs Texas (1/12, 2/21), vs. Kansas. I really like the Sooners chances to be dangerous in the Tourney and all year because Blake Griffin is good enough to carry his team on his shoulder plus Warren is a freshman stud. Exciting year in the Big 12.
13. Memphis (C-USA)- Key Players: Tyreke Evans, Shawn Taggart, Doneal Mack, Antonio Anderson, Robert Doizer. Key Games: at Georgetown, vs. Syracuse, at Tennessee. They are the basketball version of BYU, or Utah because they barely play anyone in their conference so if they get it done against their two tough non-conference opponents. Also look for Tyreke Evans, he will have a huge year for the Tigers this year.
14. Tennessee (SEC)- Key Players: Tyler Smith, Scotty Hopson, J.P. Prince, Wayne Chism. Key Games: vs. Marquette, at Kansas, vs. Gonzaga, vs. Memphis, vs/at Florida (1/31, 3/1). The SEC is about as weak as an 80 year old man. The Vols really should roll through the whole season minus the Gators they really have nothing to worry about. When it comes to tourney, they are a sweet 16 team at best.
15. Arizona State (Pac-10)- Key Players: James Harden, Ty Abbott, Jeff Pendergraph. Key Games: at USC (1/15, 2/12) at UCLA (1/17, 2/15). The Sun Devils schedule is very tough in the Pac-10 because both times they play USC, UCLA, and Arizona all in the road on the road then at home in that same fashion. James Harden will be a star this year though.
16. Marquette-SEE ARTICLE
17. Miami (FL) (ACC)- Key Players: Jack McClinton, Dwayne Collins, Eddie Rios, Brian Ashbury. Key Games: at Kentucky, at/vs North Carolina (1/17, 2/15), vs. Wake Forest, at Duke. Their schedule isnt that intimidating for an ACC one and their non-conference is pretty soft. Dont be surprised if the U hangs around the top 10 for most of the year, they remind of the classic "After Duke-UNC" ACC power.
18. Florida (SEC)- Key Players: Nick Calathes, Dan Werner, Walter Hodge. Key Games: CBC Classic, vs. NC State at/vs Tennessee (1/31 3/1). Really nothing too exciting about their schedule, they are still a young team whose maybe a year away from being real good but because of their poor conference, they will be in the top 15 battling it out when Tennessee for the SEC crown.
19. USC (Pac-10)- Key Players: Dwight Lewis, Taj Gibson, DeMar DeRozen, Daniel Hackett. Key games: at Oklahoma, vs./at UCLA (1/11, 2/4) vs./at Arizona State (1/15 2/15). Man to think if OJ Mayo would have stayed another year, no matter what they still have a very good sqaud and I think they will be the second-best Pac-10 maybe push the Bruins for that top spot.
20. Wake Forest (ACC)- Key Players: Al-Faroug Aminu, James Johnson, Jeff Teague, Tony Woods. Key Games: Old Spice Classic, vs. North Carolina, vs./at Duke (1/28 ,2/22), at Miami. The Demon Decons welcome a great freshman class with Aminu and Woods who figure to carry the scoring load but the question is will this young team be able to handle the rigor of an ACC season?
21. Davidson (Big South)- Key Players: Stephan "Badger Killer" Curry, Andrew Lovedale, Brendan McKillop, Bryant Barr: Key Games: Preseason NIT, at Purdue, at Duke, vs West Virigina. Can they repeat the success they had last year? Who knows but what I do know is Stephan Curry will be right up there for Player of the Year and I think he will handle being the point guard just fine.
22. Georgetown (Big East)- Key Players: Jessie Sapp, DaJaun Summers, Greg Monroe, Austin Freeman, Chris Wright. Key Games: vs. Memphis, at Connecticut, vs Pittburgh, at Notre Dame, at Duke, at/vs. Marquette (1/31, 2/21), vs. Louisville, at Villanova. The Hoyas get the luxury of only playing one of the top 25 teams twice but they still face a tough beginning of the year with a young squad. Watch out for Greg Monroe, he will be a stud.
23. Villanova (Big East)- Key Players: Scottie Reynolds, Dante Cunningham, Corey Stokes. Key Games: vs. Texas, at Marquette (1/1, 2/10), vs. Louisville, at Connecticut, vs. Pittsburgh, vs. Georgetown, at Notre Dame. Watch out for the Wildcats, they might not be that much of a factor in the Big East but I think when you get to the tournament, they will be a very strong team and a true sleeper when they are a 6 or 7 seed.
24. Kansas (Big 12)- Key Players: Sheron Collins, Cole Aldrich, Quintrell Thomas. Key Games: CBE Classic, at Arizona, vs. Tennessee, at Michigan State, at Oklahoma, vs. Texas. The defending national champs look like most of the teams recently that win championships as they have little to none coming back. I think the Jayhawks will get the tournament and be alright in the Big 12.
25. Wisconsin (Big Ten) Key Players: Marcus Landry, Jason Bohannon, Trevon Hughes. Key Games: Paradise Jam, at Marquette, vs. Texas, at/vs Purdue (1/11, 1/27), at Michigan State. The Badgers are nowhere near the team they have had the last couple of years but they are still in the top-tier of the Big 10, look for them to make the tourney but no real noise.
Other Teams to Watch
St. Mary (WCC)
Baylor (Big 12)
Xavier (Atlantic 10)
UNLV (MWC)
Syracuse (Big East)
It should be a great year.
-Charlie. *There may be some spelling errors from 20-25, the computer wouldnt let me spell check sorry*
Monday, November 17, 2008
Dear Roger.......
Please make overtime a college football style, thanks Chuck.
If you read Pat's Proclamations, he just had an article about how overtime in the NFL is awful and isnt the way to go. As you saw yesterday, the Philadelphia Eagles and the Cincinnati Bengals resulted in a 13-13 tie which is the first since 2002 but still there is need for a change. I asked him last night "Quite the foreshadow on OT" and he goes "No shit, you agree?"
Why I yes I do, I think the way college football does overtime is the right way to do it because you dont deal with stamina issues if the NFL would keep doing 15:00 OTs until someone won the game because I think thats just ridiculous. I mean even if they wanted to keep the sudden death format then after 15:00 goes to the College Football style and start every possession at the twenty-five then go to two-point conversion at the end of the third overtime to decide a winner. One tweak i might have is to push back the start to the 40 because then most teams would need seven-ten yards to get into Field Goal range.
Look at this way, the NHL was the last pro sports industry in America with ties, then they decided to go to a shoot-out format which made the game much more entertaining. How about you try the same Mr. Goodell.
-Charlie.
If you read Pat's Proclamations, he just had an article about how overtime in the NFL is awful and isnt the way to go. As you saw yesterday, the Philadelphia Eagles and the Cincinnati Bengals resulted in a 13-13 tie which is the first since 2002 but still there is need for a change. I asked him last night "Quite the foreshadow on OT" and he goes "No shit, you agree?"
Why I yes I do, I think the way college football does overtime is the right way to do it because you dont deal with stamina issues if the NFL would keep doing 15:00 OTs until someone won the game because I think thats just ridiculous. I mean even if they wanted to keep the sudden death format then after 15:00 goes to the College Football style and start every possession at the twenty-five then go to two-point conversion at the end of the third overtime to decide a winner. One tweak i might have is to push back the start to the 40 because then most teams would need seven-ten yards to get into Field Goal range.
Look at this way, the NHL was the last pro sports industry in America with ties, then they decided to go to a shoot-out format which made the game much more entertaining. How about you try the same Mr. Goodell.
-Charlie.
Business has Just Picked Up in the NFC North
5-5
The record of three of the four teams in the NFC North after the Packers dismantled the Bears and the Vikings allowed 13 unanswered against the Buccaneers which might not be the best conference in the NFC but it isnt easy either as all three of these teams are likely battling for only one playoff spot. So here at Chuck's Corner we will breakdown each schedule and see who has an easy or hard road to the playoffs and what games could be traps.
Green Bay Schedule
-at New Orleans
-Carolina
-Houston
- at Jacksonville
-at Chicago
-Detroit
Chicago Schedule
-at St. Louis
-at Minnesota
-Jacksonville
-New Orleans
-Green Bay
-at Houston
Minnesota Schedule
-at Jacksonville
-Chicago
-at Detroit
-at Arizona
-Atlanta
-NY Giants
What you have here is all three teams have to play Jacksonville- two on the road (Vikings and Packers) who arent as good as expected but they are still a tough team no matter especially on the road. The Bears still have to play the Vikings and Packers one more time which gives them an advantage on overall division games.
The Vikes/Pack get the luxury of playing the Lions one more time. The Vikings by far have the hardest road playing Atlanta (likely fighting for a playoff spot) and on the road in Arizona (lets all remember Nathan Poole). The Giants might be tough but they probably will have a playoff spot by then. Also lets remember Brad Childress is their coach.
Chicago is the wildcard here because they have to deal with a short week against New Orleans and as I said a tough Jaguar team. Also for the Bears dont overlook thier last game versus Houston.
Finally, I think the Packers have the easiest road as I see them losing two at most, but realistically one (NO, CAR, or JAX). I think they can sweep the Bears but in my opinion, that game will decide the division.
-Charlie.
The record of three of the four teams in the NFC North after the Packers dismantled the Bears and the Vikings allowed 13 unanswered against the Buccaneers which might not be the best conference in the NFC but it isnt easy either as all three of these teams are likely battling for only one playoff spot. So here at Chuck's Corner we will breakdown each schedule and see who has an easy or hard road to the playoffs and what games could be traps.
Green Bay Schedule
-at New Orleans
-Carolina
-Houston
- at Jacksonville
-at Chicago
-Detroit
Chicago Schedule
-at St. Louis
-at Minnesota
-Jacksonville
-New Orleans
-Green Bay
-at Houston
Minnesota Schedule
-at Jacksonville
-Chicago
-at Detroit
-at Arizona
-Atlanta
-NY Giants
What you have here is all three teams have to play Jacksonville- two on the road (Vikings and Packers) who arent as good as expected but they are still a tough team no matter especially on the road. The Bears still have to play the Vikings and Packers one more time which gives them an advantage on overall division games.
The Vikes/Pack get the luxury of playing the Lions one more time. The Vikings by far have the hardest road playing Atlanta (likely fighting for a playoff spot) and on the road in Arizona (lets all remember Nathan Poole). The Giants might be tough but they probably will have a playoff spot by then. Also lets remember Brad Childress is their coach.
Chicago is the wildcard here because they have to deal with a short week against New Orleans and as I said a tough Jaguar team. Also for the Bears dont overlook thier last game versus Houston.
Finally, I think the Packers have the easiest road as I see them losing two at most, but realistically one (NO, CAR, or JAX). I think they can sweep the Bears but in my opinion, that game will decide the division.
-Charlie.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Marquette Basketball Preview
Lets start off with this.... Its not the best but its the only thing I could find from YouTube of Ring Out Ahoya and ahh, welcome back to Marquette Basketball for the 2008-2009 season. It was a different off-season for Marquette as alot of players backed out of commitments as Tom "The Snake" Crean left for Indiana and now there is a new leader in Milwaukee by the name of Buzz Williams who seems as the right person for the job.
Let me breakdown how the year will run for College Basketball on the blog, once we get to December I will do Top 25 picks for the Saturday games and during the week any upsets that do occur I will definitely discuss them on the blog. Marquette is right up there with the Brewers for favorite teams so there is a possibility I will have an MU report after almost every Big East game and the two big non-conference ones (Wisconsin and Tennessee). I would like to introduce my guy Mach as my Big East corespondent; alot of stuff being written today were both our thoughts. Also I will be doing an overall College Basketball preview with the top 25 where we have the Games to Watch, Key Players and a breakdown of each team.
Games to Watch for MU: Wisconsin (12/06) @ Tennessee (12/16) @ Notre Dame (1/26) vs/@ Georgetown (1/31, 2/21) UConn (2/25) @ Louisville (3/1) @ Pittsburgh (3/4)
I think I have never seen a tougher down the road stretch for a team in College Basketball: GU, UConn, Louisville, Pittsburgh, and Syracuse, four out of those five teams are top 20 teams and the Orange could be right there too by that time. In my opinion, no conference will be tougher than the Big East this year.
Instead of key players for Marquette, I will be breakdown every player.
#1 Dominic James-Guard-5'11-SR- Mr. James is back for another year at MU which to most fans including me and Mach are very surprised that he is still here. We all thought he had big dreams of the NBA and now I think is more than ever ready to led his team. I expect big things out of him this year.
#2 Maurice Aker-Guard-5'8-JR- I thought that Aker was nice addition to the sqaud last year and will have more of a role this year as he learned more of the offense. I think this guy is a good version of a true point guard and will do some nice things off the bench.
#4 Patrick Hazel-Forward-6'7-SO- As me and Mach were talking online, I told him Hazel was my "Breakout Player of the Year" for MU. His Response: "AGREED, he is super long and relativity nimble." Trust me, he will be a great option off the bench all year and with the injuries with the big men right now, he will have a chance to shine early on.
#10 David Cubilian-Guard-6'0-JR- Another thing that was brought up was Cubi as we both feel he is a great six man and will provide needed three-point shooting. I always have loved the fiery passion that he brings to the court every game and I expect to continue as a vital part of the bench this year.
#12 Dwight Burke-Forward-6'8-SR- Now there are some who really dont like Burke and I am not one of them, granted I think he has some poor mental errors at times with fouls and such. But I do think he will be fine as their Center this season. He will be challenged all year long with the big men of the Big East, I can only hope he holds his own.
#21 Joesph Fulce-Forward-6'7-SO- A JUCO brought in from Houston who is out with a foot injury and there is a possibility he might redshirt this year as there have been setbacks with his foot according to Todd Rosiak of Journal Sentinel. He was a second team JUCO All-American as he average 19 and 13 so I am pretty excited to see what he can do and hope he doesnt redshirt.
#22 Jerel McNeal-Guard-6'3-SR- Mr. All-Around. I think McNeal has the best chance to be a solid NBA player for the next five years and I think he will have a huge year as he just keep getting better every year. I am curious to see if his permiter shooting is better than last year and I know he is up to the task of guarding the best perimeter players of the Big East.
#23 Wes Matthews-Guard-6'5-SR- Matthews is really overshadowed by McNeal and James and I think he provides more to the team sometimes than anyone else. You might not notice it but he always seems to get a big bucket when no one else is. I think Wes will have a big year and likely a 2nd team Big East all-conference player.
#32 Lazar Hayward-Forward-6'6-JR- My guy. This is easily my favorite player because he isnt afraid of the big men that he sees every night and he can hurt you from the perimeter or the paint. The big thing for him will be to stay out of foul trouble espically when he is playing the good teams because I feel when Hayward is out of the game for awhile, the flow seems more screwed up.
#33 Jimmy Butler-Guard/Forward-6'6-SO- Played with Fluce at the JUCO college where he averaged 19, 8 and shot 42.2 last year from the three-point line but the Warriors want to play him at the 4 to back up Hayward so it will be interesting if that continues all year with his deadly depth from the three-point line.
#42 Chris Otule-Center-6'10-FR- The lone freshman of the team and Mach heard rumors he was going to redshirt after he broke his left foot recently and is out a month. I hope he is not because he is the biggest player on the team. His senior year of high school averaged 14 9 and 6 blocks a game so he is obviously a defensive presence. I hope MU takes a long look at him before the redshirt comes out.
#45 Robert Forenzea-Guard-6'1-SO The walk-on wont probably see much time this season but hopefully when he does, he makes the most of it.
#55 Liam McMarrow-Center-7'0-SO He will be redshirted this year and is from Canada, thats all I really got.
Overall as I told Mach, I think Marquette will play with a chip on their shoulder all year long and nothing like we have seen before with this team. How disrespected to these seniors feel? I mean sure its a business (Its Indiana, lets remember, what a joke) but still, this guard combo is one of the most talented in the NCAA. As Mach put it, "From the comments they made, it seems like they were playing it off that they weren't too upset about Crean leaving like that, but you could also tell that they were hurt so i think that will factor into a lot of their passion during games to be honest." Couldnt agree more with that statement.
Lets go Warriors.
-Charlie.
Let me breakdown how the year will run for College Basketball on the blog, once we get to December I will do Top 25 picks for the Saturday games and during the week any upsets that do occur I will definitely discuss them on the blog. Marquette is right up there with the Brewers for favorite teams so there is a possibility I will have an MU report after almost every Big East game and the two big non-conference ones (Wisconsin and Tennessee). I would like to introduce my guy Mach as my Big East corespondent; alot of stuff being written today were both our thoughts. Also I will be doing an overall College Basketball preview with the top 25 where we have the Games to Watch, Key Players and a breakdown of each team.
Games to Watch for MU: Wisconsin (12/06) @ Tennessee (12/16) @ Notre Dame (1/26) vs/@ Georgetown (1/31, 2/21) UConn (2/25) @ Louisville (3/1) @ Pittsburgh (3/4)
I think I have never seen a tougher down the road stretch for a team in College Basketball: GU, UConn, Louisville, Pittsburgh, and Syracuse, four out of those five teams are top 20 teams and the Orange could be right there too by that time. In my opinion, no conference will be tougher than the Big East this year.
Instead of key players for Marquette, I will be breakdown every player.
#1 Dominic James-Guard-5'11-SR- Mr. James is back for another year at MU which to most fans including me and Mach are very surprised that he is still here. We all thought he had big dreams of the NBA and now I think is more than ever ready to led his team. I expect big things out of him this year.
#2 Maurice Aker-Guard-5'8-JR- I thought that Aker was nice addition to the sqaud last year and will have more of a role this year as he learned more of the offense. I think this guy is a good version of a true point guard and will do some nice things off the bench.
#4 Patrick Hazel-Forward-6'7-SO- As me and Mach were talking online, I told him Hazel was my "Breakout Player of the Year" for MU. His Response: "AGREED, he is super long and relativity nimble." Trust me, he will be a great option off the bench all year and with the injuries with the big men right now, he will have a chance to shine early on.
#10 David Cubilian-Guard-6'0-JR- Another thing that was brought up was Cubi as we both feel he is a great six man and will provide needed three-point shooting. I always have loved the fiery passion that he brings to the court every game and I expect to continue as a vital part of the bench this year.
#12 Dwight Burke-Forward-6'8-SR- Now there are some who really dont like Burke and I am not one of them, granted I think he has some poor mental errors at times with fouls and such. But I do think he will be fine as their Center this season. He will be challenged all year long with the big men of the Big East, I can only hope he holds his own.
#21 Joesph Fulce-Forward-6'7-SO- A JUCO brought in from Houston who is out with a foot injury and there is a possibility he might redshirt this year as there have been setbacks with his foot according to Todd Rosiak of Journal Sentinel. He was a second team JUCO All-American as he average 19 and 13 so I am pretty excited to see what he can do and hope he doesnt redshirt.
#22 Jerel McNeal-Guard-6'3-SR- Mr. All-Around. I think McNeal has the best chance to be a solid NBA player for the next five years and I think he will have a huge year as he just keep getting better every year. I am curious to see if his permiter shooting is better than last year and I know he is up to the task of guarding the best perimeter players of the Big East.
#23 Wes Matthews-Guard-6'5-SR- Matthews is really overshadowed by McNeal and James and I think he provides more to the team sometimes than anyone else. You might not notice it but he always seems to get a big bucket when no one else is. I think Wes will have a big year and likely a 2nd team Big East all-conference player.
#32 Lazar Hayward-Forward-6'6-JR- My guy. This is easily my favorite player because he isnt afraid of the big men that he sees every night and he can hurt you from the perimeter or the paint. The big thing for him will be to stay out of foul trouble espically when he is playing the good teams because I feel when Hayward is out of the game for awhile, the flow seems more screwed up.
#33 Jimmy Butler-Guard/Forward-6'6-SO- Played with Fluce at the JUCO college where he averaged 19, 8 and shot 42.2 last year from the three-point line but the Warriors want to play him at the 4 to back up Hayward so it will be interesting if that continues all year with his deadly depth from the three-point line.
#42 Chris Otule-Center-6'10-FR- The lone freshman of the team and Mach heard rumors he was going to redshirt after he broke his left foot recently and is out a month. I hope he is not because he is the biggest player on the team. His senior year of high school averaged 14 9 and 6 blocks a game so he is obviously a defensive presence. I hope MU takes a long look at him before the redshirt comes out.
#45 Robert Forenzea-Guard-6'1-SO The walk-on wont probably see much time this season but hopefully when he does, he makes the most of it.
#55 Liam McMarrow-Center-7'0-SO He will be redshirted this year and is from Canada, thats all I really got.
Overall as I told Mach, I think Marquette will play with a chip on their shoulder all year long and nothing like we have seen before with this team. How disrespected to these seniors feel? I mean sure its a business (Its Indiana, lets remember, what a joke) but still, this guard combo is one of the most talented in the NCAA. As Mach put it, "From the comments they made, it seems like they were playing it off that they weren't too upset about Crean leaving like that, but you could also tell that they were hurt so i think that will factor into a lot of their passion during games to be honest." Couldnt agree more with that statement.
Lets go Warriors.
-Charlie.
Top 25 Picks
Its not that exciting weekend in college football but you know those are the weekends where everyone starts getting knocked off just because we do not see it coming. Here are the picks.
1. Alabama-vs. Mississppi State- The Crimson Tide was able to overcome the missed FGs last weekend to get an Overtime win in Baton Rouge and also took advantage of bad quarterback play. They got the Bulldogs this weekend who beat Vandy earlier on the year but they arent good enough to keep it close in Tuscaloosa. BAMA 34-16
2. Texas Tech-BYE
3. Texas-at Kansas- Everyone is saying the Longhorns should be on Upset Alert and to be honest, I really dont see it. The Jayhawks defense is awful and no one seems to realize that. Texas will have control of this game throughout. TEXAS 49-31
4. Florida-vs. 25. South Carolina- Probably this best matchup this weekend in my opinion as the ole Ball Coach heads back to the Swamp where he stil remembered although Urban Meyer will prove their a new sheriff in town, I dont see the Gators becoming complacement with just the SEC East title and they will send a message tomorrow. UF 35-17
5. Oklahoma-BYE
6. USC-at. Stanford- Another thing that is heating up as their defense is healthy again and its damn scary. I am sure the defeat the Cardinal handed to them last year is still very fresh in their head and they will be seeking revenge on that dopey tree. USC 45-3
7. Utah-at San Diego State- Really? The Utes are this high in the BCS, god thats awful. Like I said, I have a little more respect for them because they have played Oregon State and Michigan but when they play the Sisters of the Poor like the Aztecs, you lose some too. UTAH 63-0
8. Penn State-vs. Indiana- Well one team I wouldnt want to be this weekend is the Hoosiers as they head into Happy Valley with an angry JoePa team. Its gunna get ugly. PSU 59-14
9. Boise State-at Idaho- Ah nothing says the state of Idaho like the Potato Rivalry, I dont know if this is what this matchup is called. The Vandals are awful and this one will not even be close. BOISE 45-0
10. Georgia-at Auburn- The South Deepest Rivalry is not what is usually is as the Tigers have had a disappointing season to say the least and if they could win this, it would probably take Tommy Tuberville off the hot seat but too much Knowshon for Auburn to win. UGA 31-13
11. Ohio State-at Illinois- Another team that will look for revenge after last year defeat which took away their undefeated season. I think the Buckeyes will be able to win this game but it will be a close Big 10 battle. OSU 24-20
12. Missouri-at Iowa State- Well, the Cyclones arent that good and this will be a pretty boring trip to Ames for the Tigers as they will demolish Iowa State by halftime. MIZZOU 52-10
13. Oklahoma State-at Colorado- This should be called the "Coaches Blow-up Match-up" as you have Mike "I'm a Man!" Gundy vs. Dan "Go Play Intermurals Brother!" Hawkins but in all seriousness, I think this will be one of the closest matchups of the weekend and my Upset Special. BUFFS 34-31
14. Ball State-played Miami OH on Tuesday and won to remained undefeated.
15. Michigan State-BYE
16. North Carolina-at Maryland- The ACC is about as confusing as Lil Wayne at the CMA, no one has been able to pull away from the pack and this is a huge matchup as the Heels head to Maryland. I will take UNC based off the Terps inconsitant play all year and it will show again this week, expect it to be close though. UNC 27-23
17. BYU-at Air Force- Pretty good Mountain West battle as the Falcons only defeat in the MWC is to the Utes and they should put up a good fight against the Cougars this weekend and could very likely win. I take the Mormons in a close one. BYU 35-31
18. TCU-BYE
19. Florida State-vs. Boston College- Times are finally good in Tallahassee and they have a big prime time matchup with a surprisng BC team who has looked very strong in the last couple weekends but I think the Seminole defense will be too tough for the Eagles. Expect a close, physical, defensive game. FSU 17-9
20. LSU-vs. Troy- The Tigers can prey on the weak after the tough defeat last weekend and hopefully they can get Andrew Hatch back because Jarrett Lee sure as hell isnt the answer. LSU 44-3
21. Pitt-BYE
22. Cincinnati-at Louisville- This is the battle of the Keg of Nails and I think the fans of the Cards will want to do some heavy drinking after this one because I think the Bearcats are catching fire at the right now and they will roll. CINCY 31-14
23. Tulsa-at Houston- Interesting matchup in the C-USA this weekend as the two top teams go up against each other and I will take the Cougars in this minor upset. HOU 24-13
24. Wake Forest- at NC State- How are the Demon Deacons in the top 25 of the BCS? I dont think they are that good although NC State sucks so they have nothing to worry about this weekend. WF 27-10
25. South Carolina-see 4. Florida
Others to watch...
-Northwestern at Michigan
-Notre Dame at Navy
-California at Oregon State
-Minnesota at Wisconsin
-Arizona at Oregon
-Charlie.
1. Alabama-vs. Mississppi State- The Crimson Tide was able to overcome the missed FGs last weekend to get an Overtime win in Baton Rouge and also took advantage of bad quarterback play. They got the Bulldogs this weekend who beat Vandy earlier on the year but they arent good enough to keep it close in Tuscaloosa. BAMA 34-16
2. Texas Tech-BYE
3. Texas-at Kansas- Everyone is saying the Longhorns should be on Upset Alert and to be honest, I really dont see it. The Jayhawks defense is awful and no one seems to realize that. Texas will have control of this game throughout. TEXAS 49-31
4. Florida-vs. 25. South Carolina- Probably this best matchup this weekend in my opinion as the ole Ball Coach heads back to the Swamp where he stil remembered although Urban Meyer will prove their a new sheriff in town, I dont see the Gators becoming complacement with just the SEC East title and they will send a message tomorrow. UF 35-17
5. Oklahoma-BYE
6. USC-at. Stanford- Another thing that is heating up as their defense is healthy again and its damn scary. I am sure the defeat the Cardinal handed to them last year is still very fresh in their head and they will be seeking revenge on that dopey tree. USC 45-3
7. Utah-at San Diego State- Really? The Utes are this high in the BCS, god thats awful. Like I said, I have a little more respect for them because they have played Oregon State and Michigan but when they play the Sisters of the Poor like the Aztecs, you lose some too. UTAH 63-0
8. Penn State-vs. Indiana- Well one team I wouldnt want to be this weekend is the Hoosiers as they head into Happy Valley with an angry JoePa team. Its gunna get ugly. PSU 59-14
9. Boise State-at Idaho- Ah nothing says the state of Idaho like the Potato Rivalry, I dont know if this is what this matchup is called. The Vandals are awful and this one will not even be close. BOISE 45-0
10. Georgia-at Auburn- The South Deepest Rivalry is not what is usually is as the Tigers have had a disappointing season to say the least and if they could win this, it would probably take Tommy Tuberville off the hot seat but too much Knowshon for Auburn to win. UGA 31-13
11. Ohio State-at Illinois- Another team that will look for revenge after last year defeat which took away their undefeated season. I think the Buckeyes will be able to win this game but it will be a close Big 10 battle. OSU 24-20
12. Missouri-at Iowa State- Well, the Cyclones arent that good and this will be a pretty boring trip to Ames for the Tigers as they will demolish Iowa State by halftime. MIZZOU 52-10
13. Oklahoma State-at Colorado- This should be called the "Coaches Blow-up Match-up" as you have Mike "I'm a Man!" Gundy vs. Dan "Go Play Intermurals Brother!" Hawkins but in all seriousness, I think this will be one of the closest matchups of the weekend and my Upset Special. BUFFS 34-31
14. Ball State-played Miami OH on Tuesday and won to remained undefeated.
15. Michigan State-BYE
16. North Carolina-at Maryland- The ACC is about as confusing as Lil Wayne at the CMA, no one has been able to pull away from the pack and this is a huge matchup as the Heels head to Maryland. I will take UNC based off the Terps inconsitant play all year and it will show again this week, expect it to be close though. UNC 27-23
17. BYU-at Air Force- Pretty good Mountain West battle as the Falcons only defeat in the MWC is to the Utes and they should put up a good fight against the Cougars this weekend and could very likely win. I take the Mormons in a close one. BYU 35-31
18. TCU-BYE
19. Florida State-vs. Boston College- Times are finally good in Tallahassee and they have a big prime time matchup with a surprisng BC team who has looked very strong in the last couple weekends but I think the Seminole defense will be too tough for the Eagles. Expect a close, physical, defensive game. FSU 17-9
20. LSU-vs. Troy- The Tigers can prey on the weak after the tough defeat last weekend and hopefully they can get Andrew Hatch back because Jarrett Lee sure as hell isnt the answer. LSU 44-3
21. Pitt-BYE
22. Cincinnati-at Louisville- This is the battle of the Keg of Nails and I think the fans of the Cards will want to do some heavy drinking after this one because I think the Bearcats are catching fire at the right now and they will roll. CINCY 31-14
23. Tulsa-at Houston- Interesting matchup in the C-USA this weekend as the two top teams go up against each other and I will take the Cougars in this minor upset. HOU 24-13
24. Wake Forest- at NC State- How are the Demon Deacons in the top 25 of the BCS? I dont think they are that good although NC State sucks so they have nothing to worry about this weekend. WF 27-10
25. South Carolina-see 4. Florida
Others to watch...
-Northwestern at Michigan
-Notre Dame at Navy
-California at Oregon State
-Minnesota at Wisconsin
-Arizona at Oregon
-Charlie.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
I Miss Brett Favre
I finally said it.
I havent said the statement above at all this year but it has finally hit me that I really do miss Brett Favre watching most of the game tonight as the Jets beat the Patriots 34-31 in overtime. Honestly, if I had to do the decision again I would still stick with Aaron Rodgers but I just miss watching Mr. Favre in the Green and Gold every Sunday because I think its what I am used to every week. As you would see in my NFL picks, I completely trashed the Jets saying they couldnt get it done tonight, havent played enough tough teams and they proved me wrong. Favre made big play after big play and did all the right things, no typical "Brett INT" this week as he found Jerricho Cotchery multiple times and hit Laveranues Coles for a big third down completion in the third quarter.
Despite giving up thirty-one points, I thought their defense is pretty solid. I think Kris Jenkins is a difference maker in the middle and making this team so much better. I told people early this week that I thought the Ty Law signing was sort of a "publicity stunt". Nothing of sorts as he dominated Randy Moss for most part of the game with his physical play which was something I didnt see coming.
Granted, I was one of Brett's harshist critics all summer and this fall; no matter what I still respect what the man can still do and tonight was a perfect example of it.
-Charlie.
I havent said the statement above at all this year but it has finally hit me that I really do miss Brett Favre watching most of the game tonight as the Jets beat the Patriots 34-31 in overtime. Honestly, if I had to do the decision again I would still stick with Aaron Rodgers but I just miss watching Mr. Favre in the Green and Gold every Sunday because I think its what I am used to every week. As you would see in my NFL picks, I completely trashed the Jets saying they couldnt get it done tonight, havent played enough tough teams and they proved me wrong. Favre made big play after big play and did all the right things, no typical "Brett INT" this week as he found Jerricho Cotchery multiple times and hit Laveranues Coles for a big third down completion in the third quarter.
Despite giving up thirty-one points, I thought their defense is pretty solid. I think Kris Jenkins is a difference maker in the middle and making this team so much better. I told people early this week that I thought the Ty Law signing was sort of a "publicity stunt". Nothing of sorts as he dominated Randy Moss for most part of the game with his physical play which was something I didnt see coming.
Granted, I was one of Brett's harshist critics all summer and this fall; no matter what I still respect what the man can still do and tonight was a perfect example of it.
-Charlie.
MLB Hot Stove Heatin' Up
As free agency has begun (only 10 minutes ago) and I am sure I will have a couple articles tomorrow on things that have went down if they are important enough or about the Brewers (CC? God I hope so.) Anyways a couple deals went down today....
Nick Swisher of the White Sox was traded to the Yankees for Wilson Betemit and a couple minor league pitchers. In my opinion, this was a pretty good trade for the Yanks as they got a guy they can put in the infield and outfield and despite his poor numbers last year, I think he can still be a good six or seven hitter in the Yanks lineup depending on whose on the team next year. In addition, this probably meant the Mike Cameron deals that were trying to happened fell through or the Crew asked for too much. This is a much better deal for the Yankees because they didnt give away Melky Cabrera or Ian Kennedy (two guys the Crew wanted) and I really dont know what the Sox were thinking in this one.
The other deal involved the other team in the Windy City as the Cubs trade for Kevin Gregg of the Marlins for a young minor leaguer. They also said doing this will mean that Kerry Wood will not be brought back in an attempt to sign Ryan Dempster. To me this is a head-scratcher because I feel that Wood is more valuable to the team than Dempster because first off, Dempster had one good year in his contract year nonetheless and closers are usually so hit/miss when they are brought in. Granted I think Carlos Marmol will be better than last year which is scary but I would not put all my chips on Dempster.
Happy Free Agency
-Charlie.
Nick Swisher of the White Sox was traded to the Yankees for Wilson Betemit and a couple minor league pitchers. In my opinion, this was a pretty good trade for the Yanks as they got a guy they can put in the infield and outfield and despite his poor numbers last year, I think he can still be a good six or seven hitter in the Yanks lineup depending on whose on the team next year. In addition, this probably meant the Mike Cameron deals that were trying to happened fell through or the Crew asked for too much. This is a much better deal for the Yankees because they didnt give away Melky Cabrera or Ian Kennedy (two guys the Crew wanted) and I really dont know what the Sox were thinking in this one.
The other deal involved the other team in the Windy City as the Cubs trade for Kevin Gregg of the Marlins for a young minor leaguer. They also said doing this will mean that Kerry Wood will not be brought back in an attempt to sign Ryan Dempster. To me this is a head-scratcher because I feel that Wood is more valuable to the team than Dempster because first off, Dempster had one good year in his contract year nonetheless and closers are usually so hit/miss when they are brought in. Granted I think Carlos Marmol will be better than last year which is scary but I would not put all my chips on Dempster.
Happy Free Agency
-Charlie.
NFL Picks Week 11
New York Jets (6-3) at New England (6-3)- One of the better NFL Network games in the past couple years in this classic rivalry where the Pats have owned the Jets in the recent future. I think this trend will continue tonight as you get Brett Favre coming on four days rest hasnt been good thing see Dallas last year. NE 28-17
Denver (5-4) at Atlanta (6-3)- A big matchup this weekend between the Broncos and the Falcons as Bill Simmons of ESPN.com called Matt Ryan "his first-half MVP." Which is surprising yet I think he is definitely in my top three. I am going to go with the Falcons based off the way the pass defense played against New Orleans and West-to-East hasnt been kind this year. ATL 31-24
Philadelphia (5-4) at Cincinnati (1-8)- The Eagles get easy pickings as they play the Sisters of the Poor this weekend and the Eagles like their nickname take advantage of their weak prey. PHI 41-6
Chicago (5-4) at Green Bay (4-5)- I was going to have a big article on why the Packers are 4-5 but I feel I will wait if it gets any uglier. Anyways, Lovie Smith has owned the Packers since he has arrived in Chicago (7-1) but there is a new sheriff in town in Aaron Rodgers so that will change Sunday. Also look for Ryan Grant to get the ball, alot. GB 24-17
Houston (3-6) at Indianapolis (5-4)- I took the Colts/Texans both in upsets last weekend and the Texans got their asses kicked. Now they have to play a Colt team that is picking up steam, granted the Texans have been a thorn in the Colts side the last couple of years, no such luck this week. IND 31-3
New Orleans (4-5) at Kansas City (1-8)- Now the Chiefs lost another close game so you would hope that Sean Payton is telling his bunch not to get too confident heading into to Arrowhead. The Chiefs pass defense isnt that bad which is all the Saints have for an offense and I got a gut feeling the Chiefs pull one out. KC 20-17
Oakland (2-7) at Miami (5-4)- See the nice thing about being the worst team in football last year and now having a soild year this year is you get a pretty easy schedule as the second worst team in football in my opinion where they release guys who they pay twice the amount for. The Phins will roll in this one. MIA 34-7
Baltimore (6-3) at New York Giants (8-1)- The Ravens may be the worst 6-3 team I have seen this year still not impressed, I think I have picked them to lost against Oakland and Houston. The Giants on the other hand look like the best team in the NFC by leaps and bounds will get some revenge for the Super Bowl loss six years ago. NYG 35-21
Minnesota (5-4) at Tampa Bay (6-3)- In a game both teams need pretty bad, you get an old NFC Central clash. Adrian Peterson looked like a man possessed last weekend and if he keeps that up all year, he could very well carry the Vikes to a playoff berth but you know Brad Childress will screw it up. The Vikings never played well down in Tampa and I see the trend continuing this weekend as the Bucs have had two weeks to prepare. TB 23-14
Detroit (0-9) at Carolina (7-2)- Nothing finer than being a Carolina fan. Oakland, now Detroit, granted they did lay an egg against the Raiders but nothing like that will happen at home. CAR 27-9
St. Louis (2-7) at San Francisco (2-7)- Well this game is about as boring as watching paint dry although its Mike Martz's old ball club so I will look for him to put it on his old club. SF 27-14
Arizona (6-3) at Seattle (2-7)- God I would be 6-3 if my team was in the NFC West, but the Cards have looked good in most games they played and Kurt Warner is having the type of season Favre had last year. They will dominate again this week. ARI 35-10
San Diego (4-5) at Pittsburgh (6-3)- WHY MUST WE WATCH ANOTHER STEELER GAME! Anytime the Steelers are on prime time, I am refusing to pick them. Despite my theory on going west-to east it doesnt matter as I think Big Ben is hurt more than we think. SD 17-13
Tennessee (9-0) at Jacksonville (4-5)- The Titans are still unbeaten and this game could be season-changer for the Jags if they can win although I think you will see the Titans remain unbeaten as the Jags dont have enough to keep up with them in four quarters. TEN 24-14
Cleveland (3-6) at Buffalo (5-4)- Both teams are heading down the toilet quick, as the Browns got much hype in the off-season and they havent lived up to whatsoever. The Bills proved why they arent worth the hype either as they lost three straight against the AFC East, good news this isnt against the AFC East. BUF 21-14
-Charlie.
Denver (5-4) at Atlanta (6-3)- A big matchup this weekend between the Broncos and the Falcons as Bill Simmons of ESPN.com called Matt Ryan "his first-half MVP." Which is surprising yet I think he is definitely in my top three. I am going to go with the Falcons based off the way the pass defense played against New Orleans and West-to-East hasnt been kind this year. ATL 31-24
Philadelphia (5-4) at Cincinnati (1-8)- The Eagles get easy pickings as they play the Sisters of the Poor this weekend and the Eagles like their nickname take advantage of their weak prey. PHI 41-6
Chicago (5-4) at Green Bay (4-5)- I was going to have a big article on why the Packers are 4-5 but I feel I will wait if it gets any uglier. Anyways, Lovie Smith has owned the Packers since he has arrived in Chicago (7-1) but there is a new sheriff in town in Aaron Rodgers so that will change Sunday. Also look for Ryan Grant to get the ball, alot. GB 24-17
Houston (3-6) at Indianapolis (5-4)- I took the Colts/Texans both in upsets last weekend and the Texans got their asses kicked. Now they have to play a Colt team that is picking up steam, granted the Texans have been a thorn in the Colts side the last couple of years, no such luck this week. IND 31-3
New Orleans (4-5) at Kansas City (1-8)- Now the Chiefs lost another close game so you would hope that Sean Payton is telling his bunch not to get too confident heading into to Arrowhead. The Chiefs pass defense isnt that bad which is all the Saints have for an offense and I got a gut feeling the Chiefs pull one out. KC 20-17
Oakland (2-7) at Miami (5-4)- See the nice thing about being the worst team in football last year and now having a soild year this year is you get a pretty easy schedule as the second worst team in football in my opinion where they release guys who they pay twice the amount for. The Phins will roll in this one. MIA 34-7
Baltimore (6-3) at New York Giants (8-1)- The Ravens may be the worst 6-3 team I have seen this year still not impressed, I think I have picked them to lost against Oakland and Houston. The Giants on the other hand look like the best team in the NFC by leaps and bounds will get some revenge for the Super Bowl loss six years ago. NYG 35-21
Minnesota (5-4) at Tampa Bay (6-3)- In a game both teams need pretty bad, you get an old NFC Central clash. Adrian Peterson looked like a man possessed last weekend and if he keeps that up all year, he could very well carry the Vikes to a playoff berth but you know Brad Childress will screw it up. The Vikings never played well down in Tampa and I see the trend continuing this weekend as the Bucs have had two weeks to prepare. TB 23-14
Detroit (0-9) at Carolina (7-2)- Nothing finer than being a Carolina fan. Oakland, now Detroit, granted they did lay an egg against the Raiders but nothing like that will happen at home. CAR 27-9
St. Louis (2-7) at San Francisco (2-7)- Well this game is about as boring as watching paint dry although its Mike Martz's old ball club so I will look for him to put it on his old club. SF 27-14
Arizona (6-3) at Seattle (2-7)- God I would be 6-3 if my team was in the NFC West, but the Cards have looked good in most games they played and Kurt Warner is having the type of season Favre had last year. They will dominate again this week. ARI 35-10
San Diego (4-5) at Pittsburgh (6-3)- WHY MUST WE WATCH ANOTHER STEELER GAME! Anytime the Steelers are on prime time, I am refusing to pick them. Despite my theory on going west-to east it doesnt matter as I think Big Ben is hurt more than we think. SD 17-13
Tennessee (9-0) at Jacksonville (4-5)- The Titans are still unbeaten and this game could be season-changer for the Jags if they can win although I think you will see the Titans remain unbeaten as the Jags dont have enough to keep up with them in four quarters. TEN 24-14
Cleveland (3-6) at Buffalo (5-4)- Both teams are heading down the toilet quick, as the Browns got much hype in the off-season and they havent lived up to whatsoever. The Bills proved why they arent worth the hype either as they lost three straight against the AFC East, good news this isnt against the AFC East. BUF 21-14
-Charlie.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Lincecum Deserved the Cy Young
In case you missed it, Tim Lincecum won the NL Cy Young award and my guy CC Sabathia finished 5th or 6th with only nine votes. At first, I was like wow CC got completely jobbed and no one really showed him respect. Also major props to Mitch for calling this one a couple weeks ago and provided some good arguements behind it as well.
Then the more I thought about it, Lincecum did things with a 4th place team that would seem pretty much impossible. He didnt care who he was facing and how bad his run support was, Lincecum just got it done every time he was out there.
As Robert Flores of ESPN said, "He looks like he should being playing Halo." Which is absolutely true haha he looks like he is 15 but trust me, he doesnt pitch that way. Also he is only 5'10 160, is he the next Pedro Martinez? No doubt about it after this Cy Young win is the evidence and the Giants should hold on to him as long as possible.
There is a reason he is nicknamed "The Franchise"
-Charlie.
Then the more I thought about it, Lincecum did things with a 4th place team that would seem pretty much impossible. He didnt care who he was facing and how bad his run support was, Lincecum just got it done every time he was out there.
As Robert Flores of ESPN said, "He looks like he should being playing Halo." Which is absolutely true haha he looks like he is 15 but trust me, he doesnt pitch that way. Also he is only 5'10 160, is he the next Pedro Martinez? No doubt about it after this Cy Young win is the evidence and the Giants should hold on to him as long as possible.
There is a reason he is nicknamed "The Franchise"
-Charlie.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
So Long Solomon
A lot of baseball stories came out today and one of them was the retirement of Solomon Torres which to me was very sad as he was a complete class act and a vetern leader of the Brewers last year but the more I thought about it, it should have been expected by all of us. Torres thought about retiring before this season and then he had one of his best seasons of his career so I see no reason why he wouldnt want to retire on top. But I just want to thank him for being a vital part of the Brewers Wild Card run this year.
I think that it is time for the Brewers to go with the Big Red Nasty, Ryan Bailey's older brother.... Seth McClung. I am a huge fan of Big Red being the closer for next year's team because I believe he has the killer instinct to be a closer plus he has a "I dont give a shit who you are" attitude which is big when you are a closer.
What about Trevor Hoffman you ask? Well if you have been following the off-season, the Padres have decided to get rid of Hoffman because he would not take a pay-cut which to me is crazy for many reasons but would the Brewers want to go down this road again? I dont foresee them doing it but you never know with Doug Melvin.
-Charlie.
I think that it is time for the Brewers to go with the Big Red Nasty, Ryan Bailey's older brother.... Seth McClung. I am a huge fan of Big Red being the closer for next year's team because I believe he has the killer instinct to be a closer plus he has a "I dont give a shit who you are" attitude which is big when you are a closer.
What about Trevor Hoffman you ask? Well if you have been following the off-season, the Padres have decided to get rid of Hoffman because he would not take a pay-cut which to me is crazy for many reasons but would the Brewers want to go down this road again? I dont foresee them doing it but you never know with Doug Melvin.
-Charlie.
Charlie Weis on the Hotseat?
Hard to believe but indeed that's a fact.
Despite the one of the biggest contracts in all of college sports, Charlie Weis can find himself on the hotseat after his Notre Dame team got embarrassed by Boston College 17-0, which lead to Weis being 1-15 in his last sixteen against teams that are above .500. That doesnt sit well with the Irish faithful who are expecting results.
Granted I think they have all the right to be upset at Weis but what they have to realize is they have a crop of talent coming through the ranks right now. Jimmy Clausen, Golden Tate, Michael Floyd are three superstars of the college game in the next couple years and they have some talented players all over the field who are just young. They will figure out how to win and I think Weis is the right coach to do it.
Also another thing even how rich the Irish are, I dont think they can afford the buyout that Weis will get. I mean these numbers will be about as large as Weis himself and I think the Golden Domers will have to wait at least two years to fire Weis but you never know with Notre Dame, this was the same time they got inpatient with Bob Davie, and Tyrone Willingham.
-Charlie.
Despite the one of the biggest contracts in all of college sports, Charlie Weis can find himself on the hotseat after his Notre Dame team got embarrassed by Boston College 17-0, which lead to Weis being 1-15 in his last sixteen against teams that are above .500. That doesnt sit well with the Irish faithful who are expecting results.
Granted I think they have all the right to be upset at Weis but what they have to realize is they have a crop of talent coming through the ranks right now. Jimmy Clausen, Golden Tate, Michael Floyd are three superstars of the college game in the next couple years and they have some talented players all over the field who are just young. They will figure out how to win and I think Weis is the right coach to do it.
Also another thing even how rich the Irish are, I dont think they can afford the buyout that Weis will get. I mean these numbers will be about as large as Weis himself and I think the Golden Domers will have to wait at least two years to fire Weis but you never know with Notre Dame, this was the same time they got inpatient with Bob Davie, and Tyrone Willingham.
-Charlie.
A Holiday in the Bay
God that was a creative title.
If you hadnt heard yet, Matt Holiday was traded to the Athletics for Carlos Gonzalez, Greg Smith, Huston Street. Which in my opinion is a good deal for both teams despite the feeling of betrayal by Rockies fans. As they felt this team was on the way up with their "Generation R" with Holiday, Tulowitzki, Atkins, and others who led their team to the World Series last season.
Its obvious that the Rockies felt they couldn't resign Holiday next season so they got a good offer for him from the A's and they ran with it which I cannot blame them. They were able to get a pretty good closer in Street to replace Brian Fuetues which in my opinion is a big upgrade. Also Gonzalez has some major promise in the outfield and I think he will be a key player for the Rockies all year.
As for the A's, there is no reason to believe that they will be resigning Holiday at the end of the year or for that matter so the supposed "genius" Billy Beane will wheel/deal Holiday for big time prospects at the deadline to give a team the extra push. I would be shocked if a rebuilding team decided to give the big bucks to Holiday. Just please stay away from the Cardinals, I almost fell out of my chair when they said the Rockies were "very close" to trading Holiday for Ryan Ludwick and their top prospect. I dont even want to think about how to pitch Albert Pujols/Matt Holiday back-to-back.
-Charlie.
If you hadnt heard yet, Matt Holiday was traded to the Athletics for Carlos Gonzalez, Greg Smith, Huston Street. Which in my opinion is a good deal for both teams despite the feeling of betrayal by Rockies fans. As they felt this team was on the way up with their "Generation R" with Holiday, Tulowitzki, Atkins, and others who led their team to the World Series last season.
Its obvious that the Rockies felt they couldn't resign Holiday next season so they got a good offer for him from the A's and they ran with it which I cannot blame them. They were able to get a pretty good closer in Street to replace Brian Fuetues which in my opinion is a big upgrade. Also Gonzalez has some major promise in the outfield and I think he will be a key player for the Rockies all year.
As for the A's, there is no reason to believe that they will be resigning Holiday at the end of the year or for that matter so the supposed "genius" Billy Beane will wheel/deal Holiday for big time prospects at the deadline to give a team the extra push. I would be shocked if a rebuilding team decided to give the big bucks to Holiday. Just please stay away from the Cardinals, I almost fell out of my chair when they said the Rockies were "very close" to trading Holiday for Ryan Ludwick and their top prospect. I dont even want to think about how to pitch Albert Pujols/Matt Holiday back-to-back.
-Charlie.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
A Guy Giving Love to the Big 10
Everyone in the media rips the Big 10 no matter who you talk they absolute hate watching the Big 10 and dont want to see them near the BCS championship after the last two years of Ohio State getting their asses kicked by the SEC. Granted, it might not be the best conference but I still think its some of the most enjoyable football to watch.
If you arent from the Midwest, you might think I am crazy and a lot of this has to do with my dad who still thinks nothing better than watching Big 10 football which usually I agree with. Because in my opinion, you cannot get better than watching two teams who usually hate each other just hitting them in the mouth on every play.
Granted, Texas-Texas Tech was an amazing game but Iowa-Penn State was right up there with it because for me it was a Big 10 game and having friends at the game who called me going nuts about the victory over the number three team in the nation was real special for me.
Despite both of their blowout losses last weekend, how about Minnesota and Northwestern? No one saw them having a bowl-eligible season in the Big 10 this year and they get no love from the media because its the Big 10. If this was a team like Mississippi State or for example Kentucky last year, the media hangs on those teams every move.
You might ask Chuck why do you hate on Big 10 basketball? Well its very simple, I just enjoy my basketball differently than my football. I never grew up watching the Badgers, i was born on Marquette and North Carolina so those are polar opposites than Big 10 basketball.
But thats another story for another time.
-Charlie.
If you arent from the Midwest, you might think I am crazy and a lot of this has to do with my dad who still thinks nothing better than watching Big 10 football which usually I agree with. Because in my opinion, you cannot get better than watching two teams who usually hate each other just hitting them in the mouth on every play.
Granted, Texas-Texas Tech was an amazing game but Iowa-Penn State was right up there with it because for me it was a Big 10 game and having friends at the game who called me going nuts about the victory over the number three team in the nation was real special for me.
Despite both of their blowout losses last weekend, how about Minnesota and Northwestern? No one saw them having a bowl-eligible season in the Big 10 this year and they get no love from the media because its the Big 10. If this was a team like Mississippi State or for example Kentucky last year, the media hangs on those teams every move.
You might ask Chuck why do you hate on Big 10 basketball? Well its very simple, I just enjoy my basketball differently than my football. I never grew up watching the Badgers, i was born on Marquette and North Carolina so those are polar opposites than Big 10 basketball.
But thats another story for another time.
-Charlie.
Best Coaching in Baseball... For Now
A news story that has sort of flown under the radar in the last couple of days is that Willie Randolph accepted a job as the Brewers bench coach if he doesnt get offered a manager job.
So now the Brewers have the three guys they wanted all along; Sveum, Randolph, and Macha giving them one of the best coaching staffs in all of baseball. Also Bill Castro deserved to be the pitching coach after his many years with the Brewers dating back to the days of the American League and the old logo.
Now the Seattle Mariners could be the only team with interfering wtih Randolph staying in Milwaukee as he is considered one of the favorites for the job out there. I really hope that Randolph stays in Milwaukee because I think he would be good influence on the young African-American ballplayers we have and there are some guys who just make better sidekicks then head coaches see Ray Rhodes, Cam Cameron to name a few.
I also am not concerned with three guys who all probably think they could manage this year because I think all of these men will learn from each other on how to make themselves better. But no matter what, coaching doesnt mean shit if the players on the field arent hitting/pitching.
-Charlie.
So now the Brewers have the three guys they wanted all along; Sveum, Randolph, and Macha giving them one of the best coaching staffs in all of baseball. Also Bill Castro deserved to be the pitching coach after his many years with the Brewers dating back to the days of the American League and the old logo.
Now the Seattle Mariners could be the only team with interfering wtih Randolph staying in Milwaukee as he is considered one of the favorites for the job out there. I really hope that Randolph stays in Milwaukee because I think he would be good influence on the young African-American ballplayers we have and there are some guys who just make better sidekicks then head coaches see Ray Rhodes, Cam Cameron to name a few.
I also am not concerned with three guys who all probably think they could manage this year because I think all of these men will learn from each other on how to make themselves better. But no matter what, coaching doesnt mean shit if the players on the field arent hitting/pitching.
-Charlie.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
NFL Picks Week 10
Now that there are Thursday games thanks to the NFL Network, I have to make my picks a couple days in advance. Like always I will try to keep both NFL and NCAA on the front page until the weekend is over.
Denver (4-4) at Cleveland (3-5)- The first NFL Network game without Bryant Gumbel! Just fantastic news. I will probably watch some of this one because I am Brady Quinn fan and hope he does well although this game is a do/die for the Browns and I think thats too much pressure for an inexperienced QB to handle. DEN 28-24
New Orleans (4-4) at Atlanta (5-3)- One of the better matchups of the weekend and I think this game will come down to the complete wire as both teams are very equal as the Falcons are proving they are more legit every week. For Sepi, I will take the Falcons. ATL 24-21
Tennessee (8-0) at Chicago (5-3)- I am sure Bears' fans are ecstatic to have Rex Grossman back in the driver's seat. Granted Kyle Orton has said he might play on Sunday but I really think he is just keeping up to hopes of Bears' fans all over. Sexy Rex proves why he's been riding the pine all year. TEN 24-10
Jacksonville (3-5) at Detroit (0-8)- File the Jags as the most disappointing team of 08 so far as they lost to the winless Bengals last weekend and get another cupcake this week. Not to mention, Daunte Culpepper is once again a starting QB (I can only hope he does the roll again) They will not lose this one and if they do, Jack Del Rio is on the definite hot seat. JAX 27-10.
Seattle (2-6) at Miami (4-4)- I cant believe the Phins have won four games and seeing as any team that comes East plays like shit. I see the Dolphins getting over .500, happy times in Miami. MIA 31-20
Green Bay (4-4) at Minnesota (4-4)- I am not one to usually complain about power rankings but ESPN has the Pack 14th! Are you joking me? They just took the top team to overtime, cmon now at least throw them in the 8-12 range. I think they have some confidence and are ready to deliver the sweep to the Vikings. GB 31-17
Buffalo (5-3) at New England (5-3)- This is a big game to prove if the Bills are a complete fraud or do they have some staying power. It pains me to say this but I think Buffalo will suffer their third straight defeat to an AFC East opponent. NE 27-20
St. Louis (2-6) at New York Jets (5-3)- Does Brett Favre have an easier schedule? Jeeze, gets another cupcake this weekend as the Jets should roll after I foolishly put an ounce of faith in the Rams. NYJ 34-14
Baltimore (5-3) at Houston (3-5)- Texans played pretty solid last week against the Vikes and I think the Ravens record doesnt show how easy their schedule has been. I think they could likely win but I got the Texans in an upset. HOU 20-17
Carolina (6-2) at Oakland (2-6)- See below why the Raiders might not win a game for the rest of the year. The Panthers will continue to build on their good record. CAR 31-3
Indianapolis (4-4) at Pittsburgh (7-2)- Do we really have to watch these teams again in primetime? I dont mind the Colts but the Steelers are on every frickin' weekend, I cant take it anymore. For that reason, I will take the Colts in an upset as I think the motivation will pull them through. IND 20-17
Kansas City (1-7) at San Diego (3-5)- The Chargers better not overlook the Chiefs this weekend because I really think the Chiefs are better than their record shows. Although it could be a just day for San Diego fantasy owners. SD 35-17
New York Giants (7-1) at Philadelphia (5-3)- An always bitter NFC East rivalry and I think this will be down to the wire. The Eagles need a big performance out of their defense but I really think their O-line isnt up to par to keep up with the Giants d-line. NYG 24-14
San Francisco (2-6) at Arizona (5-3)- I wonder if Mike Singletary will show his ass again this weekend? This game will be a long boring game for Monday Nighter as the Cards should roll. ARI 35-16
Denver (4-4) at Cleveland (3-5)- The first NFL Network game without Bryant Gumbel! Just fantastic news. I will probably watch some of this one because I am Brady Quinn fan and hope he does well although this game is a do/die for the Browns and I think thats too much pressure for an inexperienced QB to handle. DEN 28-24
New Orleans (4-4) at Atlanta (5-3)- One of the better matchups of the weekend and I think this game will come down to the complete wire as both teams are very equal as the Falcons are proving they are more legit every week. For Sepi, I will take the Falcons. ATL 24-21
Tennessee (8-0) at Chicago (5-3)- I am sure Bears' fans are ecstatic to have Rex Grossman back in the driver's seat. Granted Kyle Orton has said he might play on Sunday but I really think he is just keeping up to hopes of Bears' fans all over. Sexy Rex proves why he's been riding the pine all year. TEN 24-10
Jacksonville (3-5) at Detroit (0-8)- File the Jags as the most disappointing team of 08 so far as they lost to the winless Bengals last weekend and get another cupcake this week. Not to mention, Daunte Culpepper is once again a starting QB (I can only hope he does the roll again) They will not lose this one and if they do, Jack Del Rio is on the definite hot seat. JAX 27-10.
Seattle (2-6) at Miami (4-4)- I cant believe the Phins have won four games and seeing as any team that comes East plays like shit. I see the Dolphins getting over .500, happy times in Miami. MIA 31-20
Green Bay (4-4) at Minnesota (4-4)- I am not one to usually complain about power rankings but ESPN has the Pack 14th! Are you joking me? They just took the top team to overtime, cmon now at least throw them in the 8-12 range. I think they have some confidence and are ready to deliver the sweep to the Vikings. GB 31-17
Buffalo (5-3) at New England (5-3)- This is a big game to prove if the Bills are a complete fraud or do they have some staying power. It pains me to say this but I think Buffalo will suffer their third straight defeat to an AFC East opponent. NE 27-20
St. Louis (2-6) at New York Jets (5-3)- Does Brett Favre have an easier schedule? Jeeze, gets another cupcake this weekend as the Jets should roll after I foolishly put an ounce of faith in the Rams. NYJ 34-14
Baltimore (5-3) at Houston (3-5)- Texans played pretty solid last week against the Vikes and I think the Ravens record doesnt show how easy their schedule has been. I think they could likely win but I got the Texans in an upset. HOU 20-17
Carolina (6-2) at Oakland (2-6)- See below why the Raiders might not win a game for the rest of the year. The Panthers will continue to build on their good record. CAR 31-3
Indianapolis (4-4) at Pittsburgh (7-2)- Do we really have to watch these teams again in primetime? I dont mind the Colts but the Steelers are on every frickin' weekend, I cant take it anymore. For that reason, I will take the Colts in an upset as I think the motivation will pull them through. IND 20-17
Kansas City (1-7) at San Diego (3-5)- The Chargers better not overlook the Chiefs this weekend because I really think the Chiefs are better than their record shows. Although it could be a just day for San Diego fantasy owners. SD 35-17
New York Giants (7-1) at Philadelphia (5-3)- An always bitter NFC East rivalry and I think this will be down to the wire. The Eagles need a big performance out of their defense but I really think their O-line isnt up to par to keep up with the Giants d-line. NYG 24-14
San Francisco (2-6) at Arizona (5-3)- I wonder if Mike Singletary will show his ass again this weekend? This game will be a long boring game for Monday Nighter as the Cards should roll. ARI 35-16
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