I am counting down to Monday. Most people aren't looking forward to Monday but I know anyone who has a pulse in the Wisconsin-Minnesota area will be ready for the night's game.
The Green Bay Packers match up with the Minnesota Vikings and Brett Favre. This has been the one date that people have been waiting for since Brett decided to play for the purple and gold. What really does make me sick is the fact that people switched from Packers to Viking fans because they have the biggest man-crush in the world for Favre. Once Favre is retired, none of you if you are reading can join the Packer bandwagon again. That breaks so many rules in sports for creating against the Packers that you are not allowed back.
If the Packers lose on Monday, I will be depressed that the Packers lost but here's the thing. I will be sick of ESPN by thirty minutes of waking up because they will be banging the Favre shit over our heads and people will be just saying "I told you so." Here's thing you Favre fanatics which might be compared to the Mansion cult minus the whole killing aspect: It's week four! Favre will not be the same quarterback in five to seven weeks from now and that's when the Vikings begin to crumble.
No matter what happens, it should be a fun one.
-Charlie.
The New Logo
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Playoffs to 0-3
There are two 0-3 teams that I really feel that could probably be better than their record shows right now. They both involve great running backs and pretty staunch defenses. Those teams were both in the playoffs last year and maybe could do the unthinkable to come back.
The first team is the Carolina Panthers who have the noodle-arm quarterback known as Jake Delhomme but they do have an awesome 1-2 running back punch in DeAngelo Williams/Jonathan Stewart plus Steve Smith therefore its really hard to figure out how they haven't won a game. Also, the Panthers now have Jeff Garcia availiable as he was released by the Philadelphia Eagles on Tuesday. They should sign him and signaled the end for Delhomme. Now I don't know if they can make the playoffs with the Atlanta Falcons/New Orleans Saints in the NFC South division yet it might save John Fox job.
The second team is the Tennessee Titans who have caught some bad breaks in the first three weeks but once again, they have a stellar running back combo with Chris Johnson and LenDale "No More Patron" White. Also the problem is their quarterback but include their secondary in that mix. They couldn't stop Big Ben, Matt Schaub, and Matt Sanchez so far who knows if they will figure that out this season. In addition, its time for Vince Young again. It has been a year since the whole Young drama and Kerry Collins won last year because of the super defense they had. Collins cannot do it without the defense, they should insert Young. Also they probably will not make the playoffs with the Indianapolis Colts and their tough schedule.
-Charlie.
The first team is the Carolina Panthers who have the noodle-arm quarterback known as Jake Delhomme but they do have an awesome 1-2 running back punch in DeAngelo Williams/Jonathan Stewart plus Steve Smith therefore its really hard to figure out how they haven't won a game. Also, the Panthers now have Jeff Garcia availiable as he was released by the Philadelphia Eagles on Tuesday. They should sign him and signaled the end for Delhomme. Now I don't know if they can make the playoffs with the Atlanta Falcons/New Orleans Saints in the NFC South division yet it might save John Fox job.
The second team is the Tennessee Titans who have caught some bad breaks in the first three weeks but once again, they have a stellar running back combo with Chris Johnson and LenDale "No More Patron" White. Also the problem is their quarterback but include their secondary in that mix. They couldn't stop Big Ben, Matt Schaub, and Matt Sanchez so far who knows if they will figure that out this season. In addition, its time for Vince Young again. It has been a year since the whole Young drama and Kerry Collins won last year because of the super defense they had. Collins cannot do it without the defense, they should insert Young. Also they probably will not make the playoffs with the Indianapolis Colts and their tough schedule.
-Charlie.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Rankings... Should They Matter in September?
We talked about the collapse of Ole Miss a couple days ago and how the top 5 has changed more times than Pamela Anderson's bust size in the past couple of weeks. As I was getting ready for school, Sportscenter anchor Josh Elliot and Robert Smith were having a debate on whether teams should be ranked before the month of September.
I thought about this and I really like seeing preseason rankings because it puts everything up for discussion plus let fans debate whose team is the best. It also builds the hype around things going on in College Football but its not really rewarding the best teams out there. It is just giving rankings to teams the "experts" believe are going to best teams in college football. I think the rankings are something you need for the extreme fans where they do not know pro football just college. Places like Auburn, Baton Rogue, Eugene, Austin, and other places would be up in arms if they didn't know where their team stood at the beginning of the year.
My counter-argument would be the scores of all to the top 10 teams going down in the first four weeks of the year. South Carolina, Iowa and Oregon are both good teams with the jury still out about Washington but if we waited until this week, we could of really decided who belongs in the top 25. I believe the Ducks would be in there despite their lost to Boise St.
My personal rankings of the top 10 going off just results...
1. Florida
2. Alabama
3. Texas
4. LSU
5. Virgina Tech
6. USC
7. Ohio State
8. Cincinnati
9. Iowa
10. Oklahoma
-Charlie.
I thought about this and I really like seeing preseason rankings because it puts everything up for discussion plus let fans debate whose team is the best. It also builds the hype around things going on in College Football but its not really rewarding the best teams out there. It is just giving rankings to teams the "experts" believe are going to best teams in college football. I think the rankings are something you need for the extreme fans where they do not know pro football just college. Places like Auburn, Baton Rogue, Eugene, Austin, and other places would be up in arms if they didn't know where their team stood at the beginning of the year.
My counter-argument would be the scores of all to the top 10 teams going down in the first four weeks of the year. South Carolina, Iowa and Oregon are both good teams with the jury still out about Washington but if we waited until this week, we could of really decided who belongs in the top 25. I believe the Ducks would be in there despite their lost to Boise St.
My personal rankings of the top 10 going off just results...
1. Florida
2. Alabama
3. Texas
4. LSU
5. Virgina Tech
6. USC
7. Ohio State
8. Cincinnati
9. Iowa
10. Oklahoma
-Charlie.
Monday, September 28, 2009
The Talk of the Midwest
Well I thought he was crazy. My buddy JS is a student at the University of Iowa and he had been telling me through Tweeting and various other sources that the Hawkeyes would be able to get it done in Happy Valley. I mentioned in the preview that Iowa would come close but no cigar, I was wrong on that front as the Hawkeyes won 21-10
The defense for Iowa was staggering. They were playing old-school smash mouth Big Ten Football at its finest. JS has been talking up Adrian Clayborn and I cannot disagree. He set the tone in the fourth quarter with the blocked punt for the touchdown. Further, the Nittany Lion offensive line was no match for him off the edge. Every time he seemed to be disrupting the quarterback. I didn't say this originally in my preview but the defense of Iowa was the reason why Daryll Clark was so bad after a hot start. It wasn't that he was nervous or anything like that, the D just shut him down and Evan Royster completly.
You really do have to wonder if this team is for real? Now say what you want about almost losing to Northern Iowa, I really feel that was not only a wake-up call but I think it will prevent a letdown from happening somewhere down the road. Looking at their schedule, obviously the Ohio State game on the road is huge but I do not see why it isn't winnable. They have always played well against the Wisconsin Badgers home/away and JS expressed worry about Michigan State. Well I have a stat to back that up, they haven't won in East Lansing since 1995.
I would really like to see Iowa or someone else not named Michigan, Penn State, or Ohio State win the Big Ten this year. Its always nice to see a change in teams make up. JS wrote on my wall "Smells like Roses" so he is ready to "Kiss da baby" to the Big Ten but I will assess that once they get to the Horseshoe.
-Charlie
The defense for Iowa was staggering. They were playing old-school smash mouth Big Ten Football at its finest. JS has been talking up Adrian Clayborn and I cannot disagree. He set the tone in the fourth quarter with the blocked punt for the touchdown. Further, the Nittany Lion offensive line was no match for him off the edge. Every time he seemed to be disrupting the quarterback. I didn't say this originally in my preview but the defense of Iowa was the reason why Daryll Clark was so bad after a hot start. It wasn't that he was nervous or anything like that, the D just shut him down and Evan Royster completly.
You really do have to wonder if this team is for real? Now say what you want about almost losing to Northern Iowa, I really feel that was not only a wake-up call but I think it will prevent a letdown from happening somewhere down the road. Looking at their schedule, obviously the Ohio State game on the road is huge but I do not see why it isn't winnable. They have always played well against the Wisconsin Badgers home/away and JS expressed worry about Michigan State. Well I have a stat to back that up, they haven't won in East Lansing since 1995.
I would really like to see Iowa or someone else not named Michigan, Penn State, or Ohio State win the Big Ten this year. Its always nice to see a change in teams make up. JS wrote on my wall "Smells like Roses" so he is ready to "Kiss da baby" to the Big Ten but I will assess that once they get to the Horseshoe.
-Charlie
Friday, September 25, 2009
NCAA Week Four Picks
I have no creative title with you because I am enjoying a few rum/diets. Sorry everyone who expects the creative titles but here are the picks.
1. Florida-at Kentucky- Many people were left wondering if the Gators offense isn't as good as we thought they were after Tennessee. Kentucky has always been pesky at home and they have been alright so far this season. I think this game is close until the fourth. UF 35-21
2. Texas-vs. UTEP- The Longhorns defense looked pretty good against the Red Raiders last weekend and now they get to pray on the Miners. This shouldn't be a problem for Colt McCoy. UT 52-17
3. Alabama-vs. Arkansas- A lot of hype surrounding the Crimson Tide so far and I will be interested in this game because you have a good offense going up against a great defense. Ryan Mallet will be tested for sure in this one and too much pressure in Tuscaloosa. BAMA 24-9
4. Ole Miss-at South Carolina- Covered HERE- Also I would like to say Jevan Sneed thanks for being the most overrated player in the NCAA so far. Congrats.
5. Penn State-vs. Iowa- Covered HERE
6. California-at Oregon- "Chucks Corner Upset Alert III" I put Penn State/UNC already but the Golden Bears looked alright against the Gophers last weekend plus Jahvid Best has to be the Heisman favorite so far. The Ducks looked good against Utah and I think the Autzen Zoo keeps it close yet they still fall in defeat. CAL 38-34
7. LSU-at Mississippi St.- The Tigers are beating up on the teams that they are supposed to beat so far and slowly creeping up the polls. There is no reason why they should lose to the Bulldogs even on the road. LSU 35-10
8. Boise State-at Bowling Green- Interesting matchup due to the fact its on the road for the Broncos whose offense looked awesome against the Bulldogs and the Falcons who came close to beating Missouri on the road. The Broncos win very close. BSU 41-35
9. Miami-at 11. Virginia Tech- The U has shot up to the top 10 and Jacory Harris is slowly becoming my favorite player of 2009 not named Tim Tebow. This could be a problem for the Canes because the Hokies have a great defense. Yet I agree with my roommate Seth, Virginia Tech is overrated. The U pulls away late. MIA 28-17
11. Virgina Tech- SEE 9. Miami
12. USC-vs. Washington St.- The one team I wouldn't want to be is the Cougars. This will be an absolute train wreck for them. It will get ugly. USC 42-7
13. Ohio State-vs. Illinois- The Fighting Illini have disappointed so far therefore you have to wonder about Ron Zook's job a bit. I think the Buckeyes will not have a problem in this one at home especially. OSU 27-3
14. Cincinnati-vs. Fresno St.- Wait, the Bearcats have hiked up to the top 15. Talk about a team that might be in the Top 10 for no reason but just playing in the Big East. They will dominate the Bulldogs on the offense end. CINCY 45-20
15. TCU-at Clemson- This has to be the ultimate upset alert. The Horned Frogs haven't played anybody and the Tigers have a great running back in C.J. Spiller. I am definitely taking the Tigers in this one. CLEM 24-13
16. Oklahoma St.-vs. Grambling St.- The Cowboys are lucky they are playing an FCS team because they are missing Dez Bryant, Kendall Hunter, and some random corner thats good. They should still win. OSU 35-3
17. Houston-vs. Texas Tech- The Cougars are in the top 25 because they have beat Oklahoma State and can they do it again against the Red Raiders. I say yes because I really do not think Texas Tech is that good. HOU 52-28
18. Florida State-vs. South Florida- The Noles are back in the top 20 after dismantling BYU on the road and Christian Ponder is the real deal. This game has lost its luster because Matt Grothe is done for the year. Should be a blowout. FSU 38-3
19. BYU-vs. Colorado State- The Cougars have once again become irrelevant as they falter into the bottom half of the top 25. They will be fine against the Rams. BYU 41-14
20. Kansas-vs. Southern Miss- The Jayhawks haven't played anyone so far but I really feel that the Eagles haven't played anyone special plus almost lost to Virginia. Todd Reesing and company should just dominate. KU 42-21
21. Georgia-vs. Arizona St.- The Sun Devils are the top defense in the nation so far but they have played teams that are comparable to the Special Olympics. The Bulldogs showed me something last week and they should be fine against ASU. DAWGS 34-13
22. North Carolina-at Georgia Tech- This is a weak one but "Chucks Corner Upset Alert". This one has to fall into place. The Yellow Jackets are mad about the lost from last week and the Tar Heels haven't done much so far this year. GT 28-14
23. Michigan-vs. Indiana- The Wolverines get their taste of Big 10 football but the Hoosiers who are undefeated, shouldn't be a problem for Michigan. They should do work on Saturday. MICH 35-10
24. Washington-at Stanford- You have to wonder if this is a for sure letdown for the Huskies after beating the Trojans. This game will be close and it will be an ugly performance by both teams. I like Jake Locker so he will pull them out late. WASH 20-17
25. Nebraska-vs. LA Layfette- The Cornhuskers are playing another cupcake after losing a tight one last week against the Hokies. They should be fine in this one. NEB 49-6
-Charlie.
1. Florida-at Kentucky- Many people were left wondering if the Gators offense isn't as good as we thought they were after Tennessee. Kentucky has always been pesky at home and they have been alright so far this season. I think this game is close until the fourth. UF 35-21
2. Texas-vs. UTEP- The Longhorns defense looked pretty good against the Red Raiders last weekend and now they get to pray on the Miners. This shouldn't be a problem for Colt McCoy. UT 52-17
3. Alabama-vs. Arkansas- A lot of hype surrounding the Crimson Tide so far and I will be interested in this game because you have a good offense going up against a great defense. Ryan Mallet will be tested for sure in this one and too much pressure in Tuscaloosa. BAMA 24-9
4. Ole Miss-at South Carolina- Covered HERE- Also I would like to say Jevan Sneed thanks for being the most overrated player in the NCAA so far. Congrats.
5. Penn State-vs. Iowa- Covered HERE
6. California-at Oregon- "Chucks Corner Upset Alert III" I put Penn State/UNC already but the Golden Bears looked alright against the Gophers last weekend plus Jahvid Best has to be the Heisman favorite so far. The Ducks looked good against Utah and I think the Autzen Zoo keeps it close yet they still fall in defeat. CAL 38-34
7. LSU-at Mississippi St.- The Tigers are beating up on the teams that they are supposed to beat so far and slowly creeping up the polls. There is no reason why they should lose to the Bulldogs even on the road. LSU 35-10
8. Boise State-at Bowling Green- Interesting matchup due to the fact its on the road for the Broncos whose offense looked awesome against the Bulldogs and the Falcons who came close to beating Missouri on the road. The Broncos win very close. BSU 41-35
9. Miami-at 11. Virginia Tech- The U has shot up to the top 10 and Jacory Harris is slowly becoming my favorite player of 2009 not named Tim Tebow. This could be a problem for the Canes because the Hokies have a great defense. Yet I agree with my roommate Seth, Virginia Tech is overrated. The U pulls away late. MIA 28-17
11. Virgina Tech- SEE 9. Miami
12. USC-vs. Washington St.- The one team I wouldn't want to be is the Cougars. This will be an absolute train wreck for them. It will get ugly. USC 42-7
13. Ohio State-vs. Illinois- The Fighting Illini have disappointed so far therefore you have to wonder about Ron Zook's job a bit. I think the Buckeyes will not have a problem in this one at home especially. OSU 27-3
14. Cincinnati-vs. Fresno St.- Wait, the Bearcats have hiked up to the top 15. Talk about a team that might be in the Top 10 for no reason but just playing in the Big East. They will dominate the Bulldogs on the offense end. CINCY 45-20
15. TCU-at Clemson- This has to be the ultimate upset alert. The Horned Frogs haven't played anybody and the Tigers have a great running back in C.J. Spiller. I am definitely taking the Tigers in this one. CLEM 24-13
16. Oklahoma St.-vs. Grambling St.- The Cowboys are lucky they are playing an FCS team because they are missing Dez Bryant, Kendall Hunter, and some random corner thats good. They should still win. OSU 35-3
17. Houston-vs. Texas Tech- The Cougars are in the top 25 because they have beat Oklahoma State and can they do it again against the Red Raiders. I say yes because I really do not think Texas Tech is that good. HOU 52-28
18. Florida State-vs. South Florida- The Noles are back in the top 20 after dismantling BYU on the road and Christian Ponder is the real deal. This game has lost its luster because Matt Grothe is done for the year. Should be a blowout. FSU 38-3
19. BYU-vs. Colorado State- The Cougars have once again become irrelevant as they falter into the bottom half of the top 25. They will be fine against the Rams. BYU 41-14
20. Kansas-vs. Southern Miss- The Jayhawks haven't played anyone so far but I really feel that the Eagles haven't played anyone special plus almost lost to Virginia. Todd Reesing and company should just dominate. KU 42-21
21. Georgia-vs. Arizona St.- The Sun Devils are the top defense in the nation so far but they have played teams that are comparable to the Special Olympics. The Bulldogs showed me something last week and they should be fine against ASU. DAWGS 34-13
22. North Carolina-at Georgia Tech- This is a weak one but "Chucks Corner Upset Alert". This one has to fall into place. The Yellow Jackets are mad about the lost from last week and the Tar Heels haven't done much so far this year. GT 28-14
23. Michigan-vs. Indiana- The Wolverines get their taste of Big 10 football but the Hoosiers who are undefeated, shouldn't be a problem for Michigan. They should do work on Saturday. MICH 35-10
24. Washington-at Stanford- You have to wonder if this is a for sure letdown for the Huskies after beating the Trojans. This game will be close and it will be an ugly performance by both teams. I like Jake Locker so he will pull them out late. WASH 20-17
25. Nebraska-vs. LA Layfette- The Cornhuskers are playing another cupcake after losing a tight one last week against the Hokies. They should be fine in this one. NEB 49-6
-Charlie.
The Haunting of Thursday Nights; Iowa-Penn State Preview
I would like to announce that my buddy and your friend Mach is now my editor. He will be all the behind the scenes dirty work and I will put a title on the actual blog sometime in the near future. Who knows, he may write a couple times for us. Also my other buddy JS who is a student at the University of Iowa asked me to do a write up for the big Saturday Night showdown against Penn State. Me being a man of the people I have done that for him.
First off, if you were a top 10 team would you be regretting playing any games on Thursday night? Look how many times teams have fallen from their top spots when they have played on the prime time Thursday night spot. Usually they are on the road, and its really never ends well for them. For example, the ones I can remember is Ole Miss last night, USC last year, Louisville a couple years ago, and Oregon with Dennis Dixon. Those teams all had National Championship aspirations. WSSP 1250 Mike Wickett who I enjoy was tweeting throughout the game and said that the Rebels had to be the most overrated team in the NCAA plus Snead seemed rattled the whole game. Knowing the Thursday night aspect, I knew it would be close but I didn't think South Carolina had enough to pull it off.
Now on to the Iowa-Penn State preview when I first saw this as the prime time game, I felt it had blowout written all over it. The reasons were rather simple; Happy Valley is a tough place to play in daylight but when it goes dark, its a whole another animal. The revenge factor plus a tenacious defense. But the week has progressed, I began thinking this could end up in Iowa's favorite even in Happy Valley. Here are three good reasons why this game will be close...
The first would be that Sean Lee, the leader of the Lion defense is out with injury. When you lose a guy like that in major college football its tough to make up what he brings to the table every game he plays. The Hawkeyes should be using their tight ends and running backs in pass plays to disrupt the linebacker crew.
I believe Daryll Clark's decision making may be a problem. You might feel that this is an advantage to Penn State but hear me out. Clark talking to whoever wants to listen about how much redemption he wants from this game and that he broke down crying the day after the lost to Iowa last year. Something tells me that Clark may try a bit too hard especially in the beginning of the game, that it could be a couple turnovers.
A lot like Ole Miss, Penn State played one of the softest schedule, you would think they were playing the Charmin Bears. They haven't been tested while Iowa dismantled a pretty good Arizona team at home and after that near disaster against Northern Iowa, they seem to have got their shit together on the defensive end. The first four drives whoever has them will set the pace.
JS, I would love to take the Hawkeyes but I cannot do it with this team at home. Its going to be a battle to the end and a great Big 10 defense kind of game. I think the Nittany Lions win on a very late field goal. Expect a classic. PSU 16-13
-Charlie.
First off, if you were a top 10 team would you be regretting playing any games on Thursday night? Look how many times teams have fallen from their top spots when they have played on the prime time Thursday night spot. Usually they are on the road, and its really never ends well for them. For example, the ones I can remember is Ole Miss last night, USC last year, Louisville a couple years ago, and Oregon with Dennis Dixon. Those teams all had National Championship aspirations. WSSP 1250 Mike Wickett who I enjoy was tweeting throughout the game and said that the Rebels had to be the most overrated team in the NCAA plus Snead seemed rattled the whole game. Knowing the Thursday night aspect, I knew it would be close but I didn't think South Carolina had enough to pull it off.
Now on to the Iowa-Penn State preview when I first saw this as the prime time game, I felt it had blowout written all over it. The reasons were rather simple; Happy Valley is a tough place to play in daylight but when it goes dark, its a whole another animal. The revenge factor plus a tenacious defense. But the week has progressed, I began thinking this could end up in Iowa's favorite even in Happy Valley. Here are three good reasons why this game will be close...
The first would be that Sean Lee, the leader of the Lion defense is out with injury. When you lose a guy like that in major college football its tough to make up what he brings to the table every game he plays. The Hawkeyes should be using their tight ends and running backs in pass plays to disrupt the linebacker crew.
I believe Daryll Clark's decision making may be a problem. You might feel that this is an advantage to Penn State but hear me out. Clark talking to whoever wants to listen about how much redemption he wants from this game and that he broke down crying the day after the lost to Iowa last year. Something tells me that Clark may try a bit too hard especially in the beginning of the game, that it could be a couple turnovers.
A lot like Ole Miss, Penn State played one of the softest schedule, you would think they were playing the Charmin Bears. They haven't been tested while Iowa dismantled a pretty good Arizona team at home and after that near disaster against Northern Iowa, they seem to have got their shit together on the defensive end. The first four drives whoever has them will set the pace.
JS, I would love to take the Hawkeyes but I cannot do it with this team at home. Its going to be a battle to the end and a great Big 10 defense kind of game. I think the Nittany Lions win on a very late field goal. Expect a classic. PSU 16-13
-Charlie.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
I Am In Need of a Dorlean
Man I hate to say that I told you so but.... I told you so about Anthony Smith. Now that both of our safeties are banged up and add to the fact, the Packers finally figured out that Aaron Rouse is washed up. Why on earth didn't we keep Anthony Smith? I really hope this is a big question at the end of the season to Ted Thompson.
I am not one to criticize the management especially with the Green Bay Packers but this one falls slowly on the Thompson/Mike McCarthy. I have no idea why Anthony Smith wasn't kept. I have a few reasons why he should have been.
1. Bigby's sudden injury proneness- I am starting to fall out flavor with Bigby because he can throw around the hard hits but Bigby gets hurt more than Eric is wrong. Therefore thats a lot for those who do not know E. He even got banged up around training camp and I really do believe the Bigby experiment will be done after 09.
2. Aaron Rouse- He sucked in preseason due to the fact he had a hamstring injury throughout the whole training camp. Once again, why wasn't he the one cut instead of Smith?! I do not get it whatsoever. The middle was like a parting of the red sea from the linebacker to the safeties with Rouse back there. Then we cut him in the third week. Awesome.
3. He knows the 3-4- He played for the Pittsburgh Steelers for many years therefore he knows how to play the system unlike the guys we have out there. Cmon Ted this seems way too simple.
I am not one to criticize the management especially with the Green Bay Packers but this one falls slowly on the Thompson/Mike McCarthy. I have no idea why Anthony Smith wasn't kept. I have a few reasons why he should have been.
1. Bigby's sudden injury proneness- I am starting to fall out flavor with Bigby because he can throw around the hard hits but Bigby gets hurt more than Eric is wrong. Therefore thats a lot for those who do not know E. He even got banged up around training camp and I really do believe the Bigby experiment will be done after 09.
2. Aaron Rouse- He sucked in preseason due to the fact he had a hamstring injury throughout the whole training camp. Once again, why wasn't he the one cut instead of Smith?! I do not get it whatsoever. The middle was like a parting of the red sea from the linebacker to the safeties with Rouse back there. Then we cut him in the third week. Awesome.
3. He knows the 3-4- He played for the Pittsburgh Steelers for many years therefore he knows how to play the system unlike the guys we have out there. Cmon Ted this seems way too simple.
Bobby Cox: A Firey Class Act
I apologize for the lack of posting in the month of September but school has started plus a mild obsession with Dexter has led me to not post as much as I probably should. Maybe its better because you are getting my best work. Anyways, it will be a busy October with Brewer grades plus an overall thoughts on the season. Add that along with all the football stuff plus postseason baseball.
Lets talk some baseball to start off the day with the announced retirement of Bobby Cox in 2010 from the Atlanta Braves. This is a major loss for baseball and the Atlanta Braves franchise. He was a class act and he vaulted the Braves into one of the well-known MLB franchises throughout the 90s and early 00s. The one that I loved Cox's passion that he brought to game where honestly you could be hungover and still play like a champ (I believe many guys do but thats just me). I loved the fact Cox got ejected 100+ times and I always enjoyed see him get tossed.
There were so many players that made a name for themselves under Cox like Greg Maddux, John Smoltz, David Justice, Chipper Jones, Fred McGriff, and Jermanie Dye. There are many others that I could name too but Cox was a complete difference maker in many careers.
Many people could criticize Cox for the fact he could only get his team to the playoffs and not close. I think that is unwarranted because the New York Yankees and the rest of the American League at that time (still today) was dominant. In addition, you look at the Cleveland Indian team they played in 95 was a no-doubt about it one of the best teams to not win a World Series.
-Charlie.
Lets talk some baseball to start off the day with the announced retirement of Bobby Cox in 2010 from the Atlanta Braves. This is a major loss for baseball and the Atlanta Braves franchise. He was a class act and he vaulted the Braves into one of the well-known MLB franchises throughout the 90s and early 00s. The one that I loved Cox's passion that he brought to game where honestly you could be hungover and still play like a champ (I believe many guys do but thats just me). I loved the fact Cox got ejected 100+ times and I always enjoyed see him get tossed.
There were so many players that made a name for themselves under Cox like Greg Maddux, John Smoltz, David Justice, Chipper Jones, Fred McGriff, and Jermanie Dye. There are many others that I could name too but Cox was a complete difference maker in many careers.
Many people could criticize Cox for the fact he could only get his team to the playoffs and not close. I think that is unwarranted because the New York Yankees and the rest of the American League at that time (still today) was dominant. In addition, you look at the Cleveland Indian team they played in 95 was a no-doubt about it one of the best teams to not win a World Series.
-Charlie.
Monday, September 21, 2009
USC Hates Grudge Music
Now I do not know if that's true at all but I feel the title is fitting because the Trojans cannot win in the Pacific Northwest for whatever reason. I have a theory personally and I feel its very fitting with what went on.
At first when I saw Erik Folk hit the field goal that toppled the mighty Trojans, I thought well you really cannot blame this lost on USC. They didn't have Matt Barkley, Taylor Mays, they had a sick Joe McKnight, and it was a cold/rainy day in Seattle. Then I came to a realization today, even with all those aspects there should be no reason why the Trojans should lose to the Washington Huskies.
Now people were making a big deal about the fact they were 0-12 last year. I say bullshit because they played teams like Oklahoma, tough one-point loss to BYU, and Notre Dame plus add to the fact, the team gave up on Tyrone Willingham all make for disaster. In addition, Jake Locker is a year older who might be one of the more underrated players in the nation.
Still, I think the Trojans shouldn't have loss on Saturday and Pete Carroll has to fall on some of the blame. He is one of my all time favorite coaches but I feel that he might be too loose for his own good. Carroll seems like the one guy who I would want play for but I think players become too content with the name. Now the Trojans will likely end up in the Rose Bowl again which is still a great honor but doesn't it become tiring after awhile?
-Charlie.
At first when I saw Erik Folk hit the field goal that toppled the mighty Trojans, I thought well you really cannot blame this lost on USC. They didn't have Matt Barkley, Taylor Mays, they had a sick Joe McKnight, and it was a cold/rainy day in Seattle. Then I came to a realization today, even with all those aspects there should be no reason why the Trojans should lose to the Washington Huskies.
Now people were making a big deal about the fact they were 0-12 last year. I say bullshit because they played teams like Oklahoma, tough one-point loss to BYU, and Notre Dame plus add to the fact, the team gave up on Tyrone Willingham all make for disaster. In addition, Jake Locker is a year older who might be one of the more underrated players in the nation.
Still, I think the Trojans shouldn't have loss on Saturday and Pete Carroll has to fall on some of the blame. He is one of my all time favorite coaches but I feel that he might be too loose for his own good. Carroll seems like the one guy who I would want play for but I think players become too content with the name. Now the Trojans will likely end up in the Rose Bowl again which is still a great honor but doesn't it become tiring after awhile?
-Charlie.
The Return of the U
I have this opinion about sports that some might not agree with. I think when perennial powerhouses are at their best, it makes the sport better. When you have teams like the New York Yankees, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Kentucky Basketball, Los Angles Lakers/Boston Celtics, and so on. I would like add that college basketball/football have many of them and one of those others is the Miami Hurricanes.
When I was growing up it seemed like the Canes were invincible with guys like Sean Taylor, Andre Johnson, Clinton Portis, Frank Gore, and Willis McGehee. That is basically the tip of the iceberg when you talk about notable players from the U that are now complete studs in the NFL. Those are the guys I remember and since the firing of Larry Coker, they have fallen off the face of the earth until now.
Led by Heisman favorite Jacory Harris, the Canes have told the world that they are back in business after their rousing 34-17 victory against Georgia Tech and now can really prove if they are legit against Virginia Tech/Oklahoma in the next two weeks. More on Harris, I think he could be the next big thing. He is young (only a sophomore) can do it with his arm and his feet. I really believe Harris will be in the running for the Heisman at the end of the year. The other thing I am noticing is they have that "We are the best, and you guys aren't even close to our level." They have that fire back the teams who won the national championship and the runner-ups had.
The crazy thing is that if they beat VT and OU, they might be a favorite to be a representative in the National Championship. As crazy as that sounds, they play in the ACC which is comparable in terms of being awful to the AFC West in the NFL. Miami could come out of nowhere and being a contender. I will be tuning in these next two weeks to see if the U can do it.
-Charlie.
When I was growing up it seemed like the Canes were invincible with guys like Sean Taylor, Andre Johnson, Clinton Portis, Frank Gore, and Willis McGehee. That is basically the tip of the iceberg when you talk about notable players from the U that are now complete studs in the NFL. Those are the guys I remember and since the firing of Larry Coker, they have fallen off the face of the earth until now.
Led by Heisman favorite Jacory Harris, the Canes have told the world that they are back in business after their rousing 34-17 victory against Georgia Tech and now can really prove if they are legit against Virginia Tech/Oklahoma in the next two weeks. More on Harris, I think he could be the next big thing. He is young (only a sophomore) can do it with his arm and his feet. I really believe Harris will be in the running for the Heisman at the end of the year. The other thing I am noticing is they have that "We are the best, and you guys aren't even close to our level." They have that fire back the teams who won the national championship and the runner-ups had.
The crazy thing is that if they beat VT and OU, they might be a favorite to be a representative in the National Championship. As crazy as that sounds, they play in the ACC which is comparable in terms of being awful to the AFC West in the NFL. Miami could come out of nowhere and being a contender. I will be tuning in these next two weeks to see if the U can do it.
-Charlie.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
NFL Picks: Week 2: Talkin' More Trash Than Kerry Rhodes
New England (1-0) at New York Jets (1-0)- This is one of the big games of the weekend with a lot of trash talking by Rex Ryan and Kerry Rhodes saying how much they are going to beat down the Pats. I wouldn't piss off Tom Brady and Bill Bellichek just like Urban Meyer/Tim Tebow so this could get ugly. I think Simmons will see his FU touchdown again. NE 35-21
New Orleans (1-0) at Philadelphia (1-0)- This was going to be a good game until Donovan McNabb got his rib cracked. I think Kevin Kolb is not very good and will need his defense to carry him. The Saints will also prove if they are the real deal against a very good defense and I think they will win handily because of Kolb's inefficiently. NO 20-7
St. Louis (0-1) at Washington (0-1)- The Redskins looked okay against the Giants who were very tough and now they play the team that looked the worst last Sunday. I think Jason Campbell and all the offense will have a big time stats increase. WASH 38-17
Arizona (0-1) at Jacksonville (0-1)- Well the Cardinals have been horrible when they are playing at noon starts and the Jaguars defense looked tough against the Colts. I think the Jags need more from David Garrard and the Cards need to hope that Anquan Boldin is ready to go. Jags pull it out late. JAX 21-17
Carolina (0-1) at Atlanta (1-0)- The Panthers are wondering what their identity is after Jake Delhomme looks like a complete corpse. Despite my main man Simmons says I really don't see any hope for Jake the Snake and I am believer that Atlanta's defense is the real deal. ATL 31-14
Minnesota (1-0) at Detroit (0-1)- Will this be the week for the Lions? They have played the Vikes tough at home and Brett Favre has struggled in Ford Field. Adrian Peterson will be way too much for the Lions but I feel they keep it somewhat close. MINN 34-21
Cincinnati (0-1) at Green Bay (1-0)- I watched Hard Knocks this week and I was a huge fan of the Bengals team just because they were very humorous especially Ocho Cinco. Although this week will not be good for them with tough defense again and Aaron Rodgers having a big game. GB 28-10
Houston (0-1) at Tennessee (0-1)- Both teams need this game desperately and they usually play tight games against each other. I think the Texans need this game more and we will know if they are the sleeper that everyone has been saying. The Titans will drain Houston out with the running back tandem. TEN 21-14
Oakland (0-1) at Kansas City (0-1)- This game will be like watching paint dry and the Raiders did look impressive against San Diego. Also Richard Seymour will carry this defensive line who will play well all year because he needs a contract. The Chiefs defense isn't that good at all so Run DMC/Michael Bush should take care of business. OAK 35-17
Tampa Bay (0-1) at Buffalo (0-1)- What an awful game. I am sorry to anyone who has to watch this game on Sunday. I will look forward to see Terrell Owens try to self-explode possibly on Sunday. TO probably will have a big game because the Bucs couldn't stop the pass. BUF 24-9
Seattle (1-0) at San Francisco (1-0)- This is an interesting game for many reasons because I think we all are wondering if the Niners are the real deal same goes with Matt Hassleback. I think this will be a close NFC West battle with the Hawks hitting a field goal late. SEA 24-21
Baltimore (1-0) at San Diego (1-0)- The Ravens are getting a lot of hype for their offense which is really unfair due to the Chiefs comparable to High School defense. This will say a lot about both teams. I am taking the Ravens but I will be interested to see if the Chargers do better with Darren Sporles back there. BALT 17-10
Pittsburgh (1-0) at Chicago (0-1)- A great way to start out Jay Cutler's career at Solider Field but he did tear up the Steelers last time they played. I actually think this will be high scoring for Pittsburgh due to Brian Urlacher being out of the game. PITT 35-20
Cleveland (0-1) at Denver (1-0)- This a weird rivalry because the John Elway game and Ernest Byner game as well. Plus the Jay Cutler comeback last season too. This game will be weird again in someway and the Broncos will somehow be 2-0. DEN 24-16
New York Giants (1-0) at Dallas (1-0)- The odds that the scoreboard gets hit? I am really pulling for that to happen. I think this will be the best game of the weekend with Tony Romo's new passing game plus the Giants defense being back. Also it will be interesting to see if Eli Manning develops a relationship with any of the receivers. I take the home team close. DAL 24-17
Indianapolis (1-0) at Miami (0-1)- The Dolphins looked like the 1-15 team last weekend and Peyton Manning's defense actually helped him out more than ever last week. I think he will be fine without Anthony Gonzalez and I see real no hope with the Phins. IND 34-10
-Charlie
New Orleans (1-0) at Philadelphia (1-0)- This was going to be a good game until Donovan McNabb got his rib cracked. I think Kevin Kolb is not very good and will need his defense to carry him. The Saints will also prove if they are the real deal against a very good defense and I think they will win handily because of Kolb's inefficiently. NO 20-7
St. Louis (0-1) at Washington (0-1)- The Redskins looked okay against the Giants who were very tough and now they play the team that looked the worst last Sunday. I think Jason Campbell and all the offense will have a big time stats increase. WASH 38-17
Arizona (0-1) at Jacksonville (0-1)- Well the Cardinals have been horrible when they are playing at noon starts and the Jaguars defense looked tough against the Colts. I think the Jags need more from David Garrard and the Cards need to hope that Anquan Boldin is ready to go. Jags pull it out late. JAX 21-17
Carolina (0-1) at Atlanta (1-0)- The Panthers are wondering what their identity is after Jake Delhomme looks like a complete corpse. Despite my main man Simmons says I really don't see any hope for Jake the Snake and I am believer that Atlanta's defense is the real deal. ATL 31-14
Minnesota (1-0) at Detroit (0-1)- Will this be the week for the Lions? They have played the Vikes tough at home and Brett Favre has struggled in Ford Field. Adrian Peterson will be way too much for the Lions but I feel they keep it somewhat close. MINN 34-21
Cincinnati (0-1) at Green Bay (1-0)- I watched Hard Knocks this week and I was a huge fan of the Bengals team just because they were very humorous especially Ocho Cinco. Although this week will not be good for them with tough defense again and Aaron Rodgers having a big game. GB 28-10
Houston (0-1) at Tennessee (0-1)- Both teams need this game desperately and they usually play tight games against each other. I think the Texans need this game more and we will know if they are the sleeper that everyone has been saying. The Titans will drain Houston out with the running back tandem. TEN 21-14
Oakland (0-1) at Kansas City (0-1)- This game will be like watching paint dry and the Raiders did look impressive against San Diego. Also Richard Seymour will carry this defensive line who will play well all year because he needs a contract. The Chiefs defense isn't that good at all so Run DMC/Michael Bush should take care of business. OAK 35-17
Tampa Bay (0-1) at Buffalo (0-1)- What an awful game. I am sorry to anyone who has to watch this game on Sunday. I will look forward to see Terrell Owens try to self-explode possibly on Sunday. TO probably will have a big game because the Bucs couldn't stop the pass. BUF 24-9
Seattle (1-0) at San Francisco (1-0)- This is an interesting game for many reasons because I think we all are wondering if the Niners are the real deal same goes with Matt Hassleback. I think this will be a close NFC West battle with the Hawks hitting a field goal late. SEA 24-21
Baltimore (1-0) at San Diego (1-0)- The Ravens are getting a lot of hype for their offense which is really unfair due to the Chiefs comparable to High School defense. This will say a lot about both teams. I am taking the Ravens but I will be interested to see if the Chargers do better with Darren Sporles back there. BALT 17-10
Pittsburgh (1-0) at Chicago (0-1)- A great way to start out Jay Cutler's career at Solider Field but he did tear up the Steelers last time they played. I actually think this will be high scoring for Pittsburgh due to Brian Urlacher being out of the game. PITT 35-20
Cleveland (0-1) at Denver (1-0)- This a weird rivalry because the John Elway game and Ernest Byner game as well. Plus the Jay Cutler comeback last season too. This game will be weird again in someway and the Broncos will somehow be 2-0. DEN 24-16
New York Giants (1-0) at Dallas (1-0)- The odds that the scoreboard gets hit? I am really pulling for that to happen. I think this will be the best game of the weekend with Tony Romo's new passing game plus the Giants defense being back. Also it will be interesting to see if Eli Manning develops a relationship with any of the receivers. I take the home team close. DAL 24-17
Indianapolis (1-0) at Miami (0-1)- The Dolphins looked like the 1-15 team last weekend and Peyton Manning's defense actually helped him out more than ever last week. I think he will be fine without Anthony Gonzalez and I see real no hope with the Phins. IND 34-10
-Charlie
Friday, September 18, 2009
Drink it in Wisconsin
Maybe this will be a new feature who the hell knows whenever I say something will make a frequent appearance, it never stays. But this post will involve three teams in Wisconsin, one being the Badger Football team, Marquette Basketball, and the Milwaukee Brewers. You should all feel so lucky.
BADGER FOOTBALL- They are winning right now and probably giving Wofford all sorts of swine flu. The Journal came out with an article regarding the Badgers ingoring the flu and all sorts of it. I have discussed this with a couple of my friends and we all agree that the whole swine flu is overrated. But the flu in general is a very contagious so they really should have take better precautions. I think this is just another strike against Bret Bielema who really just wants to coach football and not worry about all of the outside things around him. This is the sort of stuff Bielema ignores.
MARQUETTE BBALL- Well I was going to write this before freshman Junior Cadougan ripped his Achilles in practice which makes another player getting hurt during practice. You wonder if Tom Crean's plan of practice is going on in there. We need to maybe pump the breaks a bit on the intensity. The real reason for this was the sexual assault charges on recruit Montrelle Clark which is very disappointing. He was 6'10 and was averaging a double-double in JUCO so you really have to wonder how Marquette will respond to all of this. I will take the good with the bad and whatever happens this season happens.
BREWERS- All the sudden, they are three games under .500. How the hell did this happen? Good for them, I hope they get to 81 wins so Eric can pay me ten dollars which I will pay for Brett's round of beers because the Cubs will finish higher than the Crew.
-Charlie.
BADGER FOOTBALL- They are winning right now and probably giving Wofford all sorts of swine flu. The Journal came out with an article regarding the Badgers ingoring the flu and all sorts of it. I have discussed this with a couple of my friends and we all agree that the whole swine flu is overrated. But the flu in general is a very contagious so they really should have take better precautions. I think this is just another strike against Bret Bielema who really just wants to coach football and not worry about all of the outside things around him. This is the sort of stuff Bielema ignores.
MARQUETTE BBALL- Well I was going to write this before freshman Junior Cadougan ripped his Achilles in practice which makes another player getting hurt during practice. You wonder if Tom Crean's plan of practice is going on in there. We need to maybe pump the breaks a bit on the intensity. The real reason for this was the sexual assault charges on recruit Montrelle Clark which is very disappointing. He was 6'10 and was averaging a double-double in JUCO so you really have to wonder how Marquette will respond to all of this. I will take the good with the bad and whatever happens this season happens.
BREWERS- All the sudden, they are three games under .500. How the hell did this happen? Good for them, I hope they get to 81 wins so Eric can pay me ten dollars which I will pay for Brett's round of beers because the Cubs will finish higher than the Crew.
-Charlie.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
NCAA Week Two Picks: Where Forcier Can Send His 1600 Friend Requests
I am really work on creative titles. That one is about as cheesy as it gets so if you think you have better ones for the picks and the wrap-up each week email me at tritscca@uwec.edu contemplating a gmail account for the Corner itself. Anyways, lets goooooo
1. Florida-vs. Tennessee- There a couple things that I wouldn't do in life. One of those things would be to not piss off Urban Meyer and the boys from Florida. If Lane Kiffin would have just said like Lovie Smith did, "I'm here to beat the Floridas, Georgias, and Alabamas and try to build a program." Well he didnt do that and now he will be getting his ass kicked. UF 49-21
2. Texas-vs. Texas Tech- Another team who is seeking revenge this weekend after the "Michael Crabtree game" last year where the Red Raiders put their stamp on the map. They have played a fluff schedule so far and they struggle on the road, rut roh. The Longhorns win handily. UT 38-16
3. USC-at Washington- The Trojans need to be careful in this one with having Taylor Mays/Matt Barkley both banged up and a Husky team who would like to show they belong plus some added USC ties. I think this game is close until the fourth quarter. USC 31-21
4. Alabama-vs. North Texas- This shouldn't be a challenge for the Crimson Tide who are getting themselves prepared for the dog fight in the SEC. BAMA 35-3
5. Penn State-vs. Temple- Didn't the Owls get rid of their football team? Oh wait they just downgraded leagues. Well Joe Pa's bunch hasn't played any juggernauts yet but their D does look intimidating. PSU 38-3
5. Mississippi-vs. SE Louisiana- The Rebels are in the same spot as the Cowboys last week. Are they for real or not? Good thing they are playing an FCS team so there shouldn't be a letdown at all. OLE MISS 45-14
7. BYU-vs. Florida State- Before my blog got deleted, I said how weird and strange it was that a top powerhouse program was nowhere to be found in a top 25 heading to a non-BCS team. It will be another tough weekend for the ACC as the Noles will fall again. BYU 27-17
8. California-at Minnesota- Another Chuck's Corner Upset Alert!! I think this one makes perfect sense to be a very tight ball game. The Golden Bears are usually just getting up when this game begins therefore the internal clocks might not be there. The stadium is still brand new and they want to protect the turf. Jahvid Best wills his team to victory, barely. CAL 31-28
9. LSU-vs. LA Layfette- Like I said before, the blog got deleted at some point while writing therefore I have no real ounce of care in my body to tell you about this one... blowout. LSU 34-17
1o. Boise State-at Fresno State- Chuck's Corner's Upset Alert time... The Bulldogs looked very impressive against Wisconsin who I would consider a middle of the road Big Ten team on the road. The Bulldogs have a great offense with an average defense. But I call the upset happens in the Valley. FSU 41-35
11. Ohio State-at Toledo- The Rockets put up a huge number of points against "Intermurals Brother" but I highly doubt this will happen against the Buckeyes. They are hungry, out for revenge from last weekend. OSU 35-17
12. Oklahoma-vs. Tulsa- This will be the first true test for Landry Jones and his mustache to see if he is the real deal because the Golden Hurricane are a decent team. They aren't the best yet they will push him. Close until the fourth. OKLA 38-24
13. Virginia Tech-vs. 19. Nebraska- The Hokies head into another tough game where Tyrod Taylor will be tested and I think he is a bit like Terrelle Pryor in using his legs too damn much. If he loses this one, I think we have to put him into question. I think Taylor pulls it out late in a defensive struggle. VT 17-13
14. Georgia Tech-at 20. Miami- This is the big showdown tomorrow night where the Yellow Jackets have won four straight against the Canes and Miami has a chance to prove that they have staying power if they win. I think the U gets it done, they had a lot of time to prepared and they are ready for a big time win at home. MIAMI 24-21
15. TCU-vs. Texas State- This game will get ugly seeing as they are playing the Sisters of the Poor. The Horned Frogs have it pretty easy on Saturday. TCU 42-0
16. Okla. State-vs. Rice- I cannot begin to tell you how disappointed I was that the Cowboys lost last Saturday. I always like new teams breaking the mold of the regulars and they proved they are just another pretender. Pokes get it done this week though. OSU 38-10
17. Cincinnati-at Oregon St.- I think this is a true test to see who is the real deal. One side have the Tony Pike-Mardy Gilyard connection while on the other side you got Jacquizz Rodgers and friends. This will be a battle but I think the Beavers get it done on a late FG. OSU 34-31
18. Utah-at Oregon- The Fightin Mitch Pratts welcome a non-BCS team to the Autzen Zoo where it isn't easy to get a win. The Ducks are still tyring to find themselves after a close win against Purdue who isn't all that special. Oregon will find a way to find and not lose to another mid-major. ORE 35-24
19. Nebraska- SEE 13. Virginia Tech
20. Miami- SEE 14. Georgia Tech
22. Kansas-vs. Duke- Does anyone wish this was scheduled as a basketball game? This will be a thrashing of the Blue Devils with the high-power Jayhawk offense. KU 45-6
23. Georgia-at Arkansas- The Dawgs have not found a way to stop anyone on defense which concerns me going up a team featuring Ryan Mallet and a real good offensive plan. This one has all the making of an upset with the Hogs have two weeks to prepare plus a home-opener. ARK 28-24
24. North Carolina-vs. East Carolina- The Tar Heels got bailed out by a safety last weekend and they play a Pirate team who isn't shy of the upset. This one will be close for awhile but a big turnover will change the game. UNC 31-17
25. Michigan-vs. Eastern Michigan- If the Wolverines have a let down in this one, I think that all hope is lost for the program. They should be fine and like I said earlier in the week, Tate Forcier is the real deal. MICH 42-9
1. Florida-vs. Tennessee- There a couple things that I wouldn't do in life. One of those things would be to not piss off Urban Meyer and the boys from Florida. If Lane Kiffin would have just said like Lovie Smith did, "I'm here to beat the Floridas, Georgias, and Alabamas and try to build a program." Well he didnt do that and now he will be getting his ass kicked. UF 49-21
2. Texas-vs. Texas Tech- Another team who is seeking revenge this weekend after the "Michael Crabtree game" last year where the Red Raiders put their stamp on the map. They have played a fluff schedule so far and they struggle on the road, rut roh. The Longhorns win handily. UT 38-16
3. USC-at Washington- The Trojans need to be careful in this one with having Taylor Mays/Matt Barkley both banged up and a Husky team who would like to show they belong plus some added USC ties. I think this game is close until the fourth quarter. USC 31-21
4. Alabama-vs. North Texas- This shouldn't be a challenge for the Crimson Tide who are getting themselves prepared for the dog fight in the SEC. BAMA 35-3
5. Penn State-vs. Temple- Didn't the Owls get rid of their football team? Oh wait they just downgraded leagues. Well Joe Pa's bunch hasn't played any juggernauts yet but their D does look intimidating. PSU 38-3
5. Mississippi-vs. SE Louisiana- The Rebels are in the same spot as the Cowboys last week. Are they for real or not? Good thing they are playing an FCS team so there shouldn't be a letdown at all. OLE MISS 45-14
7. BYU-vs. Florida State- Before my blog got deleted, I said how weird and strange it was that a top powerhouse program was nowhere to be found in a top 25 heading to a non-BCS team. It will be another tough weekend for the ACC as the Noles will fall again. BYU 27-17
8. California-at Minnesota- Another Chuck's Corner Upset Alert!! I think this one makes perfect sense to be a very tight ball game. The Golden Bears are usually just getting up when this game begins therefore the internal clocks might not be there. The stadium is still brand new and they want to protect the turf. Jahvid Best wills his team to victory, barely. CAL 31-28
9. LSU-vs. LA Layfette- Like I said before, the blog got deleted at some point while writing therefore I have no real ounce of care in my body to tell you about this one... blowout. LSU 34-17
1o. Boise State-at Fresno State- Chuck's Corner's Upset Alert time... The Bulldogs looked very impressive against Wisconsin who I would consider a middle of the road Big Ten team on the road. The Bulldogs have a great offense with an average defense. But I call the upset happens in the Valley. FSU 41-35
11. Ohio State-at Toledo- The Rockets put up a huge number of points against "Intermurals Brother" but I highly doubt this will happen against the Buckeyes. They are hungry, out for revenge from last weekend. OSU 35-17
12. Oklahoma-vs. Tulsa- This will be the first true test for Landry Jones and his mustache to see if he is the real deal because the Golden Hurricane are a decent team. They aren't the best yet they will push him. Close until the fourth. OKLA 38-24
13. Virginia Tech-vs. 19. Nebraska- The Hokies head into another tough game where Tyrod Taylor will be tested and I think he is a bit like Terrelle Pryor in using his legs too damn much. If he loses this one, I think we have to put him into question. I think Taylor pulls it out late in a defensive struggle. VT 17-13
14. Georgia Tech-at 20. Miami- This is the big showdown tomorrow night where the Yellow Jackets have won four straight against the Canes and Miami has a chance to prove that they have staying power if they win. I think the U gets it done, they had a lot of time to prepared and they are ready for a big time win at home. MIAMI 24-21
15. TCU-vs. Texas State- This game will get ugly seeing as they are playing the Sisters of the Poor. The Horned Frogs have it pretty easy on Saturday. TCU 42-0
16. Okla. State-vs. Rice- I cannot begin to tell you how disappointed I was that the Cowboys lost last Saturday. I always like new teams breaking the mold of the regulars and they proved they are just another pretender. Pokes get it done this week though. OSU 38-10
17. Cincinnati-at Oregon St.- I think this is a true test to see who is the real deal. One side have the Tony Pike-Mardy Gilyard connection while on the other side you got Jacquizz Rodgers and friends. This will be a battle but I think the Beavers get it done on a late FG. OSU 34-31
18. Utah-at Oregon- The Fightin Mitch Pratts welcome a non-BCS team to the Autzen Zoo where it isn't easy to get a win. The Ducks are still tyring to find themselves after a close win against Purdue who isn't all that special. Oregon will find a way to find and not lose to another mid-major. ORE 35-24
19. Nebraska- SEE 13. Virginia Tech
20. Miami- SEE 14. Georgia Tech
22. Kansas-vs. Duke- Does anyone wish this was scheduled as a basketball game? This will be a thrashing of the Blue Devils with the high-power Jayhawk offense. KU 45-6
23. Georgia-at Arkansas- The Dawgs have not found a way to stop anyone on defense which concerns me going up a team featuring Ryan Mallet and a real good offensive plan. This one has all the making of an upset with the Hogs have two weeks to prepare plus a home-opener. ARK 28-24
24. North Carolina-vs. East Carolina- The Tar Heels got bailed out by a safety last weekend and they play a Pirate team who isn't shy of the upset. This one will be close for awhile but a big turnover will change the game. UNC 31-17
25. Michigan-vs. Eastern Michigan- If the Wolverines have a let down in this one, I think that all hope is lost for the program. They should be fine and like I said earlier in the week, Tate Forcier is the real deal. MICH 42-9
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Ocho Headed for the Lambeau Crowd... Child Please
If you do not know what Child Please is, I demand you look up what Chad Ochocinco said on Hard Knocks this season. Also that title is no disrespect to Chad, I just wanted to use it when I was talking about him. I am also attempting to tweet him this article to see if he was a response for us.
If you didnt hear today, Chad Ochocinco said at his press conference that he will be doing a Lambeau Leap next weekend if he scores a touchdown. He believes that Packer fans will accept him into the stands and hold him up there. Uhhh.....
I love Ocho, I think he is a hell of a ball player and I really do not think the stunts he pulls distracts his team. Like he has said, I haven't got a DUI or Ocho doesn't drink at all. If he just went out and did his job without the antics like Larry Fitzgerald, he would be herald as this leader of wide receivers in the NFL. Chad is beast out there and I laugh at most of his antics.
But I do warn him about heading into the Lambeau stands. All he should remember the time he headed into the Dawg Pound and got blessed with a beer shower. The other time would be when the Leap started to become popular, Robert Brooks then Green Bay Packer who headed into the stands of the Metrodome ending up with a broken jaw from a fan that punched him. Now I would like to think Green Bay is classier than that but you never know with fans.
I hope he does it just because it will add something to the game. Hopefully that's the Bengals and his only touchdown for the day.
-Charlie.
If you didnt hear today, Chad Ochocinco said at his press conference that he will be doing a Lambeau Leap next weekend if he scores a touchdown. He believes that Packer fans will accept him into the stands and hold him up there. Uhhh.....
I love Ocho, I think he is a hell of a ball player and I really do not think the stunts he pulls distracts his team. Like he has said, I haven't got a DUI or Ocho doesn't drink at all. If he just went out and did his job without the antics like Larry Fitzgerald, he would be herald as this leader of wide receivers in the NFL. Chad is beast out there and I laugh at most of his antics.
But I do warn him about heading into the Lambeau stands. All he should remember the time he headed into the Dawg Pound and got blessed with a beer shower. The other time would be when the Leap started to become popular, Robert Brooks then Green Bay Packer who headed into the stands of the Metrodome ending up with a broken jaw from a fan that punched him. Now I would like to think Green Bay is classier than that but you never know with fans.
I hope he does it just because it will add something to the game. Hopefully that's the Bengals and his only touchdown for the day.
-Charlie.
Anthony Smith Would Be Great Right Now....
I hate to be cynical about the Packers season already but this seems to be a repeat of 2008 season when it comes to injuries. The Pack lost Atari Bigby for a month with a sprained knee and now will have Aaron Rouse as the Strong Safety.
I think the Packers will be fine without Bigby but now this raises the question, Ted why didn't you cut Rouse and have Anthony Smith? I think it should be pointed out that Rouse had hamstring problems through all of a training camp having him missed most of it. Also Greg Bedard of the Journal Sentinel and others thought he might even get cut. Smith was a guy who yes talks some shit but Smith knew what he was doing in that 3-4 defense. He was throwing around big hits and playing good football.
In addition, you have to worry about Rouse's health. Not only his hamstring has created problems for him in the past. I will be on pins and needles for the whole month that Bigby is out for. I really dont want to have relieve 2008 where Charlie Peprah trying to cover wide receiver when he really does belong in the CFL.
-Charlie.
I think the Packers will be fine without Bigby but now this raises the question, Ted why didn't you cut Rouse and have Anthony Smith? I think it should be pointed out that Rouse had hamstring problems through all of a training camp having him missed most of it. Also Greg Bedard of the Journal Sentinel and others thought he might even get cut. Smith was a guy who yes talks some shit but Smith knew what he was doing in that 3-4 defense. He was throwing around big hits and playing good football.
In addition, you have to worry about Rouse's health. Not only his hamstring has created problems for him in the past. I will be on pins and needles for the whole month that Bigby is out for. I really dont want to have relieve 2008 where Charlie Peprah trying to cover wide receiver when he really does belong in the CFL.
-Charlie.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Brewers...Brewers....Brewers...
I will be completely honest with you. I haven't watched much Brewer baseball since the St. Louis Cardinals road series last week. The excitement of the Green Bay Packers and the NFL in general is much more intriguing than the Milwaukee Brewers failures.
Last night wasn't any better as I went to check the box score. The Crew gets a 5-4 lead in the fifth and then they blow up in the sixth inning leading to 10-5 game to the hated Chicago Cubs. In addition, they walked twelve batters and they hit three batters. Everybody, the Milwaukee Brewers!!! I really do not know how this could have happened? You really want to blame someone for the Brewers looking worst than most of the guys on Tool Academy.
You cannot go back and say we should still have Ned Yost as manager because in my opinion, I believe that Prince Fielder wouldn't be a Brewer today. It seemed like Prince/Ned didn't really get along all that well and once Fielder had that 50 HR season, he just went through the motions with Yost as manager.
I also have a tough time saying that Dale Sveum should have kept the job in the first place. He had no experience managing a ball club and somewhat you have to worry about that. Now I think he has done a fine job as a hitting coach despite what some might think since the Brewers numbers are drastically inflated by Braun and Fielder.
The #1 biggest mistake of the off-season was promoting Bill Castro. Its like telling a guy at General Motors who works on the assembly line for 40 years that he is now a senior executive due to his time with the company. Castro should have never gotten the job, he was adequate as the Bullpen Coach. Keep him there.
The other group I would like to fall blame on to is the players. Not Ryan Braun or Fielder, they both had years they should be proud of. But guys like Bill Hall and JJ Hardy maybe even throw Corey Hart in there yet he was up-down all year. Hardy was supposed to catalyst to this team but I said in the beginning of the year, "He needs to be consistent." That never happened and oh yeah, he never went on that two week hot streak.
I could go on about things wrong with the Brewers including starting pitching but I will lay my guns to rest with this final statement. This off season is the most critical one there has been in Brewer history. This will define whether we can hang with the big boys or not.
-Charlie.
Last night wasn't any better as I went to check the box score. The Crew gets a 5-4 lead in the fifth and then they blow up in the sixth inning leading to 10-5 game to the hated Chicago Cubs. In addition, they walked twelve batters and they hit three batters. Everybody, the Milwaukee Brewers!!! I really do not know how this could have happened? You really want to blame someone for the Brewers looking worst than most of the guys on Tool Academy.
You cannot go back and say we should still have Ned Yost as manager because in my opinion, I believe that Prince Fielder wouldn't be a Brewer today. It seemed like Prince/Ned didn't really get along all that well and once Fielder had that 50 HR season, he just went through the motions with Yost as manager.
I also have a tough time saying that Dale Sveum should have kept the job in the first place. He had no experience managing a ball club and somewhat you have to worry about that. Now I think he has done a fine job as a hitting coach despite what some might think since the Brewers numbers are drastically inflated by Braun and Fielder.
The #1 biggest mistake of the off-season was promoting Bill Castro. Its like telling a guy at General Motors who works on the assembly line for 40 years that he is now a senior executive due to his time with the company. Castro should have never gotten the job, he was adequate as the Bullpen Coach. Keep him there.
The other group I would like to fall blame on to is the players. Not Ryan Braun or Fielder, they both had years they should be proud of. But guys like Bill Hall and JJ Hardy maybe even throw Corey Hart in there yet he was up-down all year. Hardy was supposed to catalyst to this team but I said in the beginning of the year, "He needs to be consistent." That never happened and oh yeah, he never went on that two week hot streak.
I could go on about things wrong with the Brewers including starting pitching but I will lay my guns to rest with this final statement. This off season is the most critical one there has been in Brewer history. This will define whether we can hang with the big boys or not.
-Charlie.
Week One Wrap-Up: Crazier Than Kanye
Basically this is going to be my weekly wrap-up on Monday Night/Tuesday Morning for all of you and the main focus will be on the Green Bay Packers yet I will give a bunch of quick hitters about all the games that were significant. Quick opinion on Kanye West... Yes he is an asshole but haven't we known that for years since his rise to popularity. Also he was doing pulls out of a Cognac bottle therefore people do dumb shit when they are drunk. Now on to the NFL...
Oh my, what a weekend it was and we will start where it matters the Green Bay Packers who were playing their arch-rivals the Chicago Bears. Every Bears fan was trash-talking this whole summer about Jay Cutler and the future of their franchise.. blah blah blah. How about we talk about the Packer defense that took the ball away four times from Cutler? Okay. They looked awesome sending pressure from everywhere and you could tell that Cutler was flustered (see Clay Matthews punking him). Minus Atari Bigby's injury (sprained knee), I cannot find one concern about the defense. They played magnificent.
The offense side was rattled by the new look Bears defense who were very good until losing Brian Urlacher (more to come). Also the offense plan seemed weird at times throwing long balls at times not needed and relying on the run too much. Thats the end of my rant though because when its all said and done Aaron Rodgers hit Greg Jennings deep for the game-winning score. I also think the Pack need to reconsider Allen Barbre at Right Tackle, give it another game because Adewale Ogunleye is one of the best so maybe its makes him stronger who knows.
Finally, I really like that Aaron Rodgers won the game for the Packers. As my roommates and I all agreed no one can complain about A-Rod not being clutch or Mike McCarthy's play calling late in the game. I hope all the fans became believers last night.
Quick Thoughts on the rest of the NFL...
-I dont care what my roommate Brett says.... Jake Delhomme is now in the twilight of his career and I think he is lasting only one/two more games as a starter. Panthers will end up 8-8 at best.
-Donovon McNabb injury will hurt for one week or so which I really dont think hurts them. In addition, it has nothing to do with his arm.
-Bears fans it could be a long year when you had Super Bowl in your eyes. Losing Brian Urlacher for the season is like losing Tom Brady yet there is no Matt Cassel in Chi-City.
-Great Monday Night Football games today. Buffalo once again chokes which is the story of their lives but I was impressed with their young o-line/Fred Jackson. Tom Brady and the young defense should be fine. The team who had the biggest impact on me was Oakland who were the best I have seen them in many years. They might surprised a couple teams, we will see.
-Very impressed with San Francisco, New York Giants Defense, Dallas Offense.
-Charlie.
Oh my, what a weekend it was and we will start where it matters the Green Bay Packers who were playing their arch-rivals the Chicago Bears. Every Bears fan was trash-talking this whole summer about Jay Cutler and the future of their franchise.. blah blah blah. How about we talk about the Packer defense that took the ball away four times from Cutler? Okay. They looked awesome sending pressure from everywhere and you could tell that Cutler was flustered (see Clay Matthews punking him). Minus Atari Bigby's injury (sprained knee), I cannot find one concern about the defense. They played magnificent.
The offense side was rattled by the new look Bears defense who were very good until losing Brian Urlacher (more to come). Also the offense plan seemed weird at times throwing long balls at times not needed and relying on the run too much. Thats the end of my rant though because when its all said and done Aaron Rodgers hit Greg Jennings deep for the game-winning score. I also think the Pack need to reconsider Allen Barbre at Right Tackle, give it another game because Adewale Ogunleye is one of the best so maybe its makes him stronger who knows.
Finally, I really like that Aaron Rodgers won the game for the Packers. As my roommates and I all agreed no one can complain about A-Rod not being clutch or Mike McCarthy's play calling late in the game. I hope all the fans became believers last night.
Quick Thoughts on the rest of the NFL...
-I dont care what my roommate Brett says.... Jake Delhomme is now in the twilight of his career and I think he is lasting only one/two more games as a starter. Panthers will end up 8-8 at best.
-Donovon McNabb injury will hurt for one week or so which I really dont think hurts them. In addition, it has nothing to do with his arm.
-Bears fans it could be a long year when you had Super Bowl in your eyes. Losing Brian Urlacher for the season is like losing Tom Brady yet there is no Matt Cassel in Chi-City.
-Great Monday Night Football games today. Buffalo once again chokes which is the story of their lives but I was impressed with their young o-line/Fred Jackson. Tom Brady and the young defense should be fine. The team who had the biggest impact on me was Oakland who were the best I have seen them in many years. They might surprised a couple teams, we will see.
-Very impressed with San Francisco, New York Giants Defense, Dallas Offense.
-Charlie.
Monday, September 14, 2009
The Year of the Frosh QB?
I could say that overall in terms of sports plus my own fun this could have been a top ten weekend of my life. One of the things we did learn on Saturday is that maybe freshman quarterbacks can get done for big time programs.
In the afternoon as I was napping from the day of drinking and cliff jumping, Michigan was in a complete dog fight with the then number 18th team in the nation Notre Dame. It seemed like the Fighting Irish had full control of the game but that would be proven wrong in the fourth quarter with the Wolverines freshman quarterback Tate Forcier dominating down the stretch. He was facing blitzes up the middle like none other and was handling it like he was a senior. Forcier seems to be the perfect player for Rich Rodriguez's system. The juke move that sprung him for a touchdown was another great play. Any of you who was looking forward to another bad Michigan year, you are going have to look forward to another year.
The other game featured two top teams in USC-Ohio State and no one really knew what they were getting. A lot of players from last year's game were not there and the Trojans had a freshman quarterback in Matt Barkley heading to the Horseshoe. He can say whatever he wants but Barkley appeared rattled throughout most of the game. Although when it mattered the most, he guided his team down the field for a game-winning touchdown. When you see an 18-19 year old kid do that on the biggest stage of the night, you have to wonder what else Barkley has in him?
-Charlie.
In the afternoon as I was napping from the day of drinking and cliff jumping, Michigan was in a complete dog fight with the then number 18th team in the nation Notre Dame. It seemed like the Fighting Irish had full control of the game but that would be proven wrong in the fourth quarter with the Wolverines freshman quarterback Tate Forcier dominating down the stretch. He was facing blitzes up the middle like none other and was handling it like he was a senior. Forcier seems to be the perfect player for Rich Rodriguez's system. The juke move that sprung him for a touchdown was another great play. Any of you who was looking forward to another bad Michigan year, you are going have to look forward to another year.
The other game featured two top teams in USC-Ohio State and no one really knew what they were getting. A lot of players from last year's game were not there and the Trojans had a freshman quarterback in Matt Barkley heading to the Horseshoe. He can say whatever he wants but Barkley appeared rattled throughout most of the game. Although when it mattered the most, he guided his team down the field for a game-winning touchdown. When you see an 18-19 year old kid do that on the biggest stage of the night, you have to wonder what else Barkley has in him?
-Charlie.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
NFL Picks: Week 1: Where Blogger Cant Saved
I was going to do the full thing plus thoughts on Richard Seymour but I want to get crunk so I am just giving you the one game tonight. Also I apologize if there are short but I already did them so I dont feel like explaining it again.
Tennessee Titans at Pittsburgh Steelers- I think the Titans have a chance to be the first team in 10 years to beat last year Super Bowl team in Week 1 but they are going to have pressure Big Ben like last year. Also they are going to have to find away for Kerry Collins to hit a couple deep balls to open the run. I doubt that happens and I think a key turnover sways it to the Steelers. PITT 24-17
Jacksonville at Indianapolis- The Colts have had many problems with the Jaguars before both at home/away but they are playing a team whose best player is banged up plus a pretty shotty defense. Peyton shouldn't have any problems. IND 31-10
Detroit at New Orleans- Does the Lions have some hope for the streak to end? Nope. It should be tough for Matthew Stafford's first game and the Saints will just destroy that defense including Drew Brees giving his fantasy fans huge leads. NO 38-14
Dallas at Tampa Bay- People are big on the Cowboys this year which they are most years but like Emmitt Smith, I am not sold. I think Dallas should win this game with how bad the Bucs could be missing their offensive coordinator. DAL 23-13
Philadelphia at Carolina- Another team that I was pretty high on. I think the Eagles are a team to be reckoned with and Donovan McNabb has been known for slow starts in the past. I do not see it happening here with their defense shutting down the run. PHI 24-9
Kansas City at Baltimore- The Chiefs haven't got off to a good start this year with dealing their top passing threat, then getting rid of their offensive coordinator, and finally knowing if they are going to have Matt Cassel this week. Also they are going up against a top notch defense, not good. BALT 35-7
New York Jets at Houston- This year's sexy pick in the Texans with all of their players growing up. But they are going up against in my opinion a top notch defense for game number one. I think Mark Sanchez should be fine but he will have some mistakes. Expect this to be a close one. HOU 21-17
Miami at Atlanta- The Dolphins were a shocker last year just like the Falcons were. I think Atlanta has a chance to stay on top with Matt Ryan progressing very quickly plus adding Tony Gonzalez. I think this has a chance to be the best game this weekend. ATL 28-24
Denver at Cincinnati- I couldn't believe that my main man Bill Simmons picked the Broncos to the playoffs. I really cannot see it with all the problems especially in this one. The Bengals aren't great but they have a healthy quarterback who is better than Orton when healthy. CIN 35-23
Minnesota at Cleveland- Favre heads to the Dog Pound where I am hoping he gets booed to the high heavens. It will be an interesting game to watch to see how the offense is run and I think Brady Quinn will be able to drive down the field a couple times although not enough. MIN 31-17
Washington at New York Giants- I think the Giants have a chance to be good once again and Eli Manning needs to find a receiver to throw to because when he is at his best, he needs that guy. I do not believe that the Redskins will have enough offense to keep up with the G-Men. NYG 27-10
San Francisco at Arizona- The 49ers are a team without their top pick which must suck and they really do not have an defense either. They should however be able to run the ball against Arizona. The Cardinals will be better at the beginning of the year then in November so they will get done Sunday. ARI 38-28
St. Louis at Seattle- Once again, I get to talk about the NFC West yes! The Seahawks should be revamped and be way better than last year. I think the Rams are going to be better than last year but not enough against the Hawks. SEA 24-7
Chicago at Green Bay- It's probably the biggest game of the weekend and I couldn't be more excited for 7:20 on Sunday night. I think it has a chance to either be defense stalwart or a shootout. I actually could see Jay Cutler struggling with their new offense set up too. Packers win by a late Mason Crosby FG. GB 27-24
Buffalo at New England- The Bills are once again off to a rousing start with Terrell Owens complaining about the offense and also they have no coordinator on offense. The Patriots offense looks like they could be as unstoppable as their undefeated year. Should be a breeze. NE 41-17
San Diego at Oakland- How great would it be if Richard Seymour just came in from the sky with Al Davis and give the Black Hole a big "JUST WIN BABY!" But in all seriousness, this shouldn't be a problem for the offense of the Chargers. SD 45-17
Enjoy it.
Tennessee Titans at Pittsburgh Steelers- I think the Titans have a chance to be the first team in 10 years to beat last year Super Bowl team in Week 1 but they are going to have pressure Big Ben like last year. Also they are going to have to find away for Kerry Collins to hit a couple deep balls to open the run. I doubt that happens and I think a key turnover sways it to the Steelers. PITT 24-17
Jacksonville at Indianapolis- The Colts have had many problems with the Jaguars before both at home/away but they are playing a team whose best player is banged up plus a pretty shotty defense. Peyton shouldn't have any problems. IND 31-10
Detroit at New Orleans- Does the Lions have some hope for the streak to end? Nope. It should be tough for Matthew Stafford's first game and the Saints will just destroy that defense including Drew Brees giving his fantasy fans huge leads. NO 38-14
Dallas at Tampa Bay- People are big on the Cowboys this year which they are most years but like Emmitt Smith, I am not sold. I think Dallas should win this game with how bad the Bucs could be missing their offensive coordinator. DAL 23-13
Philadelphia at Carolina- Another team that I was pretty high on. I think the Eagles are a team to be reckoned with and Donovan McNabb has been known for slow starts in the past. I do not see it happening here with their defense shutting down the run. PHI 24-9
Kansas City at Baltimore- The Chiefs haven't got off to a good start this year with dealing their top passing threat, then getting rid of their offensive coordinator, and finally knowing if they are going to have Matt Cassel this week. Also they are going up against a top notch defense, not good. BALT 35-7
New York Jets at Houston- This year's sexy pick in the Texans with all of their players growing up. But they are going up against in my opinion a top notch defense for game number one. I think Mark Sanchez should be fine but he will have some mistakes. Expect this to be a close one. HOU 21-17
Miami at Atlanta- The Dolphins were a shocker last year just like the Falcons were. I think Atlanta has a chance to stay on top with Matt Ryan progressing very quickly plus adding Tony Gonzalez. I think this has a chance to be the best game this weekend. ATL 28-24
Denver at Cincinnati- I couldn't believe that my main man Bill Simmons picked the Broncos to the playoffs. I really cannot see it with all the problems especially in this one. The Bengals aren't great but they have a healthy quarterback who is better than Orton when healthy. CIN 35-23
Minnesota at Cleveland- Favre heads to the Dog Pound where I am hoping he gets booed to the high heavens. It will be an interesting game to watch to see how the offense is run and I think Brady Quinn will be able to drive down the field a couple times although not enough. MIN 31-17
Washington at New York Giants- I think the Giants have a chance to be good once again and Eli Manning needs to find a receiver to throw to because when he is at his best, he needs that guy. I do not believe that the Redskins will have enough offense to keep up with the G-Men. NYG 27-10
San Francisco at Arizona- The 49ers are a team without their top pick which must suck and they really do not have an defense either. They should however be able to run the ball against Arizona. The Cardinals will be better at the beginning of the year then in November so they will get done Sunday. ARI 38-28
St. Louis at Seattle- Once again, I get to talk about the NFC West yes! The Seahawks should be revamped and be way better than last year. I think the Rams are going to be better than last year but not enough against the Hawks. SEA 24-7
Chicago at Green Bay- It's probably the biggest game of the weekend and I couldn't be more excited for 7:20 on Sunday night. I think it has a chance to either be defense stalwart or a shootout. I actually could see Jay Cutler struggling with their new offense set up too. Packers win by a late Mason Crosby FG. GB 27-24
Buffalo at New England- The Bills are once again off to a rousing start with Terrell Owens complaining about the offense and also they have no coordinator on offense. The Patriots offense looks like they could be as unstoppable as their undefeated year. Should be a breeze. NE 41-17
San Diego at Oakland- How great would it be if Richard Seymour just came in from the sky with Al Davis and give the Black Hole a big "JUST WIN BABY!" But in all seriousness, this shouldn't be a problem for the offense of the Chargers. SD 45-17
Enjoy it.
Top 25 Picks: Week 2- I am Wearing Brett-a-Palooza on My Eye Black
If you are curious what Brett-a-Palooza is well its basically three nights/two dayish of drinking in honor of my roommate Brett who turns 21 at midnight tonight. Obviously the Eye-Black was reference to Terrelle Pryor who put "Mike Vick" on his eye black like former USC Trojan Reggie Bush put 6-1-9 on his. I personally have no problem with Pryor supporting childhood idol but what I have a problem with is his statement from the NY Daily News "Not everybody is a perfect person in this world. I mean, everyone does ... kills people, murders people, steals from you, steals from me." Err... You cannot say everybody kills, thats just not smart whatsoever. Anyways on to the picks.......
1. Florida-vs. Troy- Yawn... another roll-over win for Tebow and the boys who looked like they are picking off where they left off. UF 56-6
2. Texas-at Wyoming- Interesting to see the Longhorns on the road but this isnt a game that should worry their fans. Despite the excited crowd, there is no way the Cowboys win this one. UT 35-14
3. USC-at 8. Ohio State- The other real big game this weekend and this one could get ugly. Even with the whole non-believers thing and the fact Pete Carroll has struggled against running quarterbacks. All it will take is one turnover in the first half and this thing will get ugly. Also I dont the Buckeyes can stop anything on the defense side of the ball. USC 42-28
4. Alabama-vs. Florida Int'l- The Tide looked pretty impressive last weekend against the Hokies and I feel that I may have underestimated them. No problems this week. BAMA 45-9
5. Oklahoma St.-vs. Houston- Lets not forget about a possible letdown after the big win last week cementing them into the top teams. I think this game will be close til the fourth when Dez Bryant helps the Pokes pull away. OSU 41-27
7. Penn State-vs. Syracuse- The Orange's quarterback Greg Paulus got off to a pretty good start last Saturday against the Gophers. Too bad Penn State going to show him how the big boys play. PSU 38-14
8. Ohio State-SEE 3. USC
9. BYU-at Tulane- Chuck's Corner Upset Alert!! Look out for this game to be very close and down to the very end. You have to think the Cougars are going to come in a bit stary-eyed. They pull it out with a field goal. BYU 16-13
10. California-vs. Eastern Washington- This one will get really ugly and Jahvid Best may run for a 1000 in this game alone. CAL 62-3
11. LSU-vs. Vanderbilt- I thought about putting the Tigers on Alert again but first game in the Death Valley should be enough to inspire them. LSU 24-13
13. Oklahoma-vs. Idaho State- Landry Jones takes over the team with his moustache and all. They should be able to work many things out this week. OKLA 45-7
14. Virigina Tech-vs. Marshall- In the days of Chad Pennington and Randy Moss, this might have been a ball game but with the Hokies coming off a lost plus the Herd has sucked since that time, ugly. VT 42-10
15. Georgia Tech-vs. Clemson- The Yellow Jackets had a pretty big cakewalk to star the season off but I think that CJ Spiller and the Tigers could pull off the upset tonight. Tech wins by a field goal because of the better quarterback. GT 24-21
16. TCU-at Virigina- The ACC is about as bad as the AFC West in the NFL with two teams going down to FCS teams. The Cavaliers were one of those teams and now they play the Horned Frogs, rut roh. TCU 31-0
17. Utah-at San Jose St.- Well seeing as the third best team beat these Spartans by 53, I think the Utes will beat them by 35. UTAH 42-7
18. Notre Dame-at Michigan- This is the big match up to find out whose legit in these two classic powerhouses. I honestly think the Irish are going to flex their muscles on the offense end and the Wolverines do not have enough to compete with them on the offense side either. ND 31-17
19. North Carolina-at UConn- The Tar Heels got an easy go of it with a win against FCS team but now they face a sneaky Husky team on the road. I think this one will be close and high scoring with the better team prevailing. UNC 35-31
21. Georgia-vs. South Carolina- Chuck's Corner Upset Alert Part II I don't like the fact that Joe Cox their quarterback is pretty banged up and the fact their offense couldn't do much last weekend either with a good Gamecock D. The Ol' Ball Coach gets an upset. USC 13-10
22. Nebraska-vs. Arkansas St.- They need not to overlook the Wildcats with the big game against Va. Tech looming but this team isn't good. The run game will smother them. NEB 38-10
24. Kansas-at UTEP- Another Big 12 team makes a road trip and once again, it will not mean much at all. The Miners aren't very good and the Jayhawks' offense is unstoppable. KU 49-13
25. Missouri-vs. Bowling Green- The Tigers return after their ass kicking of rival Illinois this past weekend and they shouldn't have any issues dismantling the Falcons. MIZZOU 37-17
-Charlie.
1. Florida-vs. Troy- Yawn... another roll-over win for Tebow and the boys who looked like they are picking off where they left off. UF 56-6
2. Texas-at Wyoming- Interesting to see the Longhorns on the road but this isnt a game that should worry their fans. Despite the excited crowd, there is no way the Cowboys win this one. UT 35-14
3. USC-at 8. Ohio State- The other real big game this weekend and this one could get ugly. Even with the whole non-believers thing and the fact Pete Carroll has struggled against running quarterbacks. All it will take is one turnover in the first half and this thing will get ugly. Also I dont the Buckeyes can stop anything on the defense side of the ball. USC 42-28
4. Alabama-vs. Florida Int'l- The Tide looked pretty impressive last weekend against the Hokies and I feel that I may have underestimated them. No problems this week. BAMA 45-9
5. Oklahoma St.-vs. Houston- Lets not forget about a possible letdown after the big win last week cementing them into the top teams. I think this game will be close til the fourth when Dez Bryant helps the Pokes pull away. OSU 41-27
7. Penn State-vs. Syracuse- The Orange's quarterback Greg Paulus got off to a pretty good start last Saturday against the Gophers. Too bad Penn State going to show him how the big boys play. PSU 38-14
8. Ohio State-SEE 3. USC
9. BYU-at Tulane- Chuck's Corner Upset Alert!! Look out for this game to be very close and down to the very end. You have to think the Cougars are going to come in a bit stary-eyed. They pull it out with a field goal. BYU 16-13
10. California-vs. Eastern Washington- This one will get really ugly and Jahvid Best may run for a 1000 in this game alone. CAL 62-3
11. LSU-vs. Vanderbilt- I thought about putting the Tigers on Alert again but first game in the Death Valley should be enough to inspire them. LSU 24-13
13. Oklahoma-vs. Idaho State- Landry Jones takes over the team with his moustache and all. They should be able to work many things out this week. OKLA 45-7
14. Virigina Tech-vs. Marshall- In the days of Chad Pennington and Randy Moss, this might have been a ball game but with the Hokies coming off a lost plus the Herd has sucked since that time, ugly. VT 42-10
15. Georgia Tech-vs. Clemson- The Yellow Jackets had a pretty big cakewalk to star the season off but I think that CJ Spiller and the Tigers could pull off the upset tonight. Tech wins by a field goal because of the better quarterback. GT 24-21
16. TCU-at Virigina- The ACC is about as bad as the AFC West in the NFL with two teams going down to FCS teams. The Cavaliers were one of those teams and now they play the Horned Frogs, rut roh. TCU 31-0
17. Utah-at San Jose St.- Well seeing as the third best team beat these Spartans by 53, I think the Utes will beat them by 35. UTAH 42-7
18. Notre Dame-at Michigan- This is the big match up to find out whose legit in these two classic powerhouses. I honestly think the Irish are going to flex their muscles on the offense end and the Wolverines do not have enough to compete with them on the offense side either. ND 31-17
19. North Carolina-at UConn- The Tar Heels got an easy go of it with a win against FCS team but now they face a sneaky Husky team on the road. I think this one will be close and high scoring with the better team prevailing. UNC 35-31
21. Georgia-vs. South Carolina- Chuck's Corner Upset Alert Part II I don't like the fact that Joe Cox their quarterback is pretty banged up and the fact their offense couldn't do much last weekend either with a good Gamecock D. The Ol' Ball Coach gets an upset. USC 13-10
22. Nebraska-vs. Arkansas St.- They need not to overlook the Wildcats with the big game against Va. Tech looming but this team isn't good. The run game will smother them. NEB 38-10
24. Kansas-at UTEP- Another Big 12 team makes a road trip and once again, it will not mean much at all. The Miners aren't very good and the Jayhawks' offense is unstoppable. KU 49-13
25. Missouri-vs. Bowling Green- The Tigers return after their ass kicking of rival Illinois this past weekend and they shouldn't have any issues dismantling the Falcons. MIZZOU 37-17
-Charlie.
NFL Playoffs Predictions and a Super Bowl Winner
Heres how I see the rankings going by the end of the year....
NFC: 1. Philadelphia 2. Green Bay 3. New Orleans 4. Seattle 5. New York Giants 6. Minnesota I honestly see that happening with GB/Philly flip-flopping. I cannot see the Saints or the Seahawks pushing for the two top spots. I could see the two wild card poising a threat. The NFC is by far the tougher division this year. There are multiple teams who can be that sixth team as is the same for the division winners.
AFC: 1. San Diego 2 Pittsburgh 3. New England 4. Indianapolis 5. Baltimore 6. Tennessee I think the Chargers has a schedule as easy as Shawne Merriman's girlfriend and they almost have six wins sown up already. Also the Steelers/Ravens get to play those three teams too, trust me its not even fair. The AFC has the better top teams but they have nowhere near the parody.
Wildcard Weekend
(3) New Orleans beats (6) Minnesota- The end of Favre? Who really knows but it would dash the hype of Favre returning to Lambeau for the playoffs. Also Favre's body will be almost a corpse at this point therefore Adrian Peterson will not be able to do it all.
(5) New York Giants over (4) Seattle- I am not that impressed with the Hawks' its don't have a forty-year old running QB. They get a bit of home field advantage with playing far from NYC but the Giants D will be too good.
(3) New England beats (6) Tennessee- The Patriots have always been able to stop the run and that is the one thing the Titans need to win ball games. Also Tennessee doesn't have enough secondary to contain Brady.
(5) Baltimore over (4) Indianapolis- I think the Ravens have a chance to be a very good team this year and the Colts have enough to get them to the playoffs yet not enough to beat a team like Baltimore.
Divisional Round
(1) Philadelphia beats (5) NY Giants- Second straight year, this time at their crib. The Eagles should be able to pressure Eli Manning all day and the offense will have enough to carry them to another NFC Championship visit.
(2) Green Bay over (3) New Orleans- A dome team from the South coming to Lambeau in the dead of winter... rut roh. There is no Mike Vick on the Saints therefore we should win handily in Aaron Rodgers first playoff game.
(5) Baltimore beats (1) San Diego- We will see this game at the same venue and I could see whatever team loses first comes back in the playoffs to win. Anyways, I think the make-up of Baltimore spells disaster for the Chargers.
(2) Pittsburgh over (3) New England- I have trouble taking the Pats farther than this because their defense is a bunch of no-ones plus the Steelers bring back so damn much. Big Ben will prevail in this one.
Championship Games
(2) Green Bay beats (1) Philadelphia- This might be a homer pick but seriously, the Packers are clicking already (its only September!) They can get this done in the house of horrors known as Philly.
(2) Pittsburgh beats (5) Baltimore- Much of the same of last year, the Steelers will out physical the second-best physical team. Hopefully just another huge hit-fest.
Super Bowl
Pittsburgh beats Green Bay- I gotta do it. There is no way I could see the Masters of the 3-4 get outsmarted by the newly 3-4 beasts. I think it would take a big game from Willie Parker though to get it done.
Now on to the picks for both sides.
NFC: 1. Philadelphia 2. Green Bay 3. New Orleans 4. Seattle 5. New York Giants 6. Minnesota I honestly see that happening with GB/Philly flip-flopping. I cannot see the Saints or the Seahawks pushing for the two top spots. I could see the two wild card poising a threat. The NFC is by far the tougher division this year. There are multiple teams who can be that sixth team as is the same for the division winners.
AFC: 1. San Diego 2 Pittsburgh 3. New England 4. Indianapolis 5. Baltimore 6. Tennessee I think the Chargers has a schedule as easy as Shawne Merriman's girlfriend and they almost have six wins sown up already. Also the Steelers/Ravens get to play those three teams too, trust me its not even fair. The AFC has the better top teams but they have nowhere near the parody.
Wildcard Weekend
(3) New Orleans beats (6) Minnesota- The end of Favre? Who really knows but it would dash the hype of Favre returning to Lambeau for the playoffs. Also Favre's body will be almost a corpse at this point therefore Adrian Peterson will not be able to do it all.
(5) New York Giants over (4) Seattle- I am not that impressed with the Hawks' its don't have a forty-year old running QB. They get a bit of home field advantage with playing far from NYC but the Giants D will be too good.
(3) New England beats (6) Tennessee- The Patriots have always been able to stop the run and that is the one thing the Titans need to win ball games. Also Tennessee doesn't have enough secondary to contain Brady.
(5) Baltimore over (4) Indianapolis- I think the Ravens have a chance to be a very good team this year and the Colts have enough to get them to the playoffs yet not enough to beat a team like Baltimore.
Divisional Round
(1) Philadelphia beats (5) NY Giants- Second straight year, this time at their crib. The Eagles should be able to pressure Eli Manning all day and the offense will have enough to carry them to another NFC Championship visit.
(2) Green Bay over (3) New Orleans- A dome team from the South coming to Lambeau in the dead of winter... rut roh. There is no Mike Vick on the Saints therefore we should win handily in Aaron Rodgers first playoff game.
(5) Baltimore beats (1) San Diego- We will see this game at the same venue and I could see whatever team loses first comes back in the playoffs to win. Anyways, I think the make-up of Baltimore spells disaster for the Chargers.
(2) Pittsburgh over (3) New England- I have trouble taking the Pats farther than this because their defense is a bunch of no-ones plus the Steelers bring back so damn much. Big Ben will prevail in this one.
Championship Games
(2) Green Bay beats (1) Philadelphia- This might be a homer pick but seriously, the Packers are clicking already (its only September!) They can get this done in the house of horrors known as Philly.
(2) Pittsburgh beats (5) Baltimore- Much of the same of last year, the Steelers will out physical the second-best physical team. Hopefully just another huge hit-fest.
Super Bowl
Pittsburgh beats Green Bay- I gotta do it. There is no way I could see the Masters of the 3-4 get outsmarted by the newly 3-4 beasts. I think it would take a big game from Willie Parker though to get it done.
Now on to the picks for both sides.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
NFL Preview: AFC South/AFC West
And after this one we are done leading to a couple things that happened today then picks for both NCAA/NFL hopefully on time.
AFC South
1. Indianapolis Colts: Key Players- QB Peyton Manning WR Reggie Wayne RB Joesph Addai Key Games- vs. Seattle (10/4) at/vs Tennessee (10/11, 12/6) vs/at Houston (11/8, 11/29) vs. New England (11/15) at Baltimore (11/22) Outlook- My roommate and die hard Manning fan Brett is worried about their O-Line but I think they will once again reclaim the AFC South. Although due to the hard divison, they will finish in the fourth spot in the AFC.
2. Tennessee Titans: Key Players- RB Chris Johnson CB Courtland Finnegan LB Keith Bulluck Key Games- at Pittsburgh (9/10) vs/at Houston (9/20, 11/23) vs/at Indianapolis (10/11, 12/6) at New England (10/18) vs. San Diego (12/25) at Seattle (1/3) Outlook- The big question is will Kerry Collins relive the year he had in 08? I think he can with the combination of Johnson/LenDale White I think will be too much for most teams. They beat out Houston for the sixth spot.
3. Houston Texans: Key Players- WR Andre Johnson QB Matt Schaub LB DeMeco Ryans Key Games- at/vs Tennessee (9/20, 11/23) at/vs Indianapolis (11/8, 11/29) vs. Seattle (12/13) vs. New England (1/3) Outlook- Honestly they could have a chance sneaking in with all the weak teams they play this year but they will fall just short of the Titans.
4. Jacksonville Jaguars: Key Players- RB Maurice Jones-Drew QB David Garrard DT John Henderson Key Games- at/vs Indianapolis (9/13, 12/17 ) vs/at Tennessee (10/4, 11/1) at New England (12/27) Outlook- Its not off to a good start with MJD questionable this week but they have no support through the air. Jack Del Rio will be gone after this one.
AFC West
1. San Diego Chargers: Key Players- QB Phillip Rivers RB LaDainen Tomilinson LB Shawne Tequi.. er Merriman Key Games- vs. Baltimore (9/20) at Pittsburgh (10/4) at NY Giants (11/8) vs. Philadelphia (11/15) at Tennessee (12/25) Outlook- I would like to remind everyone that it took an 8-8 team to win this division. The Chargers should coast and the first four games will tell us a lot about the Bolts.
2. Kansas City Chiefs: Key Players- QB Matt Cassell WR Dwayne Bowe LB Mike Vrabel Key Games- at Baltimore (9/13) at Philadelphia (9/27) vs. NY Giants (10/4) vs/at San Diego (10/25, 11/29) vs. Pittsburgh (11/22) Outlook- This is like picking the smartest Playboy bunny because you know all of those girls are complete dumb shits just like how the rest of the West is awful.
3. Oakland Raiders (AKA the Pratts): Key Players- QB JaMarcus Russell CB Nnamdi Asomugha DE Richard Seymour (oh wait.... shit, great move Al!) RB Darren McFadden Key Games- vs/at San Diego (9/14, 11/1) at NY Giants (10/11) vs. Philadelphia (10/18) at Pittsburgh (12/6) vs. Baltimore Outlook: I think they will be better than Denver but just by a bit. I hope they enjoy picking once again in the top 10. Also I wonder if Al will freeze when teams goes to the Steel City in December.
4. Denver Broncos: Key Players- QB Kyle Orton, WR Brandon Marshall, RB Knowshon Moreno Key Games- vs. New England (10/11) vs/at San Diego (10/19 ) at Baltimore (11/1) vs. Pittsburgh (11/9) vs. NY Giants (11/26) at Indianapolis (12/13) at Philadelphia (12/27) Outlook- With everything that has happened and that is continuing to happen, isn't inevitable with that schedule Denver will be drafting top five? I think so.
-Charlie.
AFC South
1. Indianapolis Colts: Key Players- QB Peyton Manning WR Reggie Wayne RB Joesph Addai Key Games- vs. Seattle (10/4) at/vs Tennessee (10/11, 12/6) vs/at Houston (11/8, 11/29) vs. New England (11/15) at Baltimore (11/22) Outlook- My roommate and die hard Manning fan Brett is worried about their O-Line but I think they will once again reclaim the AFC South. Although due to the hard divison, they will finish in the fourth spot in the AFC.
2. Tennessee Titans: Key Players- RB Chris Johnson CB Courtland Finnegan LB Keith Bulluck Key Games- at Pittsburgh (9/10) vs/at Houston (9/20, 11/23) vs/at Indianapolis (10/11, 12/6) at New England (10/18) vs. San Diego (12/25) at Seattle (1/3) Outlook- The big question is will Kerry Collins relive the year he had in 08? I think he can with the combination of Johnson/LenDale White I think will be too much for most teams. They beat out Houston for the sixth spot.
3. Houston Texans: Key Players- WR Andre Johnson QB Matt Schaub LB DeMeco Ryans Key Games- at/vs Tennessee (9/20, 11/23) at/vs Indianapolis (11/8, 11/29) vs. Seattle (12/13) vs. New England (1/3) Outlook- Honestly they could have a chance sneaking in with all the weak teams they play this year but they will fall just short of the Titans.
4. Jacksonville Jaguars: Key Players- RB Maurice Jones-Drew QB David Garrard DT John Henderson Key Games- at/vs Indianapolis (9/13, 12/17 ) vs/at Tennessee (10/4, 11/1) at New England (12/27) Outlook- Its not off to a good start with MJD questionable this week but they have no support through the air. Jack Del Rio will be gone after this one.
AFC West
1. San Diego Chargers: Key Players- QB Phillip Rivers RB LaDainen Tomilinson LB Shawne Tequi.. er Merriman Key Games- vs. Baltimore (9/20) at Pittsburgh (10/4) at NY Giants (11/8) vs. Philadelphia (11/15) at Tennessee (12/25) Outlook- I would like to remind everyone that it took an 8-8 team to win this division. The Chargers should coast and the first four games will tell us a lot about the Bolts.
2. Kansas City Chiefs: Key Players- QB Matt Cassell WR Dwayne Bowe LB Mike Vrabel Key Games- at Baltimore (9/13) at Philadelphia (9/27) vs. NY Giants (10/4) vs/at San Diego (10/25, 11/29) vs. Pittsburgh (11/22) Outlook- This is like picking the smartest Playboy bunny because you know all of those girls are complete dumb shits just like how the rest of the West is awful.
3. Oakland Raiders (AKA the Pratts): Key Players- QB JaMarcus Russell CB Nnamdi Asomugha DE Richard Seymour (oh wait.... shit, great move Al!) RB Darren McFadden Key Games- vs/at San Diego (9/14, 11/1) at NY Giants (10/11) vs. Philadelphia (10/18) at Pittsburgh (12/6) vs. Baltimore Outlook: I think they will be better than Denver but just by a bit. I hope they enjoy picking once again in the top 10. Also I wonder if Al will freeze when teams goes to the Steel City in December.
4. Denver Broncos: Key Players- QB Kyle Orton, WR Brandon Marshall, RB Knowshon Moreno Key Games- vs. New England (10/11) vs/at San Diego (10/19 ) at Baltimore (11/1) vs. Pittsburgh (11/9) vs. NY Giants (11/26) at Indianapolis (12/13) at Philadelphia (12/27) Outlook- With everything that has happened and that is continuing to happen, isn't inevitable with that schedule Denver will be drafting top five? I think so.
-Charlie.
NFL Preview: AFC East/AFC North
Now we move on to the AFC who is proving to be more top heavy than Pamala Anderson in her prime. They have about four to five really good teams but no real parody at all inside the league. Anyways here we go...
AFC East
1. New England Patriots- Key Players: QB Tom Brady WR Randy Moss LB Jared Mayo Key Games- at/vs NY Jets (9/20, 11/22) vs. Baltimore (10/4) vs. Tennessee (10/18) vs/at Miami (11/8, 12/6) at Indianapolis (11/15) at New Orleans (11/30) Outlook- No reason for me not to believe that they will be the best in the East with Brady back. Their defense is a bit shaky but their offense can handle that.
2. Miami Dolphins- Key Players: RB Ronnie Brown, LB Channing Crowder, LB Joey Porter Key Games: at Indianapolis (9/21) vs/at NY Jets (10/12, 11/1) vs. New Orleans (10/25) at/vs New England (11/8, 12/6) at Tennessee (12/20) vs. Pittsburgh (1/3) Outlook- The Phins have a reasonable schedule and you wonder how good Chad Pennington can be this year after a magical season ago. They will fall short of the playoffs but finish second.
3. New York Jets- Key Players: RB Thomas Jones LB David Harris QB Mark Sanchez Key Games- vs./at New England (9/20 11/22) at Tennessee (9/27) at New Orleans (10/4) at/vs. Miami (10/12, 11/1) at Indianapolis (12/27) Outlook- I think Sanchez couldnt have asked for a worst start to his career with all the tough games at the beginning but I think they go on a big run possibly pushing a Wild Card spot late.
4. Buffalo Bills- Key Players: RB Marshawn Lynch WR Terrell Owens S Donte Whitner Key Games- at/vs New England (9/14, 12/20) vs. New Orleans (9/27) at Tennessee (11/15) vs. Indianapolis (1/3) Outlook- I think it will be a rough year for TO and the boys with him already not liking the offense plus dealing without Lynch for 3 weeks.
AFC East
1. New England Patriots- Key Players: QB Tom Brady WR Randy Moss LB Jared Mayo Key Games- at/vs NY Jets (9/20, 11/22) vs. Baltimore (10/4) vs. Tennessee (10/18) vs/at Miami (11/8, 12/6) at Indianapolis (11/15) at New Orleans (11/30) Outlook- No reason for me not to believe that they will be the best in the East with Brady back. Their defense is a bit shaky but their offense can handle that.
2. Miami Dolphins- Key Players: RB Ronnie Brown, LB Channing Crowder, LB Joey Porter Key Games: at Indianapolis (9/21) vs/at NY Jets (10/12, 11/1) vs. New Orleans (10/25) at/vs New England (11/8, 12/6) at Tennessee (12/20) vs. Pittsburgh (1/3) Outlook- The Phins have a reasonable schedule and you wonder how good Chad Pennington can be this year after a magical season ago. They will fall short of the playoffs but finish second.
3. New York Jets- Key Players: RB Thomas Jones LB David Harris QB Mark Sanchez Key Games- vs./at New England (9/20 11/22) at Tennessee (9/27) at New Orleans (10/4) at/vs. Miami (10/12, 11/1) at Indianapolis (12/27) Outlook- I think Sanchez couldnt have asked for a worst start to his career with all the tough games at the beginning but I think they go on a big run possibly pushing a Wild Card spot late.
4. Buffalo Bills- Key Players: RB Marshawn Lynch WR Terrell Owens S Donte Whitner Key Games- at/vs New England (9/14, 12/20) vs. New Orleans (9/27) at Tennessee (11/15) vs. Indianapolis (1/3) Outlook- I think it will be a rough year for TO and the boys with him already not liking the offense plus dealing without Lynch for 3 weeks.
(AFC North)1. Pittsburgh Steelers Key Players- QB Big Ben (saving space people!), WR Santonio Holmes, LB James Harriosn Key Games-vs. Tennessee (9/10) vs. San Diego (10/4) vs. Minnesota (10/25) at/vs Baltimore (11/22, 12/27) vs. Green Bay (12/20) Outlook- Wow, talk about an easy schedule, they will have home-field in the playoffs no doubt about it plus unreal media attention. Still a class act team. North
2. Baltimore Ravens: Key Players- S Ed Reed LB Terrell Suggs QB Joe Flacco Key Games- at San Diego (9/20) at New England (10/4) at Minnesota (10/18) vs. Indianapolis (11/15) vs/at Baltimore (11/22, 12/27) at Green Bay (12/7) Outlook- The first Wild Card winner of the AFC and their defense is going to tough as nails again. Flacco has a chance to be much better too.
3. Cincinnati Bengals: Key Players- QB Carson Palmer WR Chad OchoCinco WR Laveraneus Coles Key Games- at Green Bay (9/20) vs/at Pittsburgh (9/27, 11/15) at/vs Baltimore (10/11 11/8) at Minnesota (12/13) at San Diego (12/20) Outlook- This is my roommate E's surprise team of the year, I dont see it. Very tough schedule plus their defense isnt that special.
4. Cleveland Browns: Key Players- QB Brady Quinn WR Braylon Edwards DT Shaun Rogers Key Games- vs. Minnesota (9/13) at/vs Baltimore (9/27, 11/16) at/vs Pittsburgh (10/25, 12/10) vs. San Diego (12/6) Outlook- It is going to an ugly year for the Browns even though I enjoy Quinn a lot, he has no defense help.
-Charlie.
NFL Preview: NFC South/West
On to the next part, I will try to get the AFC done by Thursday. A lot of homework on my hands to keep me busy so stay tuned.
NFC South
1. New Orleans Saints: Key Players- QB Drew Brees RB Reggie Bush WR Marcus Colston Key Games- at Philadelphia (9/13) vs. NY Jets (10/4) vs. NY Giants (10/18) at Miami (10/25) vs/at Atlanta (11/2, 12/13) New England (11/30) vs. Dallas (12/19) Outlook- Their offense is probably one of the best in the league and I do worry some about their hard opening schedule. I think they can get past that and slide into the fourth spot in the playoffs.
2. Atlanta Falcons: Key Players- QB Matt Ryan, WR Roddy White, RB Michael Turner Key Games- vs. Miami (9/13) at New England (9/27) vs. Chicago (10/18) at Dallas (10/25) at/vs New Orleans (11/2, 12/13) at NY Giants (11/22) Outlook: There is a part of me that hates the Falcons schedule but Ryan seems to be doing all the right things in the Hotlanta so we shall see. They will fight for the final Wild Card spot.
3. Carolina Panthers: Key Players: RB DeAngelo Williams WR Steve Smith LB Jon Beason Key Games- vs. Philadelphia (9/13) at Atlanta (9/20 11/15) at Dallas (9/28) at Arizona (11/1) at/vs. New Orleans (11/8, 1/3) at New England (12/13) vs. Minnesota (12/20) at NY Giants (12/27) Outlook- Very challenging schedule and I am convinced that Jake Delhomme is as close to washed up as you can get. Carolina win around 7-8 games.
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Key Players: DE Gaines Adams WR Antonio Bryant CB Ronde Barber Key Games: vs. NY Giants (9/27) at Philadelphia (10/11) vs. New England (10/25) vs. Green Bay (11/8) vs/at New Orleans (11/22, 12/27) at/vs Atlanta (11/29/1/3) Outlook- I wasnt a big fan of the Bucs deciding to scrap their offensive coordinator and I believe they will have many problems on the offense side of the ball.
NFC West
1. Seattle Seahawks: Key Players- QB Matt Hassleback WR T.J. Houz (saving space) LB Lofa Tatupu Key Games-vs. Chicago (9/27) at Indianapolis (10/4) vs/at Arizona (10/18, 11/15) at Minnesota (11/22) at Green Bay (12/27) vs. Tennessee (1/3) Outlook: The NFC West is really a two horse race and I think the Seahawks have the edge. I like the overall team if they stay healthy, they will take the fourth spot.
2. Arizona Cardinals: Key Players- WR Larry Fitzgerald QB Kurt Warner Wr Anquan Bolden Key Games- vs. Indianapolis (9/27) at/vs Seattle (10/18 11/15) at NY Giants (10/25) at Tennessee (11/29) vs. Minnesota (12/6) vs. Green Bay (1/3) Outlook- The Cards may contend for the division but that will be it. Tough road games to NY and Nashville loom and you have to worry about a near forty-year old QB.
3.St. Louis Rams: Key Players- RB Stephen Jackson QB Marc Bulger WR Donnie Avery Key Games- at/vs Seattle (9/13, 11/22) vs. Green Bay (9/27) vs. Minnesota (10/11) vs. Indianapolis (10/25) vs. New Orleans (11/15) vs. Arizona (11/22) at Tennessee (12/13) Outlook- The Rams are a bunch of nobodies but they have a favorable schedule facing most of their challenging opponents at home.
4. San Francisco 49ers: Key Players- RB Frank Gore LB Patrick Willis CB Nate Clements Key Games- at/vs Arizona (9/13 12/14 ) vs. Seattle (9/20 12/6) at Minnesota (9/27) at Indianapolis (11/1) vs. Tennessee (11/8) at Green Bay (11/22) at Philadelphia (12/20) Outlook- Could be a real ugly year for the Niners with a tough as nails schedule. They could really benefit from Michael Crabtree if he ever signs but they are looking at a top ten pick again.
-Charlie
NFC South
1. New Orleans Saints: Key Players- QB Drew Brees RB Reggie Bush WR Marcus Colston Key Games- at Philadelphia (9/13) vs. NY Jets (10/4) vs. NY Giants (10/18) at Miami (10/25) vs/at Atlanta (11/2, 12/13) New England (11/30) vs. Dallas (12/19) Outlook- Their offense is probably one of the best in the league and I do worry some about their hard opening schedule. I think they can get past that and slide into the fourth spot in the playoffs.
2. Atlanta Falcons: Key Players- QB Matt Ryan, WR Roddy White, RB Michael Turner Key Games- vs. Miami (9/13) at New England (9/27) vs. Chicago (10/18) at Dallas (10/25) at/vs New Orleans (11/2, 12/13) at NY Giants (11/22) Outlook: There is a part of me that hates the Falcons schedule but Ryan seems to be doing all the right things in the Hotlanta so we shall see. They will fight for the final Wild Card spot.
3. Carolina Panthers: Key Players: RB DeAngelo Williams WR Steve Smith LB Jon Beason Key Games- vs. Philadelphia (9/13) at Atlanta (9/20 11/15) at Dallas (9/28) at Arizona (11/1) at/vs. New Orleans (11/8, 1/3) at New England (12/13) vs. Minnesota (12/20) at NY Giants (12/27) Outlook- Very challenging schedule and I am convinced that Jake Delhomme is as close to washed up as you can get. Carolina win around 7-8 games.
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Key Players: DE Gaines Adams WR Antonio Bryant CB Ronde Barber Key Games: vs. NY Giants (9/27) at Philadelphia (10/11) vs. New England (10/25) vs. Green Bay (11/8) vs/at New Orleans (11/22, 12/27) at/vs Atlanta (11/29/1/3) Outlook- I wasnt a big fan of the Bucs deciding to scrap their offensive coordinator and I believe they will have many problems on the offense side of the ball.
NFC West
1. Seattle Seahawks: Key Players- QB Matt Hassleback WR T.J. Houz (saving space) LB Lofa Tatupu Key Games-vs. Chicago (9/27) at Indianapolis (10/4) vs/at Arizona (10/18, 11/15) at Minnesota (11/22) at Green Bay (12/27) vs. Tennessee (1/3) Outlook: The NFC West is really a two horse race and I think the Seahawks have the edge. I like the overall team if they stay healthy, they will take the fourth spot.
2. Arizona Cardinals: Key Players- WR Larry Fitzgerald QB Kurt Warner Wr Anquan Bolden Key Games- vs. Indianapolis (9/27) at/vs Seattle (10/18 11/15) at NY Giants (10/25) at Tennessee (11/29) vs. Minnesota (12/6) vs. Green Bay (1/3) Outlook- The Cards may contend for the division but that will be it. Tough road games to NY and Nashville loom and you have to worry about a near forty-year old QB.
3.St. Louis Rams: Key Players- RB Stephen Jackson QB Marc Bulger WR Donnie Avery Key Games- at/vs Seattle (9/13, 11/22) vs. Green Bay (9/27) vs. Minnesota (10/11) vs. Indianapolis (10/25) vs. New Orleans (11/15) vs. Arizona (11/22) at Tennessee (12/13) Outlook- The Rams are a bunch of nobodies but they have a favorable schedule facing most of their challenging opponents at home.
4. San Francisco 49ers: Key Players- RB Frank Gore LB Patrick Willis CB Nate Clements Key Games- at/vs Arizona (9/13 12/14 ) vs. Seattle (9/20 12/6) at Minnesota (9/27) at Indianapolis (11/1) vs. Tennessee (11/8) at Green Bay (11/22) at Philadelphia (12/20) Outlook- Could be a real ugly year for the Niners with a tough as nails schedule. They could really benefit from Michael Crabtree if he ever signs but they are looking at a top ten pick again.
-Charlie
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
NFL Preview: NFC North/East
We are going to split up the NFL Preview into four parts with a look at key games, key players, outlook. Then an overall playoff predication's. They will be ranked by where they will finish in the division.
NFC North
1. Green Bay Packers: Key Players- QB Aaron Rodgers, WR Greg Jennings, LB Nick Barnett Key Games-vs./at Chicago (9/13, 12/13) at/vs Minnesota (10/5, 11/1) vs. Dallas (11/15) at Pittsburgh (12/20) at Arizona (1/3) Outlook: I think they win the division with a record of 13-3 or 12-4. They need to stay healthy and if that happens, they will be a dominate force. Charles Woodson/A-Rod are going to have huge years.
2. Minnesota Vikings: Key Players- QB Brett Favre, RB Adrian Peterson DT Kevin Williams Key Games-vs/at Green Bay (10/5, 11/1) vs. Baltimore (10/18) at Pittsburgh (10/25) vs/at Chicago (11/29, 12/28), at Arizona (12/6), vs. New York Giants (01/03) Outlook: They will win one of the Wild Card spots because they do have an easy schedule and I really think if Favre takes a back seat to let Peterson be in control, they can be successful.
3. Chicago Bears: Key Players- QB Jay Cutler, LB Brian Urlacher, RB Matt Forte Key Games- at/vs Green Bay (9/13, 12/13), vs. Pittsburgh (9/20) at Atlanta (10/18) vs. Arizona (11/08), vs. Philadelphia (11/22) at/vs Minnesota (11/29, 12/28) at Baltimore (12/20) Outlook: They could make a push for the Wild Card and I think that Monday Night game against the Vikes may decide it. I think Cutler will have problems with his receivers all year.
4. Detroit Lions: Key Players- QB Matthew Stafford, RB Kevin Smith LB Ernie Sims Key Games- at New Orleans (9/13), vs/at Minnesota (9/20, 11/15) at/vs Green Bay (10/18, 11/26) at/vs Chicago (10/3, 1/3) Outlook: Well I dont believe they will go win less but with a rookie quarterback, I doubt that they win more than four games. Their defense is nothing special at all.
NFC East
1. Philadelphia Eagles: Key Players- QB Donovan McNabb RB Brian Westbrook CB Ashante Samuel Key Games: vs. New Orleans (9/2o) vs/at NY Giants (11/1, 12/13) vs/at Dallas (11/8, 1/3) at San Diego (11/15) at Chicago (11/22) at Atlanta (12/6) Outlook- I dont believe any of the nonsense that McNabb will be bothered by Michael Vick and also look out for RB LeShon McCoy could have a huge year.
2. New York Giants: Key Players- QB Eli Manning, DE Osi Umenyiora, DE Justin Tuck Key Games: at/vs. Dallas (9/20, 12/6) vs. Arizona (10/25) at/vs Philadelphia (11/1, 12/13) vs. San Diego (11/8) vs. Atlanta (11/22) at Minnesota (1/3) Outlook- The other Wild Card team, they have the best D-Line in the NFL right now and I think Manning will be fine without Plaxico Burress.
3. Dallas Cowboys: Key Players- QB Tony Romo, RB Marion Barber/Felix Jones OLB DeMarcus Ware Key Games: vs./at NY Giants (9/20, 12/6) vs. Atlanta (10/25) at/vs Philadelphia (11/8, 1/3) at Green Bay (11/15) vs. San Diego (12/13) at New Orleans (12/19) Outlook- Could be the end of the road for Wade Phillips, I dont see this team better than third with a tough as nails schedule and a lot of question marks all around.
4. Washington Redskins: Key Players- DT Albert Hanyesworth, S LaRon Landry, RB Clinton Portis Key Games- at/vs NY Giants (9/13, 12/21) vs/at Philadelphia (10/26, 11/29) at/vs Dallas (11/22, 12/27) Outlook- Some people feel the Skins may be the surprise team of the NFC with their defense but I have a hard time seeing their offense being able to compete with the competition in this division.
On to the NFC South/West
-Charlie.
NFC North
1. Green Bay Packers: Key Players- QB Aaron Rodgers, WR Greg Jennings, LB Nick Barnett Key Games-vs./at Chicago (9/13, 12/13) at/vs Minnesota (10/5, 11/1) vs. Dallas (11/15) at Pittsburgh (12/20) at Arizona (1/3) Outlook: I think they win the division with a record of 13-3 or 12-4. They need to stay healthy and if that happens, they will be a dominate force. Charles Woodson/A-Rod are going to have huge years.
2. Minnesota Vikings: Key Players- QB Brett Favre, RB Adrian Peterson DT Kevin Williams Key Games-vs/at Green Bay (10/5, 11/1) vs. Baltimore (10/18) at Pittsburgh (10/25) vs/at Chicago (11/29, 12/28), at Arizona (12/6), vs. New York Giants (01/03) Outlook: They will win one of the Wild Card spots because they do have an easy schedule and I really think if Favre takes a back seat to let Peterson be in control, they can be successful.
3. Chicago Bears: Key Players- QB Jay Cutler, LB Brian Urlacher, RB Matt Forte Key Games- at/vs Green Bay (9/13, 12/13), vs. Pittsburgh (9/20) at Atlanta (10/18) vs. Arizona (11/08), vs. Philadelphia (11/22) at/vs Minnesota (11/29, 12/28) at Baltimore (12/20) Outlook: They could make a push for the Wild Card and I think that Monday Night game against the Vikes may decide it. I think Cutler will have problems with his receivers all year.
4. Detroit Lions: Key Players- QB Matthew Stafford, RB Kevin Smith LB Ernie Sims Key Games- at New Orleans (9/13), vs/at Minnesota (9/20, 11/15) at/vs Green Bay (10/18, 11/26) at/vs Chicago (10/3, 1/3) Outlook: Well I dont believe they will go win less but with a rookie quarterback, I doubt that they win more than four games. Their defense is nothing special at all.
NFC East
1. Philadelphia Eagles: Key Players- QB Donovan McNabb RB Brian Westbrook CB Ashante Samuel Key Games: vs. New Orleans (9/2o) vs/at NY Giants (11/1, 12/13) vs/at Dallas (11/8, 1/3) at San Diego (11/15) at Chicago (11/22) at Atlanta (12/6) Outlook- I dont believe any of the nonsense that McNabb will be bothered by Michael Vick and also look out for RB LeShon McCoy could have a huge year.
2. New York Giants: Key Players- QB Eli Manning, DE Osi Umenyiora, DE Justin Tuck Key Games: at/vs. Dallas (9/20, 12/6) vs. Arizona (10/25) at/vs Philadelphia (11/1, 12/13) vs. San Diego (11/8) vs. Atlanta (11/22) at Minnesota (1/3) Outlook- The other Wild Card team, they have the best D-Line in the NFL right now and I think Manning will be fine without Plaxico Burress.
3. Dallas Cowboys: Key Players- QB Tony Romo, RB Marion Barber/Felix Jones OLB DeMarcus Ware Key Games: vs./at NY Giants (9/20, 12/6) vs. Atlanta (10/25) at/vs Philadelphia (11/8, 1/3) at Green Bay (11/15) vs. San Diego (12/13) at New Orleans (12/19) Outlook- Could be the end of the road for Wade Phillips, I dont see this team better than third with a tough as nails schedule and a lot of question marks all around.
4. Washington Redskins: Key Players- DT Albert Hanyesworth, S LaRon Landry, RB Clinton Portis Key Games- at/vs NY Giants (9/13, 12/21) vs/at Philadelphia (10/26, 11/29) at/vs Dallas (11/22, 12/27) Outlook- Some people feel the Skins may be the surprise team of the NFC with their defense but I have a hard time seeing their offense being able to compete with the competition in this division.
On to the NFC South/West
-Charlie.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Shawne Merriman Roided Out Again...
We can file this one under "What I learned from Twitter." I saw that San Diego Chargers' Linebacker Shawne Merriman was the top trending topic on Twitter today and for those who dont know how the website works, "trending topic" is whatever most people on the site are talking about. I figured he just did some dumb promotion shit for himself because he's fairly involved with Twitter but I was wrong.
It appears last night that Merriman choked out his girlfriend who just happens to be Tila Tequila. Yes the one that looks liek Gizmo from the Germlins but all kidding aside this was the last thing the San Diego Chargers want/need right now heading into the season next week. Now he has claimed that she was drunk and he was preventing her from driving. Well that is thoughtful of Merriman but then tell me why she had to go to the hospital?
Unless she was just hammered, there would have been no reason for Tequila to end up there. I personally believe that Merriman should at least be suspended four games for this but I know that unless he is guilty of all this it will not mean shit to Roger Goodell. Why you ask? Well disgruntled Denver Bronco Receiver Brandon Marshall had a couple domestic disputes and it only landed him a one-game suspension, go figure.
-Charlie
It appears last night that Merriman choked out his girlfriend who just happens to be Tila Tequila. Yes the one that looks liek Gizmo from the Germlins but all kidding aside this was the last thing the San Diego Chargers want/need right now heading into the season next week. Now he has claimed that she was drunk and he was preventing her from driving. Well that is thoughtful of Merriman but then tell me why she had to go to the hospital?
Unless she was just hammered, there would have been no reason for Tequila to end up there. I personally believe that Merriman should at least be suspended four games for this but I know that unless he is guilty of all this it will not mean shit to Roger Goodell. Why you ask? Well disgruntled Denver Bronco Receiver Brandon Marshall had a couple domestic disputes and it only landed him a one-game suspension, go figure.
-Charlie
Rut Roh Oklahoma
I dont even have to start my first paragraph with a rut roh for the Oklahoma Sooners because we all know that they are in deep trouble right now. They were apart of the biggest shocker of college football this Saturday as they fell to #20 BYU by a point as they lost their Heisman quarterback Sam Bradford to a sprained AC Joint on his throwing shoulder. Two words for any OU fans: Not good.
My roommate E was relishing in the moment of Bradford going down (not that he condones injury) because in his opinion, he had "Matt Leinart Disease" which I am now trademarking for the blog giving E credit every time I use it. Bradford had to come back to try to win a National Championship which I respect and love about him (same with Colt McCoy) although now it looks real bad with this injury usually leaving someone out for 2-4 weeks.
The Sooners probably feel that playing in new Cowboy Stadium is a complete curse and they play another one there against Texas in a month. As Floyd Money Merriweather said "Step your game up!" but seriously things couldn't have gotten off to a worse start for the Boomer Sooner. They can take care of Idaho State without Bradford but Tulsa is not a complete pushover. Oklahoma needs him ready for Miami on the third of October.
Also you have to give props to BYU. I know I have been extra hard on the Mountain West throughout the past couple of years but now with this win plus Utah defeat of Alabama last year, you have to respect their conference. They have some good teams that I think can play with the big boys once a year. I am not saying they should all join the Pac-10 but they deserve more respect than the nation is giving them. BYU has a very tough road ahead of them playing most of their challenging games on the road this year but who knows they might find themselves in the BCS.
-Charlie.
My roommate E was relishing in the moment of Bradford going down (not that he condones injury) because in his opinion, he had "Matt Leinart Disease" which I am now trademarking for the blog giving E credit every time I use it. Bradford had to come back to try to win a National Championship which I respect and love about him (same with Colt McCoy) although now it looks real bad with this injury usually leaving someone out for 2-4 weeks.
The Sooners probably feel that playing in new Cowboy Stadium is a complete curse and they play another one there against Texas in a month. As Floyd Money Merriweather said "Step your game up!" but seriously things couldn't have gotten off to a worse start for the Boomer Sooner. They can take care of Idaho State without Bradford but Tulsa is not a complete pushover. Oklahoma needs him ready for Miami on the third of October.
Also you have to give props to BYU. I know I have been extra hard on the Mountain West throughout the past couple of years but now with this win plus Utah defeat of Alabama last year, you have to respect their conference. They have some good teams that I think can play with the big boys once a year. I am not saying they should all join the Pac-10 but they deserve more respect than the nation is giving them. BYU has a very tough road ahead of them playing most of their challenging games on the road this year but who knows they might find themselves in the BCS.
-Charlie.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Top 25 Picks: Week 1 Where I Wont Sucker Punch Seet
My friend Seth may give me a few insights but this is a pretty easy week. Once we get to the conference play thats when it gets though. Quick thoughts on LaGarrete Blount, he should have been suspended but I really think it should have only been half of a season because he was provoked after a tough loss. Granted, it was completely uncalled for but the lineman from Boise should have got suspended too.
1. Florida-vs. Charleston Southern- I thought about betting on this +62.5 spread but didnt. Anyways Tim Tebow probably puts them away middle second quarter at the latest. UF 56-10
2. Texas-vs. Louisiana-Monroe- Any team that has a - in their name is usually a 1-AA, D2, D3 team. Monroe is none of those but they really do suck. Colt McCoy-Jordan Shipley will make it rain out there. UT 38-3
3. Oklahoma-vs. 20 BYU- This is being played at new Cowboys Stadium so you wonder which punter will hit the scoreboard and I honestly think the Sooners will not blow out the Cougars with how good Max Hall is. I think this game will be close and high scoring. US 45-35
4. USC-vs. San Jose State- This will probably be a blowout but I think the game is worth watching to see how true freshman Matt Barkley will do in his first game. Like I said before shouldn't be a problem for Coach Pete Carroll. USC 31-6
5. Alabama- vs. Virginia Tech- Lets remember last year Bama came into Atlanta and knocked out Clemson right out of the Top 25. Granted, I do not see that happening this year but it will be a close game. I think that the experience that Tyrod Tyler brings gets the Hokies the win. VT 20-17
6. Ohio State-vs. Navy- Well the Naval Academy has been good in the last couple of years but they are no match for Ohio State. They will put up some points on the young offense but Terrelle Pryor will be way too much. OSU 35-13
7. Virginia Tech- SEE 5. Alabama
8. Mississippi-at Memphis (Sunday)- "Chucks Corner Upset Alert Part II" I think the Rebels might buy into some of the hype that they have around them and I really believe that the Tigers like the fact they got Ole Miss at home. Tough battle but Ole Miss pulls it out. OLE MISS 27-20
9. Penn State-vs. Akron- Joe Paterno is still around and he has a great chance to be successful this year. I think the Lions will have no problems with the Zips who haven't been relevant in God knows whenever. PSU 42-10
9. Oklahoma State-vs. 13. Georgia- I think this is the best game of the weekend. I think the Cowboys could be the surprise team outside of the Top 5 to contend for the National Championship. I think the Cowboys will be able to put up enough points to make up for their shotty defense. OSU 31-24
11. LSU-at Washington- "Chucks Corner Upset Alert" This is one of two upset alerts but I think the Tigers could have some problems heading to Washington. They always play well at home plus the Tigers' quarterback situation is a bit sketchy. They win by a Field Goal. LSU 24-21
12. California-vs. Maryland- The Golden Bears have been fairly successful when a team from east of the Mississippi comes to play in Berkley. I dont see this being a very close game with the Terps having a ton of questions on defense. CAL 34-20
13. Georgia- SEE 9. Oklahoma State
15. Georgia Tech-vs. Jacksonville St.- Another 1-AA versus a Top 25, that should get ugly again. Jonathan Dwyer should have no problem running amok against Jacksonville St. GT 45-3
18. Florida State-vs. Miami- Can we see another "Wide Right"? There have been some very physical games in the past and the Canes have one of the toughest starts in the nation. They need this win bad but Christian Ponder helps the Noles pull it out. FSU 17-13
20. BYU-SEE 3. Oklahoma
21. North Carolina- vs. Citadel- Well once again this will not be a game and I wont be surprised if they let one of the basketball players carry the ball in the fourth quarter. UNC 55-13
22. Iowa-vs. Northern Iowa- Shouldn't be a problem at all for the Hawkeyes with all the talent that they have. IOWA 52-10
23. Notre Dame-vs. Nevada- The Fightin' Irish begin Cupcake 09 with the Wolfpack who arent even as powerful as the former Black/Red of WCW. They have so much back on the offense end that they really wont miss a beat. ND 35-17
24. Nebraska-vs. Florida Atlantic- The Cornhuskers are back in the Top 25 and face an Owl team that hasn't been all that great in the past couple of years. The Huskers will take care of business as usual. NEB 49-14
25. Kansas-vs. Northern Colorado- The one thing we know about Northern Colorado is that they had a punter stab another one. Other than that, we know nothing. This should be ugly. KU 58-3
Enjoy the Labor Day Weekend
1. Florida-vs. Charleston Southern- I thought about betting on this +62.5 spread but didnt. Anyways Tim Tebow probably puts them away middle second quarter at the latest. UF 56-10
2. Texas-vs. Louisiana-Monroe- Any team that has a - in their name is usually a 1-AA, D2, D3 team. Monroe is none of those but they really do suck. Colt McCoy-Jordan Shipley will make it rain out there. UT 38-3
3. Oklahoma-vs. 20 BYU- This is being played at new Cowboys Stadium so you wonder which punter will hit the scoreboard and I honestly think the Sooners will not blow out the Cougars with how good Max Hall is. I think this game will be close and high scoring. US 45-35
4. USC-vs. San Jose State- This will probably be a blowout but I think the game is worth watching to see how true freshman Matt Barkley will do in his first game. Like I said before shouldn't be a problem for Coach Pete Carroll. USC 31-6
5. Alabama- vs. Virginia Tech- Lets remember last year Bama came into Atlanta and knocked out Clemson right out of the Top 25. Granted, I do not see that happening this year but it will be a close game. I think that the experience that Tyrod Tyler brings gets the Hokies the win. VT 20-17
6. Ohio State-vs. Navy- Well the Naval Academy has been good in the last couple of years but they are no match for Ohio State. They will put up some points on the young offense but Terrelle Pryor will be way too much. OSU 35-13
7. Virginia Tech- SEE 5. Alabama
8. Mississippi-at Memphis (Sunday)- "Chucks Corner Upset Alert Part II" I think the Rebels might buy into some of the hype that they have around them and I really believe that the Tigers like the fact they got Ole Miss at home. Tough battle but Ole Miss pulls it out. OLE MISS 27-20
9. Penn State-vs. Akron- Joe Paterno is still around and he has a great chance to be successful this year. I think the Lions will have no problems with the Zips who haven't been relevant in God knows whenever. PSU 42-10
9. Oklahoma State-vs. 13. Georgia- I think this is the best game of the weekend. I think the Cowboys could be the surprise team outside of the Top 5 to contend for the National Championship. I think the Cowboys will be able to put up enough points to make up for their shotty defense. OSU 31-24
11. LSU-at Washington- "Chucks Corner Upset Alert" This is one of two upset alerts but I think the Tigers could have some problems heading to Washington. They always play well at home plus the Tigers' quarterback situation is a bit sketchy. They win by a Field Goal. LSU 24-21
12. California-vs. Maryland- The Golden Bears have been fairly successful when a team from east of the Mississippi comes to play in Berkley. I dont see this being a very close game with the Terps having a ton of questions on defense. CAL 34-20
13. Georgia- SEE 9. Oklahoma State
15. Georgia Tech-vs. Jacksonville St.- Another 1-AA versus a Top 25, that should get ugly again. Jonathan Dwyer should have no problem running amok against Jacksonville St. GT 45-3
18. Florida State-vs. Miami- Can we see another "Wide Right"? There have been some very physical games in the past and the Canes have one of the toughest starts in the nation. They need this win bad but Christian Ponder helps the Noles pull it out. FSU 17-13
20. BYU-SEE 3. Oklahoma
21. North Carolina- vs. Citadel- Well once again this will not be a game and I wont be surprised if they let one of the basketball players carry the ball in the fourth quarter. UNC 55-13
22. Iowa-vs. Northern Iowa- Shouldn't be a problem at all for the Hawkeyes with all the talent that they have. IOWA 52-10
23. Notre Dame-vs. Nevada- The Fightin' Irish begin Cupcake 09 with the Wolfpack who arent even as powerful as the former Black/Red of WCW. They have so much back on the offense end that they really wont miss a beat. ND 35-17
24. Nebraska-vs. Florida Atlantic- The Cornhuskers are back in the Top 25 and face an Owl team that hasn't been all that great in the past couple of years. The Huskers will take care of business as usual. NEB 49-14
25. Kansas-vs. Northern Colorado- The one thing we know about Northern Colorado is that they had a punter stab another one. Other than that, we know nothing. This should be ugly. KU 58-3
Enjoy the Labor Day Weekend
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Your College Football Preview
I wish I could give you a full rundown of each conference but thanks to my drinking habits I have not had time for it. This will have three key players, big games, and where they will end up. Also I will just the AP Top 25 just like last year until the BCS comes out. I will say this if I do not make my picks in time that the Fighting Mitch Pratts (Oregon Ducks) will beat Bosie State on the Smurf Turf Thursday Night. HERE WE GO!!!
1. Florida Gators: KEY PLAYERS: QB Tim Tebow (AKA God), ILB Brandon Spikes, S Major Wright KEY GAMES: vs. Tennessee (9/19), at #11 LSU (10/10), vs. Georgia (10/31), vs. #18 Florida State (11/28). OUTLOOK: Say hello to another National Championship for the Gators who face a pretty favorable SEC schedule avoiding Alabma and Ole Miss. They must get by Death Valley in Week Five. 12-0 Nat'l Champs.
2. Texas Longhorns: KEY PLAYERS: QB Colt McCoy, WR Jordan Shipley, WLB Roddrick Muckelroy. KEY GAMES: vs. Texas Tech (9/19), vs. 3. Oklahoma (10/17), at 9. Oklahoma State (10/31), at Texas A&M (11/26). OUTLOOK: I have a BCS bid for the Longhorns but I really do believe that OU will get it done in the Red River Shootout if not, a big game at Stillwater looms as well.
3. Oklahoma Sooners: KEY PLAYERS: QB Sam Bradford, TE Jermaine Greshman (hurt), RB DeMarco Murray. KEY GAMES: vs. #20 BYU (9/5), vs. 2. Texas (10/17), at 24. Nebraska (11/07), vs. #9. Oklahoma St. (11/28) OUTLOOK: I also have a BCS bid for the Sooners, it might be one of those years where a one loss team gets in. I have a tough time seeing Boomer Sooner going untouch in the Big 12.
4. USC Trojans: KEY PLAYERS: S Taylor Mays, RB Joe McKnight, WR Daimen Williams. KEY GAMES: at Ohio State (9/12), at #12 California (10/3), at #23 Notre Dame (10/17), at #16 Oregon (10/31) OUTLOOK: I trust that Pete Carroll knows what he is doing with quarterbacks but for the Trojans having four tough road games in a row... eh. I dont know if they can escaped that. They will lose one if not two this year .
5. Alabama Crimson Tide: KEY PLAYERS: DT Terrence Cody, WR Julio Jones, RB Mark Ingram. KEY GAMES: vs. #7 Virgina Tech (9/5), at #8 Mississippi (10/10), vs. #11 LSU (11/07) OUTLOOK: The Tide have a pretty favorable schedule and they could find themselves in a rematch with Florida in the SEC Championship game. Also Cody is a no doubt about it the best run stopper in the NCAA.
6. Ohio State Buckeyes: KEY PLAYERS: QB Terrelle Pryor, DE Thaddeus Gibson, CB Kurt Coleman KEY GAMES: vs. #4 USC (9/12), at #9 Penn State (11/07), vs. #22 Iowa (11/14), at Michigan (11/21). OUTLOOK: I honestly was ready to put the Buckeyes in the Nat'l Championship game but honestly their defense will need some time to get it together. Also the Nittany Lions/Hawkeyes back-to-back is tough.
7. Virginia Tech Hokies: KEY PLAYERS: QB Tyrod Tyler, RB Darren Evans, CB Stephan Virgil. KEY GAMES: vs. #5 Alabama (9/5), vs. #24 Nebraska (9/19), at 15. Georgia Tech (10/17), vs. #21 North Carolina (10/29). OUTLOOK: Easily the toughest non-conference schedule in the Top 25 and if they could power through that they could be in the top five. The ACC is one of the lesser divisions in the BCS too.
8. Mississippi Rebels: KEY PLAYERS: QB Jevan Snead, RB Dexter McCluster, DL Ted Laurent KEY GAMES: vs. #5 Alabama (10/10), vs. #11 LSU. OUTLOOK: They have a couple other road blocks that aren't top twenty-five but who knows they could get past these two teams both in Oxford setting a rematch with the Gators.
9. Penn State Nittany Lions: KEY PLAYERS: QB Daryll Clark, RB Evan Royster, LB Sean Lee. KEY GAMES: vs. #22 Iowa (9/26), vs. #6 Ohio State (11/07) OUTLOOK: I like the Nittany Lions schedule, they have a couple games that could result in an upset like last year but if they keep their head straight, they should head back to the BCS.
10. Oklahoma State Cowboys: KEY PLAYERS: QB Zac Robinson, WR Dez Bryant, RB Kendall Hunter KEY GAMES: vs. Georgia (9/5), vs. #2 Texas (10/31), at #3 Oklahoma (11/28) OUTLOOK: This year's Texas Tech? I think so, I will be watching intently to see how they do against Georgia tomorrow which will be the tell-tale sign of if the Cowboys are for real.
11. LSU Tigers: KEY PLAYERS: RB Charles Scott, WR Brandon LaFell, S Chad Jones: KEY GAMES: at #13 Georgia (10/03), vs. #1 Florida (10/10), at #5 Alabama (11/07), at #8 Mississippi (11/21) OUTLOOK: Pretty challenging schedule for the Tigers who really don't have a quarterback and I wouldn't be surprised if they are barely in the Top 25 by the end of the year.
12. California Golden Bears: KEY PLAYERS: RB Jahvid Best, DE Tyson Alualu, DE Cameron Jordan KEY GAMES: at #16 Oregon (9/26) vs. #4. USC (10/03) OUTLOOK: They could have a successful year with Best being the top running back in the nation and they have great D-Line as well. I see second in the Pac-10.
13. Georgia Bulldogs: KEY PLAYERS: WR A.J. Green, S Reshard Jones, LB Rennie Curren KEY GAMES: at #9 Oklahoma State (9/5) vs. #11 LSU (10/03) vs. #1 Florida (10/31) at #15 Georgia Tech (11/28) OUTLOOK: Who knows what in store for this team, Joe Cox has done some nice things when Stafford went down in years past and they have a some solid defense. Should be an interesting year.
14. Boise State Broncos: I wont give them the full run down because I think we saw last night that they are a very good team that should run the table in the WAC with a possible BCS birth at the end of the year. You never know which Bronco team you are going to get with Head Coach Chris Peterson's trickery.
15. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets: KEY PLAYERS: RB Jonathan Dwyer, QB Josh Nesbit, S Morgan Burnett KEY GAMES: at #18 Florida State (10/10) vs. #7 Virgina Tech (10/17) vs #13 Georgia (11/28) OUTLOOK: Despite their old school offense, they could have a huge year but I am concerned about the back-to-back against FSU/VT though.
16. Oregon Ducks: Once again, no need to give them the full treatment because I think they might not be the team we expected. Also with their returning 1000 yd. rusher LaGarrete Blout may get kick off the team, not good news at all for the Fightin' Mitch Pratts.
17. TCU Horned Frogs: KEY PLAYERS: QB Andy Dalton, DE Jerry Hughes, WR Jimmy Young KEY GAMES:at #20 BYU (10/24) vs. #19 Utah (11/14) OUTLOOK: They have a couple tough games and a pretty young team, I doubt that TCU has the same success as last year.
18. Florida State Seminoles: KEY PLAYERS: QB Christian Ponder, LB Dekoda Watson, CB Patrick Robinson KEY GAMES: vs. Miami (9/7) at #20 BYU (9/19) vs #15 Georgia Tech (10/10) at #21 North Carolina (10/22) at #1 Florida (11/28) OUTLOOK: The Noles have a tough schedule with a lot of road games but if they could blow out the Cougars in two weeks that would be a big sign.
19. Utah Utes: Once again, they played on Thursday and now have a fifteen game winning streak. That will likely come to the end when dealing with Ducks, Colorado, TCU, and BYU all on the road this year doesnt look good for the Utes.
20. Brigham Young Cougars: KEY PLAYERS: QB Max Hall, TE Dennis Pitta, DE Jan Jorgenson KEY GAMES: at #3 Oklahoma (09/05), vs. #18 Florida State (09/19), vs.#17 TCU (10/24), vs. #19 Utah (11/28) OUTLOOK: Hall is a beast but the true question is can they win one of their two non-conference games? If that happens, the Cougars may be the real deal.
21. North Carolina Tar Heels: KEY PLAYERS: QB T.J. Yates, CB Kendric Burney, RB Shaun Draughan KEY GAMES: at #15 Georgia Tech (9/26) vs. #18 Florida State (10/22) at #7 Viriginia Tech (10/29) OUTLOOK: Butch Davis knows how to flat out win and Yates is the real deal. The Tar Heels could possibly win the ACC this year.
22. Iowa Hawkeyes: KEY PLAYERS: QB Ricky Stanzi, WR Derell Johnson-Koulianos, LB Pat Angerer KEY GAMES: at #9 Penn State (9/26), at #6 Ohio State (11/14) OUTLOOK: I would love to say for my buddy JS that they will be in the BCS but I just cant see them winning in Happy Valley and the Horseshoe. They will finish third in the Big Ten though.
23. Notre Dame Fightin' Irish: KEY PLAYERS: QB Jimmy Clausen, WR Golden Tate, RB Armando Allen KEY GAMES: vs. #4 USC (10/17) vs. Boston College (10/24) OUTLOOK: Probably the easiest schedule the Golden Domers have had in years and if they dont get to a New Years Day bowl then its bye bye to Charlie Weis.
24. Nebraska Cornhuskers: KEY PLAYERS: RB Roy Helu Jr. TE Mark McNeill, DT Ndamukong Sun KEY GAMES: at #7 Viriginia Tech (9/19), vs. #3 Oklahoma, at #25 Kansas (11/14) OUTLOOK: I think we will find out where the Cornhuskers stand after the Virigina Tech game and the Sooner game should be a big-time showdown.
25. Kansas Jayhawks: KEY PLAYERS: QB Todd Reesing, WR Dezmon Briscoe, S Darrell Stuckey KEY GAMES: vs #3. Oklahoma (10/24) vs. 24 Nebraska (11/14), at #2 Texas (11/21) OUTLOOK: I was amazed to see Reesing still playing and Briscoe is a hell of player too. Although they have too many tough games to be a contender in the Big 12 North.
Other teams to watch: Oregon State, Michigan State, Illinois, Texas Tech, and West Virigina
If I got something wrong here well its been a long week and now you get picks.
-Charlie.
1. Florida Gators: KEY PLAYERS: QB Tim Tebow (AKA God), ILB Brandon Spikes, S Major Wright KEY GAMES: vs. Tennessee (9/19), at #11 LSU (10/10), vs. Georgia (10/31), vs. #18 Florida State (11/28). OUTLOOK: Say hello to another National Championship for the Gators who face a pretty favorable SEC schedule avoiding Alabma and Ole Miss. They must get by Death Valley in Week Five. 12-0 Nat'l Champs.
2. Texas Longhorns: KEY PLAYERS: QB Colt McCoy, WR Jordan Shipley, WLB Roddrick Muckelroy. KEY GAMES: vs. Texas Tech (9/19), vs. 3. Oklahoma (10/17), at 9. Oklahoma State (10/31), at Texas A&M (11/26). OUTLOOK: I have a BCS bid for the Longhorns but I really do believe that OU will get it done in the Red River Shootout if not, a big game at Stillwater looms as well.
3. Oklahoma Sooners: KEY PLAYERS: QB Sam Bradford, TE Jermaine Greshman (hurt), RB DeMarco Murray. KEY GAMES: vs. #20 BYU (9/5), vs. 2. Texas (10/17), at 24. Nebraska (11/07), vs. #9. Oklahoma St. (11/28) OUTLOOK: I also have a BCS bid for the Sooners, it might be one of those years where a one loss team gets in. I have a tough time seeing Boomer Sooner going untouch in the Big 12.
4. USC Trojans: KEY PLAYERS: S Taylor Mays, RB Joe McKnight, WR Daimen Williams. KEY GAMES: at Ohio State (9/12), at #12 California (10/3), at #23 Notre Dame (10/17), at #16 Oregon (10/31) OUTLOOK: I trust that Pete Carroll knows what he is doing with quarterbacks but for the Trojans having four tough road games in a row... eh. I dont know if they can escaped that. They will lose one if not two this year .
5. Alabama Crimson Tide: KEY PLAYERS: DT Terrence Cody, WR Julio Jones, RB Mark Ingram. KEY GAMES: vs. #7 Virgina Tech (9/5), at #8 Mississippi (10/10), vs. #11 LSU (11/07) OUTLOOK: The Tide have a pretty favorable schedule and they could find themselves in a rematch with Florida in the SEC Championship game. Also Cody is a no doubt about it the best run stopper in the NCAA.
6. Ohio State Buckeyes: KEY PLAYERS: QB Terrelle Pryor, DE Thaddeus Gibson, CB Kurt Coleman KEY GAMES: vs. #4 USC (9/12), at #9 Penn State (11/07), vs. #22 Iowa (11/14), at Michigan (11/21). OUTLOOK: I honestly was ready to put the Buckeyes in the Nat'l Championship game but honestly their defense will need some time to get it together. Also the Nittany Lions/Hawkeyes back-to-back is tough.
7. Virginia Tech Hokies: KEY PLAYERS: QB Tyrod Tyler, RB Darren Evans, CB Stephan Virgil. KEY GAMES: vs. #5 Alabama (9/5), vs. #24 Nebraska (9/19), at 15. Georgia Tech (10/17), vs. #21 North Carolina (10/29). OUTLOOK: Easily the toughest non-conference schedule in the Top 25 and if they could power through that they could be in the top five. The ACC is one of the lesser divisions in the BCS too.
8. Mississippi Rebels: KEY PLAYERS: QB Jevan Snead, RB Dexter McCluster, DL Ted Laurent KEY GAMES: vs. #5 Alabama (10/10), vs. #11 LSU. OUTLOOK: They have a couple other road blocks that aren't top twenty-five but who knows they could get past these two teams both in Oxford setting a rematch with the Gators.
9. Penn State Nittany Lions: KEY PLAYERS: QB Daryll Clark, RB Evan Royster, LB Sean Lee. KEY GAMES: vs. #22 Iowa (9/26), vs. #6 Ohio State (11/07) OUTLOOK: I like the Nittany Lions schedule, they have a couple games that could result in an upset like last year but if they keep their head straight, they should head back to the BCS.
10. Oklahoma State Cowboys: KEY PLAYERS: QB Zac Robinson, WR Dez Bryant, RB Kendall Hunter KEY GAMES: vs. Georgia (9/5), vs. #2 Texas (10/31), at #3 Oklahoma (11/28) OUTLOOK: This year's Texas Tech? I think so, I will be watching intently to see how they do against Georgia tomorrow which will be the tell-tale sign of if the Cowboys are for real.
11. LSU Tigers: KEY PLAYERS: RB Charles Scott, WR Brandon LaFell, S Chad Jones: KEY GAMES: at #13 Georgia (10/03), vs. #1 Florida (10/10), at #5 Alabama (11/07), at #8 Mississippi (11/21) OUTLOOK: Pretty challenging schedule for the Tigers who really don't have a quarterback and I wouldn't be surprised if they are barely in the Top 25 by the end of the year.
12. California Golden Bears: KEY PLAYERS: RB Jahvid Best, DE Tyson Alualu, DE Cameron Jordan KEY GAMES: at #16 Oregon (9/26) vs. #4. USC (10/03) OUTLOOK: They could have a successful year with Best being the top running back in the nation and they have great D-Line as well. I see second in the Pac-10.
13. Georgia Bulldogs: KEY PLAYERS: WR A.J. Green, S Reshard Jones, LB Rennie Curren KEY GAMES: at #9 Oklahoma State (9/5) vs. #11 LSU (10/03) vs. #1 Florida (10/31) at #15 Georgia Tech (11/28) OUTLOOK: Who knows what in store for this team, Joe Cox has done some nice things when Stafford went down in years past and they have a some solid defense. Should be an interesting year.
14. Boise State Broncos: I wont give them the full run down because I think we saw last night that they are a very good team that should run the table in the WAC with a possible BCS birth at the end of the year. You never know which Bronco team you are going to get with Head Coach Chris Peterson's trickery.
15. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets: KEY PLAYERS: RB Jonathan Dwyer, QB Josh Nesbit, S Morgan Burnett KEY GAMES: at #18 Florida State (10/10) vs. #7 Virgina Tech (10/17) vs #13 Georgia (11/28) OUTLOOK: Despite their old school offense, they could have a huge year but I am concerned about the back-to-back against FSU/VT though.
16. Oregon Ducks: Once again, no need to give them the full treatment because I think they might not be the team we expected. Also with their returning 1000 yd. rusher LaGarrete Blout may get kick off the team, not good news at all for the Fightin' Mitch Pratts.
17. TCU Horned Frogs: KEY PLAYERS: QB Andy Dalton, DE Jerry Hughes, WR Jimmy Young KEY GAMES:at #20 BYU (10/24) vs. #19 Utah (11/14) OUTLOOK: They have a couple tough games and a pretty young team, I doubt that TCU has the same success as last year.
18. Florida State Seminoles: KEY PLAYERS: QB Christian Ponder, LB Dekoda Watson, CB Patrick Robinson KEY GAMES: vs. Miami (9/7) at #20 BYU (9/19) vs #15 Georgia Tech (10/10) at #21 North Carolina (10/22) at #1 Florida (11/28) OUTLOOK: The Noles have a tough schedule with a lot of road games but if they could blow out the Cougars in two weeks that would be a big sign.
19. Utah Utes: Once again, they played on Thursday and now have a fifteen game winning streak. That will likely come to the end when dealing with Ducks, Colorado, TCU, and BYU all on the road this year doesnt look good for the Utes.
20. Brigham Young Cougars: KEY PLAYERS: QB Max Hall, TE Dennis Pitta, DE Jan Jorgenson KEY GAMES: at #3 Oklahoma (09/05), vs. #18 Florida State (09/19), vs.#17 TCU (10/24), vs. #19 Utah (11/28) OUTLOOK: Hall is a beast but the true question is can they win one of their two non-conference games? If that happens, the Cougars may be the real deal.
21. North Carolina Tar Heels: KEY PLAYERS: QB T.J. Yates, CB Kendric Burney, RB Shaun Draughan KEY GAMES: at #15 Georgia Tech (9/26) vs. #18 Florida State (10/22) at #7 Viriginia Tech (10/29) OUTLOOK: Butch Davis knows how to flat out win and Yates is the real deal. The Tar Heels could possibly win the ACC this year.
22. Iowa Hawkeyes: KEY PLAYERS: QB Ricky Stanzi, WR Derell Johnson-Koulianos, LB Pat Angerer KEY GAMES: at #9 Penn State (9/26), at #6 Ohio State (11/14) OUTLOOK: I would love to say for my buddy JS that they will be in the BCS but I just cant see them winning in Happy Valley and the Horseshoe. They will finish third in the Big Ten though.
23. Notre Dame Fightin' Irish: KEY PLAYERS: QB Jimmy Clausen, WR Golden Tate, RB Armando Allen KEY GAMES: vs. #4 USC (10/17) vs. Boston College (10/24) OUTLOOK: Probably the easiest schedule the Golden Domers have had in years and if they dont get to a New Years Day bowl then its bye bye to Charlie Weis.
24. Nebraska Cornhuskers: KEY PLAYERS: RB Roy Helu Jr. TE Mark McNeill, DT Ndamukong Sun KEY GAMES: at #7 Viriginia Tech (9/19), vs. #3 Oklahoma, at #25 Kansas (11/14) OUTLOOK: I think we will find out where the Cornhuskers stand after the Virigina Tech game and the Sooner game should be a big-time showdown.
25. Kansas Jayhawks: KEY PLAYERS: QB Todd Reesing, WR Dezmon Briscoe, S Darrell Stuckey KEY GAMES: vs #3. Oklahoma (10/24) vs. 24 Nebraska (11/14), at #2 Texas (11/21) OUTLOOK: I was amazed to see Reesing still playing and Briscoe is a hell of player too. Although they have too many tough games to be a contender in the Big 12 North.
Other teams to watch: Oregon State, Michigan State, Illinois, Texas Tech, and West Virigina
If I got something wrong here well its been a long week and now you get picks.
-Charlie.
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