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Monday, November 30, 2009

Charlie Weis Nice Knowing You

I remember someone saying last November that it was Charlie Weis' job to earn or lose.  He obviously lost it.  Now, he is 18 million dollars richer but unemployed for now.  Notre Dame is left searching for answers and cannot keep a head coach to save the program. 

Weis never did it with his own recruits if they waited on Tyrone Willingham, he might be the one getting let go this season instead of Chuck Weis. Brady Quinn wasn't a guy that Weis bred into a first-round quarterback. It helped that Quinn had the two good years of his career under Weis that earned him that fatter than Weis 10 year multi-million dollar contracts.  

The other thing that we can agree on is that Charlie Weis is an offensive coordinator, not a head coach.  Weis brought in guys like Jimmy Clausen, Michael Floyd, Golden Tate, and Armando Allen.  But he couldn't convince any good defenders to play for Notre Dame. Like I said last year, Romeo Crennel would have been the perfect answer for this team. Obviously trying not to sound like John Madden, if they cannot stop an offense, they will not win most games.

I hope Jimmy Clausen and Golden Tate do not come back for their senior year. Now its likely Clausen off to the NFL, his parents sold their house in South Bend, which would be the writing on the wall. Then, it will be the same sort of thing that happened when Weis took over.  Start fresh, let whoever the new coach to create his own team like Rich Rodriguez has been doing at Michigan.  Like I said earlier, if they do not win next year, RichRod is out of a job.

People have been buzzing like Adam Schefter, Joe Schad, and others say that the Bob Stoops rumor is pretty legit.  Stoops, a Catholic, Midwesterner, and I believe is from Indiana.  Also there are Notre Dame Boosters who are from Oklahoma.  Finally the other thing is he is defensive-minded.  Big part of this people may forget is Stoops cannot win a big game lately something Notre Dame failed to do in the past ten years.

My dad had a great suggestion that I will steal... Pat Fitzgerald from Northwestern. They are 8-3, on the rise and can recruit smart guys.  Fitz is also a young coach with a ton of energy and might like the idea of making the step up to Notre Dame.

-Charlie.

Rank em' in December Instead of November

Remember when I told you that rankings shouldn't matter in College Football in September?  Well I am telling you the exact same in College Basketball as this week proved a lot of things to me personally. If I do not put a team into the mix then that means that I feel its a pretty fair ranking.

If we start in the top five, Michigan State and Kentucky haven't lived up to their rankings.  Despite Michigan State getting a good win against Gonzaga, they shouldn't have lost to an unranked Florida team.  I will develop a better understanding of the team when they play North Carolina on Tuesday. Same goes for Kentucky who play the Heels on Saturday.  They nearly lost to Stanford and Miami-OH, I wouldn't call this team a top-five contender yet but I think with their uber-talented freshman class they will be a top five team. Those two I would replace with Duke and Purdue personally although West Virginia deserves some love too. 

Butler goes 1-2 this weekend same with Minnesota.  Both should exit the top 25 this week and I thought giving a Horizon League team a top 10 billing is completely ridiculous to think about it.  The Gophers have a ton of potential but who knows if they will live up to that. In addition, UConn looked average at best against Duke this weekend.    Louisville also dropped a game to UNLV on the road for the second straight year. 

This is why if the rankings were released today people would have a better understanding of the contenders and the teams that have promise although might not be there yet.  In my opinion, Duke is the best team in the nation so far, they played the hardest schedule so far and have won convincingly in all of their games. Wisconsin will be a big test for the Dukies at the Kohl Center in the Buzzcut Bowl on Wednesday.

-Charlie.

A Disappointing End to a Fantastic Weekend

Our first depressed Marquette Golden Eagle post!  Yes, these didn't come around until mid-January last season but in all honesty, this is more positive then negative.  When the Golden Eagles lost Chris O'Tule for the year, I sighed and told Mach this could be a very long year.  Mach requested a fast-forward to 2010, which I think is impossible unless you are Adam Sandler in Click.  Anyways, the start to the year got off to a better start than I believe any Marquette fan thought it actually would.  

Thursday afternoon against Xavier, Marquette got outrebounded letting Reggie Love have a career day with 21 points and 19 rebounds.  Love is a going to be a superstar in the mid-major circuit, big time potential to have a big year this year.  The Golden Eagles got a great game from Lazar Hayward who appears to embrace the senior leadership post.  Jimmy Butler looked awesome showing why Mach and I loved him last year, just a hustler gets after it no matter what.   Darius Johnson-Odom impressed me all weekend and started on Thursday.

I thought they could get past Xavier but I worried about Manny Harris/DeShawn Sims of #15 Michigan. Tough, athletic team with a 1-3-1 zone that can frustrate even Teen Wolf.   DJO tore that zone apart finding holes consistently during the game.  Include another inspired performances by Hayward and Butler, you get a 14 point Marquette victory.  Their defense all weekend was top-notch, ignore the rebounds they gave up at times but they created so many turnovers.

Florida State is a game I blame myself for losing. Went to the gym at around 650 completely forgetting Marquette playing and then before I hit the treadmill I remember they were on.  Mad at myself and questioning my fanhood, I turn on the game to see a 30-18 game at half.  I endured watching the second half and the pain that came with it... I blame myself really.  In my opinion, I didn't see enough of Dwight Bucyks and felt Buzz got Mike McCarthy-conservative way too early in the game.  MU pumped the breaks after a 17-point lead if they kept being agressive I feel they run away with the game by 10 points or so.  Also Butler 4/12 from the line hurt worse than anything else on Sunday.

Looking back on it, a 2-1 weekend is as good as Marquette fans can ask for.  Most people probably thought MU goes 1-2, or even a disastrous 0-3.  The expectations for this team are low but I think this team will overcome this hiccup against FSU... at least I hope.

-Charlie.

Saturday, November 28, 2009

Week 12 Picks: Finally Back, Thanks Turkey Break

Here we go it's a short week for us here at Chucks Corner but I will give you my picks for the weekend. The Packers impressed me against the Lions and I think right now Charles Woodson deserves Defensive Player of the Year more so than Jared Allen.  Woodson does so much more on the field then Allen in my opinion. 

Tampa Bay (1-9) at Atlanta (5-5)- The Falcons need this win badly or they will be faced two games back for the playoff hunt.  Matt Ryan and Matt Forte are competing for "Biggest Sophomore Slump Award" but they should be fine against Tampa. ATL 24-14

Miami (5-5) at Buffalo (3-7)- I am curious to see if we will get a second-dose of Ricky Williams being the MVP-like running back in his heyday before the weed (I am not saying he was ever an MVP candidate but you get the point). TO came out of the casket to get 196 yards and couple TDs in a defeat.  Bills play the Dolphins super tough at home and it will continue this week. BUF 17-14

Cleveland (1-9) at Cincinnati (7-3)- The Bengals fell into the Black Hole and then get blessed with playing the Browns who showed some fight last week although it was against the Lions.  Cincy should have no problem getting by the Browns this week. CINCY 31-17

Seattle (3-7) at St. Louis (1-9)- Such an awful game, I wouldn't pay five dollars to watch this horrendous game. Kyle Boller gets the start and he will probably suck like usual. SEA 27-10 

Carolina (4-6) at NY Jets (4-6)- This is a do-or-die game for either team. Both teams still could be in the playoff hunt if they win but if they do lose, they probably can look towards next year's draft. I think the Sanchise-Rex Ryan thing will look worse after this week losing at home to a warm weather team. CAR 20-14

Washington (3-7) at Philadelphia (6-4)- I will be cheering for the Redskins so the Pack can maintain that five seed but I have no faith in Washington getting it done. They also are 0-5 on the road, which doesn't bode well and I do not believe Clinton Portis will play.  PHI 35-9 

Indianapolis (10-0) at Houston (5-5)- Another must-win for the Texas and Gary Kubiak. The Colts dominated them so far and Peyton Manning has a sore ass, which probably will not hurt the team. Schaub should have a day with their banged-up secondary, I think they pull it out. HOU 28-21 

Kansas City (3-7) at San Diego (7-3)- Spirits are high in both places due to the winning ways.  The Chiefs may have caught the Chargers on a good week after their huge win against Denver. This will be a close battle but LDT and Sporles will close out the game for the Chargers. SD 31-24 

Jacksonville (6-4) at San Francisco (4-6)- The 49ers need this win badly to keep playoff hopes alive and the Jaguars have a playoff team that no one gives a shit about.  The Jaguars running attack will be too much for the Niners in this one.  JAX 23-13

Arizona (7-3) at Tennessee (4-6)- Can the Titans do it again?  Vince Young has looked like a man in the past four weeks and Chris Johnson can do anything he wants after he dominates for my fantasy team. The Cards are banged up and this will be a classic Cardinals WTF game.  TENN 27-14 

Chicago (4-6) at Minnesota (9-1)- Oh no Jay Culter. If you haven't been flustered enough, wait until you play Minnesota defense.  Although Lovie Smith drew up awesome game plans for Brett Favre before so who knows. I think this will be close and a great NFC North battle. MINN 17-14 

Pittsburgh (6-4) at Baltimore (5-5)- No Big Ben means the Dennis Dixon era begins, a guy I liked at Oregon but I have no idea how his play will translate to the pros. The Ravens likely get it done at home with just enough offense and good defense.  BALT 24-7 

New England (7-3) at New Orleans (10-0)- Big time showdown on Monday Night. The Saints have been getting by barely in the last couple of weeks and the Pats looked good on D when they played Sanchez, not so much against Peyton Manning. The Saints will be exposed this week and the Pats win big. NE 38-24

-Charlie.

Tiger Isn't a Robot Afterall.

In terms of top five things I wouldn't expect to happen this year, Tiger Woods getting into a major accident because his wife attacked him with a golf club due to him cheating on his wife.  Shit, that might even be a top three thing that I wouldn't see coming.  This has the makings of being a lesser version of Kobe Bryant fiasco. 

If it comes out that he did cheat on his wife like the gossip hounds are preying on right now about Tiger and this supposed other women.  The first I heard of it was on Deadspin, and didn't have a lot of meat to the story then he gets in this crazy accident the next day, which sounded like he drank and drive.  Now, the next day he supposedly cheated on his wife... unreal.  

Unfortunately, he is going to be destroyed by the media if he cheated on his wife and it will be the hot-topic debate for Around the Horn, First and 10, and PTI for sure probably SportsCenter too.  The crazy thing is this has NEVER happened to golf.  Not Jack, Arnold, Gary Player, Seve, none of the premier golfers ever got in this deep of trouble.  Only the likes of John Daly leading people to laugh at Big John for amusement. 

It will be hard for Tiger to be liked by the media next year if they find out that he cheated.  How awkward does the Masters become if Tiger is leading on the back nine?  Do people root against him, which would be Brett Favre-esqe of a group of people loved him to death and now cannot stand him.  I have no idea how the media likes of Jim Nantz, Dan Hicks, Johnny Miller, and Nick Faldo. 

Me personally, I forgave Kobe Bryant.  Everybody screws up in life and yes, cheating isn't something should happened in any martial relationships.  I will still cheer on Tiger Woods, he is a hell of an athlete and I say there is a 50% chance that this will hurt him 2010, right now. 

-Charlie.

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Turkey Day NFL Picks

Alright since my post total is low, I am just going to do the three picks and then a new one on Sunday to save room for any other thoughts during this week.

Green Bay (6-4) at Detroit (2-8)- Well this is coming to after the wonderful start for the Packers and the Lions want this game bad, this scares me a lot. Matthew Stafford is a complete warrior playing with a separate shoulder. We will sweat this game out entirely.  GB 24-21

Oakland (3-7) at Dallas (7-3)-  I really believe the Raiders will give Dallas a run for their money. I think Bruce Gradowski brought some life into this team and the Cowboys are prime for their December swoon, its close enough to happen.  I think the home team pulls it out in another close game. DAL 27-21

NY Giants (6-4) at Denver (6-4)- A must win for both teams especially for the Giants if the Cowboys and Packers win earlier in the day. Is Kyle Orton playing? A good question to ask but I think the Broncos will play inspired at home featuring another close game.  DEN 21-17  

-Charlie.

NCAA Picks: Stuffing the Turkey

Here are the picks, I am going to try to hustle through them so I can get my NFL picks.

1. Florida-vs. Florida State- In Iowa, I met a man who went to Florida and in case you didn't know, they really hate the Seminoles. The Gators have shit-grins on their faces because this is Tim Tebow's senior day plus a weak FSU team.  UF 42-17  

2. Alabama-at Aubrun- The Tide needs to control the ball with Marc Ingram and not look ahead to the Florida Gators.  The Tigers have been known to be a wrench in Bama's season and I think it's going to a close, grind it out game and here is the upset.  AUB 16-14 

3. Texas-at Texas A&M- Mark my words that one of the unbeatens goes down this weekend driving the buzz for the BCS.  I hope to because college football has been more boring than Eagle Eye but anyways, Mike Sherman is comparing their team to Rocky... Cannott trust Sherminator.  TEXAS 31-14

4. TCU-vs. New Mexico- Well this game is a wash. 0-10 vs. 10-0, its going to be ugly. TCU 55-10

5. Cincinnati-vs. Illinois- The Fighting Illini have had a couple good wins but this could probably save Ron Zook's job if they pull off this improbable upset.  Trust me, the Brian Kelly-Notre Dame distractions will get to this team before its all the said and done, they pull off a close one.  CINCY 24-20

6. Boise State-vs. Nevada- I really wish this was a road game for the Broncos but I feel the WAC is a complete joke.  Nevada has a fighter chance but they cannot stop an offense, not good at all for the Wolfpack.  BOISE 42-28 

7. Georgia Tech-vs. Georgia- The Yellow Jackets are number seven in the nation?  Unbelievable, its shows that the triple-option isnt dead. (Doz is laughing at me somewhere in Tosa)  Mark Richt seat may get warmer after this one.  Not going to be close.   GT 27-10

9. Pittsburgh-at West Virginia- The Panthers have been very good and Dave Wannstedt suddenly this great coach. I will watch this game to see how good Dion Lewis and Noel Devine go back-forth all game long. I like the fact the Mountaineers are at home and I think they will get it done. WV 31-24

12. Oklahoma State-at Oklahoma- The Sooners were awful last week getting blown out by Texas Tech on the road. The Cowboys really need to make a stamp of approval that they deserve to get into the BCS and I think they make a case. OSU 31-17 

14. Virginia Tech-at Virginia- The Cavaliers are really bad this year and Al Groh may need to move after this season and the Hokies are still playing pretty well.  VT 37-14 

15. LSU-vs. Arkansas- Les Miles looked more confused than Forrest Gump when his mom's banging the principal. The Tigers should bounce back nicely against the Razorbacks, they will take care of business.  LSU 27-16 

17. Miami-at South Florida- This is a new rivalry I guess and it is one that definitely should be. I think the Bulls may be able to get Miami in this game because its a home game but I trust in Jacory Harris, win by a field goal.  MIAMI 24-21

18. Clemson-at South Carolina- The Gamecocks/Tigers have went in complete different directions this season, one up one down.  The ole ball coach hasnt done well against thier rivals and I think Clemson worrying about the ACC will haunt them.  USC 24-13 

19. BYU-at 21. Utah- The Holy War where the Mormans vs. the Christians. The Fightin' Chets will be tested but I like the fact that the Utes are at home, I know nothing about Mountian West football either. UTAH 38-31 

20. USC-vs. UCLA- Very, very weird to have the Trojans this far down in the rankings and the Bruins has been rough on offense this whole season. The Trojans also want to prove something after the Stanford debacle.  USC 35-16

24. North Carolina-at NC State- The Tar Heels move back into the Top 25, they have been playing well as of late and the Wolfpack are not doing well this year. This rivalry game will be a bloodbath.  UNC 38-13

25. Mississippi-at Miss. State- The Rebels played well last week and Dexter McCluster is one of the most exciting players in the nation right now.  The Bulldogs have had a decent year but I think they will not be able to compete with Jevan Snead.  MISS 28-17

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Plague of Charlie Tritschler

Programming note, I will be doing the picks for at least the first three games and the one college one for tomorrow but have everything done for CFB by Friday, NFL by Saturday. I couldn't think of another creative title than that one but it seems like my teams have really been bit with the injury bug in the past couple of days.

The lesser of the two evils, Marquette who already was small got dwarfed down to Gary Coleman losing 6'8 Horace-Grant look-a-like Chris Otule for the season with a broken foot.  Older Mach wondered on Twitter yesterday if the AL was built on an Indian burial ground and I am beginning to believe the same thing. I feel bad for Otule because everything I read made it sound that he progressed mightily in the past couple of weeks.  If Marquette were smart, they would do a full-court press for 60-70 percent of the game to combat the lack of size.

Now on to the much bigger issue, the Packers have lost both Al Harris and Aaron Kampman for the year.  Kampman I pondered the idea when he was out with a concussion if he could really play in the 3-4? It will be interesting to see how Brad Jones/Brady Poppinga and others handle Kampman's absence. I think it makes the team for blitz happy.  Harris worries me completely due to see more of #24 Jarrett Bush, the reincarnation of Bhowah Jue on the football field.  Tramon Williams needs to prove in the coming months that he is going to be the next big thing in the Packer secondary.  Also Atari Bigby must cover the tight end better for the Packers to be successful in December. 

2009 in sports for my teams (Packers, Marquette, Brewers, Bucks)- Year of Injuries.  Screw you 09.  

-Charlie.

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

NFL Week 11 Wrap-up

It will be a quick turnaround. I will write about the Packers in a separate article and an MU article because they are definitely due for one.  There should be picks up on Wednesday or Thursday before the Pack gets under away. 

Miami 24 Carolina 17- Ricky Williams look like the right deal again probably due taking two years off to hit the bong.  Now he is dominating like Williams did at Texas.  Also it's likely that Carolina is out of the playoff hunt, the Dolphins still have a shot. 

Dallas 7 Washington 6- What an awful game to watch if you were a fan of either team.  I still am not sold on the Cowboys and Romo. Sadly, they get the fighting Mitch Pratts this Thursday leading to another win and then it becomes December where the C in Cowboys stand for choke. 

Detroit 38 Cleveland 37- The worst two teams in the league play each other and it ends up being the best game of the weekend.  Great performance by Matthew Stafford who will be out for the Turkey Day game because of the separated left shoulder he got in the final drive.  Lions fans should be happy for the future.

Kansas City 27 Pittsburgh 24- The Steelers have looked like a dominate force when Troy Polomalu was in there but once again, he is out leading to the Steel City struggling again.  Also their special teams may be the death of this team. 

Minnesota 35 Seattle 9- The Vikings once again get a piss-poor team and they run a complete train on them. Sidney Rice looks like a top wide receiver and Brett Favre looks like the MVP... gulp.

NY Giants 34 Atlanta 31- The NY Giants broke out of their four game slump; Eli Manning looked good but the defense still struggled. The Falcons who are now a game back of three teams.  Not good at all, Matt Ryan looks like a shell of himself last year and they still do not have Michael Turner.

New Orleans 38 Tampa Bay 7- Next week we will see if the Saints are in the top teams when they play the New England Patriots.

Jacksonville 18 Buffalo 15- Terrell Owens had his best game tearing it up for almost 200 yards and a couple of touchdowns, yet they still lost the game.  Jacksonville is suddenly 6-4, someone explain to me how this happened? 

Indianapolis 17 Baltimore 15- The Colts have been just pulling games out of their asses in the last two weeks. They get an all the sudden fourth and two call against New England now Ed Reed tries to lateral the ball in under a minute left, what the hell is he doing?  Cmon son.

Arizona 21 St. Louis 13- A big WHOOOOOOOOOOOOOO CAREEEEEEEEEEEESSSS

San Diego 32 Denver 3- Haven't we seen this movie before?  Denver is collapsing and Brandon Marshall is fighting teammates, good times.  The Chargers look strong once again until Norv Turner finds a way to shit the bed in the playoffs. 

Oakland 20 Cincinnati 17- The Bengals have a complete collapse in the Black Hole on Sunday and the Raiders rallied behind Bruce Gradowski.  I can only hope he does it against the Dallas Cowboys this Thursday.

New England 31 NY Jets 14- The Pats-Jets rivalry has reached childish levels with Bellichek throwing the fade route with under a minute left then Rex Ryan taking a timeout.  Can we also agree that Rex Ryan/Mark Sanchez isnt all that its cracked up to be?  They probably finish 7-9, 8-8. 

Philadelphia 24 Chicago 20- The Bears lose again. The smile is on my face trust me and its get to see Jay Cutler whine/complain about everything in the NFL game. I also cannot believe Lovie Smith's job is in question with his entire defense being long gone.

Tennessee 20 Houston 17- The Titans found a new lease on life with Vince Young at quarterback and they run the option which I hope to see in Madden 11 next year. Chris Johnson is a Godsend on my fantasy team and Kris Brown sucks at life.

-Charlie.

What I Learned from Week 12 in College Football

With school and my trip to Iowa, I didn't get to my picks once again. I know that all of you rely on who I decides win each ball games but understand that I am writing a lot for class therefore I really do not feel the need to write for fun.  I will still try to do my best in the coming weeks.

-As I referred to my trip to Iowa, probably one of the best experiences of my college life. I had an awesome time with JS and his roommates. The drinking consumes was at ridiculous levels that probably shouldnt be repeated. I enjoyed my first Cuban cigar and the finest hard liquor I have had in my life (Johnnie Walker Red). The game itself was pretty boring but Kinnick Stadium is worth seeing. Full crowd at 11 am including the student section and full of life, great experience.  I really didn't want to end.  Thank you to all who made it possible.

-The Big 12 isn't good this year.  A banged up Oklahoma team got blown out by Texas Tech.  Kansas and their angry chubby coach don't put up even a fight against Texas.  Nebraska has been inconsistent all year and they won the Big 12 North.  Texas isn't as good as people may believe. I honestly feel the National Championship is on December 5th. 

-I personally would have predicted Ole Miss over LSU had a gut feeling all week about that one.  It's a bitter lost for Tigers fans but they should realize that they had no chance in playing in a BCS game unless Florida/Alabama maybe drop two.  Still pretty hard to see them there.  Les Miles just made a mistake simple as that. 

-Ohio State and Michigan has lost its luster.  Just like Florida-Florida State, it's not a rivalry anymore because it's completely one-sided affair.  The Wolverines will be on their feet next year but the Buckeyes need to prove they can win a big game this January.

-Oregon is lucky to have won last weekend but they showed so much strength coming back all night against Arizona.  Also Stanford dream ended by California and now we have Oregon-Oregon State in the final week in two weeks. Remember I said that a conference defines itself by ending in the final week?  Yeah I did, thank you. 

-Notre Dame loses again. Good bye Charlie Weis and maybe you should have focused more on defensive recruits because it seems that was ignored. I cringe to see what Toby Gerhardt does next week.

-Charlie.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

NFL Daily: See Ya Later Jauron and LJ Lands in Cincy

Once again I am taking the easy way out by doing two articles in one because I can get things done quicker. Trust me, you will enjoy it better than watching twenty-fours of basketball. Although if I have nothing to do next year, I am writing a complete blog about 24 hours of watching college basketball, I do not know if I can do it though.

T.O. Takes out Another Coach- I probably shouldn't take this one on T.O. because this isn't his fault.  I think management for the Buffalo Bills have been awful in the past five years and bringing guys like Trent Edwards as your starting quarterback.  The Bills who were a great franchise in the 90s are now a hapless franchise needing a quarterback.  Honestly, trade up and get Jimmy Clausen if he comes out. I think that would be awesome solution to their problems.  In addition, if they bring in a guy like Mike Shanahan they could become a contender in a couple of years probably without T.O.

Larry Johnson, now a Bengal- I honestly didn't know what to think about this one for multiple reasons. If this works, they have a SCARY 1-2 punch when Cedric Benson is healthy again and it makes them closer to being a Super Bowl Contender.  But he could be a distraction and ruin team chemistry leading the team to struggles in the second half.  Adam Schefter reported earlier this week via Twitter that if LJ becomes a problem, they could release him like fish on a string.  I think it works out and makes the Bengals that much more of a contender.

-Charlie.

NBA Daily: Jacko and Ivo Gone.

Trying to get caught up on the sports world. Once again, my apologies but I have some free time Friday afternoon while my main man JS is doing the school thing at Iowa. I hope to be all done by then but who knows a couple NBA stories...

Stephen Jackson goes to Charlotte... hahahahahaha-  This could of been the best place for this asshole to go. I didn't want him to go to a new team and self-destruct the team (only if it was LeBron... I kid).  He is the biggest cancer in the NBA right now, just creates problems.  Also poor Charlotte... they get a team back and now they have $36 million dollars tied up in 2011 to four players who will not be superstars (Big ups to one of the ESPN guys who had that on Twitter, I want to say it was Marc Stein). The Bobcats will find a new location by 2012, trust me.  Or if that awful movie proves to be true, there will be no basketball (Side Note: How the hell does that shitty John Cusack flim make 65 million?! That just shows movie-goers have no taste).

The end of Allen Iverson- It is so sad that Allen Iverson is now a nobody in the NBA world. I know when its all said and done, he may be the reason why the NBA suffered such a decline after Michael Jordan and the lockout. No one liked the tattoos and the attitude, whatever the guy was a new kind of point guard.  He did some many great things on defense and drove to the hoop better than any short point guard I have ever seen.  I hope Ivo goes to New York, only so he has an opportunity to play and end his career on the right note.  If he goes to a team like Cleveland will be a complete disaster, trust me.  We all know he doesn't want to play on the bench, just know that.

-Charlie.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

NFL Week 10 Wrap-Up

My apologies for not getting my picks in. Many things including school contributed to the fact I didn't get my picks in. I will be writing wrap-ups for all of the game, some may be short some may be long. 

Green Bay 17 Dallas 7- I was so impressed with the Packers on Sunday. Going into the game, I thought we might lose this game.  Could it be the end of the Aaron Kampman expeirment at outside linebacker?  The team looked completely different without him.  Charles Woodson should be into included in the Defensive Player of the Year.  I realize Aaron Rodgers will go down a couple times but if it happens sporadically throughout the game, I will not worry as much. 

Indianapolis 35 New England 34- Nothing do I like more than seeing my roommate Brett screaming and yelling on the court. My roommates actually stopped watching the game to enjoy Dexter and Californication on Showtime. If that was the Packers are we were getting drilled like that, I would still be watching. But we made in time for the Bill Bellichek move, which I am already sick of... thanks ESPN.  Its a dumbass move by the Master of the Hoodie and the defense has to be hurt right now.  I also think we need to monitor what Bellicheck does the rest of the year to see if he has indeed lost his marbles. 

Cincinnati 18 Pittsburgh 12- The Bengals are the real deal.  I do not think Larry Johnson will be a problem because according to the ESPN football guys, he will be released right away.  Their defense is tougher than anyone thought they would be and for the Packers sake, that lost doesn't look half bad.  I think this team has a chance to be a Super Bowl contender. The Steelers cannot lose Troy Polomalu again though, that would hurt them severely.  I also think teams studied what Cincy did to confuse Big Ben. 

San Francisco 10 Chicago 6- Oh Jay Culter.  5 interceptions, on pace for 30+.  That is awesome. The Bears defense is awful and they play on Sunday Night again next week where Cutler has shit the bed in nationally televised game. No way would I fire Lovie Smith, its not his fault he has lost the entire linebacking crew but I think we can all agree that the Cover 2 defense is R.I.P.  

Carolina 28 Atlanta 19- What is wrong in Hotlana?  Matt Ryan is looking like a one-year wonder and they are faced with a must-win against the New York Giants next week on the road.  Also they might have lost Michael Turner for a couple weeks, which would be detrimental if the team expects to get to the playoffs. Also don't look not but Carolina is 4-5, may sneak up on people. 

Miami 25 Tampa Bay 23- Shouldn't have got this close.  Tony Sparano looks so confused in most fourth quarters, I don't know what he's thinking about.. the game or the post game meal?  Also it looks like Tampa found a quarterback in Josh Freeman.

Minnesota 27 Detroit 10- Well the Brett Favre a-hole fans get another cheap win and I had a friend, Dougy who informed the world with his status that "Favre and the Vikes haven't beat a team with over five wins." Not good news for Vikings fans because that means they have beat a contender (maybe the Packers but who knows)

Tennessee 41 Buffalo 17- Dick Jauron got the boot (more to come later) and its proving that Vince Young is back in full action.  Also if Chris Johnson hits the corner, he is gone. The first guy that I think I will try to get every fantasy league that I am in for the next couple of years.  Also Bud Adams giving the Stone Cold Salute to the Bills was great as well.  Who cares it was worth $250,000. 

Washington 27 Denver 17- Kyle Orton goes out with injury in the second half, enter Chris Simms. As Tommy Callhan once said, "Ooooooh my gooood."  He sucks and if he plays against the San Diego Chargers, it could be around 45-0 for San Diego.  Good win for the Redskins, lets see if they can string two against Dallas. 

New Orleans 28 St. Louis 23- I thought this would be a complete blowout and the Saints barely won. Steven Jackson rushed all over the Saints D plus they will probably beat Tampa Bay but I gurantee that they will lose to the next good team they play.

Jacksonsville 24 NY Jets 22- Maurice Jones-Drew shouldn't have kneeled that ball for fantasy owners and for the team. I would have been so mad if I was a Jaguar fan.  Mark Sanchez is definitely nowhere close to Rookie of the Year. 

Kansas City 16 Oakland 10- Who really cares.  Darrius Heyward-Bey sucks at catching the football, too many poor drops.  Sorry Mitch.

Arizona 31 Seattle 20- The Cardinals very inconsistent team but they can keep progressing in the NFC West. Beanie Wells has been looking like a stud lately and who knows if Kurt Warner will be able to keep this up through the whole year. 

San Diego 31 Philadelphia 23- Once again, the Eagles didn't look that good throughout this game until a strong comeback.  The Eagles like I said last week have not found themselves as a team and who knows if they will all year.

Baltimore 16 Cleveland 0- Cleveland sucks.  Thats all about them. 

-Charlie.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

NBA Weekly: A Number Change and a Firing

Just to give my 10 readers out there an idea of what's going on in the next couple of days here at the Corner. We will be doing this NBA article followed by NFL Picks for Week 9 and then a College Basketball preview at the beginning of the week plus a running diary of my Iowa trip (I promise this every time but seriously I'm spending three nights, the stories should be plentiful) . 

If I ever do things like "NBA Weekly" or something like that, more times than not I am too late to talk about it so I group it with something that is closely relevant.  Anyways, on to one of my favorites, LeBron James.

LeBron made a comment after beating the Miami Heat on Thursday night that he will switch his jersey next year to number six from number 23 because no one should wear Michael Jordan's number.  According to Bron, he was so influential to all of the players that are in the league today.  While I agree with LBJ that Michael Jordan inspired a ton of people playing today... he needs to read GD book about the NBA if he is asking for a full-on retirement.  Like others said on various outlets, Bill Russell and Dr. J should come before Jordan and Jackie Robinson number is retired because he paved the way for African-Americans into the MLB. 

Now on to the Byron Scott firing. People have said before the year started that he was on the hotseat to start the year off.  No one was shocked by the move and if you really think about New Orleans doesn't have anyone after Chris Paul and David West.  Nor will they have anyone because they have a cheap ass owner not willing to spend any money on the team.  Scott will coach somewhere next year because for whatever reason, he can get two to three good years out of the team then he loses them.  Also Hornets fan might as well start realizing Chris Paul might not be there in a couple years, despite that extension.

-Charlie.

NCAA Picks: Putting You on the Hotseat.

Just a programming note.  I will be doing picks on Thursday for the NFL and NCAA, maybe even as earlier as Wednesday.  If I am somehow do not get to it, I will give my thoughts on the Thursday night game.  Makes my life harder but sweeter for you.  If you are curious about the NFL Midseason Report you can read it here

1. Florida-at South Carolina- Despite winning the SEC East, some people believe the Gators could be in big trouble heading to Columbia.  While I think their defense is tough, the Gamecocks have no answer for the Gator defense.  This should be over by tthe second half.  UF 20-9 

2. Alabama-at Mississippi State- Last weekend at Ripon, I met a guy from Alabama and holy shit, do they love their college football.  He explained how during the Tennessee-Bama game that he told his wife, "If they lose, I don't want to see you or fucking talk to you."  Well then. The Bulldogs will hang in there for awhile then the Tide becomes too tough.  BAMA 20-10

3. Texas-at Baylor- Is this a rivalry?  I have no clue but the Longhorns should roll in this game.  The Big 12 is really weak this year and no one is really saying much about it.  TEXAS 42-10 

4. TCU-vs. 16. Utah- The Horned Frogs are definitely a legit team in college football right now and I wonder why Gary Patterson's name hasn't been brought up as "the next head coach of this team..."  His defense will be too much for a freshman quarterback of the Utes.  TCU 31-13

5. Cincinnati-vs. 25. West Virigina- A big time Friday night matchup.  People will be watching this to see if the Bearcats are for real and if the looming Brian Kelly distractions bother the team.  Noel Devine needs to have a big day and it will be interesting to see what Tony Pike does when he gets in the game.  This one will be high scoring and close, I will take the home team.  CINCY 45-41  (Edit: Cincy wins by a FG, they took care of business and they set up a huge showdown with Pitt in a couple of weeks)

6. Boise State-vs. Idaho- The Spud Bowl battle.  The Vandals have had the best year in a long time and the Broncos continue to show promise every week in the weak WAC. Honestly, I think this game will be close but the Broncos are too good.  BOISE 35-28 

7. Georgia Tech-at Duke- The kings of the ACC so far head to Cameron where there should be Cameron Crazies for a football game. I will be watching to see if the Blue Devils are for real.  I think they will be a bit too excited and the Paul Johnson offense will get it done.  GT 28-17 

8. LSU-vs. Louisiana Tech- The Tigers continue their non-conference tour of Louisiana.  The Tigers are without Jared Jefferson this week but the Bulldogs are nothing to fear.  LSU 31-7

9. USC-vs. Stanford- The Cardinal and their goofy tree are the talk of the town after knocking off the Ducks. The question is can they do it again this week against the Trojans.  I vote no, USC is at home and Stanford doesn't play well on the road. Also the SC defense will handle Toby Gerhardt.  USC 24-14

10. Iowa-at 11. Ohio State- Well I head to Iowa next week for the game against the Gophers and they are playing the Buckeyes this week on the road. The defense for Iowa needs to be huge in this one for them to win. For my guy JS I will take the Hawkeyes but it will have to be low-scoring.  IOWA 13-10

11. Ohio State-SEE 10. Iowa

12. Pittsburgh-vs. Notre Dame- I think this could be called "Charlie Weis' Job Bowl" if he loses this one, I think it's a done deal that he is fired.  If they can find a way to stop Dion Lewis then Weis lives for another day. The Golden Domers' defense is pretty poor though, expect a shoot out ending with a Panther win. PITT 38-34 

13. Oregon-vs. Arizona State- A late night game for all of us that need college football the whole day. The Ducks and Mitch Pratt try to recover after last week's defeat.  The Sun Devils bring a freshman quarterback into the Autzen Zoo, that will not end well.  ORE 45-21

14. Miami-at North Carolina- The U knows that every game in the ACC is a must-win and knows it needs some help to get into the ACC Championship game.  The Tar Heels have been rather sporadic all year and still do not like them even in a home setting. MIAMI 23-17 

15. Houston-at UCF- People have been trying to rallying around Chase Keenum for Heisman, but I personally see it as Colt Brennen a couple years ago.  I actually think the Golden Knights will pull off a mild upset in this one.  UCF 23-21 

16. Utah-SEE 4. TCU

17. Arizona-at California- It's time to prove if the Wildcats are the real deal in the next four weeks. The Bears are without Jahvid Best who had that horrific concussion last weekend.  That will propel Arizona to victory. ZONA 35-21 

18. Penn State-vs. Indiana- Completely stunned to see the Nittany Lions get slaughtered by the Buckeyes. I was watching our friend Doz at Ripon so I didn't watch the game to tell you the reasons why. I think Joe Pa's boys will be fine against the Hoosiers.  PSU 34-14 

19. Oklahoma State-vs Texas Tech- What a boring game. Granted, it will be high scoring but the Big 12 has fallen off big time since last year where every game seemed to be the most exciting game we were about to witnessed. The Cowboys will roll.  OSU 42-24

20. Wisconsin-vs. Michigan- The Badgers have been haunted by Big Blue in the past ten years with weird losses (i.e. last year or the Bret Bell fumble on the punt) I think the Wisconsin defense is tougher than people think and should frustrated Tate Forcier.  UW 24-10 

21. Virgnia Tech-at Maryland- The Hokies have really fallen off the past couple of weeks but the good news is they are playing Maryland who is worst than Lady Gaga's wardrobe.  VT 38-13

22. BYU-at New Mexico- The Fightin' Chets head to Lobo country where they have the college version of Tom Cable. Won't help them win though. BYU 52-17

23. Oregon State-vs. Washington- The Beavers are new members to the BCS and they play a Washington team who hasn't done anything after the big win against USC.  Jacquizz Rodgers will do major work in this one.  OSU 42-14

24. South Florida-at Rutgers- Eh, really not an exciting Thursday night game.  The Bulls have had a roller coaster ride throughout the Big East season and the Scarlet Knights haven't found a quarterback that compares to Mike Teel.  I will go with the Bulls.  USF 31-20 (Edit: I was wrong big time.  Rutgers blew them out big time in a 31-0 victory.)

25. West Virgnia-SEE 5. Cincinnati

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Impressions from the 2009 NFL Season

I am just giving basically a bunch of quick hitters for the NFL season.  Just things that I have noticed during the season.  Its been a really strange year with many bad teams with probably seven teams who might hope they get the number one pick.   Here we go...

-The Green Bay Packers have disappointed me so far.  I believe I said a Pop-Warner pimple faced eleven year old could probably get three sacks against anyone on the Packers offensive line.  Aaron Rodgers might die against Dallas, Baltimore, or Pittsburgh.  Also the 3-4 hasn't been a success so far. Aaron Schatz of Football Insiders said on the BS Report on Monday, the Pack does have the easiest schedule for the rest of the year.  I will continue to pick the Packers because its against my religion to do otherwise. 

-The New Orleans Saints are the best team in the NFC.  No questions ask.  Drew Brees, in my opinion is the MVP so far.  They need to stop making turnovers though if they think they can win the Super Bowl.  Also their secondary gets no credit, they are the x-factor. 

-The Bears might be the same disappointment level.  People expected this NFC North to be the most competitive division in football and it's been a bigger flop than the new Boondock Saints movie (why even go there by the way?).  No defense whatsoever and I fear Lovie Smith may be looking for work next year. 

-The Vikings get two lines from me... They look like the third best team but I am still on a wait and see before crowing them.

-Dallas fans, I just want to remind you how much Tony Romo sucks in December.  Just keep remembering that. I know he tears up the Packers in the two games they have played. I think the Cowboys make the playoffs but no playoff wins for Romo. 

-Eagles/Falcons/Cardinals have a chance to be pretty good teams by the end of the year but who really knows. The inconsistencies of all three teams doesnt make any of these teams contenders by no means. I think Arizona will win the NFC West and one of those teams makes the Wild Card.

-I am not sold on Indianapolis yet.  I feel they need to show me something this weekend to call me a believer. Peyton Manning is playing his ass off but the secondary injuries will come back to haunt them. I am willing to bet they do not get the one seed.

-My roommate Brett feels the Patriots are playing at that "2005 Level", which I agree with because they are doing it with nobodies on defense plus they are running the ball.  They will run away with the AFC East. 

-The AFC North and West will provide the most excitement for division races.  The Steeler-Bengal game will tell us a lot about both teams and the Chargers will come back to win the AFC West, sorry Broncos I am starting to fade off.  Also Houston, and Baltimore miss the playoffs. 

-Charlie.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Early Season Bucks Thoughts... I am Excited?

I have something to confess to all of you.  I watched a whole, quite boring NBA game between the Milwaukee Bucks versus the Minnesota Timberwolves.  They came back from a tough first half to dominate the third quarter and parts of the fourth quarter.  Because of that little thing called school, I will miss most if not all of the Bucks game against Denver on Wednesday but now I am excited for the Bucks. 

Brandon Jennings like I told most of you will give us the swagger than the Bucks haven't had in six years. He does everything on the court minus the three-point shooting.  Granted, he will develop that into the deep range shooting but he is a pass first teammate.  He is nothing what the "experts" said.  Supposedly according to my buddy Ron, Jennings just lives a block from the Cousins Center, no car, just a regular guy and has already been quoted that he would rather get to the playoffs and have a winning season then win Rookie of the Year.  He is everything the Bucks haven't had in the last six years. 

Andrew Bogut needs to stay healthy because I think it's fair to Bogut's play inside helps propels the Bucks into everything they do.  He looked like man possessed against a very good Al Jefferson on Friday. Bogut had a vicious dunk on Jefferson plus a mean block later.  But I worry about his knees and so I will maintain with caution. 

The Bucks also have done something not a lot of NBA teams do... play great defense.  That will help the Bucks out so much against the lesser teams in the NBA.  Look at the Knicks and T-Wolves as examples, they couldn't do shit against the defense of the Bucks.  They have all hustle guys who love to get after the loose balls around the court.  This is also something that excites me about the 2009-2010 Milwaukee Bucks.

Finally, you have to give John Hammond a lot of credit so far.  Carlos Delfino has been a pleasent surprise off the bench so far and despite his faux hawk, he does a lot of little things. Hakim Warrick looks great so far and does a lot of things inside to help Bogut become a better player.  Jodie Meeks, do not sleep on him he might be a sleeper by the end of the year.  If Hammond flips Redd for a first-round pick and expiring contracts I will be a happy man. 

Also you will not see much complaining about the Bucks. I will just take the season as it goes and if we to the playoffs, it will be an awesome accomplishment.  

-Charlie.

Monday, November 9, 2009

Lovers of JJ Hardy in Critical Depression

I said in September that this off-season will decide the Brewers fate for the next couple of years.  The first move was made on Friday (apologies for being late but no computer really since today).  The Brewers dealt the once All-Star JJ Hardy to Minnesota for Carlos Gomez.  Some have been wary about this deal but I personally love this deal, I will give some reasons why shortly but here is what is to believe to be the starting lineup in my opinion per what Doug Melvin said to the Journal Sentinel. 

2B Rickie Weeks
SS Alcides Escobar
LF Ryan Braun
1B Prince Fielder
RF Corey Hart
3B Mat Gamel/Casey McGehee (Honestly this could be the five spot but I except Gamel to start, I doubt the Brewers put the pressure on him to bat fifth at the start of things)
C Mike Rivera
CF Carlos Gomez

The man with the mustache said that he would like to see Gomez at the bottom of the order with speed which makes sense to me.  Here we go with my reasons...

1. Speed, Speed, Speed- Honestly, we now have five to six legitimate base stealers. That will facilitate so much for the Fielder/Braun combination.  In my opinion, there should be no reasons why the Brewers will not have runners in scoring position for 3 and 4.  Also Ken Macha needs to adapt to this as well. 

2. Upgrade on Defense?- Honestly that might sound crazy but I always thought Cam never lived up to the three-time Gold Glove award when he was at Milwaukee. Gomez covers the whole centerfield and can make the big plays that are needed in the outfield.  

3. Very Young- He is only twenty-three. I could give two shits about his hitting with his great speed and defense in the first place.  Dale Sveum has been proven to help young hitters and he will continue to grow into a leadoff spot type of guy in the coming years. 

4. Minnesota History- The Twins have done this before and given up talent for no real reason.  Matt Garza for Delmon Young is a perfect example.  They gave up on Garza for whatever reason and he proved to be a solid second or third starter if the team is good.  While they have brought in prospects, they have also dealt some away.   

5. We are Active- This excites me that the Crew already making moves. Milwaukee Brewers have an extra ten million dollars without the Mike Cameron contract, probably the Jason Kendall contract (I will go Freddy Krueger on someone if Doug resigns him).  Why not go after John Lackey?  Make the pitch to him; see what happens who knows it could turn out great. 

-Charlie.

Who Gets Fired First?

Two storied college football programs.  Two struggling college football programs who haven't found the way yet.  Two coaches who collectively should be worried about any call to the Athletic Director's office in the coming weeks.  Who goes first... Michigan's Rich Rodriguez or Notre Dame's Charlie Weis? 

The arguments for Rich Rod is that you have to give a guy time to recruit and build a program his way before letting him go. I agree with this concept but programs like Michigan want success at all times therefore they could give two shits about that, just see Kentucky Basketball if you need an example.   The Wolverines are once again hitting the cellar after two big losses to Illinois and Purdue.  Two teams I would argue they should probably beat and now Rich Rod needs to spilt Wisconsin and Ohio State.  If he beats the Buckeyes, I think no doubt about it, his job is safe.  Michigan could be 1-10 but if that one win is against Ohio State, all is forgiven.  I believe a big road win against the Badgers would also help his resume even if he dropped the game against the Buckeyes.  

For the Fightin' Irish, the arguments aren't there.  The Irish higher-ups know if they keep Weis around that maybe Jimmy Clausen will stay another year and the Golden Domers will have another chance at winning the big one.  Because I guaran-damn-tee if Weis were to get fired, and Clausen stays that next coach will get the same sort of hype Weis got at the beginning of his tenure.  Some feel that the Navy loss was the last stand and that the writings officially on the wall. Although if they can win out winning against two ranked teams on the road, could earn them a January 1st bowl plus the prospects of Clausen returning could help things out. Who knows though with the Fightin' Irish.   

-Charlie.

SEC Getting Unfair Love

I think one of the most annoying things about college football is how much fanfare there is for the SEC.  The real reason is they have rabid fans that fill message boards and any other medium online making them seem like that is the only way to play football. While I agree that the athletes who play in the SEC are likely the fastest, doesn't crown them as the toughest athletes.

People will argue to me that "We have the top two teams in the nation, how can we not be the best?"  Well my friends, those two teams-Florida and Alabama have already clinched their respective conferences.  I would expect that sort of thing to come down to the final weekend or damn near close to it.  The SEC this year has two great teams then a couple of good teams, then the rest are simply average.

I am not taking away from anything that Bama and the Gators have accomplished this year but there hasn't been that third team to challenge either team.  Mississippi was supposed to be that team and they fell flatter on their face than Melissa Joan Hart on Jimmy Kimmel.   South Carolina has a mean defense, but the Ole Ball Coach cannot find out how to coach offense.  LSU doesn't have a quarterback and just lost Charles Scott, which will prove to hurt the team.  Auburn shown nothing in big game situations and Georgia inconsistency has been a huge problem.

The Pac-10 is clearly the best conference this year.  USC and Oregon can compete with anyone plus Arizona has the chance to prove they are for real in the coming weeks.  Stanford has come out of nowhere to be a good team and Toby Gerhardt might be one of the most underrated players in college football.  In addition, California and Oregon State shouldn't be slept on.  That my friends are a definition of a tough as nails conference.   The reason why they get no love is due to the East Coast bias that haunts the sports media day in and day out. 

-Charlie.

Friday, November 6, 2009

NFL Picks Week 9: Here's to Destroying My Liver

I will be away for the weekend at Ripon visiting friends Doz and JPar. If I remember enough I will create a running diary of what happened during the whole wekeend.  So the NFL picks are early this week enjoy.

Washington (2-5) at Atlanta (4-3)- The Falcons have now lost two straight and I really think they could have beat New Orleans last week had it not been for turnovers. The Redskins have had two weeks but they have more drama than The Ruins on a weekly basis.  ATL 28-16

Arizona (4-3) at Chicago (4-3)- A big time game this weekend and in a lot of games, we will figure whose in good position for the Wild Card.  The Cards struggled last week but they did play well in the cold two weeks ago.  The Bears offensive line has been woeful and I think Warner-Fitzgerald tears it up. ARI 34-24 

Baltimore (4-3) at Cincinnati (5-2)- The Ravens looked like they could got their defense swagger back last weekend against Denver and the Nati has had two weeks to prepare for the chance of a sweep.  Chad Ocho Cinco sent the Ravens deodrant... the man is a genius.  I will take the home team close.  CINCY 17-16 

Miami (3-4) at New England (5-2)- The Dolphins got very lucky this week thanks to Ted Ginn Jr. housing two touchdowns on kickoff returns.  The Patriots are looking for revenge after getting destroyed last year by the Phins.  Add to the fact, they have had two weeks.  NE 35-20

Green Bay (4-3) at Tampa Bay (0-7)- I hate, hate, hate, hate playing the last team who hasn't won a game.  It just worries me and I think it will be closer than it really should be until about the fourth quarter.  The Pack hasn't been all that successful in Tampa.  GB 30-17 

Kansas City (1-7) at Jacksonville (3-4)- This is an absolute snoozefest and the Chiefs have got a lot of press this week for Larry Johnson.  The Jags suffered a tough loss by the Tennessee Titans. I doubt that this will happen again but there will certainly be a blackout by the Jags fans.  JAX 31-21 

Carolina (3-4) at New Orleans (7-0)- Oh this is a laughable game. I dont care that the Carolina offense looked awesome last week because the Saints secondary is the best part of their defense.  Not good at all Jake Delhomme.  NO 38-14 

Detroit (1-6) at Seattle (2-5)- Yikes another snoozer and the Lions have to be back in the dumps after losing to the Rams last week at home.  The Seahawks seem to not be able to stop anybody but I like the home team to take care of business in this one.  SEA 31-17 

Tennessee (1-6) at San Francisco (3-4)- The Niners have been running into a bad streak of luck and they need this win more than Rex Ryan needs a cheeseburger.  The Titans main goal is to run the ball which the Niners are very good at stopping, not good.  SF 24-13 

San Diego (4-3) at NY Giants (5-3)- Huge Huge Huge game.  The Chargers need this win.  The Giants need this win.  This should be a classic but like I have been noticing lately is the Giants cannot stop the pass. Despite the weather, I think Rivers will lead them to victory.  SD 34-28 

Dallas (5-2) at Philadelphia (5-2)- I have no idea who will win this game. The Cowboys seem to be for real but Tony Romo always seems to choke when it matters. The Eagles finally have WR's but the Eagles never seem consistent in the last couple of years.  David Akers kicks a field goal late.  PHI 20-17 

Pittsburgh (5-2) at Denver (6-1)- Big time Monday Night Football matchup where the Steelers will know if they need a win to keep pace with the Bengals. I think people are still not believing in the Broncos. I like the homefield advantage, I think the crowd will be jacked and Big Ben will have problems moving around.  DEN 16-10 

-Charlie.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

NCAA Picks Week 10: Time to Realize

Not a real creative title.  I apologize but honestly, I think it is time for me to realize in my picks that upsets really aren't happening this year.  There is separation from the unbeatens and the others in the Top 25.  Plus there is another separation between the Top 25 and the other teams in the NCAA. 

1. Florida-vs. Vanderbilt- The Gators know they have locked down the SEC East already and they really will not have an issue with Vandy even without the quarterback of their defense Brandon Spikes.  UF 35-7

2. Texas-vs. UCF- The Longhorns seem to have a lot of cupcakes this year and they better blow out the Golden Knights because if they do not, I think they will be third again in the BCS.  The Longhorns seem to be improving every week so I do not see why they will not dominate.  TEXAS 45-10 

3. Alabama-vs. 9. LSU- The Tide hasn't been the Tigers in Tuscaloosa in 10 years and LSU has progressivly got better in the past couple of weeks.  I agree with the analysts that LSU quarterback Jarod Jefferson will be the difference.  Defense ball game with the Tide winning it due to Mark Ingram.  BAMA 16-10

4. Iowa-vs. Northwestern- The Hawkeyes have been labelded the "Comeback kids" after coming back in four games this year.  Kirk Ferentz has said the ranking doesnt fit and everyone else is too.  I think you see a big game out of the Hawkeyes because nothing I hate more than the Wildcats system of alternating quarterbacks.  IOWA 41-14  

5. Cincinnati-vs. UCONN- The Bearcats are on the national stage for all of us to see how they do against a Big East foe.  They still do not have Tony Pike but that hasn't really stopped them.  I think the Huskies get up for this one but it will be too much offense by the fourth quarter.  CINCY 34-24

6. TCU-at San Diego St.- The Horned Frogs have been awesome so far on the defensive end and they really have been doing all the right things.  Granted, I still do not think they deserve to be in the same league as Florida, Bama, Texas, and Iowa.  The Aztecs suck too by the way.  TCU 49-6

7. Boise State-at Lousiana Tech- People might think of this as an upset because of the extensive travel and Tech wanting to break the Broncos season.  It will not happened because the Bulldogs are not very good. I expect an inspired first half then its downhill after that.  BOISE 42-16

8. Oregon-at Stanford- "Chucks Corner Upset Alert" a couple of reasons why... ESPN has been hyping the Ducks hard and you know they are hearing all of that.  Plus you have the letdown factor against USC.  I think their defense will be too good for the Cardinal but it will be a close game.  ORE 17-14

9. LSU-SEE 3. Alabama

10. Georgia Tech-vs. Wake Forest- The Yellow Jackets have been moving up the charts with the great play of running back Jonathan Dwyer and they are playing a Wake team who probably should have won last week. Riley Skinner is banged up and Georgia Tech is at home.  GT 28-20

11. Penn State-vs. 16. Ohio State- The Nittany Lions could end the Buckeyes hopes of going to the Rose Bowl if they win and I am still not impressed with the Buckeyes.  The Nittany Lions defense is hungry and I think Daryll Clark wants this game bad.  PSU 20-13 

12. USC-at Arizona State- The Trojans try to bounce back in desert this week and the Sun Devils haven't been good like in the last couple of years. I see the Trojans bounce back nicely in this one.  USC 31-14

13. Pittsburgh-vs. Syracuse- The Panthers have bolted up the BCS and the Cincy-Pitt game is looming large in the next couple of weeks.  They have a freshman stud running back in Dion Harris and the Cuse struggled against the Bearcats. I do not foresee a close game in this one.  PITT 38-17 

14. Utah-vs. New Mexico- The Lobos have not won a game this year.  Rut roh.  This doesn't deserve any more talk about it.  UTAH 41-0 

15. Houston-at Tulsa- Should be a good C-USA battle. Both are two good teams and I was stunned to see Casey Keenum dropped 559 yards passing last weekend.  I think the Cougars offense will be too much for the Golden Hurricane.  HOU 42-31 

16. Ohio State-SEE 11. Penn State

17. Miami-vs. Virginia- The Hurricanes pulled one out of their asses last weekend. I really thought the playcalling was shotty at best down the stretch.  They are lucky to win last week but the Cavs aren't a good team. The U will roll.  MIA 31-9 

18. Arizona-vs. Wash. State- I cannot believe how bad the Cougars are.  They would even take Ryan Leaf back as quarterback now that might help out things.  The Cats will take care of business.  ZONA 52-3 

19. Oklahoma State-at Iowa State- The Cowboys laid a complete egg at home last weekend and now they travel for rather chilly game so far. The Cyclones are in the very weak Big 12 North and I think this one will pull away from Iowa State.  OSU 31-21 

20. California-vs. Oregon State- A good battle between Jacquizz Rodgers and Jahvid Best at the running back position.  It will probably be a clock management game between these two teams and Cal will hit a late FG to win it.  CAL 23-20 

21. Wisconsin-at Indiana- Good to see the Badgers back in the BCS and they have been hanging around the fourth spot in the Big 10.  Indiana seems lost and they cannot hold a lead.  This team is in a bad place and the Badger defense has been strong in the past couple of weeks.  UW 28-10 

22. Notre Dame-vs. Navy- The last time the Navel Academy came to South Bend, they knocked them off but not this time.  People are starting to realize that Jimmy Clausen deserves the Heisman so far and they will have full control of this game.  ND 34-7 

23. Virigina Tech- at East Carolina- The usual Thursday night game and this one brings back memories of the first week of the season last year where the Pirates upset the Hokies.  I do not for see that happening this year because ECU struggled against good teams this year so far losing by 10+ points.  VT 28-17

24. Oklahoma-at Nebraska- A classic rivalry that we do not see enough.  The Cornhuskers need to make a statement that the Big 12 North can compete with the other divison.  I will give them the benefit of the doubt and pull this one out at home.  NEB 24-21 

-Charlie.

Brandon Spikes: WWE Wrestler or Middle Linebacker?

If you haven't been watching ESPN in the last couple of days, you probably haven't seen the Brandon Spikes eye gouge against Georgia.  That led to the half-game suspension against Vanderbilt this weekend and it has drawn ire from the sports media.  To me, that is completely ridiculous.  I think the Captian Insano eye gouge is nothing to bat an eye at. 

Why do people not realize that this happens all the effin time in football?  If you do not think Ray Lewis, Patrick Willis, Taylor Mays, whoever other physical defenders play dirty?  You are out of mind.  Al Harris is known to be a dirty player and it's not a media topic for Skip Bayless to debate about.  I believe the reason is because it's college football and it is suppose to be a pure sport. It has to be because I can find no other reason for media heads to be mad at Spikes for doing this.  He has now said that he will sit out the entire game to avoid distraction... thanks again media. 

The ultimate crazy thing about this whole ordeal is the fact that the Georgia running back who got his eyes gouged as if he was Bret Hart in the late 80s said this isnt a big deal... this how Georgia-Florida football goes.  My God, even that guy understands that a simple eye gouge is not the end of the world.  Spikes only got the suspension because the heat of the media and Florida knowing their SEC fans not wearing blue/orange would complain of favoritism.  

-Charlie.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Will the Yankees Choke?

I honestly think this is the jinx probably and the Yankees will steamroll against Pedro Martinez tonight. But for the fun of it, let’s just talk about the World Series, since I haven't talked at all about it. I think it's been a good playoffs so far, and I think this has been the most intriguing World Series in about five years. Which hopefully will bring baseball back somewhat, but how epic would it be if the Yankees choke?

I wrote earlier this summer how I like the fact when the big time sports teams are on top because you had someone to root against in every postseason. The Yankees have that swagger, we all know and hate with the arrogance of A-Rod (although what he has done this postseason is one of the best that I have seen in my first time), Derek Jeter, and Mark Teixerira. I loved to see the Yankees fall apart because I remember seeing Mariano Rivera blow Game 7 against Arizona in 2002, which probably was the special moment of my baseball watching.

The one thing I think you have to worry about is Brad Lidge. He could blow it against a la Mitch Williams in 1993. Lidge is a complete problem for the Phillies and I said earlier this summer, that "if Charlie Manuel was the Brewers coach, Derrick Turnbow would still be our closer." The Phillies have to hope that if they want to win this series, they need to have at least a four run lead going into the ninth.

I think tonight will be an absolute shoot-out. It will be around 10-9 final because I think both of these pitchers will struggle tonight. The point I made about Brett Favre about being old is the exact same thing with both of these guys. Three days rest is so hard to come by when you are an old pitchers. If any older pitcher were to do it, Andy Pettitte would be the one to do it. The man is clutch, more than Johnny Moxson on a fourth quarter drive.

The only reason why I would hate to see the Yankee lose? If CC Sabathia ended up blowing Game 7, I would be crushed for him. He is a class act and despite leaving the Milwaukee Brewers, he still a stand-up guy. I think his career is never the same if CC loses Game 7.

-Charlie.

My College Football Proposal

My friend and avid Iowa Hawkeye football supporter JS sent me an article done by Pat Forde who I normally enjoy reading especially the "Forde Yard Dash", a weekly column about College Football/Basketball. To paraphrase what he said, he really doesn't believe in what Iowa has done and he feels that all the unbeatens including Oregon should be higher than the Hawkeyes. Kirk Herbstreit said that Big 10 is an inferior conference today on Mike and Mike in the Morning. I have no idea how that’s possible because I think this has been the Big 10's most competitive year in awhile. I honestly believe they need to have twelve teams to be respected; therefore I have a great suggestion.

MOVE: Iowa State to the Big 10- I think the Cyclones would be helped out by moving them out of the horrendous Big 12 North and putting them into the Big 10. They are not great but I think the Big Ten thing will move them in terms of recruiting for football, maybe not basketball. Then the conferences break down looks like this and by the way, I am coming up with random division titles. If you have a suggestion for me, let me know.

Hayden Fry Division: Iowa, Iowa State, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Penn State- I know that seems random to throw the Nittany Lions in there but honestly if you put OSU, Michigan, and PSU in the same division basically the same Big 12 dilemma.

Woody Hayes Division: Ohio State, Michigan, Michigan State, Northwestern, Purdue, Indiana- You could say this will be a top-heavy division but Purdue has good years once in while same with Michigan State. The Buckeyes may run the table but then they still play Penn State, Iowa, or Wisconsin.

Big 10 Championship: Rotates in Lambeau, Solider Field, Metrodome, Ford Field, Lucas Oil Stadium.

Now for the Big 12, I understand that people keep these teams in the division geographically but honestly, why does this need to happen? We all know there are about six real student-athletes and then they all just go along for the ride

Johnny Rodgers Division: Nebraska, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Missouri, Kansas, Kansas State- Thats a pretty competitive and solid division because you include a bunch of rivalries plus there will be parody.

Earl Campbell Division: Texas, Texas Tech, Texas A&M, TCU, Baylor, Colorado- Yes this could be the battle of Texas, but honestly, this would be a great division with rivalries. The Horned Frogs could gain recruiting big time when they just the Big 12.

I might be wrong and this might seem out there, yet I hope something changes for the Big 10. People need to realize that this isn't your dad's Big 10. There is a need for a change, something has to happened.


-Charlie.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Favre Strikes Again

People hyped up the game from the start of the signing of Brett Favre to the Minnesota Vikings was the return to Lambeau Field.  Nobody had any idea what kind of reception Favre was going to receive and I truly do not believe many Packer fans thought we will going to lose on Sunday, especially after losing to the Vikes earlier on in the year. I made a couple of quotes the first time around and I think they still stand true today. 

"Don't worry Packer fans its only Game Four. Two back in the division in October doesn't mean as much as November." - Well now its November and it means a hell of a lot more that we lost. We are now two games back virtually out of the division hunt and now battling the likes of Dallas/Philadelphia/Atlanta/NY Giants for the Wild Card spots.  The NFC will not be decided until the final week of the season, I will tell you that much.  After Minnesota and New Orleans, there hasn't been a legit team in NFC.  There are a lot of good teams but I really feel the Saints hold the claim of being a great team. 

Remember, no quarterback at the age of 40 has won a playoff game ever -  That serves as fair warning to any of you Viking fans or Packer non-believers out there.  Yes, they do not play any cold weather games but the fact of matter is the old age catches up to you.  Favre will have those weeks where he will look like complete dogshit.  I will make this claim right now, not a chance in hell does he take the Vikes to the Super Bowl.  If that happens, I will probably drown myself in nacho cheese because everything I preached in the past two years would be a lie. 

The game sucked yes.  But I am not falling off the wagon, believing the Packers will be 8-8.  You are crazy if you think believe that.  They have three extremely tough games against Pittsburgh, Baltimore, and Dallas.  I think T.J. Lang will be a household name by the end of the year, and I firmly believe that Mike McCarthy will find his head out of his ass.  Maybe I am just a wishful thinker but man, you gotta believe.

-Charlie.

The Ruins Run-Down With Coach (Everything Goes Back to Evan)


Alright we haven't had one of these in awhile so we welcome back Coach to the Corner.  For some discussion about Favre, Halloween, and the Ruins of course.  This will be long and I didn't feel like splitting it.

Coach: Chuck
Chuck: Coach

Coach:  How is Vikings land...are you ready to win Favre-ageddon this Sunday?
Chuck:  It’s good right now, I would say its 70-30 Packer fans up here we will run the streets though Sunday Night when the Pack wins (NOTE: This didn’t happen sadly, more to come on that later)
Coach:  You are on the front lines in the war on terror a lot of insurgents up in those parts
Chuck:  That I am, speaking of war on terror, I saw the trailer for 24 during the World Series
Coach:  So did I...I was in a bar and gave like 8 high fives, people thought I was excited about the Yankees
Chuck:  Haha, hell no all about jack
Coach:  Nope...I was excited about the return of god in January
Chuck:  So last night, I went to a party that a. I wasn't supposed to be at because I'm not in their organization, b. was a theme party of "CEO and Office Hoes, and I showed up in like a long-sleeve shirt, jeans... people are like why aren’t you dressed up? Simply put, "Well its Casual Friday at my office
Coach:  WOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Chuck:  Probably one of my finest moments this semester

Coach:  So classy....just like when in college I stole tucker max's costume idea and went to the Halloween party for soph-senior year with a red beauty pageant sash that simply just said gods gift
Chuck:  That's great, I honestly don't have an idea for this year and might just do that... I’m not lying either (Note to Coach’s dismay, I didn’t do it. Couldn’t find a sash and the fabric just didn’t work. I went as Capt. Mismatch it scored 3’s from the French judges.
Coach:  Well chuck...that would be epic and the honey bees just flock to you in that costume...it's like fishing with dynamite

Coach:  Well let’s get to the ruins
Chuck:  Yes sir
Coach:  First of all...I don’t even know where to start there was so much gold in these two episodes first ...the Tonya incident
Chuck:  Will we see Tonya on Intervention in a couple months?
Coach:  I think she is willing to make money in the role of crazy drunk / slut...so I give it a 60/40 odds, I mean Jesus Christ but looking at the fight

Chuck:  She just hit her with a vicious slap
Coach:  A few things stick out in my mind...first the slap was awesome
Chuck:  How did Veronica not have a boob escape from that dress?
Coach:  Well I was surprised by that...but what I loved is that they let them fight and then Wes dives in and couldn’t get it broken up
Chuck:  It was like on an African Safari just watching two lions going at it, nobody really cares, it took about three or four of the guys to break that shit up

Coach:  Well the highlight to me was Evan, I mean what a d bag, he's the one that starts the fight pretty much and then at the end he’s trying to play like priest / social worker
Chuck:  Yes he does light the fire for it and then tells Veronica to leave like he's Tonya BFF
Coach:  I really hate Evan...first of all when he and Johnny were in the bunk bed together discussing strategy that was all I needed to see
Chuck:  I think Evan had the quote of the year though next episode which we will get to later
Coach:  Oh yeah...yeah that was classic but I still think the guy is a putz
Chuck:  He just thinks he's the man

Coach:  Derrick also had a sweet quote about the Wes loss I will say this… I am not a huge Wes fan I like him on the challenges but he’s all an act what I do like though is that he can’t stay in character
Chuck:  I guess I can understand that and he really bitched out after Johanna said she would take that money away
Coach:  I mean one of the only people to ever lose with class on the challenge???
Chuck:  Yeah he really did, he admitted he lost and walked off
Coach:  It’s just to keep getting invited back I think he plays a game of how much shit can I talk to that people hate me
Chuck:  Well I appreciate it because I cannot stand Kenny, hate him worse than anyone on the show
Coach:  Yes Kenny is a total d bag

Coach:  But I really have to say that Evan really should take a swift kick in the gonads for his stunt on ibis
Chuck:  Yes but at the same time, can you blame him? If I am in Evan position, do I really pass up the opportunity to keep nailing Veronica? I don’t think I do
Coach:  I mean let’s look at the just debacle
Chuck:  The biggest voting crisis sine 2000
Coach:  Easily, I mean that was unbelievable, Evan who always is working the polls and setting things up...drops the ball
Chuck:  Syrus/Derrick/Darrell weren’t informed at all
Coach:  Well...can you really blame derrick
Chuck:  Derrick is so concussed from all the shit he's done, I really cant
Coach:  If he’s not in it you know he is knocking back oil cans of PBR, Heineken or whatever they get for free

Coach:  But I mean again I go back to hating Evan, he is the kind of guy that would ask you to be wing man...would see the other chick is hotter and then try to screw you over, I mean...the first time he votes for ibis????? It was his plan
Chuck:  Yes he is what we called up here in EC a snake. Just snakes around looking for his best option, not really telling people what he's really got on his mind

Chuck:  Another key subplot in all of this... Johnny Bananas, the other tool just goes "Fuck it, Ibis-Kimberly, he just completely lost it
Coach:  Again...a total moron

Coach:  That is why I think they need to come up with a challenge called like...playground or war games or something and have Johnny Kenny and Evan be captains and pick the teams on the fly
Chuck:  Do they vote them off or are there challenges to see who gets voted off? I think it would be awesome if Evan/Kenny/Johnny had to vote their players off themselves, so many people would try to get ahead in the game then
Coach:  I mean...you watch those 3 circle jerk each other all the time...and like I said in one of the most homoerotic moments ever when they were up in the bunk bed with the blankets pulled over talking about how in the end it had to be them together
Chuck:  Yeah they think they are the best generals in the game and when really they lost it mentally i.e. last week and then its all downhill
Coach:  Well...I mean you get down to it the challenges are the best and they talk like its all about money and winning and all that but in the end Evan votes Ibis in cause he likes veronica donk and tat-tas

Chuck:  I think in the coming weeks you see Darrell just coming in hot because honestly he is the most athletic guy out there
Coach:  Remember when Alton was on the show he was like the MJ of the challenges
Chuck:  Yes dominated everyone
Coach:  Darrell is not there but I think out of this group he has to be the big dog of it all
Chuck:  Agreed but he has never lost in the challenges

Coach:  Another thing really bothering me, the ruins themselves. I want more gladiator type stuff. I mean I think it’s rigged, they don’t even pick a card or spin a wheel or anything anymore with TJ, it’s just here we go
Chuck:  Yeah it’s getting very suspicious
Coach:  I mean if they do anything physically competitive Wes wins but not that over under with a rope isn’t challenge but its more a mental challenge / endurance test
Chuck:  Like last year I believe, it was when the gay guy went up against Wes or someone of that nature had a physical football like game and the guy got HIS ASS KICKED
Coach:  I know...those were the way things should be settled and: I think after stuff like that and ct going nuts they kind of realized someone could die in one of these and scaled back
Chuck:  Although we had a physical challenge this week finally and they need to get back to challenge that either involve barely any clothing or beating the shit out of each other

Coach: I liked it...listen make them beat the hell out of each other...other than the challenges they just drink and hang out...lets at least come out of there with a few war wounds. Don’t get me wrong they having a winning formula… drink a ton...cause drama...and then watching meatheads and sluts compete in challenges and I will probably watch until I am in the retirement home...then it will be pre-programmed Matlock or something

Coach:  Well...what about derricks line...this is why I give him the man of the week. First of all it was like he had the nuclear suitcase
Coach:  When he was asked to come in blind and vote and I mean he was so confused
Chuck:  Yes he looked like a lost dog
Coach:  Then his comment about Cohutta winning... “This was epic...if he wins this it will go down in challenge history"
Chuck:  Derrick believed that ESPN Classic has the film ready
Coach:  Like some day people will open up an US history book and be like...main remember on the ruins when Wes lost to Cohutta? Derrick = man of the week
Chuck:  Easily, also on Facebook I called it "Buster Douglas beating Tyson"
Coach:  I like it...I mean that was a huge upset… a huge upset
Chuck:  Oh yeah and it’s a somewhat even the playing field, now its 9 to 7

Coach:  Plus the real slap in the balls to Wes is that his girlfriend seemed sad...but not really
Chuck:  Yeah I said to my roommate how great it would be if she just bones Cohutta in the next couple of weeks… he just looks at me and goes we can only hope
Coach: I mean you remember last year when Kim lost and had to go home and Dunbar wouldn’t talk to anyone and cried
Chuck: Yes the roids obviously weren’t cycling
Coach:  That was emotion...and he had only made out with her a few times...and here's Wes losing and she’s just kind of like...I’m sad but oh well. I think the challenger team once they get rid of Casey is in a good position
Chuck:  Yeah Brad will beat most in challenges, same with Dunbar, they might just keep going to Cohutta

Coach:  Also...d-bag of the week is Benedict Arnold = Evan
Chuck:  Wes despite the great quote, he just sucks and I have done a complete 180 on Evan
Coach:  Well I think he’s the type of guy that I would legit hate in real life real cocky...talks shit...and like I said based on this website I read...total liar
Chuck:  Yeah I agree, I can’t seem to enjoy having a conversation with him about anything he would be like "Dude, most of the girls I have fooled around with blah blah blah."

Coach:  I am giving woman of the week to Kim, mainly because she is hot
Chuck:  Veronica comes in a close second for seeing her in that bikini which should be a requirement every week

Chuck:  Yes, I think Kim a girl I would bring home to Deb, nice southern accent, seems like she keeps her self together
Coach:  Might not want to mention this to Deb though...in the past challenge on one of the after shows she talks about how after she dated Dunbar he made her enjoy giving hummers, again...I love the after shows
Chuck: Well... we won’t go down that road, I really need to start watching them more often
Coach: My god, the after shows might be as good as the actual show

Chuck: I also have roommates who denounce it YET still watch with me and my other roommate every week
Coach:  You always get those types...the closet fan
Chuck:  I take that back, three of us are big fans, the rest act as if they don’t like it but every week they don’t complain about watching it, just maybe one or two words before it starts
Coach:  I have never met anyone that actually cannot sit down and enjoy and hour of the challenges
Chuck:  Doz fits that profile too he knows he likes it, just doesn’t want to conform


That’s all for this week, more to come next week.