The weekend is here so we start with a group of football and basketball picks for you to use or mock later....
College Football
New Mexico Bowl: Wyoming d. Temple
Idaho Potato Bowl: Ohio d. Utah St.
New Orleans Bowl: LA-Lafayette d. San Diego St.
College Basketball
BYU d. (6) Baylor
Notre Dame d. (17) Indiana
(19) Illinois d. UNLV
(13) Florida d. (22) Texas A&M
Indiana St. d. (25) Vanderbilt
Kansas St. d. (23) Alabama
Nine picks to see how close I can be today, sports thoughts tonight.....
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Friday, December 16, 2011
Friday Night Thoughts
Getting late on this Friday, here's what is happening.....
- The sad story of Bears WR Sam Hurd gets worse for Hurd as he was put on waivers by Chicago Friday. It's his own fault if all this drug talk is true but still not good for a player that was probably just hanging on anyway.
- The one-game suspension of Steelers LB James Harrison was upheld by the league. Harrison will sit out Monday night's game at San Francisco. Maybe he will learn at some point that he has to play by the NFL's rules, even though they aren't good rules.
- A bad week for Kobe Bryant continued when his wife filed for divorce. I would have thought she would have done that after his cheating in Colorado a few years back but she held on for this long. What worse thing could he have done?
- In baseball news, the Rockies signed former Twin Michael Cuddyer. A great signing of a player who can play almost anywhere on the diamond. Also helps that he can hit some and in that ballpark, he will definitely do that.
- Barry Bonds got his sentence Friday from the BALCO case, being sentenced to two years probation and 30 days house arrest. Doesn't seem like a huge punishment for perjury but at least it is something. Bonds may have slipped through the cracks with MLB and not the court system.
- Also in the courts, the two former Penn State officials charged with perjury can stand trial. It was nice to finally see Mike McQueary come out of the woodwork to make a statement about what he saw. Might have helped the kid out if he would have done something right away instead of calling his father up first.
That will do it for tonight, prediction Saturday comes in the morning....
- The sad story of Bears WR Sam Hurd gets worse for Hurd as he was put on waivers by Chicago Friday. It's his own fault if all this drug talk is true but still not good for a player that was probably just hanging on anyway.
- The one-game suspension of Steelers LB James Harrison was upheld by the league. Harrison will sit out Monday night's game at San Francisco. Maybe he will learn at some point that he has to play by the NFL's rules, even though they aren't good rules.
- A bad week for Kobe Bryant continued when his wife filed for divorce. I would have thought she would have done that after his cheating in Colorado a few years back but she held on for this long. What worse thing could he have done?
- In baseball news, the Rockies signed former Twin Michael Cuddyer. A great signing of a player who can play almost anywhere on the diamond. Also helps that he can hit some and in that ballpark, he will definitely do that.
- Barry Bonds got his sentence Friday from the BALCO case, being sentenced to two years probation and 30 days house arrest. Doesn't seem like a huge punishment for perjury but at least it is something. Bonds may have slipped through the cracks with MLB and not the court system.
- Also in the courts, the two former Penn State officials charged with perjury can stand trial. It was nice to finally see Mike McQueary come out of the woodwork to make a statement about what he saw. Might have helped the kid out if he would have done something right away instead of calling his father up first.
That will do it for tonight, prediction Saturday comes in the morning....
It's Friday....
We have made it to Friday, a look at what's up....
- The Falcons got a solid hold on a playoff spot in the NFL with a dominating 41-14 win over the Jaguars Thursday night. One player that was invisible most of the season but has come alive in recent weeks is Roddy White. White had 10 catches and two touchdowns in the win as Atlanta improved to 9-5. I think that win clinched Atlanta's ticket to the playoffs. The Bears and Lions aren't going to catch them now.
- The Penn State story continues today as former athletic director Tim Curley and former vice president Gary Schultz are in court to fight perjury charges. A sad state of affairs in Happy Valley. Let's just hope it all gets figured out sooner than later.
- There are reports this morning that the Blue Jays made a bid of over $40 million on Yu Darvish and that was probably enough to win the bidding for the Japanese star pitcher. That would be a tall task for any AL East team to face Darvish and the 6'5" pitcher wouldn't even have to move to the United States.
- An interesting storyline is developing in Indianapolis with the Colts and Peyton Manning. Indy is assured of the No. 1 pick in the 2012 Draft and there is no doubt they will take Stanford QB Andrew Luck. Where does that leave Manning though? Does he stay and mentor the new kid? Does he ask for a trade to clear the path for Luck? I'm thinking Manning wants nothing to do with having a possible star on the roster with him and will ask out.
- It's a light morning so let's discuss four high school students being suspended for doing Tim Tebow's famous pose at school. If the kids are trying to be like Tebow, let them. It could be a lot worse.
- Last, I would like to talk about the new NFL TV deals a bit...I think we are heading towards Thursday Night games each week of the season for one and wouldn't be surprised if a weekly Saturday game is added. Saturday games showed up a lot on schedules in recent years in the final weeks of the season when college football was done. Why not do it again? Also, I like the switches possible to make the best games to another network if blocked by another great game. More viewers is more money for the NFL. Finally, all three Thanksgiving games on where people can watch them. The NFL can now control the whole holiday, a win-win for everyone.
That's the story for now, trivia later and more sports thoughts tonight....
- The Falcons got a solid hold on a playoff spot in the NFL with a dominating 41-14 win over the Jaguars Thursday night. One player that was invisible most of the season but has come alive in recent weeks is Roddy White. White had 10 catches and two touchdowns in the win as Atlanta improved to 9-5. I think that win clinched Atlanta's ticket to the playoffs. The Bears and Lions aren't going to catch them now.
- The Penn State story continues today as former athletic director Tim Curley and former vice president Gary Schultz are in court to fight perjury charges. A sad state of affairs in Happy Valley. Let's just hope it all gets figured out sooner than later.
- There are reports this morning that the Blue Jays made a bid of over $40 million on Yu Darvish and that was probably enough to win the bidding for the Japanese star pitcher. That would be a tall task for any AL East team to face Darvish and the 6'5" pitcher wouldn't even have to move to the United States.
- An interesting storyline is developing in Indianapolis with the Colts and Peyton Manning. Indy is assured of the No. 1 pick in the 2012 Draft and there is no doubt they will take Stanford QB Andrew Luck. Where does that leave Manning though? Does he stay and mentor the new kid? Does he ask for a trade to clear the path for Luck? I'm thinking Manning wants nothing to do with having a possible star on the roster with him and will ask out.
- It's a light morning so let's discuss four high school students being suspended for doing Tim Tebow's famous pose at school. If the kids are trying to be like Tebow, let them. It could be a lot worse.
- Last, I would like to talk about the new NFL TV deals a bit...I think we are heading towards Thursday Night games each week of the season for one and wouldn't be surprised if a weekly Saturday game is added. Saturday games showed up a lot on schedules in recent years in the final weeks of the season when college football was done. Why not do it again? Also, I like the switches possible to make the best games to another network if blocked by another great game. More viewers is more money for the NFL. Finally, all three Thanksgiving games on where people can watch them. The NFL can now control the whole holiday, a win-win for everyone.
That's the story for now, trivia later and more sports thoughts tonight....
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Thursday night ramblings
A busy Thursday in the world of sports, here's a look...
- I start tonight with the stupidity of Bears WR Sam Hurd. Hurd was arrested and remains in jail tonight after he allegedly attempted to buy over half a million dollars in cocaine and marijuana from a supplier in North Texas. Words can't even start to explain how dumb you would have to be to do that, if Hurd did. Any pro athlete who would pull something like that needs an one-way ticket out of the league.
- I move on now to the world of IndyCar where the accident that killed Dan Wheldon to end last season was a "perfect storm". Wheldon hit his head on a pole that held the fencing up around the track. A very sad story and a great example of why race car driving is always a dangerous thing to do.
- A concussion has once again ended a season early for a NHL player as Flyers defenseman Chris Pronger will sit out the rest of the season with post-concussion symptoms. Hockey is a violent sport in its nature and big-time hits are a part of the game but when a lot of your major names are sitting on the bench, it hurts the game. I've talked about Sidney Crosby in the past, don't know what to fix but something has to.
- A commentary on Los Angeles pro basketball and things that may be happening. Rumors are swirling now that Kobe Bryant is upset over recent events with the Lakers and may want out. The Clippers have got a lot better with Chris Paul but are still not a dominant team with just two stars. Will the battles at the Staples Center be better? Yes but I don't think Kobe has anything to worry about.
- With the recent warmer weather in the country, thoughts head toward baseball and that spring training is only 2 months away. It appears one team is trying real hard to get their fans back on board. The Cubs put in a claim on Yu Darvish and reports state they are about to go hard after Prince Fielder. If both happen, I don't see any reason why the North Siders don't win the NL Central.
- Last a reminder that college bowl season starts this Saturday with three games. I will have predictions the day of each game for you if you want to use them for your bowl pool in your office or wherever you are playing at.
That's it for tonight, more in the morning.....
- I start tonight with the stupidity of Bears WR Sam Hurd. Hurd was arrested and remains in jail tonight after he allegedly attempted to buy over half a million dollars in cocaine and marijuana from a supplier in North Texas. Words can't even start to explain how dumb you would have to be to do that, if Hurd did. Any pro athlete who would pull something like that needs an one-way ticket out of the league.
- I move on now to the world of IndyCar where the accident that killed Dan Wheldon to end last season was a "perfect storm". Wheldon hit his head on a pole that held the fencing up around the track. A very sad story and a great example of why race car driving is always a dangerous thing to do.
- A concussion has once again ended a season early for a NHL player as Flyers defenseman Chris Pronger will sit out the rest of the season with post-concussion symptoms. Hockey is a violent sport in its nature and big-time hits are a part of the game but when a lot of your major names are sitting on the bench, it hurts the game. I've talked about Sidney Crosby in the past, don't know what to fix but something has to.
- A commentary on Los Angeles pro basketball and things that may be happening. Rumors are swirling now that Kobe Bryant is upset over recent events with the Lakers and may want out. The Clippers have got a lot better with Chris Paul but are still not a dominant team with just two stars. Will the battles at the Staples Center be better? Yes but I don't think Kobe has anything to worry about.
- With the recent warmer weather in the country, thoughts head toward baseball and that spring training is only 2 months away. It appears one team is trying real hard to get their fans back on board. The Cubs put in a claim on Yu Darvish and reports state they are about to go hard after Prince Fielder. If both happen, I don't see any reason why the North Siders don't win the NL Central.
- Last a reminder that college bowl season starts this Saturday with three games. I will have predictions the day of each game for you if you want to use them for your bowl pool in your office or wherever you are playing at.
That's it for tonight, more in the morning.....
Trivia Answer: Thursday, Dec. 15
The answer is......the Milwaukee Bucks, who defeated the Lakers 120-104 on Jan. 9, 1972. The Lakers would go on to win the NBA Title in winning a then-record 69 games.
Sports analysis coming tonight....
Sports analysis coming tonight....
Trivia: Thursday, Dec. 15
Today's question is this.....what team broke the Los Angeles Lakers' 33-game winning streak in 1972?
Answer later....
Answer later....
Thursday morning thoughts
It's early and it's time for a look at what's going on or about to go on....
- This new amnesty clause in the NBA deal is still odd to me. Last night, the Cavaliers used it to waive Baron Davis, who is still owed $27 million but the move gives Cleveland some salary cap relief. Maybe someone puts in a winning bid on a guy who is going to be out 8-10 weeks. Just something different to get used to.
- An interesting development in Indianapolis as Peyton Manning has begun throwing a football again according to coach Jim Caldwell. I honestly don't see the point in doing that this late in the season but it is surely part of his rehab from neck surgery. Could his pride of not being on a team that doesn't win a game be coming into play and he wants to play maybe in the final game of the season to get a win?
- The posting process for Japanese pitcher Yu Darvish ended Wednesday and we still don't know what team won the bidding. I would expect that it will take at least $90 million to sign Darvish in the combination of posting fees and a contract. My guess is the either the Rangers or Cubs won the bidding.
- Big NFL games this weekend and one tonight but Pittsburgh's Ben Roethlisberger is in a walking boot after his injury in last Thursday's win over the Browns. This game is huge for the Steelers on Monday night in San Francisco to try to hold on to hope of winning the AFC North and avoiding a likely first-round matchup in Denver with the Broncos. The way that injury looked, I'm shocked he has any chance of playing.
- In tonight's action, it's Jacksonville at Atlanta. The Falcons are clinging to a playoff spot and with the recent troubles of the Bears, it is logical to think that two wins out of three for Atlanta gets them in. The Jaguars played well last week especially Maurice Jones-Drew, who scored four times. However, I have to pick the Falcons at home with a 27-10 win.
- Last but not least, we are going to talk weather.....it's the middle of December and we haven't seen a single game played any sort of snow this season in the NFL. Blame global warming or whatever but there is just something magical at this time of year about a game in the snow. Doesn't help your fantasy team any but just a beautiful sight.
That's all for now, trivia later and more thoughts later on tonight.....
- This new amnesty clause in the NBA deal is still odd to me. Last night, the Cavaliers used it to waive Baron Davis, who is still owed $27 million but the move gives Cleveland some salary cap relief. Maybe someone puts in a winning bid on a guy who is going to be out 8-10 weeks. Just something different to get used to.
- An interesting development in Indianapolis as Peyton Manning has begun throwing a football again according to coach Jim Caldwell. I honestly don't see the point in doing that this late in the season but it is surely part of his rehab from neck surgery. Could his pride of not being on a team that doesn't win a game be coming into play and he wants to play maybe in the final game of the season to get a win?
- The posting process for Japanese pitcher Yu Darvish ended Wednesday and we still don't know what team won the bidding. I would expect that it will take at least $90 million to sign Darvish in the combination of posting fees and a contract. My guess is the either the Rangers or Cubs won the bidding.
- Big NFL games this weekend and one tonight but Pittsburgh's Ben Roethlisberger is in a walking boot after his injury in last Thursday's win over the Browns. This game is huge for the Steelers on Monday night in San Francisco to try to hold on to hope of winning the AFC North and avoiding a likely first-round matchup in Denver with the Broncos. The way that injury looked, I'm shocked he has any chance of playing.
- In tonight's action, it's Jacksonville at Atlanta. The Falcons are clinging to a playoff spot and with the recent troubles of the Bears, it is logical to think that two wins out of three for Atlanta gets them in. The Jaguars played well last week especially Maurice Jones-Drew, who scored four times. However, I have to pick the Falcons at home with a 27-10 win.
- Last but not least, we are going to talk weather.....it's the middle of December and we haven't seen a single game played any sort of snow this season in the NFL. Blame global warming or whatever but there is just something magical at this time of year about a game in the snow. Doesn't help your fantasy team any but just a beautiful sight.
That's all for now, trivia later and more thoughts later on tonight.....
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Wednesday night deep thoughts
A lot is going on, so let's get started....
- The Chris Paul ordeal is finally over as the NBA has agreed to allow the trade of the Hornets star point guard to the Clippers for three players and a very key draft pick, which will be discussed in a moment. The Clippers will also get two second-round picks. I'm just glad this is finally over and the focus can actually be on the game on the court starting Christmas Day.
- Now to that draft pick, New Orleans is getting Minnesota's 1st round pick in 2012. Why is this important? From all indications, the Timberwolves won't make the playoffs and could be one of the worst teams in the league meaning the Hornets could end up with two of the top picks in the 2012 draft. May be able to rebuild very quickly.
- While Paul is being traded, Dwight Howard won't be....for now. The Magic has decided to wait to see if the market heats up more for Howard and maybe wait until closer to the trade deadline. Orlando is the kind of team that could have used Paul or maybe another superstar to pair with Howard. No state tax in Florida should be a big selling point.
- On a much more serious note, Texans defensive coordinator Wade Phillips will undergo surgery for a kidney condition and will be away from the team for 7-10 days. Phillips has completely turned around Houston's defense, going from the worst last season to near the top this season. Wishes go out to Phillips for a speedy recovery.
- Also in the NFL, the league has renewed the TV deals with CBS, Fox and NBC through the 2022 season. A few changes are coming to your TV with this deal. First, the deal allows the NFL Network to expand their Thursday Night Football package. Sure seems like Thursday games are going to be all season long starting next season to me. The Thanksgiving night game will now be shown on NBC so all three Turkey Day games will be on free TV and flexible scheduling continues with a change. You may see AFC games on Fox and NFC games on CBS along with networks can not simulcast games online. Interesting developments to make the NFL viewer even more happy.
- In MLB news, the Red Sox traded Jed Lowrie to the Astros for closer Mark Melancon. Boston was in need of a closer after Jonathan Papelbon left to go to Philadelphia. I'm not sure Melancon will be the closer though next season. Ryan Madson, who was the Phillies' closer for most of last season, is still available. Melancon would be better-suited in a set-up role anyway. Boston isn't done with signings yet, trust me.
That's all for now......back in the morning.
- The Chris Paul ordeal is finally over as the NBA has agreed to allow the trade of the Hornets star point guard to the Clippers for three players and a very key draft pick, which will be discussed in a moment. The Clippers will also get two second-round picks. I'm just glad this is finally over and the focus can actually be on the game on the court starting Christmas Day.
- Now to that draft pick, New Orleans is getting Minnesota's 1st round pick in 2012. Why is this important? From all indications, the Timberwolves won't make the playoffs and could be one of the worst teams in the league meaning the Hornets could end up with two of the top picks in the 2012 draft. May be able to rebuild very quickly.
- While Paul is being traded, Dwight Howard won't be....for now. The Magic has decided to wait to see if the market heats up more for Howard and maybe wait until closer to the trade deadline. Orlando is the kind of team that could have used Paul or maybe another superstar to pair with Howard. No state tax in Florida should be a big selling point.
- On a much more serious note, Texans defensive coordinator Wade Phillips will undergo surgery for a kidney condition and will be away from the team for 7-10 days. Phillips has completely turned around Houston's defense, going from the worst last season to near the top this season. Wishes go out to Phillips for a speedy recovery.
- Also in the NFL, the league has renewed the TV deals with CBS, Fox and NBC through the 2022 season. A few changes are coming to your TV with this deal. First, the deal allows the NFL Network to expand their Thursday Night Football package. Sure seems like Thursday games are going to be all season long starting next season to me. The Thanksgiving night game will now be shown on NBC so all three Turkey Day games will be on free TV and flexible scheduling continues with a change. You may see AFC games on Fox and NFC games on CBS along with networks can not simulcast games online. Interesting developments to make the NFL viewer even more happy.
- In MLB news, the Red Sox traded Jed Lowrie to the Astros for closer Mark Melancon. Boston was in need of a closer after Jonathan Papelbon left to go to Philadelphia. I'm not sure Melancon will be the closer though next season. Ryan Madson, who was the Phillies' closer for most of last season, is still available. Melancon would be better-suited in a set-up role anyway. Boston isn't done with signings yet, trust me.
That's all for now......back in the morning.
Trivia Answer: Wednesday, Dec. 14
The answer is......Karl "Tuffy" Rhodes. Rhodes would hit just five more home runs that season for the Cubs and later would tie the Japanese single-season homerun record of 55 while playing. With his 3 HR performance, Rhodes became the first National League player to hit three homers on Opening Day.
Sports analysis from today coming later....
Sports analysis from today coming later....
Trivia: Wednesday, Dec. 14
Today's question is this......what former Cub hit 3 HRs on Opening Day 1994 against the Mets' Dwight Gooden?
Answer later....
Answer later....
Midweek Ramblings....
Wednesday has arrived, here is what's up....
- The Chris Paul saga lingers on as now the Lakers are still involved in potentially getting the New Orleans star. It seems like the league doesn't want to make any move on this or wants the world back in return kind of like the Herschel Walker trade from many years past where the Vikings basically gave away everything for Walker to the Cowboys. The Cowboys used all the draft picks to build a dynasty in the '90s. Who knows how this one will end.
- In another trade that drags on, ESPN reports this morning that the Nets and Magic are in serious discussions on a trade for Dwight Howard. The Portland Trail Blazers would also be involved and could receive multiple first-round picks if this happens. I thought the new CBA was to prevent all these big-time players from basically saying I've had enough here, I want a big-market team. I guess not.
- Other NBA news brings that the Nuggets have resigned Nene for 5 yrs/$67 million. Denver is still trying to get over Carmelo Anthony leaving during last season and couldn't lose Nene as well. However, this is another smaller market team so in the end, they probably won't have a chance at a NBA title.
- Moving to baseball, the Twins have signed OF Josh Willingham to a multi-year deal according to sources. Solid move for the Twinkies to put into a lineup with Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau when both are healthy. Keeps Minnesota competitive in the AL Central.
- Time to discuss the thing that is Tim Tebow. Yes, he has led the Broncos to a 7-1 record as a starter but has been horrible in the first three quarters of almost every game this season. There are people who would suggest he's a better running back than quarterback. That is true for now and maybe a full offseason can help him work on his throws. The media coverage is overblown with Tebow, the world doesn't revolve around him but for now, he's the story and takes a lot of pressure off the undefeated run of the Packers.
- Last item this morning involves former Braves closer John Rocker, who has admitted to taking steroids while on the team. Is it ironic that he is also selling a book right now so all these new things are coming out. We all know those drugs were all over baseball right after the strike and beyond as the game tried to rebuild itself. In Rocker's case, the way he was acting.....everyone had to have known.
That's all for now, back tonight with more....
- The Chris Paul saga lingers on as now the Lakers are still involved in potentially getting the New Orleans star. It seems like the league doesn't want to make any move on this or wants the world back in return kind of like the Herschel Walker trade from many years past where the Vikings basically gave away everything for Walker to the Cowboys. The Cowboys used all the draft picks to build a dynasty in the '90s. Who knows how this one will end.
- In another trade that drags on, ESPN reports this morning that the Nets and Magic are in serious discussions on a trade for Dwight Howard. The Portland Trail Blazers would also be involved and could receive multiple first-round picks if this happens. I thought the new CBA was to prevent all these big-time players from basically saying I've had enough here, I want a big-market team. I guess not.
- Other NBA news brings that the Nuggets have resigned Nene for 5 yrs/$67 million. Denver is still trying to get over Carmelo Anthony leaving during last season and couldn't lose Nene as well. However, this is another smaller market team so in the end, they probably won't have a chance at a NBA title.
- Moving to baseball, the Twins have signed OF Josh Willingham to a multi-year deal according to sources. Solid move for the Twinkies to put into a lineup with Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau when both are healthy. Keeps Minnesota competitive in the AL Central.
- Time to discuss the thing that is Tim Tebow. Yes, he has led the Broncos to a 7-1 record as a starter but has been horrible in the first three quarters of almost every game this season. There are people who would suggest he's a better running back than quarterback. That is true for now and maybe a full offseason can help him work on his throws. The media coverage is overblown with Tebow, the world doesn't revolve around him but for now, he's the story and takes a lot of pressure off the undefeated run of the Packers.
- Last item this morning involves former Braves closer John Rocker, who has admitted to taking steroids while on the team. Is it ironic that he is also selling a book right now so all these new things are coming out. We all know those drugs were all over baseball right after the strike and beyond as the game tried to rebuild itself. In Rocker's case, the way he was acting.....everyone had to have known.
That's all for now, back tonight with more....
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Tuesday night thinking...
Another day has passed, here is what's going down....
- The Steelers' James Harrison was suspended for one game by the NFL for his hit on Browns QB Colt McCoy Thursday night. While I like the hard-nosed play that Harrison likes to show and the fact it is old-school football, sometimes he goes a bit over the line. He won't learn but don't change your game, big guy. You are one of the few left who actually doesn't tippy-toe around.
- More details of the new MLB labor deal have become public and some interesting things come out of it. The fact divisional teams can now play before the league championship series is great. Means Red Sox-Yankees won't always be for the AL Title. Also, the All-Star break will be extended to four days with the chance the game could be moved to Wednesday in some years with the Home Run Derby on Tuesday. Different I must say, I like the longer break but don't move the game. Just play Tuesday and start games again on Friday.
- NBA players are not happy and now at least one is speaking out. The Celtics' Kevin Garnett has called out Commish David Stern for a "rushed" training camp. There is no doubt Garnett has a point, just 16 days from the start of training camp to the beginning of the season. Not enough time you would figure but the NBA needed games on Christmas for them to have any chance of keeping fans for what will be a roller coaster 66-game season.
- I usually don't bring up golf but you have to give props to Luke Donald for not only winning the PGA money title but the European Tour money tour as well. That's impressive to say the least....
- A little more NFL for you and especially to you fantasy football types, go pick up Felix Jones and especially James Jones from the Packers. Just saying...
- I'm a media guy and when I heard Craig James had decided to run for a Senate seat in Texas, I couldn't be more happy. ESPN would be better off without him anyway. Go pollute something else with your ideas on Boise State and the fact you ranked them 24th in your last vote.
That's all for tonight, more in the morning.....
- The Steelers' James Harrison was suspended for one game by the NFL for his hit on Browns QB Colt McCoy Thursday night. While I like the hard-nosed play that Harrison likes to show and the fact it is old-school football, sometimes he goes a bit over the line. He won't learn but don't change your game, big guy. You are one of the few left who actually doesn't tippy-toe around.
- More details of the new MLB labor deal have become public and some interesting things come out of it. The fact divisional teams can now play before the league championship series is great. Means Red Sox-Yankees won't always be for the AL Title. Also, the All-Star break will be extended to four days with the chance the game could be moved to Wednesday in some years with the Home Run Derby on Tuesday. Different I must say, I like the longer break but don't move the game. Just play Tuesday and start games again on Friday.
- NBA players are not happy and now at least one is speaking out. The Celtics' Kevin Garnett has called out Commish David Stern for a "rushed" training camp. There is no doubt Garnett has a point, just 16 days from the start of training camp to the beginning of the season. Not enough time you would figure but the NBA needed games on Christmas for them to have any chance of keeping fans for what will be a roller coaster 66-game season.
- I usually don't bring up golf but you have to give props to Luke Donald for not only winning the PGA money title but the European Tour money tour as well. That's impressive to say the least....
- A little more NFL for you and especially to you fantasy football types, go pick up Felix Jones and especially James Jones from the Packers. Just saying...
- I'm a media guy and when I heard Craig James had decided to run for a Senate seat in Texas, I couldn't be more happy. ESPN would be better off without him anyway. Go pollute something else with your ideas on Boise State and the fact you ranked them 24th in your last vote.
That's all for tonight, more in the morning.....
Trivia Answer: Tuesday, Dec. 13
Answer is...
2004- Detroit Pistons
2006- Miami Heat
2008- Boston Celtics
2011- Dallas Mavericks
Sports thoughts coming tonight.....
2004- Detroit Pistons
2006- Miami Heat
2008- Boston Celtics
2011- Dallas Mavericks
Sports thoughts coming tonight.....
Trivia: Tuesday, Dec. 13
Today's question is this.....In the last 20 years, just 4 years did a team other than the Lakers, Bulls, Rockets or Spurs win the NBA Title. What teams are years did it happen?
Answer later....
Answer later....
Time to open up Tuesday
A look at what is up this morning....
- There were thoughts that a preliminary hearing would expose us to some of the accusers of former Penn State coach Jerry Sandusky today but Sandusky decided to waive his hearing and move everything straight to trial. This is going to be a very long, painful case for the public to go through depending on how much we hear about it or don't want to hear about it. If he's guilty though, put him away for as long as possible.
- One thing that was thought to come out of the Penn State scandal was will the current recruits stay committed? Well, the Nittany Lions' top recruit has decided to go elsewhere as Tommy Schutt from the suburbs of Chicago changed his commitment to Ohio State over the weekend. Whoever takes over this program is going to have a TON of work to do to make it revelant in a good way again.
- In more positive college football news, the Mountain West Conference will ask for an automatic qualifier for the BCS for the 2012 and 2013 season. This is an obvious move to me as Boise State, which finished 7th in the BCS standings is not in one of those bowls while Michigan (13th), Clemson (15th) and West Virginia (23rd) are in. The conference champion route isn't working because if Alabama beats LSU, then the Crimson Tide will win the national title without even winning a conference title. Playoff, anyone?
- NFL-wise, the Seahawks destroyed the Rams on Monday night and are still in playoff contention with three weeks to play. Even though the 49ers have clinched the NFL West, Seattle and the Arizona Cardinals have each rallied to go to 6-7 on the year and are two games behind Detroit and Atlanta for the final playoff spot. Always good to keep hope up as long as possible and remember Seattle made the playoffs last season with a losing record and upset New Orleans in the playoffs.
- The firing train made a move to the NHL Monday with the firing of Los Angeles Kings coach Terry Murray. One problem with this....Murray led the Kings to the highest winning percentage of any coach in team history, back-to-back playoff appearances and because of a slow start, he gets fired? Come on now, give the guy some credit here but no time for waiting we all see.
- More hockey this morning as Sidney Crosby is out again with concussion-like symptoms. This is something that is truly scary and I think Crosby needs to take a good, hard look if he wants to continue playing or not. We've seen with a lot of the old-time NFL players what the damage can be from multiple concussions. Yes, Crosby is only 24 but this is something he should really consider.
That's all for now, more analysis tonight and trivia coming up in the midday.....
- There were thoughts that a preliminary hearing would expose us to some of the accusers of former Penn State coach Jerry Sandusky today but Sandusky decided to waive his hearing and move everything straight to trial. This is going to be a very long, painful case for the public to go through depending on how much we hear about it or don't want to hear about it. If he's guilty though, put him away for as long as possible.
- One thing that was thought to come out of the Penn State scandal was will the current recruits stay committed? Well, the Nittany Lions' top recruit has decided to go elsewhere as Tommy Schutt from the suburbs of Chicago changed his commitment to Ohio State over the weekend. Whoever takes over this program is going to have a TON of work to do to make it revelant in a good way again.
- In more positive college football news, the Mountain West Conference will ask for an automatic qualifier for the BCS for the 2012 and 2013 season. This is an obvious move to me as Boise State, which finished 7th in the BCS standings is not in one of those bowls while Michigan (13th), Clemson (15th) and West Virginia (23rd) are in. The conference champion route isn't working because if Alabama beats LSU, then the Crimson Tide will win the national title without even winning a conference title. Playoff, anyone?
- NFL-wise, the Seahawks destroyed the Rams on Monday night and are still in playoff contention with three weeks to play. Even though the 49ers have clinched the NFL West, Seattle and the Arizona Cardinals have each rallied to go to 6-7 on the year and are two games behind Detroit and Atlanta for the final playoff spot. Always good to keep hope up as long as possible and remember Seattle made the playoffs last season with a losing record and upset New Orleans in the playoffs.
- The firing train made a move to the NHL Monday with the firing of Los Angeles Kings coach Terry Murray. One problem with this....Murray led the Kings to the highest winning percentage of any coach in team history, back-to-back playoff appearances and because of a slow start, he gets fired? Come on now, give the guy some credit here but no time for waiting we all see.
- More hockey this morning as Sidney Crosby is out again with concussion-like symptoms. This is something that is truly scary and I think Crosby needs to take a good, hard look if he wants to continue playing or not. We've seen with a lot of the old-time NFL players what the damage can be from multiple concussions. Yes, Crosby is only 24 but this is something he should really consider.
That's all for now, more analysis tonight and trivia coming up in the midday.....
Monday, December 12, 2011
Monday Night Thoughts
Let's take a look at the happening of this Monday....
- It was a bad day to be a NFL coach as Miami's Tony Sparano and Kansas City's Todd Haley were shown the door. There are so many high-profile coaches sitting on the sidelines right now, both teams need to make some calls. However, Haley didn't deserve his fate since basically all of the good Chiefs players got hurt and ended up on injured reserve. He will turn up next I see as the new Bears offensive coordinator in 2012.
- This business with Chris Paul continues to drag on as a trade to the Clippers were knocked down today but reports tonight are saying that there is a new push to get a trade done with the Staples Center's other team. Get it done and over with already! In the meantime, the Clippers claimed Chauncey Billups off waivers. I guess that's the backup plan.
- Now, a classic example of pay attention to what your spouse is saying. Albert Pujols' wife Diedre went on St. Louis radio today to explain how Pujols would have stayed with the Cardinals for less money but the Cards only offered a five-year deal to begin negotiations. I don't know how much I believe of this but if it is true, that is definitely a key development. A 5-year deal in my opinion would be enough but Pujols I figure wanted one long deal to end his career and that is what he got with the Angels.
- Elsewhere in the NL Central, the Brewers have signed former Cubs 3B Aramis Ramirez. This figures to fill the void offensively with Prince Fielder likely out of town and could be headed to Chicago. I think a lot of Cubs fans would trade a Fielder-for-Ramirez deal. In Milwaukee though, Ramirez will probably need to carry the load for the first 2 months with Ryan Braun on suspension more than likely. This is not one of the best qualities of Ramirez though, will be interesting to see what happens.
- With Ramirez now in the fold, the Brewers traded Casey McGehee to the Pirates. If McGehee can get back his 2010 form, Pittsburgh may get to the .500 mark in 2012. The talent level on that team with Andrew McCutchen, Pedro Alvarez and Neil Walker is way up there and better than a lot of young groups. McGehee will probably play first base for the Pirates and spell Alvarez at third.
That's tonight's opinions, things are always breaking so more in the morning......
- It was a bad day to be a NFL coach as Miami's Tony Sparano and Kansas City's Todd Haley were shown the door. There are so many high-profile coaches sitting on the sidelines right now, both teams need to make some calls. However, Haley didn't deserve his fate since basically all of the good Chiefs players got hurt and ended up on injured reserve. He will turn up next I see as the new Bears offensive coordinator in 2012.
- This business with Chris Paul continues to drag on as a trade to the Clippers were knocked down today but reports tonight are saying that there is a new push to get a trade done with the Staples Center's other team. Get it done and over with already! In the meantime, the Clippers claimed Chauncey Billups off waivers. I guess that's the backup plan.
- Now, a classic example of pay attention to what your spouse is saying. Albert Pujols' wife Diedre went on St. Louis radio today to explain how Pujols would have stayed with the Cardinals for less money but the Cards only offered a five-year deal to begin negotiations. I don't know how much I believe of this but if it is true, that is definitely a key development. A 5-year deal in my opinion would be enough but Pujols I figure wanted one long deal to end his career and that is what he got with the Angels.
- Elsewhere in the NL Central, the Brewers have signed former Cubs 3B Aramis Ramirez. This figures to fill the void offensively with Prince Fielder likely out of town and could be headed to Chicago. I think a lot of Cubs fans would trade a Fielder-for-Ramirez deal. In Milwaukee though, Ramirez will probably need to carry the load for the first 2 months with Ryan Braun on suspension more than likely. This is not one of the best qualities of Ramirez though, will be interesting to see what happens.
- With Ramirez now in the fold, the Brewers traded Casey McGehee to the Pirates. If McGehee can get back his 2010 form, Pittsburgh may get to the .500 mark in 2012. The talent level on that team with Andrew McCutchen, Pedro Alvarez and Neil Walker is way up there and better than a lot of young groups. McGehee will probably play first base for the Pirates and spell Alvarez at third.
That's tonight's opinions, things are always breaking so more in the morning......
Trivia Answer: Monday, Dec. 12
The answer is the......Phoenix Suns. Phoenix lost their first 13 games to open the 1996-97 season before reeling off a 10-game winning streak late in the year to make the playoffs.
Sports Thoughts coming tonight....
Sports Thoughts coming tonight....
Trivia: Monday, Dec. 12
Today's question is this.....Name the first NBA team to have a 10-game winning streak and losing streak in the same season?
Answer later...
Answer later...
Monday is here again
Late last night, it was all football. Now we go into the other sports reports....
- The Chris Paul trade game continues as now he may be heading to the Clippers for a package of players. This has dragged out long enough, either make the trade or he stays in New Orleans. I thought the NBA wanted good publicity now that they actually have a season.
- One thing I didn't touch on much Saturday was the fight between Cincinnati and Xavier at the end of the game. A very ugly scene between the crosstown rivals. There is no place for fights like that as emotions were growing hotter and hotter as the game progressed. Time to grow up boys and remember you aren't playing at your neighborhood playground.
- In other NBA news, the Lakers did make a trade but it was Lamar Odom being dealt to Dallas. Odom was very upset over being included in the proposed Chris Paul trade that he wanted out of LA. So Odom gets to go to the defending champions. Not a bad place to land.
- Talk about a fan base that is excited. About 4,000 fans showed up outside Angel Stadium for the formal introductions of Albert Pujols and CJ Wilson. They are very serious about winning and capturing more of the Los Angeles market. Those two moves for now at least achieve that goal.
- Now one of the busiest men in hockey recently, Patrick Sharp. Sharp scored an overtime goal Thursday for the Blackhawks to defeat the Islanders, then found out his wife was in labor, flew home to Chicago in time to see baby Madelyn be born. Then Sunday adds another overtime goal in a win over San Jose. Try to get some sleep now, big guy or maybe Hawks fans would like you to continue your whirlwind.
- Surprised even myself with a 15-5 record on weekend predictions including 12-2 on NFL games. If the Bengals could have just held on and the Cowboys wouldn't have choked again. Tonight, a game that only fantasy players care about in Seattle as the Seahawks face the Rams. I'll take Seattle for the win 24-7.
That's all for now, today's trivia question comes up at midday and more sports thoughts are forthcoming tonight....
- The Chris Paul trade game continues as now he may be heading to the Clippers for a package of players. This has dragged out long enough, either make the trade or he stays in New Orleans. I thought the NBA wanted good publicity now that they actually have a season.
- One thing I didn't touch on much Saturday was the fight between Cincinnati and Xavier at the end of the game. A very ugly scene between the crosstown rivals. There is no place for fights like that as emotions were growing hotter and hotter as the game progressed. Time to grow up boys and remember you aren't playing at your neighborhood playground.
- In other NBA news, the Lakers did make a trade but it was Lamar Odom being dealt to Dallas. Odom was very upset over being included in the proposed Chris Paul trade that he wanted out of LA. So Odom gets to go to the defending champions. Not a bad place to land.
- Talk about a fan base that is excited. About 4,000 fans showed up outside Angel Stadium for the formal introductions of Albert Pujols and CJ Wilson. They are very serious about winning and capturing more of the Los Angeles market. Those two moves for now at least achieve that goal.
- Now one of the busiest men in hockey recently, Patrick Sharp. Sharp scored an overtime goal Thursday for the Blackhawks to defeat the Islanders, then found out his wife was in labor, flew home to Chicago in time to see baby Madelyn be born. Then Sunday adds another overtime goal in a win over San Jose. Try to get some sleep now, big guy or maybe Hawks fans would like you to continue your whirlwind.
- Surprised even myself with a 15-5 record on weekend predictions including 12-2 on NFL games. If the Bengals could have just held on and the Cowboys wouldn't have choked again. Tonight, a game that only fantasy players care about in Seattle as the Seahawks face the Rams. I'll take Seattle for the win 24-7.
That's all for now, today's trivia question comes up at midday and more sports thoughts are forthcoming tonight....
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Wild Sunday
A crazy day of football, let's take a look....
- I can't start without bringing up Tim Tebow and yet another fourth-quarter comeback. The Bears had Tebow and company right where they wanted them, up 10-0 with 2:30 to play but Tebow being who is tied leads the Broncos down the field twice to tie the game and force overtime before winning it there. Great win for Denver, a loss that will haunt Chicago.
- Time to send congrats to the Houston Texans on clinching the AFC South to make their first playoff appearance in team history. With a third-string quarterback, this team still has the potential of being the top seed in the AFC but for today, celebrate Houston. Your football team is great while your baseball team still needs work.
- The Packers continued their run toward perfection with a dominating win over the Raiders. Only one bad thing came out of the game with a left knee injury sidelining Greg Jennings. Green Bay has clinched almost everything at this point and basically has 4 weeks until a game that have to win in the playoffs. The biggest thing will be how long will Jennings be out.
- Another collapse from the Dallas Cowboys occurred Sunday night. With a 12-point lead late in the fourth quarter, the Cowboys allowed the Giants to score twice and had a tying field goal blocked in losing 37-34. The two teams are now tied at the top of the NFC East and will play again before this season is out but another bad loss in Dallas.
- It appeared for one day at least that the Eagles team we expected to see all season wanted to make an appearance. 9 sacks in a 26-10 win over the Dolphins. Too little, too late but still a good sign.
There was more that happened Sunday but we'll do that in the Monday morning blog....
- I can't start without bringing up Tim Tebow and yet another fourth-quarter comeback. The Bears had Tebow and company right where they wanted them, up 10-0 with 2:30 to play but Tebow being who is tied leads the Broncos down the field twice to tie the game and force overtime before winning it there. Great win for Denver, a loss that will haunt Chicago.
- Time to send congrats to the Houston Texans on clinching the AFC South to make their first playoff appearance in team history. With a third-string quarterback, this team still has the potential of being the top seed in the AFC but for today, celebrate Houston. Your football team is great while your baseball team still needs work.
- The Packers continued their run toward perfection with a dominating win over the Raiders. Only one bad thing came out of the game with a left knee injury sidelining Greg Jennings. Green Bay has clinched almost everything at this point and basically has 4 weeks until a game that have to win in the playoffs. The biggest thing will be how long will Jennings be out.
- Another collapse from the Dallas Cowboys occurred Sunday night. With a 12-point lead late in the fourth quarter, the Cowboys allowed the Giants to score twice and had a tying field goal blocked in losing 37-34. The two teams are now tied at the top of the NFC East and will play again before this season is out but another bad loss in Dallas.
- It appeared for one day at least that the Eagles team we expected to see all season wanted to make an appearance. 9 sacks in a 26-10 win over the Dolphins. Too little, too late but still a good sign.
There was more that happened Sunday but we'll do that in the Monday morning blog....
Trivia Answer: Sunday, Dec. 11
The answer to today's question is......Jim Hardy. Hardy threw eight interceptions on September 24, 1950 for the Chicago Cardinals in a 45-7 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Hardy actually made the Pro Bowl that season as well
Sports analysis coming later tonight...
Sports analysis coming later tonight...
Trivia Question for Sunday, Dec. 11
Trivia for you as NFL football begins....
Who holds the record for most interceptions in one game?
Answer tonight....
Who holds the record for most interceptions in one game?
Answer tonight....
Sunday NFL Predictions
Week 14 of the season is here and these are the teams I think will win....
New England d. Washington
New Orleans d. Tennessee
Philadelphia d. Miami
Atlanta d. Carolina
Jacksonville d. Tampa Bay
Cincinnati d. Houston
Detroit d. Minnesota
NY Jets d. Kansas City
Baltimore d. Indianapolis
Denver d. Chicago
Arizona d. San Francisco
San Diego d. Buffalo
Green Bay d. Oakland
Dallas d. NY Giants
There they are, thoughts on the day in sports tonight.....
New England d. Washington
New Orleans d. Tennessee
Philadelphia d. Miami
Atlanta d. Carolina
Jacksonville d. Tampa Bay
Cincinnati d. Houston
Detroit d. Minnesota
NY Jets d. Kansas City
Baltimore d. Indianapolis
Denver d. Chicago
Arizona d. San Francisco
San Diego d. Buffalo
Green Bay d. Oakland
Dallas d. NY Giants
There they are, thoughts on the day in sports tonight.....
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Saturday Night Fever
A lot of things have broke in the last hour or so, recapping...
- Congrats to Baylor QB Robert Griffin III on winning the Heisman Trophy. A lot of experts would have predicted Stanford's Andrew Luck would get the honor but Luck finished second. He won't finish second in the NFL draft but that's for another day. Griffin probably had the best season of all the finishers anyway so he deserved to win.
- ESPN is reporting Brewers OF Ryan Braun has tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs. If this is true and we will wait to see on that, it is a huge blow to the Brewers with the 50-game suspension along with the probable loss of Prince Fielder but also would be a huge black eye on MLB. The MVP being suspended is not good for business.
- A big day in college basketball was topped by Indiana upsetting No. 1 Kentucky in Bloomington. The doormats of the Big Ten in recent years, Tom Crean has done a great job of turning the program around and getting it back to the way it was for many, many years. The Hoosiers will be a major player in the conference this season the way they are going.
- Let's not forget No. 2 Ohio State losing at No. 13 Kansas so we will have a new No. 1 team next week. Probably Syracuse after their win Saturday.
- Hopefully you sat down for a few and watched the Army/Navy game today. You had everything you could want from a game like that, the President helped with the coin toss and seeing all of the soldiers in uniform in the stands was breathtaking. Only happens once a year, got to enjoy it.
NFL Week 14 Predictions coming in the morning.....
- Congrats to Baylor QB Robert Griffin III on winning the Heisman Trophy. A lot of experts would have predicted Stanford's Andrew Luck would get the honor but Luck finished second. He won't finish second in the NFL draft but that's for another day. Griffin probably had the best season of all the finishers anyway so he deserved to win.
- ESPN is reporting Brewers OF Ryan Braun has tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs. If this is true and we will wait to see on that, it is a huge blow to the Brewers with the 50-game suspension along with the probable loss of Prince Fielder but also would be a huge black eye on MLB. The MVP being suspended is not good for business.
- A big day in college basketball was topped by Indiana upsetting No. 1 Kentucky in Bloomington. The doormats of the Big Ten in recent years, Tom Crean has done a great job of turning the program around and getting it back to the way it was for many, many years. The Hoosiers will be a major player in the conference this season the way they are going.
- Let's not forget No. 2 Ohio State losing at No. 13 Kansas so we will have a new No. 1 team next week. Probably Syracuse after their win Saturday.
- Hopefully you sat down for a few and watched the Army/Navy game today. You had everything you could want from a game like that, the President helped with the coin toss and seeing all of the soldiers in uniform in the stands was breathtaking. Only happens once a year, got to enjoy it.
NFL Week 14 Predictions coming in the morning.....
Saturday Selections
Here are some picks for your day....
College Football
Army d. Navy
Men's College Basketball
(1) Kentucky d. Indiana
(13) Kansas d. (2) Ohio St.
(23) Gonzaga d. Michigan St.
(8) Xavier d. Cincinnati
UNLV d. (14) Wisconsin
There's a good way to start the day, analysis on the day coming tonight....
College Football
Army d. Navy
Men's College Basketball
(1) Kentucky d. Indiana
(13) Kansas d. (2) Ohio St.
(23) Gonzaga d. Michigan St.
(8) Xavier d. Cincinnati
UNLV d. (14) Wisconsin
There's a good way to start the day, analysis on the day coming tonight....
Friday, December 9, 2011
Friday night thoughts
Last look for the week at things before weekend games begin...
- That Chris Paul deal to the Lakers appears to be regaining some legs. The three teams involved in the trade (Lakers, Hornets and Rockets) are talking again about how to do this deal. Let's just hope it actually happens for everyone's sanity.
- Speaking of NBA, the meeting Dwight Howard and the New Jersey Nets had has been deemed illegal. The NBA should do something positive and slap the Nets with some penalty. Competitive balance is the key right? Well that means Howard can't go to New Jersey.
- The Oakland A's are cleaning house again with their trade of Trevor Cahill to Arizona Friday. This means the Diamondbacks a serious threat in the National League putting Cahill with Ian Kennedy. I guess the Marlins weren't the only team making big time moves.
- Now on a completely different scale and something of a positive nature for Penn State....well maybe not on this night but the four-time defending women's volleyball champions were defeated by UCLA. Reason I bring this up is just the fact they won 4 YEARS IN A ROW! Not the easiest thing to do when players graduate.
- Last thing, if you have time on Saturday....sit down and watch at least some of the Army-Navy game. One of the best games every year with the service academies. Just take 30 minutes out and take a look.
Saturday selections coming in the morning.....
- That Chris Paul deal to the Lakers appears to be regaining some legs. The three teams involved in the trade (Lakers, Hornets and Rockets) are talking again about how to do this deal. Let's just hope it actually happens for everyone's sanity.
- Speaking of NBA, the meeting Dwight Howard and the New Jersey Nets had has been deemed illegal. The NBA should do something positive and slap the Nets with some penalty. Competitive balance is the key right? Well that means Howard can't go to New Jersey.
- The Oakland A's are cleaning house again with their trade of Trevor Cahill to Arizona Friday. This means the Diamondbacks a serious threat in the National League putting Cahill with Ian Kennedy. I guess the Marlins weren't the only team making big time moves.
- Now on a completely different scale and something of a positive nature for Penn State....well maybe not on this night but the four-time defending women's volleyball champions were defeated by UCLA. Reason I bring this up is just the fact they won 4 YEARS IN A ROW! Not the easiest thing to do when players graduate.
- Last thing, if you have time on Saturday....sit down and watch at least some of the Army-Navy game. One of the best games every year with the service academies. Just take 30 minutes out and take a look.
Saturday selections coming in the morning.....
Friday morning report
We begin the weekend with these thoughts....
- On the heels of the Chris Paul trade being nixed by the league, Dwight Howard is now angling to get traded to the Nets and this trade appears to be actually going down. We are heading down a road of superteams where only 6-8 teams have a chance at a title and no one else can survive. Not good for balance but good for ratings.
- Also in the NBA, it appears Brandon Roy is going to have to retire because of his knees. That's a real shame for a player that had a very bright future ahead of him and could have had a Hall of Fame career. Good luck to him.
- We move on to college football where Kansas has hired former Notre Dame coach Charlie Weis. Weis has a few good years in South Bend but was an epic failure in terms of Irish coaches. The move is sound but we will see if it is actually successful.
- A very smart move by IndyCar, deciding to bypass going to Las Vegas after the death of Dan Wheldon last year. Those cars move way too fast for that kind of track and it was a bad idea in the first place. There are reports they won't return there again and that would be for the best.
- NFL Week 14 started last night with a clunker of a win by the Steelers over the Browns. That's Pittsburgh's game though with their defense and getting that 10th win continued their chase toward the AFC North title and the top seed in the conference.
Enjoy your Friday, more tonight....
- On the heels of the Chris Paul trade being nixed by the league, Dwight Howard is now angling to get traded to the Nets and this trade appears to be actually going down. We are heading down a road of superteams where only 6-8 teams have a chance at a title and no one else can survive. Not good for balance but good for ratings.
- Also in the NBA, it appears Brandon Roy is going to have to retire because of his knees. That's a real shame for a player that had a very bright future ahead of him and could have had a Hall of Fame career. Good luck to him.
- We move on to college football where Kansas has hired former Notre Dame coach Charlie Weis. Weis has a few good years in South Bend but was an epic failure in terms of Irish coaches. The move is sound but we will see if it is actually successful.
- A very smart move by IndyCar, deciding to bypass going to Las Vegas after the death of Dan Wheldon last year. Those cars move way too fast for that kind of track and it was a bad idea in the first place. There are reports they won't return there again and that would be for the best.
- NFL Week 14 started last night with a clunker of a win by the Steelers over the Browns. That's Pittsburgh's game though with their defense and getting that 10th win continued their chase toward the AFC North title and the top seed in the conference.
Enjoy your Friday, more tonight....
Thursday, December 8, 2011
It's Late Night in Blogland
Sitting at the desk late tonight, let's go...
- Just after I posted the morning report, reports begin flying that Albert Pujols and CJ Wilson have signed with the Angels. A war has developed now between the Angels and Rangers for the AL West crown, this should be interesting. Pujols gets over $250 million while Wilson gets $77 million, would be nice to make that kind of money.
- Also on Thursday, the Cubs traded Tyler Colvin to Colorado for Ian Stewart. North Siders needed a 3rd baseman with Aramis Ramirez now gone. This is a big risk for a Cub team that wants defense and there is no doubt Stewart won't match Ramirez's production offensively.
- Very interesting news in the NBA as the New Orleans Hornets were going to trade star point guard Chris Paul to the Lakers but one problem, the NBA owns the Hornets right now and killed the trade. David Stern wants competitive balance but I'm not sure if he should be sticking his nose in this.
That's it for tonight, more in the morning
- Just after I posted the morning report, reports begin flying that Albert Pujols and CJ Wilson have signed with the Angels. A war has developed now between the Angels and Rangers for the AL West crown, this should be interesting. Pujols gets over $250 million while Wilson gets $77 million, would be nice to make that kind of money.
- Also on Thursday, the Cubs traded Tyler Colvin to Colorado for Ian Stewart. North Siders needed a 3rd baseman with Aramis Ramirez now gone. This is a big risk for a Cub team that wants defense and there is no doubt Stewart won't match Ramirez's production offensively.
- Very interesting news in the NBA as the New Orleans Hornets were going to trade star point guard Chris Paul to the Lakers but one problem, the NBA owns the Hornets right now and killed the trade. David Stern wants competitive balance but I'm not sure if he should be sticking his nose in this.
That's it for tonight, more in the morning
Thursday Thoughts
I talked all about baseball in last night's post, a little more baseball now among other things....
- It appears Albert Pujols will take more time to think about where he will play in 2012. Numerous reports came out last night saying that no decision will be made before the end of the Winter Meetings. I have zero clue where he's landing now. Could it be St. Louis again? Los Angeles with the Angels? However, I'm going to venture this guess. The Mets looked to look Ike Davis yesterday, there's your mystery team. Let that simmer. (UPDATE: About 10 minutes after posting this, Yahoo reported Pujols has agreed to 10 year/$260 million deal with the Angels)
- In international news, Yu Darvish will be posted by his Japanese club to go to the States to play. Darvish has been a dominating pitcher in Japan, going 18-6 with a 1.44 ERA this past season. One major issue is this, Darvish was getting 6 days off between starts as opposed to the 4 he would get in MLB. This has all the potential of a Yankees or Red Sox signing with the amount of money needed in posting fees to get Darvish plus the contract. Probably going to take over $100 million. Just don't see anyone else going after him for that kind of money.
- There seems to be a growing tidal wave wanting a college football playoff with Stanford AD Bob Bowlsby saying that a 4-team playoff is "inevitable".Would that idea be so bad? Really?
- The opening of NBA training camps and free agency begin tomorrow. It seems more and more likely that not a lot of trades are going to happen and there aren't any big-name free agents. A tweak here and there for some teams but you have to think the two teams to beat are still Miami and Dallas.
- Last but not least today, I go to high school football. A team in Massachusetts lost the state title game this past weekend because their quarterback while running in for the winning touchdown raises his arm for five yards. That brought out a penalty for taunting. Give me a break! These kids are in high school, they get excited. Why don't we just put all the players on pills to make them even the whole game, no excitement about anything and see how fun the game looks then. Shame shame on the high school association.
That's it for now, maybe more tonight if things develop....
- It appears Albert Pujols will take more time to think about where he will play in 2012. Numerous reports came out last night saying that no decision will be made before the end of the Winter Meetings. I have zero clue where he's landing now. Could it be St. Louis again? Los Angeles with the Angels? However, I'm going to venture this guess. The Mets looked to look Ike Davis yesterday, there's your mystery team. Let that simmer. (UPDATE: About 10 minutes after posting this, Yahoo reported Pujols has agreed to 10 year/$260 million deal with the Angels)
- In international news, Yu Darvish will be posted by his Japanese club to go to the States to play. Darvish has been a dominating pitcher in Japan, going 18-6 with a 1.44 ERA this past season. One major issue is this, Darvish was getting 6 days off between starts as opposed to the 4 he would get in MLB. This has all the potential of a Yankees or Red Sox signing with the amount of money needed in posting fees to get Darvish plus the contract. Probably going to take over $100 million. Just don't see anyone else going after him for that kind of money.
- There seems to be a growing tidal wave wanting a college football playoff with Stanford AD Bob Bowlsby saying that a 4-team playoff is "inevitable".Would that idea be so bad? Really?
- The opening of NBA training camps and free agency begin tomorrow. It seems more and more likely that not a lot of trades are going to happen and there aren't any big-name free agents. A tweak here and there for some teams but you have to think the two teams to beat are still Miami and Dallas.
- Last but not least today, I go to high school football. A team in Massachusetts lost the state title game this past weekend because their quarterback while running in for the winning touchdown raises his arm for five yards. That brought out a penalty for taunting. Give me a break! These kids are in high school, they get excited. Why don't we just put all the players on pills to make them even the whole game, no excitement about anything and see how fun the game looks then. Shame shame on the high school association.
That's it for now, maybe more tonight if things develop....
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Baseball, Baseball, Baseball
The rumors and signings are coming fast and furious now...
- I guess there is a money tree in Miami for the Marlins now that they have signed Mark Buehrle to a four-year deal. Reunited Buehrle with former White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen. 3 big signings, are more coming?
- Now we wait on Albert Pujols....it appears more and more likely he is going back to St. Louis but the Marlins keep peeking back in to try to get him. Rumors have connected Pujols to the Cubs at some point but that's not happening. I won't predict where Pujols goes but it won't be Clark and Addison.
- Let's now talk about a player I do see on the Cubs next season and that's Prince Fielder. He's telling friends he wants to go to Chicago (Twitter can be a treat though). This would be a great signing just getting a left-handed hitter with power but lots of work needs to be done on the North Side even if this happens.
- Next, we go to CJ Wilson. Marlins still poking around, Nationals poking around, Angels seem to be the front runner but then the Rangers spring back up. I'm thinking Wilson is headed to the Angels. He likes the West I read so sounds logical.
- Huston Street was traded today from the Rockies to the Padres. San Diego needed a new closer after Heath Bell went to South Beach. Rockies wanted Street out of there and get away with not paying much of the 2012 salary either. Don't think the trades are over for Colorado yet though.
- Another player out there is Jimmy Rollins, who I don't think will be heading back to Philadelphia. All has mostly been quiet on his front at the Winter Meetings with all of the attention on the others I already mentioned but look for J-Roll to end up in Milwaukee.
That's it for now, we'll recap in the morning....
- I guess there is a money tree in Miami for the Marlins now that they have signed Mark Buehrle to a four-year deal. Reunited Buehrle with former White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen. 3 big signings, are more coming?
- Now we wait on Albert Pujols....it appears more and more likely he is going back to St. Louis but the Marlins keep peeking back in to try to get him. Rumors have connected Pujols to the Cubs at some point but that's not happening. I won't predict where Pujols goes but it won't be Clark and Addison.
- Let's now talk about a player I do see on the Cubs next season and that's Prince Fielder. He's telling friends he wants to go to Chicago (Twitter can be a treat though). This would be a great signing just getting a left-handed hitter with power but lots of work needs to be done on the North Side even if this happens.
- Next, we go to CJ Wilson. Marlins still poking around, Nationals poking around, Angels seem to be the front runner but then the Rangers spring back up. I'm thinking Wilson is headed to the Angels. He likes the West I read so sounds logical.
- Huston Street was traded today from the Rockies to the Padres. San Diego needed a new closer after Heath Bell went to South Beach. Rockies wanted Street out of there and get away with not paying much of the 2012 salary either. Don't think the trades are over for Colorado yet though.
- Another player out there is Jimmy Rollins, who I don't think will be heading back to Philadelphia. All has mostly been quiet on his front at the Winter Meetings with all of the attention on the others I already mentioned but look for J-Roll to end up in Milwaukee.
That's it for now, we'll recap in the morning....
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Tuesday night thoughts
It's getting late but here's a quick group of thoughts...
- We may have a decision from Albert Pujols by the time my next blog post. 3 teams are in at over $200 million. Likely Marlins, Cardinals and Angels. Cubs may be involved too but it's looking likely Pujols is heading for South Beach. See if LeBron can host a Decision special for him.
- The Big East is adding members that are nowhere near east in Boise State and San Diego State. Last time I checked San Diego is on the Pacific Ocean not the Atlantic which puts them as far west as you can be...interesting.
- Week 14 of the NFL Season starts Thursday...get your fantasy roster ready as the playoffs begin. Hopefully you made it. Took a bunch of work but thankfully I did.
That's all for now, more in the morning hopefully....
- We may have a decision from Albert Pujols by the time my next blog post. 3 teams are in at over $200 million. Likely Marlins, Cardinals and Angels. Cubs may be involved too but it's looking likely Pujols is heading for South Beach. See if LeBron can host a Decision special for him.
- The Big East is adding members that are nowhere near east in Boise State and San Diego State. Last time I checked San Diego is on the Pacific Ocean not the Atlantic which puts them as far west as you can be...interesting.
- Week 14 of the NFL Season starts Thursday...get your fantasy roster ready as the playoffs begin. Hopefully you made it. Took a bunch of work but thankfully I did.
That's all for now, more in the morning hopefully....
Tuesday morning thought pattern
First day of the week is through, let's look at what's going on....
- I have to open this with the happy announcement of Ron Santo making the Hall of Fame. It took long enough and it's quite sad that he isn't alive to see it. A great day yesterday was for Santo's family and Cubs fans everywhere
- The NHL must want attention as it was approved a new four-conference realignment. I'm quite pleased by the fact that leagues are grouping teams by geography area and that the schedule will be more balanced but must said, some radical move to group 7 or 8 teams into a conference like the old MLB setup.
- Finally a coach is speaking up on the injustice of the BCS. Give Boise State coach Chris Petersen a lot of credit for coming out and blasting this current system. No one likes it, it must be changed. How hard would it be to have a 8-team playoff? Not at all.
- I would love to find out where the Miami Marlins found a money machine at. After signing Jose Reyes and Heath Bell, the Marlins offered a 10-year contract to Albert Pujols on Monday. They seem to be in on every free agent, where is it coming from?
- The Chargers finally found their way last night with a win over the Jaguars. Finally, a good game from Philip Rivers. Those have been few and far between this year but makes the AFC West all competitive still with four weeks to go.
- It was reported late last night that the Lakers are exploring trading for both Dwight Howard and Chris Paul. The way the NBA is headed, we may as well just have 8 super teams and forget everyone else. This is no way competitive balance can succeed with superstars on just a few teams.
There's your morning report, more late tonight....
- I have to open this with the happy announcement of Ron Santo making the Hall of Fame. It took long enough and it's quite sad that he isn't alive to see it. A great day yesterday was for Santo's family and Cubs fans everywhere
- The NHL must want attention as it was approved a new four-conference realignment. I'm quite pleased by the fact that leagues are grouping teams by geography area and that the schedule will be more balanced but must said, some radical move to group 7 or 8 teams into a conference like the old MLB setup.
- Finally a coach is speaking up on the injustice of the BCS. Give Boise State coach Chris Petersen a lot of credit for coming out and blasting this current system. No one likes it, it must be changed. How hard would it be to have a 8-team playoff? Not at all.
- I would love to find out where the Miami Marlins found a money machine at. After signing Jose Reyes and Heath Bell, the Marlins offered a 10-year contract to Albert Pujols on Monday. They seem to be in on every free agent, where is it coming from?
- The Chargers finally found their way last night with a win over the Jaguars. Finally, a good game from Philip Rivers. Those have been few and far between this year but makes the AFC West all competitive still with four weeks to go.
- It was reported late last night that the Lakers are exploring trading for both Dwight Howard and Chris Paul. The way the NBA is headed, we may as well just have 8 super teams and forget everyone else. This is no way competitive balance can succeed with superstars on just a few teams.
There's your morning report, more late tonight....
Monday, December 5, 2011
Monday Morning Thoughts
The weekend is over....let's look at what has happened.
- Quite a scare the Giants put into the Packers Sunday afternoon. Tie game late in the fourth quarter before Aaron Rodgers dug his team out to send Green Bay to 12-0. The Pack have 3 home games left in their last four remaining games. The road to 16-0 seems paved now.
- If this season couldn't get any worse for the Bears, it appeared to after Matt Forte went down in a terrible 10-3 loss to the Chiefs. Chicago has zero chance w/o Forte and Cutler in the lineup. Now a trip to Denver and Tebow is coming. The season is slipping away in the Windy City.
- Speaking of seasons slipping away, how about the Lions? A 5-0 start has slid all the way to 7-5. While Detroit put up a nice effort Sunday night in New Orleans, this team is going to need a major miracle now to make the playoffs especially with their final game on New Year's Day in Green Bay with the Packers likely looking to finish 16-0.
- As I bring up New Orleans, the college football rematch everyone really didn't want to see will happen when LSU takes on Alabama in the BCS Championshp Game. If anyone outside of the southeast going to care about this game unless you are an alum of either school? The SEC will win the national title for the sixth straight year and more power to them for it but it's time to move the trophy out of the south for at least a year.
- The rest of the college bowl schedule was released Sunday as well and one matchup I'm really looking forward to is the Fiesta Bowl between Stanford and Oklahoma St. Those two high-powered offenses should make for a great game in Glendale on Jan. 2. Couple other games I'm looking forward to would be Houston/Penn St. in the TicketCity Bowl and Wisconsin/Oregon in the Rose Bowl.
- To finish the college thought train, it's a real shame Michigan St. gets stuck with the Outback Bowl against Georgia while their in-state counterparts get a BCS game against Virginia Tech. The Spartans were in the Big Ten Title Game, played Wisconsin tough while Michigan sat all day Saturday but what can you do?
- Baseball's Winter Meetings got off to a roaring start with the Marlins signing Jose Reyes. Great move to get fans into the new ballpark and now where will Hanley Ramirez play? You would have to figure he is moving to 3B but reports say he is not open to moving positions so stay tuned.
- Prediction-wise this weekend I went 8-6 with the NFL picks (Chargers d. Jaguars tonight for the last game) and Saturday's picks went 7-3 so an overall 15-9 weekend.....not terrible I guess.
That's all for now, look for more tonight....
- Quite a scare the Giants put into the Packers Sunday afternoon. Tie game late in the fourth quarter before Aaron Rodgers dug his team out to send Green Bay to 12-0. The Pack have 3 home games left in their last four remaining games. The road to 16-0 seems paved now.
- If this season couldn't get any worse for the Bears, it appeared to after Matt Forte went down in a terrible 10-3 loss to the Chiefs. Chicago has zero chance w/o Forte and Cutler in the lineup. Now a trip to Denver and Tebow is coming. The season is slipping away in the Windy City.
- Speaking of seasons slipping away, how about the Lions? A 5-0 start has slid all the way to 7-5. While Detroit put up a nice effort Sunday night in New Orleans, this team is going to need a major miracle now to make the playoffs especially with their final game on New Year's Day in Green Bay with the Packers likely looking to finish 16-0.
- As I bring up New Orleans, the college football rematch everyone really didn't want to see will happen when LSU takes on Alabama in the BCS Championshp Game. If anyone outside of the southeast going to care about this game unless you are an alum of either school? The SEC will win the national title for the sixth straight year and more power to them for it but it's time to move the trophy out of the south for at least a year.
- The rest of the college bowl schedule was released Sunday as well and one matchup I'm really looking forward to is the Fiesta Bowl between Stanford and Oklahoma St. Those two high-powered offenses should make for a great game in Glendale on Jan. 2. Couple other games I'm looking forward to would be Houston/Penn St. in the TicketCity Bowl and Wisconsin/Oregon in the Rose Bowl.
- To finish the college thought train, it's a real shame Michigan St. gets stuck with the Outback Bowl against Georgia while their in-state counterparts get a BCS game against Virginia Tech. The Spartans were in the Big Ten Title Game, played Wisconsin tough while Michigan sat all day Saturday but what can you do?
- Baseball's Winter Meetings got off to a roaring start with the Marlins signing Jose Reyes. Great move to get fans into the new ballpark and now where will Hanley Ramirez play? You would have to figure he is moving to 3B but reports say he is not open to moving positions so stay tuned.
- Prediction-wise this weekend I went 8-6 with the NFL picks (Chargers d. Jaguars tonight for the last game) and Saturday's picks went 7-3 so an overall 15-9 weekend.....not terrible I guess.
That's all for now, look for more tonight....
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Predictions that aren't always accurate
NFL Sunday is here and these are my predictions for today.....
Tampa Bay d. Carolina
Pittsburgh d. Cincinnati
Atlanta d. Houston
NY Jets d. Washington
New England d. Indianapolis
Oakland d. Miami
Denver d. Minnesota
Buffalo d. Tennessee
Chicago d. Kansas City
Baltimore d. Cleveland
Dallas d. Arizona
Green Bay d. NY Giants
San Francisco d. St. Louis
New Orleans d. Detroit
Tampa Bay d. Carolina
Pittsburgh d. Cincinnati
Atlanta d. Houston
NY Jets d. Washington
New England d. Indianapolis
Oakland d. Miami
Denver d. Minnesota
Buffalo d. Tennessee
Chicago d. Kansas City
Baltimore d. Cleveland
Dallas d. Arizona
Green Bay d. NY Giants
San Francisco d. St. Louis
New Orleans d. Detroit
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Saturday Evening Thoughts....
Thoughts on this Saturday night....
- So Houston didn't want that BCS bowl game after all I see. How can you lose at home in the biggest game of your school's history and the money you could have had if you win. Choke job supreme.
- The Houston loss gives TCU the opening they need to go back to a BCS game. Only team to beat Boise State this year and probably off to the Fiesta Bowl now. Well done Horned Frogs.
- It now looks 100% for that LSU-Alabama rematch for the national title after the Tigers win in the SEC Championship Game. LSU started slow but rolled Georgia in the second half. These are the top two teams by leaps and bounds, set the game up.
- Normally, early season college basketball isn't anything special but put Kentucky and North Carolina together and you got something. An amazing game that came down to the last second with these two long-time programs. I think we may be seeing them again together at the Final Four.
- Week 13 of the NFL season continues Sunday and after that awful performance from the Eagles Thursday, we should see some compelling things I figure. Saints may put up 50 on the Lions, same with the Patriots against the Colts.
- Baseball's winter meetings start Monday. Watch the fireworks with this, big trades will happen, big signings will occur but who to where? Only time will tell.
Enjoy the rest of your sports weekend.
- So Houston didn't want that BCS bowl game after all I see. How can you lose at home in the biggest game of your school's history and the money you could have had if you win. Choke job supreme.
- The Houston loss gives TCU the opening they need to go back to a BCS game. Only team to beat Boise State this year and probably off to the Fiesta Bowl now. Well done Horned Frogs.
- It now looks 100% for that LSU-Alabama rematch for the national title after the Tigers win in the SEC Championship Game. LSU started slow but rolled Georgia in the second half. These are the top two teams by leaps and bounds, set the game up.
- Normally, early season college basketball isn't anything special but put Kentucky and North Carolina together and you got something. An amazing game that came down to the last second with these two long-time programs. I think we may be seeing them again together at the Final Four.
- Week 13 of the NFL season continues Sunday and after that awful performance from the Eagles Thursday, we should see some compelling things I figure. Saints may put up 50 on the Lions, same with the Patriots against the Colts.
- Baseball's winter meetings start Monday. Watch the fireworks with this, big trades will happen, big signings will occur but who to where? Only time will tell.
Enjoy the rest of your sports weekend.
Saturday Selections
We'll begin today with a list of predictions and later on in the day, I'll break down the day more in full with some additional thoughts on the world of sports...
College Football
LSU d. Georgia
Houston d. Southern Mississippi
Wisconsin d. Michigan St.
Oklahoma St. d. Oklahoma
Clemson d. Virginia Tech
Men's College Basketball
Kentucky d. N. Carolina
(16) Marquette d. (9) Wisconsin
Illinois d. (19) Gonzaga
Purdue d. Xavier
Tennessee d. (17) Pittsburgh
College Football
LSU d. Georgia
Houston d. Southern Mississippi
Wisconsin d. Michigan St.
Oklahoma St. d. Oklahoma
Clemson d. Virginia Tech
Men's College Basketball
Kentucky d. N. Carolina
(16) Marquette d. (9) Wisconsin
Illinois d. (19) Gonzaga
Purdue d. Xavier
Tennessee d. (17) Pittsburgh
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Spinning Wheel
Welcome back into the Manager's office, here is the latest...
- The revolving door of coaching in the NHL continues to spin as the Ducks fired Randy Carlyle to hire just fired coach Bruce Boudreau. Are all the teams just going to fire their coaches next and shuffle them around the league?
- Speaking of coaches, Mike Leach is back and this time he's at Washington State. I'm sure Leach will bring his high-powered pass-first offense to the Great Northwest but there is one slight issue especially in that region....what happens when it rains like it does a lot there? Think about it.
- How about the Big Ten in the Big Ten/ACC Challenge, winning 8 of the 12 games? This is a shift that has been happening for some time now, Big Ten basketball is getting better and while the ACC is always going to be good with Duke and North Carolina....the Big Ten has made strides.
- Football on the slate tonight as the Eagles go to Seattle to face the Seahawks? Philly has been a MAJOR disappointment this season but the Hawks have lost Sidney Rice for the season now with a concussion. I see the Eagles getting through this one, 24-10.
Short and sweet to start the day, more later.....
- The revolving door of coaching in the NHL continues to spin as the Ducks fired Randy Carlyle to hire just fired coach Bruce Boudreau. Are all the teams just going to fire their coaches next and shuffle them around the league?
- Speaking of coaches, Mike Leach is back and this time he's at Washington State. I'm sure Leach will bring his high-powered pass-first offense to the Great Northwest but there is one slight issue especially in that region....what happens when it rains like it does a lot there? Think about it.
- How about the Big Ten in the Big Ten/ACC Challenge, winning 8 of the 12 games? This is a shift that has been happening for some time now, Big Ten basketball is getting better and while the ACC is always going to be good with Duke and North Carolina....the Big Ten has made strides.
- Football on the slate tonight as the Eagles go to Seattle to face the Seahawks? Philly has been a MAJOR disappointment this season but the Hawks have lost Sidney Rice for the season now with a concussion. I see the Eagles getting through this one, 24-10.
Short and sweet to start the day, more later.....
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Reflections....
As the wind blows past the windows, a look at what is up in sports....
- Drew Brees once again lit up another opposing defense Monday night in the Saints' 49-24 win over the Giants. Brees threw for five touchdowns and amassed enough fantasy points where I lost my matchup. Brees and company get the Lions Sunday night, Brees may throw for another five scores there.
- The Jaguars fired Jack Del Rio this morning, ending his 9-year run in Jacksonville. The Jags are 3-8 this season with rookie QB Blaine Gabbert at the helm. It will take time for Gabbert to mature as a quarterback it may seem since the only light is Maurice Jones-Drew right now.
- The firing line continues in the NHL as Hurricanes coach Paul Maurice got the boot for the second time from the team. Kirk Muller assumes control in Carolina. A good, solid NHL player and now we shall see how he is as a coach.
- Can you play quarterback? Give a call to the Houston Texans today. The Texans lost Matt Leinart Sunday and had to go to 3rd-string QB T.J. Yates in their win this week. It appears Kellen Clemens, who was signed when Matt Schaub was lost for the season, will have to start this week against the Falcons. Houston is 8-3 and well on the way to a division title for the first time in team history and are going to have to ride Arian Foster if they want to go anywhere in the playoffs.
- Fox Sports is reporting today that the Cubs are going after Albert Pujols and Prince Fielder. Obviously, they are not signing both.....or are they? The report states the Cubs like Pujols more because of his defense. Why not put Pujols at 3B, where he started his career, and have Fielder at first? Pipe dream for Cubs fans but why not dream when you haven't won a World Series in a LONG time.
- Drew Brees once again lit up another opposing defense Monday night in the Saints' 49-24 win over the Giants. Brees threw for five touchdowns and amassed enough fantasy points where I lost my matchup. Brees and company get the Lions Sunday night, Brees may throw for another five scores there.
- The Jaguars fired Jack Del Rio this morning, ending his 9-year run in Jacksonville. The Jags are 3-8 this season with rookie QB Blaine Gabbert at the helm. It will take time for Gabbert to mature as a quarterback it may seem since the only light is Maurice Jones-Drew right now.
- The firing line continues in the NHL as Hurricanes coach Paul Maurice got the boot for the second time from the team. Kirk Muller assumes control in Carolina. A good, solid NHL player and now we shall see how he is as a coach.
- Can you play quarterback? Give a call to the Houston Texans today. The Texans lost Matt Leinart Sunday and had to go to 3rd-string QB T.J. Yates in their win this week. It appears Kellen Clemens, who was signed when Matt Schaub was lost for the season, will have to start this week against the Falcons. Houston is 8-3 and well on the way to a division title for the first time in team history and are going to have to ride Arian Foster if they want to go anywhere in the playoffs.
- Fox Sports is reporting today that the Cubs are going after Albert Pujols and Prince Fielder. Obviously, they are not signing both.....or are they? The report states the Cubs like Pujols more because of his defense. Why not put Pujols at 3B, where he started his career, and have Fielder at first? Pipe dream for Cubs fans but why not dream when you haven't won a World Series in a LONG time.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Welcome in to the Manager's Hut
So today, a new feature will debut but more later....now a look at what is happening.
- So the BCS title game will be LSU-Alabama unless something beyond unreal happens. While I don't like rematches from the regular season, it's very obvious these are the two best teams. Let them go at it.
- So the Packers improved to 11-0 Thursday with their win over the Lions...no one beats this team in the regular season, could a 19-0 season be upcoming? Wouldn't be a long trip to the Super Bowl either for their fans.
- NBA finally has got their act together and came to an agreement. The fans were getting restless and they couldn't risk losing anymore games after Christmas. Going to be a very busy sports day for Chicago fans now with the Bulls followed by the Bears. Sounds like a perfect day for the Windy City.
- Some hockey news as the Washington Capitals fired Coach Bruce Boudreau...I discussed this a while back after his benching of Alex Ovechkin. Sounds like Ovechkin won that one.
- Sources say this morning Urban Meyer will take over at Ohio State. The Buckeye fans can't be happy with this past season so this move will please Columbus. Now if he can get the Big 10 (isn't it 12) back to national championship contention.
- It appears Tebow Tim (e) is here to stay in Denver after another Broncos win, this time in San Diego. Can this team actually make the playoffs? It's starting to look more and more like a real possibility.
- Monday Night Football tonight with the Giants in New Orleans to face the Saints. This won't be a low-scoring game to say the least as both teams have offenses that can go up and down the field. Thinking New Orleans gets this win 38-31.
Coming soon will be my daily commentary, working out some bugs with that but that is next. Until then, enjoy the day.
- So the BCS title game will be LSU-Alabama unless something beyond unreal happens. While I don't like rematches from the regular season, it's very obvious these are the two best teams. Let them go at it.
- So the Packers improved to 11-0 Thursday with their win over the Lions...no one beats this team in the regular season, could a 19-0 season be upcoming? Wouldn't be a long trip to the Super Bowl either for their fans.
- NBA finally has got their act together and came to an agreement. The fans were getting restless and they couldn't risk losing anymore games after Christmas. Going to be a very busy sports day for Chicago fans now with the Bulls followed by the Bears. Sounds like a perfect day for the Windy City.
- Some hockey news as the Washington Capitals fired Coach Bruce Boudreau...I discussed this a while back after his benching of Alex Ovechkin. Sounds like Ovechkin won that one.
- Sources say this morning Urban Meyer will take over at Ohio State. The Buckeye fans can't be happy with this past season so this move will please Columbus. Now if he can get the Big 10 (isn't it 12) back to national championship contention.
- It appears Tebow Tim (e) is here to stay in Denver after another Broncos win, this time in San Diego. Can this team actually make the playoffs? It's starting to look more and more like a real possibility.
- Monday Night Football tonight with the Giants in New Orleans to face the Saints. This won't be a low-scoring game to say the least as both teams have offenses that can go up and down the field. Thinking New Orleans gets this win 38-31.
Coming soon will be my daily commentary, working out some bugs with that but that is next. Until then, enjoy the day.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Deep Thoughts with....
As we prepare for Thanksgiving during this my last post until Monday, I give you some things to think about...
- Lions will beat the Packers Thursday. It has happened before to a 10-0 Packer team in Detroit for the holiday. History repeats itself.
- LSU wins in OT over Arkansas. The Tigers finish the regular season strong on their march to New Orleans...not a long march but a march.
- Auburn beats Alabama. Begin the BCS mess, who will play LSU in this scenario? Who knows...
- I encourage you to use the ESPN Playoff Machine, pick every game the rest of the season to figure out what the playoff matchups will be. Fun times.
- We got a new labor agreement in MLB. Hope you took notes, NBA.
Now I go to eat and watch football.....great thoughts coming Monday.
- Lions will beat the Packers Thursday. It has happened before to a 10-0 Packer team in Detroit for the holiday. History repeats itself.
- LSU wins in OT over Arkansas. The Tigers finish the regular season strong on their march to New Orleans...not a long march but a march.
- Auburn beats Alabama. Begin the BCS mess, who will play LSU in this scenario? Who knows...
- I encourage you to use the ESPN Playoff Machine, pick every game the rest of the season to figure out what the playoff matchups will be. Fun times.
- We got a new labor agreement in MLB. Hope you took notes, NBA.
Now I go to eat and watch football.....great thoughts coming Monday.
Sports in my mind
- Is Arizona starting a new trend by posting who they hire on Twitter? The Wildcats announced the hiring of Rich Rodriguez on their Twitter account. I know the internet is big but come on now...
- Interesting move by the Rangers to sign Joe Nathan. This will move Neftali Feliz to the starting rotation. Feliz I don't believe will ever recover from his one strike away from the title blowup in the World Series. It is best to move him now, maybe he can get his head back on straight.
- So Justin Verlander is named the AL MVP along with the Cy Young, first time in a long time for that honor. Did he deserve it? Yes and no. There is an award for pitchers in the Cy Young, the MVP should be for position players. Was it a great year for him, no doubt so congrats on the award big guy. You made Detroit proud.
- Also, make sure those fantasy lineups are set before you sit down to eat Thursday....last weeks of the regular season for most and needing a win is always key.
- Interesting move by the Rangers to sign Joe Nathan. This will move Neftali Feliz to the starting rotation. Feliz I don't believe will ever recover from his one strike away from the title blowup in the World Series. It is best to move him now, maybe he can get his head back on straight.
- So Justin Verlander is named the AL MVP along with the Cy Young, first time in a long time for that honor. Did he deserve it? Yes and no. There is an award for pitchers in the Cy Young, the MVP should be for position players. Was it a great year for him, no doubt so congrats on the award big guy. You made Detroit proud.
- Also, make sure those fantasy lineups are set before you sit down to eat Thursday....last weeks of the regular season for most and needing a win is always key.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Injure, Injure
Sounds like another week of NFL injuries...if you were unlucky enough to have Fred Jackson, Adrian Peterson and Matt Hasselbeck all in your fantasy lineup, it was not your day. Peterson appears to be the most serious and as of this writing, the MRI was negative on his ankle. Jackson left with a leg injury while Hasselbeck departing with an elbow injury.
Jay Cutler broke his thumb on his throwing hand and reports say he will miss 6-8 weeks. This dooms the Bears and their chances to do much the rest of the season. While Chicago is 7-3 now, 9-7 seems very likely now with Caleb Hanie at the controls.
New BCS Standings are out and the SEC has the top 3 teams with LSU, Alabama and Arkansas in that order. You got LSU-Arkansas Friday afternoon to decide a WHOLE lot with this along with the Iron Bowl Saturday.
It's Thanksgiving week which means live sports on each day this week, starting Monday with the Maui Invitational. Enjoy this week, the more sports the better....don't forget family though.
Jay Cutler broke his thumb on his throwing hand and reports say he will miss 6-8 weeks. This dooms the Bears and their chances to do much the rest of the season. While Chicago is 7-3 now, 9-7 seems very likely now with Caleb Hanie at the controls.
New BCS Standings are out and the SEC has the top 3 teams with LSU, Alabama and Arkansas in that order. You got LSU-Arkansas Friday afternoon to decide a WHOLE lot with this along with the Iron Bowl Saturday.
It's Thanksgiving week which means live sports on each day this week, starting Monday with the Maui Invitational. Enjoy this week, the more sports the better....don't forget family though.
Upset Weekend
It was a wild weekend to say the least in college football as the No. 2, 4 and 5-ranked teams in the BCS Standings all lost. Now the whole BCS is thrown for a loop and it is looking more and more likely than we are going to see a LSU-Alabama rematch. The first game was epic for defense but do we really need another matchup of that?
The real fun comes in if Arkansas beats LSU Friday afternoon. Then more chaos because the only undefeated team could potentially be Houston and we all know there is no way the BCS will put Houston in the title game......right? Don't the Cougars deserve a shot at this if there are the only undefeated team left? Otherwise, you are left with a champion with at least one loss on the year.
Go get me a 8-team playoff. The bowl season lasts long enough and has too many mediocre 6-6 teams in there. Let's play this out to next season with some dates....play the quarterfinals on Sat., Dec. 22 with the semifinals on New Year's Day and the title game on Monday, Jan. 7. Why can't this work? Saturday's top 5 losses show the need there is for one.
The real fun comes in if Arkansas beats LSU Friday afternoon. Then more chaos because the only undefeated team could potentially be Houston and we all know there is no way the BCS will put Houston in the title game......right? Don't the Cougars deserve a shot at this if there are the only undefeated team left? Otherwise, you are left with a champion with at least one loss on the year.
Go get me a 8-team playoff. The bowl season lasts long enough and has too many mediocre 6-6 teams in there. Let's play this out to next season with some dates....play the quarterfinals on Sat., Dec. 22 with the semifinals on New Year's Day and the title game on Monday, Jan. 7. Why can't this work? Saturday's top 5 losses show the need there is for one.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Getting Ready for an NFL Sunday
Time for Week 11 in the NFL to continue after Denver's win over the Jets on Thursday night. Got to love Thursday night games, huh? Maybe we can have games every week on Thursday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Make every week last forever. Things to look forward on Sunday...
1. No Vick for Philly. The Eagles QB has been ruled out along with WR Jeremy Maclin for Sunday night's game at the Giants. This is a huge blow for a Philadelphia team that needs a win and several in a row to have any chance to make the playoffs. Vince Young starts for Vick and while he can be the right-handed Vick at times, he needs to be the Vince Young of Rose Bowl glory.
2. More injuries as McFadden also out for Oakland. A lot of stars have missed games this season and that includes Darren McFadden who will sit again. Start Michael Bush in your fantasy league, he's on a roll.
3. Why so many early games? The whole schedule Sunday afternoon except for 3 games are scheduled for noon. Better watch the games early and go do something else later.
Now sit back and relax....
1. No Vick for Philly. The Eagles QB has been ruled out along with WR Jeremy Maclin for Sunday night's game at the Giants. This is a huge blow for a Philadelphia team that needs a win and several in a row to have any chance to make the playoffs. Vince Young starts for Vick and while he can be the right-handed Vick at times, he needs to be the Vince Young of Rose Bowl glory.
2. More injuries as McFadden also out for Oakland. A lot of stars have missed games this season and that includes Darren McFadden who will sit again. Start Michael Bush in your fantasy league, he's on a roll.
3. Why so many early games? The whole schedule Sunday afternoon except for 3 games are scheduled for noon. Better watch the games early and go do something else later.
Now sit back and relax....
Friday, November 18, 2011
Cubs make their hire
Friday morning brought a new regime for the fans at Clark and Addison as Dale Sveum was hired to take over an organization that needs all the help they can get. Cubs fans need to hope that Sveum comes in and does what needs to be done which would be the following.....
1. Sign Prince Fielder. A lot of Cubs fans want this and while the odds are this are slim to none, it is something that needs to be done to replace the power lost from Aramis Ramirez. He plays a solid first base and plays everyday, which is a huge positive. This should be priority 1 now that Sveum is the manager.
2. Trade Alfonso Soriano. Yes, it's a lot of money but send him to Houston to be their new DH for 2013. Let's Move On.
3. Keep Carlos Zambrano.....until he blows up again. This is the new plan for Theo and Sveum, keeping Big Z under control. He has one year left on his contract and if he has a brain, he will keep his mouth shut with the new guys in town. If he blows again though, trade him away.
Easy 3-step plan, maybe the fans on the North Side have something to cheer about again in 2012
1. Sign Prince Fielder. A lot of Cubs fans want this and while the odds are this are slim to none, it is something that needs to be done to replace the power lost from Aramis Ramirez. He plays a solid first base and plays everyday, which is a huge positive. This should be priority 1 now that Sveum is the manager.
2. Trade Alfonso Soriano. Yes, it's a lot of money but send him to Houston to be their new DH for 2013. Let's Move On.
3. Keep Carlos Zambrano.....until he blows up again. This is the new plan for Theo and Sveum, keeping Big Z under control. He has one year left on his contract and if he has a brain, he will keep his mouth shut with the new guys in town. If he blows again though, trade him away.
Easy 3-step plan, maybe the fans on the North Side have something to cheer about again in 2012
MLB Realignment
With the announcement that the Houston Astros will move to the AL West in 2013, made me think that we need to just rip up the divisions we have now and start again. To begin, we need to decide if the DH is going to go all over or go away completely. I would prefer it to just go away, let the 9 on the field bat and not just have someone sit there all game to just hit but I go on. Also, we need new conference names and get the NL and AL out of there. I give you two suggestions on how to realign, one out of the box way and one smarter way. Let's begin with the smart plan with the wacky conference names....
Plan #1: The Geographic Plan
Mountain Landis Conference
California Division: Giants, Athletics, Padres, Dodgers, Angels
This is the easiest one to do, grouping the five teams in California together and you get the battle of LA and the Bay Battle multiple times per season
Western Division: Diamondbacks, Rangers, Astros, Mariners, Rockies
Obviously here, a group of random Western teams but you get the battle of Texas with it. You can also call it the three time zone division.
Southeast Division: Nationals, Orioles, Braves, Rays, Marlins
The Mid-Atlantic going down the coast are here. Battle of Washington, battle of Florida. It works.
Peter Ueberroth Conference
North Division: Twins, Brewers, Tigers, Cubs, White Sox
Boy the snow is this division will be epic...natural rivals are all over with Cubs/Sox, Cubs/Brewers, Brewers/Twins, Tigers/Sox. I love the thought of these teams together.
Midwest Division: Royals, Cardinals, Indians, Reds, Pirates
A group together in the Lower Midwest working north into Ohio. You get Royals/Cardinals for Missouri and Reds/Indians for Ohio. Throw in Pittsburgh for being close to the other four.
Northeast Division: Blue Jays, Red Sox, Yankees, Mets, Phillies
Yes, a murderer's row of teams here but if we are going with geographics, this is the best plan.
Plan #2: The Civil War Agenda
In this plan, it is North and South with no divisions.....
North: Mariners, Twins, Brewers, Tigers, Blue Jays, Cubs, White Sox, Indians, Pirates, Giants, Athletics, Red Sox, Yankees, Mets, Phillies.
South: Dodgers, Angels, Padres, Rockies, Royals, Cardinals, Braves, Rays, Marlins, Nationals, Orioles, Reds, Rangers, Astros, Diamondbacks.
So pass on what you think....
Plan #1: The Geographic Plan
Mountain Landis Conference
California Division: Giants, Athletics, Padres, Dodgers, Angels
This is the easiest one to do, grouping the five teams in California together and you get the battle of LA and the Bay Battle multiple times per season
Western Division: Diamondbacks, Rangers, Astros, Mariners, Rockies
Obviously here, a group of random Western teams but you get the battle of Texas with it. You can also call it the three time zone division.
Southeast Division: Nationals, Orioles, Braves, Rays, Marlins
The Mid-Atlantic going down the coast are here. Battle of Washington, battle of Florida. It works.
Peter Ueberroth Conference
North Division: Twins, Brewers, Tigers, Cubs, White Sox
Boy the snow is this division will be epic...natural rivals are all over with Cubs/Sox, Cubs/Brewers, Brewers/Twins, Tigers/Sox. I love the thought of these teams together.
Midwest Division: Royals, Cardinals, Indians, Reds, Pirates
A group together in the Lower Midwest working north into Ohio. You get Royals/Cardinals for Missouri and Reds/Indians for Ohio. Throw in Pittsburgh for being close to the other four.
Northeast Division: Blue Jays, Red Sox, Yankees, Mets, Phillies
Yes, a murderer's row of teams here but if we are going with geographics, this is the best plan.
Plan #2: The Civil War Agenda
In this plan, it is North and South with no divisions.....
North: Mariners, Twins, Brewers, Tigers, Blue Jays, Cubs, White Sox, Indians, Pirates, Giants, Athletics, Red Sox, Yankees, Mets, Phillies.
South: Dodgers, Angels, Padres, Rockies, Royals, Cardinals, Braves, Rays, Marlins, Nationals, Orioles, Reds, Rangers, Astros, Diamondbacks.
So pass on what you think....
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
A short break from action.....
This blog will return on Friday as I have new things I'm considering for you to read. Be patient, tell your friends....I'll return Friday morning.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Weekend Reflections: Nov. 14
A weekend of NFL and college football has passed along with all the other sports, here are six thoughts in my brain....
- What on earth were the Falcons doing going on 4th down on their own 30 in overtime?!? Atlanta doesn't get the first down and the Saints were able to make an easy field goal to win the game. This loss will haunt the Falcons, book it.
- Let's give it up for the Bears D and special teams. Two touchdowns on interceptions plus yet another Devin Hester punt return touchdown. If you had Chicago in your fantasy league, I think you are in great shape this week. This is a completely different team since they lost in Detroit five weeks ago and proved it in stomping the Lions on the lakefront.
- How sad is it to lose a game when the opposing quarterback completes just two passes...that's what happened to the Chiefs as Tim Tebow only had two completions but still the Broncos won the game. KC is so up and down, it can make your head spin. Their division hopes are probably done.
- How about TCU? They go into Boise and upset the fifth-ranked Broncos to end any hopes Boise State had of a national championship berth. TCU lost Andy Dalton to graduation but is still close to the same strong team from last season. Now what non-BCS school gets in? I'll go with Houston and their very high-flying passing game.
- Speaking of the BCS, the new standings are out with LSU firmly at No. 1 and Oklahoma State firmly at No. 2. I don't see LSU having any problems finishing their regular season undefeated along with a win in the SEC Title Game. I think Okla. St. has one major hurdle left and that's a date with their in-state rivals on Dec. 3. The winner of that game just might be LSU's opponent.
- Hopefully you got a chance to see the Carrier Classic Friday night on the USS Carl Vinson. It was a sight to behold, watching a basketball game on an aircraft carrier. Games like that get more people involved in the sport it seems but where else can they play? Comment about it.
Fantasy Player of the Day: Texans RB Arian Foster
Foster ran for 84 yards and a touchdown along with adding four catches for 102 yards and a score as Houston improved to 7-3 on the season with 37-9 win over Tampa Bay.
Matchup to Watch: Vikings at Packers, 7:30 p.m. (CT), ESPN
Green Bay looks to stay undefeated against one of their biggest rivals in the NFC North. I would see any problems for Aaron Rodgers and company. Here's a prediction as well...The Pack win 35-17.
This Date in History: Nov. 14, 1943
We go way back for this one....Bears QB Sid Luckman throws for a record seven touchdowns and records the first 400-yard passing game in NFL history in a 56-7 win over the New York Giants. Luckman threw for 433 yards on that afternoon.
- What on earth were the Falcons doing going on 4th down on their own 30 in overtime?!? Atlanta doesn't get the first down and the Saints were able to make an easy field goal to win the game. This loss will haunt the Falcons, book it.
- Let's give it up for the Bears D and special teams. Two touchdowns on interceptions plus yet another Devin Hester punt return touchdown. If you had Chicago in your fantasy league, I think you are in great shape this week. This is a completely different team since they lost in Detroit five weeks ago and proved it in stomping the Lions on the lakefront.
- How sad is it to lose a game when the opposing quarterback completes just two passes...that's what happened to the Chiefs as Tim Tebow only had two completions but still the Broncos won the game. KC is so up and down, it can make your head spin. Their division hopes are probably done.
- How about TCU? They go into Boise and upset the fifth-ranked Broncos to end any hopes Boise State had of a national championship berth. TCU lost Andy Dalton to graduation but is still close to the same strong team from last season. Now what non-BCS school gets in? I'll go with Houston and their very high-flying passing game.
- Speaking of the BCS, the new standings are out with LSU firmly at No. 1 and Oklahoma State firmly at No. 2. I don't see LSU having any problems finishing their regular season undefeated along with a win in the SEC Title Game. I think Okla. St. has one major hurdle left and that's a date with their in-state rivals on Dec. 3. The winner of that game just might be LSU's opponent.
- Hopefully you got a chance to see the Carrier Classic Friday night on the USS Carl Vinson. It was a sight to behold, watching a basketball game on an aircraft carrier. Games like that get more people involved in the sport it seems but where else can they play? Comment about it.
Fantasy Player of the Day: Texans RB Arian Foster
Foster ran for 84 yards and a touchdown along with adding four catches for 102 yards and a score as Houston improved to 7-3 on the season with 37-9 win over Tampa Bay.
Matchup to Watch: Vikings at Packers, 7:30 p.m. (CT), ESPN
Green Bay looks to stay undefeated against one of their biggest rivals in the NFC North. I would see any problems for Aaron Rodgers and company. Here's a prediction as well...The Pack win 35-17.
This Date in History: Nov. 14, 1943
We go way back for this one....Bears QB Sid Luckman throws for a record seven touchdowns and records the first 400-yard passing game in NFL history in a 56-7 win over the New York Giants. Luckman threw for 433 yards on that afternoon.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Sunday NFL Selections
Final day of the weekend, here's six NFL predictions for you to watch for...
- Saints d. Falcons. Big NFC South matchup to see who gets control. I can see Drew Brees throwing for over 275 with 3 TDs. Give me New Orleans 24-20.
- Steelers d. Bengals. Cincy has been on a roll, winning five straight but run into a team that is trying to stay alive in the AFC North race. Ball control wins this for Pittsburgh, 20-13.
- Bucs d. Texans. A fun interconference battle as Houston tries to keep their lead in the AFC South but Tampa has been playing well with Freeman and Blount. Tampa Bay wins 31-28.
- 49ers d. Giants. Is this game in 1990? Haven't seen both teams this good playing in a long time. Jim Harbaugh has brought instant credibility and will lead San Fran to another win, 23-13.
- Bears d. Lions. The Windy City will live up to its name with winds expected to be 25-35 MPH. Very low scoring game due to that and the fact Chicago plays outside gives them this game, 10-6.
- Patriots d. Jets. Sunday night in the Big Apple. Jets tried to go all ground game last time around and it didn't work. This could be an up-and-down battle but I think New England wins 35-24.
Fantasy Player of the Day: TCU QB Casey Pachall
Pachall threw for 473 yards and five TDs as the Horned Frogs ended the 35-game home winning streak for Boise State in a 36-35 upset win over the fifth-ranked Broncos.
Matchup to Watch: Giants at 49ers, 3:15 p.m. (CT), Fox
A battle of two teams with a combined 13-3 record out on the West Coast. The New York passing game against the San Francisco running attack. A treat for anyone for one of the few late games Sunday
This Date in History: Nov. 13, 1982
Ray Mancini defeats Duk Koo Kim in Las Vegas. Kim would die four days later from his brain injuries from the fight. This would cause major changes in the sport of boxing.
- Saints d. Falcons. Big NFC South matchup to see who gets control. I can see Drew Brees throwing for over 275 with 3 TDs. Give me New Orleans 24-20.
- Steelers d. Bengals. Cincy has been on a roll, winning five straight but run into a team that is trying to stay alive in the AFC North race. Ball control wins this for Pittsburgh, 20-13.
- Bucs d. Texans. A fun interconference battle as Houston tries to keep their lead in the AFC South but Tampa has been playing well with Freeman and Blount. Tampa Bay wins 31-28.
- 49ers d. Giants. Is this game in 1990? Haven't seen both teams this good playing in a long time. Jim Harbaugh has brought instant credibility and will lead San Fran to another win, 23-13.
- Bears d. Lions. The Windy City will live up to its name with winds expected to be 25-35 MPH. Very low scoring game due to that and the fact Chicago plays outside gives them this game, 10-6.
- Patriots d. Jets. Sunday night in the Big Apple. Jets tried to go all ground game last time around and it didn't work. This could be an up-and-down battle but I think New England wins 35-24.
Fantasy Player of the Day: TCU QB Casey Pachall
Pachall threw for 473 yards and five TDs as the Horned Frogs ended the 35-game home winning streak for Boise State in a 36-35 upset win over the fifth-ranked Broncos.
Matchup to Watch: Giants at 49ers, 3:15 p.m. (CT), Fox
A battle of two teams with a combined 13-3 record out on the West Coast. The New York passing game against the San Francisco running attack. A treat for anyone for one of the few late games Sunday
This Date in History: Nov. 13, 1982
Ray Mancini defeats Duk Koo Kim in Las Vegas. Kim would die four days later from his brain injuries from the fight. This would cause major changes in the sport of boxing.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Saturday Selections
You have made it through the week, here's six college football predictions for you...
- Nebraska d. Penn State. Well, this is hard for me to predict but as I said earlier this week.....I don't think the Nittany Lions will be as focused as they need to be for a game like this. Cornhuskers 31-20.
- Auburn d. Georgia. Two ranked SEC teams, shocking huh? An afternoon in between the hedges and the Tigers are going to find a way to win on the road, 21-19.
- Wisconsin d. Minnesota. The Badgers have been rolling most of this season and I don't see any reason why they won't roll past the Gophers. Wisconsin 41-14.
- Stanford d. Oregon. The biggest matchup of the weekend with two Top 10 teams. Andrew Luck will welcome the Ducks and solidify his Heisman run with a 41-35 win.
- Oklahoma St. d. Texas Tech. The Cowboys have their destiny in their own hands to get to the BCS Title Game. This will be a close game but Okla. St. wins 38-34.
- Missouri d. Texas. This is the upset special....Texas has been running the ball very well in recent weeks but the Tigers should get their leading runner back. Missouri wins 27-20.
Fantasy Player of the Day: Kentucky F Anthony Davis
Davis scored 23 points and 10 rebounds in 23 minutes as the Wildcats won their season-opener 109-59 over Marist.
Matchup to Watch: Oregon at Stanford, 7 p.m. (CT), ABC
The fourth-ranked Cardinal host the seventh-ranked Ducks in a game that will decide the Pac-12 North and unless something changes, a spot in the Pac-12 Championship Game and possibly a trip to the Rose Bowl.
This Date in History: Nov. 12, 1920
91 years ago, Kenesaw Mountain Landis was named the first baseball commissioner ever. Landis agreed to take the job for seven years at $50,000 a year but ended up doing the job for 24 years until his death in 1944. Landis will be best remembered for the lifetime bans given to the "Black Sox" who threw the 1919 World Series.
- Nebraska d. Penn State. Well, this is hard for me to predict but as I said earlier this week.....I don't think the Nittany Lions will be as focused as they need to be for a game like this. Cornhuskers 31-20.
- Auburn d. Georgia. Two ranked SEC teams, shocking huh? An afternoon in between the hedges and the Tigers are going to find a way to win on the road, 21-19.
- Wisconsin d. Minnesota. The Badgers have been rolling most of this season and I don't see any reason why they won't roll past the Gophers. Wisconsin 41-14.
- Stanford d. Oregon. The biggest matchup of the weekend with two Top 10 teams. Andrew Luck will welcome the Ducks and solidify his Heisman run with a 41-35 win.
- Oklahoma St. d. Texas Tech. The Cowboys have their destiny in their own hands to get to the BCS Title Game. This will be a close game but Okla. St. wins 38-34.
- Missouri d. Texas. This is the upset special....Texas has been running the ball very well in recent weeks but the Tigers should get their leading runner back. Missouri wins 27-20.
Fantasy Player of the Day: Kentucky F Anthony Davis
Davis scored 23 points and 10 rebounds in 23 minutes as the Wildcats won their season-opener 109-59 over Marist.
Matchup to Watch: Oregon at Stanford, 7 p.m. (CT), ABC
The fourth-ranked Cardinal host the seventh-ranked Ducks in a game that will decide the Pac-12 North and unless something changes, a spot in the Pac-12 Championship Game and possibly a trip to the Rose Bowl.
This Date in History: Nov. 12, 1920
91 years ago, Kenesaw Mountain Landis was named the first baseball commissioner ever. Landis agreed to take the job for seven years at $50,000 a year but ended up doing the job for 24 years until his death in 1944. Landis will be best remembered for the lifetime bans given to the "Black Sox" who threw the 1919 World Series.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Fantasy Five-Pack Friday
The weekend is here, here are the five burning questions in my mind....
- How will this week's events affect Penn State's football team against Nebraska? This could go either way, the players say they are playing for Joe Paterno but how on earth can they focus after everything that has went down.
- Can Andrew Luck clinch the Heisman with a big performance against Oregon? Luck is going to be the No. 1 pick in the draft and can cement his Stanford legacy with a strong game Saturday night. If Luck plays anywhere near his normal self, just call off the ceremony and mail the trophy to Palo Alto.
- Is this going to be the weekend the NBA lockout ends? I know I've been saying that this is going to last a long time, my gut though is telling me the possibility of something happening is here. Let's wait and see if that actually happens though.
- How will basketball on an aircraft carrier look? The answer to that comes Friday night with North Carolina taking on Michigan State on the flight deck of the USS Carl Vinson in San Diego. Let's all hope for no wind to affect the ball or the ship and no rain.
- How many more free agents are the Marlins going to bring in? Albert Pujols, Jose Reyes, Mark Buehrle. It's obvious now that a big splash is coming in Miami. Pujols isn't going to Miami but I can see Reyes going there. If this all blows up, a new stadium isn't going to help.
- Well, it seems I still can't predict anything as the Raiders opened Week 10 of the NFL season with a 24-17 win over the Chargers.
Fantasy Player of the Day: Oakland RB Michael Bush
Bush ran 30 times for 157 yards and a touchdown along with three catches for 85 yards as the Raiders went on the road for a 24-17 win.
Matchup to Watch: North Carolina vs. Michigan State, 6 p.m. (CT), ESPN
The top-ranked Tarheels begin the 2011-12 season with a game against the Spartans. Will be fun to see a game on an aircraft carrier.
This Date in History: Nov. 11, 1946
The New York Knickerbockers play their first game at Madison Square Garden. 65 years later, it is looked at a mecca for basketball still.
- How will this week's events affect Penn State's football team against Nebraska? This could go either way, the players say they are playing for Joe Paterno but how on earth can they focus after everything that has went down.
- Can Andrew Luck clinch the Heisman with a big performance against Oregon? Luck is going to be the No. 1 pick in the draft and can cement his Stanford legacy with a strong game Saturday night. If Luck plays anywhere near his normal self, just call off the ceremony and mail the trophy to Palo Alto.
- Is this going to be the weekend the NBA lockout ends? I know I've been saying that this is going to last a long time, my gut though is telling me the possibility of something happening is here. Let's wait and see if that actually happens though.
- How will basketball on an aircraft carrier look? The answer to that comes Friday night with North Carolina taking on Michigan State on the flight deck of the USS Carl Vinson in San Diego. Let's all hope for no wind to affect the ball or the ship and no rain.
- How many more free agents are the Marlins going to bring in? Albert Pujols, Jose Reyes, Mark Buehrle. It's obvious now that a big splash is coming in Miami. Pujols isn't going to Miami but I can see Reyes going there. If this all blows up, a new stadium isn't going to help.
- Well, it seems I still can't predict anything as the Raiders opened Week 10 of the NFL season with a 24-17 win over the Chargers.
Fantasy Player of the Day: Oakland RB Michael Bush
Bush ran 30 times for 157 yards and a touchdown along with three catches for 85 yards as the Raiders went on the road for a 24-17 win.
Matchup to Watch: North Carolina vs. Michigan State, 6 p.m. (CT), ESPN
The top-ranked Tarheels begin the 2011-12 season with a game against the Spartans. Will be fun to see a game on an aircraft carrier.
This Date in History: Nov. 11, 1946
The New York Knickerbockers play their first game at Madison Square Garden. 65 years later, it is looked at a mecca for basketball still.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Steamrolling toward the weekend
Thursday and we have a LOT to discuss so let's get started....
- I've discussed Penn State the last two days and it gets worse each moment. Joe Paterno has been fired by the board of trustees and now the students are going nuts. Those students are going to learn a valuable life lesson when they get older. Read the grand jury report before you draw your own conclusions but after reading it myself, it's sick, disturbing and makes me ill. If any player wants to go there now after 15+ years of cover-ups, words can't explain why you would want to be associated with that.
- Now that Paterno has been fired, a new coach is needed in Happy Valley. Who would want this job though right now? You need to be a complete saint who has had nothing ever against you at this point. Why do I get this feeling we will hear Urban Meyer's name brought up? Yes he has been successful at Utah and Florida but I don't see him taking the job.
- On a much better note, let's discuss Toledo football. The Rockets have scored 126 points the last two weeks and given up the same number in going 1-1. Okay, if I'm the scoreboard operator, my fingers hurt and I want a raise. Next, love the offense but is the defense spending too much time at Tony Panko's and not enough on the practice field? Fix it, or the Glass Bowl will break.
- Sounds like the Florida...sorry Miami Marlins want to make a huge splash going into their new stadium. Jose Reyes took a tour Wednesday and Mark Buehrle has made a trip to visit his old manager as well. So if the Marlins sign Reyes, where does Hanley Ramirez go? 3rd base? 2nd base? Traded? I guess only time will tell on this but this may wake Ramirez up.
- The NBA lockout continues but at least the sides are talking, which I guess is good. Doesn't mean things are going to change but maybe if they talk, a deal can be done. I stick by my prediction of no basketball until sometime in the 2012-13 season.
- NFL Week 10 starts tonight with the Raiders traveling to San Diego to play the Chargers. Oakland is banged up in the running game with no Darren McFadden and the Chargers are coming off a shootout with the Packers. With that reasoning, I figure San Diego wins 27-10.
Fantasy Players of the Day: The Penn State Board of Trustees
Finally, a smart decision from State College, PA. Now the job of rebuilding and getting to the bottom of this whole mess can truly begin. Clean house and start new. Well done, you did what you had to do.
Matchup to Watch: Raiders at Chargers, 7:20 p.m. (CT), NFL Network
Thursday night football! Whee! Start your weekend early with this AFC West matchup.
This Date in History: Nov. 10, 1996
Dan Marino becomes the first quarterback to top 50,000 passing yards in a 37-13 win over the Colts. Marino's record has been broken by Brett Favre but Marino is still one of the top quarterbacks to ever play the game.
- I've discussed Penn State the last two days and it gets worse each moment. Joe Paterno has been fired by the board of trustees and now the students are going nuts. Those students are going to learn a valuable life lesson when they get older. Read the grand jury report before you draw your own conclusions but after reading it myself, it's sick, disturbing and makes me ill. If any player wants to go there now after 15+ years of cover-ups, words can't explain why you would want to be associated with that.
- Now that Paterno has been fired, a new coach is needed in Happy Valley. Who would want this job though right now? You need to be a complete saint who has had nothing ever against you at this point. Why do I get this feeling we will hear Urban Meyer's name brought up? Yes he has been successful at Utah and Florida but I don't see him taking the job.
- On a much better note, let's discuss Toledo football. The Rockets have scored 126 points the last two weeks and given up the same number in going 1-1. Okay, if I'm the scoreboard operator, my fingers hurt and I want a raise. Next, love the offense but is the defense spending too much time at Tony Panko's and not enough on the practice field? Fix it, or the Glass Bowl will break.
- Sounds like the Florida...sorry Miami Marlins want to make a huge splash going into their new stadium. Jose Reyes took a tour Wednesday and Mark Buehrle has made a trip to visit his old manager as well. So if the Marlins sign Reyes, where does Hanley Ramirez go? 3rd base? 2nd base? Traded? I guess only time will tell on this but this may wake Ramirez up.
- The NBA lockout continues but at least the sides are talking, which I guess is good. Doesn't mean things are going to change but maybe if they talk, a deal can be done. I stick by my prediction of no basketball until sometime in the 2012-13 season.
- NFL Week 10 starts tonight with the Raiders traveling to San Diego to play the Chargers. Oakland is banged up in the running game with no Darren McFadden and the Chargers are coming off a shootout with the Packers. With that reasoning, I figure San Diego wins 27-10.
Fantasy Players of the Day: The Penn State Board of Trustees
Finally, a smart decision from State College, PA. Now the job of rebuilding and getting to the bottom of this whole mess can truly begin. Clean house and start new. Well done, you did what you had to do.
Matchup to Watch: Raiders at Chargers, 7:20 p.m. (CT), NFL Network
Thursday night football! Whee! Start your weekend early with this AFC West matchup.
This Date in History: Nov. 10, 1996
Dan Marino becomes the first quarterback to top 50,000 passing yards in a 37-13 win over the Colts. Marino's record has been broken by Brett Favre but Marino is still one of the top quarterbacks to ever play the game.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
The Midweek Report
We have made it to Wednesday, busy times in sports. Let's dive in...
- The Penn State situation seems to get worse and worse by the moment. I've watched a lot of coverage on this and it is going to have to be a clean sweep of everyone involved with the program since 1999. The ship is sinking in Happy Valley and the bottom of the ocean is a long way down.
- The Kansas City Royals appear to want to be competitive in 2012 I guess. Now GM Dayton Moore is discussing trading for Cubs P Carlos Zambrano. If the Cubs can get a prospect and will pay over $10 million of Big Z's 17 million contract for 2012, move him along with KC.
- I guess the Bengals didn't need Carson Palmer after all as rookie Andy Dalton has led Cincy to five straight wins and a 6-2 record going into Sunday's matchup with the Steelers. There are some great matchups this week in the NFL but we'll discuss that as the weekend approaches.
- The World Series of Poker finished Tuesday night with ESPN showing it live or almost live with a 15-minute delay. Is this the future of poker? I don't know if you can find enough people willing to sit for 6-7 hours straight waiting for that special hand to happen.
- Speaking of ESPN, the time has come to get rid of four of their people. When the folks in Bristol decide to help us from having to listen to Chris Berman, Stuart Scott, Colin Cowherd and Skip Bayless, the world will be a better place. The names from Berman and the "cool as the other side of the pillow" from Scott must leave. Cowherd and Bayless are just two loudmouths who would be great to have on a show together on ESPN5 at about 4AM.
- My predictions went 7-6 this week with a 1-1 mark on the upset specials. Ummm.....got some work to do there.
Fantasy Player of the Day: Red Wings F Johan Franzen
Franzen scored three times as Detroit took home a 5-2 win over Colorado. The Red Wings have now won two straight after losing six in a row.
Matchup to Watch: Philadelphia at Tampa Bay, 6:30 p.m. (CT), Versus
The sports schedule is light on a Wednesday with no NBA so enjoy the Flyers and Lightning get it on. Philly leads the NHL in goals scored this season while Tampa looks for their first five-game home winning streak since 2007-08.
This Date in History: Nov. 9, 1961
50 years ago today, the PGA ended their "caucasians only" rule. This opened the door for players like Charlie Sifford, Lee Elder and eventually Tiger Woods.
- The Penn State situation seems to get worse and worse by the moment. I've watched a lot of coverage on this and it is going to have to be a clean sweep of everyone involved with the program since 1999. The ship is sinking in Happy Valley and the bottom of the ocean is a long way down.
- The Kansas City Royals appear to want to be competitive in 2012 I guess. Now GM Dayton Moore is discussing trading for Cubs P Carlos Zambrano. If the Cubs can get a prospect and will pay over $10 million of Big Z's 17 million contract for 2012, move him along with KC.
- I guess the Bengals didn't need Carson Palmer after all as rookie Andy Dalton has led Cincy to five straight wins and a 6-2 record going into Sunday's matchup with the Steelers. There are some great matchups this week in the NFL but we'll discuss that as the weekend approaches.
- The World Series of Poker finished Tuesday night with ESPN showing it live or almost live with a 15-minute delay. Is this the future of poker? I don't know if you can find enough people willing to sit for 6-7 hours straight waiting for that special hand to happen.
- Speaking of ESPN, the time has come to get rid of four of their people. When the folks in Bristol decide to help us from having to listen to Chris Berman, Stuart Scott, Colin Cowherd and Skip Bayless, the world will be a better place. The names from Berman and the "cool as the other side of the pillow" from Scott must leave. Cowherd and Bayless are just two loudmouths who would be great to have on a show together on ESPN5 at about 4AM.
- My predictions went 7-6 this week with a 1-1 mark on the upset specials. Ummm.....got some work to do there.
Fantasy Player of the Day: Red Wings F Johan Franzen
Franzen scored three times as Detroit took home a 5-2 win over Colorado. The Red Wings have now won two straight after losing six in a row.
Matchup to Watch: Philadelphia at Tampa Bay, 6:30 p.m. (CT), Versus
The sports schedule is light on a Wednesday with no NBA so enjoy the Flyers and Lightning get it on. Philly leads the NHL in goals scored this season while Tampa looks for their first five-game home winning streak since 2007-08.
This Date in History: Nov. 9, 1961
50 years ago today, the PGA ended their "caucasians only" rule. This opened the door for players like Charlie Sifford, Lee Elder and eventually Tiger Woods.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
It's Tuesday again
The weekend is over officially for the NFL but we'll discuss that shortly....
- It's a very sad situation at Penn State right now with the school's athletic director and vice president both resigned as the underage sex scandal grows bigger. Things were covered up for sure and someone else is going to take the fall for this. Joe Pa will need to go now, a sad way to end a great career if it goes that way.
- It was a bad season for the Minnesota Twins and now GM Bill Smith has taken the fall with his firing Monday and former GM Terry Ryan returns. The Twinkies need the power of Mauer and Morneau to return if this team wants to compete in the AL Central because the teams keep getting better around them.
- We continue baseball with the Royals trading Melky Cabrera to San Fran for pitcher Jonathan Sanchez. This is a great trade for Kansas City, give them 2 more years and watch out. Billy Butler, Eric Hosmer and company are going to win the division by 2014. Too much talent to use or to trade to get better talent.
- Here's the latest on the NBA lockout, it's still happening...no one is talking productively and I'm going to predict this now. The lockout will extend into the 2012-13 season, this is too ugly to even get fixed in a year.
- Now back to the NFL, we finish Week 9 Monday and start Week 10 Thursday night. You get teams with 3 days rest playing each other, that could be interesting or just plain bad. You want Thursday games? Do it every week then. Look at Week 16, there will be games on Thursday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday. That is also for fantasy football players their championship week, get your Tums ready.
- Sad night in the world of sports as former heavyweight champion Joe Frazier passed away. Frazier gave boxing fans three of the best fights ever against Muhammad Ali. During the day Monday, it was reported that fans were offering parts of their livers to help Frazier with his liver cancer. There is probably a match in the sky right now between Frazier and Joe Louis.
Fantasy Player of the Day: Boston F Nathan Horton
Horton scored twice and had an assist as the Bruins got their third straight win with a 6-2 win against the Islanders.
Matchup to Watch: Northern Illinois at Bowling Green, 7 p.m. (CT), ESPN2
The Huskies racked up 63 points last week in their win over Toledo, now they travel down I-75 to Bowling Green. Can they get to 63 again? Probably not but not much else is on worthwhile.
This Date in History: Nov. 8, 1970
New Orleans Saints kicker Tom Dempsey kicks a NFL-record 63-yard field goal to give the Saints a 19-17 win over the Detroit Lions. Dempsey was born with no toes on his right foot and no fingers on his right hand so Dempsey wore a special square shoe. No one has topped 63 yards since even though the record has been tied twice.
- It's a very sad situation at Penn State right now with the school's athletic director and vice president both resigned as the underage sex scandal grows bigger. Things were covered up for sure and someone else is going to take the fall for this. Joe Pa will need to go now, a sad way to end a great career if it goes that way.
- It was a bad season for the Minnesota Twins and now GM Bill Smith has taken the fall with his firing Monday and former GM Terry Ryan returns. The Twinkies need the power of Mauer and Morneau to return if this team wants to compete in the AL Central because the teams keep getting better around them.
- We continue baseball with the Royals trading Melky Cabrera to San Fran for pitcher Jonathan Sanchez. This is a great trade for Kansas City, give them 2 more years and watch out. Billy Butler, Eric Hosmer and company are going to win the division by 2014. Too much talent to use or to trade to get better talent.
- Here's the latest on the NBA lockout, it's still happening...no one is talking productively and I'm going to predict this now. The lockout will extend into the 2012-13 season, this is too ugly to even get fixed in a year.
- Now back to the NFL, we finish Week 9 Monday and start Week 10 Thursday night. You get teams with 3 days rest playing each other, that could be interesting or just plain bad. You want Thursday games? Do it every week then. Look at Week 16, there will be games on Thursday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday. That is also for fantasy football players their championship week, get your Tums ready.
- Sad night in the world of sports as former heavyweight champion Joe Frazier passed away. Frazier gave boxing fans three of the best fights ever against Muhammad Ali. During the day Monday, it was reported that fans were offering parts of their livers to help Frazier with his liver cancer. There is probably a match in the sky right now between Frazier and Joe Louis.
Fantasy Player of the Day: Boston F Nathan Horton
Horton scored twice and had an assist as the Bruins got their third straight win with a 6-2 win against the Islanders.
Matchup to Watch: Northern Illinois at Bowling Green, 7 p.m. (CT), ESPN2
The Huskies racked up 63 points last week in their win over Toledo, now they travel down I-75 to Bowling Green. Can they get to 63 again? Probably not but not much else is on worthwhile.
This Date in History: Nov. 8, 1970
New Orleans Saints kicker Tom Dempsey kicks a NFL-record 63-yard field goal to give the Saints a 19-17 win over the Detroit Lions. Dempsey was born with no toes on his right foot and no fingers on his right hand so Dempsey wore a special square shoe. No one has topped 63 yards since even though the record has been tied twice.
Monday, November 7, 2011
Monday Reflections
Here are my thoughts on the weekend gone by....
- What a shootout in San Diego with the Packers and Chargers. 83 points scored, Packers stay undefeated. I don't see anyone knocking them off anytime soon.
- Defense came to play Saturday night with LSU and Alabama. A 9-6 overtime affair won by the Tigers. Don't be shocked if those two head out with a rematch. I don't want that, give a new set of teams a chance like Oklahoma State or Stanford but who knows with the BCS.
- The NBA lockout appears to be coming down to a final showdown. This hasn't been pretty at all and keeps getting worse. I predict the season will be cancelled.
- One big NHL matchup this weekend was Vancouver going to Chicago to face the Blackhawks. The Canucks ended Chicago's season last year and Sunday night smacked around the Hawks again to the tune of 6-2. Hawks got some work to do.
- Jim Thome signed with the Phillies recently and finally Thome may get the World Series ring he richly deserves. He's a guy who signs Halloween candy for kids, he needs a ring.
- Finally a pick for Monday Night Football....Eagles d. Bears. I'm thinking Michael Vick runs through the Chicago defense with at least a touchdown and 80 yds rushing. Give me Philly 24-13.
Fantasy Player of the Day: San Diego WR Vincent Jackson
Jackson had seven catches for 141 yards and three touchdowns for the Chargers Sunday but it wasn't enough in San Diego's 45-38 loss.
Matchup to Watch: Bears at Eagles, 7:30 p.m. (CT), ESPN
A key NFC battle completed Week 9 of the NFL season. The winner will have a key tiebreaker on the other for playoff seedings or just making it at all.
This Date in History: Nov. 7, 1991
A day that no sports fan will forget as Magic Johnson announced he has HIV and retired from the Lakers. The shock is still there 20 years later.
- What a shootout in San Diego with the Packers and Chargers. 83 points scored, Packers stay undefeated. I don't see anyone knocking them off anytime soon.
- Defense came to play Saturday night with LSU and Alabama. A 9-6 overtime affair won by the Tigers. Don't be shocked if those two head out with a rematch. I don't want that, give a new set of teams a chance like Oklahoma State or Stanford but who knows with the BCS.
- The NBA lockout appears to be coming down to a final showdown. This hasn't been pretty at all and keeps getting worse. I predict the season will be cancelled.
- One big NHL matchup this weekend was Vancouver going to Chicago to face the Blackhawks. The Canucks ended Chicago's season last year and Sunday night smacked around the Hawks again to the tune of 6-2. Hawks got some work to do.
- Jim Thome signed with the Phillies recently and finally Thome may get the World Series ring he richly deserves. He's a guy who signs Halloween candy for kids, he needs a ring.
- Finally a pick for Monday Night Football....Eagles d. Bears. I'm thinking Michael Vick runs through the Chicago defense with at least a touchdown and 80 yds rushing. Give me Philly 24-13.
Fantasy Player of the Day: San Diego WR Vincent Jackson
Jackson had seven catches for 141 yards and three touchdowns for the Chargers Sunday but it wasn't enough in San Diego's 45-38 loss.
Matchup to Watch: Bears at Eagles, 7:30 p.m. (CT), ESPN
A key NFC battle completed Week 9 of the NFL season. The winner will have a key tiebreaker on the other for playoff seedings or just making it at all.
This Date in History: Nov. 7, 1991
A day that no sports fan will forget as Magic Johnson announced he has HIV and retired from the Lakers. The shock is still there 20 years later.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Sunday Selections
I gave you six college football picks on Saturday and nailed my upset special of Iowa over Michigan.....today I give you six NFL predictions.
- Steelers over Ravens. Pittsburgh can't be happy with the way the matchup during Week 1 went as Baltimore smacked the Steelers around. Steelers return the favor 21-10.
- Saints over Bucs. New Orleans played one of their worst games in a long time last week in a loss at the Rams. It won't happen again as the Saints win 38-20.
- Jets over Bills. Buffalo has had a magical season so far but the Jets will put a stop to that trend with a 16-13 win.
- Patriots over Giants. With Bradshaw likely out for the Giants, this limits their chances in what will be a high-scoring affair. Brady goes for 400 in a 45-24 win.
- 49ers over Redskins. This has big-time blowout written on it to me. Redskins can't score right now and won't this week either. Give me San Francisco 27-0.
- Chargers over Packers. This is my upset pick, I don't know why I'm picking it either but some reason I sense Rivers goes nuts and San Diego wins 31-27.
Fantasy Player of the Day: Oklahoma State QB Brandon Weeden
I brought up Weeden yesterday and goes out to throw for 501 yards with four touchdowns as the third-ranked Cowboys avoided the upset from 14th-ranked Kansas State with a 52-45 win.
Matchup to Watch: Baltimore at Pittsburgh, 7:30 p.m. (CT), NBC
Be sure you have turned your clock back and watch a brutal rivalry's next act.
This Date in History: Nov. 6, 1995
I've brought up the Ravens twice now, well here is number 3. Art Modell announced on this date that his Cleveland Browns would move to Baltimore. The Ravens have won a Super Bowl since the move and I'm sure Edgar Allen Poe is proud.
- Steelers over Ravens. Pittsburgh can't be happy with the way the matchup during Week 1 went as Baltimore smacked the Steelers around. Steelers return the favor 21-10.
- Saints over Bucs. New Orleans played one of their worst games in a long time last week in a loss at the Rams. It won't happen again as the Saints win 38-20.
- Jets over Bills. Buffalo has had a magical season so far but the Jets will put a stop to that trend with a 16-13 win.
- Patriots over Giants. With Bradshaw likely out for the Giants, this limits their chances in what will be a high-scoring affair. Brady goes for 400 in a 45-24 win.
- 49ers over Redskins. This has big-time blowout written on it to me. Redskins can't score right now and won't this week either. Give me San Francisco 27-0.
- Chargers over Packers. This is my upset pick, I don't know why I'm picking it either but some reason I sense Rivers goes nuts and San Diego wins 31-27.
Fantasy Player of the Day: Oklahoma State QB Brandon Weeden
I brought up Weeden yesterday and goes out to throw for 501 yards with four touchdowns as the third-ranked Cowboys avoided the upset from 14th-ranked Kansas State with a 52-45 win.
Matchup to Watch: Baltimore at Pittsburgh, 7:30 p.m. (CT), NBC
Be sure you have turned your clock back and watch a brutal rivalry's next act.
This Date in History: Nov. 6, 1995
I've brought up the Ravens twice now, well here is number 3. Art Modell announced on this date that his Cleveland Browns would move to Baltimore. The Ravens have won a Super Bowl since the move and I'm sure Edgar Allen Poe is proud.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Saturday Selections
It's the weekend so we will make this nice and easy, six picks for you for Saturday's college football games...
- (2) Alabama d. (1) LSU. The Crimson Tide are at home in what should be a great defensive battle. Give me Alabama 17-13.
- (10) South Carolina d. (8) Arkansas. No, this is not the SEC Pick 'Em Game I promise. I like the Gamecocks here on the road, 27-24.
- (3) Oklahoma St. d. (17) Kansas St. The high-flying Cowboys are flying high with 28 year old QB Brandon Weeden in the saddle and control their own destiny in going to the BCS Title Game. OK St. 37-20.
- (6) Oregon d. Washington. This sounds easy being one team is in the top 10 and the other isn't but this game will be closer than most people think. Ducks 31-28.
- Notre Dame d. Wake Forest. Here come the Irish on the road. They have played well after starting 0-2 and win this game 34-16.
- Iowa d. (13) Michigan. Here's your upset special. The Hawkeyes are coming off a bad loss to a bad Minnesota team and will be angry at home. Iowa 20-14.
Fantasy Player of the Day: USC QB Matt Barkley
Barkley threw a USC-record 6 TD passes Friday night as the Trojans defeated Colorado 42-17 to help USC improve to 7-2 on the season
Matchup to Watch: LSU at Alabama, 7 p.m. (CT), CBS
You must be under a rock if you don't know what this game means. Order the pizza early and get your drinks. Settle in and enjoy.
This Date in Sports History: Nov. 5, 1971
The Los Angeles Lakers defeat the Baltimore Bullets 110-106 to begin their NBA-record 33-game winning streak. The Lakers' streak has never been broken and the Lakers wouldn't lose again until January 9, 1972 at Milwaukee.
- (2) Alabama d. (1) LSU. The Crimson Tide are at home in what should be a great defensive battle. Give me Alabama 17-13.
- (10) South Carolina d. (8) Arkansas. No, this is not the SEC Pick 'Em Game I promise. I like the Gamecocks here on the road, 27-24.
- (3) Oklahoma St. d. (17) Kansas St. The high-flying Cowboys are flying high with 28 year old QB Brandon Weeden in the saddle and control their own destiny in going to the BCS Title Game. OK St. 37-20.
- (6) Oregon d. Washington. This sounds easy being one team is in the top 10 and the other isn't but this game will be closer than most people think. Ducks 31-28.
- Notre Dame d. Wake Forest. Here come the Irish on the road. They have played well after starting 0-2 and win this game 34-16.
- Iowa d. (13) Michigan. Here's your upset special. The Hawkeyes are coming off a bad loss to a bad Minnesota team and will be angry at home. Iowa 20-14.
Fantasy Player of the Day: USC QB Matt Barkley
Barkley threw a USC-record 6 TD passes Friday night as the Trojans defeated Colorado 42-17 to help USC improve to 7-2 on the season
Matchup to Watch: LSU at Alabama, 7 p.m. (CT), CBS
You must be under a rock if you don't know what this game means. Order the pizza early and get your drinks. Settle in and enjoy.
This Date in Sports History: Nov. 5, 1971
The Los Angeles Lakers defeat the Baltimore Bullets 110-106 to begin their NBA-record 33-game winning streak. The Lakers' streak has never been broken and the Lakers wouldn't lose again until January 9, 1972 at Milwaukee.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Fantasy Five-Pack Friday: Nov. 4
It's Friday so today are five burning questions in my head going into the weekend....
-Why do No. 1 LSU and No. 2 Alabama need to play now? This is a matchup that needs to wait until the BCS title game or better yet, maybe a playoff. This should be a great game one way or another, I'll have a prediction for you Saturday morning but if you love college football...this is your game.
- Is it possible we might see a 3-0 NFL game this week? Yes this may just happen with the Cardinals and Rams playing. Both could have backup QBs playing and both have had issues scoring. If this is the game in your area, take a nap instead.
- Will there be a fight in the Ravens-Steelers game Sunday night? Those two teams hate one another and the Steelers are still angry from the beatdown they got from Baltimore in Week 1. Things may get ugly.
- Is any NHL goalie worth $7 million? I guess Nashville's Pekka Rinne is since the Predators just gave him that much for the next seven years. Unless your name is Patrick Roy or Jacques Plante, I don't think so.
- Will the NBA lockout ever end? Sorry kids, we won't see Kobe or D-Rose or anyone else until at least mid-January. This is getting worse each day and have no signs of changing. Better learn to enjoy hockey or college basketball.
- Bonus 6 Thought and Question to the Audience: You got one game to win, who is your coach? Fire away a comment with your answer
Fantasy Player of the Day: Winnipeg G Ondrej Pavelec
Pavelec, who had a 3-4-1 record coming into Thursday's action, made 34 saves for the Jets in shutting out the Islanders 3-0 on the road.
Matchup to Watch: Colorado at Dallas, 7:30 p.m. (CT)
The Avalanche and Stars have combined for a 15-8 record so far this season. Gives you something to watch before Saturday's full slate of college football
This Date in History: Nov. 4, 1994
Chicago's United Center opens, officially closing the Madhouse on Madison at Chicago Stadium. The Bulls beat Charlotte 89-83. The Bulls finished 47-35 that season and some guy named Jordan showed up to play for the team late in the year.
-Why do No. 1 LSU and No. 2 Alabama need to play now? This is a matchup that needs to wait until the BCS title game or better yet, maybe a playoff. This should be a great game one way or another, I'll have a prediction for you Saturday morning but if you love college football...this is your game.
- Is it possible we might see a 3-0 NFL game this week? Yes this may just happen with the Cardinals and Rams playing. Both could have backup QBs playing and both have had issues scoring. If this is the game in your area, take a nap instead.
- Will there be a fight in the Ravens-Steelers game Sunday night? Those two teams hate one another and the Steelers are still angry from the beatdown they got from Baltimore in Week 1. Things may get ugly.
- Is any NHL goalie worth $7 million? I guess Nashville's Pekka Rinne is since the Predators just gave him that much for the next seven years. Unless your name is Patrick Roy or Jacques Plante, I don't think so.
- Will the NBA lockout ever end? Sorry kids, we won't see Kobe or D-Rose or anyone else until at least mid-January. This is getting worse each day and have no signs of changing. Better learn to enjoy hockey or college basketball.
- Bonus 6 Thought and Question to the Audience: You got one game to win, who is your coach? Fire away a comment with your answer
Fantasy Player of the Day: Winnipeg G Ondrej Pavelec
Pavelec, who had a 3-4-1 record coming into Thursday's action, made 34 saves for the Jets in shutting out the Islanders 3-0 on the road.
Matchup to Watch: Colorado at Dallas, 7:30 p.m. (CT)
The Avalanche and Stars have combined for a 15-8 record so far this season. Gives you something to watch before Saturday's full slate of college football
This Date in History: Nov. 4, 1994
Chicago's United Center opens, officially closing the Madhouse on Madison at Chicago Stadium. The Bulls beat Charlotte 89-83. The Bulls finished 47-35 that season and some guy named Jordan showed up to play for the team late in the year.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Thursday, Nov. 3
Here are today's topics.....
- We brought up the Cubs yesterday with the completion of the "Dream Team" front office. Now Theo and company have fired Mike Quade. Theo wants a manager with some major league managing or coaching experience so that leaves Ryne Sandberg out of the mix.....so who will be the next Cubs manager? I'll give you two names that I think it will be. You are looking at either Terry Francona or Dale Sveum. Sveum being the former Brewers legend, let the guessing game begin.
- We shall continue the baseball conversation with these three free agent predictions....Pujols remains in St. Louis, Fielder goes to the Cubs and Aramis Ramirez is a Tiger next season. Pujols is this generation's Stan Musial in St. Louis, he's not leaving. Prince doesn't want to leave the Central and can go just 90 miles down the road and Detroit really needs a 3B. Put Ramirez in there with Cabrera and Martinez and watch out.
- So the Capitals' coaching staff decided that Alex Ovechkin didn't need to be on the ice late in regulation Tuesday night...this move will backfire. Only time will time when.
- The NBA lockout is still going on.....
- NFL season is near at the midpoint, two things are for sure I figure.....The Packers will be the NFC rep in Super Bowl XLI and the No. 1 pick or the "Luck" of the draw will go to Miami. The Dolphins have 1-15 written all over them right now.
- On the draft note, if Indianapolis finishes with the No. 1 pick. I feel very confident San Francisco will be calling to try to get that pick with former Stanford coach Jim Harbaugh in charge. What it would take to get it is anyone's guess but figure on some packages that involves at least 4 draft picks, 3 of which in the first round.
Fantasy Player of the Day: Toronto LW Joffrey Lupul
Lupul scored a hat trick, all in the second period as the Maple Leafs hit the road for a 5-3 win over the Devils.
Matchup to Watch: Florida St. at Boston College, 7 p.m. (CT), ESPN
The Seminoles need a win to stay in the chase in the ACC Atlantic Division and hope that Clemson slips up again at some point the rest of the way.
This Day in History: Nov. 3, 1989
Lou Pinella takes over as manager of the Cincinnati Reds after Pete Rose is banned from baseball forever. Pinella would lead the Reds to a World Series title in his first year at the helm in 1990, sweeping the Oakland A's.
- We brought up the Cubs yesterday with the completion of the "Dream Team" front office. Now Theo and company have fired Mike Quade. Theo wants a manager with some major league managing or coaching experience so that leaves Ryne Sandberg out of the mix.....so who will be the next Cubs manager? I'll give you two names that I think it will be. You are looking at either Terry Francona or Dale Sveum. Sveum being the former Brewers legend, let the guessing game begin.
- We shall continue the baseball conversation with these three free agent predictions....Pujols remains in St. Louis, Fielder goes to the Cubs and Aramis Ramirez is a Tiger next season. Pujols is this generation's Stan Musial in St. Louis, he's not leaving. Prince doesn't want to leave the Central and can go just 90 miles down the road and Detroit really needs a 3B. Put Ramirez in there with Cabrera and Martinez and watch out.
- So the Capitals' coaching staff decided that Alex Ovechkin didn't need to be on the ice late in regulation Tuesday night...this move will backfire. Only time will time when.
- The NBA lockout is still going on.....
- NFL season is near at the midpoint, two things are for sure I figure.....The Packers will be the NFC rep in Super Bowl XLI and the No. 1 pick or the "Luck" of the draw will go to Miami. The Dolphins have 1-15 written all over them right now.
- On the draft note, if Indianapolis finishes with the No. 1 pick. I feel very confident San Francisco will be calling to try to get that pick with former Stanford coach Jim Harbaugh in charge. What it would take to get it is anyone's guess but figure on some packages that involves at least 4 draft picks, 3 of which in the first round.
Fantasy Player of the Day: Toronto LW Joffrey Lupul
Lupul scored a hat trick, all in the second period as the Maple Leafs hit the road for a 5-3 win over the Devils.
Matchup to Watch: Florida St. at Boston College, 7 p.m. (CT), ESPN
The Seminoles need a win to stay in the chase in the ACC Atlantic Division and hope that Clemson slips up again at some point the rest of the way.
This Day in History: Nov. 3, 1989
Lou Pinella takes over as manager of the Cincinnati Reds after Pete Rose is banned from baseball forever. Pinella would lead the Reds to a World Series title in his first year at the helm in 1990, sweeping the Oakland A's.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Time for a new direction
We begin fresh today with 9 sports-related topics which will include each day, this date in history, fantasy player of the week and matchup to watch.....
- The Cubs completed their Dream Team in the front office with Jed Hoyer and Jason McLeod's news conference. Will those moves along with Theo Epstein make any difference? You would think so at least upstairs, now if the three of them can figure out how to get rid of Soriano and Zambrano.
- T.J. Houshmandzadeh is back, this time with the Raiders. A reunion with Carson Palmer as well. Oakland has a great running game and if they can get the passing game on track, a West Division title is in the offing.
- The NBA season didn't start on time Tuesday, ruining a title celebration in Dallas and the beginning of what Miami might do next with LeBron, D-Wade and Bosh. Neither side seems to care about what the fans want, might want to think that one over guys.
- The Big East appears ready to replace all their losses with six fresh schools including Boise State. What's next, a conference that goes from coast to coast? Just put Hawaii with South Florida in a conference while you are at it. Realignment has got out of hand, too bad it can't just be geographic but money is the all mighty game-changer.
-What is going on with the Red Wings? Five straight losses after Tuesday's defeat to the Wild. Five goals in five games won't work in the Motor City. Scoring had better improve and you can be sure it will.
- Game of the night Tuesday was Northern Illinois at Toledo. 63-60! 1,100 yards of offense! Seems like the glass broke inside the Glass Bowl with all that offense and zero defense. 11 touchdown passes were thrown, two kicks were returned for touchdowns as well. A ESPN Classic if ever to find one.
Fantasy Player of the Day: Toledo WR Eric Page
Back to the NIU-Toledo Game we go again, Page had nine catches for 155 yards and five touchdowns. The 5 TDs was more than Page had in his first eight games this season. Page also topped 3,000 career receiving yards in the loss.
Matchup to Watch: Philadelphia (6-4-1) at Buffalo (6-4-0), 6:30 p.m. (CT), Versus
The Flyers and Sabres match up in the birthplace of wings. Buffalo has struggled recently after winning four of their first five games of the season as this is a rematch of last season's Eastern Conference quarterfinal.
This Day in History: Nov. 2, 1969
In going with the high-scoring theme, New Orleans QB Billy Kilmer and St. Louis QB Charley Johnson each threw six TD passes as the Saints won 51-42 to win their first game of the season.
- The Cubs completed their Dream Team in the front office with Jed Hoyer and Jason McLeod's news conference. Will those moves along with Theo Epstein make any difference? You would think so at least upstairs, now if the three of them can figure out how to get rid of Soriano and Zambrano.
- T.J. Houshmandzadeh is back, this time with the Raiders. A reunion with Carson Palmer as well. Oakland has a great running game and if they can get the passing game on track, a West Division title is in the offing.
- The NBA season didn't start on time Tuesday, ruining a title celebration in Dallas and the beginning of what Miami might do next with LeBron, D-Wade and Bosh. Neither side seems to care about what the fans want, might want to think that one over guys.
- The Big East appears ready to replace all their losses with six fresh schools including Boise State. What's next, a conference that goes from coast to coast? Just put Hawaii with South Florida in a conference while you are at it. Realignment has got out of hand, too bad it can't just be geographic but money is the all mighty game-changer.
-What is going on with the Red Wings? Five straight losses after Tuesday's defeat to the Wild. Five goals in five games won't work in the Motor City. Scoring had better improve and you can be sure it will.
- Game of the night Tuesday was Northern Illinois at Toledo. 63-60! 1,100 yards of offense! Seems like the glass broke inside the Glass Bowl with all that offense and zero defense. 11 touchdown passes were thrown, two kicks were returned for touchdowns as well. A ESPN Classic if ever to find one.
Fantasy Player of the Day: Toledo WR Eric Page
Back to the NIU-Toledo Game we go again, Page had nine catches for 155 yards and five touchdowns. The 5 TDs was more than Page had in his first eight games this season. Page also topped 3,000 career receiving yards in the loss.
Matchup to Watch: Philadelphia (6-4-1) at Buffalo (6-4-0), 6:30 p.m. (CT), Versus
The Flyers and Sabres match up in the birthplace of wings. Buffalo has struggled recently after winning four of their first five games of the season as this is a rematch of last season's Eastern Conference quarterfinal.
This Day in History: Nov. 2, 1969
In going with the high-scoring theme, New Orleans QB Billy Kilmer and St. Louis QB Charley Johnson each threw six TD passes as the Saints won 51-42 to win their first game of the season.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Friday thoughts
As we approach the weekend, a quick group of observations...
- Edwin Jackson looks really good in a White Sox uniform after a 13-strikeout game in a 5-1 win over the Rays
- Nice to see the Pirates fans supporting their team after a hot start, over 39,000 at PNC Park Thursday
- Nothing like a ton of day baseball, the way it should be. I guess more for summer time when the kids are out school but more day ball please
- Dear Red Sox, win a game sometime before June
- Expect something strange to happen this weekend between the Cubs and Brewers in Milwaukee. Something we haven't seen in a long time, don't know exactly what though
- Note to Tsuyoshi Nishioka, while you are out with your broken leg, try to find a way to get stronger. I hate to tell you but you are going to get hurt more if you don't and learn to play the American game
Now back to watch more tape....
- Edwin Jackson looks really good in a White Sox uniform after a 13-strikeout game in a 5-1 win over the Rays
- Nice to see the Pirates fans supporting their team after a hot start, over 39,000 at PNC Park Thursday
- Nothing like a ton of day baseball, the way it should be. I guess more for summer time when the kids are out school but more day ball please
- Dear Red Sox, win a game sometime before June
- Expect something strange to happen this weekend between the Cubs and Brewers in Milwaukee. Something we haven't seen in a long time, don't know exactly what though
- Note to Tsuyoshi Nishioka, while you are out with your broken leg, try to find a way to get stronger. I hate to tell you but you are going to get hurt more if you don't and learn to play the American game
Now back to watch more tape....
Thursday, April 7, 2011
The back end of the week begins
5 thoughts on Wednesday's action....
- It seems that the length of last season is not slowing Tim Lincicum, at least not so far. A 13 strikeout effort against San Diego and Lincicum has given up just eight hits in two starts this season. That Giants pitching staff was supposed to be good this season and from the top, it is proving their worth right now.
- The Red Sox lose again?!?! Yes it is just five games and the chemistry is not there probably but somewhere a panic button or two is going off, the distinct possibility of starting 1-8 or 2-7 is there with the Yankees coming to Fenway this weekend.
- The team that the Red Sox couldn't beat to start the season can't be beat by no one right now in Texas. Sitting at 6-0 after defeating King Felix and the Mariners, the offense continues to show up and any sort of pitching continues and it will be a repeat in the AL West
- Worst teams in no order right now.....Astros, Rays, Diamondbacks. Yes the D'Backs beat the Cubs Wednesday but it's a mess in Arizona.
- Best teams in no order....Reds, Rangers, Phillies. One loss between these teams. Not enough credit is being given to Cincinnati, a lot of experts predicted them to win the division again and even with their injuries, that offense is unstoppable.
Best of the Day Thursday Predictions
Hitter: Neil Walker, Pirates. Walker hit his second homer of the season Wednesday and has been on a tear to start the season. Thinking at least a hit and a RBI against Colorado
Pitcher: Jon Lester, Red Sox. While Lester got lit up in Texas, he will stop the bleeding for Boston, 7IP, 6H, ER, 9K
Game: Atlanta at Milwaukee. Tommy Hanson vs. Shawn Marcum pitching matchup. This game will be low-scoring, probably 2-1 or 3-2.
Back into the dugout now...
- It seems that the length of last season is not slowing Tim Lincicum, at least not so far. A 13 strikeout effort against San Diego and Lincicum has given up just eight hits in two starts this season. That Giants pitching staff was supposed to be good this season and from the top, it is proving their worth right now.
- The Red Sox lose again?!?! Yes it is just five games and the chemistry is not there probably but somewhere a panic button or two is going off, the distinct possibility of starting 1-8 or 2-7 is there with the Yankees coming to Fenway this weekend.
- The team that the Red Sox couldn't beat to start the season can't be beat by no one right now in Texas. Sitting at 6-0 after defeating King Felix and the Mariners, the offense continues to show up and any sort of pitching continues and it will be a repeat in the AL West
- Worst teams in no order right now.....Astros, Rays, Diamondbacks. Yes the D'Backs beat the Cubs Wednesday but it's a mess in Arizona.
- Best teams in no order....Reds, Rangers, Phillies. One loss between these teams. Not enough credit is being given to Cincinnati, a lot of experts predicted them to win the division again and even with their injuries, that offense is unstoppable.
Best of the Day Thursday Predictions
Hitter: Neil Walker, Pirates. Walker hit his second homer of the season Wednesday and has been on a tear to start the season. Thinking at least a hit and a RBI against Colorado
Pitcher: Jon Lester, Red Sox. While Lester got lit up in Texas, he will stop the bleeding for Boston, 7IP, 6H, ER, 9K
Game: Atlanta at Milwaukee. Tommy Hanson vs. Shawn Marcum pitching matchup. This game will be low-scoring, probably 2-1 or 3-2.
Back into the dugout now...
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Midweek Report
Changes are upon us...let's take a look
- Finally, the Angels decided that they had enough of Mr. Rodney yesterday putting Jordan Walden into the closer's role. The kid proved his worth saving his first chance of the season. Walden is a kid who bares watching as the season goes on, a great pickup for any fantasy team and if he can hang on to the role, someone who has a very bright future ahead of him.
- The injury of the year is going to the appendix. Adam Dunn had emergency surgery to remove his last night and Matt Holliday went through the same thing last week. Should they be an over/under on how many more of these we see this season?
- Another tread from Tuesday was all the extra inning games with four games going to the 10th or later. Managers have got to hate this and the chance they blow their bullpen out this early in the season, forcing them to look for help from the minors.
- Are the Red Sox even planning to win a game? This time, Boston lost to the Indians while only having four hits on the night. Is there a chemistry issue starting off here? You have to figure a turnaround is coming since it is only four games but any slump is a slump.
- More trending is the fact that you have to be scared when the Royals have the last at-bat. Four wins in their final at-bat this season already including last night's 12 inning win over the White Sox. A 4-1 start in KC, impressive. How long does it last though?
- Here's what to look for today....Will the Rangers stay undefeated having to face King Felix and the Mariners? Can the Orioles stay undefeated against the Tigers and Justin Verlander? Who wins first, the Rays or the Astros?
Thoughts and questions to start the baseball day, time to get back to the dugout.
- Finally, the Angels decided that they had enough of Mr. Rodney yesterday putting Jordan Walden into the closer's role. The kid proved his worth saving his first chance of the season. Walden is a kid who bares watching as the season goes on, a great pickup for any fantasy team and if he can hang on to the role, someone who has a very bright future ahead of him.
- The injury of the year is going to the appendix. Adam Dunn had emergency surgery to remove his last night and Matt Holliday went through the same thing last week. Should they be an over/under on how many more of these we see this season?
- Another tread from Tuesday was all the extra inning games with four games going to the 10th or later. Managers have got to hate this and the chance they blow their bullpen out this early in the season, forcing them to look for help from the minors.
- Are the Red Sox even planning to win a game? This time, Boston lost to the Indians while only having four hits on the night. Is there a chemistry issue starting off here? You have to figure a turnaround is coming since it is only four games but any slump is a slump.
- More trending is the fact that you have to be scared when the Royals have the last at-bat. Four wins in their final at-bat this season already including last night's 12 inning win over the White Sox. A 4-1 start in KC, impressive. How long does it last though?
- Here's what to look for today....Will the Rangers stay undefeated having to face King Felix and the Mariners? Can the Orioles stay undefeated against the Tigers and Justin Verlander? Who wins first, the Rays or the Astros?
Thoughts and questions to start the baseball day, time to get back to the dugout.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Looking back at a light Monday in baseball
A light day of games on Monday but still things to discuss....
- The Brewers fell to 0-4 with a 2-1 loss to the Braves. Now the Manager did predict Milwaukee to win the NL Central but so far, the Brew Crew is sleeping at the wheel. Zach Greinke can't save them right now if the offense isn't there. If this continues and yes it is early but you can expect Prince Fielder is traded at the deadline on July 31. They will need to get something back for him if they have no chance in the division.
- Nelson Cruz hit his fourth HR in as many games as the Rangers improved to 4-0. If the home runs are flying out now, what are they going to do in the summer in Arlington. Looking more and more like Texas has a great chance to get back to the playoffs and may give Boston a run for their money.
- Another 4-0 team is Baltimore. It is nice to see for the Orioles' fans that they can watch a winning team for the first time in a long time. Brian Roberts and Nick Markakis are looking great in the opening four games and the starting pitchers have given up just two earned runs in 26 innings. That won't last forever but watch out for the Orioles.
- This was one of the questions yesterday about attendance and you can see the fandom in Wrigleyville isn't buying in just yet. Smallest crowd in eight years saw the Cubs beat Arizona 4-1 Monday afternoon. It's cold and windy in the Midwest in the springtime and school is still in session but you would figure all the people who have no chance at the summer game tickets would jump all over the early games.
- Some of the Opening Day starters are back today for their second start of the season like CC Sabathia, Derek Lowe and Jared Weaver. Let's predict all three get to 2-0 on the year.
Back into the dugout now.....
- The Brewers fell to 0-4 with a 2-1 loss to the Braves. Now the Manager did predict Milwaukee to win the NL Central but so far, the Brew Crew is sleeping at the wheel. Zach Greinke can't save them right now if the offense isn't there. If this continues and yes it is early but you can expect Prince Fielder is traded at the deadline on July 31. They will need to get something back for him if they have no chance in the division.
- Nelson Cruz hit his fourth HR in as many games as the Rangers improved to 4-0. If the home runs are flying out now, what are they going to do in the summer in Arlington. Looking more and more like Texas has a great chance to get back to the playoffs and may give Boston a run for their money.
- Another 4-0 team is Baltimore. It is nice to see for the Orioles' fans that they can watch a winning team for the first time in a long time. Brian Roberts and Nick Markakis are looking great in the opening four games and the starting pitchers have given up just two earned runs in 26 innings. That won't last forever but watch out for the Orioles.
- This was one of the questions yesterday about attendance and you can see the fandom in Wrigleyville isn't buying in just yet. Smallest crowd in eight years saw the Cubs beat Arizona 4-1 Monday afternoon. It's cold and windy in the Midwest in the springtime and school is still in session but you would figure all the people who have no chance at the summer game tickets would jump all over the early games.
- Some of the Opening Day starters are back today for their second start of the season like CC Sabathia, Derek Lowe and Jared Weaver. Let's predict all three get to 2-0 on the year.
Back into the dugout now.....
Monday, April 4, 2011
Things to look for this week
Nine items to pay attention to...
- How do the Rays replace Longoria?
- Can the Royals continue their hot streak?
- What will the weather do next?
- When will the Red Sox win a game?
- Do Kinsler and Cruz hit three more home runs this week?
- Any more standout pitchers to come through?
- How bad do the Brewers need Greinke now?
- Who will be the fantasy stud of the week? You predict that
- How bad will attendance get?
Let's see how those questions are answered as the week goes on....
- How do the Rays replace Longoria?
- Can the Royals continue their hot streak?
- What will the weather do next?
- When will the Red Sox win a game?
- Do Kinsler and Cruz hit three more home runs this week?
- Any more standout pitchers to come through?
- How bad do the Brewers need Greinke now?
- Who will be the fantasy stud of the week? You predict that
- How bad will attendance get?
Let's see how those questions are answered as the week goes on....
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Sunday Report
Another day of exciting baseball, on this Sunday here are some questions that need to be asked.
- What is wrong in St. Louis? Yes, Wainwright is out and so is Holliday right now but no matter what you can't be giving up 11 runs to the Padres. Could be a long season brewing by the Arch.
- Who will beat the Phillies rotation? Through two games, they appear unstoppable with Halladay and Lee. Now what will Hamels and Oswalt do in their opening starts.
- Will we see a no-hitter this week? Chris Tillman and Kyle Drabek flirted with them on Saturday. The pitchers are ahead of the hitters no doubt about that.
Enjoy today's games and the card will be refilled later.
- What is wrong in St. Louis? Yes, Wainwright is out and so is Holliday right now but no matter what you can't be giving up 11 runs to the Padres. Could be a long season brewing by the Arch.
- Who will beat the Phillies rotation? Through two games, they appear unstoppable with Halladay and Lee. Now what will Hamels and Oswalt do in their opening starts.
- Will we see a no-hitter this week? Chris Tillman and Kyle Drabek flirted with them on Saturday. The pitchers are ahead of the hitters no doubt about that.
Enjoy today's games and the card will be refilled later.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
A Saturday look
Two days into the season, every team has played at least once and some things are coming to the forefront right off the bat....
- Defense is seriously lacking right now. The Athletics committed five errors last night in their loss to the Mariners and other teams can't seem to pick up the ball on a regular basis. Pitching and defense is the name of the game.
- Question for Seattle management....why is King Felix pitching a complete game in his first start of the year. While he may have only thrown 108 pitches, why risk it this early in the season. Eight innings would have been just fine, save some bullets for later.
- If you are a Cubs fan, didn't the Neil Walker grand slam bring up deja vu for you? Same inning, same score, same situation, same pitcher as Game 1 of the 2008 NLDS and instead of James Loney hitting it out, it was Walker. Walker is going to be a very solid player for the Pirates this season. They may even win over 70 games but they can't seem to beat anyone but the Cubs so maybe they should schedule them some more.
- Closers have issues all over as well from John Axford to Brandon Lyon to Ryan Franklin, the closer position is always a revolving door unless you have a shutdown guy at the back end. If these three don't pitch better next time around, the door begins to move a little quicker for the way out.
- Also we were all meant to believe home runs were going to be down with the steroid era ending, I guess that memo didn't get across the border to Toronto. The Blue Jays knocked around Twins' starter Carl Pavano and company for four dingers in their 13-3 win Friday night. A scary team that can really hit the ball and is starting to get their pitching figured out.
Time for some games now for the Manager, we'll write out the lineup card again later
- Defense is seriously lacking right now. The Athletics committed five errors last night in their loss to the Mariners and other teams can't seem to pick up the ball on a regular basis. Pitching and defense is the name of the game.
- Question for Seattle management....why is King Felix pitching a complete game in his first start of the year. While he may have only thrown 108 pitches, why risk it this early in the season. Eight innings would have been just fine, save some bullets for later.
- If you are a Cubs fan, didn't the Neil Walker grand slam bring up deja vu for you? Same inning, same score, same situation, same pitcher as Game 1 of the 2008 NLDS and instead of James Loney hitting it out, it was Walker. Walker is going to be a very solid player for the Pirates this season. They may even win over 70 games but they can't seem to beat anyone but the Cubs so maybe they should schedule them some more.
- Closers have issues all over as well from John Axford to Brandon Lyon to Ryan Franklin, the closer position is always a revolving door unless you have a shutdown guy at the back end. If these three don't pitch better next time around, the door begins to move a little quicker for the way out.
- Also we were all meant to believe home runs were going to be down with the steroid era ending, I guess that memo didn't get across the border to Toronto. The Blue Jays knocked around Twins' starter Carl Pavano and company for four dingers in their 13-3 win Friday night. A scary team that can really hit the ball and is starting to get their pitching figured out.
Time for some games now for the Manager, we'll write out the lineup card again later
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