WEEKEND PICKS...
Last weekend failed to meet expectations. I had looked forward to it for so long and then it came and went. I spent Saturday watching my Noles get hammered by Oklahoma and it really soured the day for me. Luckily, my picks were much better for week 2 than week 1. I was right on the Michigan, Florida, Alabama, Ohio State, Oregon, and USC picks (although a couple of those games were closer than I expected). I lost on UGA, Georgia Tech (who knew Turner Gill's team was actually getting ready to play THIS team all off season and forgot about week 1), and of course the heartbreak in Norman. Oh Well, after a very good 6 - 3 weekend, in which 2 of my 3 losses were with underdogs, I am at a very mediocre 7 - 6 on the season. This week will be a little harder because I will include some NFL games.
SATURDAY'S PICKS:
Arkansas @ Georgia. Talk about a must win game. Georgia can't afford to lose another SEC game, and Arkansas does not want to limp into the Alabama game coning off of a loss. Ryan Mallett will have a big time stage to show his stuff. He will look to get Arkansas a big road win and end UGA's season. This game will have points and that would lead me to lean Arkansas. They have the best qb in the conference against a freshman qb. Call me crazy, but I think Arkansas comes in looking to Alabama and Georgia finds a way to win a high scoring game that gets in the 30's for both teams. They could be headed towards a season like they had a few years back where they ended up in the Sugar Bowl.
Georgia Tech @ North Carolina. I was talking to a Tech fan today and I promised I would root for Tech, which is easy to do, because I think they will rebound nicely after a disappointing road loss last week. A team like Tech wears you down and that will hurt UNC who is short on quality depth with all of the suspensions. Expect a close ball game that Tech pulls away in the 4th quarter.
Iowa @ Arizona. This is a game that many are not paying attention to, especially since it has a 10:30 kickoff, but it will tell us a lot about both of these teams. Arizona has a really good offense and will look to come out and get a good start early. Good thing for Iowa they have a good defense and a senior qb who will not be rattled on the road. Look for Iowa to win a very good ball game.
Nebraska @ Washington. This game is going to end the Jake Locker for Heisman talk. I think Nebraska goes on the road and completely shuts down the Washington offense. Nebraska is the real deal and defensively they will show that this weekend. Taylor Martinez will struggle some on the road, but will play well enough to get an im pressive road win.
Texas @ Texas Tech. Everyone seems to believe his game will be close. Rivalry games are always close and Texas has been underwhelming up to this point. That ends this weekend. They will come out and be very solid on the road. This is the coming out party for Garrett Gilbert. He will look very god and they will march on to the upcoming Red River Shoot Out with Oklahoma.
BYU @ FSU. FSU will win big. Christian Ponder will look like what he was expected in the preseason. He'll have huge numbers and FSU wins by 2 touchdowns.
Florida @ Tennessee. Florida looked like they finally figured it out last week. They finish putting the pieces of the puzzle together this weekend and they start moving towards the SEC Championship game this weekend against Tennessee.
POSSIBLE UPSET:
Baylor @ TCU. Robbert Griffin is a great athlete who could give the Horned Frogs fits. TCU finds a way to win a very entertaining ball game.
SUNDAY'S GAMES:
Miami @ Minnesota. I love the Dolphins this year. Chad Henne made great progress last year and the addition of Brandon Marshall will continue to help him to grow. I am not sold on the fact that Brett Favre wants to be playing football. This game will be close, but I think Miami will pull of the 1st big upset of the season.
Baltimore @ Cincinatti. Cincy is in a must win situation after the beat down suffered last week at New England. Unfortunately, Baltimore saw that and looks like they may be back to form of 5 years ago. The loss of Ed Reed was not a factor against the Jets. Palmer looked gun shy to me and had several balls that should have been picked against New England. Look for the Ravens to get a couple of picks and Flacco will have a good game against that defense. Ravens win easily.
New England @ New York Jets. The Jets looked terrible on offense on Monday night against the Ravens. The problem is the Pats are not the Ravens and there is no Rey Lewis roaming the field for the Pats. The problem is the Pats are loaded at receiver and the Ravens had a lot of success finding mis matches against Antonio Cromartie and Kyle Wilson. Brady seems to be back to regular season form, and we all know he hates the Jets. Rex Ryan will have his team looking to hit Brady every chance they can, it won't matter, the Pats are very under rated in the secondary and the Jets have no threats at receiver and who knows if Sanchez can get them the ball. The Pats spent all off season hearing about how great the Jets were gonna be and how the Jets were the team to beat in the division, on Sunday, the Pats will do just that. Pats win a low scoring game.
New york Giants @ Indianoplis. Another must win game. The Giants have the better team. They have a running game, a pass rush, underrated receivers, and a Manning. Unfortunately, it is the wrong Manning. Peyton does not lose at home (unless ownership wants him to...joke). Manning wins and I think they will win by 2 touchdowns.
There are my picks for the weekend, what do you think?
Until Next Time...
Friday, September 17, 2010
Thursday, September 16, 2010
WHAT DID YOU REALLY EXPECT...
WHAT DID YOU REALLY EXPECT...
There has been a lot of talk over the New York Jets and the "catcalls" (forgive me, but I do not even know what that means) of female reporter Ines Sainz. I have a different view of this situation, but before I give you that I need you to understand a few things. I am a born again christian who enjoys football as much as anyone you will meet. I also spend any extra time that I may have watching football. There are many things that I do not agree with. The Hard Knocks premise has always fascinated me, did not watch it, I did not approve of the language. Any Given Sunday was a movie that many people say gives a real look at what the life in pro football is like behind the scenes, I did not watch it, too much language. The ESPN show a few years back was taken off the air because many people believed it was to realistic and it hurt the leauges image, I did not watch this because I did not agree with the off the field stuff, I love the game of football. That being said, this is not about my personal views as a christian, this is about right and wrong in terms of men and women. This is about the hypocrisy that is the liberal feminist movement and the double standard that exists for women.
This is not a case of do women have the right to cover male sports. Of course, they do. This is a case of SHOULD WOMEN BE ALLOWED IN THE MEN'S LOCKER ROOM? Absolutely not. They have no business going inside of a clubhouse in any sport. That is a place where the players are at their worst and no woman should ever be allowed in a locker room.
Let me ask this question, what do you expect to happen in a pro sports locker room? There are people with money and a sense of invincibility about them who are coming off of an adrenaline rush that is the sport they play in. That's why people love locker room quotes after a bad game. The most popular person after a bad game is the person who plays the worst, because he will say something crazy. Now you take the fact that these guys in locker rooms have a party mentality, especially after a win, you are going to hear and see things that most people are not going to want to hear. Ms. Sainz went into the Jets PRIVATE lockeroom with the other reporters but she did not carry herself like other reporters (I will post a link to an interview she did which shows exactly how she was dressed).
I know, all of you feminists are ready to start screaming about equality in the workplace. She should be allowed to do anything a man can do, I agree completely, the problem with your liberal view is men are not allowed inside of a woman's locker room. We could never allow such a thing, because men are pigs. If they are such pigs, why would you allow women in an area where men are running around many times without any clothes on? The problem here is not what these men said (no, i do not think I agree with "catcalling" - whatever that is), but again, I ask what did you expect? There is a double standard and we are blaming these guys for what, acting the part of a jacked up jock who was in the security of his locker room?
The real question is this, where are all of the feminists who have fought for years for equality in the workplace? Why are you not outraged that Ms. Sainz has shown exactly why this should not be going on? Why are you not out there defending the players like you would if it were a LPGA golfer who was treated like this by a male reporter? Why are you saying she is just going to work to do here job? Why is it Michelle Tafoya, Suzy Kolber, even Erin Andrews have ever felt the need to go for an interview dresses this way? I am sorry, where do I get off with my sexist views and expecting some answers?
The truth of the matter is, Ms. Sainz is not the victim here, the players are. They can not control the fact that they are required to go to work. They can not control the fact that women are allowed in the locker room. They've been there before and they carry themselves professionally. They could not control the clothing of Ms. Sainz. She got up, knew she was going into a NFL locker room, and chose to dress in tight, form fitting, low cut clothes. She is the one who tweeted about being uncomfortable, and she is the one gaining popularity for it. If she was so uncomfortable, why did she not file a formal complaint, maybe they Jets organization was able to meet the asking price of Ms. Sainz.
I am begging anybody to try to defend Ms. Sainz. Please explain to me how I am wrong and how she is the true victim. Something tells me there will not be many responses, because there is nothing that can be said here but you are right, and people don't like saying that for some reason.
Here is the link where Ms. Sainz talks about the incindent and they will show you the choice of clothing for the Jets Locker Rooom.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/09/14/new-york-jets-reporter_n_716136.html
UNTIL NEXT TIME...
There has been a lot of talk over the New York Jets and the "catcalls" (forgive me, but I do not even know what that means) of female reporter Ines Sainz. I have a different view of this situation, but before I give you that I need you to understand a few things. I am a born again christian who enjoys football as much as anyone you will meet. I also spend any extra time that I may have watching football. There are many things that I do not agree with. The Hard Knocks premise has always fascinated me, did not watch it, I did not approve of the language. Any Given Sunday was a movie that many people say gives a real look at what the life in pro football is like behind the scenes, I did not watch it, too much language. The ESPN show a few years back was taken off the air because many people believed it was to realistic and it hurt the leauges image, I did not watch this because I did not agree with the off the field stuff, I love the game of football. That being said, this is not about my personal views as a christian, this is about right and wrong in terms of men and women. This is about the hypocrisy that is the liberal feminist movement and the double standard that exists for women.
This is not a case of do women have the right to cover male sports. Of course, they do. This is a case of SHOULD WOMEN BE ALLOWED IN THE MEN'S LOCKER ROOM? Absolutely not. They have no business going inside of a clubhouse in any sport. That is a place where the players are at their worst and no woman should ever be allowed in a locker room.
Let me ask this question, what do you expect to happen in a pro sports locker room? There are people with money and a sense of invincibility about them who are coming off of an adrenaline rush that is the sport they play in. That's why people love locker room quotes after a bad game. The most popular person after a bad game is the person who plays the worst, because he will say something crazy. Now you take the fact that these guys in locker rooms have a party mentality, especially after a win, you are going to hear and see things that most people are not going to want to hear. Ms. Sainz went into the Jets PRIVATE lockeroom with the other reporters but she did not carry herself like other reporters (I will post a link to an interview she did which shows exactly how she was dressed).
I know, all of you feminists are ready to start screaming about equality in the workplace. She should be allowed to do anything a man can do, I agree completely, the problem with your liberal view is men are not allowed inside of a woman's locker room. We could never allow such a thing, because men are pigs. If they are such pigs, why would you allow women in an area where men are running around many times without any clothes on? The problem here is not what these men said (no, i do not think I agree with "catcalling" - whatever that is), but again, I ask what did you expect? There is a double standard and we are blaming these guys for what, acting the part of a jacked up jock who was in the security of his locker room?
The real question is this, where are all of the feminists who have fought for years for equality in the workplace? Why are you not outraged that Ms. Sainz has shown exactly why this should not be going on? Why are you not out there defending the players like you would if it were a LPGA golfer who was treated like this by a male reporter? Why are you saying she is just going to work to do here job? Why is it Michelle Tafoya, Suzy Kolber, even Erin Andrews have ever felt the need to go for an interview dresses this way? I am sorry, where do I get off with my sexist views and expecting some answers?
The truth of the matter is, Ms. Sainz is not the victim here, the players are. They can not control the fact that they are required to go to work. They can not control the fact that women are allowed in the locker room. They've been there before and they carry themselves professionally. They could not control the clothing of Ms. Sainz. She got up, knew she was going into a NFL locker room, and chose to dress in tight, form fitting, low cut clothes. She is the one who tweeted about being uncomfortable, and she is the one gaining popularity for it. If she was so uncomfortable, why did she not file a formal complaint, maybe they Jets organization was able to meet the asking price of Ms. Sainz.
I am begging anybody to try to defend Ms. Sainz. Please explain to me how I am wrong and how she is the true victim. Something tells me there will not be many responses, because there is nothing that can be said here but you are right, and people don't like saying that for some reason.
Here is the link where Ms. Sainz talks about the incindent and they will show you the choice of clothing for the Jets Locker Rooom.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/09/14/new-york-jets-reporter_n_716136.html
UNTIL NEXT TIME...
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
SOME THINGS I LEARNED…
SOME THINGS I LEARNED…
This was the weekend I have been looking forward to for 3 months. It was the weekend where I would find out what I thought I already knew. I did find out some things and I was right some, and I was wrong on some. Let me revisit this weekend and tell you what I learned.
Let’s start with Saturday…
South Carolina may be ready to finally contend in the East. What they were able to do to a Georgia team that many believed had a shot to challenge Florida in the East was embarrassing. I realize the score stayed close, but Georgia was sloppy, could not tackle and just offered a poor showing. Steve Spurrier looks like he may have found a star in Marcus Lattimore.
The ACC was promised to be better this year. In fact someone posted on this very blog that they were going to be the 2nd best conference in College Football this year, they aren’t even close. In fact, this may be the worst conference in College Football. Georgia Tech, Miami, and Florida State (boy was I wrong on this team) all lost this past weekend. However, none of these teams had the worst weekend in the ACC, that honor goes to Virginia Tech who managed to lose at home to FBS powerhouse James Madison. This conference is TERRIBLE and I feel the need to apologize to all of you for telling you they were going to be good.
The best (or worst depending on which side you are on) of the ACC’s weekend is the Boise State for a BCS Title Game discussion was ruined by Va Tech’s loss to James Madison. How can a team that struggled to win on a “neutral” site (I know it was practically a home game) claim a quality win if that same “guality” team loses to an FBS school in an actual home field. Oh well Boise State, looks like Va Tech really did get the last laugh.
How can I not mention Michigan? Rich Rod has finally found his guy to run his system and he’s doing a great job at it. Denard Robinson has played himself into the Heisman discussion no matter what criteria he uses. He is both the most outstanding and the most valuable player on a team that has not lost yet. What he has done in the 1st 2 weeks has people talking Heisman, but there’s another conversation that people need to start having…CAN MICHIGAN WIN THE BIG 10? If this kid keeps playing like this yes they can. I know it is early but an athlete who can take over a game like this kid can will keep his team close and give them a punchers chance in every game they are in. Of course Robinson and the Wolverines still have Ohio State, Iowa, and Wisconsin in the Big 10, so let’s don’t start that talk to early, but this team will only get better and should be fun to watch the rest of the year.
Alabama, Ohio State, and Oklahoma all took care of business and easily showed they are the 3 best teams in the country. Alabama did what they should do at home, at night, against a freshman qb with a young team, they dominated. Ohio State made Miami look like a school who had no business being on the field with them. Terrelle Pryor looked great and did a good job taking what the Miami defense gave him. He ran when he needed to , but did a great job keeping his head up and looking for an open receiver, this is what he has been doing since about half way through last season and that is what makes this team so dangerous. Oklahoma destroyed my ACC pick in FSU and the surprising part was how bad the FSU offense looked. Landry Jones displayed the form that had him on my preseason Heisman Watch. This team looks like they are every bit as good as I predicted them to be when I said they would be 2rd in the polls by the time that the BCS Games arrive.
If I had a vote in the top 25, I my vote would be look like this: Alabama (they have to be beat to drop the team has it all returning players and a tough schedule), Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oregon, and Boise State. I look forward to this upcoming week and am looking even more forward to seeing Bama get its 1st real test in a couple of weeks against Arkansas.
Heisman Watch: Denard Robinson, Terrelle Pryor, Landry Jones, Kellen Moore.
SUNDAY:
I will start with the most impressive thing I saw on Sunday and that was how the New England defense shut down a very high powered Cincinnati Bengals offense. Before you start screaming homer, let me explain, the impressive part about that game was not the way the offense looked (although it was great to see Welker looking like his old self). The big question mark for this team was it’s defense, more specifically it’s secondary and the Bengals have more than enough weapons to challenge them and gave them a great chance to show how this season may look. The defense played great as they only gave up 3 points in the 1st half. I know people will say Palmer threw for 345 and a couple of td’s, however by the time he started scoring the game was over and everyone knew that. Look forward to seeing the offensive line get a real test against a very good Jets defense on Sunday.
Other than that there were not very many surprises from this past Sunday. The Falcons looked nothing like a team who I picked to win the South and be a # 2 seed in the playoffs, but not too concerned. I was surprised the Raiders did not perform better against the Titans (although as I have had to tell everyone since I made playoffs picks last week, the Titans are going to be a good team this year). The Cowboys looked terrible on Sunday night, but they have looked terrible the entire off season. This team had better find a way to come together quick or else they will miss the playoffs. The Giants looked really good and they are not going away. I am looking forward to what should be a good game (and a nightmare in terms of matchups) with the Colts.
As for those Colts, let me offer some thoughts on this game and the preseason prediction that they will not make the playoffs. I have taken so much heat for excluding the Colts from the playoffs in my preseason projections, and everyone I know has claimed that I am a homer and am picking against them to get a reaction. I did not lay out all of my reasons for why I think they would miss the playoffs, because I choose to write about the positive things and the teams who would be in. However, as I told everyone since Thursday, the defense is bad, especially against the run (if Arian Foster goes over 200 yards, what will MJD and Chris Johnson do?), the argument against this is Bob Sanders is coming back. My argument against that is the problem with Bob Sanders is he’s coming back every year (he did get injured again on Sunday and not sure when he’ll be back). I also, question the receiving corps. I do not trust Collie (may have been wrong on that one, but we will wait to see), Garcon (I think he had 4 drops and after a couple of them Manning seemed to be visibly upset), Wayne (if he plays he’s solid, but he always seems to have nagging injuries that slow him down – last year he only had more the 5 catches once after week 12 last year and he his high in yards was 48 during that time). I know people are talking about Anthony Gonzalez but he can only be productive if he is healthy and even then, we don’t know how productive he can be because he’s never had more than 57 catches in the Colts pass happy system. He missed all of last season with an injury (he also left Sunday’s game with a high ankle sprain and will not play this week) so I can not count on him to be a contributor. The defense looked bad, the offense looked bad until the game was out of reach, watching a large chunk of that game I never really got the feeling the Colts were going to be able to win. I know it is 1 game, but the problem is the holes that were shown in that game are real, and the team that beat you is at an all time high for the franchise (they beat the mighty Colts, they are coming off of a winning season for the 1st time in franchise history, people seem to think they are good enough to win this year, they are dangerous). I am worried for the Colts, they are in trouble (of course that means they probably will not lose again this year and win a Super Bowl, that’s just how my picks are going).
There you have it, my thoughts on the weekend, what do you think?
This was the weekend I have been looking forward to for 3 months. It was the weekend where I would find out what I thought I already knew. I did find out some things and I was right some, and I was wrong on some. Let me revisit this weekend and tell you what I learned.
Let’s start with Saturday…
South Carolina may be ready to finally contend in the East. What they were able to do to a Georgia team that many believed had a shot to challenge Florida in the East was embarrassing. I realize the score stayed close, but Georgia was sloppy, could not tackle and just offered a poor showing. Steve Spurrier looks like he may have found a star in Marcus Lattimore.
The ACC was promised to be better this year. In fact someone posted on this very blog that they were going to be the 2nd best conference in College Football this year, they aren’t even close. In fact, this may be the worst conference in College Football. Georgia Tech, Miami, and Florida State (boy was I wrong on this team) all lost this past weekend. However, none of these teams had the worst weekend in the ACC, that honor goes to Virginia Tech who managed to lose at home to FBS powerhouse James Madison. This conference is TERRIBLE and I feel the need to apologize to all of you for telling you they were going to be good.
The best (or worst depending on which side you are on) of the ACC’s weekend is the Boise State for a BCS Title Game discussion was ruined by Va Tech’s loss to James Madison. How can a team that struggled to win on a “neutral” site (I know it was practically a home game) claim a quality win if that same “guality” team loses to an FBS school in an actual home field. Oh well Boise State, looks like Va Tech really did get the last laugh.
How can I not mention Michigan? Rich Rod has finally found his guy to run his system and he’s doing a great job at it. Denard Robinson has played himself into the Heisman discussion no matter what criteria he uses. He is both the most outstanding and the most valuable player on a team that has not lost yet. What he has done in the 1st 2 weeks has people talking Heisman, but there’s another conversation that people need to start having…CAN MICHIGAN WIN THE BIG 10? If this kid keeps playing like this yes they can. I know it is early but an athlete who can take over a game like this kid can will keep his team close and give them a punchers chance in every game they are in. Of course Robinson and the Wolverines still have Ohio State, Iowa, and Wisconsin in the Big 10, so let’s don’t start that talk to early, but this team will only get better and should be fun to watch the rest of the year.
Alabama, Ohio State, and Oklahoma all took care of business and easily showed they are the 3 best teams in the country. Alabama did what they should do at home, at night, against a freshman qb with a young team, they dominated. Ohio State made Miami look like a school who had no business being on the field with them. Terrelle Pryor looked great and did a good job taking what the Miami defense gave him. He ran when he needed to , but did a great job keeping his head up and looking for an open receiver, this is what he has been doing since about half way through last season and that is what makes this team so dangerous. Oklahoma destroyed my ACC pick in FSU and the surprising part was how bad the FSU offense looked. Landry Jones displayed the form that had him on my preseason Heisman Watch. This team looks like they are every bit as good as I predicted them to be when I said they would be 2rd in the polls by the time that the BCS Games arrive.
If I had a vote in the top 25, I my vote would be look like this: Alabama (they have to be beat to drop the team has it all returning players and a tough schedule), Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oregon, and Boise State. I look forward to this upcoming week and am looking even more forward to seeing Bama get its 1st real test in a couple of weeks against Arkansas.
Heisman Watch: Denard Robinson, Terrelle Pryor, Landry Jones, Kellen Moore.
SUNDAY:
I will start with the most impressive thing I saw on Sunday and that was how the New England defense shut down a very high powered Cincinnati Bengals offense. Before you start screaming homer, let me explain, the impressive part about that game was not the way the offense looked (although it was great to see Welker looking like his old self). The big question mark for this team was it’s defense, more specifically it’s secondary and the Bengals have more than enough weapons to challenge them and gave them a great chance to show how this season may look. The defense played great as they only gave up 3 points in the 1st half. I know people will say Palmer threw for 345 and a couple of td’s, however by the time he started scoring the game was over and everyone knew that. Look forward to seeing the offensive line get a real test against a very good Jets defense on Sunday.
Other than that there were not very many surprises from this past Sunday. The Falcons looked nothing like a team who I picked to win the South and be a # 2 seed in the playoffs, but not too concerned. I was surprised the Raiders did not perform better against the Titans (although as I have had to tell everyone since I made playoffs picks last week, the Titans are going to be a good team this year). The Cowboys looked terrible on Sunday night, but they have looked terrible the entire off season. This team had better find a way to come together quick or else they will miss the playoffs. The Giants looked really good and they are not going away. I am looking forward to what should be a good game (and a nightmare in terms of matchups) with the Colts.
As for those Colts, let me offer some thoughts on this game and the preseason prediction that they will not make the playoffs. I have taken so much heat for excluding the Colts from the playoffs in my preseason projections, and everyone I know has claimed that I am a homer and am picking against them to get a reaction. I did not lay out all of my reasons for why I think they would miss the playoffs, because I choose to write about the positive things and the teams who would be in. However, as I told everyone since Thursday, the defense is bad, especially against the run (if Arian Foster goes over 200 yards, what will MJD and Chris Johnson do?), the argument against this is Bob Sanders is coming back. My argument against that is the problem with Bob Sanders is he’s coming back every year (he did get injured again on Sunday and not sure when he’ll be back). I also, question the receiving corps. I do not trust Collie (may have been wrong on that one, but we will wait to see), Garcon (I think he had 4 drops and after a couple of them Manning seemed to be visibly upset), Wayne (if he plays he’s solid, but he always seems to have nagging injuries that slow him down – last year he only had more the 5 catches once after week 12 last year and he his high in yards was 48 during that time). I know people are talking about Anthony Gonzalez but he can only be productive if he is healthy and even then, we don’t know how productive he can be because he’s never had more than 57 catches in the Colts pass happy system. He missed all of last season with an injury (he also left Sunday’s game with a high ankle sprain and will not play this week) so I can not count on him to be a contributor. The defense looked bad, the offense looked bad until the game was out of reach, watching a large chunk of that game I never really got the feeling the Colts were going to be able to win. I know it is 1 game, but the problem is the holes that were shown in that game are real, and the team that beat you is at an all time high for the franchise (they beat the mighty Colts, they are coming off of a winning season for the 1st time in franchise history, people seem to think they are good enough to win this year, they are dangerous). I am worried for the Colts, they are in trouble (of course that means they probably will not lose again this year and win a Super Bowl, that’s just how my picks are going).
There you have it, my thoughts on the weekend, what do you think?
Friday, September 10, 2010
IT'S BETTER THAN CHRISTMAS...
IT'S BETTER THAN CHRISTMAS...
I loved Christmas as a child. There was always exctement as I saw the gifts mount under the tree as the weeks got closer. With every new gft that was placed under the tree, the anticipation grew. Then after what seemed like forever, it was Christmas Eve. Just one more day until the day that I had looked forward to since October 13th(my birthday, i'll send you my address so you can send gifts).
Now, I am an adult. I face real responsibilities and I have to balance visiting family, how much I can spend, I have to put the toys together, etc so even though I still enjoy Christmas, it is not the same. However, tomorrow Christmas comes in September. I have had the same child like anticipation looking forward to the game. This weekend has seemed like it would never come but now it is here. So many games, and I am going to give you some predictions for the major games...
Georgia @ South Carolina
This game is always a great ball game that is won in the 4th quarter. It nrmally does not carry as much national importance but with the struggles at Florida last weekend, the winner of this game may be able to contend for the SEC East. UGA will be without their best player, AJ Green. I don't think it matters. Look for a heavy dose of the ground game as UGA will not want to put too much pressure on the freshman qb. Look for Georgia to have a conservative game plan, run the ball, play good defense, and let Blair Walsh win it with a late field goal.
Michigan @ Notre Dame
Both teams looked good in week 1. A week 1 loss is normally not a big deal but it would have been major for both of these schools. I like Michigan on the road to pull the upset. Denard Robinson has more expierence in Rich Rod's offense and I do not believe Notre Dame has the athletes to limit his big play ability. Michigan wins a good ball game.
South Florida @ Florida
Last week was terrible for Florida. This weekend will not be much better. John Brantley is a very talented qb, but I do not know if he is the guy to run this offense. Florida lacks a running game and I don't care who you are, being one dimensional is a bad thing. Skip Holtz teams play good defense and usually does not turn the ball over, so that is bad for Florida. Look for this game to be close, I would not be totally surprised if South Florida wins (of course this means Florida will win by 4 touchdowns).
THE BIG 3:
Florida State @ Oklahoma
Oklahoma has a 31 game home winning streak. FSU is bad, they play in the ACC and they are no good. I know what you are all saying. I like the Noles and here is why. They have the best qb in the country in Christian Ponder and Oklahoma has a bad secondary. Bob Stoops and co will try to mix coverages all day as he tries blitzing, playing zone, and may even try to play 13 guys on defense to slow the FSU offense. The problem for the Sooners is that FSU has one of the best OL's in the country and Ponder has enough mobility and does a god enough job avoiding pressure and makes great decisions. I think it will be fairly close, but in the end, FSU has too much speed on offense and the defense will play good enough to slow DeMarco Murray and pull the upset and start what will be a very memorable season for Noles fans.
Penn State @ Alabama
This is going to be a great game in terms of 2 proud programs who have enjoyed success over the years. Then the game will start and the Tde will Roll. I know that they will not have Mark Ingram, but they will have Richardson, McElroy, and Julio Jones. A night game on the road in Tuscaloosa is something that a freshman qb should never have to do. Tide wins by 2 touchdowns.
Miami @ Ohio State
This is the game of the day. You have 2 Heisman Trophy candidates in Terrell Pryor and Jacory Harris. You have an established program with one that is on the way back. You have 2 teams with BCS Championship dreams from under rated conferences. Ohio State has a history of not matching up with teams who can spread you out and run you up and down the field and that is what Miami will try to do. Ohio State looks to me like a miror image of this Miami team. loads of fast athletes at the skill positions, a talented and athletic quarterback, but hey have 2 things the Canes d o not. The Buckeyes have a solid veteran offensive line who has been tested which Miami has not done yet, and they have the benefit of it being in Columbus. This game means more to Miami, because they need it to prove to America that they are back. I like Harris to have a good game and keep it close, but in the end, Ohio State will win the best game of the weekend.
GA Tech hammers Kansas, Oregon rolls Tennessee, and USC destroys Virginia.
What do you think...
UNTIL NEXT TIME...
I loved Christmas as a child. There was always exctement as I saw the gifts mount under the tree as the weeks got closer. With every new gft that was placed under the tree, the anticipation grew. Then after what seemed like forever, it was Christmas Eve. Just one more day until the day that I had looked forward to since October 13th(my birthday, i'll send you my address so you can send gifts).
Now, I am an adult. I face real responsibilities and I have to balance visiting family, how much I can spend, I have to put the toys together, etc so even though I still enjoy Christmas, it is not the same. However, tomorrow Christmas comes in September. I have had the same child like anticipation looking forward to the game. This weekend has seemed like it would never come but now it is here. So many games, and I am going to give you some predictions for the major games...
Georgia @ South Carolina
This game is always a great ball game that is won in the 4th quarter. It nrmally does not carry as much national importance but with the struggles at Florida last weekend, the winner of this game may be able to contend for the SEC East. UGA will be without their best player, AJ Green. I don't think it matters. Look for a heavy dose of the ground game as UGA will not want to put too much pressure on the freshman qb. Look for Georgia to have a conservative game plan, run the ball, play good defense, and let Blair Walsh win it with a late field goal.
Michigan @ Notre Dame
Both teams looked good in week 1. A week 1 loss is normally not a big deal but it would have been major for both of these schools. I like Michigan on the road to pull the upset. Denard Robinson has more expierence in Rich Rod's offense and I do not believe Notre Dame has the athletes to limit his big play ability. Michigan wins a good ball game.
South Florida @ Florida
Last week was terrible for Florida. This weekend will not be much better. John Brantley is a very talented qb, but I do not know if he is the guy to run this offense. Florida lacks a running game and I don't care who you are, being one dimensional is a bad thing. Skip Holtz teams play good defense and usually does not turn the ball over, so that is bad for Florida. Look for this game to be close, I would not be totally surprised if South Florida wins (of course this means Florida will win by 4 touchdowns).
THE BIG 3:
Florida State @ Oklahoma
Oklahoma has a 31 game home winning streak. FSU is bad, they play in the ACC and they are no good. I know what you are all saying. I like the Noles and here is why. They have the best qb in the country in Christian Ponder and Oklahoma has a bad secondary. Bob Stoops and co will try to mix coverages all day as he tries blitzing, playing zone, and may even try to play 13 guys on defense to slow the FSU offense. The problem for the Sooners is that FSU has one of the best OL's in the country and Ponder has enough mobility and does a god enough job avoiding pressure and makes great decisions. I think it will be fairly close, but in the end, FSU has too much speed on offense and the defense will play good enough to slow DeMarco Murray and pull the upset and start what will be a very memorable season for Noles fans.
Penn State @ Alabama
This is going to be a great game in terms of 2 proud programs who have enjoyed success over the years. Then the game will start and the Tde will Roll. I know that they will not have Mark Ingram, but they will have Richardson, McElroy, and Julio Jones. A night game on the road in Tuscaloosa is something that a freshman qb should never have to do. Tide wins by 2 touchdowns.
Miami @ Ohio State
This is the game of the day. You have 2 Heisman Trophy candidates in Terrell Pryor and Jacory Harris. You have an established program with one that is on the way back. You have 2 teams with BCS Championship dreams from under rated conferences. Ohio State has a history of not matching up with teams who can spread you out and run you up and down the field and that is what Miami will try to do. Ohio State looks to me like a miror image of this Miami team. loads of fast athletes at the skill positions, a talented and athletic quarterback, but hey have 2 things the Canes d o not. The Buckeyes have a solid veteran offensive line who has been tested which Miami has not done yet, and they have the benefit of it being in Columbus. This game means more to Miami, because they need it to prove to America that they are back. I like Harris to have a good game and keep it close, but in the end, Ohio State will win the best game of the weekend.
GA Tech hammers Kansas, Oregon rolls Tennessee, and USC destroys Virginia.
What do you think...
UNTIL NEXT TIME...
Thursday, September 9, 2010
2010 NFL PICKS...
THE PICKS ARE IN…
Tonight begins the crazy and unpredictable NFL season. I am extremely excited to see this match up tonight as the Vikings are heading back to New Orleans. I do like the Vikings in this game, I don’t think they will get as much pressure on Favre and that defense will not create the turnovers from a year ago. That being said let me give you my predictions for the upcoming season…
NFC South: ATLANTA FALCONS
Since I do not trust the Saints defense to produce like it did last year, there is no way I can trust them to be as good as they were last year. Darren Sharper will be missed for the 1st 6 games of the season and that leaves a big void on and off the field. I like the addidtion of Sean Weatherspoon for the Falcons. If Ryan, Turner, and co stay healthy, there is no reason to think they will not win the division. Order of Finish: Falcons, Saints, Panthers, Bucs
NFC North: Green Bay Packers
Aaron Rodgers became the quarterback the Packers thought he would be when they finally decided to tell Favre he had to stop stringing them along. They decided it was time to figure out what they had and they have the best young quarterback in the game. Hopefully the offensive line will do a better job keeping him standing up. Ryan Grant needs to provide some security running the ball, but this team will go as far as Aaron Rodgers can throw them. They have a good but underrated and this may be the year they find themselves back in the Super Bowl. Order of Finish: Packers, Vikings, Lions, Bears
NFC West: San Fransico 49ers
In the worst division in football, the niners have the most talent and they may be dangerous in the playoffs. They are exactly the type of team who can win in the playoffs, a good running team, a top 5 defense and a qb who seems to be comfortable in his offense and will not turn the ball over a lot. Plus, the other 3 teams are being led by Sam Bradford (a rookie), Matt Hasselbeck (won’t play all season), and Derek Anderson (should never play again). Order of Finish: 49ers, Seahawks, Cardinals, Rams
NFC East: New York Giants
This may be the best division in the NFC. It could also be one of the worst divisions in the NFC. The Giants must run the ball and I think Ahmad Bradshaw will do that. They also must stay healthy they were injured more than any team in the NFC last season and that cost them a chance to make the playoffs. They did a nice job addressing the holes at safety with the additions of Antrelle Rolle and Deon Grant. Order of Finish: Giants, Cowboys, Eagles, Redskins
NFC Wild Card Teams: Minnesota Vikings and Dallas Cowboys
The Vikings have one of the best defenses in the league and Brett Favre will play well. Adrian Peterson is a beast at running back and they get the Bears and Lions (who will be much better this year but are still a year away). The stories will be great as we look to see if Favre can lead his team to the Super Bowl in his last season. The Cowboys will try to be the 1st team in History to play in the Super Bowl when it is played at their home field. It will not happen, but it will be a fun story line.
AFC South: Houston Texans
This is the 1st real shocker of my playoff picks, the COLTS WILL NOT WIN THE DIVISION. If the Texans are able to get past the Colts (they find a way to lose to them every year it seems). The Texans look to finally have the total package with Arain Foster, Andre Johnson, Owen Daniels, & Matt Schaub. The defense is outstanding with Mario Williams, and Brian Cushing leading a young aggressive defense. They find a way to overcome the Colts this year and they are a legit Super Bowl team. Order of Finish: Texans, Colts, Titans, Jaguars
AFC North: Cincinnati Bengals
This team has a ton of talent and even more egos. If they do not kill each other, they will win the division. I feel terrible for Carson Palmer having to listen to all of the talking between Ochocinco, T.O., and Cedric Benson. They did add some very nice pieces in the draft in Jordan Shipley (think Wes Welker in New England) and Jermaine Gresham. The defense has been getting better for years and should be good again this year. This will be a great 3 way battle between the Ravens and Steelers as well. Order of Finish: Bengals, Ravens, Steelers, Browns
AFC West: San Diego Chargers
Again, the West is just a bad division. The Raiders had a GREAT off season, better than any team in football. I almost picked them because I do not know how much I trust Ryan Matthews running the ball and Philip Rivers has no help at receiver. Unfortunately, I am not brave enough to pick them. Order of finish: Chargers, Raider, Broncos, Chiefs
AFC East: New England Patriots
I know the Jets have become America’s team, but I am not getting it. They brought in a bunch of older guys who skills have diminished (LaDanian Tomlinson & Jason Taylor) and released all of the leadership from last year (Thomas Jones & Alan Faneca). Yes, they have some good players and yes they made the AFC Title game last year, but there are several reasons to believe the Pats will be better and the Jets will be the same. Last year the Jets only got in the playoffs because the Colts sat their players in week 16. Brady is a year healthier, he has threats at tight end. There is no team in football who utilizes the tight end better than the Pats. That is the running game. Aaron Hernandez may challenge for rookie of the year. The young defense is a year more expierenced. This is the most dangerous that the Pats have been in the last 5 or 6 years. Order of Finish: Patriots, Dolphins, Jets, Bills
AFC Wild Card Teams: Baltimore Ravens and Miami Dolphins.
PLAYOFFS:
Vikings (6) @ Giants (3) = Vikings
Cowboys (5) @ 49ers (4) = Cowboys
Dolphins (6) @ Texans (3) = Texans
Ravens (5) @ Chargers (4) = Ravens
Vikings (6) @ Packers (1)= Packers
Cowboys (5) @ Falcons (2)= Falcons
Ravens (5) @ Bengals (1)= Ravens
Texans (3) @ Patriots (2)= Patriots
Championship Games:
Falcons (2) @ Packers (1)= Packers
Ravens (5) @ Patriots (2)= Patriots
Super Bowl:
Packers v. Patriots
SUPER BOWL CHAMPIONS:
New England Patriots
Tonight begins the crazy and unpredictable NFL season. I am extremely excited to see this match up tonight as the Vikings are heading back to New Orleans. I do like the Vikings in this game, I don’t think they will get as much pressure on Favre and that defense will not create the turnovers from a year ago. That being said let me give you my predictions for the upcoming season…
NFC South: ATLANTA FALCONS
Since I do not trust the Saints defense to produce like it did last year, there is no way I can trust them to be as good as they were last year. Darren Sharper will be missed for the 1st 6 games of the season and that leaves a big void on and off the field. I like the addidtion of Sean Weatherspoon for the Falcons. If Ryan, Turner, and co stay healthy, there is no reason to think they will not win the division. Order of Finish: Falcons, Saints, Panthers, Bucs
NFC North: Green Bay Packers
Aaron Rodgers became the quarterback the Packers thought he would be when they finally decided to tell Favre he had to stop stringing them along. They decided it was time to figure out what they had and they have the best young quarterback in the game. Hopefully the offensive line will do a better job keeping him standing up. Ryan Grant needs to provide some security running the ball, but this team will go as far as Aaron Rodgers can throw them. They have a good but underrated and this may be the year they find themselves back in the Super Bowl. Order of Finish: Packers, Vikings, Lions, Bears
NFC West: San Fransico 49ers
In the worst division in football, the niners have the most talent and they may be dangerous in the playoffs. They are exactly the type of team who can win in the playoffs, a good running team, a top 5 defense and a qb who seems to be comfortable in his offense and will not turn the ball over a lot. Plus, the other 3 teams are being led by Sam Bradford (a rookie), Matt Hasselbeck (won’t play all season), and Derek Anderson (should never play again). Order of Finish: 49ers, Seahawks, Cardinals, Rams
NFC East: New York Giants
This may be the best division in the NFC. It could also be one of the worst divisions in the NFC. The Giants must run the ball and I think Ahmad Bradshaw will do that. They also must stay healthy they were injured more than any team in the NFC last season and that cost them a chance to make the playoffs. They did a nice job addressing the holes at safety with the additions of Antrelle Rolle and Deon Grant. Order of Finish: Giants, Cowboys, Eagles, Redskins
NFC Wild Card Teams: Minnesota Vikings and Dallas Cowboys
The Vikings have one of the best defenses in the league and Brett Favre will play well. Adrian Peterson is a beast at running back and they get the Bears and Lions (who will be much better this year but are still a year away). The stories will be great as we look to see if Favre can lead his team to the Super Bowl in his last season. The Cowboys will try to be the 1st team in History to play in the Super Bowl when it is played at their home field. It will not happen, but it will be a fun story line.
AFC South: Houston Texans
This is the 1st real shocker of my playoff picks, the COLTS WILL NOT WIN THE DIVISION. If the Texans are able to get past the Colts (they find a way to lose to them every year it seems). The Texans look to finally have the total package with Arain Foster, Andre Johnson, Owen Daniels, & Matt Schaub. The defense is outstanding with Mario Williams, and Brian Cushing leading a young aggressive defense. They find a way to overcome the Colts this year and they are a legit Super Bowl team. Order of Finish: Texans, Colts, Titans, Jaguars
AFC North: Cincinnati Bengals
This team has a ton of talent and even more egos. If they do not kill each other, they will win the division. I feel terrible for Carson Palmer having to listen to all of the talking between Ochocinco, T.O., and Cedric Benson. They did add some very nice pieces in the draft in Jordan Shipley (think Wes Welker in New England) and Jermaine Gresham. The defense has been getting better for years and should be good again this year. This will be a great 3 way battle between the Ravens and Steelers as well. Order of Finish: Bengals, Ravens, Steelers, Browns
AFC West: San Diego Chargers
Again, the West is just a bad division. The Raiders had a GREAT off season, better than any team in football. I almost picked them because I do not know how much I trust Ryan Matthews running the ball and Philip Rivers has no help at receiver. Unfortunately, I am not brave enough to pick them. Order of finish: Chargers, Raider, Broncos, Chiefs
AFC East: New England Patriots
I know the Jets have become America’s team, but I am not getting it. They brought in a bunch of older guys who skills have diminished (LaDanian Tomlinson & Jason Taylor) and released all of the leadership from last year (Thomas Jones & Alan Faneca). Yes, they have some good players and yes they made the AFC Title game last year, but there are several reasons to believe the Pats will be better and the Jets will be the same. Last year the Jets only got in the playoffs because the Colts sat their players in week 16. Brady is a year healthier, he has threats at tight end. There is no team in football who utilizes the tight end better than the Pats. That is the running game. Aaron Hernandez may challenge for rookie of the year. The young defense is a year more expierenced. This is the most dangerous that the Pats have been in the last 5 or 6 years. Order of Finish: Patriots, Dolphins, Jets, Bills
AFC Wild Card Teams: Baltimore Ravens and Miami Dolphins.
PLAYOFFS:
Vikings (6) @ Giants (3) = Vikings
Cowboys (5) @ 49ers (4) = Cowboys
Dolphins (6) @ Texans (3) = Texans
Ravens (5) @ Chargers (4) = Ravens
Vikings (6) @ Packers (1)= Packers
Cowboys (5) @ Falcons (2)= Falcons
Ravens (5) @ Bengals (1)= Ravens
Texans (3) @ Patriots (2)= Patriots
Championship Games:
Falcons (2) @ Packers (1)= Packers
Ravens (5) @ Patriots (2)= Patriots
Super Bowl:
Packers v. Patriots
SUPER BOWL CHAMPIONS:
New England Patriots
Saturday, September 4, 2010
BCS Matchups...
BCS Matchups…
The college football season has finally started. I love this time of year, so many things to look forward to. Before I give you my end of the year BCS math ups, let me give you my thoughts on the afternoon slate…
UConn at Michigan
They are rededicating the Big House and there is nobody in the country that has more information than Rich Rodriguez and the Wolverines. He has not been able to get settled at quarterback even though he has been in Michigan for 3 years now. I believe that UConn will play solid defense and control the clock and pull out a close one. Let the hatful web sites begin now.
UCLA @ Kansas State
I think UCLA is going to be very good and they begin showing the world that tonight. They are breaking in a new offense but I expect Norm Chow will have the Bruins ready to go. Look for UCLA to win the game.
Washington @ BYU
America’s sweetheart Jake Locker will have some national attention for one of the few times this season. I expect him to play really well. Steve Sarkisian has changed the culture in Washington and those kids expect to win and tonight they should be able to accomplish that goal. Look for the Locker for Heisman hype to really begin tonight.
LSU v. North Carolina
This game had so much potential prior to all of the suspensions on the UNC side. This game looked like it would be close and now everyone is expecting a blow out. I do not see that happening, I think the Tar Heels will keep it close for a couple of quarters and play extremely well. In the end, there is just too much depth for LSU and I expect them to win a close one.
Now on to the BCS Games…
Rose Bowl:
Iowa (At – Large) v. Oregon (Pac 10)
This will be another Big 10 attempt to slow down the spread attack of Oregon. It worked well for Ohio State last year. Iowa will be coming into this game with 1 loss to Ohio State (who’s playing for the National Championship). Oregon gets here because USC can’t. The Trojans will have the best record, but the Ducks advance to Pasadena after taking care of business against Oregon State.
Orange Bowl:
FSU (ACC) v. Cincinnati (Big East)
This game will be a HUGE mismatch. FSU will return to form of the 90’s under new coach Jimbo Fisher. They offense will be as good as any in the country and the only reason they are this low is because I am not sure if they can successfully make the trip to Miami on October 9. Cincinnati is going to be good and they are going to rally together after the loss of Brian Kelly, however there is a difference between the Big East and the ACC. The ACC is back and they are going to be the 2nd best team in the country (of course, I have said this for the last couple of years).
Sugar Bowl:
Georgia (At – Large) v. Virginia Tech (At – Large)
This will be a good game between 2 teams who got here by default. Neither of these teams will win their division in their conference. Georgia is going to get beaten out by Florida and Va Tech will lose the match up in November with Miami. However, thanks to Alabama and Florida State, these two teams play in the BCS.
Fiesta Bowl:
Oklahoma (Big 12) v. TCU (At – Large)
Oklahoma is going to be very good and will probably be ranked 3rd by this point. I expect them to be on the outside looking in. Unfortunately for them, they will have a ton of pressure as they going back to Arizona to face a non BCS school that will have nothing to lose and everything to gain at the expense of the Sooners. TCU you be complaining again as they could be the only undefeated team in the country and yet they still are not playing in the title game…oh well, they should play a tougher schedule.
BCS Title Game:
Ohio State (Big 10) v. Alabama (SEC)
This game will be a great game to watch. The classic look of both uniforms, the traditional coaching styles of both coaches, this game could be fun if Pryor is as good as I expect him to be. Alabama will not get through the SEC unbeaten but the will find a way to the Title game. Pryor, I expect, will be coming off of a Heisman Trophy winning season. He will lead the Buckeyes to an undefeated Big 10 schedule and will look to shake off the reputation of Ohio State can not hang with the big boys down south. He will succeed. Ohio State will beat Alabama and win the National Championship.
There you have it; every BCS game has been predicted. What do you think? What teams am I wrong about? This is a time where I really need feedback, tell me what you think.
UNTIL NEXT TIME…
The college football season has finally started. I love this time of year, so many things to look forward to. Before I give you my end of the year BCS math ups, let me give you my thoughts on the afternoon slate…
UConn at Michigan
They are rededicating the Big House and there is nobody in the country that has more information than Rich Rodriguez and the Wolverines. He has not been able to get settled at quarterback even though he has been in Michigan for 3 years now. I believe that UConn will play solid defense and control the clock and pull out a close one. Let the hatful web sites begin now.
UCLA @ Kansas State
I think UCLA is going to be very good and they begin showing the world that tonight. They are breaking in a new offense but I expect Norm Chow will have the Bruins ready to go. Look for UCLA to win the game.
Washington @ BYU
America’s sweetheart Jake Locker will have some national attention for one of the few times this season. I expect him to play really well. Steve Sarkisian has changed the culture in Washington and those kids expect to win and tonight they should be able to accomplish that goal. Look for the Locker for Heisman hype to really begin tonight.
LSU v. North Carolina
This game had so much potential prior to all of the suspensions on the UNC side. This game looked like it would be close and now everyone is expecting a blow out. I do not see that happening, I think the Tar Heels will keep it close for a couple of quarters and play extremely well. In the end, there is just too much depth for LSU and I expect them to win a close one.
Now on to the BCS Games…
Rose Bowl:
Iowa (At – Large) v. Oregon (Pac 10)
This will be another Big 10 attempt to slow down the spread attack of Oregon. It worked well for Ohio State last year. Iowa will be coming into this game with 1 loss to Ohio State (who’s playing for the National Championship). Oregon gets here because USC can’t. The Trojans will have the best record, but the Ducks advance to Pasadena after taking care of business against Oregon State.
Orange Bowl:
FSU (ACC) v. Cincinnati (Big East)
This game will be a HUGE mismatch. FSU will return to form of the 90’s under new coach Jimbo Fisher. They offense will be as good as any in the country and the only reason they are this low is because I am not sure if they can successfully make the trip to Miami on October 9. Cincinnati is going to be good and they are going to rally together after the loss of Brian Kelly, however there is a difference between the Big East and the ACC. The ACC is back and they are going to be the 2nd best team in the country (of course, I have said this for the last couple of years).
Sugar Bowl:
Georgia (At – Large) v. Virginia Tech (At – Large)
This will be a good game between 2 teams who got here by default. Neither of these teams will win their division in their conference. Georgia is going to get beaten out by Florida and Va Tech will lose the match up in November with Miami. However, thanks to Alabama and Florida State, these two teams play in the BCS.
Fiesta Bowl:
Oklahoma (Big 12) v. TCU (At – Large)
Oklahoma is going to be very good and will probably be ranked 3rd by this point. I expect them to be on the outside looking in. Unfortunately for them, they will have a ton of pressure as they going back to Arizona to face a non BCS school that will have nothing to lose and everything to gain at the expense of the Sooners. TCU you be complaining again as they could be the only undefeated team in the country and yet they still are not playing in the title game…oh well, they should play a tougher schedule.
BCS Title Game:
Ohio State (Big 10) v. Alabama (SEC)
This game will be a great game to watch. The classic look of both uniforms, the traditional coaching styles of both coaches, this game could be fun if Pryor is as good as I expect him to be. Alabama will not get through the SEC unbeaten but the will find a way to the Title game. Pryor, I expect, will be coming off of a Heisman Trophy winning season. He will lead the Buckeyes to an undefeated Big 10 schedule and will look to shake off the reputation of Ohio State can not hang with the big boys down south. He will succeed. Ohio State will beat Alabama and win the National Championship.
There you have it; every BCS game has been predicted. What do you think? What teams am I wrong about? This is a time where I really need feedback, tell me what you think.
UNTIL NEXT TIME…
THE 2010 HEISMAN TROPHY WINNER IS…
THE 2010 HEISMAN TROPHY WINNER IS…
The college football season is officially under way. It started on Thursday night with a handful of games and a handful of solid performances. However, before we can get to the National Championship, there is a certain award that has to be given out in New York on the 2nd Saturday in December, The Heisman Trophy.
Now when looking at potential Heisman candidates, there are a couple of things that must be considered. First, the official description of the Heisman Trophy is “College Football’s most outstanding player”. Therefore, anyone who has a great year has a chance at winning the award. That would open the door for guys like Case Keenum and Taylor Potts, but there is no way either of those guys have a chance at winning the award. Since 2000, the Heisman Trophy winner has played in the National Championship game (the only exception to the rule is Tim Tebow in 2007), therefore, we know that not only do you have to put up good numbers, but you also have to be on a good team.
Now that we know what you have to do to win the award, let me give you 3 people from everyone’s list who WILL NOT win the Heisman. These are all guys who are on everyone’s list of contenders and they will play good, but they will not be holding the trophy come December. The first pretender for the trophy is Mark Ingram. I know it is hard to call the defending Heisman Winner a pretender, but when you consider the fact that he may not even be the best running back on his team, it’s hard to predict a repeat performance of last year. The next pretender is Ryan Mallet. Unlike Ingram, Mallett will put up all kinds of crazy numbers; however his team will let him down. I do not believe the Razorbacks are going to win enough ball games to make him a legitimate contender. The last of my pretenders is everyone’s darling…Jake Locker. I know that he was good last year, and I know that this is year 2 in Steve Sarksian’s system, but I don’t think his team will win enough, and I question whether or not he can be as successful as he was last year. There you have my top 3 pretenders for the Trophy, now here are my top 5 contenders for the Heisman Trophy in reverse order…
5. Julio Jones – Alabama
I know this is a sleeper and I know what kind of year he had last year. I also know that Alabama lost 8 key defenders from last year’s National Championship team. I also know they have several games where they will be forced to score some points. I also know that Julio Jones is a beast who will physically dominate almost every cornerback he will line up against all year, so I do think he could have a big season.
2009 Season: 43 Rec 596 yards 4 TD’s
4. Landry Jones – Oklahoma
Again, kind of a sleeper, but Oklahoma is going to have a very good year and I think he will have some games with national importance (FSU, Texas, Nebraska) where he will have to be good and score lots of points. He came on strong as the year progressed last year and I think he will only continue to improve this year.
2009 Season: 261 – 449 58.1% 3198 yards 26 TD’s 14 Int
3. Kellen Moore – Boise State
Kellen Moore was as close to perfect as you can get last year, throwing 39 td’s and only 3 picks. That is hard to do in practice against a scout team (some may argue that his schedule reflects a scout team but that is for another time). Any way you look at it, Moore was very impressive and considering they are starting at #3 in the polls and a pretty soft schedule, he should be in the discussion all season long. If he has a strong showing against a weak Virginia Tech defense on Monday night, he may have enough credibility to push him to the trophy.
2009 Season: 281 – 405 69.4% 3486 yards 39 TD’s 3 Ints
2. Christian Ponder – Florida State
It has been a long time since FSU has be relevant to the National picture, but that will all change this season and a big part of that will be the success of Christian Ponder. The team should be good and could be a sleeper pick to be in the National Championship picture. He has a solid offensive line which is returning 5 starters. Last season through 9 games, Ponder produced more than any of the more hyped qb’s from last season. Through 8 games, Ponder was averaging over 339 YPG, he had a 2 – 1 TD – Int ratio and the only defense he could not outscore was his own. That should change a this year as the defense looks to be much improved and that should lead to Ponder putting FSU back into a position of national prominence.
2009 Season: 177 – 330 68.8% 2717 yards 14 TD’s 7 Ints (through 8 games)
1. Terrelle Pryor – Ohio State
More times than not, the Heisman goes to the best player on the best team in the country and by December, there are going to be a lot of people who believe the Buckeyes are just that. Pryor made huge strides in the Rose Bowl last season and if he follows that up with a strong performance this season, I can’t see anyone else winning this award. Pryor may be the most athletic qb in the country and his dual threat ability will give him lots of opportunities to have a Heisman moment both running and throwing the ball. All things considered, I think all signs points to the Heisman coming back to Columbus, Ohio.
2009 Season: 167 – 295 68% 2094 yards 18 TD’s 11 Ints 162 Carries 779 Yards 7 TD’s
There you have it, my top 5 picks for the Heisman Trophy for this upcoming season. What do you think, who did I leave out. Who should be higher? Give me your feedback.
UNTIL NEXT TIME…
The college football season is officially under way. It started on Thursday night with a handful of games and a handful of solid performances. However, before we can get to the National Championship, there is a certain award that has to be given out in New York on the 2nd Saturday in December, The Heisman Trophy.
Now when looking at potential Heisman candidates, there are a couple of things that must be considered. First, the official description of the Heisman Trophy is “College Football’s most outstanding player”. Therefore, anyone who has a great year has a chance at winning the award. That would open the door for guys like Case Keenum and Taylor Potts, but there is no way either of those guys have a chance at winning the award. Since 2000, the Heisman Trophy winner has played in the National Championship game (the only exception to the rule is Tim Tebow in 2007), therefore, we know that not only do you have to put up good numbers, but you also have to be on a good team.
Now that we know what you have to do to win the award, let me give you 3 people from everyone’s list who WILL NOT win the Heisman. These are all guys who are on everyone’s list of contenders and they will play good, but they will not be holding the trophy come December. The first pretender for the trophy is Mark Ingram. I know it is hard to call the defending Heisman Winner a pretender, but when you consider the fact that he may not even be the best running back on his team, it’s hard to predict a repeat performance of last year. The next pretender is Ryan Mallet. Unlike Ingram, Mallett will put up all kinds of crazy numbers; however his team will let him down. I do not believe the Razorbacks are going to win enough ball games to make him a legitimate contender. The last of my pretenders is everyone’s darling…Jake Locker. I know that he was good last year, and I know that this is year 2 in Steve Sarksian’s system, but I don’t think his team will win enough, and I question whether or not he can be as successful as he was last year. There you have my top 3 pretenders for the Trophy, now here are my top 5 contenders for the Heisman Trophy in reverse order…
5. Julio Jones – Alabama
I know this is a sleeper and I know what kind of year he had last year. I also know that Alabama lost 8 key defenders from last year’s National Championship team. I also know they have several games where they will be forced to score some points. I also know that Julio Jones is a beast who will physically dominate almost every cornerback he will line up against all year, so I do think he could have a big season.
2009 Season: 43 Rec 596 yards 4 TD’s
4. Landry Jones – Oklahoma
Again, kind of a sleeper, but Oklahoma is going to have a very good year and I think he will have some games with national importance (FSU, Texas, Nebraska) where he will have to be good and score lots of points. He came on strong as the year progressed last year and I think he will only continue to improve this year.
2009 Season: 261 – 449 58.1% 3198 yards 26 TD’s 14 Int
3. Kellen Moore – Boise State
Kellen Moore was as close to perfect as you can get last year, throwing 39 td’s and only 3 picks. That is hard to do in practice against a scout team (some may argue that his schedule reflects a scout team but that is for another time). Any way you look at it, Moore was very impressive and considering they are starting at #3 in the polls and a pretty soft schedule, he should be in the discussion all season long. If he has a strong showing against a weak Virginia Tech defense on Monday night, he may have enough credibility to push him to the trophy.
2009 Season: 281 – 405 69.4% 3486 yards 39 TD’s 3 Ints
2. Christian Ponder – Florida State
It has been a long time since FSU has be relevant to the National picture, but that will all change this season and a big part of that will be the success of Christian Ponder. The team should be good and could be a sleeper pick to be in the National Championship picture. He has a solid offensive line which is returning 5 starters. Last season through 9 games, Ponder produced more than any of the more hyped qb’s from last season. Through 8 games, Ponder was averaging over 339 YPG, he had a 2 – 1 TD – Int ratio and the only defense he could not outscore was his own. That should change a this year as the defense looks to be much improved and that should lead to Ponder putting FSU back into a position of national prominence.
2009 Season: 177 – 330 68.8% 2717 yards 14 TD’s 7 Ints (through 8 games)
1. Terrelle Pryor – Ohio State
More times than not, the Heisman goes to the best player on the best team in the country and by December, there are going to be a lot of people who believe the Buckeyes are just that. Pryor made huge strides in the Rose Bowl last season and if he follows that up with a strong performance this season, I can’t see anyone else winning this award. Pryor may be the most athletic qb in the country and his dual threat ability will give him lots of opportunities to have a Heisman moment both running and throwing the ball. All things considered, I think all signs points to the Heisman coming back to Columbus, Ohio.
2009 Season: 167 – 295 68% 2094 yards 18 TD’s 11 Ints 162 Carries 779 Yards 7 TD’s
There you have it, my top 5 picks for the Heisman Trophy for this upcoming season. What do you think, who did I leave out. Who should be higher? Give me your feedback.
UNTIL NEXT TIME…
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Thursday's Picks...
The opening night of college football is here, as games kick off in about an hour. With that bring said, you know I am going to offer my picks. So here we go, the picks for Thursday nights games...
Southern Miss v. South Carolina
Should be an interesting here, but ultimately SC has too many athletes for Southern Miss to pull the upset. For them to be successful they just pressure Stephen Garcia and hope he continues to make mistakes like he did last year, I don't think he does. This game will be close for a short time but SC will pull it out.
USC v. Hawaii
This game will be over by the middle of the 2nd quarter. Hawaii is typically a high powered offense, but they will be shut down by one of the better teams in the country. Look for the Lane Kiffin experiment to be a very good decision (even if its only for a few games). USC wins big.
Pittsburgh v. Utah
This is the game of the night. It should be a very entertaining. This is a reach of the Fiesta Bowl from a few years back. That game was won by Utah, they will not be so lucky this time. Dion Lewis will have a big game and Pitt will pull out a close one.
Saturdays picks will be up tomorrow.
UNTIL NEXT TIME...
Southern Miss v. South Carolina
Should be an interesting here, but ultimately SC has too many athletes for Southern Miss to pull the upset. For them to be successful they just pressure Stephen Garcia and hope he continues to make mistakes like he did last year, I don't think he does. This game will be close for a short time but SC will pull it out.
USC v. Hawaii
This game will be over by the middle of the 2nd quarter. Hawaii is typically a high powered offense, but they will be shut down by one of the better teams in the country. Look for the Lane Kiffin experiment to be a very good decision (even if its only for a few games). USC wins big.
Pittsburgh v. Utah
This is the game of the night. It should be a very entertaining. This is a reach of the Fiesta Bowl from a few years back. That game was won by Utah, they will not be so lucky this time. Dion Lewis will have a big game and Pitt will pull out a close one.
Saturdays picks will be up tomorrow.
UNTIL NEXT TIME...
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