January 1st used to be home to more than a few bowls; however, with the (relatively) new BCS-format, it's changed up a bit.
Several bowls (Outback, Capital One, Gator) get their due; yet, several marquee names (Cotton, Sugar, & Fiesta) get their own days/nights.
Nevertheless, let's tackle the 5 games you'll have the opportunity to watch tomorrow, in order of course.
11:00 am - Outback Bowl [South Carolina vs. Iowa]
Ever since November 15th's 56-6 beatdown from his former Gators, I've had the odd feeling that the Gamecocks may be tired of waiting for Steve Spurrier to inspire/coach/prepare/transform them to the next level. While his team is playing on New Year's, that's hardly a compliment when you consider their 7-5 mark and yearly "fade to bowl season". Meanwhile, Iowa can hang it's hat on costing Penn State a BCS Title Game appearance and that the majority of its skill position players (primarily QB Ricky Stanzi and RB Shonn Greene) are all returning next season. I see no reason to believe the Gamecocks will "get up" for the Ole Ball Coach and deliver an inspired win. I'm taking Iowa to continue building towards next year, even if it's entertaingly-close.
Impact Players: Sophomore Iowa QB Ricky Stanzi may walk into next season challenging the far more well known Big Ten QBs for top honors. No better place to lay your claim than here.
Prediction: Iowa wins 27-23
1:00 pm - Gator Bowl [Nebraska vs. Clemson]
The two coaches on the sideline may command more media attention than the talent on the field. Bo Pelini would love 9-wins and a New Year's Day bowl game victory for his first season; meanwhile, Dabo Sweeney still has a lot of detractors-in-waiting after securing the job after being brought on in an interim basis for fired Tommy Bowden. While the game will ultimately come down to the talent on the field, I can't help but wonder how the major stories in each region's newspapers will be impacted by a win/loss due to the performance of these coaches (and not necessarily their teams).
Impact Players: Clemson RB tandem James David and CJ Spiller may have combined for 1300+ yards and 18 rushing TDs; nevertheless, they were both cataclysmic dissapointments - alongside their team - the majority of the season. Draft stock matters in bowl games, big time.
Prediction: Clemson wins 30-28
1:00 pm - Capital One Bowl [Georgia vs. Michigan State]
Most people expect this one to be a laugher in favor of the Bulldogs, yet I'm not so sure. In a season in which they started #1, this team isn't making a statement similar to that against Hawaii in the Sugar Bowl last season. Both teams are loaded with upperclassmen, which means the game will come down to execution and who can avoid giving up the big play late.
Players to Watch: Matthew Stafford has one last major chance to show why he's #1-overall talent; yet, it's Michigan State senior RB Javon Ringer that might be the most talented player on the field.
Prediction: Georgia wins 38-28
5:00 pm - Rose Bowl [Penn State vs. USC]
I could talk for days and days trying to break down this game, but I won't. Why? Because this game will come down to one simple question: can Penn State keep up with the athletes at USC? Well, can they?
Players to Watch: The three skill position players at Penn State better be ready to run-run-run. QB Daryll Clark must realize that ball security and long, time-consuming drives are his best friends. RB Evan Royster better be ready to bruise people up the middle, as well as along the edges. WR Deon Butler has got to open up lanes - perhaps through making an early catch or two downfield - in order to spread out a speedy (and underrated) Trojan defense.
Prediction: USC wins 41-17
8:00 pm - Orange Bowl [Cincinnati vs. Virginia Tech]
The BCS game most people don't claim to "care about", just might end up being one of the best, seriously. Tech has a lot of talent and much of it isn't juniors and seniors. Meanwhile, Cincinnati was an 11-2 team and outside of an embarassing loss in Stoors (not in basketball, mind you) they dominated Big East play. While I can honestly admit I didn't watch a single snap of the Bearcast season, Hokie fans know not to underestimate opponents; especially after Tech lost to Kansas last season - in absolutely horrid Miami weather - in the Orange Bowl.
Players to Watch: Any legit Hokie fan will tell you that Jason "All" Worlds is one of the reasons they're most excited about next season. His playmaking ability is astounding due to his size and speed around the corner. He'll pose more than a few problems for Cincy's backfield.
Prediction: Virginia Tech wins 21-20
While bowl games - especially with the writer's on this staff - might take priority #1; it'd be a mistake to miss out on 5 potentially entertaining New Year's Day bowl games.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Tuesday FourCast: Week 17
Another regular season down the drain. Some are rejoicing the extension of their teams' lives by one more week, such as Philly fans, who had everything fall into place through their trifecta of success (beating Dallas and watching Chicago and Tampa lose). Others cried foul, such as New England's faithful, who watched their team secure an 11-5 record, yet be denied a playoff berth thanks to Baltimore's victory and Brett Favre's crapulence. Regardless, this was a season to remember ... if not for the football, then for the garbage officiating :-)
1. Year of the Falcon
If your team missed out on the postseason, I really don't see how you can cheer for anyone other than the Atlanta Falcons. (And if you're still too busy sulking, then I invite you to go back to Ft. Worth and continue crying over spilt popcorn). I understand that the Miami Dolphins finished with a far worse record last season, and therefore finished with a 10-game turnaround compared with the Falcons' 7-game positive swing. However, the Fins coach stayed with them through their 1-15 season, and their turmoil was entirely based around poor football decisions. Now, I generally can't stand the Falcons, and I cheered against them most of the time, for no good reason really, but I still didn't like them. But this team watched its "quarterback of the future" get sent to prison for heinous crimes against animals. And then, as if being led by Joey Harrington wasn't bad enough, faux-savior/faux-coach/faux-human Bobby Petrino quit on his team with 3-games left in the 2007 regular season. This poor team basically had a gigantic turd laid on it's head both at the onset of last season and near it's end. What Mike Smith, Michael Turner, Matt Ryan and Roddy White have done there is nothing short of miraculous and awe-inspiring. And as much as it pains me, I'll be cheering for these guys starting this weekend.
2. Year of the Psych-Out
The Washington Redskins record through Week 8: 6-2. The New York Jets record through Week 13: 9-3. The Tampa Bay Bucs record through Week 13: 9-3. San Diego through Week 13: 4-8. Guess which ONE of these teams actually made the playoffs ...
Okay, so San Diego did squeak in despite not finishing with a winning record (8-8) thanks to Denver's choke job over the final three weeks of the season, but that doesn't take away from the fact that in the NFL two cliché rules ALWAYS apply:
A) You can never count a team out, and
B) There's no such thing as a sure thing (not even Norv Turner losing in December).
Now, the Redskins were never as good as their 6-2 record implied, nor were the Bolts nearly as bad as their 4-8 record claimed. Regardless, both teams psyched-out their own fans and those of their rivals, and thereby helped create a very intense and important Week 17 of the NFL season.
3. Year of the Bad Calls
Normally I do not re-use a blurb from my intro to the FourCast again as an item, but this was a big one. Starting with Ed Hochuli's terrible blown call in the Week 2 Denver/San Diego matchup, and ending with Walt Coleman's irresponsible overturning of the "No Touchdown" call in the Pittsburgh/Baltimore game, this was a poor season for the NFL's officiating crew. (NOTE: I do believe that Santonio Holmes scored on that play against Baltimore, HOWEVER, there was no conclusive evidence to overturn the call of "No Touchdown." Therefore, Coleman overstepped his bounds as a referee ... regardless of what the NFL's resident douchebag Mike Pereira says). Unfortunately, these bad calls decided games that ultimately decided playoff scenarios (Baltimore could have become the #2 seed rather than the #6 seed), yet nothing could be done after-the-fact.
Poor officiating has dogged most professional and collegiate sports since their inception, this is a fact of life which we must face and accept. However, when the officiating raises to blatant irresponsibility and horrendous calls which determine the final outcome of games, then action must be taken. The NFL must institute some form of an in-game review of its officials in extreme situations ... such as when referees blatantly ignore the standard by which they blow their whistles and overturn calls.
4. Year of the "Evening Out"
There would have been an embeded youtube clip of the Seinfeld "evening out" or "even steven" episode here. Unfortunately, I couldn't find a short clip of it on youtube or anywhere else on the web. But in essence, in the episode, Seinfeld always manages to break even. Whether it's on his trip to Vegas, or when he loses one gig, but finds another one for the same weekend for the same pay, Jerry believes that things always even out. As he told Elaine, when she was down on her luck, "Elaine, don't get too down. Everything'll even out, see, I have two friends, you were up, he was down. Now he's up, you're down."
Well, this law applies to the NFL and it's extreme parity. In the 2007 regular season, the New England Patriots became the first team in history to finish 16-0 in the regular season. Even though they did not win the Super Bowl, such dominance over the course of the regular season seemed to fly in the face of the great parity which the NFL preached. Enter the 2008 Detroit Lions.
Just as there was an undefeated regular season team before the Pats (the 1972 Dolphins finished 14-0), there was once a winless team in the NFL as well (the 1976 Bucs finished 0-14). But Lions had to go and out-do the Bucs and lose 16 games in one season. While this sucks for the Detroit fans, it's for the greater good. Hopefully the powers that be in the Motor City will take note of the fine folks in Miami, Atlanta and Baltimore, and turn this around for the league's first 0-16 team.
Thanks for another season. Breakdown of each individual playoff game begins on Thursday morning!
1. Year of the Falcon
If your team missed out on the postseason, I really don't see how you can cheer for anyone other than the Atlanta Falcons. (And if you're still too busy sulking, then I invite you to go back to Ft. Worth and continue crying over spilt popcorn). I understand that the Miami Dolphins finished with a far worse record last season, and therefore finished with a 10-game turnaround compared with the Falcons' 7-game positive swing. However, the Fins coach stayed with them through their 1-15 season, and their turmoil was entirely based around poor football decisions. Now, I generally can't stand the Falcons, and I cheered against them most of the time, for no good reason really, but I still didn't like them. But this team watched its "quarterback of the future" get sent to prison for heinous crimes against animals. And then, as if being led by Joey Harrington wasn't bad enough, faux-savior/faux-coach/faux-human Bobby Petrino quit on his team with 3-games left in the 2007 regular season. This poor team basically had a gigantic turd laid on it's head both at the onset of last season and near it's end. What Mike Smith, Michael Turner, Matt Ryan and Roddy White have done there is nothing short of miraculous and awe-inspiring. And as much as it pains me, I'll be cheering for these guys starting this weekend.
2. Year of the Psych-Out
The Washington Redskins record through Week 8: 6-2. The New York Jets record through Week 13: 9-3. The Tampa Bay Bucs record through Week 13: 9-3. San Diego through Week 13: 4-8. Guess which ONE of these teams actually made the playoffs ...
Okay, so San Diego did squeak in despite not finishing with a winning record (8-8) thanks to Denver's choke job over the final three weeks of the season, but that doesn't take away from the fact that in the NFL two cliché rules ALWAYS apply:
A) You can never count a team out, and
B) There's no such thing as a sure thing (not even Norv Turner losing in December).
Now, the Redskins were never as good as their 6-2 record implied, nor were the Bolts nearly as bad as their 4-8 record claimed. Regardless, both teams psyched-out their own fans and those of their rivals, and thereby helped create a very intense and important Week 17 of the NFL season.
3. Year of the Bad Calls
Normally I do not re-use a blurb from my intro to the FourCast again as an item, but this was a big one. Starting with Ed Hochuli's terrible blown call in the Week 2 Denver/San Diego matchup, and ending with Walt Coleman's irresponsible overturning of the "No Touchdown" call in the Pittsburgh/Baltimore game, this was a poor season for the NFL's officiating crew. (NOTE: I do believe that Santonio Holmes scored on that play against Baltimore, HOWEVER, there was no conclusive evidence to overturn the call of "No Touchdown." Therefore, Coleman overstepped his bounds as a referee ... regardless of what the NFL's resident douchebag Mike Pereira says). Unfortunately, these bad calls decided games that ultimately decided playoff scenarios (Baltimore could have become the #2 seed rather than the #6 seed), yet nothing could be done after-the-fact.
Poor officiating has dogged most professional and collegiate sports since their inception, this is a fact of life which we must face and accept. However, when the officiating raises to blatant irresponsibility and horrendous calls which determine the final outcome of games, then action must be taken. The NFL must institute some form of an in-game review of its officials in extreme situations ... such as when referees blatantly ignore the standard by which they blow their whistles and overturn calls.
4. Year of the "Evening Out"
There would have been an embeded youtube clip of the Seinfeld "evening out" or "even steven" episode here. Unfortunately, I couldn't find a short clip of it on youtube or anywhere else on the web. But in essence, in the episode, Seinfeld always manages to break even. Whether it's on his trip to Vegas, or when he loses one gig, but finds another one for the same weekend for the same pay, Jerry believes that things always even out. As he told Elaine, when she was down on her luck, "Elaine, don't get too down. Everything'll even out, see, I have two friends, you were up, he was down. Now he's up, you're down."
Well, this law applies to the NFL and it's extreme parity. In the 2007 regular season, the New England Patriots became the first team in history to finish 16-0 in the regular season. Even though they did not win the Super Bowl, such dominance over the course of the regular season seemed to fly in the face of the great parity which the NFL preached. Enter the 2008 Detroit Lions.
Just as there was an undefeated regular season team before the Pats (the 1972 Dolphins finished 14-0), there was once a winless team in the NFL as well (the 1976 Bucs finished 0-14). But Lions had to go and out-do the Bucs and lose 16 games in one season. While this sucks for the Detroit fans, it's for the greater good. Hopefully the powers that be in the Motor City will take note of the fine folks in Miami, Atlanta and Baltimore, and turn this around for the league's first 0-16 team.
Thanks for another season. Breakdown of each individual playoff game begins on Thursday morning!
Monday, December 29, 2008
So it's come to this...AFC-style
Yesterday, the NFC got its due. Today, it's AFC time.
Let's get a few things straight (again)...
The identity of the Ravens begins and ends with Ray Lewis. If you're looking for the emotional leader to watch during Wild Card weekend...look no further.
Credit: Yahoo! Sports
AFC
..."The Guys You DREAM about Being"...
#1. (13-3) Tennessee Titans
Comment: Ever since the run for undefeated ended (not that anyone took it too seriously), the Titans did just enough - including a highly impressive home victory over the Steelers - to secure homefield throughout the AFC. Their reward? Potentially the suffocating defense of Baltimore OR the winner of the Colts/Bolts. Awesome, right?
Guy to Watch: Albert Haynesworth is the heart and soul of this defense. We get it. Nevertheless, if this team can't score enough points on offense, the Titans may be one-and-done. I'm looking at an aging Kerry Collins and wondering if his last playoff go-round will be his most memorable or not.
#2. (12-4) Pittsburgh Steelers
Comment: Big Ben should be fine and the Steelers will make the very most of their week off. Problem is, this team can be beat in Pittsburgh. How do I know this? David Garrard and a very different Jaguars team took some of the luster away from Heinz field last year. Nobody is walking into Pittsburgh intimidated anymore.
Guy to Watch: Santonio Holmes was a collosal fantasy dissapointment. Duh. Nevertheless, he has downfield ability and can open up lanes for both the rush game and for slot wideout/cheap-shot artist Hines Ward.
..The Guys Everyone Out of the Playoffs Wants to Be Next Year"...
#3. (11-5) Miami Dolphins
Comment: Just because the team beat teams it was "supposed to beat" doesn't mean it will lie down - at home - against the Ravens. Take care of the ball, slip Ted Ginn downfield a play or two, and bust open an unexpected special teams play or two and the game may be theirs. Playing with house money makes you very dangerous.
Guy to Watch: Ronnie Brown is the lone Dolphin Pro Bowler for a reason. His ability in the Wildcat Formation allows the Dolphins 4-5 chances a game to open up a big play. He'll need to be ready for a brutal pounding from the Raven defense. If he survives though, Miami might too.
...Yes, YOU can make the playoffs after starting 4-8...
#4. (8-8) San Diego Chargers
Comment: 4-8 and suddenly everything seems to go right. While LT's groin is an obvious issue, Phillip Rivers isn't the NFL's top-rated QB for no reason. As dangerous as the Colts are, you gotta know the Chargers have no fear about them coming into their house.
Guy to Watch: Antonio Cromartie has to be the elite shutdown cornerback many pegged him as after last year's sensational effort. While that's easier said then done against the likes of Manning/Wayne/Harrison, it's time for AC to go Prime Time.
..The Teams NOBODY Wants to See Right Now"...
#5. (12-4) Indianapolis Colts
Comment: The media loves this team and Peyton Manning likely has a third NFL MVP secured (although he did share one with McNair). Blah blah blah. Wake me up when something new is said.
Guy to Watch: Addai and Rhodes are behind the likes of Manning and Bob Sanders in acclaim; nevertheless, I want to see if these two backs can work the same chemistry they did two seasons ago en route to a championship.
#6. (11-5) Baltimore Ravens
Comment: The coordinators (Cameron & Ryan) have been the perfect duo behind their rookie head coach. Meanwhile, Ed Reed (9 INTs) is playing as well as any defender in football, the RB duo of McClain & McGahee (in that order) look terrific, and it's another rookie QB leading his team to 11 wins. How sweet.
Guy to Watch: Haloti Ngata was given a real tough time in Baltimore after being drafted, until he showed up on the field. Nowadays, he's perhaps the most athletic man - at his size - the NFL has seen in quite some time. He clogs the middle and allows those playmakers behind him to dominate. Not bad for a collegiate underachiever who "took plays off".
..."The 11-5 Team NOT in the NFL Playoffs"...
#7. (11-5) New England Patriots
Comment: I'm a bitter Jet fan, so I'm clinging to a pathetic notion that as long as the Pats are out...all is good. It's all I have...
Guy to Watch: Matt Cassell, of course.
..."The Same Old Jets"...
#8. (9-7) New York Jets
Comment: There's nothing left to say except, "same old Jets".
Guy to Watch: Vernon Gholston has an offseason to get ready for next year. 12 total tackles again may run him out of New York for good.
..."The Others"...
#9. (8-8) Houston Texans
Comment: Another season where they end well in Houston. Question is: when do they start well and put two-and-two together?
Guy to Watch: Steve Slaton has dynamic talent. Better get him a legit compliment in the first 3 rounds of the draft next season. Ahman Green can't be that guy.
#10. (8-8) Denver Broncos
Comment: One win in the final four weeks and we're all treated to yet another Colts/Broncos game. Thank god this team lost out.
Guy to Watch: The RB-position needs stability and some luck with injuries. Peyton Hillis ain't the answer, either.
#11. (7-9) Buffalo Bills
Comment: Dick Jauron should save his job; however, real answers are needed when you go from 5-1 to 7-9. Especially when you're winless (0-6) in the AFC East amidst those final 10 games.
Guy to Watch: Trent Edwards. Up-and-coming superstar my a**.
..."The Other Others"...
#12. (5-11) Oakland Raiders
Comment: Whether or not they hire a new coach is irrelevant. The team can't draft well and there's nothing stable in the locker room. 5-11 might be the best this team sees for the next few seasons.
Guy to Watch: JaMarcus Russell has shown glimpses. But are only glimpses what you expect from the #1 overall pick?
..."How the 'Mighty' Have Fallen..."
#13. (5-11) Jacksonville Jaguars
Comment: As dissapointing a team as the Green Bay Packers, the Jags are lucky their media market stinks and they aren't getting any play as total underachievers.
Guy to Watch: David Garrard sucked this year. That's being nice, too. Another ECU QB flameout? Probably.
...And then there's "THEM"...
#14. (4-11-1) Cincinnati Bengals
Comment: I love that people were stupid enough to believe in this organization.
Guy to Watch: Chad Ocho Cinco is a pariah. Ride his big mouth out of town if you want any chance of locker room continuity and self-respect.
#15. (4-12) Cleveland Browns
Comment: I called this record EXACTLY. Anyone who believed that this organization - behind Savage & Crenel - were playoff bound was an idiot. 4 QBs or not.
Guy to Watch: Brady Quinn is gonna need a lot of Myoplex to pull this organization out of the toilet. 10-6 was a fluke. A total fluke.
#16. (2-14) Kansas City Chiefs
Comment: It's gonna be a series of double-digit loss seasons for years to come...
Guy to Watch: Giving all that money to someone with the character of Larry Johnson will bury Carl Peterson's legacy in Kansas City. Probably serves him right, too.
PHSports Playoff previews and predictions start TOMORROW!!!
Let's get a few things straight (again)...
The identity of the Ravens begins and ends with Ray Lewis. If you're looking for the emotional leader to watch during Wild Card weekend...look no further.Credit: Yahoo! Sports
AFC
..."The Guys You DREAM about Being"...
#1. (13-3) Tennessee Titans
Comment: Ever since the run for undefeated ended (not that anyone took it too seriously), the Titans did just enough - including a highly impressive home victory over the Steelers - to secure homefield throughout the AFC. Their reward? Potentially the suffocating defense of Baltimore OR the winner of the Colts/Bolts. Awesome, right?
Guy to Watch: Albert Haynesworth is the heart and soul of this defense. We get it. Nevertheless, if this team can't score enough points on offense, the Titans may be one-and-done. I'm looking at an aging Kerry Collins and wondering if his last playoff go-round will be his most memorable or not.
#2. (12-4) Pittsburgh Steelers
Comment: Big Ben should be fine and the Steelers will make the very most of their week off. Problem is, this team can be beat in Pittsburgh. How do I know this? David Garrard and a very different Jaguars team took some of the luster away from Heinz field last year. Nobody is walking into Pittsburgh intimidated anymore.
Guy to Watch: Santonio Holmes was a collosal fantasy dissapointment. Duh. Nevertheless, he has downfield ability and can open up lanes for both the rush game and for slot wideout/cheap-shot artist Hines Ward.
..The Guys Everyone Out of the Playoffs Wants to Be Next Year"...
#3. (11-5) Miami Dolphins
Comment: Just because the team beat teams it was "supposed to beat" doesn't mean it will lie down - at home - against the Ravens. Take care of the ball, slip Ted Ginn downfield a play or two, and bust open an unexpected special teams play or two and the game may be theirs. Playing with house money makes you very dangerous.
Guy to Watch: Ronnie Brown is the lone Dolphin Pro Bowler for a reason. His ability in the Wildcat Formation allows the Dolphins 4-5 chances a game to open up a big play. He'll need to be ready for a brutal pounding from the Raven defense. If he survives though, Miami might too.
...Yes, YOU can make the playoffs after starting 4-8...
#4. (8-8) San Diego Chargers
Comment: 4-8 and suddenly everything seems to go right. While LT's groin is an obvious issue, Phillip Rivers isn't the NFL's top-rated QB for no reason. As dangerous as the Colts are, you gotta know the Chargers have no fear about them coming into their house.
Guy to Watch: Antonio Cromartie has to be the elite shutdown cornerback many pegged him as after last year's sensational effort. While that's easier said then done against the likes of Manning/Wayne/Harrison, it's time for AC to go Prime Time.
..The Teams NOBODY Wants to See Right Now"...
#5. (12-4) Indianapolis Colts
Comment: The media loves this team and Peyton Manning likely has a third NFL MVP secured (although he did share one with McNair). Blah blah blah. Wake me up when something new is said.
Guy to Watch: Addai and Rhodes are behind the likes of Manning and Bob Sanders in acclaim; nevertheless, I want to see if these two backs can work the same chemistry they did two seasons ago en route to a championship.
#6. (11-5) Baltimore Ravens
Comment: The coordinators (Cameron & Ryan) have been the perfect duo behind their rookie head coach. Meanwhile, Ed Reed (9 INTs) is playing as well as any defender in football, the RB duo of McClain & McGahee (in that order) look terrific, and it's another rookie QB leading his team to 11 wins. How sweet.
Guy to Watch: Haloti Ngata was given a real tough time in Baltimore after being drafted, until he showed up on the field. Nowadays, he's perhaps the most athletic man - at his size - the NFL has seen in quite some time. He clogs the middle and allows those playmakers behind him to dominate. Not bad for a collegiate underachiever who "took plays off".
..."The 11-5 Team NOT in the NFL Playoffs"...
#7. (11-5) New England Patriots
Comment: I'm a bitter Jet fan, so I'm clinging to a pathetic notion that as long as the Pats are out...all is good. It's all I have...
Guy to Watch: Matt Cassell, of course.
..."The Same Old Jets"...
#8. (9-7) New York Jets
Comment: There's nothing left to say except, "same old Jets".
Guy to Watch: Vernon Gholston has an offseason to get ready for next year. 12 total tackles again may run him out of New York for good.
..."The Others"...
#9. (8-8) Houston Texans
Comment: Another season where they end well in Houston. Question is: when do they start well and put two-and-two together?
Guy to Watch: Steve Slaton has dynamic talent. Better get him a legit compliment in the first 3 rounds of the draft next season. Ahman Green can't be that guy.
#10. (8-8) Denver Broncos
Comment: One win in the final four weeks and we're all treated to yet another Colts/Broncos game. Thank god this team lost out.
Guy to Watch: The RB-position needs stability and some luck with injuries. Peyton Hillis ain't the answer, either.
#11. (7-9) Buffalo Bills
Comment: Dick Jauron should save his job; however, real answers are needed when you go from 5-1 to 7-9. Especially when you're winless (0-6) in the AFC East amidst those final 10 games.
Guy to Watch: Trent Edwards. Up-and-coming superstar my a**.
..."The Other Others"...
#12. (5-11) Oakland Raiders
Comment: Whether or not they hire a new coach is irrelevant. The team can't draft well and there's nothing stable in the locker room. 5-11 might be the best this team sees for the next few seasons.
Guy to Watch: JaMarcus Russell has shown glimpses. But are only glimpses what you expect from the #1 overall pick?
..."How the 'Mighty' Have Fallen..."
#13. (5-11) Jacksonville Jaguars
Comment: As dissapointing a team as the Green Bay Packers, the Jags are lucky their media market stinks and they aren't getting any play as total underachievers.
Guy to Watch: David Garrard sucked this year. That's being nice, too. Another ECU QB flameout? Probably.
...And then there's "THEM"...
#14. (4-11-1) Cincinnati Bengals
Comment: I love that people were stupid enough to believe in this organization.
Guy to Watch: Chad Ocho Cinco is a pariah. Ride his big mouth out of town if you want any chance of locker room continuity and self-respect.
#15. (4-12) Cleveland Browns
Comment: I called this record EXACTLY. Anyone who believed that this organization - behind Savage & Crenel - were playoff bound was an idiot. 4 QBs or not.
Guy to Watch: Brady Quinn is gonna need a lot of Myoplex to pull this organization out of the toilet. 10-6 was a fluke. A total fluke.
#16. (2-14) Kansas City Chiefs
Comment: It's gonna be a series of double-digit loss seasons for years to come...
Guy to Watch: Giving all that money to someone with the character of Larry Johnson will bury Carl Peterson's legacy in Kansas City. Probably serves him right, too.
PHSports Playoff previews and predictions start TOMORROW!!!
Sunday, December 28, 2008
So it's come to this...NFC-Style
In case you've been hiding under a collapsed brick wall today...NFL seedings are set.
Let's get a few things straight...
This is the guy - for me, at least - who will have the most to do with who ends up representing the NFC in the Super Bowl this season.
Credit: Yahoo! Sports
NFC
..."The Guys You DREAM about Being"...
#1. (12-4) New York Giants
Comment: Despite the Plaxico-incident, Jacobs missing two weeks/being banged up for a month, and the difficult task of defending a championship...the G-Men remain the team to beat in the NFC as the #1-seed.
Guy to Watch: Brandon Jacobs. Eli is the epicenter of this team; however, this season - unlike last year's playoff team - hinged on the ability of their monster back to brutalize defenses in the first half. 3 more dominant efforts and they may very well again hoist the Lombardy Trophy.
#2. (12-4) Carolina Panthers
Comment: 12-4 is a lot easier when you're undefeated (8-0) at home, which is exactly where the Panthers will be in the Divisional Round in two weeks. Plenty of rest for DeAngelo Williams (1515 yards and 20 total TDs) and company.
Guy to Watch: Steve Smith has more ability than any receiver his size. In fact, it's not even close. He's got to have his head straight and his legs ready to burst through secondaries throughout January. He'll need to carry this team - even more than Williams/Stewart - late in close playoff (potential shootout) games.
..The Guys Everyone Else WISHES to Be"...
#3. (10-6) Minnesota Vikings
Comment: Don't forget what Gus Frerrote did for this team; however, Tavaris Jackson did just enough to lock up the NFC North and a home playoff game for the Vikes. The health of Pat Williams and their psyche against a dangerous Philadelphia team loom ominous. By the way, welcome to the NFL Playoffs Adrian Peterson.
Guy to Watch: Tavaris and A-Pete are the easy gets. I'm watching to see if Bernard Berrian can continue his recent torrid month and prove the contract was well worth it. His speed dramatically changes games downfield.
#4. (9-7) Arizona Cardinals
Comment: As ugly a 9-7 team you've ever seen, they still won their division for the first time since Kennedy was in the Whire House AND will host an actual playoff game.
Guy to Watch: Darnell Dockett is the only defender - outside possibly Wilson/Rolle - who defenses gameplan against. Michael Turner can't be allowed to easily pass through the guard and tackle spots or this game will be well over before the first half ends.
#5. (11-5) Atlanta Falcons
Comment: At the beginning of the season (or even the mid-way point), if you had the Falcons at 11-5 and a favorite in their opening playoff game...you need to hit up Cesar's Palace immediately. This team is playing with house money. Enjoy watching 'em.
Guy to Watch: John Abraham has shut it down in previous playoff games, going as far to not even suit up. He'll need to be all over Kurt Warner next weekend...or the Falcons won't leave Arizona victors.
#6. (9-6-1) Philadelphia Eagles
Comment: Somehow, the tie-game didn't come back to bite them. Meanwhile, Andy Reid and Donovan F. McNabb are playoff bound yet again. Don't look now Giant fans, but the Iggles might be coming to town in two weeks. Look out.
Guy to Watch: We all know how Brian Westbrook makes this team go. I got it. Instead, I'm taking two. Correll Buckhalter showed Dallas what a "change of pace" nightmare he can be; especially in the passing game as of late. Meanwhile, A$$ante $amuel needs to earn a few more of those $$$ back A$AP.
"One of a Kind...for better or WORSE"
#7. (9-7) Dallas Cowboys
Comment: The biggest off-season train wreck resides in Dallas (sorry Favre & Jet haters). Not only is there the issue of Wade "The Babe" and Jason Garrett's futures, but you also get to deal with TO, the never-ending Romo-saga, and the same December questions that continue to plague this franchise. 1996 was their last playoff win. Man, that seems so long ago...
Guy to Watch: TO. Of course.
..."The Others"...
#8. (9-7) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Comment: John Gruden, Jeff Garcia, and the entire organization should be ashamed for losing at home to the Oakland Raiders. Half this roster is out the door and Monte Kiffin is leading the way. One word: regression.
Guy to Watch: The next QB added to this "rotation". Good luck.
#9. (9-7) Chicago Bears
Comment: Kyle Orton may be the future of this franchise at QB; however, the only "skill players" worth feeling confident are Matt Forte and (probably) Greg Olsen. This team needs to unearth a playmaker or two in the upcoming draft, somehow and someway.
Guy to Watch: Is it me or was Brian Urlacher missing this season?
#10. (8-8) Washington Redskins
Comment: Starting 6-2 becomes null and void when you finish 2-6. The real question becomes: is Jason Campbell the QB of the future? You better find out real soon, Mr. Snyder.
Guy to Watch: How soon can Jason Taylor exit the Redskin roster?
#11. (8-8) New Orleans Saints
Comment: Picking up also-rans (McKenzie, Fujita, Vilma, Shockey) isn't working. Meanwhile, what is going on with the RB position - even without Deuce in the mix after this year - and when will this defense be able to stop a JV offense, no less an NFL-one.
Guy to Watch: Is the Jeremy Shockey-experience over already?
..."The Other Others"...
#12. (7-9) San Francisco 49ers
Comment: Mike Singletary put this team on his back and they went 7-9. Kudos. But I gotta ask: what happens when they no longer "sneak up on people", is Shaun Hill their future QB, can Frank Gore stay healthy, and is Mike Martz still have any "genius" left in him?
Guy to Watch: In case you couldn't tell, I'm wondering where Shaun Hill is on the depth chart before Week 1 next season?
#13. (6-10) Green Bay Packers
Comment: Backward steps to say the least. BIG ONES. Rogers seems fine; however, this team too easily slipped to 6-10. What is to be done for a team that likely overachieved in '07 to reach 3-13, yet drastically underproduced its way to double-digit losses in '08?
Guy to Watch: Was giving all that money to Ryan Grant a big mistake?
..."How the 'Mighty' Have Fallen..."
#14. (4-12) Seattle Seahawks
Comment: The team got injured and old all in the same season. Dangerous duo in all the wrong ways. By the way, how stupid does that Deion Branch-deal continue to look???
Guy to Watch: By the way, how much longer is Matt Hasselbeck going to be able to stand up right for more than 10 games in a season, new head coach Jim Mora Jr? What if he can't any longer?
...And then there's "THEM"...
#15. (2-14) St. Louis Rams
Comment: Players L-O-V-E "player-friendly coaches" like Jim Haslett. Duh. But how much do players love losing their last 10 games in a season and appearing to have little to nothing in the pipeline for the future (sorry, Chris Long)?
Guy to Watch: Is Tory Holt much longer for St. Louis?
..."0-16 says it ALL"...
#16. (0-16) Detroit Lions
Comment: I made a real mistake last season thinking the Falcons (post-Vick) were the ugliest situation in football. Motown is in mourning over their "football" franchise. 0-16 shouldn't be wished upon any players or fans. Not even those surviving the post-Millen "Era of Shame" in Detroit.
Guy to Watch: Whichever future #1 overall pick (likely a QB) gets his career ruined next by this franchise. Beware Sam Bradford and Matthew Stafford.
I thought I'd hand out some hardware, but I'll save that for later.
AFC coming soon...
Let's get a few things straight...
This is the guy - for me, at least - who will have the most to do with who ends up representing the NFC in the Super Bowl this season.Credit: Yahoo! Sports
NFC
..."The Guys You DREAM about Being"...
#1. (12-4) New York Giants
Comment: Despite the Plaxico-incident, Jacobs missing two weeks/being banged up for a month, and the difficult task of defending a championship...the G-Men remain the team to beat in the NFC as the #1-seed.
Guy to Watch: Brandon Jacobs. Eli is the epicenter of this team; however, this season - unlike last year's playoff team - hinged on the ability of their monster back to brutalize defenses in the first half. 3 more dominant efforts and they may very well again hoist the Lombardy Trophy.
#2. (12-4) Carolina Panthers
Comment: 12-4 is a lot easier when you're undefeated (8-0) at home, which is exactly where the Panthers will be in the Divisional Round in two weeks. Plenty of rest for DeAngelo Williams (1515 yards and 20 total TDs) and company.
Guy to Watch: Steve Smith has more ability than any receiver his size. In fact, it's not even close. He's got to have his head straight and his legs ready to burst through secondaries throughout January. He'll need to carry this team - even more than Williams/Stewart - late in close playoff (potential shootout) games.
..The Guys Everyone Else WISHES to Be"...
#3. (10-6) Minnesota Vikings
Comment: Don't forget what Gus Frerrote did for this team; however, Tavaris Jackson did just enough to lock up the NFC North and a home playoff game for the Vikes. The health of Pat Williams and their psyche against a dangerous Philadelphia team loom ominous. By the way, welcome to the NFL Playoffs Adrian Peterson.
Guy to Watch: Tavaris and A-Pete are the easy gets. I'm watching to see if Bernard Berrian can continue his recent torrid month and prove the contract was well worth it. His speed dramatically changes games downfield.
#4. (9-7) Arizona Cardinals
Comment: As ugly a 9-7 team you've ever seen, they still won their division for the first time since Kennedy was in the Whire House AND will host an actual playoff game.
Guy to Watch: Darnell Dockett is the only defender - outside possibly Wilson/Rolle - who defenses gameplan against. Michael Turner can't be allowed to easily pass through the guard and tackle spots or this game will be well over before the first half ends.
#5. (11-5) Atlanta Falcons
Comment: At the beginning of the season (or even the mid-way point), if you had the Falcons at 11-5 and a favorite in their opening playoff game...you need to hit up Cesar's Palace immediately. This team is playing with house money. Enjoy watching 'em.
Guy to Watch: John Abraham has shut it down in previous playoff games, going as far to not even suit up. He'll need to be all over Kurt Warner next weekend...or the Falcons won't leave Arizona victors.
#6. (9-6-1) Philadelphia Eagles
Comment: Somehow, the tie-game didn't come back to bite them. Meanwhile, Andy Reid and Donovan F. McNabb are playoff bound yet again. Don't look now Giant fans, but the Iggles might be coming to town in two weeks. Look out.
Guy to Watch: We all know how Brian Westbrook makes this team go. I got it. Instead, I'm taking two. Correll Buckhalter showed Dallas what a "change of pace" nightmare he can be; especially in the passing game as of late. Meanwhile, A$$ante $amuel needs to earn a few more of those $$$ back A$AP.
"One of a Kind...for better or WORSE"
#7. (9-7) Dallas Cowboys
Comment: The biggest off-season train wreck resides in Dallas (sorry Favre & Jet haters). Not only is there the issue of Wade "The Babe" and Jason Garrett's futures, but you also get to deal with TO, the never-ending Romo-saga, and the same December questions that continue to plague this franchise. 1996 was their last playoff win. Man, that seems so long ago...
Guy to Watch: TO. Of course.
..."The Others"...
#8. (9-7) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Comment: John Gruden, Jeff Garcia, and the entire organization should be ashamed for losing at home to the Oakland Raiders. Half this roster is out the door and Monte Kiffin is leading the way. One word: regression.
Guy to Watch: The next QB added to this "rotation". Good luck.
#9. (9-7) Chicago Bears
Comment: Kyle Orton may be the future of this franchise at QB; however, the only "skill players" worth feeling confident are Matt Forte and (probably) Greg Olsen. This team needs to unearth a playmaker or two in the upcoming draft, somehow and someway.
Guy to Watch: Is it me or was Brian Urlacher missing this season?
#10. (8-8) Washington Redskins
Comment: Starting 6-2 becomes null and void when you finish 2-6. The real question becomes: is Jason Campbell the QB of the future? You better find out real soon, Mr. Snyder.
Guy to Watch: How soon can Jason Taylor exit the Redskin roster?
#11. (8-8) New Orleans Saints
Comment: Picking up also-rans (McKenzie, Fujita, Vilma, Shockey) isn't working. Meanwhile, what is going on with the RB position - even without Deuce in the mix after this year - and when will this defense be able to stop a JV offense, no less an NFL-one.
Guy to Watch: Is the Jeremy Shockey-experience over already?
..."The Other Others"...
#12. (7-9) San Francisco 49ers
Comment: Mike Singletary put this team on his back and they went 7-9. Kudos. But I gotta ask: what happens when they no longer "sneak up on people", is Shaun Hill their future QB, can Frank Gore stay healthy, and is Mike Martz still have any "genius" left in him?
Guy to Watch: In case you couldn't tell, I'm wondering where Shaun Hill is on the depth chart before Week 1 next season?
#13. (6-10) Green Bay Packers
Comment: Backward steps to say the least. BIG ONES. Rogers seems fine; however, this team too easily slipped to 6-10. What is to be done for a team that likely overachieved in '07 to reach 3-13, yet drastically underproduced its way to double-digit losses in '08?
Guy to Watch: Was giving all that money to Ryan Grant a big mistake?
..."How the 'Mighty' Have Fallen..."
#14. (4-12) Seattle Seahawks
Comment: The team got injured and old all in the same season. Dangerous duo in all the wrong ways. By the way, how stupid does that Deion Branch-deal continue to look???
Guy to Watch: By the way, how much longer is Matt Hasselbeck going to be able to stand up right for more than 10 games in a season, new head coach Jim Mora Jr? What if he can't any longer?
...And then there's "THEM"...
#15. (2-14) St. Louis Rams
Comment: Players L-O-V-E "player-friendly coaches" like Jim Haslett. Duh. But how much do players love losing their last 10 games in a season and appearing to have little to nothing in the pipeline for the future (sorry, Chris Long)?
Guy to Watch: Is Tory Holt much longer for St. Louis?
..."0-16 says it ALL"...
#16. (0-16) Detroit Lions
Comment: I made a real mistake last season thinking the Falcons (post-Vick) were the ugliest situation in football. Motown is in mourning over their "football" franchise. 0-16 shouldn't be wished upon any players or fans. Not even those surviving the post-Millen "Era of Shame" in Detroit.
Guy to Watch: Whichever future #1 overall pick (likely a QB) gets his career ruined next by this franchise. Beware Sam Bradford and Matthew Stafford.
I thought I'd hand out some hardware, but I'll save that for later.
AFC coming soon...
Game On
After our 1pm games, we know the following:
IN: Minnesota
OUT: Tampa Bay (winners of the Denny Green Award), Chicago, New York Jets
In the NFC, all teams and seeds have been figured out. The Dallas/Philadelphia game is now a playoff game.
#1: NY Giants
#2: Carolina
#3: Minnesota
#4: Arizona
#5: Atlanta
#6: Dallas/Philadelphia
The AFC is slightly more muddled.
#1: Tennessee
#2: Pittsburgh
#3: New England/Miami
#4: Denver/San Diego
#5: Indianapolis
#6: Baltimore/New England/Miami (?)
If Baltimore and Miami, then New England will be the first 11-5 team to not make the playoffs since the expansion of playoffs to six teams from each conference. And Clement will have something to hang his hat on.
IN: Minnesota
OUT: Tampa Bay (winners of the Denny Green Award), Chicago, New York Jets
In the NFC, all teams and seeds have been figured out. The Dallas/Philadelphia game is now a playoff game.
#1: NY Giants
#2: Carolina
#3: Minnesota
#4: Arizona
#5: Atlanta
#6: Dallas/Philadelphia
The AFC is slightly more muddled.
#1: Tennessee
#2: Pittsburgh
#3: New England/Miami
#4: Denver/San Diego
#5: Indianapolis
#6: Baltimore/New England/Miami (?)
If Baltimore and Miami, then New England will be the first 11-5 team to not make the playoffs since the expansion of playoffs to six teams from each conference. And Clement will have something to hang his hat on.
5 NFL Questions -- Week 17
The networks have dominated the asking of these questions today and done a better job than usual. I'll try to tackle an angle or other questions altogether.
- Which coach needs a win today more than anyone else?
- Which coach whose team is currently in playoff position (but not yet clinched) at risk of losing his job if his team loses today?
- Will Rod Marinelli empty the playbook to avoid history?
- If the Patriots lose in the 1pm game and Brett Favre has an early case of the "dead arm", would Eric Mangini give him the hook to save the season?
- How will Dallas D come out after giving up two 70+ yard runs in the closing minutes of their last contest?
Saturday, December 27, 2008
NCAA Tournament Bracket Projections - December 27, 2008
It has been a long time since I had an opportunity to do a set of projections (and predictions), so I have taken advantage of this extended holiday period. As expected,
Because we use the projection/prediction model, there are some picks that are off putting to say the least.
One is
The other is USC among the last four. The Trojans have done exactly squadoosh to justify an at-large bid. Nevertheless, USC storms and norms until mid-January under Tim Floyd. Because of attrition related to recruiting practices (i.e. possessing an utter willingness to take on one-year players), it takes a while for his new players to learn how to defend well. That said, do not be surprised if they come out as the #3 team out of the PAC 10.
If you have any questions, comments, or just wish to send a shout, shoot me a line at phashemi@gmail.com.
The Seedings
1:
2: Duke (ACC),
3: Gonzaga (WCC), Notre Dame, Purdue (Big Ten),
4:
5:
6: Villanova, Davidson, Xavier (A-10),
7: Miami-FL, Baylor,
8: St. Mary’s, UNLV (Mountain West),
9: Creighton (MVC),
10:
11:
12:
13: VCU (CAA),
14:
15: American (Patriot), Cornell (Ivy),
16: Pacific (Big West), Hampton (MEAC),
Last Four In:
Last Four Out:
Next Four Out:
Seeding Summary (Multi-Bid Conferences Only in Order of Percentage)
Big Ten: 7/11
ACC: 7/12
Big East: 9/16
Big XII: 5/12
Pac-10: 4/10
SEC: 3/12
West Coast: 2/8
Mountain West: 2/9
Horizon: 2/10
A-10: 2/14
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Clement's Weekly Picks & Prognostications...Week 17
So it's come down to this.
For those of you not jumping off the ledge, you should be fantasy-free (no true league has anything going on in Week 17) and the official stretch-drive to the playoffs ends (or does it truly begin) this weekend.
Best of luck to all of you on the "playoff" bubble.
Except for Pats fans, of course.
Let's cut the politicking (is that a word?) and jump into the fun!!!
I'm not picking the Lions game. To be honest, even I'm not rooting for them to go 0-16.
That, my friends, is the ultimate pitty.
Credit: New York Times
NFL Picks: 41-30 [Pretty terrible at 58% success, even if they aren't the "gimmes". Terrible, indeed.]
Upset Special: 14-11 [This record was once close to 5-10, so the 3-0 weekend deserves a BOO YA.]
New England Patriots @ Buffalo Bills (+6.5)
Sadly, we won't get to see JP LOSS-man's smiling face on the bench this week.
Credit: DayLife.com
New England smells the playoffs and knows it can put a TON of pressure on the Dolphins. Interestingly, both Miami and the Jets should know the final of this game before their kickoff. How much of an impact that is scares me. Pats in a ROUT. I'm talking 30+ point-W.
Dallas Cowboys @ Philadelphia Eagles (-1 1/2)
Is Armin's old "draft-day" man crush ready to be a Week 17 factor? Armin???
Credit: Google Images
This is a tough game as both teams took major steps backwards. Duh, Clement. Anyways, I'm less inclined to penalize Philly because they were overachieving a bit and the Redskin D has been stout all season. Dallas ran into an angry Baltimore team and it's pass rush didn't seem too affected. While McNabb will obviously be under constant pressure, I wonder if the Dallas O - especially without a 100% Marion Barber III - can click enough in hostile Philly to earn the W and thus a playoff spot. The soap opera won't end...yet. Dallas wins somehow, someway.
Chicago Bears @ Houston Texas (-3)
The only beards worse than Kyle Orton's...maybe.
Credit: MissionCalifornia.com
Houston can finish out the season in style, but they've done that before. Meanwhile, Chicago has to avoid scoreboard watching with the Vikes playing a resting-Giant squad also at 1pm. Somehow, I see Hester making a big play or two and the Bears playing inspired football. Even if it leads to no playoff reward.
Washington Redskins @ San Francisco 49ers (-3)
We need to see more coaching - and less talking about his "master motivating" - before I get sick.
Credit: ESPN.go.com
Singletary appears ready to lock up with the Niners for a few years; meanwhile, Zorn appears to have at least one more year in San Fran. I see Portis and Campbell playing for nothing but pride (maybe contract $$$ for Campbell) and the Skins eeking out a road W.
Jacksonville Jaguars @ Baltimore (-12 1/2)
Mr. Garrard. All Jet fans pray the game's lasting moments this weekend aren't like last week's.
Credit: Yahoo! Sports
Ravens roll, but not by 13+. The Jags will attempt to grind it out and make a statement for next year. Spoiling the Ravens' season might be the perfect offseason "bright spot" for an otherwise depressing season.
Miami Dolphins @ NY Jets (-2 1/2)
So what's the over/under on Clemens taking 1 snap?
Credit: CNNSI.com
Jets lose and the fans may cry S-U-C-K. I wouldn't be surprised to see Kellen Clemens take some snaps, even before the 4th quarter. The Jets can't pressure the QB, force turnovers, or drive downfield (outside of the first drive). Unless they have a pick-six (or two) in mind, Miami is winning the AFC East. Who'd have thunk that one?
Denver Broncos @ San Diego Chargers (-9)
Seriously, where has AC been this season? WHERE!?!?
Credit: Google Images
Call me crazy, but I don't see a San Diego 35-10 victory. Of course, winning by even 10 is likely. Thus this tricky spread. Nevertheless, I won't call for the Denver road upset; however, I suspect San Diego will be complacent in the 1st half and then win in the 2nd. I'd feel so much better if this spread were 10...
Best of luck to all this Sunday. Even if the "playoffs" for you will be nothing more than NFL Draft prep...
For those of you not jumping off the ledge, you should be fantasy-free (no true league has anything going on in Week 17) and the official stretch-drive to the playoffs ends (or does it truly begin) this weekend.
Best of luck to all of you on the "playoff" bubble.
Except for Pats fans, of course.
Let's cut the politicking (is that a word?) and jump into the fun!!!
I'm not picking the Lions game. To be honest, even I'm not rooting for them to go 0-16.That, my friends, is the ultimate pitty.
Credit: New York Times
NFL Picks: 41-30 [Pretty terrible at 58% success, even if they aren't the "gimmes". Terrible, indeed.]
Upset Special: 14-11 [This record was once close to 5-10, so the 3-0 weekend deserves a BOO YA.]
New England Patriots @ Buffalo Bills (+6.5)
Sadly, we won't get to see JP LOSS-man's smiling face on the bench this week.Credit: DayLife.com
New England smells the playoffs and knows it can put a TON of pressure on the Dolphins. Interestingly, both Miami and the Jets should know the final of this game before their kickoff. How much of an impact that is scares me. Pats in a ROUT. I'm talking 30+ point-W.
Dallas Cowboys @ Philadelphia Eagles (-1 1/2)
Is Armin's old "draft-day" man crush ready to be a Week 17 factor? Armin???Credit: Google Images
This is a tough game as both teams took major steps backwards. Duh, Clement. Anyways, I'm less inclined to penalize Philly because they were overachieving a bit and the Redskin D has been stout all season. Dallas ran into an angry Baltimore team and it's pass rush didn't seem too affected. While McNabb will obviously be under constant pressure, I wonder if the Dallas O - especially without a 100% Marion Barber III - can click enough in hostile Philly to earn the W and thus a playoff spot. The soap opera won't end...yet. Dallas wins somehow, someway.
Chicago Bears @ Houston Texas (-3)
The only beards worse than Kyle Orton's...maybe.Credit: MissionCalifornia.com
Houston can finish out the season in style, but they've done that before. Meanwhile, Chicago has to avoid scoreboard watching with the Vikes playing a resting-Giant squad also at 1pm. Somehow, I see Hester making a big play or two and the Bears playing inspired football. Even if it leads to no playoff reward.
Washington Redskins @ San Francisco 49ers (-3)
We need to see more coaching - and less talking about his "master motivating" - before I get sick.Credit: ESPN.go.com
Singletary appears ready to lock up with the Niners for a few years; meanwhile, Zorn appears to have at least one more year in San Fran. I see Portis and Campbell playing for nothing but pride (maybe contract $$$ for Campbell) and the Skins eeking out a road W.
Jacksonville Jaguars @ Baltimore (-12 1/2)
Mr. Garrard. All Jet fans pray the game's lasting moments this weekend aren't like last week's.Credit: Yahoo! Sports
Ravens roll, but not by 13+. The Jags will attempt to grind it out and make a statement for next year. Spoiling the Ravens' season might be the perfect offseason "bright spot" for an otherwise depressing season.
Miami Dolphins @ NY Jets (-2 1/2)
So what's the over/under on Clemens taking 1 snap?Credit: CNNSI.com
Jets lose and the fans may cry S-U-C-K. I wouldn't be surprised to see Kellen Clemens take some snaps, even before the 4th quarter. The Jets can't pressure the QB, force turnovers, or drive downfield (outside of the first drive). Unless they have a pick-six (or two) in mind, Miami is winning the AFC East. Who'd have thunk that one?
Denver Broncos @ San Diego Chargers (-9)
Seriously, where has AC been this season? WHERE!?!?Credit: Google Images
Call me crazy, but I don't see a San Diego 35-10 victory. Of course, winning by even 10 is likely. Thus this tricky spread. Nevertheless, I won't call for the Denver road upset; however, I suspect San Diego will be complacent in the 1st half and then win in the 2nd. I'd feel so much better if this spread were 10...
Best of luck to all this Sunday. Even if the "playoffs" for you will be nothing more than NFL Draft prep...
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Inside the Box Scores
Let's start with last night's shocker with Portland State prevailing over Gonzaga. Portland State outshot, outrebounded and outassisted (is that a word?) the Zags. It's not something you expect considering the height advantage that Gonzaga has over Portland State. If you didn't know who Jeremiah Dominguez is, you know now. The pint-sized point nailed 7 of 10 from beyond the arc and was a thorn in the side of the slumping Zags.
The tussle between Texas and Wisconsin told us a few things. If you protect the ball and shoot the ball from deep, you can stay in a game but you will not necessarily win. Ultimately, Texas outhustled Wisconsin on the boards and won the game behind huge games from Damion James (18 and 15) and Gary Johnson (16 and 8). What on earth is wrong with Connor Atchley?
Illinois categorically dominated Missouri in their annual rivalry matchup. The Illini shot 57% from the field, 44% from 3-point range, doubled the Tigers in assists and outrebounded the opposition by seven. Meachem and McCarney will get the kudos, but senior point guard Chester Frazier had eight assists, six caroms, and three steals but only two turnovers.
Gordon Hayward was a stat sheet stuffer at Xavier. Hayward, a 6'8", 180-pound freshman only made 4 field goals, but he scored 19 on the strength of 10 made free throws. Add 10 rebounds, 4 blocks, 3 steals, and you have another unearthed gem playing for Butler.
Kansas is a team in disarray, but they did have assists on 18 of their 22 field goals in a 84-67 loss at Arizona. Chase Budinger had a very quiet night, but Jordan Hill and Jamelle Horne had double-doubles.
Of all games played last night, only one team reached double digits. The UCLA Bruins (113). Has Michael Roll ever scored 25 points in a pickup game?
The tussle between Texas and Wisconsin told us a few things. If you protect the ball and shoot the ball from deep, you can stay in a game but you will not necessarily win. Ultimately, Texas outhustled Wisconsin on the boards and won the game behind huge games from Damion James (18 and 15) and Gary Johnson (16 and 8). What on earth is wrong with Connor Atchley?
Illinois categorically dominated Missouri in their annual rivalry matchup. The Illini shot 57% from the field, 44% from 3-point range, doubled the Tigers in assists and outrebounded the opposition by seven. Meachem and McCarney will get the kudos, but senior point guard Chester Frazier had eight assists, six caroms, and three steals but only two turnovers.
Gordon Hayward was a stat sheet stuffer at Xavier. Hayward, a 6'8", 180-pound freshman only made 4 field goals, but he scored 19 on the strength of 10 made free throws. Add 10 rebounds, 4 blocks, 3 steals, and you have another unearthed gem playing for Butler.
Kansas is a team in disarray, but they did have assists on 18 of their 22 field goals in a 84-67 loss at Arizona. Chase Budinger had a very quiet night, but Jordan Hill and Jamelle Horne had double-doubles.
Of all games played last night, only one team reached double digits. The UCLA Bruins (113). Has Michael Roll ever scored 25 points in a pickup game?
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Tuesday FourCast: Week 16
In recent weeks, Sum and Armin have done laps around me with creative and catchy FourCasts. I have to admit, I've done a little too much ranting - which is always much better suited for "InClement Weather" - and haven't been able to leave the kiddie pool creativity-wise.
That needs to change...I'm just not sure if I can do it today.
I'll try a theme, but as usual it's going to be a little too self-serving, cliched, and gimmicky.
Hey, it's all I can do!!!
I know...let's butcher a classic (holiday) Christmas song!!!
1) On the 1st Day of Christmas...
You know the rest. Basically, the "mother partridge" feigns injury to decoy predators from her helpless nestlings. Sounds a lot like Bill Parcells with (last year's 1-15) Miami Dolphins to me. During the offseason he set his claws into the organization and did a few things many didn't agree with: hire Tony Sporano, trade Jason Taylor, give big money to Ernest Wilford, and bring over ex-Cowboys like Anthony Fasano/Jason Ferguson. Well, all of the above worked except choice C. Nevertheless, the team is 10-5 and in total control of its playoff destiny. Parcells also had the foresight to keep Chad Pennington in the AFC East with a very manageable 2-year contract. It's been a quiet year for Parcells in Miami only in front of the microphone. His impact has been felt like an after shock on the field.
2) On the 3rd Day of Christmas...
Three turtle doves. Home Alone 2 didn't get it right; instead, it's the three theological virtues. In reference (sorta), what three NFL stars got by on their virtues - instead of their performance - to make the Pro Bowl?
A) Brett Favre had no business being invited to Honolulu, especially after the past month. Despite his team being 6-8, Phillip Rivers leads the NFL in touchdown passes AND Matt Cassell has only struggled in Blitzburgh (who hasn't?) leading his team to 10-5 with a surprisingly deft touch and quicker feet.
B) Clinton Portis was my NFL MVP two months ago and has played as bruised and battered as any back I can remember in recent memory. Nevertheless, Brandon Jacobs - despite missing two weeks - is the heart and soul of the best team in the NFL. While I love Eli, we saw what the Giants were sans-B Jacobs the past two weeks. Insert him this past week into the starting lineup and you notice how much free space Jacobs softens up for Derrick Ward (200+ yards!) in the second half and OT. DeAngelo Williams fans (20 TDs!) might have a legitimate beef too. Portis was a little too irrelevant the past five or six weeks on a team that rode him to 6-2 and then collapsed. While you can blame most of that on Zorn & Campbell, I'll take Jacobs in the Pro Bowl over Portis. This is gonna cause some HEAT!
C) John Abraham needs to be a Pro Bowler. He's stayed healthy (somehow) and has piled up 16.5 sacks and forced 4 fumbles. He is the havoc causer on an emerging Atlanta D. While it's tough to argue with the DEs taken before him, I might cost-cut Jared Allen or even Julius Peppers in exchange for the less talent-surrounded Abraham. He's done more with much less. That means Honolulu for me in a close DE-race.
3) On the 6th Day of Christmas...
The six days of creation of the world. Got it. The first six picks of the recent NFL Draft have had relatively quiet seasons. Almost too quiet. #1 overall pick Jake Long was 50/50 with Dolphin fans on draft day, yet has been a steady contributor and should be for the next 5-6 years (or more, let's not guarantee 10 yet). 2nd overall pick Chris Long has been quieted by a 2-13 team; however, has shown promise and potential at the defensive end position (played in all 15 games, 4 sacks). 3rd pick Matt Ryan - the exception to my rule and my emerging man crush - has the Falcons - yes, the Atlanta Falcons - in the NFL playoffs and somehow eligible for the NFC South division title and maybe even a first-round bye. I don't want to hear any CRAP about the first-to-worst rule in that division either. Many thought this team would struggle for decades after the Vick-debacle (like me!). Fourth pick Darren "Run DMC" McFadden has shown two things: A) An ability to play throw pain B) The need to be in a platoon or at least 2-back system. Of course, he is a RAIDER, so his career may be over with before his rookie contract ends. Fifth pick Glenn Dorsey was considered an absolute steal 24 hours after the draft; yet - especially with the trading of Jared Allen - he is all alone on a relatively talentless KC defensive front. He has 1 sack, but it isn't fair to label him after one season. Vernon Gholston came in with HUGE question marks and has struggled mightily in the Jet 3-4 system (12 tackles and 0 sacks ALL YEAR). He is quickly being labeled a bust, yet has gotten praise from LT (the real one) and will need an offseason or two before he's out of New York and a draft-day villain.
4) On the 10th Day of Christmas...
Ten Lords-a leaping. I almost forgot it was in reference to the 10 Commandments. Sounds like a good basis for fantasy football banter.
A) If Kurt Warner got you to your fantasy championship game, he sure didn't win it for you.
B) If you had a non-Ray Rice Raven RB starting, you sure loved that 4th quarter in Big D.
C) Chad Ocho Cinco better hope his name change gets him drafted next year in the first 8 rounds of most leagues.
D) Michael Turner is gonna be a top 5 pick.
E) Matt Forte is gonna be a first-round pick.
F) What in the world will people do with Steve Slaton and Chris Johnson?
G) Any chance Matt Cassell will go before/in the same round as Tom Brady?
H) Who you got: Andre Johnson or Calvin Johnson?
I) Will the Charger D be a force again with the return of Merriman?
J) Which rookie - come on Armin, help us out - will be a first 5-round pick?
I hope you enjoyed the ride. Enjoy the holidays!!!
That needs to change...I'm just not sure if I can do it today.
I'll try a theme, but as usual it's going to be a little too self-serving, cliched, and gimmicky.
Hey, it's all I can do!!!
I know...let's butcher a classic (holiday) Christmas song!!!
1) On the 1st Day of Christmas...
You know the rest. Basically, the "mother partridge" feigns injury to decoy predators from her helpless nestlings. Sounds a lot like Bill Parcells with (last year's 1-15) Miami Dolphins to me. During the offseason he set his claws into the organization and did a few things many didn't agree with: hire Tony Sporano, trade Jason Taylor, give big money to Ernest Wilford, and bring over ex-Cowboys like Anthony Fasano/Jason Ferguson. Well, all of the above worked except choice C. Nevertheless, the team is 10-5 and in total control of its playoff destiny. Parcells also had the foresight to keep Chad Pennington in the AFC East with a very manageable 2-year contract. It's been a quiet year for Parcells in Miami only in front of the microphone. His impact has been felt like an after shock on the field.
2) On the 3rd Day of Christmas...
Three turtle doves. Home Alone 2 didn't get it right; instead, it's the three theological virtues. In reference (sorta), what three NFL stars got by on their virtues - instead of their performance - to make the Pro Bowl?
A) Brett Favre had no business being invited to Honolulu, especially after the past month. Despite his team being 6-8, Phillip Rivers leads the NFL in touchdown passes AND Matt Cassell has only struggled in Blitzburgh (who hasn't?) leading his team to 10-5 with a surprisingly deft touch and quicker feet.
B) Clinton Portis was my NFL MVP two months ago and has played as bruised and battered as any back I can remember in recent memory. Nevertheless, Brandon Jacobs - despite missing two weeks - is the heart and soul of the best team in the NFL. While I love Eli, we saw what the Giants were sans-B Jacobs the past two weeks. Insert him this past week into the starting lineup and you notice how much free space Jacobs softens up for Derrick Ward (200+ yards!) in the second half and OT. DeAngelo Williams fans (20 TDs!) might have a legitimate beef too. Portis was a little too irrelevant the past five or six weeks on a team that rode him to 6-2 and then collapsed. While you can blame most of that on Zorn & Campbell, I'll take Jacobs in the Pro Bowl over Portis. This is gonna cause some HEAT!
C) John Abraham needs to be a Pro Bowler. He's stayed healthy (somehow) and has piled up 16.5 sacks and forced 4 fumbles. He is the havoc causer on an emerging Atlanta D. While it's tough to argue with the DEs taken before him, I might cost-cut Jared Allen or even Julius Peppers in exchange for the less talent-surrounded Abraham. He's done more with much less. That means Honolulu for me in a close DE-race.
3) On the 6th Day of Christmas...
The six days of creation of the world. Got it. The first six picks of the recent NFL Draft have had relatively quiet seasons. Almost too quiet. #1 overall pick Jake Long was 50/50 with Dolphin fans on draft day, yet has been a steady contributor and should be for the next 5-6 years (or more, let's not guarantee 10 yet). 2nd overall pick Chris Long has been quieted by a 2-13 team; however, has shown promise and potential at the defensive end position (played in all 15 games, 4 sacks). 3rd pick Matt Ryan - the exception to my rule and my emerging man crush - has the Falcons - yes, the Atlanta Falcons - in the NFL playoffs and somehow eligible for the NFC South division title and maybe even a first-round bye. I don't want to hear any CRAP about the first-to-worst rule in that division either. Many thought this team would struggle for decades after the Vick-debacle (like me!). Fourth pick Darren "Run DMC" McFadden has shown two things: A) An ability to play throw pain B) The need to be in a platoon or at least 2-back system. Of course, he is a RAIDER, so his career may be over with before his rookie contract ends. Fifth pick Glenn Dorsey was considered an absolute steal 24 hours after the draft; yet - especially with the trading of Jared Allen - he is all alone on a relatively talentless KC defensive front. He has 1 sack, but it isn't fair to label him after one season. Vernon Gholston came in with HUGE question marks and has struggled mightily in the Jet 3-4 system (12 tackles and 0 sacks ALL YEAR). He is quickly being labeled a bust, yet has gotten praise from LT (the real one) and will need an offseason or two before he's out of New York and a draft-day villain.
4) On the 10th Day of Christmas...
Ten Lords-a leaping. I almost forgot it was in reference to the 10 Commandments. Sounds like a good basis for fantasy football banter.
A) If Kurt Warner got you to your fantasy championship game, he sure didn't win it for you.
B) If you had a non-Ray Rice Raven RB starting, you sure loved that 4th quarter in Big D.
C) Chad Ocho Cinco better hope his name change gets him drafted next year in the first 8 rounds of most leagues.
D) Michael Turner is gonna be a top 5 pick.
E) Matt Forte is gonna be a first-round pick.
F) What in the world will people do with Steve Slaton and Chris Johnson?
G) Any chance Matt Cassell will go before/in the same round as Tom Brady?
H) Who you got: Andre Johnson or Calvin Johnson?
I) Will the Charger D be a force again with the return of Merriman?
J) Which rookie - come on Armin, help us out - will be a first 5-round pick?
I hope you enjoyed the ride. Enjoy the holidays!!!
Monday, December 22, 2008
InClement Weather: 10 Midnight Musings
First off, push aside any of your "home-grown" playoff scenarios and just go here:
You can play out ANY scenario you want and get your results. And I mean ANY.
As usual, Yahoo! Sports is the place I go to get the very best.
Look closely and you'll see my co-NFL MVPs. Yep, I said it and I meant it.
Credit: Yahoo! Sports
Here are 5 nuggets from this week and 5 more from next week...
...5 From This Week...
1) How about we eliminate the division champs from the NFC and AFC West in the playoffs? Denver is choking almost as hard as the Jets and the Bolts may sneak in behind Norv Turner of all coaches; meanwhile, the Cardinals are an absolute embarrassment. I don't care when they 'clinched', they're the easiest 1st-round out in years, even at home.
2) Nobody wants New England in the playoffs. Nobody.
3) Brett Favre is going to retire. Mark it down. Let's see how New England acts if Cassell may get courted by the Jets.
4) Matt Ryan and Michael Turner should share the NFL MVP (see above dumby!)
5) Mike Smith and Tony Sporano should share the Head Coach of the Year Award.
...5 For Next Week...
6) If the Chargers win, that sets up Indy @ San Diego in the 1st round. Who doesn't like that drama/rematch? Even I do...
7) If the Eagles beat Dallas at home, neither might be in. Why? Oakland would have to beat Tampa for Philly to get in at 9-6-1. Ditto if the J-E-T-S beat the Fish & Pennington. By the way, it's S-U-C-K now.
8) Baltimore can still get knocked out with a loss. Although they can get in without a W without too bizarre a scenario, barely.
9) With #1 locked up, do the Giants suit up a team against Minnesota?
10) If Chicago loses tomorrow night, the Vikes might not suit up a team either.
Here are a few of the "more" important scenarios to take into account:
-Denver vs. San Diego is FLEXED by NBC. The winner is the AFC's 4-seed. Lock it up.
-Dallas wins and they are in. After all these past few years have seen for the enigmatic wideout of all wideouts, TO needs to help deliver a win in Philly. Wow.
-Miami wins and they are AFC East champs and the #3 seed. Easy. If they lose, there is NO scenario for a playoff birth. NONE.
-New England could end up only the second 11-5 team to NOT make the playoffs. How? Miami & Baltimore winning (both are favored).
The real key - as I see it - is the scheduling of games. Flexing can be done by CBS & Fox as well for the 4pm slate.
But which game gets the national 4pm spotlight? Or do two?
Dallas vs. Philly has FOX written all over it; meanwhile, NY Jets/Miami is a CBS showdown. There are other options; however, I don't see any being as plausible.
The aforementioned two could be very very interesting seeing as Tampa/Oakland should be a lock for 1pm; ditto for Buffalo/New England and Jacksonville/Baltimore. OH THE DRAMA!
Just imagine if New England and B-More win; who do the Jet fans root for between them and the Phins? Seriously? While nobody ever roots for their team to lose (or do they?), will memories of Spygate remind Jet fans a loss to the Fish spells doom for the Patsies?
Note: The team would never feel that way...I hope. Pride is pride. But fans (not me...yet) have sadistic levels of thinking.
While that's playing Devil's Advocate, it's still a game you play with playoff scenarios. While I see ZERO chance of either occurring, obviously there's two ways to get in for New York's not-so-finest:
1) WIN & New England loss to JP Losman & Buffalo (yeah, sure)
2) WIN & Baltimore loss to 5-10 Jacksonville (I'm on it!)
Note: Both are home games for the Patsies and Ravens.
Of course, WINNING in the first place isn't likely. Nevertheless...
It will be as crazy a Week 17 as we've seen in years. Especially if - let's say - the Jets beat the Fins and Iggles the Cowboys (or vice-versa in that second game) and neither of the four are in.
Drama...indeed.
Good luck!!!
You can play out ANY scenario you want and get your results. And I mean ANY.
As usual, Yahoo! Sports is the place I go to get the very best.
Look closely and you'll see my co-NFL MVPs. Yep, I said it and I meant it.Credit: Yahoo! Sports
Here are 5 nuggets from this week and 5 more from next week...
...5 From This Week...
1) How about we eliminate the division champs from the NFC and AFC West in the playoffs? Denver is choking almost as hard as the Jets and the Bolts may sneak in behind Norv Turner of all coaches; meanwhile, the Cardinals are an absolute embarrassment. I don't care when they 'clinched', they're the easiest 1st-round out in years, even at home.
2) Nobody wants New England in the playoffs. Nobody.
3) Brett Favre is going to retire. Mark it down. Let's see how New England acts if Cassell may get courted by the Jets.
4) Matt Ryan and Michael Turner should share the NFL MVP (see above dumby!)
5) Mike Smith and Tony Sporano should share the Head Coach of the Year Award.
...5 For Next Week...
6) If the Chargers win, that sets up Indy @ San Diego in the 1st round. Who doesn't like that drama/rematch? Even I do...
7) If the Eagles beat Dallas at home, neither might be in. Why? Oakland would have to beat Tampa for Philly to get in at 9-6-1. Ditto if the J-E-T-S beat the Fish & Pennington. By the way, it's S-U-C-K now.
8) Baltimore can still get knocked out with a loss. Although they can get in without a W without too bizarre a scenario, barely.
9) With #1 locked up, do the Giants suit up a team against Minnesota?
10) If Chicago loses tomorrow night, the Vikes might not suit up a team either.
Here are a few of the "more" important scenarios to take into account:
-Denver vs. San Diego is FLEXED by NBC. The winner is the AFC's 4-seed. Lock it up.
-Dallas wins and they are in. After all these past few years have seen for the enigmatic wideout of all wideouts, TO needs to help deliver a win in Philly. Wow.
-Miami wins and they are AFC East champs and the #3 seed. Easy. If they lose, there is NO scenario for a playoff birth. NONE.
-New England could end up only the second 11-5 team to NOT make the playoffs. How? Miami & Baltimore winning (both are favored).
The real key - as I see it - is the scheduling of games. Flexing can be done by CBS & Fox as well for the 4pm slate.
But which game gets the national 4pm spotlight? Or do two?
Dallas vs. Philly has FOX written all over it; meanwhile, NY Jets/Miami is a CBS showdown. There are other options; however, I don't see any being as plausible.
The aforementioned two could be very very interesting seeing as Tampa/Oakland should be a lock for 1pm; ditto for Buffalo/New England and Jacksonville/Baltimore. OH THE DRAMA!
Just imagine if New England and B-More win; who do the Jet fans root for between them and the Phins? Seriously? While nobody ever roots for their team to lose (or do they?), will memories of Spygate remind Jet fans a loss to the Fish spells doom for the Patsies?
Note: The team would never feel that way...I hope. Pride is pride. But fans (not me...yet) have sadistic levels of thinking.
While that's playing Devil's Advocate, it's still a game you play with playoff scenarios. While I see ZERO chance of either occurring, obviously there's two ways to get in for New York's not-so-finest:
1) WIN & New England loss to JP Losman & Buffalo (yeah, sure)
2) WIN & Baltimore loss to 5-10 Jacksonville (I'm on it!)
Note: Both are home games for the Patsies and Ravens.
Of course, WINNING in the first place isn't likely. Nevertheless...
It will be as crazy a Week 17 as we've seen in years. Especially if - let's say - the Jets beat the Fins and Iggles the Cowboys (or vice-versa in that second game) and neither of the four are in.
Drama...indeed.
Good luck!!!
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Clement’s Weekly Picks & Prognostications…Week 16
First off, it's time for the 'excuse' as to why I didn't post on Friday.
Well, a partial dislocation of my left elbow did the trick!
Two words: not fun.
Credit: LSBU.uk
Well, a partial dislocation of my left elbow did the trick!
Two words: not fun.Credit: LSBU.uk
Two more weeks to go and the NFL season is officially white hot.
Wouldn't you know it, but both the AFC and NFC have every seed up for grabs.
(Note: The exception to the rule came true Thursday night as Indy clinched the #5-seed after defeating the Jags 31-24.)
True, several teams have clinched either a division (Tennessee, Pittsburgh, NY Giants, Arizona), a bye (Tenn & Pitt), and others just a playoff spot…wait, none of the “wild-card” are locked up yet (again, except Indy).
Interestingly enough, Carolina can win next week and clinch the #1-seed in the NFC OR lose out and potentially miss the playoffs altogether.
6-8 San Diego is alive; meanwhile, it’s possible an 11-5 Patriot team could miss the playoffs (not likely though). Even crazier is that two 10-6 teams (as opposed to just Cleveland last season) AFC teams and several NFC will likely miss the playoffs.
Imagine if the Falcons and Phins end up 10-6 and both are out of the playoff picture.
The Jets could go from 8-3 and Super Bowl contenders to 9-7 and 2 games out of the playoffs.
Skin fans have sentiments far drearier as their playoff path seems invisible, despite a 6-2 start.
You gotta love this time of year, right? NO.
It’s far too much stress I tell you. Too much!
Fortunately, you have me to kick around…as my picks have suddenly become sublimely average.
NFL Picks: 41-26 [Taking credit for the Bears W over the ‘Aints. Pay can back me up. I swear!]
Upset Specials: 11-10 [If I can get this thing to something like 16-12, it’s a respectable season.]
I’m taking each and every game that MATTERS. HONEST!
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Tennessee Titans (+1)
Chucking the Titans to the side of the road is a mistake. An even bigger mistake is noticing how the Steelers do nothing but dominate fourth quarters. With Vanden Bosch and Haynesworth already ruled out, I don’t like Titans chances for brusing up Big Ben and an underachieving Steeler rush game. Tight ends will play major factors in this game and I’ll take the veteran Pro Bowler Troy Polamalu over the emerging talent Michael Griffin at the other key position, safety. That means I’m going Steelers for the cover.
Miami Dolphins @ Kansas City Chiefs (+4)
Don’t sleep on the Phins facing a challenge this week. They play teams close and aren’t likely to blow anyone out. Problem for KC this week (and every week) is turnovers, the pistol formation stifling LJ in the redzone, and the overall lack of playmaking talent on the defensive side of the ball. Pennington won’t have that crippling 3-turnover game that allows 2-12 teams to pull upsets. Phins cruise, which means a win by 7-10. Joey Porter may have 20 sacks on the year after this game for his season tally. 2 extra INTs too.
San Diego Chargers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-3)
Not the best time for Tampa to struggle with stopping the run. Then again, LT is a shred of his former self this season. Remember the Bucs are 6-0 at home and they realize their playoff lives are on the line. A division title still remains a possibility; enhanced even more with Jeff Garcia likely back under center. While the Chargers can really put a TON of pressure on Denver (who has no gimme itself this weekend), I like the Bucs to move to 10-5 and end the Charger season across the country.
Buffalo Bills @ Denver Broncos (No Line)
Not sure what’s going on with the psyche of either team right now; however, I’m taking the Broncos to win a close one. In all honesty, I flipped a coin.
Atlanta Falcons @ Minnesota Vikings (-3)
The game is in Minnesota, so I’m taking the Vikings. You need more? A-Pete versus The Burner should be amazing. The real storyline may be Ryan & Jackson though. While I’m not sold on Tavaris, I am also not sold on the Atlanta D on the road. Vikes win, with probably a push on this 3. I'm pulling for the upset though.
Carolina Panthers @ NY Giants (-3)
Another game that screams for a push. The G-Men must improve the juice in their pass rush - despite their lack of depth this time of the season - and force Jake Delhomme to rush throws into a crowded secondary. While I don’t want to go 0-3 in consecutive weeks with the G-Men, I also don’t know if the Panthers will run all that well against the Giants. I’ll take New York’s finest football team. If DeAngelo Williams was a Pro Bowl snub, we'll know after this weekend.
[Picking Against My Own Team] Upset Special #1:
New York Jets @ Seattle Seahawks (+5)
I pissed and moaned last week and the Jets did almost everything they could to lose at home - after leading 14-3 (with the ball at midfield early in the 2nd quarter) – to the lowly Bills. Nevertheless, a win is a win. Or is it? While some Jets are talking about the lack of need for style points…I’m questioning offensive playcalling, a bland defensive scheme, zero intricacy with blitz packages, and a lack of reliance on the rush offense with the lead. Seriously, only 1 carry for Leon Washington? I’m calling for the outright upset here by the Hawks. Why? I know the Jets all too well. 8-3 was maybe the worst thing that happened to this team and coaching staff.
[Monday Night] Upset Special #2:
Green Bay Packers @ Chicago Bears (-4 ½)
Spoiler alert! Not sure why, but it will be!
[Quasi-]Upset Special #3:
Baltimore Ravens @ Dallas Cowboys (-4 ½)
Obviously, this is a VERY different game if it’s being played in Baltimore than in Texas Stadium; especially weather-wise. The health of Tony Romo may quickly come into question - especially considering the ferocity of hits the Ravens lay on opposing QBs - as without Romo the Boys are DOA. Ditto for the patience of Cam Cameron in Joe Flacco if DeMarcus Ware can get around the corner and pressure the rookie QB. If Flacco can't make big throws downfield, the Ravens won't dink and dunk their way to a road W. Two other factors really stick out: the Ravens unbalanced line and the lack of a Raven running game. One needs to help the other as the new line-formation won't do enough if it's only intention is to contain Ware on the edge. My pick is the Cowboys; however, I’m sticking with the Ravens to keep it close. Very close.
Ten Fantasy Insights/Questions on Championship Weekend:
1) If you don't have your championship in Week 16…your league stinks.
2) If you are pairing up a regular season title with a potential playoffs title, that’s awesome.
3) If you are pairing up a regular season tite, point’s lead, and a playoff title…you are awesome.
4) If you are the 8-seed playing for the playoff championship, I have two words for you: silver lining.
5) If your NFL team is out of it, I hope your fantasy team isn’t.
6) Whose your fantasy MVP: Kurt Warner, Michael Turner, Adrian Peterson, Andre Johnson, or maybe even Tony Gonzalez?
7) Whose your fantasy LAMO over the year: Tom Brady, Carson Palmer, Derek Anderson, or maybe even LT as your #1 overall pick?
8) Which rookie QB did you ride to a greater fantasy surprise: Matt Ryan or Joe Flacco?
9) Who's the #1 pick next year: Adrian Peterson or the field?
10) Is Matt Cassell a top 7-8 QB – wherever he is – next season (fantasy football-wise).
See you next week…to close out the regular season (gulp).
Friday, December 19, 2008
InClement Weather: Andy Kennedy and Ole Miss Need to Take Responsibility
[Editor's Note: This post is from Clement, who I asked to weigh in on the Andy Kennedy situation.]
It's a dicey situation. Sadly, coaches are held to higher standards than their players. It comes as no surprise - whether he's guilty of all charges or not - that he wants to talk basketball and is "upset" for his players. Obviously, he was in the wrong at some point. Only the people there will ever know the truth. As for the greater ramifications, it's sad how easily athletes, celebrities, and anyone of some sort of fame can blame issues on alcohol.
Why is it okay for alcohol to cause us to say things we might not have before, make inappropriate advances towards others, or lead us down the darkest of roads? I've been drunk in my life and it's never caused me to do anything I didn't want to. Instead, it only allowed me to have a built-in excuse. Fortunately, I've never been dumb enough to start hitting people, bursting out racial or prejudice slurs, or anything of the sort. I don't see people suddenly speaking foreign languages they learned in high school, forgetting how to use the bathroom, or other "acts" that alcohol might impair you with. It's as if you can blame this substance for you forgetting how to be a human being.
It's a dicey situation. Sadly, coaches are held to higher standards than their players. It comes as no surprise - whether he's guilty of all charges or not - that he wants to talk basketball and is "upset" for his players. Obviously, he was in the wrong at some point. Only the people there will ever know the truth. As for the greater ramifications, it's sad how easily athletes, celebrities, and anyone of some sort of fame can blame issues on alcohol.
Why is it okay for alcohol to cause us to say things we might not have before, make inappropriate advances towards others, or lead us down the darkest of roads? I've been drunk in my life and it's never caused me to do anything I didn't want to. Instead, it only allowed me to have a built-in excuse. Fortunately, I've never been dumb enough to start hitting people, bursting out racial or prejudice slurs, or anything of the sort. I don't see people suddenly speaking foreign languages they learned in high school, forgetting how to use the bathroom, or other "acts" that alcohol might impair you with. It's as if you can blame this substance for you forgetting how to be a human being.
Until the coach is cleared of charges, he should step up and take a leave of absence from coaching. If he's innocent, then that will prevail. However, I refuse to believe there is zero merit to this story.
I won't touch on the racial slurs. It speaks of an ignorance that far too many (not just Americans, mind you) hide, that is until it comes out at the darkest of times.
The story is an embarrassment to all surrounding it. Sadly, the coach will move on and like his players -and those of any major college institution - will be given similar excuses when they make mistakes that are blamed on other sources.
You need to look no further than Bobby Bowden in Florida State, Joe Paterno (they are kids...give me a break Joe Pa) in Penn State, and Jim Calhoun at Connecticut. A similar situation is brewing at Syracuse with Jim Boeheim and Eric Devendorf, although more details need to come out about the incident. Then, we can start the hate mail towards K-Fed.
Sadly, this is a sign of the time and that's the excuse people use. Apathy is growing ever more present in our society. I'm an 8th grade teacher. These kids don't care because someone has told them they don't have to. Directly or indirectly, it all comes back to one word: parents.
Or should I say, "parents".
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Another Reason to Laugh at Coach K
Over the years, Coach K has bestowed us with many gifts of unintended laughter. In recognition of the holidays, he gifted us again.
After losing to a Michigan squad they throttled just a few weeks earlier on a neutral court, Coach K decided to bench his starters in a pivotal intrastate tussle last night against Big South powerhouse UNC-Asheville.
In the Michigan game, Duke hoisted 33 from long-range and hit only 7. They only got to the free throw line a grand total of six times.
In last night's game, Duke shot 27 from behind the arc and shot 19 free throws against a far-inferior opponent (to Michigan).
If Duke cuts down the nets in Detroit, count this moment as a turning point. Being that they will not do this, count this as another hilarious PR move by Coach K. Congratulations, you made it onto SportsCenter!
The takeaway message is that Duke settles for too many deep shots, even when they are facing personnel who they can push around on the interior. This behavior is why Duke fails to hold seed in the NCAA Tournament on a perennial basis.
Duke faces Xavier on Saturday in its annual home game played in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
After losing to a Michigan squad they throttled just a few weeks earlier on a neutral court, Coach K decided to bench his starters in a pivotal intrastate tussle last night against Big South powerhouse UNC-Asheville.
In the Michigan game, Duke hoisted 33 from long-range and hit only 7. They only got to the free throw line a grand total of six times.
In last night's game, Duke shot 27 from behind the arc and shot 19 free throws against a far-inferior opponent (to Michigan).
If Duke cuts down the nets in Detroit, count this moment as a turning point. Being that they will not do this, count this as another hilarious PR move by Coach K. Congratulations, you made it onto SportsCenter!
The takeaway message is that Duke settles for too many deep shots, even when they are facing personnel who they can push around on the interior. This behavior is why Duke fails to hold seed in the NCAA Tournament on a perennial basis.
Duke faces Xavier on Saturday in its annual home game played in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Thursday's Dribbles
* Two days ago, I signed up for Basketball State. If you thought Ken Pomeroy’s site was a valuable resource, shell out the $22 per year and you will be impressed. There will be a learning curve for me in finding the meaning behind some of the more complex statistics.
* Speaking of being impressed, I love what B101 does. Their methodology, analysis, bracket projections and poll questions are top notch. If you want to know the best six games of the night, check out the six pack.
* On Monday night, Cleveland State won at Syracuse with a heave from beyond halfcourt. After the game, Clement (a ‘Cuse fan) asked how debilitating this loss was. I think it’s a bad loss, but it’s exactly that. One loss. I picked Cleveland State to win the Horizon League prior to the season, but they had no right defeating Syracuse in the Carrier Dome. If Syracuse comes out flatter than Diet Coke on Saturday night at Memphis, then the selection committee (whom I will capitalize later in the season) will see this as a negative trend heading into conference play. Add Devendorf’s impending suspension to the mix and Syracuse may fall to that 9th or 10th team in the Big East queue who may be frozen out.
* Gregg Doyel’s hate mail is the most hilarious read on the Internet. Hands down.
* I get irked when some fans are satisfied by the USA Today and AP polls. They only tell a part of the story and are skewed by preseason rankings. Here are some other rankings of relevance. Do not limit yourselves.
RPI
KenPom
Basketball State
* Speaking of being impressed, I love what B101 does. Their methodology, analysis, bracket projections and poll questions are top notch. If you want to know the best six games of the night, check out the six pack.
* On Monday night, Cleveland State won at Syracuse with a heave from beyond halfcourt. After the game, Clement (a ‘Cuse fan) asked how debilitating this loss was. I think it’s a bad loss, but it’s exactly that. One loss. I picked Cleveland State to win the Horizon League prior to the season, but they had no right defeating Syracuse in the Carrier Dome. If Syracuse comes out flatter than Diet Coke on Saturday night at Memphis, then the selection committee (whom I will capitalize later in the season) will see this as a negative trend heading into conference play. Add Devendorf’s impending suspension to the mix and Syracuse may fall to that 9th or 10th team in the Big East queue who may be frozen out.
* Gregg Doyel’s hate mail is the most hilarious read on the Internet. Hands down.
* I get irked when some fans are satisfied by the USA Today and AP polls. They only tell a part of the story and are skewed by preseason rankings. Here are some other rankings of relevance. Do not limit yourselves.
RPI
KenPom
Basketball State
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
InClement Weather: Mid-Week Musings
A few musings at 10:00pm on a cold Wednesday night...
If Eric Maynor is a lock to be a 1st-round pick...I'm going to NYC for the draft. All I wanna know is: who's coming with me? Who's coming with me man!?!?
Credit: USA Today.com
...College Basketball Season Quick Hits...
1) Can somebody explain to me how 3-time player of the year winner Ralph Sampson isn't in the (meaningless) college basketball hall of fame? No capital letters needed for a hall that won't recognize one of its greatest ever.
2) How many of Michigan's Fab 5 can you still name?
3) Who you taking: '08/'09 UNC or '90/'91 UNLV?
4) Stephen Curry and Blake Griffin need to meet again in the NCAA tournament.
5) I've been waiting way too long to see "that" Wayne Chism that showed up - and then some - against Marquette. I still think he's a Jason Maxiell-type in the NBA (impact-wise).
Gotta admit I was more than a little surprise to see an NFC Pro Bowl roster sans-Abraham.
Credit: ESPN.go.com
...Pro Bowl Selection Quick Hits...
1) I'm not crying for DeAngelo Williams or Brandon Jacobs as NFC RB "snubs".
2) I'm surprised the AFC didn't vote John Lynch in again, despite not playing a snap.
3) It's Pennington then Rivers then Cassell who should be in over Favre.
4) Assante Samuel didn't deserve that nod at all.
5) Lance Briggs was extremely deserving. Ditto for James Farrior.
Can anyone - besides Pay - name this former Heisman winner?
Credit: Google Image Search (Title of the website gives it away!)
...Bowl Season Quick Hits...
1) A realistic playoff system will never work, people. How do you expect a typical fan (ex: Trojan fan) to do a quarterfinal in the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, a semi-final in the Orange Bowl in Miami, and then a final in the Superdome in New Orleans??? You don't ask them to pick 1, 2, or even worse...try and afford all 3 games. It just won't work with 8 teams. Not in our economy or anyone's.
2) You got Paterno croaking on the field or in the press box? That isn't disrespectful either. Paterno obviously wants that to be the way he goes...in twenty years.
3) The Heisman is irrelevant. Good argument though for this year, more unmemorable: Phillies as World Series Champs or Sam Bradford as Heisman Trophy winner? One word: push.
4) The "southwest" should lose their ballots next year.
5) Turner Gill didn't automatically "deserve" the job at Auburn. He's 15-22 and I'm not sold Buffalo is becoming a major "mid-major" college football team. The hiring practices at Auburn weren't pretty though.
Were Harold Perrineau (above) and myself the only two people upset to find out Michael died in last year's season finale?
Credit: EW.com
...Pop Culture Quick Hits...
1) Wednesday nights seem a little lost without Lost. (Too bad it's moving to Thursdays)
2) Anybody else miss Perfect Strangers a little too much? TGIF?
3) Seriously, it's a toss-up between Dark Knight and Wall-E for my movie of the year.
4) Jennifer Anniston has still got it. And then some...
5) Is there a better all-time network foursome than HBO's Sopranos, The Wire, Oz, & Curb Your Enthusiasm. Chicks can sub in Sex and the City, while the new millennium might sub in Entourage.
Seriously. WATCH this show.
That's twenty thoughts that I think have passed the time.
Thoughts?
I didn't think so!
If Eric Maynor is a lock to be a 1st-round pick...I'm going to NYC for the draft. All I wanna know is: who's coming with me? Who's coming with me man!?!?Credit: USA Today.com
...College Basketball Season Quick Hits...
1) Can somebody explain to me how 3-time player of the year winner Ralph Sampson isn't in the (meaningless) college basketball hall of fame? No capital letters needed for a hall that won't recognize one of its greatest ever.
2) How many of Michigan's Fab 5 can you still name?
3) Who you taking: '08/'09 UNC or '90/'91 UNLV?
4) Stephen Curry and Blake Griffin need to meet again in the NCAA tournament.
5) I've been waiting way too long to see "that" Wayne Chism that showed up - and then some - against Marquette. I still think he's a Jason Maxiell-type in the NBA (impact-wise).
Gotta admit I was more than a little surprise to see an NFC Pro Bowl roster sans-Abraham.Credit: ESPN.go.com
...Pro Bowl Selection Quick Hits...
1) I'm not crying for DeAngelo Williams or Brandon Jacobs as NFC RB "snubs".
2) I'm surprised the AFC didn't vote John Lynch in again, despite not playing a snap.
3) It's Pennington then Rivers then Cassell who should be in over Favre.
4) Assante Samuel didn't deserve that nod at all.
5) Lance Briggs was extremely deserving. Ditto for James Farrior.
Can anyone - besides Pay - name this former Heisman winner?Credit: Google Image Search (Title of the website gives it away!)
...Bowl Season Quick Hits...
1) A realistic playoff system will never work, people. How do you expect a typical fan (ex: Trojan fan) to do a quarterfinal in the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, a semi-final in the Orange Bowl in Miami, and then a final in the Superdome in New Orleans??? You don't ask them to pick 1, 2, or even worse...try and afford all 3 games. It just won't work with 8 teams. Not in our economy or anyone's.
2) You got Paterno croaking on the field or in the press box? That isn't disrespectful either. Paterno obviously wants that to be the way he goes...in twenty years.
3) The Heisman is irrelevant. Good argument though for this year, more unmemorable: Phillies as World Series Champs or Sam Bradford as Heisman Trophy winner? One word: push.
4) The "southwest" should lose their ballots next year.
5) Turner Gill didn't automatically "deserve" the job at Auburn. He's 15-22 and I'm not sold Buffalo is becoming a major "mid-major" college football team. The hiring practices at Auburn weren't pretty though.
Were Harold Perrineau (above) and myself the only two people upset to find out Michael died in last year's season finale?Credit: EW.com
...Pop Culture Quick Hits...
1) Wednesday nights seem a little lost without Lost. (Too bad it's moving to Thursdays)
2) Anybody else miss Perfect Strangers a little too much? TGIF?
3) Seriously, it's a toss-up between Dark Knight and Wall-E for my movie of the year.
4) Jennifer Anniston has still got it. And then some...
5) Is there a better all-time network foursome than HBO's Sopranos, The Wire, Oz, & Curb Your Enthusiasm. Chicks can sub in Sex and the City, while the new millennium might sub in Entourage.
Seriously. WATCH this show.
That's twenty thoughts that I think have passed the time.
Thoughts?
I didn't think so!
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Tuesday FourCast: Week 15
The playoffs are approaching, and Week 15 kicked off what I consider the most important three weeks of the regular season. Just like any season, there are plenty of teams on the bubble going in, and Week 15 is when you start seeing the pain kick in, as teams on the cusp of the post season have their hopes crushed. Hope the Trekkies can enjoy this one.
1. Improbable AND Impossible...take that Dr. Spock!!!
This week, we saw the two best teams in the league duke it out. It's too bad the Super Bowl can't always consist of the two best teams. In my opinion the Giants and Cowboys are the best teams in the league. On one hand, you have the Giants who should be reeling from the loss of Plaxico Burress, but seem to be moving on without him. On the other hand, you have the Cowboys who were knee deep in drama with a divided locker room, and an owner questioning the Marion Barber's toughness. What makes the teams great is their defenses that, despite the final score on Sunday night, are for the most part hitting on all cylinders. The Cowboys were my preseason pick to win the Super Bowl and I'm sure I wasn't alone in that thought at that time. However, I may stand with less when I say that they are still my favorite to win it all. Hopefully they don’t make me look silly by missing the playoffs.
2. Dammit Jim, I'm a doctor, not a referee!!!
Ravens fans are not going to let this one go, but I will go on the record and say that was a touchdown. I understand the call could go either way, and I have many that will disagree with me. I saw the ball breaking the plane. I watched the replay several times, and I saw a TD. The point in question here is, can that play have been used as irrefutable evidence to change the call either way. Too close to call. I wouldn't be surprised if someone said the refs decided on a coin flip. Either way, it would be nice to see both of these teams meet in the playoffs and have the game decided in a less controversial way.
3. 19 Down, only 4 more to Chekov
The Ware Watch is in full effect. Two games left. Can DeMarcus Ware get 4 more sacks? Never thought I would cheer for a Cowboy to break an NFL record, but Strahan's faux sack record needs to fall. I never looked at Brett Favre the same after his prima-donna-ish move to be purposely sacked by Strahan which broke the previous NFL record. Ware leads a defense that is now healthy, at full strength and off any suspensions. While the Steelers defense is the favorite is ranked as the best defense in the NFL (and considered one of the best all-time), I think the Cowboys make a strong case to be 2nd at this point in the season.
4. You can beam me up now, Tony
I hope Tony Siragusa will always have a commentator/analyst job. His comment, comparing his vertical to that of Santana Moss had me nearly rolling on the floor. Goose is a funny guy, and his humorous blurbs are much welcome. On the flip-side, you get Tony Kornheiser. Get this guy out of there. He’s worse than Dennis Leary. If the NFL and their partnering networks want to reach the fan-base that’s going to keep their league atop all sports in the U.S., they can’t have old Korny making comments about the random things he talks about. Let’s keep Korny on PTI (where I can avoid him), and lets see if we can move Goose into the booth on Monday nights. I guarantee that he would be exponentially more entertaining than Korny. A Tony for a Tony.
1. Improbable AND Impossible...take that Dr. Spock!!!
This week, we saw the two best teams in the league duke it out. It's too bad the Super Bowl can't always consist of the two best teams. In my opinion the Giants and Cowboys are the best teams in the league. On one hand, you have the Giants who should be reeling from the loss of Plaxico Burress, but seem to be moving on without him. On the other hand, you have the Cowboys who were knee deep in drama with a divided locker room, and an owner questioning the Marion Barber's toughness. What makes the teams great is their defenses that, despite the final score on Sunday night, are for the most part hitting on all cylinders. The Cowboys were my preseason pick to win the Super Bowl and I'm sure I wasn't alone in that thought at that time. However, I may stand with less when I say that they are still my favorite to win it all. Hopefully they don’t make me look silly by missing the playoffs.
2. Dammit Jim, I'm a doctor, not a referee!!!
Ravens fans are not going to let this one go, but I will go on the record and say that was a touchdown. I understand the call could go either way, and I have many that will disagree with me. I saw the ball breaking the plane. I watched the replay several times, and I saw a TD. The point in question here is, can that play have been used as irrefutable evidence to change the call either way. Too close to call. I wouldn't be surprised if someone said the refs decided on a coin flip. Either way, it would be nice to see both of these teams meet in the playoffs and have the game decided in a less controversial way.
3. 19 Down, only 4 more to Chekov
The Ware Watch is in full effect. Two games left. Can DeMarcus Ware get 4 more sacks? Never thought I would cheer for a Cowboy to break an NFL record, but Strahan's faux sack record needs to fall. I never looked at Brett Favre the same after his prima-donna-ish move to be purposely sacked by Strahan which broke the previous NFL record. Ware leads a defense that is now healthy, at full strength and off any suspensions. While the Steelers defense is the favorite is ranked as the best defense in the NFL (and considered one of the best all-time), I think the Cowboys make a strong case to be 2nd at this point in the season.
4. You can beam me up now, Tony
I hope Tony Siragusa will always have a commentator/analyst job. His comment, comparing his vertical to that of Santana Moss had me nearly rolling on the floor. Goose is a funny guy, and his humorous blurbs are much welcome. On the flip-side, you get Tony Kornheiser. Get this guy out of there. He’s worse than Dennis Leary. If the NFL and their partnering networks want to reach the fan-base that’s going to keep their league atop all sports in the U.S., they can’t have old Korny making comments about the random things he talks about. Let’s keep Korny on PTI (where I can avoid him), and lets see if we can move Goose into the booth on Monday nights. I guarantee that he would be exponentially more entertaining than Korny. A Tony for a Tony.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Stay Home Next Weekend
If there's any weekend to lounge around the house and twiddle your thumbs amidst nothingness (i.e. watching sports for hours on end), it's next weekend. Last-minute Christmas shoppers ... shame on you.
My only advice is to go to the restroom after every other media timeout on Saturday.
Here's the docket:
Saturday, December 20
Duke v. Xavier, 2pm (in East Rutherford – i.e. a home game for Duke). Two of the most versatile teams in the nation face off in this one. What measures will each coach take to limit the production of the other's top player (Kyle Singler and Derrick Brown)?
Michigan State @ Texas, 2pm (in Houston). While I don't buy Jimmy Dykes's assertion that Texas is the 2nd-best team in the nation, one has to commend Rick Barnes's ability to reload after losing a top 10 pick each of the last two years. Michigan State had better bring their hard hats if they want to compete.
UConn @ Gonzaga, 4pm (in Seattle). Despite the Zags' loss last night in Phoenix to Arizona, they are still a Top 10 team. UConn welcomes Stanley Robinson back to the team. The AJ Price/Jeremy Pargo matchup will be one of great intrigue.
Davidson @ Purdue, 4pm (in Indianapolis). Purdue has the athletic bodies to match up with Stephen Curry (I assume Chris Kramer will be assigned to him), but they have yet to put it all together this season. This one may come down to the hustle plays.
Syracuse @ Memphis, 6pm. With the Devendorf suspension on the horizon, Syracuse needs to make its mark now. I finally had an opportunity to see Tyreke Evans play and I am not sure that the 'Cuse has a player who can match up with him.
Baltimore @ Dallas, 815pm. Watching the Ravens bore me to tears, but there's no denying that they have a good team. Dallas is exciting, and they're more exciting when there's drama. If Tony Romo is on his back or throwing picks, then you can expect drama. I doubt that happens after Baltimore lost a heartbreaker.
VCU @ Oklahoma, 10pm. Clement's alma mater. Hashemi's man-crush. Blake Griffin will not have a repeat of his dreadful performance against Utah. Eric Maynor is a legit 1st-round pick. Mark it.
Sunday, December 21
Liverpool @ Arsenal, 11am. The Reds are atop the table, but it's never easy to play at The Emirates Stadium. The Gunners can dive back into the top 4 with a win and a non-win by Aston Villa.
Pittsburgh @ Tennessee, 1pm. The best game of the weekend, Pittsburgh is riding high on momentum. If Tennessee is without Haynesworth, then Pittsburgh should be able to run the ball effectively.
Arizona @ New England, 1pm. Arizona is locked into either the #3 or #4 seed, so the importance of this game is more for the Patriots, who are tied with the Jets and Dolphins in the AFC East.
Philadelphia @ Washington, 415pm. If the Eagles have a game plan which includes a healthy diet of run and pass, they will win against a team that is ripping apart at the seams.
Atlanta @ Minnesota, 415pm. Minnesota is flying under the radar and dominating teams at the line of scrimmage. If they win the battle on both lines, then Tarvaris Jackson can throw the deep ball. Meanwhile, Matt Ryan is starting to hit the rookie wall.
Carolina @ New York Giants, 815pm. Even if Jacobs is back, can the Giants defense stop the running attack of Williams and Stewart? Eli will need to bring his A game and Jake Delhomme will need to be hypnotized into thinking that he's playing at home.
My only advice is to go to the restroom after every other media timeout on Saturday.
Here's the docket:
Saturday, December 20
Duke v. Xavier, 2pm (in East Rutherford – i.e. a home game for Duke). Two of the most versatile teams in the nation face off in this one. What measures will each coach take to limit the production of the other's top player (Kyle Singler and Derrick Brown)?
Michigan State @ Texas, 2pm (in Houston). While I don't buy Jimmy Dykes's assertion that Texas is the 2nd-best team in the nation, one has to commend Rick Barnes's ability to reload after losing a top 10 pick each of the last two years. Michigan State had better bring their hard hats if they want to compete.
UConn @ Gonzaga, 4pm (in Seattle). Despite the Zags' loss last night in Phoenix to Arizona, they are still a Top 10 team. UConn welcomes Stanley Robinson back to the team. The AJ Price/Jeremy Pargo matchup will be one of great intrigue.
Davidson @ Purdue, 4pm (in Indianapolis). Purdue has the athletic bodies to match up with Stephen Curry (I assume Chris Kramer will be assigned to him), but they have yet to put it all together this season. This one may come down to the hustle plays.
Syracuse @ Memphis, 6pm. With the Devendorf suspension on the horizon, Syracuse needs to make its mark now. I finally had an opportunity to see Tyreke Evans play and I am not sure that the 'Cuse has a player who can match up with him.
Baltimore @ Dallas, 815pm. Watching the Ravens bore me to tears, but there's no denying that they have a good team. Dallas is exciting, and they're more exciting when there's drama. If Tony Romo is on his back or throwing picks, then you can expect drama. I doubt that happens after Baltimore lost a heartbreaker.
VCU @ Oklahoma, 10pm. Clement's alma mater. Hashemi's man-crush. Blake Griffin will not have a repeat of his dreadful performance against Utah. Eric Maynor is a legit 1st-round pick. Mark it.
Sunday, December 21
Liverpool @ Arsenal, 11am. The Reds are atop the table, but it's never easy to play at The Emirates Stadium. The Gunners can dive back into the top 4 with a win and a non-win by Aston Villa.
Pittsburgh @ Tennessee, 1pm. The best game of the weekend, Pittsburgh is riding high on momentum. If Tennessee is without Haynesworth, then Pittsburgh should be able to run the ball effectively.
Arizona @ New England, 1pm. Arizona is locked into either the #3 or #4 seed, so the importance of this game is more for the Patriots, who are tied with the Jets and Dolphins in the AFC East.
Philadelphia @ Washington, 415pm. If the Eagles have a game plan which includes a healthy diet of run and pass, they will win against a team that is ripping apart at the seams.
Atlanta @ Minnesota, 415pm. Minnesota is flying under the radar and dominating teams at the line of scrimmage. If they win the battle on both lines, then Tarvaris Jackson can throw the deep ball. Meanwhile, Matt Ryan is starting to hit the rookie wall.
Carolina @ New York Giants, 815pm. Even if Jacobs is back, can the Giants defense stop the running attack of Williams and Stewart? Eli will need to bring his A game and Jake Delhomme will need to be hypnotized into thinking that he's playing at home.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
5 NFL Questions - Week 15
- How many players will land on IR after the Pittsburgh/Baltimore showdown?
- Who will come away with a win: The discombobulated Cowboys or the banged-up Giants?
- How will Atlanta change its defensive gameplan with Brian Griese starting in the place of Jeff Garcia?
- Did anyone else think when the season started that the Green Bay/Jacksonville matchup would have zero playoff implications?
- How many carries and yards will Adrian Peterson need to buoy the Vikings in the desert (against Arizona)?
Friday, December 12, 2008
Clement’s Weekly Picks & Prognostications…Week 14
I’m taking a week sabbatical from NFL-viewing, mainly because I’m pouting about how my 8-3 Jets have plummeted to 8-5 and there appears little hope left to Jet fans right now. Even worse, I fear it’ll be the Patsies – not the Phins – who will eventually wind up AFC East champs.
Nevertheless, my picks and fantasy “advice” won’t suffer.
Lucky you…
NFL Picks: 39-24 [These .500 weeks are killing me. Much like the ‘Aints & Iggles have all season long.]
Upset Special: 9-10 [All bets were off as soon as Trent Edwards was ruled out and JP “Loss-Man” took the starting snaps at QB.]
Glad I listened to Armin and thought of Pierre Thomas as a talented RB.
Quite the reward in my pay league last night.
How about YOU???
Credit: Yahoo! Sports
New York Giants @ Dallas Cowboys (-2 ½)
It’d be a much different week in the NFL if Dallas had walked away victorious from Pittsburgh last week. However, we can’t play that game with any success…so I’ll try and analyze why Dallas has such a favorable spread. ??? Clearly it has to be the home field advantage, desperate nature of a 8-5 team, and perhaps the “complacency” of an 11-2 team. I’m not buying any of that. The G-Men are a better coaches team and despite suspensions and injuries mounting, they’re not about to start any type of losing streak; especially within the NFC East.
New England Patriots @ Oakland Raiders (+7)
One word will summarize this game (and it won’t be upset): blowout. New England escaped Seattle with a hard fought victory and now realizes it just takes one slip from the Jets or Phins (who play in Week 17 btw) for the Pats to walk away division champs. And they will. Dammit.
San Francisco 49ers @ Miami Dolphins (-6)
This game might be close; however, the Phins are playing excellent ball. Unlike several other playoff contenders, they’ve breezed through the easier opponents. Chad Pennington protects the ball as well as any QB and the defense is played inspired football. Anybody else think they miss Jason Taylor and his perceived ego? Nope. Amazingly, the Phins will be 9-5; mainly because west coast teams can’t travel east this season. Don’t watch this game unless you’re a Mike Singletary fan. It’s all you’ll hear about…for better or worse.
Upset Special #1
Buffalo Bills @ New York Jets (-7)
Am I a bitter fan whose whinning and pinning for his team to finally win a game? Of course. Nevertheless, the weather won’t affect the Bills anymore than the Jets AND I still need to check the health of the QB situation. Jet fans want a blowout; however, this series splits way too many times (despite whom the home team is). While I’m not sure if Buffalo will win…I don’t like a team struggling as much as the Jets have the past two weeks getting a touchdown. Despite how well Thomas Jones has played this season.
Upset Special #2
Detroit Lions @ Indianapolis Colts (-17 ½)
Am I picking the outright upset? Not a chance. However, the Lions do play tough and they realize the impact of 0-16 is looming more and more. While the Colts are hot, they’re exactly torching any of their opponents. Addai and Rhodes continue to search for consistency and it appears no pair of Colt wideouts can perform well on any given weekend. Colts win,, but they are not worthy of this type of spread (even against Detroit).
Playoffs Advice in Fantasy
1) Try your best in your Consolation Bracket games. Why? It shows some fantasy insight to juggle people these weeks. Even if the game doesn’t matter, it’s always nice to gauge how you’re doing selection-wise.
2) Pierre Thomas was a very, very good start.
3) Lee Evans always plays the Jets well. Always.
4) Keep on starting John Carlson at TE.
5) Vincent Jackson isn’t a weekly start. No chance.
6) Start both Titan RBs if you have em.
7) Ryan Grant is gonna blow up this week.
8) Shaun Hill isn’t going to toss 2-TD this week. Might not even toss 1, actually.
9) Don’t start either Jet wideout or Dustin Keller.
10) Tim Hightower is a flex-play, at best.
See you next week. Hopefully not at 8-6 (but likely).
Nevertheless, my picks and fantasy “advice” won’t suffer.
Lucky you…
NFL Picks: 39-24 [These .500 weeks are killing me. Much like the ‘Aints & Iggles have all season long.]
Upset Special: 9-10 [All bets were off as soon as Trent Edwards was ruled out and JP “Loss-Man” took the starting snaps at QB.]
Glad I listened to Armin and thought of Pierre Thomas as a talented RB.Quite the reward in my pay league last night.
How about YOU???
Credit: Yahoo! Sports
New York Giants @ Dallas Cowboys (-2 ½)
It’d be a much different week in the NFL if Dallas had walked away victorious from Pittsburgh last week. However, we can’t play that game with any success…so I’ll try and analyze why Dallas has such a favorable spread. ??? Clearly it has to be the home field advantage, desperate nature of a 8-5 team, and perhaps the “complacency” of an 11-2 team. I’m not buying any of that. The G-Men are a better coaches team and despite suspensions and injuries mounting, they’re not about to start any type of losing streak; especially within the NFC East.
New England Patriots @ Oakland Raiders (+7)
One word will summarize this game (and it won’t be upset): blowout. New England escaped Seattle with a hard fought victory and now realizes it just takes one slip from the Jets or Phins (who play in Week 17 btw) for the Pats to walk away division champs. And they will. Dammit.
San Francisco 49ers @ Miami Dolphins (-6)
This game might be close; however, the Phins are playing excellent ball. Unlike several other playoff contenders, they’ve breezed through the easier opponents. Chad Pennington protects the ball as well as any QB and the defense is played inspired football. Anybody else think they miss Jason Taylor and his perceived ego? Nope. Amazingly, the Phins will be 9-5; mainly because west coast teams can’t travel east this season. Don’t watch this game unless you’re a Mike Singletary fan. It’s all you’ll hear about…for better or worse.
Upset Special #1
Buffalo Bills @ New York Jets (-7)
Am I a bitter fan whose whinning and pinning for his team to finally win a game? Of course. Nevertheless, the weather won’t affect the Bills anymore than the Jets AND I still need to check the health of the QB situation. Jet fans want a blowout; however, this series splits way too many times (despite whom the home team is). While I’m not sure if Buffalo will win…I don’t like a team struggling as much as the Jets have the past two weeks getting a touchdown. Despite how well Thomas Jones has played this season.
Upset Special #2
Detroit Lions @ Indianapolis Colts (-17 ½)
Am I picking the outright upset? Not a chance. However, the Lions do play tough and they realize the impact of 0-16 is looming more and more. While the Colts are hot, they’re exactly torching any of their opponents. Addai and Rhodes continue to search for consistency and it appears no pair of Colt wideouts can perform well on any given weekend. Colts win,, but they are not worthy of this type of spread (even against Detroit).
Playoffs Advice in Fantasy
1) Try your best in your Consolation Bracket games. Why? It shows some fantasy insight to juggle people these weeks. Even if the game doesn’t matter, it’s always nice to gauge how you’re doing selection-wise.
2) Pierre Thomas was a very, very good start.
3) Lee Evans always plays the Jets well. Always.
4) Keep on starting John Carlson at TE.
5) Vincent Jackson isn’t a weekly start. No chance.
6) Start both Titan RBs if you have em.
7) Ryan Grant is gonna blow up this week.
8) Shaun Hill isn’t going to toss 2-TD this week. Might not even toss 1, actually.
9) Don’t start either Jet wideout or Dustin Keller.
10) Tim Hightower is a flex-play, at best.
See you next week. Hopefully not at 8-6 (but likely).
Thursday, December 11, 2008
They Are Who We Thought They Were [So Far]
Coming into the 2008-2009 college basketball campaign, many media outlets (including the much-loved Blue Ribbon Yearbook) had Notre Dame tabbed as a sure-fire Top 5 outfit. From the outset, we have been apprehensive about the Fighting Irish as a Final Four team.
Certainly, the Irish have the best set of shooters assembled on a collegiate roster this season, led by Kyle McAlarney and Ryan Ayers. Tory Jackson is a strong distributor with improved shooting faculties (but an ugly 48.5 FT% - remember that). And, oh yeah, Luke Harangody is the reigning Big East Player of the Year. Though he missed two games and was limited in two others due to a case of pneumonia, ‘Gody averages 23.0 points and 12.0 rebounds per game. The Irish run an elite, efficient offense. However, it’s the same old story in South Bend with a twist.
At Notre Dame, defense is optional and everyone knows it. Nationally, the Irish rank 133rd in FG% defense. They also do not cause turnovers (that said, they are tops nationally in assist-to-turnover ratio). When you combine the mixed bag that is the 3-point shot with questionable defensive prowess, you don’t get Final Four contender.
Here’s the unexpected twist. Last season, Notre Dame shot 73.8% (ranked 38th out 328 teams) from the free throw line. This season, the Irish make less than three of every five free throws (59.6 FT%; #308 national rank). Though the free-throw shooting woes have not ruined them in their two losses, it could burn them in a crucial game or two later in the season.
NOTE: The statistics used in this article can be found at the official NCAA website.
Certainly, the Irish have the best set of shooters assembled on a collegiate roster this season, led by Kyle McAlarney and Ryan Ayers. Tory Jackson is a strong distributor with improved shooting faculties (but an ugly 48.5 FT% - remember that). And, oh yeah, Luke Harangody is the reigning Big East Player of the Year. Though he missed two games and was limited in two others due to a case of pneumonia, ‘Gody averages 23.0 points and 12.0 rebounds per game. The Irish run an elite, efficient offense. However, it’s the same old story in South Bend with a twist.
At Notre Dame, defense is optional and everyone knows it. Nationally, the Irish rank 133rd in FG% defense. They also do not cause turnovers (that said, they are tops nationally in assist-to-turnover ratio). When you combine the mixed bag that is the 3-point shot with questionable defensive prowess, you don’t get Final Four contender.
Here’s the unexpected twist. Last season, Notre Dame shot 73.8% (ranked 38th out 328 teams) from the free throw line. This season, the Irish make less than three of every five free throws (59.6 FT%; #308 national rank). Though the free-throw shooting woes have not ruined them in their two losses, it could burn them in a crucial game or two later in the season.
NOTE: The statistics used in this article can be found at the official NCAA website.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
NBA Mock Draft - Version 1.0
The college basketball season is off to a fast start with more high-profile matchups than I can remember in recent memory. While some (BJ Mullens, Demar DeRozan, Connor Atchley) have struggled out of the gate, others (Cole Aldrich, Gani Lawal) have flourished in new, expanded roles.
As you will note, this is a 1-round draft. Please note that I have omitted a number of players. I may include them in future versions upon further research. Also, unlike MOST mock drafts, nearly all picks here are based on perceived need.
Omissions
* Victor Claver: Originally tabbed as the 12th pick to Milwaukee, Claver suffered a fracture in his left leg earlier this month. His recovery time is expected to be five months, which may thwart his ability to break into the lottery this year.
* Potential 1st-year phenoms (e.g. Jrue Holiday, Tyreke Evans, Devin Ebanks, Willie Warren, Scotty Hopson, Samardo Samuels, Tony Woods, Ed Davis, JaMychal Green, Kemba Walker, etc.): To be frank, I have not seen enough of these players (except Ebanks, who I was vastly impressed with last night against Davidson) to make a solid judgment.
So, who did I leave out? Who did I overrate?
Feel free to comment on this post or write to me (phashemi@gmail.com).
The draft order below is based on records ending on December 5, 2008.
********
1. Oklahoma City. Blake Griffin, PF, Oklahoma. The quintessential power forward, Griffin scores in bunches, fights for every rebound, plays steady man-to-man defense and goes after loose balls. Griffin takes a beating every game, so GMs will examine his health and free throw shooting with a fine tooth comb.
2. LA Clippers. Hasheem Thabeet, C, UConn. Rumors are abound that Chris Kaman is on the trade block, and Marcus Camby isn’t getting any younger. It’s a toss-up between Thabeet’s ability to block a few shots per game and alter many more versus the unfulfilled potential of BJ Mullens.
3. Washington. BJ Mullens, C, Ohio State. I don’t like this pick at all, because the Bullets (yes, that’s what I call them) invested last season’s 1st round pick on JaVale McGee. However, despite struggling early on, Mullens should improve his conditioning and begin to live up to his lofty standards. If not, don’t be surprised if the Bullets select Greg Monroe from Georgetown.
4. Minnesota. James Harden, SG, Arizona State. In a position to select the best player available, Harden is an immediate impact player at the 2. Despite being a tremendous scorer, Harden has shown unselfishness. His stock may drop as a result of limited foot speed. If Minnesota loses all patience with their point guards, Ricky Rubio is an option.
5. Sacramento. Ricky Rubio, PG, DKV Joventut. In need of a dominating force inside, there just isn’t one available at this point. Set at the SG (Martin, Garcia) and SF (Salmons, Greene) positions, the Kings go after the internationally proven floor general.
6. Memphis. Al-Farouq Aminu, SF, Wake Forest. The Grizz continue to stockpile their roster with versatile, agile players who can create mismatches at the drop of a dime. Aminu is no exception. DeRozan earns heavy consideration for this pick, though his game has been described as similar to that of OJ Mayo.
7. Golden State. Greg Monroe, PF, Georgetown. Monroe has plenty to prove, but the Warriors have to like his frame, skill set and desire. Especially after trading Al Harrington, it’s imperative for the Warriors to cultivate this youngster in the blocks.
8. Indiana. Cole Aldrich, PF/C, Kansas. I’ll admit it. When Aldrich played last season, I thought he looked lost. Furthermore, I was critical of his performance, especially at the offensive end. Though he has plenty to develop, Aldrich has been dominant on the interior and fleet of foot. This is perhaps the highest that Aldrich may be selected.
9. Charlotte. Damion James, SF/PF, Texas. The wiry James has among the best inside/outside games in all of college basketball. His ability to run up and down the floor makes him a great fit for the changing NBA. Though undersized at the 4, he has proven that he mix it up with the bigs.
10. Chicago. Demar DeRozan, SG/SF, USC. Since they are on the verge of losing Ben Gordon, the Bulls need a dynamic scorer. DeRozan can do that and much more, but he needs to become more consistent. This pick can turn into Stephen Curry if DeRozan continues to struggle.
11. New York. Stephen Curry, PG/SG, Davidson. There’s one thing I love about Mike D’Antoni. He doesn’t discriminate talent. Stephen Curry has proven against the best competition that he is worthy of playing at the next level. For a scorer, Curry’s shot selection is excellent, and he’s a better defender than anyone gives him credit for.
12. Milwaukee. Gani Lawal, PF, Georgia Tech. Lawal is still very much a raw talent. A bit of a reach, Scott Skiles may opt for an even larger reach by selecting a one-dimensional project big who is a specialist on the defensive end.
13. Toronto. Raymar Morgan, SG/SF, Michigan State. I’m no expert on the Raptors, but they lack the type of guard who can slash to the bucket, take fouls, and create easy hoops for Chris Bosh and Jermaine O’Neal. With the right coach, Morgan can be an All-Star. Earl Clark, DaJuan Summers, Tyler Smith, Sam Young or Jody Meeks may also receive consideration.
14. Philadelphia. Chase Budinger, SG/SF, Arizona. Since trading Kyle Korver, the Sixers haven’t filled the shooting void. Budinger can shoot (not like Korver) and is an offensive dynamo.
15. Minnesota (from Miami). Brandon Jennings, PG, Lottomatica Roma. At pick #15, Jennings is too good a value not to be taken. He’s a prototypical point guard, but needs to add muscle mass.
16. Phoenix. Earl Clark, SF, Louisville. Clark’s unselfish nature and ability to contribute without scoring make him a huge asset for any team. Versatility is a strength, but Clark can continue to develop his mid-range and deep game.
17. New Jersey. Gerald Henderson, SG, Duke. Henderson’s athleticism and versatility make him an asset. He’ll need to become a better shooter, but he’ll flourish in an open-court set.
18. Oklahoma City (from San Antonio). Jarvis Varnado, PF, Mississippi State. The Thunder needs a defensive presence to complement the selection of Blake Griffin. Varnado averages over 6 blocks per game despite a lanky frame and his offensive game has seen improvement.
19. Dallas. Ty Lawson, PG, North Carolina. After an injury set him back, Lawson has shown that he’s healthy. He’s not only healthy, but he’s shown commitment to defense. After JKidd is no more, Lawson has the smarts and ability to take over.
20. Detroit. Eric Maynor, PG, Virginia Commonwealth. Maynor has battled turnovers in this young season, but he can create his own shot and find teammates. A gritty defender who sometimes takes too many chances.
21. New Orleans. Tyler Hansbrough, PF, North Carolina. Known for his work ethic and will to win, Hansbrough fits into any winning team’s lineup. Psycho T will add a much-needed scoring element to the Hornets frontline.
22. Utah. DaJuan Summers, SF, Georgetown. Summers is a multi-talented wing who can do all of the essentials. Though he has yet to put it all together, Summers has shown that he’s coachable.
23. Denver. Luke Harangody, PF, Notre Dame. Though Harangody looks like, well, an unathletic white guy, he can run the floor better than most NBA players who are his size. Having an eye for the hoop, he can also rebound and shoot better than most.
24. Atlanta. Patrick Mills, PG, Saint Mary’s. Mills came onto the scene early last season against Oregon. He did superstardom in the Olympics with the Australian National Team. Precocious with a desire for improvement, Mills still can grow in shot selection.
25. Sacramento (from Houston). Patrick Patterson, PF, Kentucky. Patterson hasn’t quite shown the form he had last year prior to his season-ending injury. Though his stock has dropped since the season started, he remains one of the best players in the sophomore class.
26. Portland. Kyle Singler, SF, Duke. An excellent shooter, Singler bulked off this offseason to withstand the rigors of the ACC. If Singler continues to show muscle inside, expect him to realistically consider leaving school after this season.
27. Orlando. Jonny Flynn, PG, Syracuse. A 6’0” point guard on a good day, Flynn forgets that on the court and penetrates defenses. He shot 46% from the field last season, is up to 55% this season and took 46 free throws in his team’s four toughest games this season.
28. Cleveland. Connor Atchley, PF/C, Texas. The selection of JJ Hickson was the first step in replenishing an aging frontline. Atchley is a great fit for Cleveland, because he can place his mark on a game without having to take many shots.
29. LA Lakers. Tyler Smith, SF, Tennessee. Long, athletic and fearless. Those are the characteristics that can make Tyler Smith SEC Player of the Year and a lottery pick. What’s holding Smith back? An iffy jump shot and occasionally being too unselfish.
30. Minnesota (from Boston). Sam Young, SF, Pittsburgh. A multi-talented forward, Sam Young has shown dramatic improvement since arriving onto the scene at Pittsburgh. Despite that steady increase in productivity, Young still needs to be more judicious with the ball and shoot better from the charity stripe.
As you will note, this is a 1-round draft. Please note that I have omitted a number of players. I may include them in future versions upon further research. Also, unlike MOST mock drafts, nearly all picks here are based on perceived need.
Omissions
* Victor Claver: Originally tabbed as the 12th pick to Milwaukee, Claver suffered a fracture in his left leg earlier this month. His recovery time is expected to be five months, which may thwart his ability to break into the lottery this year.
* Potential 1st-year phenoms (e.g. Jrue Holiday, Tyreke Evans, Devin Ebanks, Willie Warren, Scotty Hopson, Samardo Samuels, Tony Woods, Ed Davis, JaMychal Green, Kemba Walker, etc.): To be frank, I have not seen enough of these players (except Ebanks, who I was vastly impressed with last night against Davidson) to make a solid judgment.
So, who did I leave out? Who did I overrate?
Feel free to comment on this post or write to me (phashemi@gmail.com).
The draft order below is based on records ending on December 5, 2008.
********
1. Oklahoma City. Blake Griffin, PF, Oklahoma. The quintessential power forward, Griffin scores in bunches, fights for every rebound, plays steady man-to-man defense and goes after loose balls. Griffin takes a beating every game, so GMs will examine his health and free throw shooting with a fine tooth comb.
2. LA Clippers. Hasheem Thabeet, C, UConn. Rumors are abound that Chris Kaman is on the trade block, and Marcus Camby isn’t getting any younger. It’s a toss-up between Thabeet’s ability to block a few shots per game and alter many more versus the unfulfilled potential of BJ Mullens.
3. Washington. BJ Mullens, C, Ohio State. I don’t like this pick at all, because the Bullets (yes, that’s what I call them) invested last season’s 1st round pick on JaVale McGee. However, despite struggling early on, Mullens should improve his conditioning and begin to live up to his lofty standards. If not, don’t be surprised if the Bullets select Greg Monroe from Georgetown.
4. Minnesota. James Harden, SG, Arizona State. In a position to select the best player available, Harden is an immediate impact player at the 2. Despite being a tremendous scorer, Harden has shown unselfishness. His stock may drop as a result of limited foot speed. If Minnesota loses all patience with their point guards, Ricky Rubio is an option.
5. Sacramento. Ricky Rubio, PG, DKV Joventut. In need of a dominating force inside, there just isn’t one available at this point. Set at the SG (Martin, Garcia) and SF (Salmons, Greene) positions, the Kings go after the internationally proven floor general.
6. Memphis. Al-Farouq Aminu, SF, Wake Forest. The Grizz continue to stockpile their roster with versatile, agile players who can create mismatches at the drop of a dime. Aminu is no exception. DeRozan earns heavy consideration for this pick, though his game has been described as similar to that of OJ Mayo.
7. Golden State. Greg Monroe, PF, Georgetown. Monroe has plenty to prove, but the Warriors have to like his frame, skill set and desire. Especially after trading Al Harrington, it’s imperative for the Warriors to cultivate this youngster in the blocks.
8. Indiana. Cole Aldrich, PF/C, Kansas. I’ll admit it. When Aldrich played last season, I thought he looked lost. Furthermore, I was critical of his performance, especially at the offensive end. Though he has plenty to develop, Aldrich has been dominant on the interior and fleet of foot. This is perhaps the highest that Aldrich may be selected.
9. Charlotte. Damion James, SF/PF, Texas. The wiry James has among the best inside/outside games in all of college basketball. His ability to run up and down the floor makes him a great fit for the changing NBA. Though undersized at the 4, he has proven that he mix it up with the bigs.
10. Chicago. Demar DeRozan, SG/SF, USC. Since they are on the verge of losing Ben Gordon, the Bulls need a dynamic scorer. DeRozan can do that and much more, but he needs to become more consistent. This pick can turn into Stephen Curry if DeRozan continues to struggle.
11. New York. Stephen Curry, PG/SG, Davidson. There’s one thing I love about Mike D’Antoni. He doesn’t discriminate talent. Stephen Curry has proven against the best competition that he is worthy of playing at the next level. For a scorer, Curry’s shot selection is excellent, and he’s a better defender than anyone gives him credit for.
12. Milwaukee. Gani Lawal, PF, Georgia Tech. Lawal is still very much a raw talent. A bit of a reach, Scott Skiles may opt for an even larger reach by selecting a one-dimensional project big who is a specialist on the defensive end.
13. Toronto. Raymar Morgan, SG/SF, Michigan State. I’m no expert on the Raptors, but they lack the type of guard who can slash to the bucket, take fouls, and create easy hoops for Chris Bosh and Jermaine O’Neal. With the right coach, Morgan can be an All-Star. Earl Clark, DaJuan Summers, Tyler Smith, Sam Young or Jody Meeks may also receive consideration.
14. Philadelphia. Chase Budinger, SG/SF, Arizona. Since trading Kyle Korver, the Sixers haven’t filled the shooting void. Budinger can shoot (not like Korver) and is an offensive dynamo.
15. Minnesota (from Miami). Brandon Jennings, PG, Lottomatica Roma. At pick #15, Jennings is too good a value not to be taken. He’s a prototypical point guard, but needs to add muscle mass.
16. Phoenix. Earl Clark, SF, Louisville. Clark’s unselfish nature and ability to contribute without scoring make him a huge asset for any team. Versatility is a strength, but Clark can continue to develop his mid-range and deep game.
17. New Jersey. Gerald Henderson, SG, Duke. Henderson’s athleticism and versatility make him an asset. He’ll need to become a better shooter, but he’ll flourish in an open-court set.
18. Oklahoma City (from San Antonio). Jarvis Varnado, PF, Mississippi State. The Thunder needs a defensive presence to complement the selection of Blake Griffin. Varnado averages over 6 blocks per game despite a lanky frame and his offensive game has seen improvement.
19. Dallas. Ty Lawson, PG, North Carolina. After an injury set him back, Lawson has shown that he’s healthy. He’s not only healthy, but he’s shown commitment to defense. After JKidd is no more, Lawson has the smarts and ability to take over.
20. Detroit. Eric Maynor, PG, Virginia Commonwealth. Maynor has battled turnovers in this young season, but he can create his own shot and find teammates. A gritty defender who sometimes takes too many chances.
21. New Orleans. Tyler Hansbrough, PF, North Carolina. Known for his work ethic and will to win, Hansbrough fits into any winning team’s lineup. Psycho T will add a much-needed scoring element to the Hornets frontline.
22. Utah. DaJuan Summers, SF, Georgetown. Summers is a multi-talented wing who can do all of the essentials. Though he has yet to put it all together, Summers has shown that he’s coachable.
23. Denver. Luke Harangody, PF, Notre Dame. Though Harangody looks like, well, an unathletic white guy, he can run the floor better than most NBA players who are his size. Having an eye for the hoop, he can also rebound and shoot better than most.
24. Atlanta. Patrick Mills, PG, Saint Mary’s. Mills came onto the scene early last season against Oregon. He did superstardom in the Olympics with the Australian National Team. Precocious with a desire for improvement, Mills still can grow in shot selection.
25. Sacramento (from Houston). Patrick Patterson, PF, Kentucky. Patterson hasn’t quite shown the form he had last year prior to his season-ending injury. Though his stock has dropped since the season started, he remains one of the best players in the sophomore class.
26. Portland. Kyle Singler, SF, Duke. An excellent shooter, Singler bulked off this offseason to withstand the rigors of the ACC. If Singler continues to show muscle inside, expect him to realistically consider leaving school after this season.
27. Orlando. Jonny Flynn, PG, Syracuse. A 6’0” point guard on a good day, Flynn forgets that on the court and penetrates defenses. He shot 46% from the field last season, is up to 55% this season and took 46 free throws in his team’s four toughest games this season.
28. Cleveland. Connor Atchley, PF/C, Texas. The selection of JJ Hickson was the first step in replenishing an aging frontline. Atchley is a great fit for Cleveland, because he can place his mark on a game without having to take many shots.
29. LA Lakers. Tyler Smith, SF, Tennessee. Long, athletic and fearless. Those are the characteristics that can make Tyler Smith SEC Player of the Year and a lottery pick. What’s holding Smith back? An iffy jump shot and occasionally being too unselfish.
30. Minnesota (from Boston). Sam Young, SF, Pittsburgh. A multi-talented forward, Sam Young has shown dramatic improvement since arriving onto the scene at Pittsburgh. Despite that steady increase in productivity, Young still needs to be more judicious with the ball and shoot better from the charity stripe.
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
Tuesday FourCast: Week 14
Not much of an intro to this week's FourCast. But I must point out that I really, really had to fight the urge of my childish mentality (equivalent to that of an 11-year old boy) which wanted me to post the video clip of Visanthe's "Shiancoe." I mean, to post a link to the obvious flub by Fox would be unprofessional and immature. Seriously, we here at PHSports consider ourselves a legitimate media outlet and would never even consider linking to a video clip at the expense of the Minnesota Tight End and his "Viking." Never.
1. Long Schaub Silver's
Matt Schaub was once regarded as a diamond in the rough. NFL scouts and analysts thought he was the second coming of Joe Montana or Johnny Unitas. Hell, Schaub received enough praise to make Beano Cook's love of Ron Powlus look like a schoolgirl crush. Of course, this was before Schaub had ever taken a meaningful regular season snap. Now that Matty has played nearly two seasons (19 games) as the Houston Texans starting QB, he has thrown for only 3 more TDs than INTs (21 to 18), and has a QB rating of somewhere in the viscinity of 89.6. Not terrible numbers ... but nothing that would lead you to believe that he'd win more Heismans than Powlus. That leads us to Sunday's game against the Packers. The Pack's defense is not a group of pushovers, especially not the secondary. Yet Schaub managed to pick that unit apart for 414 yards and 2 TDs, including a 58-yarder to Kevin Walter (chicks dig the long ball). If that's the Schaub that the NFL was clamoring about, then the Texans have a shot at a bright future. But for now, he's just as consistent as Kordell Stewart.
2. "Do women (or the Bills) know about Shrinkage?"
4-10 since 1994. 2-7 all-time in games after December 1. Those are various win-loss records of the Miami Dolphins in Buffalo. Obviously the Fins don't like cold weather. So Sunday's game at Buffalo should've provided the Bills a chance at recovering from their current slump. Even with J.P. Los"er"man starting in place of the injured Trent Edwards, that frigid upstate New York weather was going to paralyze Miami. Problem: the game wasn't in Buffalo. Huh? Ralph "A penny saved is a penny earned" Wilson was so s-m-r-t as to give away the edge the weather gave his team over a warm weather franchise and have the game played indoors?
Evidently, the Wilson's bank account isn't the only place where he needs help. Sure, I get the idea of testing out a new market for your team. Especially one that has a larger population and higher tv-viewership than Buffalo. But why not move the game against New England there? Or the Jets? Why let the "warm fuzzies" known as the Dolphins play in a stadium that's protected from the ball-freezing weather in Buffalo in December? It makes no sense. Sorry Buffalo fans, but this decision by your team's ownership was "wide right."
3. Is That a Concealed Handgun in Plaxico's Pocket? Or Are You Just Happy to See Me?
Back in the pre-season, I declared that the New York Giants didn't need lots of talent at wide receiver. That statement was prompted by the Giants performance during the all-important third week of the pre-season in which Eli Manning completed seven passes to five different receivers, none of whom was named Plaxico or Amani. Last week, against the Redskins, my observation appeared to be accurate. Eli threw for 305 yards, completing 21 passes to six different receivers, all with Plaxico out due to his inability to control his piece. But this past Sunday, against the Eagles, it seemed the Giants receivered not named Burress weren't up to the task. Domenick Hixon (the same guy who caught two TDs in the aforementioned pre-season game) dropped a beautiful lob from Manning that was a surefire TD. The drops were all over the place as the receiving crew did all they could to try and prove me wrong. Unfortunately, I'm stubborn (yes, I'm hard headed) and refuse to admit that I'm wrong quite yet. I still say that Manning doesn't need Burress or an exceptional WR to make plays happen. Last week was the exception ... week 13 against the Redskins was the rule.
4. Which NFC Division Has the Stroke?
A month or so into the season, many were declaring the NFC East as the best division in football. None of the four teams had a losing record, and the only losses for any of the teams had occured within the division. Fourteen weeks into the season and still all four teams are above .500. But the same holds true for the NFC South. After the slobber-knocker between Tampa and Carolina last night, the NFC South has a combined record of 34-18 (.654). The NFC East stands firm at 33-18-1 (.644). Outside of their respective division games, the East is 24-9-1 (.721) and the South is 24-8 (.750). The difference between the two divisions is like splitting hairs. In two weeks the current division leaders will meet as the Giants (11-2) will face the Panthers (10-3) in a game that will determine the #1 seed in the NFC playoffs. Not to take away from the NFC East's achievements thus far, because the combined win-loss record of those four teams is truly stellar. But, perhaps, self-proclaimed sports-gurus were a bit too quick to "crown their ass."
1. Long Schaub Silver's
Matt Schaub was once regarded as a diamond in the rough. NFL scouts and analysts thought he was the second coming of Joe Montana or Johnny Unitas. Hell, Schaub received enough praise to make Beano Cook's love of Ron Powlus look like a schoolgirl crush. Of course, this was before Schaub had ever taken a meaningful regular season snap. Now that Matty has played nearly two seasons (19 games) as the Houston Texans starting QB, he has thrown for only 3 more TDs than INTs (21 to 18), and has a QB rating of somewhere in the viscinity of 89.6. Not terrible numbers ... but nothing that would lead you to believe that he'd win more Heismans than Powlus. That leads us to Sunday's game against the Packers. The Pack's defense is not a group of pushovers, especially not the secondary. Yet Schaub managed to pick that unit apart for 414 yards and 2 TDs, including a 58-yarder to Kevin Walter (chicks dig the long ball). If that's the Schaub that the NFL was clamoring about, then the Texans have a shot at a bright future. But for now, he's just as consistent as Kordell Stewart.
2. "Do women (or the Bills) know about Shrinkage?"
4-10 since 1994. 2-7 all-time in games after December 1. Those are various win-loss records of the Miami Dolphins in Buffalo. Obviously the Fins don't like cold weather. So Sunday's game at Buffalo should've provided the Bills a chance at recovering from their current slump. Even with J.P. Los"er"man starting in place of the injured Trent Edwards, that frigid upstate New York weather was going to paralyze Miami. Problem: the game wasn't in Buffalo. Huh? Ralph "A penny saved is a penny earned" Wilson was so s-m-r-t as to give away the edge the weather gave his team over a warm weather franchise and have the game played indoors?
Evidently, the Wilson's bank account isn't the only place where he needs help. Sure, I get the idea of testing out a new market for your team. Especially one that has a larger population and higher tv-viewership than Buffalo. But why not move the game against New England there? Or the Jets? Why let the "warm fuzzies" known as the Dolphins play in a stadium that's protected from the ball-freezing weather in Buffalo in December? It makes no sense. Sorry Buffalo fans, but this decision by your team's ownership was "wide right."
3. Is That a Concealed Handgun in Plaxico's Pocket? Or Are You Just Happy to See Me?
Back in the pre-season, I declared that the New York Giants didn't need lots of talent at wide receiver. That statement was prompted by the Giants performance during the all-important third week of the pre-season in which Eli Manning completed seven passes to five different receivers, none of whom was named Plaxico or Amani. Last week, against the Redskins, my observation appeared to be accurate. Eli threw for 305 yards, completing 21 passes to six different receivers, all with Plaxico out due to his inability to control his piece. But this past Sunday, against the Eagles, it seemed the Giants receivered not named Burress weren't up to the task. Domenick Hixon (the same guy who caught two TDs in the aforementioned pre-season game) dropped a beautiful lob from Manning that was a surefire TD. The drops were all over the place as the receiving crew did all they could to try and prove me wrong. Unfortunately, I'm stubborn (yes, I'm hard headed) and refuse to admit that I'm wrong quite yet. I still say that Manning doesn't need Burress or an exceptional WR to make plays happen. Last week was the exception ... week 13 against the Redskins was the rule.
4. Which NFC Division Has the Stroke?
A month or so into the season, many were declaring the NFC East as the best division in football. None of the four teams had a losing record, and the only losses for any of the teams had occured within the division. Fourteen weeks into the season and still all four teams are above .500. But the same holds true for the NFC South. After the slobber-knocker between Tampa and Carolina last night, the NFC South has a combined record of 34-18 (.654). The NFC East stands firm at 33-18-1 (.644). Outside of their respective division games, the East is 24-9-1 (.721) and the South is 24-8 (.750). The difference between the two divisions is like splitting hairs. In two weeks the current division leaders will meet as the Giants (11-2) will face the Panthers (10-3) in a game that will determine the #1 seed in the NFC playoffs. Not to take away from the NFC East's achievements thus far, because the combined win-loss record of those four teams is truly stellar. But, perhaps, self-proclaimed sports-gurus were a bit too quick to "crown their ass."
Sunday, December 07, 2008
The Man-Crush Returns!
Why do you see a supersized photograph of one Blake Griffin? That's because he's been putting up supersized stats this season (playing a wildly unsustainable 36.7 minutes per game!). Though he has not put up double-digit rebounds in the last two games, Griffin still averages over 17 rebounds. Against the likes of Purdue, Davidson, UAB and USC, Griffin tallied 25 points per game. Even after suffering a low blow against USC, Griffin buoyed his team to victory.
However, as he enters conference play and the NBA microscope (speaking of which, our first NBA Mock Draft is due to come out this week) continues to focus, Griffin must improve his free throw shooting. If he does not, we'll be hearing a new phrase about a player who is the recipient of intentional fouls.
RAKE-A-BLAKE.
Fear not, even if Griffin continues to shoot free throws at around a 60% clip, the man-crush lives on. Watch out, Utah, VCU and Arkansas!
5 NFL Questions - Week 14
Here's a more cynical version of the 5 NFL Questions.
- Can Steve Young speak any faster? Seriously.
- Will the Philadelphia Eagles bring a game plan with them to their biggest game of the year? How about running the ball for your defense's sake?
- Will the NFC South go the entire season without a road win in divisional games?
- Which QB will have a cleaner jersey - Romo or Roethlisberger?
- Excluding games involving teams from the NFC South and the NFC East, can there be a more bland set of games?
Good luck to all fantasy teams as you enter playoffs!
Friday, December 05, 2008
Clement’s Weekly Picks & Prognostications…Week 13
Several teams came down to Earth last week. Several players too.
1) Chris Collinsworth summed up what any true Jet fan knew. Never trust the Jets, even with Favre around. If they lose @San Fran, they won’t make the playoffs. Mark it down.
2) Matt Cassell isn’t Tom Brady. He also might not be worthy of $50-million. Then again, maybe the Steeler D is just THAT good. If they lose @Seattle, they won’t make the playoffs. Mark it down.
3) Arizona and Kurt Warner aren’t legitimate playoff contenders. Look at their losses. Beating Dallas at home isn’t enough anymore. If they want any respect, they better travel to New England in a few weeks and pull off a total shocker.
4) Pick your poison as to who’s more disappointing in ’08: San Diego or Jacksonville?
5) Who in the WORLD is the MVP: Peyton Manning or Eli Manning? Or is it…Matt Ryan???
NFL Picks: 37-22 [Not my best week at 2-3. Far from my worst, too.]
Upset Special: 9-10 [A winning record is just 2 games away. 2 games…]
Crazy as it seems, Chad Pennington may garner some MVP-consideration if the Phins are playoff bound. Seriously.
Credit: Yahoo! Sports
Atlanta Falcons @ New Orleans Saints (-3)
It’s no secret that the Falcons are a completely different team away from the Georgia Dome. Or are they? Despite traveling back from the West Coast – with a victory over the “Not so Super” Chargers might I add – I’m taking MVP-candidate Matt Ryan and the Falcons to tab a huge W. By the way, if the Falcons make the playoffs, Ryan should be the NFL MVP. Seriously.
Philadelphia Eagles @ NY Giants (-8)
Unlike their last meeting – in which the Iggles inexplicably were favored by 3 points – the G-Men are getting plenty of respect (this time from Vegas!). Despite potential distractions to defensive-captain Antonio Pierce (regarding Plaxico aka Cheddar Bob), I like the G-Men to make their move to 12-1 and potentially lock up rest 3 straight weeks before their first playoff game. However, I don’t like it by 8. Maybe it’s a late “fluff” TD (shout out to Jeramy) or a close game. Either way, I’m taking the 8.
Dallas Cowboys @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-3)
Don’t underestimate the rest the ‘Boys got after winning big on Turkey Day. Ditto for the confidence the Steelers have after beating down the Pats in the second-half in Foxboro. If Ward/Holmes can become bigger factors, the road to the Super Bowl goes through the Steelers. James Harrison and Lamar Woodley will cause too many trouble to a still-suspect Cowboy O-Line. It might hit the 3 on the head; however, unless Romo really is the NFL MVP, I like the Steelers to move to 10-3, possibly by 10…or 3.
Washington Redskins @ Baltimore Ravens (off)
You won’t find many spread on this game…YET. Nevertheless, I’ll treat it as a pick’em. I like rookie QBs (i.e. Flacco) at home a lot more than on the road. What’s the key to beating the Skins? Stop Portis and the rush attack. While Campbell is due for a breakout, it won’t be against this defense. I’m taking the Ravens. By the way, it’s WAY too under the radar what a free agent bust Jason Taylor has been. He might be the weakest trade-acquisition this side of Troy Williamson.
Upset Special #1
Miami Dolphins @ Buffalo Bills (-1)
Somebody explain to me please why this game is in Toronto? While it depends solely on the health of Trent Edwards, I’m going to call out an upset here. Could it be I don’t want the Phins (and Pats) in a three-way tie with the Jets at the end of the week? Of course. Nevertheless, Buffalo might be tricky here; especially if the weather can be any sort of factor.
10 Fantasy Playoff Insights
***Anyone with a bye is in a fraud fantasy league. Or maybe a 12-team league that allows too many people in.***
1) Who's going to be Vincent Jackson on Sunday?
2) Coles and Cotchery are starting to really hurt fantasy owners at the wideout position.
3) Start John Carlson. No questions asked.
4) Matt Cassel isn't Billy Volek from a few years ago. You better start him though.
5) Tim Hightower shouldn't be starting, even in a flex spot.
6) Derrick Ward is still worthy of a flex spot-start.
7) If you can decide how to manage your Seahawk wide receivers, you're spending too much time dissecting your fantasy roster.
8) Don't start Cadillac Williams yet.
9) Bernard Berrian won't catch another 99-yard TD; however, he will catch a TD or two this weekend. Bet on it.
10) Darren Sproles proved Thursday night that he's a relevant playoff fantasy starter right now.
See you next week!
1) Chris Collinsworth summed up what any true Jet fan knew. Never trust the Jets, even with Favre around. If they lose @San Fran, they won’t make the playoffs. Mark it down.
2) Matt Cassell isn’t Tom Brady. He also might not be worthy of $50-million. Then again, maybe the Steeler D is just THAT good. If they lose @Seattle, they won’t make the playoffs. Mark it down.
3) Arizona and Kurt Warner aren’t legitimate playoff contenders. Look at their losses. Beating Dallas at home isn’t enough anymore. If they want any respect, they better travel to New England in a few weeks and pull off a total shocker.
4) Pick your poison as to who’s more disappointing in ’08: San Diego or Jacksonville?
5) Who in the WORLD is the MVP: Peyton Manning or Eli Manning? Or is it…Matt Ryan???
NFL Picks: 37-22 [Not my best week at 2-3. Far from my worst, too.]
Upset Special: 9-10 [A winning record is just 2 games away. 2 games…]
Crazy as it seems, Chad Pennington may garner some MVP-consideration if the Phins are playoff bound. Seriously.Credit: Yahoo! Sports
Atlanta Falcons @ New Orleans Saints (-3)
It’s no secret that the Falcons are a completely different team away from the Georgia Dome. Or are they? Despite traveling back from the West Coast – with a victory over the “Not so Super” Chargers might I add – I’m taking MVP-candidate Matt Ryan and the Falcons to tab a huge W. By the way, if the Falcons make the playoffs, Ryan should be the NFL MVP. Seriously.
Philadelphia Eagles @ NY Giants (-8)
Unlike their last meeting – in which the Iggles inexplicably were favored by 3 points – the G-Men are getting plenty of respect (this time from Vegas!). Despite potential distractions to defensive-captain Antonio Pierce (regarding Plaxico aka Cheddar Bob), I like the G-Men to make their move to 12-1 and potentially lock up rest 3 straight weeks before their first playoff game. However, I don’t like it by 8. Maybe it’s a late “fluff” TD (shout out to Jeramy) or a close game. Either way, I’m taking the 8.
Dallas Cowboys @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-3)
Don’t underestimate the rest the ‘Boys got after winning big on Turkey Day. Ditto for the confidence the Steelers have after beating down the Pats in the second-half in Foxboro. If Ward/Holmes can become bigger factors, the road to the Super Bowl goes through the Steelers. James Harrison and Lamar Woodley will cause too many trouble to a still-suspect Cowboy O-Line. It might hit the 3 on the head; however, unless Romo really is the NFL MVP, I like the Steelers to move to 10-3, possibly by 10…or 3.
Washington Redskins @ Baltimore Ravens (off)
You won’t find many spread on this game…YET. Nevertheless, I’ll treat it as a pick’em. I like rookie QBs (i.e. Flacco) at home a lot more than on the road. What’s the key to beating the Skins? Stop Portis and the rush attack. While Campbell is due for a breakout, it won’t be against this defense. I’m taking the Ravens. By the way, it’s WAY too under the radar what a free agent bust Jason Taylor has been. He might be the weakest trade-acquisition this side of Troy Williamson.
Upset Special #1
Miami Dolphins @ Buffalo Bills (-1)
Somebody explain to me please why this game is in Toronto? While it depends solely on the health of Trent Edwards, I’m going to call out an upset here. Could it be I don’t want the Phins (and Pats) in a three-way tie with the Jets at the end of the week? Of course. Nevertheless, Buffalo might be tricky here; especially if the weather can be any sort of factor.
10 Fantasy Playoff Insights
***Anyone with a bye is in a fraud fantasy league. Or maybe a 12-team league that allows too many people in.***
1) Who's going to be Vincent Jackson on Sunday?
2) Coles and Cotchery are starting to really hurt fantasy owners at the wideout position.
3) Start John Carlson. No questions asked.
4) Matt Cassel isn't Billy Volek from a few years ago. You better start him though.
5) Tim Hightower shouldn't be starting, even in a flex spot.
6) Derrick Ward is still worthy of a flex spot-start.
7) If you can decide how to manage your Seahawk wide receivers, you're spending too much time dissecting your fantasy roster.
8) Don't start Cadillac Williams yet.
9) Bernard Berrian won't catch another 99-yard TD; however, he will catch a TD or two this weekend. Bet on it.
10) Darren Sproles proved Thursday night that he's a relevant playoff fantasy starter right now.
See you next week!
Monday, December 01, 2008
Tuesday FourCast: Week 13
1) Reflecting Negatively
Here’s a few FACTS I bet you didn’t expect to see through 13 weeks of the NFL season:
A) Tom Brady with 0 TD passes.
B) Plaxico Burress shot himself in the thigh and the G-Men are 11-1.
C) 4-8 San Diego Chargers & Jacksonville Jaguars.
D) Brett Favre is 8-4; Aaron Rogers is 5-7
E) Oakland Raiders only firing 1 coach thus far.
F) Seattle Seahawks are 2-10.
There’s countless more; however, there’s the six I’m stacking up as my biggest negative surprises…that you won’t read in two-dozen national columns.
2) Reflecting Positively
Here’s a few FACTS I bet you didn’t expect to see through 13 weeks of the NFL season:
A) NFL TD leader…Michael Turner.
B) 8-4 Atlanta Falcons.
C) Joe Flacco is 8-4 as a starter.
D) Matt Forte, Chris Johnson, & Steve Slaton eyeing 1,000 yard, 10 TD seasons.
E) Gus Frerrotte starting for a playoff contender.
F) No NFC or AFC East team has a losing record.
There’s countless more; however, there’s the six I’m stacking up as my biggest positive surprises…that you won’t read in two-dozen national columns.
3) Deal or No Deal???
Let’s wax poetic with a little “old school” overrated/underrated.
Quarterbacks
Underrated: Chad Pennington
Overrated: David Garrard
Running Backs
Underrated: Thomas Jones
Overrated: Willis McGahee
Wide Receivers
Underrated: Andre Johnson
Overrated: Chad Ocho Cinco
Defenders
Underrated: Mario Williams (Charlie Casserly gets an extra year for this one)
Overrated: Jason Taylor (as a free-agent pickup)
Coaches
Underrated: Jeff Fisher
Overrated: Mike McCarthy
I could go on and on (and on); however, I won’t.
4) 4 More Weeks to Go
In the words of Woody Paige…LOOK AT THE SCHEDULE!
Specifically, let’s check out four of the most popular teams on the NFL radar.
Dallas Cowboys [8-4, 2nd in NFC East, 7th in NFC playoff standings]
@Pittsburgh, NY Giants, Baltimore, @Philadelphia
Consensus: The Cowboys have the Skins nipping at their heels and an NFC South race that is too close to call.
Pittsburgh Steelers [9-3, 1st in AFC North, 2nd in AFC playoff standings]
Dallas, @Baltimore, @Tennessee, Cleveland
Consensus: The Stillers have homefield as a possibility; however, the Ravens and several other hard-charging teams pose real threats for playoff seeding.
Washington Redskins [7-5, 3rd in NFC East, 8th in NFC playoff standings]
@Baltimore, @Cincinnati, Philadelphia, @San Francisco
Consensus: The Skins will need to edge out Dallas as it appears the NFC South may be worthy of 2 playoff spots this year. A win at B-More is crucial though.
New England Patriots [7-5, 2nd in AFC East, 7th in AFC playoff standings]
@Seattle, @Oakland, Arizona, @Buffalo
Consensus: Pats will be heavily favored to go 4-0 down the stretch. That means they’re 11-5 and ultimately playoff bound. Much to the dismay of the Jets, Ravens, and Dolphins.
A few more nuggets...
Carolina is closer to homefield than you might think in the NFC.
Denver may be the safest team – outside of Tennessee – in the AFC playoff picture.
I don’t want to talk about the major hiccup the Jets had last Sunday. Suffice to say though, it may cost them a playoff spot in the end.
Enjoy the madness over the next four weeks!!!
Here’s a few FACTS I bet you didn’t expect to see through 13 weeks of the NFL season:
A) Tom Brady with 0 TD passes.
B) Plaxico Burress shot himself in the thigh and the G-Men are 11-1.
C) 4-8 San Diego Chargers & Jacksonville Jaguars.
D) Brett Favre is 8-4; Aaron Rogers is 5-7
E) Oakland Raiders only firing 1 coach thus far.
F) Seattle Seahawks are 2-10.
There’s countless more; however, there’s the six I’m stacking up as my biggest negative surprises…that you won’t read in two-dozen national columns.
2) Reflecting Positively
Here’s a few FACTS I bet you didn’t expect to see through 13 weeks of the NFL season:
A) NFL TD leader…Michael Turner.
B) 8-4 Atlanta Falcons.
C) Joe Flacco is 8-4 as a starter.
D) Matt Forte, Chris Johnson, & Steve Slaton eyeing 1,000 yard, 10 TD seasons.
E) Gus Frerrotte starting for a playoff contender.
F) No NFC or AFC East team has a losing record.
There’s countless more; however, there’s the six I’m stacking up as my biggest positive surprises…that you won’t read in two-dozen national columns.
3) Deal or No Deal???
Let’s wax poetic with a little “old school” overrated/underrated.
Quarterbacks
Underrated: Chad Pennington
Overrated: David Garrard
Running Backs
Underrated: Thomas Jones
Overrated: Willis McGahee
Wide Receivers
Underrated: Andre Johnson
Overrated: Chad Ocho Cinco
Defenders
Underrated: Mario Williams (Charlie Casserly gets an extra year for this one)
Overrated: Jason Taylor (as a free-agent pickup)
Coaches
Underrated: Jeff Fisher
Overrated: Mike McCarthy
I could go on and on (and on); however, I won’t.
4) 4 More Weeks to Go
In the words of Woody Paige…LOOK AT THE SCHEDULE!
Specifically, let’s check out four of the most popular teams on the NFL radar.
Dallas Cowboys [8-4, 2nd in NFC East, 7th in NFC playoff standings]
@Pittsburgh, NY Giants, Baltimore, @Philadelphia
Consensus: The Cowboys have the Skins nipping at their heels and an NFC South race that is too close to call.
Pittsburgh Steelers [9-3, 1st in AFC North, 2nd in AFC playoff standings]
Dallas, @Baltimore, @Tennessee, Cleveland
Consensus: The Stillers have homefield as a possibility; however, the Ravens and several other hard-charging teams pose real threats for playoff seeding.
Washington Redskins [7-5, 3rd in NFC East, 8th in NFC playoff standings]
@Baltimore, @Cincinnati, Philadelphia, @San Francisco
Consensus: The Skins will need to edge out Dallas as it appears the NFC South may be worthy of 2 playoff spots this year. A win at B-More is crucial though.
New England Patriots [7-5, 2nd in AFC East, 7th in AFC playoff standings]
@Seattle, @Oakland, Arizona, @Buffalo
Consensus: Pats will be heavily favored to go 4-0 down the stretch. That means they’re 11-5 and ultimately playoff bound. Much to the dismay of the Jets, Ravens, and Dolphins.
A few more nuggets...
Carolina is closer to homefield than you might think in the NFC.
Denver may be the safest team – outside of Tennessee – in the AFC playoff picture.
I don’t want to talk about the major hiccup the Jets had last Sunday. Suffice to say though, it may cost them a playoff spot in the end.
Enjoy the madness over the next four weeks!!!
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