Sorry for the lack of posting on the blog of late...it's the slowest time in sports until Spring Training and the NCAA Basketball Tournament begin next month.
I just wanted to chime in regarding AZ-TV's partnership with the Rattlers. As someone who worked to facilitate the deal, I commend our General Manager Jeff Burnton as well as Rattlers owner Brett Bouchy and Team President Danny White for making concessions all around to get this done. We were the station who could give the team the most exposure...but financial considerations on both sides were the sticking point.
Arena Football is a great product and for those of you who have never been, you're missing out. Most people think Arena Football = Kurt Warner, but you would be surprised as to the talent level in the league. Considering the fact that Bouchy and White promised a winning team this season in Arizona, I'm excited to go out and watch.
Saturday, April 17th - mark your calendars - that's the first game to be televised on AZ-TV...against the Chicago Rush (who ironically are co-owned by Mike Ditka).
And on a personal note, I have to say...for all that I've heard about Danny White being the ultimate UofA hater...I can't argue with that...he's cracked some anti-UofA jokes in meetings we've had...but he sure seems to be a good guy. I look forward to working with him and the Rattlers going forward.
Back again soon...
Eric
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Tuesday Thoughts - Wow, was I wrong!
I didn't see that one coming...based on the success Indianapolis has had the last two seasons in meaningful games (25-1 or something like that), I just wasn't going to pick the Saints. But destiny was apparently on their side...and that certainly was an embarrassing pick I made...thoughts below:
-Drew Brees has won over a city like no NFL quarterback has done since Joe Namath. He will forever be a legend in New Orleans...and to think his career was seriously derailed by a severe shoulder injury at the end of the 2005 season...
-Brees was fantastic on Sunday night by taking what the defense was giving him...after the 1st quarter, the Saints QB continued to make precise shorter throws and pretty much abandoned the deep ball. He put on a clinic by taking what the defense would give him.
-Peyton Manning, on the other hand, looked flustered throughout. He had plenty of time to throw most downs, but he didn't seem nearly as calm in the pocket as he usually does.
-Saints Coach Sean Payton dialed up the most gutsy call in Super Bowl history with his second half opening onside kick. The resulting Saints recovery and ensuing touchdown changed the momentum towards the Saints side, even though they scored a last second field goal in the first half.
-How about Saints kicker Garrett Hartley? He was suspended for the first four games of the 2009 season for performance-enhancing drugs, yet came up clutch in the NFC Championship Game with the game-winner despite finishing the regular season poorly. His three 40+ yard field goals on football's biggest stage were extremely impressive...
-Give Saints cornerback Tracy Porter a big raise...he sends the NFC Championship into overtime by intercepting Brett Favre in Saints territory and essentially put the Super Bowl away with a long interception return for a touchdown.
-A 100% healthy Dwight Freeney would've helped, but Drew Brees was "in the zone" as they say...his accuracy was unquestionable under any circumstances.
-I wouldn't want Jim Caldwell coaching my team. No question that he did a fine job this year...but these were Tony Dungy's leftovers...Caldwell just had to make sure he didn't screw it up. He was a less than stellar head coach in college and displays no personality on the sidelines...give me a gambler like Sean Payton all day.
-It was a good game...not an all-time classic...but a well-played Super Bowl by both teams.
-Congratulations to the city of New Orleans...your championship is well-deserved based on the hardships you've encountered in the last five years.
-My playoff picks were absolutely brutal...hopefully you didn't take them to the bank (like I did at times)...
-And now...my early projection for Super Bowl XLV in Dallas:
Green Bay Packers 30, Pittsburgh Steelers 27
Mind you I reserve the right to change this pick several times before next September...other teams in consideration: Dallas, Atlanta, San Diego, Indianapolis, Baltimore (sorry New Orleans).
-Drew Brees has won over a city like no NFL quarterback has done since Joe Namath. He will forever be a legend in New Orleans...and to think his career was seriously derailed by a severe shoulder injury at the end of the 2005 season...
-Brees was fantastic on Sunday night by taking what the defense was giving him...after the 1st quarter, the Saints QB continued to make precise shorter throws and pretty much abandoned the deep ball. He put on a clinic by taking what the defense would give him.
-Peyton Manning, on the other hand, looked flustered throughout. He had plenty of time to throw most downs, but he didn't seem nearly as calm in the pocket as he usually does.
-Saints Coach Sean Payton dialed up the most gutsy call in Super Bowl history with his second half opening onside kick. The resulting Saints recovery and ensuing touchdown changed the momentum towards the Saints side, even though they scored a last second field goal in the first half.
-How about Saints kicker Garrett Hartley? He was suspended for the first four games of the 2009 season for performance-enhancing drugs, yet came up clutch in the NFC Championship Game with the game-winner despite finishing the regular season poorly. His three 40+ yard field goals on football's biggest stage were extremely impressive...
-Give Saints cornerback Tracy Porter a big raise...he sends the NFC Championship into overtime by intercepting Brett Favre in Saints territory and essentially put the Super Bowl away with a long interception return for a touchdown.
-A 100% healthy Dwight Freeney would've helped, but Drew Brees was "in the zone" as they say...his accuracy was unquestionable under any circumstances.
-I wouldn't want Jim Caldwell coaching my team. No question that he did a fine job this year...but these were Tony Dungy's leftovers...Caldwell just had to make sure he didn't screw it up. He was a less than stellar head coach in college and displays no personality on the sidelines...give me a gambler like Sean Payton all day.
-It was a good game...not an all-time classic...but a well-played Super Bowl by both teams.
-Congratulations to the city of New Orleans...your championship is well-deserved based on the hardships you've encountered in the last five years.
-My playoff picks were absolutely brutal...hopefully you didn't take them to the bank (like I did at times)...
-And now...my early projection for Super Bowl XLV in Dallas:
Green Bay Packers 30, Pittsburgh Steelers 27
Mind you I reserve the right to change this pick several times before next September...other teams in consideration: Dallas, Atlanta, San Diego, Indianapolis, Baltimore (sorry New Orleans).
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Why the Colts will dominate Super Bowl XLIV--The Breakdown
I'm not going to pull any punches here folks...Indianapolis is going to win this game...there is no doubt in my mind...and like I said last week, I don't see this one being close.
Look at it this way...of the 43 Super Bowls to date, only 14 have been decided by a touchdown or less. Only twice in history has the game been decided by a touchdown or less in consecutive years...it has never happened three years in a row. The last two Super Bowls were decided by 3 and 4 points respectively...meaning we're due for a blowout.
The Saints are a nice story...their city was devastated by Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and the team and city had to rebuild basically from the ground up. Sean Payton has done a wonderful job as coach with Drew Brees being a God-send at quarterback. The team started 13-0 this season before losing its final three games. In the playoffs, they dismantled the Cardinals before squeaking by the Vikings with plenty of luck involved. Their only chance to win in my opinion is to put immense pressure on Peyton Manning like they did Kurt Warner and Brett Favre in these playoffs. But Manning has a quicker release than those QBs and dismantled far superior defenses in the Ravens and Jets these playoffs.
Throwing out the last two games of the 2009 regular season in which they played their backups nearly 3/4 of the time, Indianapolis is 25-1 in their last 26 meaningful games (23 regular season, 3 in the playoffs)...the only loss being in San Diego during the 2008-09 NFL playoffs. Manning is familiar with the spotlight having led his team to a win on the same field three years ago in a 29-17 victory over the Chicago Bears in Super Bowl XLI.
So with all that said, I'll take the Colts by a double-digit margin.
Now looking at the game from a Vegas perspective...the betting line and over-under. Indianapolis is now favored by between 4.5-5.5 points currently. The favorite has covered in 24 of the 43 games with 2 ties...at a rate of 59%. The over/under currently sits at around 56 for the Colts-Saints game, no doubt the highest total in Super Bowl history. Betters usually like the over, yet for some reason it has only hit in 20 of the 43 big games. Still, I'm tempting fate with my prediction:
COLTS 38, SAINTS 24
(Indy and over)
So who will the most valuable player be? Historically, quarterbacks have won the award in 22 of the 43 contests. No wonder Peyton Manning and Drew Brees have the lowest Vegas odds to win the award. Don't be surprised however, if a defensive player steals the ultimate individual game reward. Last year the Steelers' James Harrison was on his way to winning the MVP before the Cardinals' stunning comeback led to a wild 4th quarter (Steelers WR Santonio Holmes won it after making the dramatic deciding catch with under a minute to go).
This year I'll throw out two possibilities:
-Peyton Manning (1-2 odds) - obvious choice who also won the award three years ago.
-Dwight Freeney (50-1 odds) - the sentimental favorite who likely will play with a severe ankle sprain...if he makes at least two significant defensive plays from his defensive end spot and Indy wins, Freeney will get the award.
So there you have it folks, Indy wins convincingly, Manning or Freeney is the MVP...and all of Indianapolis is happy yet again.
FINAL NON-SUPER BOWL THOUGHT - The recently retired Kurt Warner is a shoe-in Hall-of-Famer in my opinion. He's a two time regular season MVP, a Super Bowl MVP, and holds the three highest passing yardage performances in sports' biggest game. Warner was clutch on the biggest stage, taking two of the NFLs most consistent underachieving franchises (Rams and Cardinals) to Super Bowls a combined three times (with a 1-2 record). If he's not a first or second ballot Hall-of-Famer based on those criteria (I understand he also had a rough period during the middle of his career mostly with the Giants), then the voting process to determine pro football immortality is severely flawed.
Look at it this way...of the 43 Super Bowls to date, only 14 have been decided by a touchdown or less. Only twice in history has the game been decided by a touchdown or less in consecutive years...it has never happened three years in a row. The last two Super Bowls were decided by 3 and 4 points respectively...meaning we're due for a blowout.
The Saints are a nice story...their city was devastated by Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and the team and city had to rebuild basically from the ground up. Sean Payton has done a wonderful job as coach with Drew Brees being a God-send at quarterback. The team started 13-0 this season before losing its final three games. In the playoffs, they dismantled the Cardinals before squeaking by the Vikings with plenty of luck involved. Their only chance to win in my opinion is to put immense pressure on Peyton Manning like they did Kurt Warner and Brett Favre in these playoffs. But Manning has a quicker release than those QBs and dismantled far superior defenses in the Ravens and Jets these playoffs.
Throwing out the last two games of the 2009 regular season in which they played their backups nearly 3/4 of the time, Indianapolis is 25-1 in their last 26 meaningful games (23 regular season, 3 in the playoffs)...the only loss being in San Diego during the 2008-09 NFL playoffs. Manning is familiar with the spotlight having led his team to a win on the same field three years ago in a 29-17 victory over the Chicago Bears in Super Bowl XLI.
So with all that said, I'll take the Colts by a double-digit margin.
Now looking at the game from a Vegas perspective...the betting line and over-under. Indianapolis is now favored by between 4.5-5.5 points currently. The favorite has covered in 24 of the 43 games with 2 ties...at a rate of 59%. The over/under currently sits at around 56 for the Colts-Saints game, no doubt the highest total in Super Bowl history. Betters usually like the over, yet for some reason it has only hit in 20 of the 43 big games. Still, I'm tempting fate with my prediction:
COLTS 38, SAINTS 24
(Indy and over)
So who will the most valuable player be? Historically, quarterbacks have won the award in 22 of the 43 contests. No wonder Peyton Manning and Drew Brees have the lowest Vegas odds to win the award. Don't be surprised however, if a defensive player steals the ultimate individual game reward. Last year the Steelers' James Harrison was on his way to winning the MVP before the Cardinals' stunning comeback led to a wild 4th quarter (Steelers WR Santonio Holmes won it after making the dramatic deciding catch with under a minute to go).
This year I'll throw out two possibilities:
-Peyton Manning (1-2 odds) - obvious choice who also won the award three years ago.
-Dwight Freeney (50-1 odds) - the sentimental favorite who likely will play with a severe ankle sprain...if he makes at least two significant defensive plays from his defensive end spot and Indy wins, Freeney will get the award.
So there you have it folks, Indy wins convincingly, Manning or Freeney is the MVP...and all of Indianapolis is happy yet again.
FINAL NON-SUPER BOWL THOUGHT - The recently retired Kurt Warner is a shoe-in Hall-of-Famer in my opinion. He's a two time regular season MVP, a Super Bowl MVP, and holds the three highest passing yardage performances in sports' biggest game. Warner was clutch on the biggest stage, taking two of the NFLs most consistent underachieving franchises (Rams and Cardinals) to Super Bowls a combined three times (with a 1-2 record). If he's not a first or second ballot Hall-of-Famer based on those criteria (I understand he also had a rough period during the middle of his career mostly with the Giants), then the voting process to determine pro football immortality is severely flawed.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
EC's 10 Fearless Predictions for 2010
Since this is the first weekend without football in nearly five months (and no, the Pro Bowl doesn't count), I'll instead give you 10 "fearless" predictions that I think will come true in the sports world this year...I wouldn't necessarily call all of these off-the-wall picks, but you may disagree:
1. The Arizona Cardinals will not repeat as NFC West Champions in 2010 and therefore miss the NFL playoffs.
-With Matt Leinart likely at quarterback, the Cardinals offense won't be nearly as explosive next season as it has been under Kurt Warner.
2. No BCS conference teams will finish undefeated during the 2010 college football regular season.
-For now I'm going with Alabama and Ohio State to be the highest ranked one loss teams and face off for the National Championship in Glendale next January.
3. One of the Stoops head coaching brothers, Bob or Mike, will leave their current program (Oklahoma and Arizona respectively) for a better coaching opportunity after the 2010 regular season.
-Gut feeling here...my money is on Mike.
4. Suns forward Amare Stoudemire will be traded this February but WILL NOT re-sign with the team to whom he is dealt.
-The Suns will be better off without him as well as getting younger players / draft picks for their future.
5. Your MLB surprise division winner this season will be the San Francisco Giants.
-Tim Lincecum is the best pitcher in baseball...and Matt Cain has explosive stuff as well. The lineup seems to be improved this year as well and the division has weakened despite the emergence of Colorado late last season.
6. With the great slugger Matt Holliday hitting behind him, Albert Pujols will chase a .400 batting average this Summer, only to end up in the .370s. He will also win the NL's MVP Award once again.
-This one might be a bit much to accomplish for the .330 career hitter, but the middle of the St. Louis Cardinals lineup will be more than dangerous.
7. Ryne Sandberg will be named the new manager of the Chicago Cubs after the 2010 season, no matter how they finish.
-Ryno has been on a fast-track in the Cubs organization and I can almost guarantee this is Lou Piniella's last season at the helm.
8. Kansas, Villanova, and Kentucky will comprise three of college basketball's Final Four come late-March.
-Texas is right up there as well...but it's likely there will be one surprise team that is capable of reaching college basketball's ultimate stage.
9. Team USA will surprise and win a medal, either Silver or Bronze in men's hockey during February's Winter Olympics.
-No Miracle on Ice Part II though as Team Canada is just that good...
10. Tiger Woods will go a second straight year without winning a Major tournament.
-The infidelity controversy certainly will not help his golf game at all.
1. The Arizona Cardinals will not repeat as NFC West Champions in 2010 and therefore miss the NFL playoffs.
-With Matt Leinart likely at quarterback, the Cardinals offense won't be nearly as explosive next season as it has been under Kurt Warner.
2. No BCS conference teams will finish undefeated during the 2010 college football regular season.
-For now I'm going with Alabama and Ohio State to be the highest ranked one loss teams and face off for the National Championship in Glendale next January.
3. One of the Stoops head coaching brothers, Bob or Mike, will leave their current program (Oklahoma and Arizona respectively) for a better coaching opportunity after the 2010 regular season.
-Gut feeling here...my money is on Mike.
4. Suns forward Amare Stoudemire will be traded this February but WILL NOT re-sign with the team to whom he is dealt.
-The Suns will be better off without him as well as getting younger players / draft picks for their future.
5. Your MLB surprise division winner this season will be the San Francisco Giants.
-Tim Lincecum is the best pitcher in baseball...and Matt Cain has explosive stuff as well. The lineup seems to be improved this year as well and the division has weakened despite the emergence of Colorado late last season.
6. With the great slugger Matt Holliday hitting behind him, Albert Pujols will chase a .400 batting average this Summer, only to end up in the .370s. He will also win the NL's MVP Award once again.
-This one might be a bit much to accomplish for the .330 career hitter, but the middle of the St. Louis Cardinals lineup will be more than dangerous.
7. Ryne Sandberg will be named the new manager of the Chicago Cubs after the 2010 season, no matter how they finish.
-Ryno has been on a fast-track in the Cubs organization and I can almost guarantee this is Lou Piniella's last season at the helm.
8. Kansas, Villanova, and Kentucky will comprise three of college basketball's Final Four come late-March.
-Texas is right up there as well...but it's likely there will be one surprise team that is capable of reaching college basketball's ultimate stage.
9. Team USA will surprise and win a medal, either Silver or Bronze in men's hockey during February's Winter Olympics.
-No Miracle on Ice Part II though as Team Canada is just that good...
10. Tiger Woods will go a second straight year without winning a Major tournament.
-The infidelity controversy certainly will not help his golf game at all.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Tuesday Thoughts - Championship Games, Favre's Retirement?, Trade Amare, and MORE!
What a great Sunday of football it was...two competitive games...one epic finish...you can't ask for much more than that!
-The Minnesota Vikings franchise has a history of choking in big games...0-4 in the Super Bowl...getting knocked out of the playoffs on the final play of the season against the Cardinals in 2003 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1MEsINwk-xA)...a horrible home loss to Atlanta as a 14 point favorite in the 1998 NFC Championship Game...needless to say Sunday's defeat in New Orleans is right up there...
-Minnesota thoroughly outplayed New Orleans...the yardage difference was almost 2:1 in the Vikings' favor...if they knew how to hold on to the ball, it would've been a rout.
-Adrian Peterson - you're a great running back, but learn how to hold on to the ball...there is no excuse for fumbling as often as you do.
-Brett Favre...what can I say? You're my favorite football player of all-time, but I was rooting against you this time...and you choked big time. There is no excuse to throw that ball at the end of the game...but then again...
-12 men in the huddle after a timeout...come on Minnesota...that's pathetic...
-Listen to the Vikings announcers describing the fateful Favre INT...classic...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJt4hDlEbPw
-I haven't mentioned New Orleans much thus far, but let's be honest...they didn't generate much that didn't relate to turnovers. They forced and scored off turnovers...that was about it. They deserved to lose...and while I congratulate the city of New Orleans on a momentous victory...it was more about Minnesota losing than New Orleans winning in my opinion.
-Indy and the Jets - Peyton Manning rallied his team back against a game Jets team, who played actually quite well. Mark Sanchez was poised beyond his years and played excellent in the 1st half...but the Jets defense just couldn't hold Manning and company down long.
-With Darrelle Revis, the best cover corner in the NFL all over Colts star WR Reggie Wayne, Indy had to explore their other options...and boy did Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie step up.
-Based on what I've seen from Indianapolis and New Orleans of late, my initial gut pick is the Colts to win the Super Bowl 38-24 with the MVP being Peyton Manning.
-Back to Brett Favre for a second...I truly think he's done...he got the Vikings about as far as he could take them and considering the way he was crushed by the Saints defense, I would guess that Favre has had enough. In that case, what a career! It's too bad his final (crucial) passes in Green Bay and Minnesota were both INTs.
-Switching sports, it's almost imperative now that the Suns trade Amare Stoudemire before the trade deadline in mid-February. The team has gone cold in the last two months and it's looking more likely that the playoffs might not be a reality this season. Look for an Eastern Conference team like Miami, Chicago, or Cleveland to make a solid offer that the Suns can't turn down. Remember - Phoenix likely won't be able to re-sign Amare after the season anyway. Enjoy your final few weeks in the Amare era, Phoenix.
-And finally, I would be remiss to mention the basketball beating that took place at Wells Fargo Arena on Saturday night. UofA, led by freshman sensation Derrick Williams, clobbered ASU 77-58 in Tempe. I can't imagine that anyone saw this coming considering ASU was on fire of late, while UofA was so-so.
-Look out college basketball world, Sean Miller is going to do big things at the University of Arizona this decade...I'm predicting a Final Four appearance in 2012.
-The Minnesota Vikings franchise has a history of choking in big games...0-4 in the Super Bowl...getting knocked out of the playoffs on the final play of the season against the Cardinals in 2003 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1MEsINwk-xA)...a horrible home loss to Atlanta as a 14 point favorite in the 1998 NFC Championship Game...needless to say Sunday's defeat in New Orleans is right up there...
-Minnesota thoroughly outplayed New Orleans...the yardage difference was almost 2:1 in the Vikings' favor...if they knew how to hold on to the ball, it would've been a rout.
-Adrian Peterson - you're a great running back, but learn how to hold on to the ball...there is no excuse for fumbling as often as you do.
-Brett Favre...what can I say? You're my favorite football player of all-time, but I was rooting against you this time...and you choked big time. There is no excuse to throw that ball at the end of the game...but then again...
-12 men in the huddle after a timeout...come on Minnesota...that's pathetic...
-Listen to the Vikings announcers describing the fateful Favre INT...classic...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJt4hDlEbPw
-I haven't mentioned New Orleans much thus far, but let's be honest...they didn't generate much that didn't relate to turnovers. They forced and scored off turnovers...that was about it. They deserved to lose...and while I congratulate the city of New Orleans on a momentous victory...it was more about Minnesota losing than New Orleans winning in my opinion.
-Indy and the Jets - Peyton Manning rallied his team back against a game Jets team, who played actually quite well. Mark Sanchez was poised beyond his years and played excellent in the 1st half...but the Jets defense just couldn't hold Manning and company down long.
-With Darrelle Revis, the best cover corner in the NFL all over Colts star WR Reggie Wayne, Indy had to explore their other options...and boy did Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie step up.
-Based on what I've seen from Indianapolis and New Orleans of late, my initial gut pick is the Colts to win the Super Bowl 38-24 with the MVP being Peyton Manning.
-Back to Brett Favre for a second...I truly think he's done...he got the Vikings about as far as he could take them and considering the way he was crushed by the Saints defense, I would guess that Favre has had enough. In that case, what a career! It's too bad his final (crucial) passes in Green Bay and Minnesota were both INTs.
-Switching sports, it's almost imperative now that the Suns trade Amare Stoudemire before the trade deadline in mid-February. The team has gone cold in the last two months and it's looking more likely that the playoffs might not be a reality this season. Look for an Eastern Conference team like Miami, Chicago, or Cleveland to make a solid offer that the Suns can't turn down. Remember - Phoenix likely won't be able to re-sign Amare after the season anyway. Enjoy your final few weeks in the Amare era, Phoenix.
-And finally, I would be remiss to mention the basketball beating that took place at Wells Fargo Arena on Saturday night. UofA, led by freshman sensation Derrick Williams, clobbered ASU 77-58 in Tempe. I can't imagine that anyone saw this coming considering ASU was on fire of late, while UofA was so-so.
-Look out college basketball world, Sean Miller is going to do big things at the University of Arizona this decade...I'm predicting a Final Four appearance in 2012.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
NFL Conference Championship Picks
I'm running out of football picks here...with 3 games left to go in these playoffs, I'm a whopping 2-6. So as I've said the previous two weeks, I wouldn't recommend taking these picks to Vegas...
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS 24, New York Jets 13
-The Jets' victory in Indianapolis in late December is meaningless to the outcome of this game...the Colts rested their starters most of the game, while the Jets played their guts out. The way I see it, Indy dominated a good Baltimore team last week, who happens to employ a similar type of defense to the Jets (consider that New York coach Rex Ryan was the Ravens' defensive coordinator last season). With that said, Peyton Manning does have a history of losing meaningful home playoff games. NOT THIS TIME. The Jets have had a great run, but as soon as they get behind, their power running game won't be nearly as effective. Colts TE Dallas Clark should have a big game...and this time, the Jets won't pull off the big shocker (I'm referring to Super Bowl III with Joe Namath against the Colts).
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS 31, Minnesota Vikings 24
-With no disrespect to their emotional homecoming at the Superdome a few years back or the NFC Championship game they played in Chicago in 2007, this is the biggest game in Saints team history. Both offenses are juggernauts led by future Hall-of-Famers Drew Brees and Brett Favre...though Minnesota does have a big edge on the ground with star RB Adrian Peterson. I'm expecting Minnesota to lead throughout the first half until the Saints roar back in the 3rd quarter with two touchdowns. Favre will lead Minnesota on one final drive only to come up short once again in the NFC Championship Game. The stage will be set for an extremely exciting Super Bowl either way (assuming Indy beats the "boring" Jets)...but this one should be an "all-timer" as well. New Orleans will head to South Florida for Super Bowl XLIV.
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS 24, New York Jets 13
-The Jets' victory in Indianapolis in late December is meaningless to the outcome of this game...the Colts rested their starters most of the game, while the Jets played their guts out. The way I see it, Indy dominated a good Baltimore team last week, who happens to employ a similar type of defense to the Jets (consider that New York coach Rex Ryan was the Ravens' defensive coordinator last season). With that said, Peyton Manning does have a history of losing meaningful home playoff games. NOT THIS TIME. The Jets have had a great run, but as soon as they get behind, their power running game won't be nearly as effective. Colts TE Dallas Clark should have a big game...and this time, the Jets won't pull off the big shocker (I'm referring to Super Bowl III with Joe Namath against the Colts).
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS 31, Minnesota Vikings 24
-With no disrespect to their emotional homecoming at the Superdome a few years back or the NFC Championship game they played in Chicago in 2007, this is the biggest game in Saints team history. Both offenses are juggernauts led by future Hall-of-Famers Drew Brees and Brett Favre...though Minnesota does have a big edge on the ground with star RB Adrian Peterson. I'm expecting Minnesota to lead throughout the first half until the Saints roar back in the 3rd quarter with two touchdowns. Favre will lead Minnesota on one final drive only to come up short once again in the NFC Championship Game. The stage will be set for an extremely exciting Super Bowl either way (assuming Indy beats the "boring" Jets)...but this one should be an "all-timer" as well. New Orleans will head to South Florida for Super Bowl XLIV.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Tuesday Thoughts - NFL Playoff Edition
Just a quick heads up that the blog will be Tuesdays and Thursdays unless noted for the forseeable future...on to my playoff thoughts:
Cardinals vs. Saints
-Kurt Warner is done...he has to retire...not because his ability has declined, but because of the physicality of the game on his 39 year old body. The hit he took on Saturday after throwing his first interception was brutal...how he came back into the game was beyond my comprehension. He's had a great career...3 Super Bowls...2 MVP awards...but 5 concussions? You've been fun to watch Kurt.
-The Cardinals will not win the NFC West next season with Matt Leinart at the helm. He looks too timid on the field...and plays with nowhere near the confidence level he did while at USC.
-On Saturday, New Orleans implemented Green Bay's 2nd half gameplan from the week before...that is, spread the defense out with 3 or 4 wide receivers and watch Arizona's defense fold. Drew Brees absolutely shredded them through the air...
-...And then Reggie Bush took over. Bush has largely been a disappointment throughout his professional career but took about three steps forward in this game. His touchdown run was fabulous...and his punt return for a TD was even better. Before the game I predicted a Bush reunion with former college coach Pete Carroll in Seattle...I would be surprised if New Orleans let him go after that performance.
Ravens vs. Colts
-I guess Indy didn't lose much by resting their starters down the stretch. The defense looked fantastic by shutting down Baltimore from start to finish.
-Peyton Manning makes his reads so much faster than the average NFL quarterback...it's no wonder why he will go down as a sure-fire top 7 quarterback of all-time (let's see here - in no particular order: Montana, Marino, Elway, Favre, Manning, Unitas, Brady).
-The Ravens will be a trendy Super Bowl pick next year...in his first two years, Joe Flacco has won 3 playoff games - all on the road. If he continues to mature...and Baltimore's running game continues to be as effective, watch out AFC!
Cowboys vs. Vikings
-Was Minnesota that good or Dallas that bad? Once the Cowboys couldn't cash in on golden scoring opportunities in the first 20 minutes of game time, the outcome was not in doubt.
-As a Green Bay fan and longtime Brett Favre fan, it makes me sick to see rival Minnesota do so well under Favre's guidance. As much as I would've liked Favre to succeed on the Jets last season, I really hope New Orleans drubs Minnesota this Sunday.
-I'm very surprised Wade Phillips wasn't fired by Cowboys owner Jerry Jones...his team had all the momentum and just got wailed by a team that closed the regular season poorly.
-The Vikings-Saints game will be a classic...a can't miss game for any true football fan regardless of their rooting interests.
Jets vs. Chargers
-I am still shocked at how this game unfolded...San Diego had not lost in three months and had plenty of scoring opportunities, while the Jets' 17 points were the most they could've possibly scored based on the way the Chargers' defense stifled them throughout. If it weren't for a missed field goal or two...and two costly INTs, San Diego wins easily.
-Why is it that the Chargers always have coaches who don't know how to win meaningful playoff games? Marty Shottenheimer, Norv Turner...
-Most accurate regular season kicker of all-time...and Nate Kaeding once again chokes in the playoffs going 0-3...including missing two chip shots.
-San Diego should be in line for another big season in 2010...but I just don't know if I'll have the guts to pick them in the playoffs again.
Back Thursday with this week's picks...
Cardinals vs. Saints
-Kurt Warner is done...he has to retire...not because his ability has declined, but because of the physicality of the game on his 39 year old body. The hit he took on Saturday after throwing his first interception was brutal...how he came back into the game was beyond my comprehension. He's had a great career...3 Super Bowls...2 MVP awards...but 5 concussions? You've been fun to watch Kurt.
-The Cardinals will not win the NFC West next season with Matt Leinart at the helm. He looks too timid on the field...and plays with nowhere near the confidence level he did while at USC.
-On Saturday, New Orleans implemented Green Bay's 2nd half gameplan from the week before...that is, spread the defense out with 3 or 4 wide receivers and watch Arizona's defense fold. Drew Brees absolutely shredded them through the air...
-...And then Reggie Bush took over. Bush has largely been a disappointment throughout his professional career but took about three steps forward in this game. His touchdown run was fabulous...and his punt return for a TD was even better. Before the game I predicted a Bush reunion with former college coach Pete Carroll in Seattle...I would be surprised if New Orleans let him go after that performance.
Ravens vs. Colts
-I guess Indy didn't lose much by resting their starters down the stretch. The defense looked fantastic by shutting down Baltimore from start to finish.
-Peyton Manning makes his reads so much faster than the average NFL quarterback...it's no wonder why he will go down as a sure-fire top 7 quarterback of all-time (let's see here - in no particular order: Montana, Marino, Elway, Favre, Manning, Unitas, Brady).
-The Ravens will be a trendy Super Bowl pick next year...in his first two years, Joe Flacco has won 3 playoff games - all on the road. If he continues to mature...and Baltimore's running game continues to be as effective, watch out AFC!
Cowboys vs. Vikings
-Was Minnesota that good or Dallas that bad? Once the Cowboys couldn't cash in on golden scoring opportunities in the first 20 minutes of game time, the outcome was not in doubt.
-As a Green Bay fan and longtime Brett Favre fan, it makes me sick to see rival Minnesota do so well under Favre's guidance. As much as I would've liked Favre to succeed on the Jets last season, I really hope New Orleans drubs Minnesota this Sunday.
-I'm very surprised Wade Phillips wasn't fired by Cowboys owner Jerry Jones...his team had all the momentum and just got wailed by a team that closed the regular season poorly.
-The Vikings-Saints game will be a classic...a can't miss game for any true football fan regardless of their rooting interests.
Jets vs. Chargers
-I am still shocked at how this game unfolded...San Diego had not lost in three months and had plenty of scoring opportunities, while the Jets' 17 points were the most they could've possibly scored based on the way the Chargers' defense stifled them throughout. If it weren't for a missed field goal or two...and two costly INTs, San Diego wins easily.
-Why is it that the Chargers always have coaches who don't know how to win meaningful playoff games? Marty Shottenheimer, Norv Turner...
-Most accurate regular season kicker of all-time...and Nate Kaeding once again chokes in the playoffs going 0-3...including missing two chip shots.
-San Diego should be in line for another big season in 2010...but I just don't know if I'll have the guts to pick them in the playoffs again.
Back Thursday with this week's picks...
Thursday, January 14, 2010
NFL Divisional Playoff Picks
I still can't get over the fact that I went 0-4 last week after a nearly 69% regular season success rate in picking winners. I was dead-on with the fact that two of the higher seeded teams would lose...I just didn't think both would come from the AFC.
This week I would expect either 1 or 2 of the lower seeded teams to pull off the upset...take a look below to see my analysis:
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS 34, Arizona Cardinals 21
-I don't like the fact that New Orleans lost its final three games of the regular season (after starting 13-0) and hasn't played a truly meaningful game in nearly five weeks. The Cardinals are coming off a highly emotional win against the Packers in the highest scoring playoff game in NFL history. Look for New Orleans to move the ball at will against the now suspect Arizona defense and put up 30+. On the other hand, I expect the Saints defense to slow Kurt Warner and unfortunately push him into retirement after this one (Warner has reportedly been considering it these last few weeks).
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS 23, Baltimore Ravens 17
-This would be my second choice as an upset pick this weekend...but I have a feeling Indy jumps out to a double-digit advantage early and slows Baltimore's rushing attack. Joe Flacco wasn't asked to do much in the Ravens' victory over the Patriots last Sunday...and I don't expect him to be able to lead his team all the way back once they get behind.
Dallas Cowboys 27, MINNESOTA VIKINGS 24
-Here's your big upset folks. Dallas is on fire of late, while Minnesota didn't look too sharp to close the season other than a strong effort against the Giants - who basically didn't want to even play in Week 17. We all have heard by now about Tony Romo's playoff failures...but he sure seemed to put that argument to bed in last week's big win over Philly. Like Kurt Warner, I predict that this loss finally ends the career of Brett Favre - my favorite player of all-time (as a Packers fan).
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS 26, New York Jets 13
-As I explained last week, the Chargers haven't lost in nearly three months and look to be the best team in the NFL at this point. The Jets have overachieved of late led by a strong defense and run-oriented offense. San Diego will attempt to severely slow the Jets rushing attack and make California-native Mark Sanchez beat them through the air. The last time these two teams played in the playoffs several years back, then rookie kicker Nate Kaeding missed a crucial field goal which cost the Chargers the game. He'll kick four this time around in a comfortable San Diego victory.
Back next Monday with thoughts and analysis from this weekend's games!
This week I would expect either 1 or 2 of the lower seeded teams to pull off the upset...take a look below to see my analysis:
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS 34, Arizona Cardinals 21
-I don't like the fact that New Orleans lost its final three games of the regular season (after starting 13-0) and hasn't played a truly meaningful game in nearly five weeks. The Cardinals are coming off a highly emotional win against the Packers in the highest scoring playoff game in NFL history. Look for New Orleans to move the ball at will against the now suspect Arizona defense and put up 30+. On the other hand, I expect the Saints defense to slow Kurt Warner and unfortunately push him into retirement after this one (Warner has reportedly been considering it these last few weeks).
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS 23, Baltimore Ravens 17
-This would be my second choice as an upset pick this weekend...but I have a feeling Indy jumps out to a double-digit advantage early and slows Baltimore's rushing attack. Joe Flacco wasn't asked to do much in the Ravens' victory over the Patriots last Sunday...and I don't expect him to be able to lead his team all the way back once they get behind.
Dallas Cowboys 27, MINNESOTA VIKINGS 24
-Here's your big upset folks. Dallas is on fire of late, while Minnesota didn't look too sharp to close the season other than a strong effort against the Giants - who basically didn't want to even play in Week 17. We all have heard by now about Tony Romo's playoff failures...but he sure seemed to put that argument to bed in last week's big win over Philly. Like Kurt Warner, I predict that this loss finally ends the career of Brett Favre - my favorite player of all-time (as a Packers fan).
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS 26, New York Jets 13
-As I explained last week, the Chargers haven't lost in nearly three months and look to be the best team in the NFL at this point. The Jets have overachieved of late led by a strong defense and run-oriented offense. San Diego will attempt to severely slow the Jets rushing attack and make California-native Mark Sanchez beat them through the air. The last time these two teams played in the playoffs several years back, then rookie kicker Nate Kaeding missed a crucial field goal which cost the Chargers the game. He'll kick four this time around in a comfortable San Diego victory.
Back next Monday with thoughts and analysis from this weekend's games!
Monday, January 11, 2010
Monday Musings - Greatest game of all-time?, my 0-4 playoff record, and more!
There is no question in my mind that the Cardinals-Packers game was the best NFL game I've ever seen...much less the best FOOTBALL game I've seen live in my soon-to-be 27 year old life. The Miami-Ohio State 2OT thriller in the 2003 Fiesta Bowl with the National Championship on the line was incredible...but yesterday's game = the best.
-Though it didn't have the meaning of a Super Bowl or championship game, I just don't see how that doesn't go down as one of the top 5 or 10 most unbelievable/exciting games in NFL history. Though my team was on the losing end, I was glad to witness it in person.
-Kurt Warner will retire at the end of this postseason, there's no doubt about it...and he's clearly a first ballot Hall of Famer in my opinion. He played the NFL equivalent of a perfect game against Green Bay...anytime you throw for more touchdowns than incompletions - that's special. But to do it in a game of this magnitude...incredible.
-Packers QB Aaron Rodgers is also a star who will win a Super Bowl in his career. As he continues to mature and not hold on to the ball as long, he will be among the elite in the league for the next decade.
-Defensive questions: Why did the Packers never blitz Warner? Why did the Cardinals stop blitzing Rodgers in the 2nd half? Why did Arizona's cornerbacks continually go for the big defensive play when every time it worked out in Green Bay's favor?
-If only Rodgers had put a little more air under that deep ball to Greg Jennings on the first play of overtime...he was WIDE open.
-Props to the Cardinals fans...I would say it was 75/25 Arizona supporters in University of Phoenix Stadium...but wow were the AZ fans loud when they needed to be.
-While I'm truly disappointed in the Packers loss, I'm pleased to have seen one of the most exciting football games (pro or college) in at least the last quarter century.
-Not only did my Packers lose, but I ended up going 0-4 in my playoff picks this weekend! How is that even possible? It's almost more difficult to intentionally pick four losers than four winners at this time of the year.
-The Cowboys look like world beaters in their last four games...and I wouldn't be surprised in the least if they beat the Vikings on Sunday. In fact, I'll likely pick Dallas as my upset of the weekend.
-Indianapolis must also be on high upset alert as the Ravens running game and defense completely dominated against New England.
-I like New Orleans and San Diego quite a bit this weekend...
-My early 2010 college football top 5: 1. Alabama, 2. Ohio St., 3. Boise St., 4. Oregon, 5. Virginia Tech
-Bye bye Pete Carroll...congrats on the huge contract in Seattle...thank you for restoring permanent hope to those teams other than USC in the Pac-10.
Back Thursday with the 2nd round of playoff picks...I promise you folks that I'll get at least one right this time!
-Though it didn't have the meaning of a Super Bowl or championship game, I just don't see how that doesn't go down as one of the top 5 or 10 most unbelievable/exciting games in NFL history. Though my team was on the losing end, I was glad to witness it in person.
-Kurt Warner will retire at the end of this postseason, there's no doubt about it...and he's clearly a first ballot Hall of Famer in my opinion. He played the NFL equivalent of a perfect game against Green Bay...anytime you throw for more touchdowns than incompletions - that's special. But to do it in a game of this magnitude...incredible.
-Packers QB Aaron Rodgers is also a star who will win a Super Bowl in his career. As he continues to mature and not hold on to the ball as long, he will be among the elite in the league for the next decade.
-Defensive questions: Why did the Packers never blitz Warner? Why did the Cardinals stop blitzing Rodgers in the 2nd half? Why did Arizona's cornerbacks continually go for the big defensive play when every time it worked out in Green Bay's favor?
-If only Rodgers had put a little more air under that deep ball to Greg Jennings on the first play of overtime...he was WIDE open.
-Props to the Cardinals fans...I would say it was 75/25 Arizona supporters in University of Phoenix Stadium...but wow were the AZ fans loud when they needed to be.
-While I'm truly disappointed in the Packers loss, I'm pleased to have seen one of the most exciting football games (pro or college) in at least the last quarter century.
-Not only did my Packers lose, but I ended up going 0-4 in my playoff picks this weekend! How is that even possible? It's almost more difficult to intentionally pick four losers than four winners at this time of the year.
-The Cowboys look like world beaters in their last four games...and I wouldn't be surprised in the least if they beat the Vikings on Sunday. In fact, I'll likely pick Dallas as my upset of the weekend.
-Indianapolis must also be on high upset alert as the Ravens running game and defense completely dominated against New England.
-I like New Orleans and San Diego quite a bit this weekend...
-My early 2010 college football top 5: 1. Alabama, 2. Ohio St., 3. Boise St., 4. Oregon, 5. Virginia Tech
-Bye bye Pete Carroll...congrats on the huge contract in Seattle...thank you for restoring permanent hope to those teams other than USC in the Pac-10.
Back Thursday with the 2nd round of playoff picks...I promise you folks that I'll get at least one right this time!
Thursday, January 7, 2010
NFL Playoff Picks
Let's be honest here folks...can you think of a tougher NFL playoff season to pick? Three rematches in the Wild Card round from Week 17...that's never happened before in the same season. Did you know that Week 17 losers are 5-4 in revenge matchups the following weekend since 1990? Forthcoming are my playoff predictions, but please don't take these to Vegas...I'm not too confident across the board.
Week 17 Result: 12-4
Overall Season: 177-79 (69.1%) - not bad, but not the 70% I was hoping to achieve
Week 17 Result: 12-4
Overall Season: 177-79 (69.1%) - not bad, but not the 70% I was hoping to achieve
EC's Playoff Picks (HOME TEAMS IN CAPS)
CINCINNATI BENGALS 17, New York Jets 13
-I really wanted to pick the Jets here, but like all four of these first round matchups, this one could easily go either way. Along those same lines, I'll take the hometown Bengals who should have the crowd in their favor and revenge on their minds after a brutal performance last Sunday night at the Meadowlands. Also, while the Jets defense is superb...I doubt that rookie QB Mark Sanchez will be ready for the pressure of a playoff game on the road.
Philadelphia Eagles 27, DALLAS COWBOYS 20
-The Cowboys have posted two straight shutouts, including a pasting of the Eagles last Sunday. But the fact is...Philly coach Andy Reid is 7-0 in first round playoff games in his career...and we all know Dallas' recent playoff troubles. I see the Eagles playing inspired football from the beginning and the Cowboys not being able to catch up.
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS 23, Baltimore Ravens 16
-Losing star #2 receiver Wes Welker likely ensures that New England won't go too far in these playoffs...he's just too valuable a weapon to lose at this juncture. But Baltimore hasn't played crisp football of late and I don't see them shocking the football world with an upset at previously undefeated at home New England.
Green Bay Packers 31, ARIZONA CARDINALS 24
-I truly believe the Packers have the Cardinals' number...the first string offense ran up 38 on Arizona in the first half of a preseason game...and 33 last Sunday in essentially three quarters. That's 71 points in essentially 5 quarters..meaningless games or not...I'll go with the trend. No postseason of magic this January for Arizona.
For the rest of the playoffs (though I have the right to revise these each week):
AFC
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS over Cincinnati Bengals
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS over New England Patriots
San Diego Chargers over INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
NFC
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS over Philadelphia Eagles
Green Bay Packers over MINNESOTA VIKINGS
Green Bay Packers over NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
SUPER BOWL
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS over Green Bay Packers 31-27
MVP: Chargers QB Phillip Rivers
I know these are a bit off-the-wall...but you weren't looking for me to pick the favorites in every game, right?
P.S. - I'm still sticking with Alabama 27-17 over Texas tonight in the match of undefeated teams in tonight's BCS Championship Game.
-I really wanted to pick the Jets here, but like all four of these first round matchups, this one could easily go either way. Along those same lines, I'll take the hometown Bengals who should have the crowd in their favor and revenge on their minds after a brutal performance last Sunday night at the Meadowlands. Also, while the Jets defense is superb...I doubt that rookie QB Mark Sanchez will be ready for the pressure of a playoff game on the road.
Philadelphia Eagles 27, DALLAS COWBOYS 20
-The Cowboys have posted two straight shutouts, including a pasting of the Eagles last Sunday. But the fact is...Philly coach Andy Reid is 7-0 in first round playoff games in his career...and we all know Dallas' recent playoff troubles. I see the Eagles playing inspired football from the beginning and the Cowboys not being able to catch up.
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS 23, Baltimore Ravens 16
-Losing star #2 receiver Wes Welker likely ensures that New England won't go too far in these playoffs...he's just too valuable a weapon to lose at this juncture. But Baltimore hasn't played crisp football of late and I don't see them shocking the football world with an upset at previously undefeated at home New England.
Green Bay Packers 31, ARIZONA CARDINALS 24
-I truly believe the Packers have the Cardinals' number...the first string offense ran up 38 on Arizona in the first half of a preseason game...and 33 last Sunday in essentially three quarters. That's 71 points in essentially 5 quarters..meaningless games or not...I'll go with the trend. No postseason of magic this January for Arizona.
For the rest of the playoffs (though I have the right to revise these each week):
AFC
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS over Cincinnati Bengals
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS over New England Patriots
San Diego Chargers over INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
NFC
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS over Philadelphia Eagles
Green Bay Packers over MINNESOTA VIKINGS
Green Bay Packers over NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
SUPER BOWL
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS over Green Bay Packers 31-27
MVP: Chargers QB Phillip Rivers
I know these are a bit off-the-wall...but you weren't looking for me to pick the favorites in every game, right?
P.S. - I'm still sticking with Alabama 27-17 over Texas tonight in the match of undefeated teams in tonight's BCS Championship Game.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Tuesday (Football) Thoughts: the Holiday Bowl debacle, the Pac-10's embarrassment, the Cardinals' chances on Sunday, and more!
Happy 2010 everyone...so much to discuss in this edition of my ramblings...here we go!
-What a complete joke Arizona's performance was in the Holiday Bowl against Nebraska last week! They were a team who was happy to get there...and who didn't bother showing up when it came to the game on the field. I'm not even sure where to begin...
-The fact is...Nebraska badly out-schemed Arizona in all phases of the game. Their defense was able to generate pressure with four pass rushers, therefore allowing 7 linebackers/defensive backs to drop into coverage to shut down the high-powered Arizona passing game. Check.
-On offense, Nebraska employed the "Wildcat" using running back Rex Burkhead to take the direct snap from center...Arizona had no answer. Likewise when QB Zac Lee was mobile and running out of the pocket...Arizona had no answer there either. Check.
-It was arguably the most embarrassing loss in UofA history...33-0 and I hate to admit it but the score was closer than the game itself. I couldn't get out of the stadium fast enough in the 3rd quarter when it was clear that Arizona wasn't going to generate any points.
-Of course not only does UofA not show up, but the weather was cold and rainy. Clearly the best part of the game was the amazing fireworks show at halftime...that was clearly top notch.
-Besides the game, how can anyone not love San Diego, with the exception of a rainy day here or there? There is plenty to do and the weather usually cooperates.
-Speaking of letdowns, the entire Pac-10 conference look poor in bowl games. Even the two winners, USC and UCLA, had troubles against far inferior teams in Boston College and Temple respectively. Oregon was clearly outplayed by Ohio St., Oregon St. was manhandled by BYU, Cal was outclassed by Utah, and of course Arizona...the only team that showed some heart in my opinion was Stanford...who lost by 4 to Oklahoma despite missing starting QB Andrew Luck.
-The Pac-10 was criticized heavily during the 2008 regular season for its inferiority compared to its non-conference opponents...then went 5-0 in the bowls last December/January. This season was just the opposite...and the conference will be under plenty of scrutinty next Fall.
-Best Bowl Game: Outback Bowl...Auburn-Northwestern...if you didn't see it, then click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKVv_m95UdA - it was a classic which will be replayed for years to come. Idaho-Bowling Green was a very close 2nd.
-Most surprising outcome(s): Too many to list in their entirety...Wyoming over Fresno St. in double OT, SMU over Nevada 48-10, and BYU over Oregon St. 44-20 are among the most surprising...especially the last two being in blowout fashion. Boise St.'s upset over TCU last night was also a bit hair-raising.
-Bowl games this year seem to be all about who wants to be there more...and who feels more disrespected. Underdogs are covering the spread at more than a 2:1 rate - which is shocking.
-Iowa will upset Georgia Tech tonight...I'll say 26-20...and I'm sticking with my original pick of Alabama over Texas 27-17 on Thursday.
-On to the NFL - now in full disclosure, I'm a Packers fan and was thrilled at the result of Sunday's 33-7 over the Cardinals, but can they really do it again. Yes...and they will. For all of these Cardinals fans who believe the team was not actually trying...they need to remember that Kurt Warner was in the game until after Green Bay had already led 14-0.
-24 is the magic number for Sunday's matchup...first team to reach that point total will win.
-Come back Thursday for the rest of the NFL playoff picks...I don't want to spoil them too early.
-Back to college football for a second, does anyone really believe that former Texas Tech head coach Mike Leach was fired solely for his mishandling of a player's concussion symptoms. No chance. Leach is an offensive mastermind, but not so much a people person. I'm convinced that he had run-ins with TTU brass...who figured this was the time to dump his high salary with cause. Look for a settlement to be reached sooner than later.
-I'm also sorry to see Bobby Bowden exit at Florida St. having been forced out by the powers that be. He's been a classy gentleman who took the FSU program from next to nothing and kept them in the spotlight for the last nearly four decades. It was nice to see how focused his players were on whooping a superior West Virginia team in the Gator Bowl to send their coach out with a W.
FINAL THOUGHT - I know that 33 of the 34 bowl games are essentially meaningless in terms of the national championship, but damn are some of them fun to watch. Even if there is a playoff one day in college football, I really hope that those in charge keep a good chunk of the lower-tier bowl games around.
-What a complete joke Arizona's performance was in the Holiday Bowl against Nebraska last week! They were a team who was happy to get there...and who didn't bother showing up when it came to the game on the field. I'm not even sure where to begin...
-The fact is...Nebraska badly out-schemed Arizona in all phases of the game. Their defense was able to generate pressure with four pass rushers, therefore allowing 7 linebackers/defensive backs to drop into coverage to shut down the high-powered Arizona passing game. Check.
-On offense, Nebraska employed the "Wildcat" using running back Rex Burkhead to take the direct snap from center...Arizona had no answer. Likewise when QB Zac Lee was mobile and running out of the pocket...Arizona had no answer there either. Check.
-It was arguably the most embarrassing loss in UofA history...33-0 and I hate to admit it but the score was closer than the game itself. I couldn't get out of the stadium fast enough in the 3rd quarter when it was clear that Arizona wasn't going to generate any points.
-Of course not only does UofA not show up, but the weather was cold and rainy. Clearly the best part of the game was the amazing fireworks show at halftime...that was clearly top notch.
-Besides the game, how can anyone not love San Diego, with the exception of a rainy day here or there? There is plenty to do and the weather usually cooperates.
-Speaking of letdowns, the entire Pac-10 conference look poor in bowl games. Even the two winners, USC and UCLA, had troubles against far inferior teams in Boston College and Temple respectively. Oregon was clearly outplayed by Ohio St., Oregon St. was manhandled by BYU, Cal was outclassed by Utah, and of course Arizona...the only team that showed some heart in my opinion was Stanford...who lost by 4 to Oklahoma despite missing starting QB Andrew Luck.
-The Pac-10 was criticized heavily during the 2008 regular season for its inferiority compared to its non-conference opponents...then went 5-0 in the bowls last December/January. This season was just the opposite...and the conference will be under plenty of scrutinty next Fall.
-Best Bowl Game: Outback Bowl...Auburn-Northwestern...if you didn't see it, then click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKVv_m95UdA - it was a classic which will be replayed for years to come. Idaho-Bowling Green was a very close 2nd.
-Most surprising outcome(s): Too many to list in their entirety...Wyoming over Fresno St. in double OT, SMU over Nevada 48-10, and BYU over Oregon St. 44-20 are among the most surprising...especially the last two being in blowout fashion. Boise St.'s upset over TCU last night was also a bit hair-raising.
-Bowl games this year seem to be all about who wants to be there more...and who feels more disrespected. Underdogs are covering the spread at more than a 2:1 rate - which is shocking.
-Iowa will upset Georgia Tech tonight...I'll say 26-20...and I'm sticking with my original pick of Alabama over Texas 27-17 on Thursday.
-On to the NFL - now in full disclosure, I'm a Packers fan and was thrilled at the result of Sunday's 33-7 over the Cardinals, but can they really do it again. Yes...and they will. For all of these Cardinals fans who believe the team was not actually trying...they need to remember that Kurt Warner was in the game until after Green Bay had already led 14-0.
-24 is the magic number for Sunday's matchup...first team to reach that point total will win.
-Come back Thursday for the rest of the NFL playoff picks...I don't want to spoil them too early.
-Back to college football for a second, does anyone really believe that former Texas Tech head coach Mike Leach was fired solely for his mishandling of a player's concussion symptoms. No chance. Leach is an offensive mastermind, but not so much a people person. I'm convinced that he had run-ins with TTU brass...who figured this was the time to dump his high salary with cause. Look for a settlement to be reached sooner than later.
-I'm also sorry to see Bobby Bowden exit at Florida St. having been forced out by the powers that be. He's been a classy gentleman who took the FSU program from next to nothing and kept them in the spotlight for the last nearly four decades. It was nice to see how focused his players were on whooping a superior West Virginia team in the Gator Bowl to send their coach out with a W.
FINAL THOUGHT - I know that 33 of the 34 bowl games are essentially meaningless in terms of the national championship, but damn are some of them fun to watch. Even if there is a playoff one day in college football, I really hope that those in charge keep a good chunk of the lower-tier bowl games around.
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