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IUfan77's 2009 NFL Predictions....most likely to go wrong.

2009-08-04T21:59:00.005-05:00

Well, NFL training camps began this past weekend so I figured it would be ideal to make my predictions for the upcoming season. Here goes.

NFC East

1. New York Giants - Pierce cleared and Hakeem Nicks possibly being groomed to replace Burress, Eli and Co. should be the team to beat in the NFC East.

2. Dallas - with T.O. and Jessica gone, Tony can now concentrate on utilizing some talent, hopefully Roy Williams won't disappoint in the Big D. Unfortunately what is keeping Dallas down is their pushover coach who doesn't have the intestinal fortitude to lead them to a top spot but can maybe get them a wildcard.

3. Philadelphia - If Westbrook and McNabb can stay healthy and the break-out receiving core from last year can produce, Philly could take the #2 spot and the wildcard from Dallas.

4. Washington - 'skins will be right where they were last year.....bottom feeding....with a .500 record most likely.

NFC North

1. Chicago - Cutler was a great addition to a team that still needs wide receivers.....but if Forte can put up the numbers he did last season and someone can step up for Cutler to throw to, the Bears could be pretty solid on both sides of the ball.

2. Minnesota - Oh how great it would've been if Brett decided to unretire? Well poor preparation by the Vikes got them a great receiver in Percy Harvin, but with Sage Rosenfels and Tavaris Jackson as the quarterback...they just blew millions of dollars....I hope AP is fully rested for another workhorse year.....the Vikes finish second because GB and Detroit are just not that good.

3. Green Bay - Another year...another mediocre season expected by the Pack. Rodgers will put up decent numbers, but the running and passing games are not too flashy and the defense can be suspect at times.

4. Detroit - Well they should win a few games this season. Hopefully Stafford will not become another Joey Harrington and ruin his career before it even began. He does have Calvin Johnson to throw to, but who is in the backfield this year?

NFC South

1. New Orleans - The Saints should be able to win the NFC South as long as their main weapons stay healthy. With an assortment of receivers and running backs last year, the Saints never really marched anywhere. If Bush, Shockey and Colston stay healthy, they should be pretty tough.

2. Atlanta - Matt Ryan proved that he belongs after his remarkable Rookie season in 2008. If Ryan and Turner can follow it up with the same numbers, Atlanta could challenge for the top spot. Key additions this year....1....Tony Gonzalez.

3. Carolina - I don't know how the Panthers did as well as they did last year....Delhomme was awful and Steve Smith went around assaulting his own teammates.....doubt they will be the top team in 09.

4. Tampa Bay - Although they are predicted to finish last in the division, I think they could finish around .500. A very mediocre team with a very mediocre finish.

NFC West

1. Arizona - This may sound crazy, but I think the Cards will repeat as division winners this year. Ok not really since their competition is pretty weak...I mean this is the weakest division in football.

2. Seattle - The Seahawks acquired TJ "Who's Yo Mama" in the offseason, but the success of the Seahawks will hinge on who's throwing the ball.....Hasselback or Wallace.

3. San Fransisco - They drafted a talented young wide receiver, but without a quarterback that can throw downfield, Crabtree's rookie season might be very disappointing.

4. St. Louis - More like St. Poouis.

AFC East

1. New England - There is no way Miami will win the division two years in row. Plus, Brady's back and he is ready to get on the field and away from changing those diapers.

2. Buffalo - The T.O. show has come back to the East coast. I think if T.O. and Edwards can coexist, with Lynch in the backfield, this young Bills team might win some games and raise some eyebrows.

3. Miami - Good running game, but how many times can you run the Wildcat offense and be successful?

4. New York Jets - USC alum Mark Sanchez is supposed to be the same caliber QB as Matt Leinart? And where exactly is Leinart on the Cards depth chart? Sorry Jets fans, Brett has left the building.

AFC North

1. Pittsburgh - As long as Roethlesberger can keep his mind on football and not on fast woman and pretty motorbikes, the Steelers should win the Central again.

2. Baltimore - Flacco got an early present when Derrick Mason unretired. Mark Clayton is an ok receiver and Willis McGahee can still rocket. The Ravens have a decent chance of competing with the Steelers for no. 1.

3. Cincinnati - I think the Bengals will get back to winning games now that Carson Palmer and Chad Ocho Cinco are now bff's again. They still have a suspect backfield and a lot of "suspects" on the roster.

4. Cleveland - Braylon Edwards is hurt in training camp and Dontae Stallworth will miss much if not all of the season due to his legal situation. I doubt the "Mangenious" Mangini can do much with this roster in 09.

AFC South

1. Indianapolis - The Colts should fire on all cylinders from day one as long as Peyton stays healthy. My only concern is the no. 2 wide receiver choice. I like Gonzalez, but the Colts need some height on the outside. If the defense shows up for all 16 regular season games, the Colts should win it all in 09.

2. Tennessee - The Titans took advantage of off-seasons by the Colts and Jags and really coasted through the season on the backs on their running backs and defense. The Titans will still beat down their opponents with the running game, but sooner or later, defenses will figure them out.

3. Jacksonville - The jury is out for the Jags. I think they or Houston are interchangeable in the last two spots.

4. Houston - Andre Johnson and some luck can get the Texans out of the cellar and maybe above .500.

AFC West

1. San Diego - LT and Rivers will make sure the Bolts win the AFC West, but LT is slowing with age so his chance at a Super Bowl win is slipping away quickly. It is now or never for SD.

2. Kansas City - This an upset in my mind, but Cassell has showed some promise and the West is wide open after the top spot.

3. Denver - The Broncos traded away a spot in the playoffs when they traded Cutler for Orton. The Broncos will be lucky if they finish ahead of the Raiders in 09.

4. Oakland - Blah, blah, blah. When are they signing Vick?

Well there you have it I hope you found my predictions to completely inaccurate, because they most likely will be.

What to expect in the upcoming NFL season.....

2009-07-21T12:17:00.003-05:00

This upcoming NFL season should be an exciting, as always, but there might be some additional excitement because of some interesting storylines around the league. Here are my predictions on what we can expect to see in the upcoming season.

1. The T.O. show will tank on and off the field....as will the Bills' season. The pagentry surrounding the arrival of a pre-madonna like Owens is ridiculous (a key to the city presented to him and a parade with dancers and a marching band), when the season begins and Owens realizes where he is and who is throwing to him we will see his true colors once again as he takes the Bills organization hostage and single-handedly ruin Trent Edwards' career.

2. Michael Vick will return to the NFL.....although I am one of the few who believes he should be banned for life from the game, he has served his time and will ultimately get another chance. The questions is when and where will he end up? The new cheer for Vick will be constant dog barking and howling.

3. Brett Favre will un-retire....again.

4. Chad Ochocinco will be back in his all-pro form and the Bengals will turn things around.

5. The Cardinals will make back-to-back trips to the playoffs.

6. Tom Brady will be relegated to diaper duty at the Brady household and at the Patriots complex.

7. Plaxico Burress will learn his lesson and wear pants with pockets when carrying his concealed weapon.

8. Tony Romo and the Cowboys will finally win another playoff game now that the two major distractions are gone...TO and Jessica.

No matter what does or doesn't happen, it should be a great year for the fan!

Will you please go home!

2009-06-17T12:47:00.003-05:00

You remember when you were a kid and there was that friend that would never go home. If you did, you can see the similarities with the circus surrounding Brett Favre's indecision on his retirement. For a second time, we hear that Favre is now considering un-retiring to play for his former team's nemesis, the Minnesota Vikings. I thought, er hoped, that following his shoulder surgery and numerous denials on a return that the book might have finally been closed on the Favre saga. I might have been a little to premature in that assumption. What is he really expecting to do? Take the Vikings to a Super Bowl? Not likely. A playoff appearance? Maybe. But if he is coming back just to try to "stick it" to his former team, he is being ridiculous. I don't fault the Packers for how they handled the situation. They had a solid quarterback who backed up Favre for 2 years waiting for his shot at the starting position....and they were better with Rodgers at QB than Favre! The Pack didn't force him to retire, so why are they the bad guys? Sure the fans might have been upset, but I bet they forgot that when the Packers had a solid season and could look to the future with their young QB. Gimme a break, Favre. I really think he has no other hobby or talent and just can't separate himself from his NFL career. (To Favre from the NFL) "Well Brett, it is time to go home, you are cramping my style."

Kudos to Dontae Stallworth.....

2009-06-16T12:11:00.003-05:00

Following my most recent post, I was glad to read a story involving the Cleveland Brown's Dontae Stallworth. Stallworth unfortunately was involved in a DUI Manslaughter of a man in Miami following the conclusion of the NFL season. I do not condone drinking and driving whatsoever, but it seems as though Stallworth is taking responsibility for his actions. He remained at the scene of the accident and informed police that it was indeed his fault, he agreed to do community service and probation for alcohol/drug use and take coordinating preventative classes, as well as pay a large amount of money to the victim's family to avoid any lawsuit. Now I commend that he is taking responsibility for a mistake, albeit a very tragic one. He will have to live with the fact that he took another life, which for any normal person would be severe punishment in itself. He only recieved a sentence of 30 days in jail and lifetime suspension of his drivers license, which only makes since. He most likely will be suspended by the NFL and will be under the microscope when it comes to his behavior off the field. Time will only tell if this star will keep his nose clean and enjoy a lengthy career or will be relegated to a spectator in record time. No matter what it is certain, he is getting a second chance and it that fails, he could always play in the CFL, right Ricky?

Where Should the Line Be Drawn?

2009-06-12T12:13:00.003-05:00

Any sports fan can see that the athletes that represent the teams we support, are becoming more and more apt to off-the-field issues. The NFL has had to deal with these issues continually for the past few years as the incidents have seemed to have increased. The most notable athlete to have been involved in off-the-field illegal acts was none other than Michael Vick. I personally have never been a fan of Vick, but he is exciting to watch nonetheless. When Vick was arrested for his involvement in dogfighting, the NFL definately took a hit. Vick was the NFL's "Golden Boy" as well as the Atlanta Falcons' answer to a Super Bowl drought. Unfortunately for Vick, the Falcons, Nike and his countless fans, he was sentenced to 23 months in prison. Thanks for playing Mike, hope you enjoy your life after football.....but wait......he may be back? Yes, Vick may be reinstated into the NFL following a stint at Leavenworth. I agree that everyone should have a second chance (with exceptions) but does he deserve to play professional football again and reap the rewards of multi-million dollar contracts? I don't pretend to know much about the legal system, but I am aware that former felons do have difficulties finding employment when they are released back into society. I think it is laughable that it is harder for former felons to find a job at McDonalds than it is to find a job in the NFL. Let's look at some of the players in the NFL that have had recent run-ins with the law: Plaxico Burress-shot himself in his thigh with a gun he had in the waistband of his sweatpants; Pacman Jones-too many times he has made it "rain" or was a conspirator in a shooting of somekind; and Tank Johnson-was found with an arsenal of illegal weapons, large enough to invade a small country. What owner would want to associate their franchise with these idiots? Winning is great, but is it worth sacrificing the integrity of your franchise and its employees? Some questions seem very easy to answer, I guess the more money you have the harder to use common sense is. Jerry, listen to Nancy.

Just Say No!

2009-06-12T11:38:00.004-05:00

If Nancy Reagan were Jerry Jones' mother, a conversation could look a lot like this:

Jerry: Mom, some reporters have asked me if I intend to bring 'Pac-Man' back to the team.

Nancy: What did you tell them?

Jerry: Well...I may have lead them to believe that I was interested, and that 'Pac-Man' would be the best defensive back on the team.

Nancy: Are you serious?!?! Have I taught you nothing?!?! Don't do it Jerry! It will ruin your life, er Franchise!

Jerry: But, I like to hang out with the thugs and if they ask me to do something that I don't really want to do, I won't inhale.

Nancy: Jerry, Just say 'NO'! You don't have to give into the peer (Media) pressure! Walk away, JUST SAY 'NO'!!

Jerry: Are you even listening to me?!?! Do you even care what I have to deal with?!?!

Nancy: NO!! JUST SAY 'NO'!!!

So, in other words Jerry, Just say 'NO'. Don't fall into this media trap, and please don't bring anymore thugs to the team. I am begging you there are enough off the field issues to deal with, and besides what happened to Terrence Newmann?? Is he gone? That's the 'Boys' best DB right there. Shut your mouth, and keep 'Pac-Man' away!

Back Together!

2009-06-11T13:05:00.004-05:00

This post goes out to all our readers (as most posts do):

I'm sorry we've let you down. We will try to be better, please don't leave. I know that there are other blogs out there some better, some not as good, and bloggers that may give more attention to their blogs. But we have recommitted to running a good blog. One that is filled with the greatest nonsense. One that will put all other outrageous blogs to shame. One that, when we look back on this we may be a bit embarassed by the petty little things we argued about. Yes, one that we can all be proud of!

So Long T.O.

2009-03-05T12:33:00.002-06:00

Well, the stock in popcorn might have seen its better days, at least for the time being. The Dallas Cowboys just 9 months after granting a contract extension to Terrell "Getcha Popcorn Ready" Owens, Big D released him on Wednesday evening. Of course this news will be at the top of every news talk program, sports blogs and cable programs....so why disappoint those "die-hard" TO fans? I am not sure if this move will bring the Cowboys any closer to a post-season victory or the Super Bowl, but only time will tell. This sports fan heard T.O. and Tony's relationship really went south when T.O. commented on Romo's gal pal's "voluptuous new figure". Obviously the gag order implented by J.J. probably didn't sit well with T.O. also as we all know T.O. has to share his feelings concerning "his team" and "his quarterback". Anyway, T.O. is back in the pool and is searching for his fourth marriage partner. I compiled a list of each of the NFL teams and the possibility of T.O. making their rosters. So sit back, relax, and grab some popcorn, this could take awhile......or maybe not.

Philadelphia Eagles - been there, done that.....doubt it seriously.

San Fransisco - yeah right, I guess they throw the ball five or six times a game..

Dallas - Don't count out JJ on changing his mind...

Washington - I wouldn't be surprised if Dan Snyder makes a move for another post-prime diva.

Minnesota - TO and Brad Childress never got along in Philly, wouldn't work in 'Sota.

Chicago - TO wouldn't get enough looks as Orton and Grossman throw more to the opposition.

Green Bay - Fans would sell their stock quickly if there was any talk of TO playing in the tundra.

Arizona - They did play in the Super Bowl....they could surprise again if they can't resign Boldin.

St. Louis - Even TO couldn't help the Rams.

Seattle - Rain makes popcorn soggy.

Atlanta - Doubt it, they just recovered from the Vick fiasco.

Detroit - TO + Rookie QB = Rookie QB career killed.

NY Giants - TO or Plaxico.....don't know if TO is into guns....

New Orleans - Could be a fit with a great QB.

Tampa Bay - Who's the QB?

Carolina - There is only 1 reciever in Carolina...and if you don't like it, Steve Smith will make you like it!

Indianapolis - I think one Indy pro team with issues is enough for the city.

Houston - Could he have better numbers in Houston.....that would be a kick in the pants to JJ and Big D.

Tennessee - Kerry Collins does need a quality reciever....

Jacksonville - A run-first, throw-second mentality isn't a good fit with TO.

New York Jets - They just had one Ego retire, could they invite a second to do the same?

New England - They took a chance on Randy Moss and it was successful?? Maybe.

Miami - Bill Parcels and Terrell Owens is like oil and water.

Buffalo - Mediocre QB and TO......the next Odd Couple?

Oakland - Where all post-prime or egos go at one time in their career.

San Diego - Philip Rivers thinks he is tough, TO thinks he is important....we might have a match?

Denver - Already set with Marshall and Royal.

Kansas City - Matt Cassell and TO might work......Cassell and Moss went ok.

Baltimore - Wasn't he supposed to play there before?

Cincinnati - I would love to see this as a fan. Ocho Cinco and TO on the same team....it would be Hee-Haw on a football field.

Pittsburgh - Big Ben would woop TO the first time he started any crap.

Cleveland - Cleveland has a football team?

Good Luck with your new capital venture TO!

Good Luck Major League Baseball.

2009-02-09T15:08:00.003-06:00

I can remember when I was around 6 or 7 years old how much I wanted to be a professional baseball player. Just the thought of sharing the field with greats like Cal Ripken Jr., Don Mattingly, and Nolan Ryan was what drove many young boys to share this same dream. Unfortunately as I grew older the dream of playing in the bigs was replaced by a reality of having a full-time doing things other than playing baseball. For the MLB this is a good thing as those who can't play baseball attend games, buy merchandise and rely on those players to fulfill our dreams as young children. But in the last few years (notable 2000- present) Major League Baseball has started to alienate those die hard fans. Now instead of players playing for the "love" of the game, it has turned into a contest of who can be the next highest paid player. And now we find out MLB tested players in order to decide whether or implement random drug (steroid) testing. A-Rod, admitted he used in 2001-2003 because of "the pressure" he was under to perform while he was a member of the Texas Rangers. He also was the highest paid player in baseball history. Manny Ramirez has been offered many millions of dollars which he has turned down without even flinching. What has happened to the players who love the game and not the riches? Granted, you play sports at the pro level you will be rewarded financially, but to the tune of 250 million for 8 years (A-Rod Texas Rangers contract)??? Add into the mix the Mitchell report, Clemens vs. McNamee, a silent Mark McGuire, an opportunistic Jose Canseco and a possible jail term for Barry Bonds, the greats of our childhood may have not been as great as we had imagined. If players actually played the game for the history and the pure enjoyment of it, rather than the big checks and records, maybe the historic franchises would once again be historic (sorry Chicago, but it has been awhile), with a roster full of perennial all-stars who want to win rather than have an ego competition on who can cash the bigger check. Good Luck Major League Baseball, you're gonna need it!

Goodbye Coach Dungy

2009-01-24T22:31:00.003-06:00

I have taken sometime to digest and think about Coach Dungy's retirement before I wrote anything. How do you say goodbye to the classiest man in professional football. He has been an inspiration to many including me. I was inspired by his book to be a better man and better father. I know the reason he is retiring now is to be an even better husband and father, which makes me admire him more. He understands that football is just a job and he can walk away anytime for something more important, not many coaches understand that. The simple way he talked and the way he never got out of control on the sidelines, the way his players look up to him, and the other coaches he has turned out are all thinks that I admire about him. While I wish he was staying on to coach another year, I understand. If I had the opportunity to spend more time with my family I would not pass it up. He truly is the best coach, in my opinion. Also, in my opinion he is one of the only coaches that didn't cut corners or bend the rules, which is another reason I respect him.

Coach, I am going to miss you!!!!

Is THIS the best there is?

2009-01-11T22:52:00.006-06:00

The Arizona Cardinals vs the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl 43? Well, it could happen. The Cards and the Steelers are the last remaining regular season division champs still alive in the playoffs, but their opponents are more than capable of pulling off even more upsets. Who would've thought the hapless Arizona Cardinals would win a division title, let alone play in the NFC championship. Baltimore has been here before, except this time they have a QB, albeit relatively inexperienced, who can make plays and not force the defense to win a super bowl (sorry Mr. Dilfer). McNabb and Co. squeaked their way into the playoffs and show how some marquee running backs seem to step up their play towards the end of the season (thanks Brian W. (first round draft pick of the Doo Doo Crew, my ribs hurt ooooowwwwwww, but I can put superstar numbers up after your fantasy team is eliminated from the postseason....). And finally Pittsburgh, possibly the only real legitimate division winner still in the playoffs. But Pittsburgh is boring, so are the Ravens, and the NFC West is a joke, or are they? The Cards (9-7) definately benefited from having division rivals that would struggle against teams in the Mountain West Conference, but are they frontin' or are they 2 Legit 2 Quit? I think Kirtus Warnersaurus (ages maximus) leading the Cards to the Super Bowl would be a great story (The Rookie, Bull Durham, Old Yeller), but I am not sure about the rest of America. America might want a more intriguing story (enter Philly vs. Pittsburgh). Where is T.O. and his popcorn when you need him.

Should T.O. Go?

2009-01-08T10:52:00.003-06:00

With the Pac-man out of a job, it seems that the Cowboys are looking for another head to chop and it might be highly paid wide receiver Terrell "get your popcorn ready" Owens. The question is should T.O. go? He has had an average year and not been much of a game changer or a play maker. He his paid something ridiculous like 8 million a year. I was listening to the Herd this morning and he was saying that a WR for San Diego slightly better stats than T.O. and he was only paid 800K. In fairness I think T.O. is a good player, overpaid, but good. I think with the right team and the with the right mindset on his part he could be a really great player. However, for this to happen he is going to get his head out of his rear and stop thinking he is the best. The stats don't lie. So, the question is should T.O. go? I think so, but to where?

Fantasy Wrap-Up

2009-01-07T23:27:00.003-06:00

How in the world did Scott come from behind and win our league again. I can't believe it. I mean, I know IUfan was out a long time ago (he started calling himself the doodoocrew), but I was in the hunt until the end. I wrapped up the playoffs first, heck I was regular session champ, but then RomoisBurning (scott) swoops in and takes the trophy leaving me in third place. I just wish my guys, like Cutler, Parker, Wayne, etc., didn't crap out on me in the second half of the season. Oh, well there is always next year, I am going to win one of these years, did you hear me scott!!!

Great QB's

2009-01-07T23:25:00.003-06:00

I know whose not a great QB:

TONY ROMO

Another Take on the Great QB

2009-01-07T16:49:00.003-06:00

The previous post hit the idea of a great QB pretty much head on. I agree that a QB should be measured by his individual stats, along with winning, etc. What I don't agree with, however, is the idea that Tom Brady is not a great QB. I know that IU Fan is a Colts fan also, therefore he is a bit biased due to the rivalry between the Colts and the Patriots. But, you have to consider several things about Tom Brady. First of all, when he became a starter for the first time all he did was win. Secondly, out side of the 2007 season he has had ZERO supporting cast in terms of top 10 talent at WR or maybe top 20. Example, in his first Superbowl season (and the ensuing two) Tom Brady's top wideout was, Troy Brown? And, in their latest Superbowl conquest his best receiver was Deion Branch, who's not really tearing it up lately. There are also the intangibles. Brady is a field general, much like Manning, he can make all the throws and has a strong arm. The injury from 2008 may jeapordize his career long-term, but even so he is a Hall of Fame QB.

Great QBs are GRRRRREAT!!!!

2009-01-02T21:11:00.003-06:00

I believe a great quarterback can be on a poor team due to a lackluster defense. A great QB is considered great by the stats they put up or the championships they win. For example, Peyton Manning is one of the greatest QB's of all time, regardless of a Super Bowl victory, that only quieted the critics and naysayers. How about QBs like Dan Fouts, Bernie Kosar, and more specifically, Dan Marino. Marino, had a Hall of Fame career, but unfortunately did not win a Super Bowl. Individual Accomplishments have a great deal in measuring a great QB, as does a "team QB". For instance, Peyton's little brother is far from great, but won a super bowl.....how about QB's like Trent Dilfer (really???), Kurt Warner (sorry, but a pass happy Off. Coord. and great surrounding team will get a QB a lot of yards and TD's...example Tom Brady. Winning a Super Bowl will make a QB great for the present, but not in the scope of a career. Regardless of this argument, I think any man that stands the chance of being flattened by 250-300lb men is considered "great" in my book. Go Horse!

What Qualifies a Quarterback as Great?

2008-12-07T22:37:00.003-06:00

Recently Mr. Scott (aka 80's Dork) and I had an interesting conversation about what make a quarterback great. The question was whether or not a quarterback with great stats on a sucky team can still be consider great. For instance Drew Brees is a great quarterback for fantasy football, but his team is the tank, on the flip side Peyton Manning had not had a great year stats wise, but is leading his team to the playoffs. So can a quarterback be considered great even though he is on a bad team? What really matter the individual or the team?

I think the overall team is more important. I think that what makes a quarterback great is overall team performance and leadership. This is shown in how they win; what I mean is they find a way to win. What do you think about this topic? I would love to hear what Mr. Scott and IUFan77 (aka Axel) think about all of this.

Weird Picture of the Week!

2008-11-19T15:16:00.003-06:00

Uh, it looks like Parcells is trying to make out with Belichick. And he ain't hav'in it. I think Belichick is probably a bad kisser anyway. He never fixes himself up anymore.

By the way, I haven't posted very much lately. I have been in school, but really I still reeling from the Cubs playoff lose. I am almost over it and will get back to regular post. Anyway, we should make this a regular post everyweek. What you guys think?

Why the NFL is so great.

2008-10-20T22:07:00.002-05:00

The NFL continues not to disappoint hardcore football fans once again this season. The intriguing storylines (firings and injuries), upsets and complete surprises add to an already spectacular season. For example, the Buffalo Bills are leading the AFC East division at 5-1, the Arizona Cardinals are 2 games ahead of the Rams in the NFC West and the Tenessee Titans are 6-0 in the AFC South with the Colts 3 games back! It is shaping up to be an exciting stretch run for some teams, especially the NFC East with every team with at least a .500 record. There could very well be a repeat Super Bowl Champion not named Patriots or we could see a brand new champion be crowned. As a fan, it doesn't get much better than this.

Gotta' Love Jerry Jones

2008-10-15T21:50:00.003-05:00

In lieu of Tony Romo's broken pinkie, and Adam "No-Longer-Pacman" Jones' indefinite suspension, Jerry Jones attempts to appease Cowboys fans with the trade for wide receiver Roy Williams from the Detroit Lions. This seems like a good move for the long term of the WR position for the 'Boys. Terrell Owens is only going to be on the team for another year or two (Jones probably doesn't like his attitude), and Roy Williams is a guy alot like Owens without the baggage. I know, I know, Williams has his problems, but he hasn't single handily destroyed two franchises (I use "destroyed" lightly). But back to Jerry Jones. Jones' attempt to appease Cowboys fans worked, in my book. I was down and pessimistic about the direction of Dallas since the loss to Arizona, Romo's injury, NL-Pacman's turmoil, and it is still scaring me the way Owens reacted after the Washington loss. But, now that Dallas gets some excellent talent opposite Owens (which he described as being "ecstatic" on hearing the news), when Romo gets back the only problem he's going to have is "who do I give the ball to?" So take your pick double TO, Williams, Witten, or Barber, but you certainly can't cover them all. So I am now optimistic the Cowboys can head into their week 10 bye going 2-1 without Romo, and with options when he gets back. Just what the doctor ordered.

Weekly Pick 'em (once again!)

2008-10-12T09:31:00.002-05:00

Chicago @ Atlanta
Baltimore @ Indianapolis
Detroit @ Minnesota
Oakland @ New Orleans
Cincinnati @ New York Jets
Carolina @ Tampa Bay
St. Louis @ Washington
Miami @ Houston
Jacksonville @ Denver
Dallas @ Arizona
Philadelphia @ San Francisco
Green Bay @ Seattle
New England @ San Diego

Monday:
New York Giants @ Cleveland

Are the Rays for Real?

2008-10-06T22:25:00.006-05:00

The Tampa Bay Rays advanced to their first ever ALCS after beating the ChiSox 3-1. The Rays' franchise is breath of fresh air for those fans of the fall classic who tire from the Yankees vs Red Sox story that has seemed to have dominated baseball. I enjoy seeing the preverbial underdog make a run for that October dream, while leaving their opponents with their huge payrolls and overrated stars watching from their respective clubhouses. Now that the Cubbies are eliminated from the postseason, it seems as though the American League should have an easy path to yet another World Championship. I think that the Rays may have beaten the second best team in the AL, as the Angels of Anaheim in Los Angeles(?) have yet to show up. All I can hope is that my beloved Reds will take a page from the Rays' book and follow suit next season. Good Luck Tampa Bay!

I Am Tellin' You, It's the Curses!

2008-10-05T23:34:00.002-05:00

The cubs are officially under three curses. The curse of the goat, the black cat, and now Bartman. You know of the other two curses, but since the 2003 season the Cubs have not won a single game in the post-season. For two years they have been swept. I can understand last year because they had to play their way into the playoffs, but this year they were an amazing team. They played exceptional until about mid-august and then they skated into the playoffs. Then they played like a little league team. The Cubbies played terrible defense and had zero offense. So, I am blaming the curses. I know, it is just an excuse, but it helps me sleep at night. This offseason we need to figure out how to break these curses. One of my friends thinks the only way to is the blow up wrigley field and start anew. I love Wrigley and would never want to see it demolished, but I started to think this it he only way. The other option: Anyone know any good witch doctors?

Weekly Pick 'em (Has to get better right!?)

2008-10-05T09:22:00.002-05:00

As my partner preceded, last weeks' pick 'em was embarrassing! Here's to a new week!

Sunday, October 5th

Kansas City at Carolina
Chicago at Detroit
Atlanta at Green Bay
San Diego at Miami
Seattle at NY Giants
Washington at Philadelphia
Tennessee at Baltimore
Indianapolis at Houston
Tampa Bay at Denver
Buffalo at Arizona
New England at San Francisco
Cincinnati at Dallas
Pittsburgh at Jacksonville

Monday, October 6th
Minnesota at New Orleans

Cub's Fans Are Distraught

2008-10-03T23:16:00.002-05:00

The picture says it all. The Cubs are struggling. Is it the dreaded curse or just a tense team? I wish they would have won last night to put them at ease, but they played like a little league team. They committed so many errors it wasn't even funny. However, with all that said I still think they can rally. They need to go back to playing the way they did to get to the post-season. They need to loosen up and have fun. They don't need to worry about any curse. There is still hope, they can win, but they are going to have let go of the last two losses.

And if they don't win, oh well what is one more year. Then we can say what we always say in Chicago, "There is always next year."

Bryan's Week 5 NFL Picks

2008-10-03T21:25:00.006-05:00

After my embarrassing barely .500 picks last week I am hoping to make some better picks this week. We'll see. My picks are in Red.

Sunday, October 5th

Kansas City at Carolina
Chicago at Detroit (I know call me crazy, but I think Detroit wins)
Atlanta at Green Bay
San Diego at Miami
Seattle at NY Giants
Washington at Philadelphia
Tennessee at Baltimore
Indianapolis at Houston
Tampa Bay at Denver
Buffalo at Arizona
New England at San Francisco
Cincinnati at Dallas
Pittsburgh at Jacksonville

Monday, October 6th

Minnesota at New Orleans

Can Randy Moss Realize Fantasy Projections?

2008-10-02T14:09:00.005-05:00

Is Randy Moss still a relevant fantasy football (FF) wide reciever option? I'm sure there are many owners out there that have him sitting on the trading block (I did in one league) or plopped on the bench behind the likes of Lance Moore & Bernard Berrian. Of course the logical thinking FF player did not think that Moss would have a consecutive 20 TD season, we were hopeful for around 10-12 TD's, however. Ever since Tom Brady went down Moss has taken the plummet along side him into fantasy irrelevance. It seems that Moss himself might as well be injured, he's produced less that 3 points per game since Brady's departure. All this leads to my uncanny feeling that Moss will turn it around, however. He is playing with a quarterback who hadn't seen any action since high school , in Matt Cassel, and has been a bit timid at first (considering the speed at which he would go to a check down receiver). But, I know you don't want to hear this, Bill Belichick is notorious for adjustments and preparation. Well, what dyou know? He has this bye week both to adjust his gameplans to fit the needs of both Moss and Cassel and two weeks to prepare them. I would look for Moss in more slot positions and run more 5-10 yard ins and drags, getting him in open field (much like a RB) against LB's in which he can exploit his speed and quickness. He could certainly end up with 8-10 TD's, really the lower end of preseason hopes. If he could obtain this, though, it is alot more production than what you could get out of a trade or off the waiver wire. Without Brady, Moss will become more of a second-tier receiver in most fantasy leagues, but hey after the output thats been put on the field second-tier is two steps up!

If Bobby Knight was president....

2008-10-01T21:42:00.002-05:00

With the upcoming Presidential election looming, myself as well as many other Americans are probably unsure who of the two candidates are best suited to lead our country. Each candidate has some things to offer the American people, but neither one really has that aura of authority about them. We need a hard-nosed, take no crap President like Ronald Reagan or Teddy Roosevelt in order for us to take back our spot as el country numero uno. The wheels started to turn the other day and I came up with a solution to our political dilemma. I officially nominate Robert Montgomery Knight, aka The General, as a candidate for the President of the United States. Now I know there are those who disagree with Knight's antics as a coach, but I believe his track record speaks for itself. He is a reliable diplomat (Represented the US in the Pan Am games and the Olympics), he will vehemonantly argue for his point, he won't put up with those around him who don't pull their own weight (Wall Street and United Nations----chairs will be flying, folks), and our education system and libraries will improve to where we rank among the top in the world. The war in Iraq will come to an abrupt end after The General goes from a zone defense to man-to-man to whoop each member of Al-Quaida face to face (Zone almost never works). Basically, who is more qualified that Mr. Future Presidente, Robert M. Knight?? He has worked well with the media, so his State of the Union addresses will be informative and entertaining. More importantly, he is a straight-shooter. So if we want someone in the White House to be looking out for our best interests and being a champion to the Presidency, that man is Bobby Knight. Knight in '08!

IUfan77's NFL 2008 Predictions

2008-09-30T22:46:00.007-05:00

Here are my predictions for the 2008 NFL season (4 weeks late)....

NFC East winner - Dallas Cowboys

A vast array of offensive weapons (Romo, Barber, T.O.. Witten) are at Jerry Jones and Wade Phillips disposal not to mention a tough defense that showcases some felons.

NFC North winner - Green Bay Packers

The Favre-less Pack will win a very weak division, but it will be a very close battle between Green Bay, Chicago and Minnesota. Aaron Rodgers doesn't disappoint.

NFC South winner - New Orleans Saints

That's right, the Big Easy will regain their status as tops in the NFC South. Brees will have to hope and pray his offense gets healthy and remain that way or this season will be a repeat of 2007. I would say that the Bucs would challenge for the division, but a ratio of 2 INT's to every 1 TD is not a very good stat. The Panther's Steve Smith can't play offense and defense, or can he?

NFC West winner - Anyone in the division, but possibly...the Arizona Cardinals?

Arizona has the most solid chance of any of these teams. I do like Seattle, but with the exception of Julius Jones and backache hampered Matt Hasselbeck, the 'Hawks depth at wide receiver is very poor due to some key injuries. The 49ers still don't impress me enough, even if JT O'Sullivan has played average football, to say the least. The Cardinals have an old veteran under center (Warner), a decent RB (James)and some very talented young WR (Boldin and Fitzgerald).

NFC Wildcards - NY Giants and Chicago Bears

AFC East winner - Buffalo Bills

The key is consistency and some lucky breaks, er tears, (sorry Tom B.). The Bills are the strongest all-around team on both sides of the ball. Their QB (Edwards) is average, their RB (Lynch) is pretty good and their WR (Evans, Reed, Hardy) are decent as well. Defensively they have shown they can produce takeaways. The Patriots still have an outside chance at the division or more likely a wildcard, with the Jets and Favre on the outside looking in.

AFC North winner - Pittsburgh Steelers

Pathetic division, only logical choice.

AFC South winner - Indianapolis Colts

After a tough 1-2 start, the Colts will fire back up after their bye week. The Titans won't be unbeaten for long with Kerry Collins as their QB, the Jags could pull off the divisional upset or at least a wildcard, regardless, Indy will be playing in the post season.

AFC West winner - San Diego Chargers

The Bolts have started to regain that look they had last regular season before it all fell apart. Not a fan of Norv Turner as a head coach, great Offensive Coordinator, not a great head coach, but Philip Rivers with enough time and LT in the backfield and a defense that can keep their opponents out of the endzone (not the Broncos) make for a sure pick to win the division.

AFC Wildcards - Denver Broncos and Jacksonville Jaguars

NFC Champion - Dallas Cowboys

AFC Champion - Indianapolis Colts

Super Bowl Champion - Dallas Cowboys

And that is all I have to say about that.

MLB Playoff Round 1 Picks

2008-09-30T17:38:00.002-05:00

For tonight I am picking the Twins, they just seem to be hot. Also, I am a Cubbies fan so that automatically means I don't like the Chi-Sox.

It really doesn't matter because I am going to pick the Rays to win that matchup.

Red Soxs over the Angels

Phillies over the Brewers

Of course I am going to pick the Cubs over the Dodgers. Go Cubs!!!

Thank You Washington for Your Wonderful Gift!

2008-09-29T12:43:00.005-05:00

As my partner in crime mentioned in an earlier post, this season is weird. Not that the NFC has a winning record against the AFC (the last time I checked). Not that the J-E-T-S Jets, Jets, Jets! hung fifty-six on an "improved" Arizona defense. Not even that the most impressive offense of this early season (Denver) failed to score even twenty points in route to a loss to the, Chiefs? No, it has to be the Dallas Cowboys' loss to rival Washington Redskins. I despise the Redskins, absolutely despise them, and their fans (not as general human beings but in the sports realm okay?). I'm not going to sit here and make excuses for why the Cowboys lost, they deserved to lose after the way they played. This is to the arrogant 'Skins fan: you won by TWO! I understand in the NFL a win is a win, but when a team plays as poorly as the Cowboys did on Sunday, you only won by TWO! In my opinion this only will fuel the Dallas fire, and show them that they are not going to be handed a Super Bowl, by making them work even harder than ever to make the playoffs. They now know that they are not indestructible, and will do what it takes to become indestuctible. So, thank you Redskins, by helping the 'Boys build more character and unity! See you on the other side!

Bryan's Week 4 NFL Picks

2008-09-27T20:32:00.003-05:00

Before I make my picks I just wanted to comment on how crazy it is that there is already a bye this week. It seems like the season just started 5 minutes ago and already they are taking a week off. Crazy, anyway here are the picks.

Sunday, September 28
Cleveland @ Cincinnati- Close
Minnesota @ Tennessee - Close
Denver @ Kansas City - Blowout
San Francisco @ New Orleans - Close
Arizona @ NY Jets - Favre Redemption
Green Bay @ Tampa Bay - Closer than you think
Atlanta @ Carolina - Upset
Houston @ Jacksonville - Blowout
San Diego @ Oakland - Blowout
Buffalo @ St. Louis - Blowout
Washington @ Dallas - Closer than you think
Philadelphia @ Chicago - Close

Monday, September 29
Baltimore @ Pittsburgh - Upset

USC Bandwagon Crashed!

2008-09-27T20:19:00.002-05:00

I think I called this one. Not that USC would lose because I think everyone in there right mind realized that they would lose at least one game, but I called the fact that first everyone is jumping off the USC bandwagon. People were already crowning them as national champs before they even played a game. Now everyone is talking about droping them out of the top 10.

Second, I called the fact that the USC homers would make excuses how this loss doesn't matter. A certain ESPN radio talk show host said that if he was offered USC vs. SEC as to who is going to win the national championship he would take USC. I thought that was crazy because you never take one over twelve and because the SEC is one of the toughest conferences out there, much tougher than the PAC-10. I listened to his show on Friday and all he did was make excuses for USC and how the loss doesn't matter, blah, blah, blah.

Really I don't care, I think this just shows the need for play-off system. The only way to fairly determine a true national champ is to have a play-off. It can't keep being the same teams playing ever year, how many chances is Ohio State going to get.

NL Wildcard!

2008-09-25T10:44:00.004-05:00

I am watching the NL wildcard very closely. I predict that the Brewers will win the spot. I am a huge Cubs fan and would rather play the Brewers than the Mets. The reason is we play the Brewers a million times during the regular season and we know a lot about them. I am aware that this could also work to our disadvantage, but I want to take that chance. Go Brewers!

I also have been following the AL Central race which is equally exciting. I think the Twins will pull it out. Especially if they can win tonight, then they play the Royals for their last series. Tonight will be very exciting.

Week 4 Picks

2008-09-25T08:35:00.005-05:00

My Week Four picks are below. I have put who I think will be the winner in red. If you have any disagreements feel free to voice your opinion.

Here we go:

Sunday, September 28

Cleveland @ Cincinnati
Minnesota @ Tennessee
Denver @ Kansas City
San Francisco @ New Orleans
Arizona @ NY Jets
Green Bay @ Tampa Bay
Atlanta @ Carolina
Houston @ Jacksonville
San Diego @ Oakland
Buffalo @ St. Louis (I know Miami was bad last year, but I think St. Louis could be worse!)
Washington @ Dallas
Philadelphia @ Chicago

Monday, September 29

Baltimore @ Pittsburgh

There you go. Have at 'em!

No Post-Season for Yanks

2008-09-24T09:27:00.008-05:00

I am a Red Sox fan. Most of it comes from the Texas Rangers being terrible year in and year out, and when playoff time rolled around each year I found myself rooting against the Yankees. Often times those late season/post-season series were between the Sox and the Yanks, so I sort of hopped on the Bo-Sox bandwagon and began to follow them. However, On a night when the Sox clinched a playoff birth for the fifth time out of six years, the Yanks clinched a guaranteed NON-playoff spot. All this in the last year of Yankee Stadium. While I may genuinely despise the most overpaid-underachieving team maybe in baseball history it kind of saddens me to see them go out like this. I always enjoyed the past few seasons where they got knocked off in the playoffs, it was like a tradition for me. I love traditions new and old, and to see "The House that Ruth Built" go out without a playoff run seems like something isn't quite right.

Cubs Lose, NL Wildcard Implications

2008-09-23T22:18:00.002-05:00

So the Cubs lost tonight, I think that means if the Brewers (who are tied with the Pirates as I write this in the 9th inning) win tonight then they will be only 1/2 game back from the Mets. The Mets started to look like they did last year and begain to choke, but they won tonight. What does that mean? I think it will be intersting to see the Brewers and the Mets fight it out over the next week. If I gambled my money would probably be on the Brewers, they just seem to want it really bad this year (even they have been in a slump the past month). Looks to be intersting week.

NFL Week 3 Observations

2008-09-23T22:02:00.002-05:00

This season is starting off very different from last year. It is almost like bizarro world for the NFL. Of course Lucus' beloved Cowboys are undefeated (choke, choke, choke), but what about the Giants. Come on, did anyone really expect them to come out and make a strong showing this year. I sure didn't. And what about over in the AFC. The undefeated teams are the Bills, the Ravens (only 2-0 since there game against the Texans was postponed), and the Broncos. None of these teams were even thought about as being Superbowl contenders next to the mighty Patriots and my beloved Colts.

Oh, how the mighty have fallen. I mean can you believe how the Dolphins destroyed the Patriots. Ronnie Brown was a stud. If you have him for your fantasy team you probably thought you would pick him up for a bye week or something, but now you look like a genius. The AFC is up from grabs this year. Which brings me to my own team, the Colts, whom I am very disappointed in. They looked really bad. The offensive line has to improve. I know they are young but they have to protect Peyton so he can do what he does best, win football games. At least they have are on a bye this week, I heard Peyton on Mike and Mike this morning and he said that they would be working hard for the next two weeks to improve there weak spots, I hope it works. I don't think I can handle it if the Cowboys go to the Superbowl and the Colts don't, oh what am I saying the Cowboys always choke in the post season.

New Sports Blog

2008-09-23T16:00:00.000-05:00

This is a sports blog, but not just any sports blog. This is the best sports blog ever (self-proclaimed, of course). Okay, it may not be the best sports blog, but at least it will be entertaining. My BFF (can I use that as a guy or that reserved for 13 year old girls?) and I are always arguing about sports, we also always have an opinion about what is going on in the world of sports, and who is the best team (Colts). So we thought let's right some of this down for the entire world to see, maybe someone other than our mothers will read it. Anyway, I hope you enjoy it.