Anyone that has had the pleasure of talking about sports with me knows a few things. First, that I am very passionate about sports. The teams that I root for, or claim as 'my team' are very dear to me. I am not a fair weather fan by any means. I support my team through the bad years and the good. 20 years of being a fan of the New Orleans Saints and Utah Jazz should prove that point.
Another thing you should know about me is that I take sports very seriously, and hate when teams, owners and commisioners try and cut corners to save money, lie about making the game better and single out teams for crimes that everyone is committing.
I hate lock outs, wether its the players or owners fault, I hate teams selling/trading their best pieces and getting nothing back in return.
And I hate replacement officiating.
I've hated it from the pre-season.
I knew it was going to be a disaster. I knew that multiple calls were either going to be called wrong, or not called at all. I knew players, coaches and fans were going to be upset. But the owners, they'd be ok with it. After all, the NFL is a multi billion dollar behemoth. It makes so much money because the product is so good and fun to watch. The owners knew that fans would still go to games at the stadiums, and still watch on sundays. The owners knew they would still make money off of the fans, even though the officiating would be subpar to say the least.
What the owners didn't know or expect was the aftermath of monday nights game. Many people said that eventually, these replacement refs would cost one team a victory. Luckily for us it game this early in the season.
As of right now, news is that a new agreement is being finished and that the new refs will be officiating tonights game. They will be a little slow and behind as this is their first game, but it will still be better than what we had before.
It took a giant mistake to get this deal done. It took a day that was filled with news about this one blown call. Constant replays, discussions, arguments and frustrating rants was everywhere on the news on tuesday. And it wasn't just on ESPN. National news had tons of coverage on this, even President Obama chimed in on the subject.
This is what had to happen for the NFL to get this deal done. And its lucky that it happened this early. Many fans had either stopped watching, thought about stop watching, or were about to stop watching even before the fiasco on monday occured. I was one of these fans.
After watching some games on sunday afternoon I announced that I was done watching the NFL until the refs are back. I had seen too many games with just bad officiating. Bad calls, no calls, late calls you name it, it happened.
While watching my pathetic Saints lose to the Chiefs I saw multiple no calls for holding, pass interference(offense and defense) and the calls that were made were wrong(on both sides).
This pushed me over the edge. Three weeks of watching this garbage was enough for me to do my part to send the NFL a message. I was going to stop watching the NFL.
I didn't watch the Sunday night game, or the Monday night game. I've seen enough highlights from the games to see how bad the officiating was.
The NFL was always tried to say they stand for integrity. When in reality, they will only stand for integrity when it makes them money.
I am glad the NFL has the refs back. I am unhappy about how it was handled and I don't blame the refs at all. They clearly deserve a pay raise(and a pension fund) as anyone other than these refs is not good enough.
I think Roger Goodell should be on the hot seat as a commisioner. He made the NFL players lockout much more difficulty by trying to blame the players for the lockout, when clearly the owners were greedy. He also tried to save a tiny amount of money on the refs, we are talking about pay raises to 149,000 this season. That's nothing cmpared to the billions of dollars teh NFL brings in.
The NFL is getting harder and harder to watch. And although I am happy the refs are back, I do not have solid faith in the NFL. Not after the two lockouts, the still constant head injuries despite Goodell claiming he is 'worried about player saftey'(and Goodell wanting to go to an 18 game schedule). Not to mention him singleing out specific players and teams for crimes every team committs.
I'm happy to be able to watch the NFL again, but I'm even more happy that I have college football and that the NBA season is only a month away from starting.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Week 5 Picks
This last week has been my best week for picks of the year easily. I posted a strong 14-1 record to get me out of my .500 slump. We're getting a better feel for each team and figuring out which teams look elite, and which ones are fake.
Cardinals vs Rams - The Cards are the surprise of the year, the Rams are playing much better as well though. The Cardinals win, but its close. Cardinals win.
Dolphins vs Bengals - Both teams are hard to get a read on. Sometimes they play great, other times they can't hold a lead. I like Andy Dalton at QB for the Bengals, so I guess I take them. Bengals win.
Packers vs Colts - The Packers offense is slowly getting back to last years form, adn the defense has been better, especially against the run. The Colts have a bright future, but Sunday will be a tough game. Packers win.
Ravens vs Chiefs - The Ravens keep trying to prove to us that they aren't the Ravens of old that lose games they should win, and this is a perfect trap game for them. Playing on the road in a tough stadium. However, the Chiefs defense is bad and the Ravens offense is clicking. Ravens win.
Falcons vs Redskins - The Falcons squeezed out a win over the Panthers, but they still look like the team to beat in the NFC and possibly the NFL. Falcons win.
Browns vs Giants - The defending champs lost a close game to the Eagles, and should be looking to silence any critics by beating up on the lowly Browns.
Eagles vs Steelers - The Steelers are coming off of their bye, and hopefully for them their starters on defense are ready to go. The Eagles played tough defense against the Giants on Sunday. It should be a good game with the younger Eagles winning. Eagles win.
Seahawks vs Panthers - The Seahawks are a confusing team, beating the Packers two weeks ago, but losing to the Rams last week(and ruining my chance for a perfect week). Its offense vs defense and I'm going with offense this time. Panthers win.
Bears vs Jaguars - The Bears looked good on Monday and the Jags are still hopelessly rebuilding. Bears win.
Titans vs Vikings - Minnesota has been a big surprise this year, playing tough defense and winning close games. Nothing should change this week, Vikings win.
Broncos vs Patriots - I'm not sure what to think of the Pats so far, they are 2-2 with wins against the Titans and Bills. The Broncos always dig themselves into a whole early on. This game can go either way, but in the Brady-Manning rivalry I've always chosen Brady, so Patriots win.
Bills vs 49ers - Unless the Niners fall apart like they did against the Vikings two weeks ago, it'll be an easy win against the injured Bills. 49ers win.
Chargers vs Saints - Rivers vs Brees. Brees is the better QB(by far), but Rivers has a better team and an actual coach around him. My sad Saints keep losing close games, but with the Chargers playing well it will be a long night in New Orleans. Chargers win.
Texans vs Jets - Houston is rolling, and the Jets are confused and look like they are on the verge of needing to rebuild. Texans win.
Last Week's Record - 14-1
Season 38-15
Cardinals vs Rams - The Cards are the surprise of the year, the Rams are playing much better as well though. The Cardinals win, but its close. Cardinals win.
Dolphins vs Bengals - Both teams are hard to get a read on. Sometimes they play great, other times they can't hold a lead. I like Andy Dalton at QB for the Bengals, so I guess I take them. Bengals win.
Packers vs Colts - The Packers offense is slowly getting back to last years form, adn the defense has been better, especially against the run. The Colts have a bright future, but Sunday will be a tough game. Packers win.
Ravens vs Chiefs - The Ravens keep trying to prove to us that they aren't the Ravens of old that lose games they should win, and this is a perfect trap game for them. Playing on the road in a tough stadium. However, the Chiefs defense is bad and the Ravens offense is clicking. Ravens win.
Falcons vs Redskins - The Falcons squeezed out a win over the Panthers, but they still look like the team to beat in the NFC and possibly the NFL. Falcons win.
Browns vs Giants - The defending champs lost a close game to the Eagles, and should be looking to silence any critics by beating up on the lowly Browns.
Eagles vs Steelers - The Steelers are coming off of their bye, and hopefully for them their starters on defense are ready to go. The Eagles played tough defense against the Giants on Sunday. It should be a good game with the younger Eagles winning. Eagles win.
Seahawks vs Panthers - The Seahawks are a confusing team, beating the Packers two weeks ago, but losing to the Rams last week(and ruining my chance for a perfect week). Its offense vs defense and I'm going with offense this time. Panthers win.
Bears vs Jaguars - The Bears looked good on Monday and the Jags are still hopelessly rebuilding. Bears win.
Titans vs Vikings - Minnesota has been a big surprise this year, playing tough defense and winning close games. Nothing should change this week, Vikings win.
Broncos vs Patriots - I'm not sure what to think of the Pats so far, they are 2-2 with wins against the Titans and Bills. The Broncos always dig themselves into a whole early on. This game can go either way, but in the Brady-Manning rivalry I've always chosen Brady, so Patriots win.
Bills vs 49ers - Unless the Niners fall apart like they did against the Vikings two weeks ago, it'll be an easy win against the injured Bills. 49ers win.
Chargers vs Saints - Rivers vs Brees. Brees is the better QB(by far), but Rivers has a better team and an actual coach around him. My sad Saints keep losing close games, but with the Chargers playing well it will be a long night in New Orleans. Chargers win.
Texans vs Jets - Houston is rolling, and the Jets are confused and look like they are on the verge of needing to rebuild. Texans win.
Last Week's Record - 14-1
Season 38-15
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Week 4 picks
I had another 8-8 week after some bad performances by teams that either needed or win, should've won. Hopefully as the season continues on we are able to see what each team really is.
Browns vs Ravens - This game will be closer than most think. Baltimore just came off a tough night game against the Patriots. But the Ravens will still show up and win. Ravens win.
Panthers vs Falcons - Atlanta may be one of the best teams in the NFL this year. We'll see how they play in a pressure situation, but for now its hard to bet against them. Falcons win.
Patriots vs Bills - The Pats have a losing record for the first time in a long, long time. Although its early they need a win. Their only win is coming against the lowly Titans. Luckily for the Pats, they get to play the Bills who keep finding players on the IR. - Pats win.
Vikings vs Lions - The Vikings had the upset of the season last week when they beat the Niners. The Lions lost to the Titans and QB Matt Stafford looks to be hurt, shocker I know. The question for the young Vikings team is if they can keep up their momentum. I think they do. Vikings win.
Chargers vs Chiefs - The Chargers have looked better than expected, and the Chiefs have done the opposite. Arrowhead stadium is a tough place to play, but my money is for the Chargers to avenge the beating they took last week. Chargers win.
Seahawks vs Rams - Seattle was given a win on monday, but they are still a good and very tough team. They nearly held the Packers without a TD on monday. They should be able to ink out a win and try to keep their momentum up. Seahawks win.
49ers vs Jets - The Niners were shocked by the Vikings on sunday. The Jets went to OT against the Dolphins. The Niners defense should shut down the Jets, and with the Jets best player(CB Revis) out with an injury, the WR's for the Niners should have a good game. Niners win.
Titans vs Texans - The Texans are undefeated and look good. But at times its hard to believe they are contenders. The Titans are a tough team, but don't have a lot of talent. Texans should be on upset alert, but should still win. Texans win.
Bengals vs Jaguars - The Jags managed to beat the Colts last week but face a tougher team this week. The Bengals aren't a good team, but they are tough and should be too much for the Jags. Bengals win.
Dolphins vs Cardinals - So far the Cardinals have been the surprise of the season. They look pretty good, and they don't even have a decent QB. The Dolphins are better than expected, but are still a few years out from rebuilding. Cardinals win.
Raiders vs Broncos - Some weeks the Raiders look great, other weeks they look awful. Not sure what to expect. With the Broncos, they look great in the second half(just like last year) but they dig themselves into a whole early on. Not sure what to expect in this game, so I'll have to vote for Peyton to get a win. Broncos win.
Saints vs Packers - The Saints are just awful. I'm a life long Saints fan, and this season is one of the toughest so far. We should be great, but we are one of the worst in the league. The Packers should easily put over 40 points on sunday. This won't be close. Packers win.
Redskins vs Buccaneers - The Bucs defense isn't very good, and RG3 can do some damage. Redskins win.
Giants vs Eagles - This is a tough game to call, mainly because my friend is flying cross country to see this game. I'm going to say the Eagles win, but if they lose its not my fault. Eagles win.
Bears vs Cowboys - Not sure what either team can bring, but they Bears look to be the better team. Bears win.
Browns vs Ravens - This game will be closer than most think. Baltimore just came off a tough night game against the Patriots. But the Ravens will still show up and win. Ravens win.
Panthers vs Falcons - Atlanta may be one of the best teams in the NFL this year. We'll see how they play in a pressure situation, but for now its hard to bet against them. Falcons win.
Patriots vs Bills - The Pats have a losing record for the first time in a long, long time. Although its early they need a win. Their only win is coming against the lowly Titans. Luckily for the Pats, they get to play the Bills who keep finding players on the IR. - Pats win.
Vikings vs Lions - The Vikings had the upset of the season last week when they beat the Niners. The Lions lost to the Titans and QB Matt Stafford looks to be hurt, shocker I know. The question for the young Vikings team is if they can keep up their momentum. I think they do. Vikings win.
Chargers vs Chiefs - The Chargers have looked better than expected, and the Chiefs have done the opposite. Arrowhead stadium is a tough place to play, but my money is for the Chargers to avenge the beating they took last week. Chargers win.
Seahawks vs Rams - Seattle was given a win on monday, but they are still a good and very tough team. They nearly held the Packers without a TD on monday. They should be able to ink out a win and try to keep their momentum up. Seahawks win.
49ers vs Jets - The Niners were shocked by the Vikings on sunday. The Jets went to OT against the Dolphins. The Niners defense should shut down the Jets, and with the Jets best player(CB Revis) out with an injury, the WR's for the Niners should have a good game. Niners win.
Titans vs Texans - The Texans are undefeated and look good. But at times its hard to believe they are contenders. The Titans are a tough team, but don't have a lot of talent. Texans should be on upset alert, but should still win. Texans win.
Bengals vs Jaguars - The Jags managed to beat the Colts last week but face a tougher team this week. The Bengals aren't a good team, but they are tough and should be too much for the Jags. Bengals win.
Dolphins vs Cardinals - So far the Cardinals have been the surprise of the season. They look pretty good, and they don't even have a decent QB. The Dolphins are better than expected, but are still a few years out from rebuilding. Cardinals win.
Raiders vs Broncos - Some weeks the Raiders look great, other weeks they look awful. Not sure what to expect. With the Broncos, they look great in the second half(just like last year) but they dig themselves into a whole early on. Not sure what to expect in this game, so I'll have to vote for Peyton to get a win. Broncos win.
Saints vs Packers - The Saints are just awful. I'm a life long Saints fan, and this season is one of the toughest so far. We should be great, but we are one of the worst in the league. The Packers should easily put over 40 points on sunday. This won't be close. Packers win.
Redskins vs Buccaneers - The Bucs defense isn't very good, and RG3 can do some damage. Redskins win.
Giants vs Eagles - This is a tough game to call, mainly because my friend is flying cross country to see this game. I'm going to say the Eagles win, but if they lose its not my fault. Eagles win.
Bears vs Cowboys - Not sure what either team can bring, but they Bears look to be the better team. Bears win.
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Week 3 Picks
This past week I found myself with another mediocre 8-8 week for picks. Although with some of my wrong picks I'm happy, such as the Patriots getting upset by the Cardinals. We'll see if I do any better this coming week. Please comment with your own picks
Giants vs Panthers - There will be no shortage of offense in this game, Cam Newton is a fantasy owners dream, but he also has played two sub par defenses. I expect the defending champs to clamp down on D and hold off for a win. Giants win.
Rams vs Bears - The Bears will have ten days to think about their loss to the Packers, and to try and fix the offensive line woes. The Rams are a good team, but the Bears should handle this one. Bears win.
Bills vs Browns - The Browns almost upset the Bengals, but with a rookie QB I can't pick them just yet. The Bills have a good offense headlined by CJ Spiller, and he should have a great day. Bills win.
Buccaneers vs Cowboys - The Bucs nearly had the Giants last week, the Cowboys got embarassed by the Seahawks. Its a matter of which Cowboys will show up. I think the Bucs can pull it out and go to 2-1. Bucs win.
Jets vs Dolphins - The Jets didn't look great against the Steelers last week, and the Fins played well against the Raiders. Reggie Bush had a huge game and I expect him to do so again this week. Dolphins win.
49ers vs Vikings - This one should be easy. The Niners have thoroughly beaten two of the better teams in the NFC, now they get the Vikings. Niners win.
Chiefs vs Saints - One of these teams will be 0-3. Both teams have terrible defenses. Both teams should have a winning record. This may be a bit of a biased pick, but the Saints should win this one out and play with some heart. Saints win.
Bengals vs Redskins - Andy Dalton is a great game managing QB. RG3 is a fantastic QB to watch. If this is a low scoring game, Bengals win, if its high scoring then the Skins win. This game should be high scoring. Redskins win.
Lions vs Titans - If the Titans had more weapons at WR they would make this a great game, however they are lacking. The Lions are looking to get another win to stay in the race for the NFC north. Lions win.
Jaguars vs Colts - Colts have owned the Jags for years. Both teams have young QB's and are rebuilding. But I'll take Andrew Luck at home over the Jags. Colts win.
Eagles vs Cardinals - Both teams are undefeated, both teams are playing surprisingly well. If Philly can control their turnovers they will be a legit contender. I think they start to correct those issues this week. Eagles win.
Falcons vs Chargers - Chargers look good, which is a shock. Falcons look great which isn't. Its always tough to go out west on a short week. I think the Chargers can pull out a close upset. Chargers win.
Texans vs Broncos - This is Houstons first big test of the year, and I think they show that all the hype around the Broncos is not for real. Texans win.
Steelers vs Oakland - Steelers are looking to regain their swagger, Oakland just wants to be competitve. Steelers win.
Patriots vs Ravens - If the real Ravens show up, they win. If the Ravens that always let us down show up, they lose. Its very simple, the hard thing to figure out is which team shows up. I think the good Ravens show up and they avenge last years AFC championship game loss. Ravens win.
Packers vs Seahawks - This game will be much tougher than most will think. Seattle is competitve and they have a great home crowd and a great defense. However, I think this will be the coming out party for Aaron Rodgers as he regains his offensive supremacy. Packers win.
Last week 8-8
Season 16-16
Giants vs Panthers - There will be no shortage of offense in this game, Cam Newton is a fantasy owners dream, but he also has played two sub par defenses. I expect the defending champs to clamp down on D and hold off for a win. Giants win.
Rams vs Bears - The Bears will have ten days to think about their loss to the Packers, and to try and fix the offensive line woes. The Rams are a good team, but the Bears should handle this one. Bears win.
Bills vs Browns - The Browns almost upset the Bengals, but with a rookie QB I can't pick them just yet. The Bills have a good offense headlined by CJ Spiller, and he should have a great day. Bills win.
Buccaneers vs Cowboys - The Bucs nearly had the Giants last week, the Cowboys got embarassed by the Seahawks. Its a matter of which Cowboys will show up. I think the Bucs can pull it out and go to 2-1. Bucs win.
Jets vs Dolphins - The Jets didn't look great against the Steelers last week, and the Fins played well against the Raiders. Reggie Bush had a huge game and I expect him to do so again this week. Dolphins win.
49ers vs Vikings - This one should be easy. The Niners have thoroughly beaten two of the better teams in the NFC, now they get the Vikings. Niners win.
Chiefs vs Saints - One of these teams will be 0-3. Both teams have terrible defenses. Both teams should have a winning record. This may be a bit of a biased pick, but the Saints should win this one out and play with some heart. Saints win.
Bengals vs Redskins - Andy Dalton is a great game managing QB. RG3 is a fantastic QB to watch. If this is a low scoring game, Bengals win, if its high scoring then the Skins win. This game should be high scoring. Redskins win.
Lions vs Titans - If the Titans had more weapons at WR they would make this a great game, however they are lacking. The Lions are looking to get another win to stay in the race for the NFC north. Lions win.
Jaguars vs Colts - Colts have owned the Jags for years. Both teams have young QB's and are rebuilding. But I'll take Andrew Luck at home over the Jags. Colts win.
Eagles vs Cardinals - Both teams are undefeated, both teams are playing surprisingly well. If Philly can control their turnovers they will be a legit contender. I think they start to correct those issues this week. Eagles win.
Falcons vs Chargers - Chargers look good, which is a shock. Falcons look great which isn't. Its always tough to go out west on a short week. I think the Chargers can pull out a close upset. Chargers win.
Texans vs Broncos - This is Houstons first big test of the year, and I think they show that all the hype around the Broncos is not for real. Texans win.
Steelers vs Oakland - Steelers are looking to regain their swagger, Oakland just wants to be competitve. Steelers win.
Patriots vs Ravens - If the real Ravens show up, they win. If the Ravens that always let us down show up, they lose. Its very simple, the hard thing to figure out is which team shows up. I think the good Ravens show up and they avenge last years AFC championship game loss. Ravens win.
Packers vs Seahawks - This game will be much tougher than most will think. Seattle is competitve and they have a great home crowd and a great defense. However, I think this will be the coming out party for Aaron Rodgers as he regains his offensive supremacy. Packers win.
Last week 8-8
Season 16-16
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Week 2 Picks
So, last week my picks were pretty bad. The few upsets that I had did not go according to plan, and some of the guranteed wins were upset. However, I managed to pull the week even at 8-8 and things should improve as we see what each team can offer. So here are my picks. Again please comment with your picks or any upsets you see coming
Bears vs Packers - This is a deep and fantastic rivalry that has gotten a lot of attention recently because both teams are playing very well. The Packers are coming off of a loss to the 49ers at home and have got to be angry over some of the officiating. The Bears just beat up on the Colts and are looking for a real test this week. Although I have the Bears going to the Superbowl, the is no way the Packers lose two straight games to open the season, especially both of them being at home. It will be a good and close game however. Packers win.
Chiefs vs Bills - Both teams just got blown out last week. Bills are dealing with a lot of injuries, but should still be the better team. Its a close one, but Bills win.
Browns vs Bengals - The Browns almost upset the Eagles last week, the Bengals got embarassed by the Ravens. The Browns are still going to be starting rookie QB Weeden, and as long as he starts this season the Browns are going to lose. Bengals win.
Vikings vs Colts - Andrew Luck looked pretty good for his first game last week, but the offensive line did not. The Vikings have a good defense and some good weapons on offense. Vikings should win, but its close. Vikings win.
Saints vs Panthers - The Saints defense was shredded last week against the coming out party for RG3. Cam Newton will probably have a good game against the Saints weak defense, but Brees and Co should manage to put enough points up to win. Saints were asleep during the first half last week. I don't see the Saints falling to 0-2. Saints win.
Texans vs Jaguars - Houston looked pretty good against the Dolphins last week, but most teams do. They get another easy opponent this week and should cruise to a 2-0 start. Texans win.
Raiders vs Dolphins - Raiders lost a close one to the Chargers on Monday. With the Fins still going with a rookie QB the Raiders should notch a win, but it'll be closer than most people think. Raiders win.
Cardinals vs Patriots - The Cards inked out a win over the Seahawks last week. Now they get to play one of the best teams in the league. Kevin Kolb may have saved his job last week, but he could easily lose it this week. Patriots win.
Buccaneers vs Giants - The Giants have had ten days to think about their loss to the Cowboys. They should be ready to win, but they are the Giants. You never know what kind of ball they will play at the begining of the season. However, Eli doesn't let his team go 0-2. Giants win.
Ravens vs Eagles - The Eagles barely beat the lowly Browns. Vick threw 4 interceptions against a bad defense. The Ravens blew out a playoff team, Joe Flacco looked better than he's ever looked. Ravens win, and win easily. Eagles start to rethink their offensive gameplan. Ravens win.
Redskins vs Rams - RG3 should continue to amaze. The Rams will try hard, but in the end they will regret trading down for all those picks and not taking RG3. Skins win.
Cowboys vs Seahawks - The Cowboys are feeling good after beating the Giants. Seahawks almost beat the Cardinals, even though they were given 4 timeouts. Cowboys should win again, but only if their offense plays like they did last week. Romo is the key, and he should come through. Cowboys win.
Jets vs Steelers - The Jets surprised everyone when they put up 48 points against the Bills. Don't expect the same outporing of offense, but the Jets will get some scores in on the Steelers. However, the Steelers will be ready to put some points up of their own. An extra week of practice for WR Mike Wallace should help a lot, and should get his team the win. Steelers win,
Titans vs Chargers - The Chargers actually looked good last week. Maybe the Chargers can fingure out how to use the talent they have on both sides of the ball. The Titans still don't have many weapons at WR, and QB Jake Locker is hurt with a shoulder injury although he should play. Chargers should win and go to 2-0. Chargers win.
Lions vs 49ers - The Lions scraped by the Rams last week. Thats never something you want to hear about your team. The 49ers just went into Green Bay and solidly beat the Packers. 49ers win, and continue to show everyone that last year was not a fluke.
Broncos vs Falcons - Both teams played super well last week. This will be a good game and should be really close. However, I don't quite trust Matt Ryan to win a game like this, and Peyton Manning is back in a dome. Manning goes crazy and wills his team to a win, and a 2-0 start. Broncos win.
Last week: 8-8
Season: 8-8
Bears vs Packers - This is a deep and fantastic rivalry that has gotten a lot of attention recently because both teams are playing very well. The Packers are coming off of a loss to the 49ers at home and have got to be angry over some of the officiating. The Bears just beat up on the Colts and are looking for a real test this week. Although I have the Bears going to the Superbowl, the is no way the Packers lose two straight games to open the season, especially both of them being at home. It will be a good and close game however. Packers win.
Chiefs vs Bills - Both teams just got blown out last week. Bills are dealing with a lot of injuries, but should still be the better team. Its a close one, but Bills win.
Browns vs Bengals - The Browns almost upset the Eagles last week, the Bengals got embarassed by the Ravens. The Browns are still going to be starting rookie QB Weeden, and as long as he starts this season the Browns are going to lose. Bengals win.
Vikings vs Colts - Andrew Luck looked pretty good for his first game last week, but the offensive line did not. The Vikings have a good defense and some good weapons on offense. Vikings should win, but its close. Vikings win.
Saints vs Panthers - The Saints defense was shredded last week against the coming out party for RG3. Cam Newton will probably have a good game against the Saints weak defense, but Brees and Co should manage to put enough points up to win. Saints were asleep during the first half last week. I don't see the Saints falling to 0-2. Saints win.
Texans vs Jaguars - Houston looked pretty good against the Dolphins last week, but most teams do. They get another easy opponent this week and should cruise to a 2-0 start. Texans win.
Raiders vs Dolphins - Raiders lost a close one to the Chargers on Monday. With the Fins still going with a rookie QB the Raiders should notch a win, but it'll be closer than most people think. Raiders win.
Cardinals vs Patriots - The Cards inked out a win over the Seahawks last week. Now they get to play one of the best teams in the league. Kevin Kolb may have saved his job last week, but he could easily lose it this week. Patriots win.
Buccaneers vs Giants - The Giants have had ten days to think about their loss to the Cowboys. They should be ready to win, but they are the Giants. You never know what kind of ball they will play at the begining of the season. However, Eli doesn't let his team go 0-2. Giants win.
Ravens vs Eagles - The Eagles barely beat the lowly Browns. Vick threw 4 interceptions against a bad defense. The Ravens blew out a playoff team, Joe Flacco looked better than he's ever looked. Ravens win, and win easily. Eagles start to rethink their offensive gameplan. Ravens win.
Redskins vs Rams - RG3 should continue to amaze. The Rams will try hard, but in the end they will regret trading down for all those picks and not taking RG3. Skins win.
Cowboys vs Seahawks - The Cowboys are feeling good after beating the Giants. Seahawks almost beat the Cardinals, even though they were given 4 timeouts. Cowboys should win again, but only if their offense plays like they did last week. Romo is the key, and he should come through. Cowboys win.
Jets vs Steelers - The Jets surprised everyone when they put up 48 points against the Bills. Don't expect the same outporing of offense, but the Jets will get some scores in on the Steelers. However, the Steelers will be ready to put some points up of their own. An extra week of practice for WR Mike Wallace should help a lot, and should get his team the win. Steelers win,
Titans vs Chargers - The Chargers actually looked good last week. Maybe the Chargers can fingure out how to use the talent they have on both sides of the ball. The Titans still don't have many weapons at WR, and QB Jake Locker is hurt with a shoulder injury although he should play. Chargers should win and go to 2-0. Chargers win.
Lions vs 49ers - The Lions scraped by the Rams last week. Thats never something you want to hear about your team. The 49ers just went into Green Bay and solidly beat the Packers. 49ers win, and continue to show everyone that last year was not a fluke.
Broncos vs Falcons - Both teams played super well last week. This will be a good game and should be really close. However, I don't quite trust Matt Ryan to win a game like this, and Peyton Manning is back in a dome. Manning goes crazy and wills his team to a win, and a 2-0 start. Broncos win.
Last week: 8-8
Season: 8-8
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Week 1 predictions
Each week I'll be giving my predictions for the NFL games. I will give a small summary as to why. I'll keep track of my record, feel free to add comments with your own predictions
Cowboys vs Giants - No defending champ has lost their home opener since they started opening games on Thursday nights. This will be no different. Both teams are overrated in my book. Both teams have big holes. Close game, but Giants win.
Colts vs Bears - The Luck era begins in Indy. Sadly it will be with a loss. The Bears look really really good. Expect it to be a bad game for the Colts. Bears win.
Eagles vs Browns - The Browns will try rookie QB Weeden to start the season, and it won't go very well. The Eagles defense will confuse him into mistakes, which the offense will turn into points. Eagles win.
Patriots vs Titans - The Titans almost made the playoffs last season and should be better. Jake Locker should continue to grow. But Tom Brady will put up some big passing yards, and with no go to wide receivers for the Titans, it could get out of hand pretty quick. Patriots win.
Falcons vs Chiefs - Both teams should improve from last year. If the Chiefs can stay healthy they will be a tough team to beat, but the Falcons are the better team. Falcons win.
Jaguars vs Vikings - This game is not going to impress a lot of people. Both teams are in the rebuilding mode. Both teams have young QB's. The Jaguars have Blaine Gabbert, the Vikes have Christian Ponder. Vikes win based on the QB.
Redskins vs Saints - The Skins get to see what RG3 can do in the regular season, and he might put up some good numbers against a shaky Saints defense. But New Orleans should out score them by a fair margin. Saints win
Bills vs Jets - The Jets had a horrid pre season, and it may not be long before Tebow starts. But the Jets will go with Sanchez, and they will go with a loss. Bills win.
Rams vs Lions - The Rams get their first game with Jeff Fisher as head coach, and they get a tough match up with the Lions. The Rams will keep it close, but the Lions will pull through. Lions win
Dolphins vs Texans - The Dolphins are already looking forward to next season. The Texans are thinking of a Superbowl. Texans win.
49ers vs Packers - This is the game of the week, easily. Packers are most peoples picks to win it all. 49ers have a lot of love from the experts as well. Many people think it will come down to the Packers offense against the 49ers defense. But the game will be decided by the Packers defense and Alex Smith. Packers defense has a decent enough game to let the Packers win. Packers win.
Seahawks vs Cardinals - The Seahawks are trying to get better, while the Cards are trying to figure out which QB they play this season, and which QB they should draft next season. Cardinals win, but its close. Cardinals win.
Panthers vs Buccaneers - Will Cam Newton have the same slump that Josh Freeman had? Probably not, but it should be an exciting game with two teams trying to get better. Panthers win.
Steelers vs Broncos - Peyton Manning gets his first real game in Denver. It just happens to be against an aggressive defense that lost to this team in the playoffs. The Steelers are looking for revenge. The Broncos are going through a big change, from what was basically a high school offense, to an offense lead by Manning. Growing pains are going to be present for sure. Steelers win.
Bengals vs Ravens - Ravens have a lot of believers out there. They could be the team to beat in the AFC. The Bengals are coming off a great season and a full offseason with their team. The Bengals have always given the Ravens a hard time and it will be a tough game for both teams. Bengals win.
Chargers vs Raiders - The Chargers are the continual disappointment in the NFL. They should always be a good team, but never meet expectations. Coach Turner should have been fired a few seasons ago and as long as he is leading this team they will continue to fail. Raiders win.
Cowboys vs Giants - No defending champ has lost their home opener since they started opening games on Thursday nights. This will be no different. Both teams are overrated in my book. Both teams have big holes. Close game, but Giants win.
Colts vs Bears - The Luck era begins in Indy. Sadly it will be with a loss. The Bears look really really good. Expect it to be a bad game for the Colts. Bears win.
Eagles vs Browns - The Browns will try rookie QB Weeden to start the season, and it won't go very well. The Eagles defense will confuse him into mistakes, which the offense will turn into points. Eagles win.
Patriots vs Titans - The Titans almost made the playoffs last season and should be better. Jake Locker should continue to grow. But Tom Brady will put up some big passing yards, and with no go to wide receivers for the Titans, it could get out of hand pretty quick. Patriots win.
Falcons vs Chiefs - Both teams should improve from last year. If the Chiefs can stay healthy they will be a tough team to beat, but the Falcons are the better team. Falcons win.
Jaguars vs Vikings - This game is not going to impress a lot of people. Both teams are in the rebuilding mode. Both teams have young QB's. The Jaguars have Blaine Gabbert, the Vikes have Christian Ponder. Vikes win based on the QB.
Redskins vs Saints - The Skins get to see what RG3 can do in the regular season, and he might put up some good numbers against a shaky Saints defense. But New Orleans should out score them by a fair margin. Saints win
Bills vs Jets - The Jets had a horrid pre season, and it may not be long before Tebow starts. But the Jets will go with Sanchez, and they will go with a loss. Bills win.
Rams vs Lions - The Rams get their first game with Jeff Fisher as head coach, and they get a tough match up with the Lions. The Rams will keep it close, but the Lions will pull through. Lions win
Dolphins vs Texans - The Dolphins are already looking forward to next season. The Texans are thinking of a Superbowl. Texans win.
49ers vs Packers - This is the game of the week, easily. Packers are most peoples picks to win it all. 49ers have a lot of love from the experts as well. Many people think it will come down to the Packers offense against the 49ers defense. But the game will be decided by the Packers defense and Alex Smith. Packers defense has a decent enough game to let the Packers win. Packers win.
Seahawks vs Cardinals - The Seahawks are trying to get better, while the Cards are trying to figure out which QB they play this season, and which QB they should draft next season. Cardinals win, but its close. Cardinals win.
Panthers vs Buccaneers - Will Cam Newton have the same slump that Josh Freeman had? Probably not, but it should be an exciting game with two teams trying to get better. Panthers win.
Steelers vs Broncos - Peyton Manning gets his first real game in Denver. It just happens to be against an aggressive defense that lost to this team in the playoffs. The Steelers are looking for revenge. The Broncos are going through a big change, from what was basically a high school offense, to an offense lead by Manning. Growing pains are going to be present for sure. Steelers win.
Bengals vs Ravens - Ravens have a lot of believers out there. They could be the team to beat in the AFC. The Bengals are coming off a great season and a full offseason with their team. The Bengals have always given the Ravens a hard time and it will be a tough game for both teams. Bengals win.
Chargers vs Raiders - The Chargers are the continual disappointment in the NFL. They should always be a good team, but never meet expectations. Coach Turner should have been fired a few seasons ago and as long as he is leading this team they will continue to fail. Raiders win.
Friday, August 10, 2012
Has Showtime Returned?
I'm sure everyone has now heard, but Dwight Howard is now an LA Laker. Dwight Howard, by far the league's best center, has joined a team with Kobe Bryant, Steve Nash, and Pao Gasol. That's about as tough a lineup as any team can put out there.
The year long drama surrounding Dwight is now over, thank goodness. Dwight's now famously dubbed 'Indecision' has come to an end, for now. Dwight still has a year left on his contract and he may not stay in LA long term. The odds of Dwight leaving LA this year are about the same as for the Bobcats to win the NBA title this year, its not gonna happen. Players stay in LA because the Lakers simply win.
This off season has been a very busy one for LA, they fixed their two biggest weaknesses and kept all of their core players, except for Andrew Bynum who was a key part of the Dwight Howard trade. The Lakers struggled mightily at the point guard position. Derek Fisher and Ramon Sessions simply didn't cut it. The acquisition of Steve Nash, for garbage draft picks, is a gigantic upgrade.
Nash lead a team of overpaid and underachieving scrubs to within a game of reaching the playoffs. He had a great season, averaging 12 points a game and 10 assists. Not too shabby for a guy who is 38. Nash will be able to run the Laker offense and get everyone set up and make sure everyone gets plenty of touches. Sure, Nash is towards the end of his career, but given his stats from last season I don't think his age will be much of an issue. The Lakers should be more concerned about Nash's defense, or lack there of.
Don't get me wrong, I love Steve Nash. He is the closest player to John Stockton that the NBA has seen. He is selfless, a pass first point guard with a good jump shot. The biggest difference between the two is that John Stockton is one of the best defensive point guards of all time(Don't believe me, just look at how many steals he has, 3,265, and who is in second, Jason Kidd with 2,559.)
Nash is a poor defender, always has been, always will be. Nash will struggle to defend quicker and bigger guards. Chris Paul, Deron Williams, Derrick Rose(if he's healthy), and most importantly, Russell Westbrook. Westbrook is one of the fastest guards in the league, he is great at getting to the basket, using his speed and agility to break past a defender and score at the basket.
So what does LA do to counter for Nash's weak defense?
The simply acquire the best big man in the game, hands down. With Dwight Howard in the paint on defense, he can help deter and opposing players that try and break to the basket. Howard can protect the paint, grab rebounds and block shots better than nearly any other player in the league. The only other center in the league that's better on defense, in my opinion, is the Knicks Tyson Chandler(who won defensive player of the year).
The Lakers are always about winning, always have been and always will be. The past two seasons they have been bounced in the second round of the playoffs, so a change had to happen. The Lakers know that their biggest competition in the West is Oklahoma City. This is the team that beat them in 5 games during the playoffs. The Thunder went to the NBA finals, they are incredibly young, athletic and talented.
And if anyone recalls, the Thunder beat the Lakers by getting easy layups and dunks at the basket.
The Lakers just made an excellent counter move. With Howard in the middle the Thunder will no longer get easy looks at the basket. Oklahoma City will have to find new ways to score against the Lakers, and will need to find new ways to defend the now incredibly potent Laker offense.
So are the Lakers now the favorites in the West? Should they be favored to win the NBA title? Its hard to say at this point, but my instant reaction is this. The Lakers are now the best team in the West. With Nash running the offense, and running the pick and roll(second best P&R point guard in NBA history, behind Stockton) to set up easy looks to Kobe, Howard and Gasol, expect the offense to be one of the most efficient in the NBA.
I don't think the Lakers should be favored to win it all this year. I still anticipate the defending champs to repeat, and most likely face the Lakers in the Finals.
However, the Lakers are extremely relevant again, having added a top 5 point guard and the best center in the league. And to think they only gave up Andrew Bynum and a few draft picks for it.
Showtime is back, the Lakers are, again, huge contenders. Oklahoma City and San Antonio are going to struggle against the Lakers, simply because of their size and strength. Not to mention the addition of Nash, who can feed his teammates better than anyone in the league right now.
Many people are furious over this trade, they are upset because the Lakers always seem to get what they want. As a fan of the NBA, it is pointless to be upset over this trade. Its a done deal, time to move on and enjoy what should be an excellent NBA season that tips off at the end of October.
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