Some pretty good games this weekend. Condolences to anyone who took Maryland +13 and saw them blow a 42 14 lead AND go on to lose 56 42.. What a wild day of spread action. See if the big boys can match up...
St Louis -2.5
NY Jets -9
Cleveland +7
Texans -6
Carolina -3
Tampa +3
Minnesota +10
Chicago +3
Seattle -3
Philly +3
Denver +6
Pittsburgh -10.5
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Quick Picks- Week 11
After a long, taxing night in which I woke up spooning another guy... Here are my Week 11 NFL picks. Dont judge me.
Baltimore -7
Jacksonville +2
Detroit -6.5
Green Bay -13.5
Miami -3
Minnesota -2.5
Washington +7
San Francisco -10
Seattle +3
Atlanta -6
San Diego +4
Philly +6
New England -16.5
Teases that hit:
Atlanta (pk) / Jacksonville (+8)
Seattle (+9) / New England (-10.5)
Parlay that hits:
Jacksonvillle, San Francisco, New England
Feel good about my picks this week, let's see how this turns out..
Baltimore -7
Jacksonville +2
Detroit -6.5
Green Bay -13.5
Miami -3
Minnesota -2.5
Washington +7
San Francisco -10
Seattle +3
Atlanta -6
San Diego +4
Philly +6
New England -16.5
Teases that hit:
Atlanta (pk) / Jacksonville (+8)
Seattle (+9) / New England (-10.5)
Parlay that hits:
Jacksonvillle, San Francisco, New England
Feel good about my picks this week, let's see how this turns out..
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Is the seat hot for Andy Reid?
Andy Reid is 120-77-1 as the Philadelphia Eagles coach. He has been to five NFC Championship Games, one Superbowl and has made the Eagles into a perennial top team in the NFL. So, why, with that resume is Andy Reid on the hot seat?
Those who believe Andy's job is in trouble have a compelling argument. While Andy's teams are consistently contender's, he's never gotten us over the proverbial hump. His time management is among the worst in the league. He is usually near the bottom of the NFL in challenge efficiency. Despite his inefficiencies, Reid's Eagles teams were seemingly always in the playoff race, even without great talent. Then came July 29, 2011. That was the day the Eagles signed all-world cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha. Starting with that day, the Eagles went on a free-agent frenzy. They bolstered their lineup with guys like Cullen Jenkins, Jason Babin, Ronnie Brown, Steve Smith and of course, Vince Young. The Eagles were absolutely loaded heading into the 2011 season. They were picked as favorites to win the NFC East and many pegged them as the team most likely to represent the NFC in the Superbowl.
Now, we're here, November 16th. The Eagles are 3-6. Three and six. Three wins and six losses. The question now is, how much of the blame do you put on Andy Reid? The defense has been the biggest issue this season. Reid hired OFFENSIVE LINE COACH, Juan Castillo to oversee his defense. The defense hasn't been able to stop the run all year, and they haven't been near as good as advertised stopping the pass. They are effectively out of the playoffs, needing to win their last seven to even have a chance at sneaking in. Is it time for the winningest coach in Eagles history to be on his way?
There are arguments to be made for both sides. I have my opinion, I want to know what everyone else thinks. If the Eagles season continues to plummet, is it time for change in Philly? Let me know what you think.
Those who believe Andy's job is in trouble have a compelling argument. While Andy's teams are consistently contender's, he's never gotten us over the proverbial hump. His time management is among the worst in the league. He is usually near the bottom of the NFL in challenge efficiency. Despite his inefficiencies, Reid's Eagles teams were seemingly always in the playoff race, even without great talent. Then came July 29, 2011. That was the day the Eagles signed all-world cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha. Starting with that day, the Eagles went on a free-agent frenzy. They bolstered their lineup with guys like Cullen Jenkins, Jason Babin, Ronnie Brown, Steve Smith and of course, Vince Young. The Eagles were absolutely loaded heading into the 2011 season. They were picked as favorites to win the NFC East and many pegged them as the team most likely to represent the NFC in the Superbowl.
Now, we're here, November 16th. The Eagles are 3-6. Three and six. Three wins and six losses. The question now is, how much of the blame do you put on Andy Reid? The defense has been the biggest issue this season. Reid hired OFFENSIVE LINE COACH, Juan Castillo to oversee his defense. The defense hasn't been able to stop the run all year, and they haven't been near as good as advertised stopping the pass. They are effectively out of the playoffs, needing to win their last seven to even have a chance at sneaking in. Is it time for the winningest coach in Eagles history to be on his way?
There are arguments to be made for both sides. I have my opinion, I want to know what everyone else thinks. If the Eagles season continues to plummet, is it time for change in Philly? Let me know what you think.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
NFL Power Rankings : Week 11
Another week in the NFL down, another heartbreaking loss for the Eagles. The Eagles have blown a fourth quarter lead five times this year. I'm not going to waste my cyber breath talking about it, just listen to what this Birds fan has to say.
1. Packers (9-0) : Undefeated looks more and more likely with every passing week. They're just too good.
2. 49ers (8-1) : They took the Giants best shot, sans Frank Gore, and came away with the W. Enough talk about them not being for real. They are very good.
3. Saints (7-3) : Huge win over Atlanta makes me a believer this is the best team in the NFC South.
4. Patriots (6-3) : Bill Belichick after hanging 37 on the Jets: "Best defense in the league? Suck my dick." That says everything you need to know about the Pats. Awesome.
5. Ravens (6-3) : Every time I am ready to call the Ravens elite, they blow a game to a bad team. Their losses this year: Titans, Jaguars, Seahawks. Combined record of 11-16. Ouch.
6. Steelers (7-3) : Can't put them in front of Baltimore. But they got a big win over a tough Cincy team. Antonio Brown & Mike Wallace is becoming a scary-good duo.
7. Giants (6-3) : I feel like this is low for them. Is Eli the second best QB in the NFL this year? There can certainly be a case made for him. I can't believe I just typed that sentence.
8. Texans (7-3) : The Texans finish 8-8 every year, with Matt Leinart taking over they have a shot to do it again!
9. Bears (6-3) : Goodell should fine punters every time they kick to Hester. I'm still not buying the Bears, but looking at their schedule, 11 wins seems very possible.
10. Bengals (6-3) : They lost to the Steelers, but they hung tough and if AJ Green didn't get hurt after Mossing Ryan Clark, who knows what might have happened. I believe in the Red Rifle.
11. Cowboys (5-4) : That blowout loss to the Eagles seems like forever ago. Romo is on fire and DeMarco Murray looks like a borderline top 10 back.
12. Lions (6-3) : If Stafford is starting to get dinged up, the Lions could be in some trouble. Not an easy schedule the rest of the way, including two against GB.
13. Falcons (5-4) : Am I alone in thinking Mike Smith made the right call on 4th down? Way to have a nutsack, Mike. I respect you. So does Chip Kelly.
14. Jets (5-4) : Pretenders? I'm starting to lean that way. It's tough to count out a team that keeps making the AFC Championship, even if their quarterback sucks.
15. Raiders (5-4) : A weak division coupled with what looks like a dominant running game makes me think the Raiders are heading to the playoffs.
16. Titans (5-4) : There is nothing fun about this team. They're not fun to write about, fun to watch or fun to rank.
17. Broncos (4-5) : Tebow. Can they beat the Jets and keep pace in the AFC West? Tebow can walk on water and turn water to wine, so why not? Tebow Tebow Tebow, TEBOW!!!
18. Bills (5-4) : They're slipping. If they lose to the Dolphins this weekend, it's over. Sorry Buffalo, your city still sucks.
19. Chargers (4-5) : Is this the year where the second half surge just never happens? I'm beginning to think so. Regardless, it's awesome to see a QB cuss out his coach.
20. Buccaneers (4-5) : This is the first team that I think really sucks. The first 19 I could see possibly winning a playoff game. Everyone from 20 down should start the scouting process.
21. Seahawks (3-6) : They've beaten the Giants and Ravens and Marshawn Lynch looks rejuvenated. If this was the NFC West last year, they'd be in first place.
22. Cardinals (3-6) : John Skelton is 2-0 as a NFL starter. When he was drafted, I took under 2 snaps he'd ever see in the NFL. Another loss for me.
23. Eagles (3-6) : Claude Giroux is a top five player in hockey and Jagr is really embracing this playmaker role. I love this Flyers team.
24. Chiefs (4-5) : Tyler Palko is their starting QB, right? I'd rather have Shane Falco.
25. Jaguars (3-6) : I know this isn't a team loaded with weapons, but does anyone really watch their games and think Blaine Gabbert is the future?
26. Dolphins (2-7) : Matt Moore. I like him. If it's possible to be optimistic about a 2-7 team, I am optimistic about the Matt Moore/Reggie Bush led Dolphins.
27. Redskins (3-6) : Grossman and Beck both suck. You knew that already? I have nothing else to say.
28. Panthers (2-7) : Cam Newton coming back to earth? I'm not sure. I still like him, and the Panthers more than the next four sacks of shit on the list.
29. Vikings (2-7) : I was ready to give them a sizable bump up the rankings before they got defiled by the Packers.
30. Rams (2-7) : Enough whining about your injuries St Louis. It's the NFL. Babies.
31. Browns (3-6) : Man, Cleveland really sucks huh? Cleveland State beat Vandy the other day, so there's that.
32. Colts (0-10) : Curtis Painter or Dan Orlovsky? That's like asking if you'd rather be anally raped by Ving Rhames or Shaq.
1. Packers (9-0) : Undefeated looks more and more likely with every passing week. They're just too good.
2. 49ers (8-1) : They took the Giants best shot, sans Frank Gore, and came away with the W. Enough talk about them not being for real. They are very good.
3. Saints (7-3) : Huge win over Atlanta makes me a believer this is the best team in the NFC South.
4. Patriots (6-3) : Bill Belichick after hanging 37 on the Jets: "Best defense in the league? Suck my dick." That says everything you need to know about the Pats. Awesome.
5. Ravens (6-3) : Every time I am ready to call the Ravens elite, they blow a game to a bad team. Their losses this year: Titans, Jaguars, Seahawks. Combined record of 11-16. Ouch.
6. Steelers (7-3) : Can't put them in front of Baltimore. But they got a big win over a tough Cincy team. Antonio Brown & Mike Wallace is becoming a scary-good duo.
7. Giants (6-3) : I feel like this is low for them. Is Eli the second best QB in the NFL this year? There can certainly be a case made for him. I can't believe I just typed that sentence.
8. Texans (7-3) : The Texans finish 8-8 every year, with Matt Leinart taking over they have a shot to do it again!
9. Bears (6-3) : Goodell should fine punters every time they kick to Hester. I'm still not buying the Bears, but looking at their schedule, 11 wins seems very possible.
10. Bengals (6-3) : They lost to the Steelers, but they hung tough and if AJ Green didn't get hurt after Mossing Ryan Clark, who knows what might have happened. I believe in the Red Rifle.
11. Cowboys (5-4) : That blowout loss to the Eagles seems like forever ago. Romo is on fire and DeMarco Murray looks like a borderline top 10 back.
12. Lions (6-3) : If Stafford is starting to get dinged up, the Lions could be in some trouble. Not an easy schedule the rest of the way, including two against GB.
13. Falcons (5-4) : Am I alone in thinking Mike Smith made the right call on 4th down? Way to have a nutsack, Mike. I respect you. So does Chip Kelly.
14. Jets (5-4) : Pretenders? I'm starting to lean that way. It's tough to count out a team that keeps making the AFC Championship, even if their quarterback sucks.
15. Raiders (5-4) : A weak division coupled with what looks like a dominant running game makes me think the Raiders are heading to the playoffs.
16. Titans (5-4) : There is nothing fun about this team. They're not fun to write about, fun to watch or fun to rank.
17. Broncos (4-5) : Tebow. Can they beat the Jets and keep pace in the AFC West? Tebow can walk on water and turn water to wine, so why not? Tebow Tebow Tebow, TEBOW!!!
18. Bills (5-4) : They're slipping. If they lose to the Dolphins this weekend, it's over. Sorry Buffalo, your city still sucks.
19. Chargers (4-5) : Is this the year where the second half surge just never happens? I'm beginning to think so. Regardless, it's awesome to see a QB cuss out his coach.
20. Buccaneers (4-5) : This is the first team that I think really sucks. The first 19 I could see possibly winning a playoff game. Everyone from 20 down should start the scouting process.
21. Seahawks (3-6) : They've beaten the Giants and Ravens and Marshawn Lynch looks rejuvenated. If this was the NFC West last year, they'd be in first place.
22. Cardinals (3-6) : John Skelton is 2-0 as a NFL starter. When he was drafted, I took under 2 snaps he'd ever see in the NFL. Another loss for me.
23. Eagles (3-6) : Claude Giroux is a top five player in hockey and Jagr is really embracing this playmaker role. I love this Flyers team.
24. Chiefs (4-5) : Tyler Palko is their starting QB, right? I'd rather have Shane Falco.
25. Jaguars (3-6) : I know this isn't a team loaded with weapons, but does anyone really watch their games and think Blaine Gabbert is the future?
26. Dolphins (2-7) : Matt Moore. I like him. If it's possible to be optimistic about a 2-7 team, I am optimistic about the Matt Moore/Reggie Bush led Dolphins.
27. Redskins (3-6) : Grossman and Beck both suck. You knew that already? I have nothing else to say.
28. Panthers (2-7) : Cam Newton coming back to earth? I'm not sure. I still like him, and the Panthers more than the next four sacks of shit on the list.
29. Vikings (2-7) : I was ready to give them a sizable bump up the rankings before they got defiled by the Packers.
30. Rams (2-7) : Enough whining about your injuries St Louis. It's the NFL. Babies.
31. Browns (3-6) : Man, Cleveland really sucks huh? Cleveland State beat Vandy the other day, so there's that.
32. Colts (0-10) : Curtis Painter or Dan Orlovsky? That's like asking if you'd rather be anally raped by Ving Rhames or Shaq.
Monday, November 14, 2011
College Hoops Marathon
The past three years of my life, I've spent somewhere between 22 and 24 hours watching the college basketball tipoff marathon. I usually did this with the combination of some Red Bull, Adderall XR and a lack of caring about attending classes. Sadly, due to other, more grown up commitments, I will not be able to enjoy every hour of the marathon this year. It's funny, the only time I ever get upset about growing up and attempting to become a man is when I miss out on sports. Missing about eight hours of college basketball, well, that makes me upset. It makes me yearn for sitting on an old ratty couch, eating stale potato chips and fighting off fatigue for 24 hours. At midnight tonight when the ESPN College Basketball marathon tips off, I'll be doing my best to make it to halftime. For anyone out there who has the ambition and schedule to watch 24 straight hours of college hoops, enjoy it. Because unless you're first job out of college is going to be working beside Jay Bilas or Andy Katz, the glory days are coming to an end soon.
Here's a breakdown of the 19 games ESPN will be showing over the next 24 hours.
12am: Washington State @ No. 23 Gonzaga(-11)
The Cougs lost Klay Thompson to the NBA(kinda) and aren't very good. Gonzaga has some talent back and should roll pretty easily.
Watchability: 7.5
Prediction: Zags -11
2am: Northern Iowa @ St. Mary's(-11)
Can't say I know anything about either team. I wish Ali Farokmanesh(sp?) was playing, though. Two of the more well known mid-majors in the country, should be a good game filled with good white guys.
Watchability: 2(The time kills it! I wish this game was at 2PM)
Prediction: Northern Iowa +11
4am: Cal State Northridge @ Hawaii
A couple years ago, I caught a glimpse of a stud for Hawaii at about 5am. Sadly I won't see a second of this game. And there is no line. So really, nobody outside of Hawaii and Cal State No cares about this one.
Watchability: 1
Prediction: Hawaii
6am: Drexel @ Rider
Drexel is always good and Rider only lost to Pittsburgh by 8. I'm hoping to catch the end of this game over some Apple Jacks. Might have to sacrifice a shower to do so(like I've never done that before.)
Watchability: 4.5
Prediction: Dragons
8am: Morehead State @ Charleston
The only thing I know about this game is they both lost studs to the NBA. This is a game for the second shifters.
Watchability: 2
Prediction: Morehead State
10am: Kent State @ West Virginia
Kent State returns everyone, except Antonio Gates, and West Virginia is not the WVU it has been in the past couple years. Sadly, this game is not at all watchable for me, but maybe a couple gamecast updates?
Watchability: 0
Prediction: Golden Flashes win!
12pm: Belmont @ No. 10 Memphis
Belmont is a very, very good squad and of course Memphis is as well. I'm not prepared to say that Belmont wins the game, but this is no cakewalk for Memphis. If we get a little overtime, I may have a shot to catch the end.
Watchability: 4(Time slot hurts, this is a 8 or 8.5 otherwise)
Prediction: Memphis in a tight one.
2pm: San Diego State @ No. 12 Baylor
San Diego State is off the best season in program history, and this season ain't gonna match up. Baylor is loaded with NBA talent along the frontcourt and has National Championship thoughts.
Watchability: 8
Prediction: Baylor in a blowout.
4pm: Rhode Island @ Texas
Rhode Island is about as mediocre as it gets, and might not even be that good this year. Texas lost ALOT. However, they do bring in this guy.
Watchability: 6
Prediction: Texas
6pm: George Mason @ Virgina Tech
Again, neither team is expected to accomplish a whole lot this year, but this is the dinner game anyway. Nobody will be paying close attention unless its close at the end. Me included.
Watchability: 0
Prediction: I'll be attending a D3 hoops game instead.
7pm: Albany or Brown @ No. 5 Syracuse
I don't even know what Albany's mascot is, so I'll predict Brown to win that game and then get wrecked by a Cuse team that I don't think deserves their Top 5 ranking.
Watchability: 4.5 (for Rakeem Christmas alone)
Prediction: Cuse big.
7pm: No. 6 Duke vs Michigan State at MSG
Our first big time game of the marathon and I'm guaranteed to miss at least the first half. I'm pretty excited to see if Austin Rivers has "it". And this game will get alot of hype because that rat look-a-like will be going for his 903rd career win. Lets Go State!
Watchability: First Half- 0 / Second Half- 8.8
Prediction: Duke by 8
7pm: Rutgers @ Miami
Did anyone else know Jim Larranga is Miami's coach? Awesome. I actually like both of these coaches more than I like the game. I'm gonna miss most of this game, though. Oh well.
Watchability: 1
Prediction: Rutgers wins this one.
7pm: La Salle @ Villanova
A Big 5 game, love it! I'm a Nova backer, but I don't think they are going to be great this year. Wayans is a super stud and Yarou is going to be a beast this year. LaSalle isn't on the same level as Nova talent-wise and it'll show here.
Watchability: 2.5
Prediction: Nova big.
8pm: No. 8 Florida @ No. 3 Ohio State
The marquee game of the marathon. A bevy of talent on both sides. OSU has unanimous preseason All America center Jared Sullinger. And Florida has Erving Walker, Kenny Boynton and Mike Rosario in the backcourt. This game should be a great one.
Watchability: 9.5
Prediction: Florida in a squeaker.
8pm: Arkansas Pine Bluff @ Oklahoma State
I think Oklahoma State's football team will score more points this coming weekend than either of these teams tomorrow night.
Watchability: 3
Prediction: OK State
9pm: No. 2 Kentucky vs No. 11 Kansas at MSG
Another great game. Kentucky's recruiting class is unbelievable. With all due respect to UNC(who I am absolutely impressed by), the most talented team in the country hails from Lexington. I'm ecstatic to see all this talent on the court. Kansas isn't loaded like they usually are but they have talent and will absolutely give this Kentucky team a great early season test.
Watchability: 9.9
Prediction: The more experienced Jayhawks beat the more talented Wildcats.
10pm: Austin Peay @ No. 22 California
Cal is unusually talented, and should be a frontrunner to win the Pac12. Austin Peay, unless Trenton Hassell plays, is not going to be in this one.
Watchability: 5
Prediction: Cal dominates.
11pm: Colorado State at Stanford
I'll be trying to battle through this game but the combination of fatigue and a shitty game will probably have me watching whatever my girlfriend wants to, such is life.
Watchability: 3
Prediction: Sleep.
*Check back tomorrow when I post the lines for the night games. Until midnight, check out this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zB2KOhEceNM
Here's a breakdown of the 19 games ESPN will be showing over the next 24 hours.
12am: Washington State @ No. 23 Gonzaga(-11)
The Cougs lost Klay Thompson to the NBA(kinda) and aren't very good. Gonzaga has some talent back and should roll pretty easily.
Watchability: 7.5
Prediction: Zags -11
2am: Northern Iowa @ St. Mary's(-11)
Can't say I know anything about either team. I wish Ali Farokmanesh(sp?) was playing, though. Two of the more well known mid-majors in the country, should be a good game filled with good white guys.
Watchability: 2(The time kills it! I wish this game was at 2PM)
Prediction: Northern Iowa +11
4am: Cal State Northridge @ Hawaii
A couple years ago, I caught a glimpse of a stud for Hawaii at about 5am. Sadly I won't see a second of this game. And there is no line. So really, nobody outside of Hawaii and Cal State No cares about this one.
Watchability: 1
Prediction: Hawaii
6am: Drexel @ Rider
Drexel is always good and Rider only lost to Pittsburgh by 8. I'm hoping to catch the end of this game over some Apple Jacks. Might have to sacrifice a shower to do so(like I've never done that before.)
Watchability: 4.5
Prediction: Dragons
8am: Morehead State @ Charleston
The only thing I know about this game is they both lost studs to the NBA. This is a game for the second shifters.
Watchability: 2
Prediction: Morehead State
10am: Kent State @ West Virginia
Kent State returns everyone, except Antonio Gates, and West Virginia is not the WVU it has been in the past couple years. Sadly, this game is not at all watchable for me, but maybe a couple gamecast updates?
Watchability: 0
Prediction: Golden Flashes win!
12pm: Belmont @ No. 10 Memphis
Belmont is a very, very good squad and of course Memphis is as well. I'm not prepared to say that Belmont wins the game, but this is no cakewalk for Memphis. If we get a little overtime, I may have a shot to catch the end.
Watchability: 4(Time slot hurts, this is a 8 or 8.5 otherwise)
Prediction: Memphis in a tight one.
2pm: San Diego State @ No. 12 Baylor
San Diego State is off the best season in program history, and this season ain't gonna match up. Baylor is loaded with NBA talent along the frontcourt and has National Championship thoughts.
Watchability: 8
Prediction: Baylor in a blowout.
4pm: Rhode Island @ Texas
Rhode Island is about as mediocre as it gets, and might not even be that good this year. Texas lost ALOT. However, they do bring in this guy.
Watchability: 6
Prediction: Texas
6pm: George Mason @ Virgina Tech
Again, neither team is expected to accomplish a whole lot this year, but this is the dinner game anyway. Nobody will be paying close attention unless its close at the end. Me included.
Watchability: 0
Prediction: I'll be attending a D3 hoops game instead.
7pm: Albany or Brown @ No. 5 Syracuse
I don't even know what Albany's mascot is, so I'll predict Brown to win that game and then get wrecked by a Cuse team that I don't think deserves their Top 5 ranking.
Watchability: 4.5 (for Rakeem Christmas alone)
Prediction: Cuse big.
7pm: No. 6 Duke vs Michigan State at MSG
Our first big time game of the marathon and I'm guaranteed to miss at least the first half. I'm pretty excited to see if Austin Rivers has "it". And this game will get alot of hype because that rat look-a-like will be going for his 903rd career win. Lets Go State!
Watchability: First Half- 0 / Second Half- 8.8
Prediction: Duke by 8
7pm: Rutgers @ Miami
Did anyone else know Jim Larranga is Miami's coach? Awesome. I actually like both of these coaches more than I like the game. I'm gonna miss most of this game, though. Oh well.
Watchability: 1
Prediction: Rutgers wins this one.
7pm: La Salle @ Villanova
A Big 5 game, love it! I'm a Nova backer, but I don't think they are going to be great this year. Wayans is a super stud and Yarou is going to be a beast this year. LaSalle isn't on the same level as Nova talent-wise and it'll show here.
Watchability: 2.5
Prediction: Nova big.
8pm: No. 8 Florida @ No. 3 Ohio State
The marquee game of the marathon. A bevy of talent on both sides. OSU has unanimous preseason All America center Jared Sullinger. And Florida has Erving Walker, Kenny Boynton and Mike Rosario in the backcourt. This game should be a great one.
Watchability: 9.5
Prediction: Florida in a squeaker.
8pm: Arkansas Pine Bluff @ Oklahoma State
I think Oklahoma State's football team will score more points this coming weekend than either of these teams tomorrow night.
Watchability: 3
Prediction: OK State
9pm: No. 2 Kentucky vs No. 11 Kansas at MSG
Another great game. Kentucky's recruiting class is unbelievable. With all due respect to UNC(who I am absolutely impressed by), the most talented team in the country hails from Lexington. I'm ecstatic to see all this talent on the court. Kansas isn't loaded like they usually are but they have talent and will absolutely give this Kentucky team a great early season test.
Watchability: 9.9
Prediction: The more experienced Jayhawks beat the more talented Wildcats.
10pm: Austin Peay @ No. 22 California
Cal is unusually talented, and should be a frontrunner to win the Pac12. Austin Peay, unless Trenton Hassell plays, is not going to be in this one.
Watchability: 5
Prediction: Cal dominates.
11pm: Colorado State at Stanford
I'll be trying to battle through this game but the combination of fatigue and a shitty game will probably have me watching whatever my girlfriend wants to, such is life.
Watchability: 3
Prediction: Sleep.
*Check back tomorrow when I post the lines for the night games. Until midnight, check out this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zB2KOhEceNM
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Week 10 Quick Picks
Went with the quick picks last weekend instead of my boring, bullshit explanations. Got off to a 1-0 start with the Raiders on Thursday, lets see if I can keep it going:
Pittsburgh -4
Denver +3
Jacksonville -3
Dallas -5
Houston -3.5
Carolina-3.5
Miami -4
New Orleans+1
Detroit +2.5
St Louis +2.5
Arizona +13.5
Baltimore -6.5
San Francisco -3
New England +2.5
Minnesota +12
Teases I love:
Baltimore (pk) / New England (+8.5)
New Orleans (+7) / (Detroit +8.5)
Three Team Parlay that hits:
Pittsburgh/New Orleans/New England
Check out http://www.pickinsplinters.com/2011/11/10/nfl-week-10-pickem/ for my man Soaps' predictions and surf the site for other good content and debates.
Pittsburgh -4
Denver +3
Jacksonville -3
Dallas -5
Houston -3.5
Carolina-3.5
Miami -4
New Orleans+1
Detroit +2.5
St Louis +2.5
Arizona +13.5
Baltimore -6.5
San Francisco -3
New England +2.5
Minnesota +12
Teases I love:
Baltimore (pk) / New England (+8.5)
New Orleans (+7) / (Detroit +8.5)
Three Team Parlay that hits:
Pittsburgh/New Orleans/New England
Check out http://www.pickinsplinters.com/2011/11/10/nfl-week-10-pickem/ for my man Soaps' predictions and surf the site for other good content and debates.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
NFL Power Rankings
Everyone knows that writing in lists is lazy. Everyone knows I'm lazy. Therefore, I like writing in lists. On to the Power Rankings!
1. Packers (8-0) : Rodgers could tear every ligament in both knees Sunday and still get my vote for MVP. He's that good.
2. 49ers (7-1) : I know they haven't exactly killed the eye test but Harbaugh has made Alex Smith into a great manager. They can run the ball and don't let anyone else do it. Recipe for success.
3. Ravens (6-2) : Two wins over the Steelers, a beatdown of the Texans, and Terrell Suggs. That's enough for the #3 spot in my book.
4. Steelers (6-3) : Despite losing to the Ravens twice, it would be stupid to count out Ben. They'll be there at the end of the season.
5. Giants (6-2) : Bitch-ass Eli Manning keeps winning. I don't know if there's ever been an athlete I want to spit on as much as Eli.
6. Saints (6-3) : Drew Brees has 3000 passing yards. Marino's record is going down.
7. Texans (6-3) : Matt Schaub hasn't looked good(neither would you if Kevin Walter was your go to guy) but man they have some beasts in the backfield.
8. Lions (6-2): I am withholding judgement on Detroit until I am laying on my floor covered in turkey gravy watching them play Green Bay.
9. Patriots (5-3) : Two straight losses for the Pats? Unheard of. I'm saying they don't lose another game until Week 17.
10. Bengals (6-2) : The Cincinnati Bengals are leading the AFC North. And they have a red-headed quarterback. Love it.
11. Jets (5-3) : If I have to hear anyone talk about the Jets "swagger" any more, I'll lose my mind. Darrelle Revis is good.
12. Falcons (5-3) : Beat the Saints and they're probably moving into my top ten. If they don't, I say they're a pretender.
13. Bills (5-3) : Playoff hopes slipping away with every Ryan Fitzpatrick dropback. There's a reason most quarterbacks don't come from the Ivy League... they suck.
14. Cowboys (4-4) : Confusing team. I think DeMarco Murray is the truth, though. I think they are going to catch the Giants, if they beat the Bills this weekend.
15. Bears (5-3) : Maybe a little bit too low, but I can't put too much faith in Cutler and their receivers. Matt Forte might be second in my unofficial MVP voting though.
16. Chargers (4-4) : Typical San Diego. Start's the season like a bunch of whale vaginas. They'll finish strong, as always.
17. Eagles (3-5) : Fuck 'em.
18. Buccaneers (4-4) : If they can just stay close in the South, I think Freeman can sneak 'em in. Kind of a big if though.
19. Raiders (4-4) : As much as they gave up in the Palmer trade, I like it. Chance to win the division, might as well go for it.
20. Chiefs (4-4) : Has there ever been a 4-4 team with so few good players? I can't believe I put them this high? Where's Tebow?
21. Broncos (3-5) : Why not? They're 2-1 with Tebow. Man, I hope they win the division, just so I can see Skip Bayless and Merrill Hoge and Mark Schlereth's smug ass faces.
22. Titans (4-4) : Hey, I found a 4-4 team with even less good players than the Chiefs. Who is the Titans best player, anyway?
23. Panthers (2-6) : I was empty inside without Cam Newton last Sunday. Glad to have ya back, Cam.
24. Vikings (2-6) : I like Christian Ponder. If Percy Harvin was still on the team they could be good... wait.
25. Redskins (3-5) : Great move by Shanahan benching Sexy Rexy. Why would anyone hire this douchebag to be their coach. He sucks.
26. Browns (3-5) : By far, the most boring team to watch in the NFL. $5 bucks for anyone who can name their coach.
27. Seahawks (2-6) : I don't think Marshawn Lynch is going to make any highlight runs in the playoffs this year.
28. Jaguars (2-6) : Relocate. Can we get a NFL team in Vegas, already?
29. Cardinals (2-6) : Kevin Kolb and a 2nd rd pick for Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie: Each team thought they were robbing the other. Turns out, every player in the deal sucks!
30. Dolphins (1-7) : No bullshit, I actually like Matt Moore. It's like no one told him that everyone else on the team is trying to lose.
31. Rams (1-7) : Would they really be any better if guys didn't get hurt? It's not like they were pegged for 12 wins.
32. Colts (0-9): Jim Caldwell is the worst coach in the long history of the NFL.
Agree? Disagree? Lemme know.
1. Packers (8-0) : Rodgers could tear every ligament in both knees Sunday and still get my vote for MVP. He's that good.
2. 49ers (7-1) : I know they haven't exactly killed the eye test but Harbaugh has made Alex Smith into a great manager. They can run the ball and don't let anyone else do it. Recipe for success.
3. Ravens (6-2) : Two wins over the Steelers, a beatdown of the Texans, and Terrell Suggs. That's enough for the #3 spot in my book.
4. Steelers (6-3) : Despite losing to the Ravens twice, it would be stupid to count out Ben. They'll be there at the end of the season.
5. Giants (6-2) : Bitch-ass Eli Manning keeps winning. I don't know if there's ever been an athlete I want to spit on as much as Eli.
6. Saints (6-3) : Drew Brees has 3000 passing yards. Marino's record is going down.
7. Texans (6-3) : Matt Schaub hasn't looked good(neither would you if Kevin Walter was your go to guy) but man they have some beasts in the backfield.
8. Lions (6-2): I am withholding judgement on Detroit until I am laying on my floor covered in turkey gravy watching them play Green Bay.
9. Patriots (5-3) : Two straight losses for the Pats? Unheard of. I'm saying they don't lose another game until Week 17.
10. Bengals (6-2) : The Cincinnati Bengals are leading the AFC North. And they have a red-headed quarterback. Love it.
11. Jets (5-3) : If I have to hear anyone talk about the Jets "swagger" any more, I'll lose my mind. Darrelle Revis is good.
12. Falcons (5-3) : Beat the Saints and they're probably moving into my top ten. If they don't, I say they're a pretender.
13. Bills (5-3) : Playoff hopes slipping away with every Ryan Fitzpatrick dropback. There's a reason most quarterbacks don't come from the Ivy League... they suck.
14. Cowboys (4-4) : Confusing team. I think DeMarco Murray is the truth, though. I think they are going to catch the Giants, if they beat the Bills this weekend.
15. Bears (5-3) : Maybe a little bit too low, but I can't put too much faith in Cutler and their receivers. Matt Forte might be second in my unofficial MVP voting though.
16. Chargers (4-4) : Typical San Diego. Start's the season like a bunch of whale vaginas. They'll finish strong, as always.
17. Eagles (3-5) : Fuck 'em.
18. Buccaneers (4-4) : If they can just stay close in the South, I think Freeman can sneak 'em in. Kind of a big if though.
19. Raiders (4-4) : As much as they gave up in the Palmer trade, I like it. Chance to win the division, might as well go for it.
20. Chiefs (4-4) : Has there ever been a 4-4 team with so few good players? I can't believe I put them this high? Where's Tebow?
21. Broncos (3-5) : Why not? They're 2-1 with Tebow. Man, I hope they win the division, just so I can see Skip Bayless and Merrill Hoge and Mark Schlereth's smug ass faces.
22. Titans (4-4) : Hey, I found a 4-4 team with even less good players than the Chiefs. Who is the Titans best player, anyway?
23. Panthers (2-6) : I was empty inside without Cam Newton last Sunday. Glad to have ya back, Cam.
24. Vikings (2-6) : I like Christian Ponder. If Percy Harvin was still on the team they could be good... wait.
25. Redskins (3-5) : Great move by Shanahan benching Sexy Rexy. Why would anyone hire this douchebag to be their coach. He sucks.
26. Browns (3-5) : By far, the most boring team to watch in the NFL. $5 bucks for anyone who can name their coach.
27. Seahawks (2-6) : I don't think Marshawn Lynch is going to make any highlight runs in the playoffs this year.
28. Jaguars (2-6) : Relocate. Can we get a NFL team in Vegas, already?
29. Cardinals (2-6) : Kevin Kolb and a 2nd rd pick for Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie: Each team thought they were robbing the other. Turns out, every player in the deal sucks!
30. Dolphins (1-7) : No bullshit, I actually like Matt Moore. It's like no one told him that everyone else on the team is trying to lose.
31. Rams (1-7) : Would they really be any better if guys didn't get hurt? It's not like they were pegged for 12 wins.
32. Colts (0-9): Jim Caldwell is the worst coach in the long history of the NFL.
Agree? Disagree? Lemme know.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Quick Picks
Miami +4
Tampa +8.5
Atlanta -6.5
Houston -10.5
Buffalo -2.5
San Fran -4
Dallas -11
Cincinnati +2.5
Oakland -7
NYG +9
Arizona -2.5
San Diego +5.5
Baltimore +3
Philadelphia -9
Favorite games: Buffalo, Arizona, Dallas.
Back to back losing weeks, fixing that this Sunday.
Tampa +8.5
Atlanta -6.5
Houston -10.5
Buffalo -2.5
San Fran -4
Dallas -11
Cincinnati +2.5
Oakland -7
NYG +9
Arizona -2.5
San Diego +5.5
Baltimore +3
Philadelphia -9
Favorite games: Buffalo, Arizona, Dallas.
Back to back losing weeks, fixing that this Sunday.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Boise in the NC
A hypothetical look at how Boise State can make the National Championship:
WEEK 10
No. 2 Alabama over No. 1 LSU: Really, it doesn't matter which of these teams wins or loses for Boise's sake. I personally think Bama wins, so let's roll with that.
No. 3 Oklahoma State over No. 14 Kansas State: Obviously it would be better for Boise for KState to win this game, but I don't see that happening; even in this hypothetical situation that is asking too much.
No. 4 Stanford over Oregon State: Again, a Stanford loss would obviously be good for Boise. It isn't happening in this one.
No. 5 Boise State over UNLV: The bigger the better.
No. 6 Oklahoma over Texas A&M: While I think A&M is competitive in this game, I'm not ready to say they beat Oklahoma.
No. 18 Georgia over New Mexico State: The more wins Georgia piles up, the better that season opening win looks. And by the way, after UGA beats New Mexico State, that will be seven straight wins.
Projected BCS Rankings after Week 10:
1. Alabama
2. OK State
3. Stanford
4. Boise
5. Oklahoma
6. LSU
7. Oregon
WEEK 11
No. 1 Alabama over Mississippi State: The winner of Bama/LSU is presumed to win out, right?
No. 2 OK State over Texas Tech: The Red Raiders to do to OK State what they did to Oklahoma would be beautiful for Chris Petersen, but let's say it doesn't happen.
No. 7 Oregon over No. 3 Stanford: Obvious game of the week. If Chip Kelly can pull off the upset, Boise moves up. Oregon pounded Stanford last year after being down 21 early. This has the makings of a GREAT game.
No. 4 Boise over TCU: The bigger the better.
No. 6 LSU over Western Kentucky: Don't see the Hilltoppers pulling this one out.
N0. 17 Georgia over No. 20 Auburn: A win over a ranked squad for UGA is great news for Boise.
** No. 5 Oklahoma is off.
Projected BCS Standings after Week 11:
1. Alabama
2. OK State
3. Boise
4. Oregon (Should they ever be ranked ahead of LSU this year? NO! But the BCS is the worst system in the history of sports, so it doesn't grasp that)
5. LSU
6. Oklahoma
7. Stanford? Arkansas?
WEEK 12
No. 1 Alabama over Georgia Southern: No comment necessary.
No. 2 OK State over Iowa State: See above.
No. 3 Boise State over San Diego State: Keep on rackin up those dubs.
No. 25 USC over No. 4 Oregon: USC has shown it can play with anybody. This win gets Boise a little bit of breathing room, too.
No. 5 LSU over Ole Miss: Yup.
No. 6 Oklahoma over Baylor: Preferably not in a blowout.
No. 15 Georgia over Kentucky: C'mon Dawgs!
Projected BCS Standings after Week 12:
1. Alabama
2. OK State
3. Boise
4. LSU
5. Oklahoma
6. Someone else.
WEEK 13
No. 1 Alabama over No. 20 Auburn: Go Tigers!
No. 3 Boise over Wyoming: Ho-hum.
No. 4 LSU over No. 7 Arkansas: Toss up. Arkansas is really good.
No. 5 Oklahoma over Iowa State: The closer the better.
No. 14 Georgia over No. 23 Georgia Tech: Georgia is going to the SEC Championship Game.
Projected BCS Standings after Week 13:
1. Alabama
2. Oklahoma State
3. Boise State
4. LSU
5. Oklahoma
WEEK 14
No. 5 Oklahoma over No. 2 Oklahoma State: Oklahoma goes to Stillwater at ends OK State's dream season and any chance they had at a National Championship.
Alabama wins the SEC Championship over Georgia
Boise wins their conference championship
leading to this....
Projected BCS Standings:
1. Alabama
2. Boise State
3. LSU
4. Oklahoma
Of course, there are some flaws to this extreme hypothetical. I'm predicting some very good teams to lose to teams that, in most instances, are not better than them. However, that is how college football works, just ask Oklahoma. And Wisconsin. And Boise last year. The other major potential flaw in this piece is will an undefeated Boise even finish ahead of an undefeated LSU or Oklahoma or Oregon? I would like to think yes. It could depend on how well Boise plays in their victories down the stretch. It also depends on how impressive the one loss teams look down the stretch.
This entire argument could be pointless if Boise stumbles, as it did last year to Nevada. It would be much easier to be Alabama, LSU or Oklahoma State and control your own destiny. But Boise will do it what does every year. They'll continue to win games and Chris Petersen will do the commendable thing and not bash the BCS like he deserves to.
Go Broncos.
WEEK 10
No. 2 Alabama over No. 1 LSU: Really, it doesn't matter which of these teams wins or loses for Boise's sake. I personally think Bama wins, so let's roll with that.
No. 3 Oklahoma State over No. 14 Kansas State: Obviously it would be better for Boise for KState to win this game, but I don't see that happening; even in this hypothetical situation that is asking too much.
No. 4 Stanford over Oregon State: Again, a Stanford loss would obviously be good for Boise. It isn't happening in this one.
No. 5 Boise State over UNLV: The bigger the better.
No. 6 Oklahoma over Texas A&M: While I think A&M is competitive in this game, I'm not ready to say they beat Oklahoma.
No. 18 Georgia over New Mexico State: The more wins Georgia piles up, the better that season opening win looks. And by the way, after UGA beats New Mexico State, that will be seven straight wins.
Projected BCS Rankings after Week 10:
1. Alabama
2. OK State
3. Stanford
4. Boise
5. Oklahoma
6. LSU
7. Oregon
WEEK 11
No. 1 Alabama over Mississippi State: The winner of Bama/LSU is presumed to win out, right?
No. 2 OK State over Texas Tech: The Red Raiders to do to OK State what they did to Oklahoma would be beautiful for Chris Petersen, but let's say it doesn't happen.
No. 7 Oregon over No. 3 Stanford: Obvious game of the week. If Chip Kelly can pull off the upset, Boise moves up. Oregon pounded Stanford last year after being down 21 early. This has the makings of a GREAT game.
No. 4 Boise over TCU: The bigger the better.
No. 6 LSU over Western Kentucky: Don't see the Hilltoppers pulling this one out.
N0. 17 Georgia over No. 20 Auburn: A win over a ranked squad for UGA is great news for Boise.
** No. 5 Oklahoma is off.
Projected BCS Standings after Week 11:
1. Alabama
2. OK State
3. Boise
4. Oregon (Should they ever be ranked ahead of LSU this year? NO! But the BCS is the worst system in the history of sports, so it doesn't grasp that)
5. LSU
6. Oklahoma
7. Stanford? Arkansas?
WEEK 12
No. 1 Alabama over Georgia Southern: No comment necessary.
No. 2 OK State over Iowa State: See above.
No. 3 Boise State over San Diego State: Keep on rackin up those dubs.
No. 25 USC over No. 4 Oregon: USC has shown it can play with anybody. This win gets Boise a little bit of breathing room, too.
No. 5 LSU over Ole Miss: Yup.
No. 6 Oklahoma over Baylor: Preferably not in a blowout.
No. 15 Georgia over Kentucky: C'mon Dawgs!
Projected BCS Standings after Week 12:
1. Alabama
2. OK State
3. Boise
4. LSU
5. Oklahoma
6. Someone else.
WEEK 13
No. 1 Alabama over No. 20 Auburn: Go Tigers!
No. 3 Boise over Wyoming: Ho-hum.
No. 4 LSU over No. 7 Arkansas: Toss up. Arkansas is really good.
No. 5 Oklahoma over Iowa State: The closer the better.
No. 14 Georgia over No. 23 Georgia Tech: Georgia is going to the SEC Championship Game.
Projected BCS Standings after Week 13:
1. Alabama
2. Oklahoma State
3. Boise State
4. LSU
5. Oklahoma
WEEK 14
No. 5 Oklahoma over No. 2 Oklahoma State: Oklahoma goes to Stillwater at ends OK State's dream season and any chance they had at a National Championship.
Alabama wins the SEC Championship over Georgia
Boise wins their conference championship
leading to this....
Projected BCS Standings:
1. Alabama
2. Boise State
3. LSU
4. Oklahoma
Of course, there are some flaws to this extreme hypothetical. I'm predicting some very good teams to lose to teams that, in most instances, are not better than them. However, that is how college football works, just ask Oklahoma. And Wisconsin. And Boise last year. The other major potential flaw in this piece is will an undefeated Boise even finish ahead of an undefeated LSU or Oklahoma or Oregon? I would like to think yes. It could depend on how well Boise plays in their victories down the stretch. It also depends on how impressive the one loss teams look down the stretch.
This entire argument could be pointless if Boise stumbles, as it did last year to Nevada. It would be much easier to be Alabama, LSU or Oklahoma State and control your own destiny. But Boise will do it what does every year. They'll continue to win games and Chris Petersen will do the commendable thing and not bash the BCS like he deserves to.
Go Broncos.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Week 8 Picks
Before I get to my Week 8 picks, I want to comment on my favorite football game of the year: Cowboys @ Eagles. The rivalary was dominated by the Cowboys for a long time, until the Eagles beat Dallas in the 1980 NFC Championship game. It was brought back to life when the Cowboys ran up the score on a replacement players led Eagles team in 87. The Eagles returned that favor the same season when they got their guys back. Buddy Ryan had Randall Cunningham fake a knee and throw to the endzone to give the Eagles a three score win. Later in the rivalary, with Jimmy Johnson coaching the Eagles, was the Bounty Bowl. Allegedly, Buddy Ryan offered a bonus to any Eagles player who took Troy Aikman out of the game. This resulted in numerous late hits on Aikman and a furious Jimmy Johnson.
More recently, in 2008, the Eagles were seemingly out of the playoff picture until a string of losses made their Week 17 matchup with the Cowboys a Winner is In game. The Birds routed the Boys, 44-6. The next year, Dallas flipped it on them and blew out the Eagles to win the NFC East and then humiliated them for the second week in a row in the NFC Wildcard.
Now, we are here. The Eagles are a disappointing 2-4 and the Cowboys are a mediocre 3-3. The winner of Sunday night's game will be in good position to catch the Giants in a mediocre NFC East. The loser will be in quite a hole. The Linc will be rocking Sunday night when the hated Cowboys visit. And there is nothing the city of Philadelphia, and myself, would like more than to beat the living shit out of the Cowboys. Fly Eagles Fly.
On to Week 8 Picks!
Detroit-3 @ Denver
What's this line if Tebow doesn't find a way to win last week? 10? I'm all aboard the Tebow bandwagon but I think Detroit is more than 3 points better than Denver. Give me Detroit -3.
New Orleans -14 @ St Louis
The Saints just hung 62 on a winless team and while I don't think they hang 62 again, does anyone really doubt they get 40? I'll take the Saints -14.
New England -2.5 @ Pittsburgh
My head says Pittsburgh is the pick here. The Steelers have only been underdogs three times at home in the last three years and they're 3-0 outright in those games. If New England wasn't coming off of a bye, I think I might take Pittsburgh, but I can't do it. New England -2.5 is the pick.
Jacksonville +10 @ Houston
I just can't buy Houston! I know Jacksonville is overvalued because of a strong showing on MNF but their defense is actually good. They have an identity, pound MJD and hope Gabbert doesn't mess up too bad. I think Jacksonville can keep it close, gimme the Jags +10.
Cleveland +9.5 @ San Francisco
I buy San Francisco as being a good team but almost 10 point favorites to an okay Cleveland team seems like too much. I dont think San Fran has a whole lot of trouble winning, but Cleveland won't get blown it. Browns +9.5 for me.
Cincinnati -1 @ Seattle
I'm all in on the Red Rifle and AJ Green. I am NOT all in on Charlie Whitehurst. Is Seattle as bad as they played last week? Probably not. Does it worry me a little Cincy is flying cross country? Yeah, a little. But it doesn't worry me enough to stray from Cincinnati -1 as my pick.
Arizona +14 @ Baltimore
Hopefully you didn't take my advice last weekend and bet your mortage on Baltimore on MNF. However, if you listened to me last weekend and are one of the four people still reading, you're hooked. I say take Baltimore -14 and feel pretty safe about it. Cross country game.
Indianapolis +10 @ Tennessee
Who would have thought the best thing that could happen to Peyton Manning's career would be him get hurt and miss a season. Doesn't this validate him as one of the games all time greats? Anyway, this Indy team sucks something serious. I'll take Tennessee -10 at home.
Miami +10.5 @ New York G
My upset special for the week. Dolphins win this one outright. I don't trust Eli as a big favorite. He burned me once this year in the Seahawks game(my eliminator pick) as a 14pt favorite. I say the Dolphins get to Eli and lose a step in the Suck for Luck race but win this game outright. Miami +10.5 for me.
Minnesota +3.5 @ Carolina
Free Money alert. I'm not sure that Christian Ponder is as solid as he looked last week. Cam Newton is every bit as good as he looked against a solid Washington D last week. I'll chalk this one up as my favorite game of the week. Carolina -3.5.
Washington +6 @ Buffalo
I believe in the Bills and think the Skins are dead in the water. A friend of mine made a point that as soon as the Skins switched QB's their season would be over. I'm in 100% on that call. BUT, I'm thinking Beck can keep them within backdoor range and slide into a cover. I'll take the Skins +6.
Kansas City +3.5 @ San Diego
C'mon man. Does anybody out there actually believe the Chargers are only 3.5 points better than KC? I know KC always plays them tough and SD hasn't been impressive this year but this is a joke. Anyone who takes KC is an asshole who doesn't like money. Gimme SD -3.5.
Dallas +3.5 @ Philadelphia
12-0. That is Andy's record in his career after a bye. The Cowboys can lose this game and still be alive in the division, the Eagles cannot. I'm calling for a classic Mike Vick game(and no, that doesn't mean 80 rushing yards, 3 INT's and a concussion). He'll be the best player on the field in this one and give me the best birthday present of my life. E-A-G-L-E-S -3.5.
To whoever out there read this whole thing, thanks, appreciate it. I'd also appreciate it if you linked to this on facebook, twitter or whatever social media site you use. Also, a shoutout to the fellas at http://www.pickinsplinters.com/ for giving me a little publicity. Check out their site, there is some great material on there. Hope everyone has a Happy Halloween weekend.
More recently, in 2008, the Eagles were seemingly out of the playoff picture until a string of losses made their Week 17 matchup with the Cowboys a Winner is In game. The Birds routed the Boys, 44-6. The next year, Dallas flipped it on them and blew out the Eagles to win the NFC East and then humiliated them for the second week in a row in the NFC Wildcard.
Now, we are here. The Eagles are a disappointing 2-4 and the Cowboys are a mediocre 3-3. The winner of Sunday night's game will be in good position to catch the Giants in a mediocre NFC East. The loser will be in quite a hole. The Linc will be rocking Sunday night when the hated Cowboys visit. And there is nothing the city of Philadelphia, and myself, would like more than to beat the living shit out of the Cowboys. Fly Eagles Fly.
On to Week 8 Picks!
Detroit-3 @ Denver
What's this line if Tebow doesn't find a way to win last week? 10? I'm all aboard the Tebow bandwagon but I think Detroit is more than 3 points better than Denver. Give me Detroit -3.
New Orleans -14 @ St Louis
The Saints just hung 62 on a winless team and while I don't think they hang 62 again, does anyone really doubt they get 40? I'll take the Saints -14.
New England -2.5 @ Pittsburgh
My head says Pittsburgh is the pick here. The Steelers have only been underdogs three times at home in the last three years and they're 3-0 outright in those games. If New England wasn't coming off of a bye, I think I might take Pittsburgh, but I can't do it. New England -2.5 is the pick.
Jacksonville +10 @ Houston
I just can't buy Houston! I know Jacksonville is overvalued because of a strong showing on MNF but their defense is actually good. They have an identity, pound MJD and hope Gabbert doesn't mess up too bad. I think Jacksonville can keep it close, gimme the Jags +10.
Cleveland +9.5 @ San Francisco
I buy San Francisco as being a good team but almost 10 point favorites to an okay Cleveland team seems like too much. I dont think San Fran has a whole lot of trouble winning, but Cleveland won't get blown it. Browns +9.5 for me.
Cincinnati -1 @ Seattle
I'm all in on the Red Rifle and AJ Green. I am NOT all in on Charlie Whitehurst. Is Seattle as bad as they played last week? Probably not. Does it worry me a little Cincy is flying cross country? Yeah, a little. But it doesn't worry me enough to stray from Cincinnati -1 as my pick.
Arizona +14 @ Baltimore
Hopefully you didn't take my advice last weekend and bet your mortage on Baltimore on MNF. However, if you listened to me last weekend and are one of the four people still reading, you're hooked. I say take Baltimore -14 and feel pretty safe about it. Cross country game.
Indianapolis +10 @ Tennessee
Who would have thought the best thing that could happen to Peyton Manning's career would be him get hurt and miss a season. Doesn't this validate him as one of the games all time greats? Anyway, this Indy team sucks something serious. I'll take Tennessee -10 at home.
Miami +10.5 @ New York G
My upset special for the week. Dolphins win this one outright. I don't trust Eli as a big favorite. He burned me once this year in the Seahawks game(my eliminator pick) as a 14pt favorite. I say the Dolphins get to Eli and lose a step in the Suck for Luck race but win this game outright. Miami +10.5 for me.
Minnesota +3.5 @ Carolina
Free Money alert. I'm not sure that Christian Ponder is as solid as he looked last week. Cam Newton is every bit as good as he looked against a solid Washington D last week. I'll chalk this one up as my favorite game of the week. Carolina -3.5.
Washington +6 @ Buffalo
I believe in the Bills and think the Skins are dead in the water. A friend of mine made a point that as soon as the Skins switched QB's their season would be over. I'm in 100% on that call. BUT, I'm thinking Beck can keep them within backdoor range and slide into a cover. I'll take the Skins +6.
Kansas City +3.5 @ San Diego
C'mon man. Does anybody out there actually believe the Chargers are only 3.5 points better than KC? I know KC always plays them tough and SD hasn't been impressive this year but this is a joke. Anyone who takes KC is an asshole who doesn't like money. Gimme SD -3.5.
Dallas +3.5 @ Philadelphia
12-0. That is Andy's record in his career after a bye. The Cowboys can lose this game and still be alive in the division, the Eagles cannot. I'm calling for a classic Mike Vick game(and no, that doesn't mean 80 rushing yards, 3 INT's and a concussion). He'll be the best player on the field in this one and give me the best birthday present of my life. E-A-G-L-E-S -3.5.
To whoever out there read this whole thing, thanks, appreciate it. I'd also appreciate it if you linked to this on facebook, twitter or whatever social media site you use. Also, a shoutout to the fellas at http://www.pickinsplinters.com/ for giving me a little publicity. Check out their site, there is some great material on there. Hope everyone has a Happy Halloween weekend.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
And then there were eight...
When Saturday started, there were 10 undefeated teams. All ten were favored, and nine were favored by double digits. There are now 8 undefeated teams. Wisconsin went down in an absolutely wild game that was decided by a last second Hail Mary in East Lansing. Oklahoma went down at home to 29 point underdog Texas Tech. All in all, the undefeateds went 7-3 ATS yesterday, a very respectable showing.
With Oklahoma and Wisconsin both falling yesterday, teams like Boise State and Stanford take a huge step up in the rankings to be released later today. There are currently three teams that seem to control their own destiny:
LSU: In case you haven't heard, LSU and Alabama play at Bryant-Denny on November 5th. The winner will be the undisputed #1 team in the country and will need only to win the SEC Championship to secure their spot in the BCS National Championship.
Alabama: See above.
Oklahoma State: It is possible that Oklahoma's loss actually HURTS the Cowboys. A win over Oklahoma in the season finale will certainly carry alot of weight, but not near as much as it would have if both teams were unbeaten. OK State, should it remain undefeated, would seem to jump a one loss SEC team in the NC.
That leaves Stanford, Boise, Clemson and Kansas State on the outside looking in. If Kansas State were to win out(wins over Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Texas A&M) maybe they would have a case that they deserve to be in the NC. Even with that dominant win over Kansas yesterday, I don't think too many of us are betting on them to be playing in the last game of the season.
Stanford played it's first ranked opponent yesterday and destroyed them. They did with a very pedestrian Andrew Luck game also. Stanford set a school record for rushing yards with almost 500 yards on the ground. Stanford has three tough games remaining: @USC, hosting Oregon and hosting Notre Dame. The BCS backers have to be praying that Stanford suffers a loss, because it would be quite a shame to leave out college football's biggest individual star from the game's biggest stage.
Boise State is doing what they always do. Although not overly impressive against Air Force yesterday, they still won by two scores. Boise's toughest game left on the schedule is a home game against TCU. Chris Petersen and crew will need help to reach the NC, and many would even argue that a one loss Oklahoma, Bama/LSU, OKState or Stanford would deserve in over Boise. They also do crack cocaine. Go Broncos.
Am I the only one who keeps waiting for the inevitable Clemson meltdown? Dabo and the boys seem intent on not letting that happen. Clemson travels to Georgia Tech and ends the season @South Carolina. If Clemson runs the table, it will have five wins over ranked opponents, maybe six depending on the ACC Championship. I don't think there is a quarterback in the country playing better than Tajh Boyd right now.
So there are still seven teams in play for the National Championship(No, I am not counting undefeated Houston). The BCS better be hoping and praying that some of the above teams stumble and we don't end the season with multiple unbeaten teams. I personally am rooting for as many undefeateds as possible. The only way to fix the BCS, it seems, is to consistently show how stupid it is. So as much as I love the upsets and the shocking games that make college football what it is, I will spend the rest of the season rooting for the favorites.
It is the only way to expose the BCS for what it actually is, an absolute travesty to the game of college football.
With Oklahoma and Wisconsin both falling yesterday, teams like Boise State and Stanford take a huge step up in the rankings to be released later today. There are currently three teams that seem to control their own destiny:
LSU: In case you haven't heard, LSU and Alabama play at Bryant-Denny on November 5th. The winner will be the undisputed #1 team in the country and will need only to win the SEC Championship to secure their spot in the BCS National Championship.
Alabama: See above.
Oklahoma State: It is possible that Oklahoma's loss actually HURTS the Cowboys. A win over Oklahoma in the season finale will certainly carry alot of weight, but not near as much as it would have if both teams were unbeaten. OK State, should it remain undefeated, would seem to jump a one loss SEC team in the NC.
That leaves Stanford, Boise, Clemson and Kansas State on the outside looking in. If Kansas State were to win out(wins over Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Texas A&M) maybe they would have a case that they deserve to be in the NC. Even with that dominant win over Kansas yesterday, I don't think too many of us are betting on them to be playing in the last game of the season.
Stanford played it's first ranked opponent yesterday and destroyed them. They did with a very pedestrian Andrew Luck game also. Stanford set a school record for rushing yards with almost 500 yards on the ground. Stanford has three tough games remaining: @USC, hosting Oregon and hosting Notre Dame. The BCS backers have to be praying that Stanford suffers a loss, because it would be quite a shame to leave out college football's biggest individual star from the game's biggest stage.
Boise State is doing what they always do. Although not overly impressive against Air Force yesterday, they still won by two scores. Boise's toughest game left on the schedule is a home game against TCU. Chris Petersen and crew will need help to reach the NC, and many would even argue that a one loss Oklahoma, Bama/LSU, OKState or Stanford would deserve in over Boise. They also do crack cocaine. Go Broncos.
Am I the only one who keeps waiting for the inevitable Clemson meltdown? Dabo and the boys seem intent on not letting that happen. Clemson travels to Georgia Tech and ends the season @South Carolina. If Clemson runs the table, it will have five wins over ranked opponents, maybe six depending on the ACC Championship. I don't think there is a quarterback in the country playing better than Tajh Boyd right now.
So there are still seven teams in play for the National Championship(No, I am not counting undefeated Houston). The BCS better be hoping and praying that some of the above teams stumble and we don't end the season with multiple unbeaten teams. I personally am rooting for as many undefeateds as possible. The only way to fix the BCS, it seems, is to consistently show how stupid it is. So as much as I love the upsets and the shocking games that make college football what it is, I will spend the rest of the season rooting for the favorites.
It is the only way to expose the BCS for what it actually is, an absolute travesty to the game of college football.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Week 7 Picks
If you're reading this, I'm assuming you know me so there is really no need for an introduction. I didn't want to write an interesting hook to start this sucker off so I'm going to go a different route and jump right into my Week 7 NFL Picks. I've had a couple of pretty good weekends lately. Of course, now that I said that I am on the fast track to a 5-8 weekend. Here goes nothing.
**Keep in mind, this blog isn't going to be about just sports betting. I'll use it to blast the Eagles wack ass linebackers, rip David Stern and Billy Hunter for being douchebags, and talk about how insanely good Claude Giroux is. If you don't know who any of those people are then there is really no point in continuing to read. You've been warned.
Chicago -1 @ Tampa: I have been high on the Bucs all year and think that everyone will overrate Chicago based on the curbstomping of Minnesota on SNF. I'm taking the Bucs +1.
Washington +2.5 @ Carolina: I feel like NFL D Coordinators are starting to figure out Cam Newton. However, let's not forget that John Beck is the Redskins starting quarterback. Not sure why everyone is excited about Beck taking over for Grossman. There is a reason Sexy Rexy was the starter for the first six weeks. He's better than Beck. If John Beck is a downgrade from Rex, gimme the Panthers -2.5.
San Diego -2 @ New York Jets: Haven't been on the Jets on all year. I don't think SD has looked good so far. Losing Sproles in the offseason and having Gates on the sidelines really hurts them. Butttt, as my good friend Soaps pointed out, the Jets are preparing with a short week and the Chargers are coming off a bye. I'll take the Chargers -2.
Seattle +3 @ Cleveland: This is one of the games that I don't feel comfortable touching because I just don't give a shit about it. I think Charlie Whitehurst will help out Seattle's passing game a little. Cleveland's offense lacks any kind of deep threat. Hate to say it but I'll take Seattle +3 on the road.
Houston +3.5 @ Tennessee: I don't have a strong feeling about this game, either. I don't like Houston and am lukewarm to Tennessee. I'll take the healthier team coming off a bye. Give me Tennessee -3.5.
Denver +2.5 @ Miami: Tebow, Tebow, Tebow. I know it seems too easy and if Denver played anyone else, I'd probably pick against him but Miami isn't good. For God's sake it's Matt Moore! Gimme Denver +2.5.
Atlanta +3.5 @ Detroit: Whenever Atlanta reverts back to 2010 and starts running the Burner 20+ times a game, let me know. Until they do that, I'll keep going against them. Detroit -3.5 is the pick.
Kansas City +4.5 @ Oakland: I don't buy Carson Palmer's playbook concerns. He's a veteran, the Raiders playbook is simple, anyway. Throw it deep to DHB, Ford and their other sub 4.4 wideouts. Or hand it off to McFadden. The Chiefs suck. Oakland -4.5, thanks.
Pittsburgh -3.5 @ Arizona: I really wanted to take Arizona here and just pray they lost by three. Beanie is going to run on this defense, but Kolb won't be able to keep them from loading the box in the second half. Take Pittsburgh -3.5.
Dallas -12.5 @ St Louis: I don't feel the need to say much about this except St Louis has a JV secondary and Dallas has a pretty dirty receiving core. Dallas -12.5 is easy money.
Green Bay -9 @ Minnesota: GB is due to put up a stinkbomb. This ain't the game. Christian Ponder will make a few plays of note and the loss won't be his fault but Green Bay -9 is my pick.
Indianapolis +14 @ New Orleans: I don't know what it is about this New Orleans team, but I don't buy them. And for some reason, I think this Indy team can hang with everyone and not beat anybody. I'll take Indy +14.
Baltimore -7.5 @ Jacksonville: I've heard multiple analysts call this Ravens D as good as the 01 D that won the SB single handedly (sorry, Trent). The Ravens average margin of victory is 22.5 points this year. Do I need to make myself any more clear. I refuse to put this one in bold print, it's that clear.
*There you go. Those are my picks for the weekend. In all honesty, if you bet the opposite of every single pick, you would probably win money. There are 13 games this weekend, the goal for every weekend is to just finish above .500, let's see how that works out.
**Keep in mind, this blog isn't going to be about just sports betting. I'll use it to blast the Eagles wack ass linebackers, rip David Stern and Billy Hunter for being douchebags, and talk about how insanely good Claude Giroux is. If you don't know who any of those people are then there is really no point in continuing to read. You've been warned.
Chicago -1 @ Tampa: I have been high on the Bucs all year and think that everyone will overrate Chicago based on the curbstomping of Minnesota on SNF. I'm taking the Bucs +1.
Washington +2.5 @ Carolina: I feel like NFL D Coordinators are starting to figure out Cam Newton. However, let's not forget that John Beck is the Redskins starting quarterback. Not sure why everyone is excited about Beck taking over for Grossman. There is a reason Sexy Rexy was the starter for the first six weeks. He's better than Beck. If John Beck is a downgrade from Rex, gimme the Panthers -2.5.
San Diego -2 @ New York Jets: Haven't been on the Jets on all year. I don't think SD has looked good so far. Losing Sproles in the offseason and having Gates on the sidelines really hurts them. Butttt, as my good friend Soaps pointed out, the Jets are preparing with a short week and the Chargers are coming off a bye. I'll take the Chargers -2.
Seattle +3 @ Cleveland: This is one of the games that I don't feel comfortable touching because I just don't give a shit about it. I think Charlie Whitehurst will help out Seattle's passing game a little. Cleveland's offense lacks any kind of deep threat. Hate to say it but I'll take Seattle +3 on the road.
Houston +3.5 @ Tennessee: I don't have a strong feeling about this game, either. I don't like Houston and am lukewarm to Tennessee. I'll take the healthier team coming off a bye. Give me Tennessee -3.5.
Denver +2.5 @ Miami: Tebow, Tebow, Tebow. I know it seems too easy and if Denver played anyone else, I'd probably pick against him but Miami isn't good. For God's sake it's Matt Moore! Gimme Denver +2.5.
Atlanta +3.5 @ Detroit: Whenever Atlanta reverts back to 2010 and starts running the Burner 20+ times a game, let me know. Until they do that, I'll keep going against them. Detroit -3.5 is the pick.
Kansas City +4.5 @ Oakland: I don't buy Carson Palmer's playbook concerns. He's a veteran, the Raiders playbook is simple, anyway. Throw it deep to DHB, Ford and their other sub 4.4 wideouts. Or hand it off to McFadden. The Chiefs suck. Oakland -4.5, thanks.
Pittsburgh -3.5 @ Arizona: I really wanted to take Arizona here and just pray they lost by three. Beanie is going to run on this defense, but Kolb won't be able to keep them from loading the box in the second half. Take Pittsburgh -3.5.
Dallas -12.5 @ St Louis: I don't feel the need to say much about this except St Louis has a JV secondary and Dallas has a pretty dirty receiving core. Dallas -12.5 is easy money.
Green Bay -9 @ Minnesota: GB is due to put up a stinkbomb. This ain't the game. Christian Ponder will make a few plays of note and the loss won't be his fault but Green Bay -9 is my pick.
Indianapolis +14 @ New Orleans: I don't know what it is about this New Orleans team, but I don't buy them. And for some reason, I think this Indy team can hang with everyone and not beat anybody. I'll take Indy +14.
Baltimore -7.5 @ Jacksonville: I've heard multiple analysts call this Ravens D as good as the 01 D that won the SB single handedly (sorry, Trent). The Ravens average margin of victory is 22.5 points this year. Do I need to make myself any more clear. I refuse to put this one in bold print, it's that clear.
*There you go. Those are my picks for the weekend. In all honesty, if you bet the opposite of every single pick, you would probably win money. There are 13 games this weekend, the goal for every weekend is to just finish above .500, let's see how that works out.
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