Clipboard Duty

Hi There... Remember us?

2011-05-10T14:35:00.000-05:00

No, you haven't been dreaming. We've been a little down. Okay, a lot down. But, coming soon, we'll be up and running again. What happening? Life. Ty, Gid, Darrell and I have been a little busy with it. You know, work, kids, work, life... it's a vicious circle. Unfortunately, we have been four guys who have had our butts kicked by it.

We will be posting soon, as well as having some good news for those of you that like your college football.

STUDY HALL, WEEK EIGHT (no really, this one is right)

2010-10-22T13:35:00.000-05:00

Right now, it's all about the O.

We are at the fourth week of October, which means for the most part that we know what teams are going to be there at the beginning of December as national title hopefuls, and which ones are just going to be secondary stories. Oregon looked normal (read:great) last night dismantling a UCLA team with a offense that has turned anemic ever since they left Austin with a win. I have a feeling the Ducks would be at the very minimum a 10-12 point fave over anyone in America on a neutral field for a bowl game. Maybe Boise, Oklahoma, or TCU would be single digits, but you can't say that with Darron Thomas and LeMichael James in that offense that you can slow them down that much. The defense... eh, we'll reserve judgement till they play a game where the offense is stymied (and that doesn't count against Wazzu, the Cougars are awful). Now, onto the games for Saturday. Instead of featuring several games at can't miss matchups, I'm going to bullet point all the games, because in all honesty there are a lot of games that you shouldn't miss. We're going from early to late. Any starting times will be Eastern.

THE GAMES:

#7 Michigan State at Northwestern - Kirk Cousins should have a great day vs the Wildcats. They're getting closer in Evansville, but they still need to find a offense.

Purdue at #10 Ohio State- Worst game of the season last week for the Buckeye offense. Purdue shouldn't be a tough opponent to get healthy against... shouldn't is the key word. If Pryor stinks at all this game, I'd start to question how injured he actually is.

Iowa State at #19 Texas - The Cyclones can move the ball on offense. Unfortunately, the Defense moves too... backwards. If Garrett Gilbert doesnt' score more than 30-34 this game, major issues should come up. Then again, the press there will sugarcoat it just like everything else.

Notre Dame at Navy (in Baltimore) - People are telling the world how Notre Dame should blow Navy out of the water. I don't think that's going to happen here, for some reason this team likes to keep the game closer than it should be. Navy will wear this defense out, but the kicker has been how much Navy has passed for per attempt in the last few years vs. the Irish (number is staggering, like 18-20 yards per pass). Notre Dame, but not by much.

Mississippi at #23 Arkansas - Between the loss last week after Ryan Mallett went out, the failure of the D to keep Auburn under 60 (stellar SEC defenses, right?), and the scathing and truthful comments from Cincinatti Bengals' DC Mike Zimmer (who doesn't say anything mean about anyone), Bobby Petrino needs this game badly to stave off the vultures all of a sudden. A loss here, and you can warm up the bus for Shreveport for them. While for Ole Miss, the reverend Nutt has actually had a decent looking team lately since Jeremiah Masoli has started to blossom. I think that, if Mallett is healthy and ready to go, this game shouldnt' be close. However, if Arkansas loses or looks bad winning, expect the boobirds to rain down on this field.

#6 LSU at #4 Auburn - The GAME OF THE CENTURY OF THE WEEK in the SEC is a pretty damn good one, and one that will give the winner the upper hand on their way to Atlanta for the SEC Championship. This will be the best D that Cam Newton and the espresso-puppy offense that Malzhan will face. Auburn will get their points, and will be stopped at times. However, the game still falls on the maddening yet efficent when their backs against the wall offense that Jordan Jefferson and Jarrett Lee are allowed to manage. If this game is close at the end, remember the horseshoe that Les Miles seems to have shoved up his ass. It's not like Auburn stopped Arkansas last week, they just happened to outscore them. I wanna say Auburn, but this is LSU.

#13 Wisconsin at #15 Iowa - This is a very interesting game in the B10 this week, with the way Wisconsin slapped then -#1 tOSU last week, and how Iowa has seemed to be the most consistant team in the conference this year. If you watch it, it will be a very boring game in that both offenses just control the ball and won't give you anything to take advantage of. I say Iowa only because I feel that Wisconsin will be coming down from the beating of the Buckeyes, and for some reason the Hawkeyes are a much different team in Kinnick.

#16 Nebraska at #14 Oklahoma State - No way did I expect that Taylor Martinez would struggle that much against the UT defense. Then again, there was four drops by Nebraska's receivers that would have changed the game. They go to Stillwater where the Cowboy offense has been unstoppable really. This is a large test for Dana Holgorson's passing offense, going against the top pass efficency team in America in the Blackshirts. Kendrell Hunter will be the X factor here, because he will be asked to carry the ball a lot against a running defense that is good but not as good as they were last year. The saving grace for Nebraska is that they will be able to score against this defense. After last weeks game, Bo will have his team's attention. Think Nebraska by about 10 points here.

#22 Kansas State at Baylor - This game is going to be an upset. Kansas State has had a lot of issues against mobile quarterbacks, and Robert Griffin III is as mobile as they come. There's a lot on the line for Baylor. At home, bowl eligibility with a win... no way do they come out slacking on emotions. Kansas State tends to come out flat in these games. Baylor by 2 touchdowns and they tear down the goalposts after the game.

#8 Alabama at Tennessee - The Tide got healthy last week against Mississippi, and go into Neyland to go against a team that is just struggling to find itself. Tennessee's D isn't very good, but their Offense actually seems to do well against teams that have great defenses. Alabama should run for 400 plus on this team. It won't be close.

#1 Oklahoma at #11 Missouri - College Gameday rolls into Columbia for the first time ever as this Saturday night tussle will pit undefeated teams. Missouri's offense is just as good as normal, however they can't run the ball. Missouri's defense, while ranked pretty highly and very good, hasn't been faced by anyone. Oklahoma has found a great offense all of a sudden, and plays pass defense pretty well. The determining factor, however, is all mental. Like Texas being in Nebraska's head, Oklahoma is in Gary Pinkel's head. Bad. OU will win a game that, while is close the whole night, won't be a real contest.

Washington at #18 Arizona - Remember about three weeks ago when everyone was telling you how Arizona was CLEARLY the Pac 10 frontrunners and should easily win the title? I guess that was before people realized how good Oregon was and how phony Arizona looks. Jake Locker and Sark come to town and have a pretty good vibe going after beating Oregon State. With no Nick Foles to throw, I think Washington wins this game and sends Arizona out of the top 25 for the year.

THE FOOD AND DRINK OPTIONS

Some of you are begging for comfort foods for your Saturday. I'm more than willing to oblige, as long as it goes Southern with just a little bit of butter, y'all.....

Barbeque Meatloaf
Recipe courtesy Paula Deen

Ingredients:
•1 1/2 pounds ground beef
•1 cup fresh bread crumbs
•1 onion, diced
•1 egg, lightly beaten
•1 1/2 teaspoons salt
•1/2 teaspoon pepper
•2 (8-ounce) cans tomato sauce
•3 tablespoons vinegar
•3 tablespoons brown sugar
•2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
•2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
•1/2 cup water, to thin sauce if necessary
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Mix together the beef, bread crumbs, onion, egg, salt, pepper, and 1/2 cup of the tomato sauce. Form this mixture into a loaf and place it in a shallow pan. Stir together the remaining tomato sauce, vinegar, sugar, mustard, Worcestershire and the water (if too thick). Pour this sauce over the meatloaf. Bake for 1 hour, basting every 15 minutes with the pan juices.

Cook's Note: Try serving as a sandwich with mayonnaise

Oh yes we will Paula.... we will... Beverage? Guiness stout. With meatloaf, you can't do no wrong.

Ball is in your court, Cam

THE HEISMAN FRONTRUNNERS:

Cam Newton - He can either go a long way or spin down quickly with this week vs. a good LSU D.

Kellen Moore - Still keeps winning and looking good. As stable as you can get.

LaMichael James - normal great game last night, although you wonder if Darron Thomas should get some cred.

Justin Blackmon - This could be his coming out party. He's going against two NFL caliber corners this week in Prince Amukumara and Alfonso Dennard. If he can get his numbers, expect him to skyrocket.

btw... I see that ESPN still has Andrew Luck listed as a candidate. How can the third best QB in the conference be the Heisman winner, WWL?

THE COACHES COOKING ON THEIR CHAIRS:

~~Tim Brewster~~ - The axe finally fell on Brewster Sunday. To me, I guess that I didn't see the problem with letting him finish the season as the head coach. However, a bonus due at the end of the season made the problem bigger. The issue with Minnesota is that, remember, they fired Glen Mason for being a coach that won 60% of his games. With a new stadium and the extra exposure that the Big 10 will get next year, Minnesota must be thinking that they will get a big time coach. Won't happen. They hired Mark Mangino as a "consultant" before the Brewster firing, expect him to get the job.

Bobby Petrino - As listed above, Petrino has a laundry list of issues all of a sudden, along with the fact that there will be life after Ryan Mallett. Makes you start to wonder if Petrino will start listening to other schools (no NFL unless Jerry calls... maybe?) about job openings. Minnesota would seem good all of a sudden, you also have possibly Texas A&M if Sherman is asked to leave, Colorado if they can find the money for Hawkins.. a lot of possibilities all of a sudden. And, if he says he isn't leaving... well, take it for what it's worth.

Dan Hawkins - Bad loss against Baylor. Just a matter of time.

Greg Schiano - His time at Rutgers has run it's course. He's done everything to get that program going, and they have shot him down along the way. 90% of any other school in America, he'd be at Nick Saban status.

Paul Wulff - Cant see him doing anything to save his job, even with a Apple Cup win.

Not bright, at all.

RANT OF THE WEEK:

Larry Scott... why are you thinking? Why make it to where a team in a BCS conference hosts their own title game? Isn't a conference title game supposed to be a fair, neutral site game where it's a reward for said teams to go to? Do you really think that, for a Arizona/Cal team that wins their division, they could be rewarded by going to Pullman or Boulder in the first week of December? Did you even think of the fans when you decided this? Of course you didn't. Was Glendale, the Rose Bowl, Oakland Coliseum, or Qualicomm Stadiums booked with Billy Graham crusades or Amway conventions? Stop the madness. Make this last one year, period.

Enjoy your weekend people... and, just because... GO RANGERS.

STUDY HALL- WEEK 7

2010-10-15T13:39:00.002-05:00

I bet business is BOOMING today over there....

Week eight is upon us, and while we're still wondering how South Florida kept it close with the Gators earlier this year while laying a stinkbomb, we just can't believe that Auburn actually got their head coaching decision right 2 years ago when they didn't take Turner Gill. I understood that Kansas was going to take steps back with both talent and losing Mark Mangino, however there is a level of suprise in the suck that KU has this year. Turner Gill had 2 weeks to prep for that Kansas State game, and..... dear god. Anyhow, not a whole lot of marquee games to preview, but we will trudge on with what we have. All times Eastern of course...

This kid is good and may be the SEC's best National Title contender remaining

#12 ARKANSAS vs. #7 AUBURN 3:30-CBS

This game will be the first test for Auburn and the espresso filled spread offense that Guz Malzhan uses to the hilt with Cam Newton. While at Arkansas, they need this game to not only keep any national title hopes around, but to stay from the bottom of the LOADED SEC West division (not all the way at the bottom, there is the stellar state of Mississippi). The one thing that Arkansas should and will do is make Newton have to throw it to win. Auburn can run very well however no one has made Cam throw for a win. Mallett will have a better day than he did against Texas A&M, and the Arkansas D isn't too shabby. I can't see a Auburn team play like they did last week against Kentucky and win this game. Four Star game, and I do do think Arkansas wins on the road here.

"He has the ball, run over there! What, it was on tape? What's tape?"

#15 IOWA vs MICHIGAN 3:30- ABC Regional

The very last thing that Michigan needed was to lay an egg at home against a team that was more sound fundamentaly.. and that's exactly what happened last week. As I have said before, since the defense sucks so bad in Ann Arbor (GREG ROBINSON BLOWS), this team lives and dies on the performance of Denard Robinson. However, because Robinson had one bad week, there is NO REASON WHATSOEVER to pull him for Tate Forcier, and I would LOVE to hear the reasons that people have to do that. Iowa, on the other hand, come into town off a bye week, after pasting Penn State at home. Ricky Stanzi still runs a great offense, and Adam Clayborn is due for a homewrecker week. Three stars here, and I do think Iowa wins in Ann Arbor but not by a lot. It's not that I think Denard will have another bad week, however the Wolverine D just can't suck enough.

"Why yes, I think a bowl game in San Antonio or Shreveport is just great travel for our fans."

TEXAS vs. #5 NEBRASKA 3:30-ABC Regional

The day most Husker fans have waited for is here. Red Out Around the World day was first created by the Nebraska marketing staff in June with the motto of "Wear Red, Be Loud, Beat Texas". Since then, Bo Pelini has tapered it down to show some class. Nebraska respects Texas so much in this game, and that will be the difference in this game. Texas has already said they will just keep doing what they have been doing, and that probably makes Longhorn fan cry. O.C. Greg Davis promised earlier this season they would just run the ball down people's throats, and has done everything but. Garrett Gilbert has been asked to throw every game to win it for them, and if he is asked to do this on Saturday, the all-world corners of Alfonso Dennard and Prince Amukumara will own him alive. The best chance Texas has is to just run between the guards all day, and that is the ONE thing that they have refused to do. Texas' D isn't that bad at all, in fact the secondary is pretty stout. However, Taylor Martinez and his two buddies in Rex Burkhead and Roy Helu have run all day long. Nebraska will have to be patient but will get their yards and plays on offense. Four star game here, if anything for the atmosphere and such. Nebraska should just wear out Texas here, the only way UT wins I think is if they get a offensive showing that they haven't had all year. Against the Blackshirts, probably not.

Camp Randall will be rocking Saturday night

#1 OHIO STATE vs. #18 WISCONSIN 7:00- ABC National

Tressel-ball comes into Madison for a Saturday Night game with Wisconsin. The Badgers will be their usual self with boring yet very efficent offense with Scott Tolzien and John Clay carrying the load once again. Ohio State will come in with Terrell Pryor carrying the offense. What people don't get, however, is that Ohio State is 7th in D-1 in scoring defense, averaging a crisp 13.5 points allowed per game. Three star game here, because it will seem like a snoozefest with all the running and such. Ohio State should win this one, but don't put it past Wisconsin to look better here than they did against Michigan State. The lower scoring this game is, the better Wisconsin's chances get.

Other game to keep your eyes on:

Illinois at #13 Michigan State - Do you think that the Illini's performance against Penn State got Sparty's attention? It should have.

#21 Missouri at Texas A&M - I do not get how Mizzou is a dog in this game. It will be the first test of the Tiger Defense all year, in that Jerrod Johnson is much better in College Station. Lots of scoring here, I think, think Missouri wins.

#20 Oklahoma State at Texas Tech - Again, the ranked road team is a dog here. Oklahoma State can score on anyone, however their D has been shaky at best. Taylor Potts is just good enough here to justify a upset. If OSU makes it, they have a matchup w/ Nebraska in Stillwater next week. Classic look ahead game here.

#10 South Carolina at Kentucky - Here could be your upset special for the week. Gamecocks coming off the huge Alabama win, while Kentucky gave Auburn all they wanted and then some last week. Think it may happen here.

Mississippi State at #20 Florida - Urban and the Gators can't lose 3 in a row... can they?

#3 Boise State at San Jose State - Pay attention to this game if you can. San Jose State went to Nevada last week and gave them all sorts of fits for three quarters. With Boise needing to look impressive the rest of the way, will be interesting to see how much trouble the Broncos have.

#24 Oregon State at Washington - We told you here last week that the Beavers were going to take down a overrated Arizona team, and we also feel confident about this game with them too. Jake Locker isn't 100% and their D isn't great either.

FOOD AND BEVERAGE OPTIONS FOR THE WEEKEND.

This sounds like the weekend to fire up the smoker and get some brisket done, don't you agree?

Smoked BBQ Brisket
Recipe courtesy Bobby Flay

Ingredients:
•1/2 cup ancho chili powder
•2 tablespoons paprika
•1 tablespoon ground cumin
•1 tablespoon dry mustard
•1 tablespoon kosher salt
•2 teaspoons cayenne
•1 trimmed brisket with a layer of fat at least 1/4-inch thick, about 5 to 6 pounds
•Dark Beer Mop, recipe follows

Directions:
Mix together the spices in a small bowl. Rub the entire brisket with the spice mixture, place on a baking sheet, cover and let stand in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 6 hours.

Prepare the smoker according to manufacturer's directions. Place the brisket in the smoker, fat side up and smoke for 4 to 5 hours or until extremely tender. Baste with the mop every 30 minutes.

Dark Beer Mop:

•1 large red onion
•4 cloves garlic
•2 serrano chiles, chopped
•4 bottles of dark beer
•1/4 cup dark brown sugar
•2 bay leaves
•Salt and freshly ground pepper

Place all ingredients in a medium saucepan, season with salt and pepper and cook over medium heat for 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.

I've made it before, it's a great thing. Keep the momentum going with your beverage this week

COACHES WHO ARE REALIZING THEY ARE DONE:

Tim Brewster - reports Friday morning said that if Minnesota loses to Purdue, then Brewster will be let go Monday. Let me get this right, if he wins and stays for a week to go against Penn State and loses, the interim HC will get welcomed to the party with a game against Ohio State? Makes no sense. Either let him go now, or announce he is gone at the end of the season.

Mark Richt - Vanderbilt comes to Athens, better win to have momentum for the Florida game.

Butch Davis - Seems it has calmed a little in Chapel Hill, but losing to Virginia would get them fired up for all the wrong reasons again.

Paul Wulff - Washington State showed some heart against Oregon last week. With that effort, is is FEASABLE (using that lightly) that Wazzu gives Arizona everything they want in Pullman. IF and I say IF the Cougars pull off that upset, Wulff could be safe for the year.

Houston Nutt - Alabama just lost, Nick Saban is pretty pissed off, and you're the next game. God have mercy on your soul.

EYE CANDY FOR THE WEEK

Brooklyn Decker.. yep yep.

God Bless you, Andy Roddick.

FINAL BURN FOR THE WEEK:

I'm good this week folks. Nothing really frying me out.

On a special note, I will have something up either late Sunday or early Monday with the first BCS rankings and a breakdown of what I see that is good and bad.

Enjoy this weekend, everyone.

STUDY HALL- WEEK 6

2010-10-08T14:03:00.000-05:00

The Study Hall is our weekly CFB preview BUT YOU KNOW THIS ALREADY WHY DO I BOTHER..

I'm just like Denard, but with a full team around me.

We have finally arrived at week six of the season. Last night seemed to be a coming out party for Taylor Martinez and his rediculous straight line speed. However, we were more impressed with a Blackshirt run defense that, depending on who you read at what time, was going to be gashed by Kansas State running back Daniel Thomas. This was supposed to be the game Thomas put his name in for the Heisman and all that.... and for the second game in three weeks (Jake Locker), Nebraska's defense took that thought and scalded it with water from an electric kettle. Thomas was held to almost 100 yards under his season average, and the game was done by midway through the third quarter. Four games this week that deserve the Clipboard preview, and here we go (all listed times Eastern).

Click. Clack.

#1 ALABAMA vs. #19 SOUTH CAROLINA 3:30-CBS

This may be a much closer game than anyone wants to admit. Ballcoach Spurrier has been looking for a game that will finally get him over the hump at South Carolina, and he finally feels like he has a running game with super frosh Marcus Lattimore. While Lattimore has been tolerable through the schedule so far, he has not (and will not, sorry Florida) face a tougher run defense than he will against Alabama. If you have ever read the holy grail of defensive coaching, aka the LSU defensive playbook that Saban created, you know the very first item of goals is "We will stop the running game, and we will not allow ourselves to get beat at the line of scrimmage". To win the game, not only does Stephen Garcia need to keep on the near 70% completion percentage he has been on, the Carolina D will have to shut down the normal offensive threats of Alabama (Ingram, Richardson, Jones, McElvoy). This could be a letdown game for Alabama, but even then they should be too good over a 3 hour span to lose. Four star game here, because this should be a rematch in Atlanta in December.

Still stupid fast... still one play away from Michigan going winless the rest of the season.

#17 MICHIGAN STATE vs. #18 MICHIGAN 3:30-ABC Regional

By far, this is the toughest test that Michigan will face so far this year. Denard Robinson was absolutely stellar last week (read: NORMAL) against a decent Indiana team. The one thing I do believe however, about Michigan, is that with all the attention that Robinson is getting with his Playstation numbers, it is really hiding the fact that, for all intensive purposes, Michigan's defense under Greg Robinson is just as bad as it has been his whole existance. Ben Chappell of Indiana, who is pretty good, threw for 486 on this defense last week. How many times did Robinson have to save that defense? The Spartans have a pretty good quarterback too this year with Kirk Cousins, a serviceable running attack with Edwin Baker, and confidence after beating a pretty good Wisconsin team last week. This is also a Four Star game here, because for once, I think that Denard won't be able to do it all and save Michigan in the end. Mark Dantonio has been at practices and will be at the game in the press box for State. I do like Sparty in this game, but it will be pretty high scoring.

First coach in history with 11 wins in a season to be fired walking off the field?

#12 LSU vs. #14 FLORIDA 7:30-ESPN

Has there ever been a game that, for all intensive purposes, has a chance to go to triple overtime tied at 3-3? Both fan bases are fried at their offensive coordinators, albeit for different purposes. In Baton Rouge, fans are building up a hatred for Les Miles and Gary Crowton, with much reason. The way that LSU got divine intervention in their final minute Chinese fire drill that should have lost the game against Tennessee made most purple cajuns sick in their seats. While in Gainesville, offensive coordinator Steve Addazio has caught a lot of heat for his gameplan (or lack there of) against Alabama last week. To me, there are different reasons for both teams issues. With LSU, it seems like a total lack of trust in coaching ability and decision making. While at Florida, right now it's simply a talent issue. This game is a three and a halfer, because there will be, at some point, a period in the game (or a few) that you'll be able to put the Benny Hill music to what is going on the field. I do think that Florida should win this game, because LSU just can't score at all, it's tragic really. There have been reports that John Brantley has been hurt this week, going so far as to say that Brantley couldn't throw in practice. Jeffery Demps should take some pain away though.

Such a great thrower, and so inconsistant.

#23 FLORIDA STATE vs. #13 MIAMI FL 8:00-ABC National Mirror

Jacory Harris just drives me nuts. He really does. And I am nowhere near being a Canes fan. How can a player that is so good be so damn inconsistant blows my mind. The saving grace here is that Christian Ponder can be just as bad across the way for Florida State. Miami has actually done a very good job through what was originally thought as a tough start to the season. Florida State has also had a pretty good start also, save the debacle in Norman. The one thing that stands out to me about this game is that both teams have pretty good defenses, both averaging less than 16 points per game allowed. Something tells me that Florida State has a better chance than people think. One thing that Florida St. can do well that people don't realize is run the football (over 200 yards a game). Four star game here, very easily could be the ACC title game again in December. I think Jacory is due for a stinker, not saying he will but he's had a bad game every third-fourth game it seems in his career. Florida State by a touchdown.

OTHER GAMES OF NOTE FOR THE WEEKEND.

Indiana at #2 Ohio St.- This will be a decent test for the Buckeye D. Will also see if Tressell-ball comes out to slow the game down.

#11 Arkansas vs. Texas A&M (at Cowboys Stadium/Arlington) - Ryan Mallett could easily go for 550 against TAMU. Jerrod Johnson has to have a massive game to keep Mike Sherman off the cooker, and even then it may not matter.

Oregon State at #9 Arizona - Here's a upset special for you folks. Oregon State is way better than their woodchipper for a schedule has put out there, and I think that Arizona is your fraud in the top 10.

#10 Utah at Iowa State - Paul Rhodes gets his team up for games like this, Kyle Whittingham's team has to be focused. If they are, the game shouldn't be close. Shouldn't.

#8 Auburn at Kentucky - A lot of wannabe bookie superstars are calling for Auburn to get ambushed in Lexington. Not buying it, Cam Newton is too good.

Colorado at #24 Missouri - 20 years after the Fifth Down, these 2 teams will play. Colorado can shorten the game, but I keep thinking Mizzou should tire them out.

USC at #16 Stanford - Kiffykins, a pissed off Jim Harbaugh, at home in San Francisco... woodshed time kids.

Arizona State at Washington - If Jake Locker and Sark wanna be taken seriously, they should roll in this game. ASU is so talented yet always never finish a game for some reason.

FOOD AND BEVERAGES FOR THE WEEKEND.

Stay out of your kitchen this weekend and use your phone.

Tip me well or I will clean my car out in your driveway!!

HEISMAN HOPEFULS

Denard Robinson - Stay upright young man, you are the team

Taylor Martinez - Imagine what will happen when he can read secondaries and can throw when there are 9 in the box.

Greg McElroy - Think it's time to throw him in the mix, don't you think? Never loses and makes the correct decision 90-95% of the time. Why not?

Darron Thomas - Only is the QB of the nation's highest scoring offense.

Ryan Mallett - Should be able to get his numbers very healthy vs. TAMU's "wrecked crew"

EYE CANDY OF THE WEEK

You could do much worse than Allison Stokke. MUCH worse.

FINAL RANT OF THE WEEKEND.

If my mouth is open, it means I'm talking out of my ass.

This is actually not College Football related...

You suck ass NHL. Not only do you not even let half of America know when your season starts (on a Thursday?), but you also have to have games in Third World European countries that MAYBE half the people in the stands that are there because you gave the tickets away know what are going on. Furthermore, you have to keep Versus with this bad cable contract. How in the hell has ESPN not gotten the NHL back yet? Furthermore, you have the most expensive game package on any cable/sattelite provider, more than MLS for god sakes! How do you make money? When I go to DirecTV (because DISH has still shart the bed with FSN), you better not gouge me for more $$ because you suck Gary Bettman. People in Canada, Kansas City, and other cities beg for your product while you convince us that the league does well in third to half filled arenas in Arizona, Nashville, Miami, and Atlanta. You have no clue to the fans voice, sir. You are the same DERP that thinks Olympic Hockey could be just as good without NHL players. Wrong again, jackass.

Have fun and keep it safe this weekend folks. Till next time.

MLB Playoff Preview

2010-10-05T23:48:00.002-05:00

It's starting to get cooler outside. That means one thing, MLB Playoff time! In my last blog, I told you exactly why the San Fransisco Giants would win the NL West. It was seamingly the only division that didn't have someone who knew they were going to MLB's second season. Now that we have all 8 teams lined up. Lets take a good look and see who will do what.

National League

Cincinatti Reds Vs. Philladelphia Phillies

This years team that came from nowhere to win their division in the NL. Led by Joey Votto's surge to the top of the National League rankings in virtually every category. But other than Votto, I would be willing to bet that the average fan couldn't name 5 ballplayers that the Reds employ. Fortunately for you, I can. The Reds will begin the postseason with Edison Volquez, who has been slightly inconsistent this season. He missed some time with a drug suspension, and then some more time with an injury. For about the next 4 starts after his return he struggled. But after that he was very solid. He gets the nod in game 1 against the Phillies and Roy Halladay. In his career he is 2-0 with a 0.73 ERA against the Phillies. The two teams played 7 games against each other this season, with the Phillies winning 5 of the 7. Halladay did not face the Reds this season, but in his career he is 0-1. Game 2 will feature Bronson Arroyo against Roy Oswalt who the Phillies acquired from Houston just before the trade deadline. The Reds have several injuries. Orlando Cabrera and Jay Bruce both have sore muscles in their torso and are not 100% but will play. Arthur Rhodes has been bothered by a bad foot much of the year. Laynce Nix has a sprained ankle, and Jim Edmonds has an injured right achilles tendon. Halladay was 21-10 this season with 9 complete games. It was his 3rd 20+ win season. Many people will say that the Phillies should already be pencilled in to the World Series. However, lets not do that just yet, there are 3 other teams who might have something to say about that. This is the Phillies 4th straight trip to the postseason and they have the majors best record at 97-65, one game lower than the franchise best ever. Game 1 features two pitchers who have never seen the postseason before. Game 2 features two players who have World Series experience. The Reds are resilient but, the Phillies just have too much firepower. I look for Philly to take this in 4.

Atlanta Braves vs. San Fransisco Giants

Mark my words. This will be the best pitching matchup, game for game in any of the divisional series. There might not be 25 runs scored total. In my opinion, the giants have the best frontline pitching staff in the majors. I've said it before, and I'll say it now. The reason the Giants won the West was because they have the best pitching staff. The Giants don't score alot, but they defend that by starting the former two time Cy Young award winner Tim Lincecum. He will face the guy with the best sinker in the game in Dereck Lowe. Lowe was 16-12 and had a less than stellar first half and came on strong as the Braves made a playoff push. Throughout the regular season the Giants threw 888 strikeouts to the braves 771. Game 2 will feature Matt Cain against Tommy Hanson. Cain was 13-11 with a 3.14 ERA and 177 strikeouts, while Hanson was 10-11 with a 3.33 ERA and 173K. Like i said in the outset. I expect this series to be very low scoring. Game 3 will be Johnathon Sanchez (13-9 3.07 205) against Atlanta ace Tim Hudson (17-9 2.83 139). The question in this series is, can the Braces survive without using their ace until game 3? The other big story about this series is it features the two players in the race for the NL Rookie of the Year. Who will come out victorious in this series? Your guess is as good as mine! To true baseball fans, this will be the best series of the DS.

American League

New York Yankees Vs. Minnesota Twins

The fact that the Yankees limped into the postseason, coupled with the fact that beside C.C. Sabathia their starting pitching is in awry really scares me for the saintity of Yankee fans. However, game 1 will be one for the ages. Fransisco Liriano (14-10 3.62 201)and winner of the 2010 AL comeback player of the year award, faces C.C. Sabathia (21-7 3.18 197) coming off of his first 20 win season and a run at the AL Cy Young award. But really after Sabathia, the Yanks are pretty scarce pitching wise. In his last start of the season, Andy Pettitte looked pretty bad.IN his last start against Boston on Saturday, Pettitte went 4 innings, gave up 9 hits, 2 walks and 3 runs. To top it off, they didn't really look like a team that wanted it. They don't at this present time have the killer instinct that they had last season. However in his last 14 ALDS games Ron Gardenhire is 2-12, and has faced the Yankees 3 times in the ALDS, lost everytime. However, this is the first time they've had home-field against them. The Yankees are a much older team than anyone else in the playoffs. As i've stated in a previous Blog post, The average age in the major leagues is 27, and the Yankees average age is 29. In the last few weeks future hall of famer Mariano Rivera has shown that he is aging as he hasn't had all of his good stuff. The 38 year old had the most blown saves (5) since 2003 when he had 6. In their last 26 games, the Yankees are 9-17. However, ESPN would have you believe that this series will be swept by the Yankees. But since you're reading this you already assumed that because you know that ESPN is the most East Coast biased company there is. The Twins were 46-42 before the all star break, and 48-26 afterwards. The Twins are on a tear. They were hoping they could get Justin Morneau back for the playoffs, but that's not going to happen. As it stands right now, I like the Twins in 4.

Texas Rangers Vs. Tampa Bay Rays

Yes, you know. I'm a Rangers homer. Always have been, always will be. That being said. The Rangers are 0-12 in the respective parks that the other AL playoff teams call home. The Rangers are 19-25 in daytime games this season and with the exception of a couple of players, they have relatively no playoff experience. But, they went out and acquired Cliff Lee for this very reason. last season he was 4-0 in 5 playoff games with 2 wins in the World Series. Much has been said about how easy it has been to run on the Rangers this season, and the Rays really like to run. That's what scares me about this series. However, since August 31 Tampa Bay starting pitchers not named David Price are 4-11 with a 5.25 ERA and game 2 starter James Shields was 0-4 with a 7.59 ERA. David Price is very good. If he wasn't he wouldn't be in the Cy Young award discussion. But after him they haven't been that great of late. Josh Hamilton was drafted by the Rays in 1999 and was poised to be in the outfield with Carl Crawford and Rocco Baldelli. Everyone knows of the problems that Hamilton had and how he found himself in Texas. I don't feel like i need to go into anymore detail about it here now. The key to Texas winning this series is Michael Young getting on base. his OBS this season was .330, if he gets on base and lets the 3 guys behind him drive him in, Texas will score a lot of runs. The Rangers decided this week that they will use 4 pitchers instead of 3. These 2 bullpens are the top 2 in the entire major leagues. It all starts in about 13 hours and I for one can not wait! I told you at the start that I am a Rangers homer, and my sunglasses might be red and blue. But, I say the Rangers win this one in 5.

STUDY HALL - WEEK FIVE

2010-10-01T14:18:00.000-05:00

Study Hall is our weekly College Football preview.

Most boring interview in college football HE IS A MAN, HE IS 40!

Sorry for the late posting this week, however there are five great games this weekend. Watched the Oklahoma State/Texas A&M game last night, wasn't terribly impressed with either team at times last night. OSU took a long time offensively to get going, while defensively seemed bound to fail with playing a seemingly soft Cover 2 all evening. TAMU on the other hand completely forgot that running the ball was a option given to them, as Jerrod Johnson (who wasn't on my top 10 list of CFB qb's) kept doing a Chad Pennington impersonation by throwing slow pitch softballs up the field last night. Elite quarterbacks do not turn the ball over 4 times in a game. On to the weekend! (all listed times Eastern)

Great place to be this Saturday.

#21 TEXAS vs. #8 OKLAHOMA 3:30pm ABC National

The 2010 Red River Shootout lost a whole lot of luster last week when Texas took it in the teeth thanks to UCLA. However, this game as always will go a long way to deciding who will be the Big 12 South representative in the title game in December across town. Both teams come in portrayed as underacheivers, with Texas' defense giving up a lot of rushing yards, while Garrett Gilbert hasn't been very impressive to go with a running attack that was billed as great yet hasn't done anything. Oklahoma on the other hand has looked unmotivated in 3 of their 4 victories, save a fantastic effort against Florida State. Landry Jones hasn't lived up to a lot of preseason hype either, depending on a whole lot of Demarco Murray. Four star game here, just for the atmosphere and how both teams have a great crowd behind them. I can't see Texas giving up a lot of yards to Murray and winning the game. Oklahoma's defense has been alright, not great but good enough to keep people out of the end zone. If Texas can hold Murray to 120-130 yards rushing, they will have a chance because then Jones still has to prove he can make plays. Think Oklahoma wins a low scoring, mistake filled game.

This man has ONIONS.

#11 WISCONSIN vs. #24 MICHIGAN STATE 3:30pm, ABC Regional

This game is much better than people think. Michigan State has ended up being decent enough being in the top 30 in both total offense and scoring defense in the nation. Wisconsin also has been impressive in their early season schedule, and brings a top 10 rushing attack into the game at Spartan Stadium. If you're a Big 10 guy, this is easily a four and a half star game. This game just keeps screaming John Clay to me. He already has over 500 yards rushing, and seems to be a great pick to control the tempo. Scott Tolzien is your basic vanilla Wisconsin QB that manages the game and wins it, just what Bret Bielema asks him to do. Kirk Cousins will be asked to do a lot to win this game for Sparty. With coach Mark D'Antonio in the coaches boxes after coming back from a heart attack, and being at home, Michigan State has a very good chance. The key will be making Wisconsin getting out of their comfort zone and throwing a lot, especially on first down. Just do not think Wisconsin is going to be blown away and will squeak by.

Two guys who get it done.

#7 FLORIDA vs. #1 ALABAMA 8:00pm CBS

I know these two teams have won the last few BCS titles. I know these two teams have shared the SEC title the last 3 years. This game, however, shouldn't be that close. Florida, even though they have won, has not looked very good in their games. The offense with John Brantley hasn't been great, and flat out atrocious the first 2 games. Getting the snap back in the shotgun has been a trip even. Furthermore, the one bright spot in Jeffery Demps was in a walking boot earlier this week. Alabama is at home, on a Saturday night, with a offense that gets it done with Greg McElroy, Julio Jones, Mark Ingram, and that FEROCIOUS defense. Ryan Mallett did gash them a little bit last week, but then the D tightened down hardcore and gave the offense a chance to win the game. I am just trying to figure out how Florida will win this game, and everything comes to Alabama not playing well. That isn't happening. Five star game here, and Bama should win by 2 touchdowns at home.

Loud. Very very loud.

#9 STANFORD vs. #4 OREGON 8:00pm ABC National

Autzen Stadium will be rockin with ESPN College Gameday there in the EARLY morning, and then will be ~~borderline~~ crazy when the game kicks off. Andrew Luck has been touted as a Heisman candidate, and to be honest with you, I have really not seen anything that gives me the reason he should be. Dayne Crist threw for more yards last week in the Stanford/ND game, and Luck has beefed up his numbers against teams like Wake Forest and Sacramento State. Oregon, on the other hand has the highest scoring offense in D-1, averaging almost a point a minute. There will be offense in this game, however Autzen is one of the places that you have to account for playing Oregon. It seems that most teams, when down more than one score, start getting frantic and go downhill very fast. This will be a test of Jim Harbaugh and his staff to get a team that is supposed to be a Top 10 team to have some poise and get through it. Another five star game here, potentially the Pac 10 title game here. Thinking that Oregon just has too much firepower to lose here. Not that Stanford's D is that bad, but Oregon's offense is just that damn good.

I AM A REAL AMERICAN, FIGHT FOR THE RIGHTS OF EVERY MAN!

#22 PENN STATE vs. #17 IOWA 8:00 ESPN

Two teams that need to get off to a great start in Big 10 play. Ricky Stanzi and Iowa try to get it back going after the loss against Arizona, while Penn State and Frosh QB Robert Bolden get it going after being embarassed by Alabama. One thing about this game: Iowa is fifth in the nation in points allowed, while Penn State is eighth. I do wish that Iowa brought back the throwbacks for this game instead of last week against Ball State, but that's just me. Penn State must play better than they did against Temple last week, and they are going to Kinnick where they lost 2 years ago on a field goal at the wire. Robert Bolden, meet Adam Clayborn. Iowa wins a low scoring affair.

This man wants a raise.

GEORGIA vs. COLORADO (may not be televised anyhow, read my rant, thank you god) FSN

This is your first one star to zero star game this year. Mark Richt needs it more than Dan Hawkins does, but don't watch unless your family is involved. Go clean the tub and toilet with your tongue, it will give you a better taste in your mouth than this will.

GAMES TO PAY ATTENTION TO:

Ohio State at Illinois: Terrell Pryor is smokin hot right now, and Zooker is in T R O U B L E.

Tennessee at LSU: Tennessee's D is good enough to make this game close. Wouldn't be shocked at the upset here, but this is LSU we're talking about.

Michigan at Indiana: Hoosiers are undefeated and at home. Be interesting to see how healthy Denard Robinson is.

Virginia Tech at North Carolina State: Hokies need this game or else the season could go south quickly.

Washington at USC: Sark and Locker have had 2 weeks for this game, while Kiffykins hates extra points.

FOOD AND BEVERAGES FOR THE WEEKEND:

My wife keeps telling me Hoagies sound good for dinner this weekend. I agree with her, quick and easy:

Steak and Cheese Hoagies
Recipe courtesy Sandra Lee

Ingredients
1 1/2 pound top round steak
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon spicy brown mustard
1 teaspoon chopped rosemary leaves
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
4 hoagie rolls, sliced down the middle
1 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon hot sauce

Directions

Heat an outdoor grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Preheat the broiler.
Season the steak with salt and pepper, to taste. Grill the meat until it is medium-rare, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.

In a large bowl, whisk together the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, mustard, rosemary, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.

Remove the steak from the grill to a cutting board, cover it with foil, and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Slice the steak thinly and toss the slices in the Worcestershire sauce mixture.

Spread the rolls open and arrange on a baking sheet. Sprinkle each roll with a 1/4 cup of the cheese and put them under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbling, about 1 to 2 minutes.

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and hot sauce. Spread the mayonnaise onto the bottom of each roll. Put a quarter of the beef into each of the rolls. (Reserve 4 pieces of beef for the Round 2 Recipe Couscous Stuffed Tomatoes). Cover with the roll tops, cut in half and serve.

Beverage for the weekend? Keep it sober folks, drink a Pepsi.

COACHES WHO BUMS ARE TOASTY:

Tim Brewster: three losses in a row in a new stadium isn't a way to keep your job, boss.

Ron Zook: enjoy Terrell Pryor running around you. Better hope it's Pryor's stinker for the year.

Mark Richt: has a way to get a feel good win against Colorado, better get it.

Dan Hawkins: lose to a underacheving Georgia team, hey they can't afford to fire you anyhow!

Mike Locksley: dude, why bother?

THE FINAL RANT:

Not popular right now, not at all.

If you have Dish Network and the extra sports tier, you woke up this morning to seeing 18 FOX channels not on the air. This is the current result of Dish and News Corp. in a pricing war. Dish Network claims that FOX took their channels off their air, however there are several FSN's still on the air, for example FSN Rocky Mountain, FSN Northwest, and FSN Pittsburgh. To Dish's credit, they are looking out for me as a subscriber as News Corp. wants to bump up their fees by over 50%, which me, the subscriber, would have to end up paying in some way in the future. However, no matter who is looking out for who, the people who lose are the subscribers who, in some instances, give up other things to have sattelite television. Personally, I'm in the last 2 months of my Dish contract, and currently pay $80/month to have what I have with no premium movie channels on my lineup (unless you consider Encore a premium channel, I sure don't). The hurtful thing is that, unless something changes very soon, the last weekend of baseball season, this whole week of College Fooball, and preseason NHL/NBA games are lost for the weekend at least to fans and people who thought they were getting them. I have no reason to go to DirecTV (and never will go back to Time Warner), but if this can't be fixed, I can't say personally I have a reason to stay. And, seeing on Twitter how many people are upset with this on the Dish Network feed (twitter.com/DishNetwork), I can't see this lasting and the company keeping subscribers. If you agree with me, please contact the President of both Fox and Dish (Dish's address is CEO@DishNetwork.com)

Have a great weekend, next week will be even better.

STUDY HALL - WEEK FOUR

2010-09-24T00:37:00.000-05:00

Editors note, Study Hall is our weekly college football preview. This is for the new ones, most of you know this MAN.

That Brian Kelly.. he needs to play Ron Pawlus against PENN STATE.

Week Four of the College Football season brings with it four very good games where ranked teams are battling each other. Winners of at least three of these games will bring validation and credibility to their national title statements. It will be a very interesting Monday in the polls after several of these games, especially if a certain WAC team looks very good. All times are Eastern.

Dear Fayetville, be careful what you wish for.

#1 ALABAMA vs. #10 ARKANSAS 3:30, CBS National

Ryan Mallett has been everything Arkansas fans and Bobby Petrino has hoped for this year so far. Mallett led a great game-winning drive at Georgia last week. Their reward for it is the Heavyweight Champions of the World till they are dethroned Alabama Crimson Tide. Greg McElroy has Mark Ingram and Julio Jones ready after last week's glorified scrimmage against Duke. This game is Five Star all day long. I think if Mallett can take what Alabama's D will give him (which isn't the long ball), he will be able to have a pretty good day. The problem is that I really don't think Arkansas's Defense will keep them in the game. Alabama has enough of a offense to turn it into a route real quick. Now, whether they gameplan to become conservative as they did last year and hope the Defense hits a home run, that's another thing. I don't think they will. The game being in Fayetville will help Arkansas stay in it early, however the physical nature of Marcel Darius and the Bama D will be too much.

Patience, Irish fan. Patience.

#16 STANFORD vs. NOTRE DAME 3:30, NBC

If this was anyone else but Brian Kelly coaching this Notre Dame team, the hate would be starting to flow pretty fast. However, Kelly has been very competitive in both losses to Michigan and Michigan State, something that Charlie Weis didn't seem to be in some games last year. Jim Harbaugh and Stanford come to Indiana for a matchup this weekend. Amazingly, Stanford leads all of D-1 in pass defense right now, but Crist and company will test them very quickly. I'm still not terribly sold on Andrew Luck being a excellent quarterback, even though he had a great game versus Wake Forest last week. This will be the first tough road enviorment for Luck without Toby Gerhart to help him out. I do think the Cardinal will be good enough to win, but this game will be very close, much closer than people may think. Three stars, primarily if you're not a SEC fan and can't stand watching Petrino or Saban (and you know who you are!)

Who the hell puts Chili on Spaghetti for God's sake?!?

#8 OKLAHOMA vs. CINCINATTI 6:00 ESPN2

This game has got to scare all the Sooner fans out there. Seems that Oklahoma doesn't have a real good focus against teams they should be throttling. Both Utah State and Air Force kept both games within a score, and while the defense showed up, the offense (primarily Landry Jones) seemed to lack a punch, minus DeMarco Murray. Bob Stoops takes his team to Cincinatti to face a Bearcats team that has also sorely underacheived against Fresno State and North Carolina State. However, both games were on the road, and Cincinatti is fairly good at home. However, even with Zack Collaros, the offense is 80th in the nation and doesn't show signs of meshing well. I just can't see how Cincinatti can stay in this game, but I also thought that Oklahoma would blow AF out of the building last week. Three and a half stars, to watch how Landry does against a defense that Russell Wilson blew up for 333 yards last Thursday.

God Bless the school that finally hires Gus Malzahn as Head Coach

#12 SOUTH CAROLINA vs. #17 AUBURN 7:45 ESPN

For all the attention Ryan Mallett is getting, Cam Newton's numbers have been pretty damn good also. He's the first real good Quarterback Gus Malzahn has had in about five plus years in the SEC with Arkansas and Auburn (think Houston wishes he hadn't shat on Gus yet?) While Auburn's offense has been pretty stout, South Carolina has found their own suprise in Frosh RB Marcus Lattimore. Lattimore has been nothing but great, averaging almost 5 yards a carry. Normally, this game screams of a Carolina-Spurrier chokejob on the road (like Georgia basically was), however the hidden gem with South Carolina is that they are 9th in America in scoring defense. Auburn had to scrap to beat Clemson last week in overtime, which will have them much more focused heading into this game. Four stars for this one. Think Lattimore gets his yards, but I still can't forget that 'ole Ballcoach is awful on the road. Auburn within a touchdown.

Oregon State painted their field, yet forgot the crowd, the altitude, the mystique...

#24 OREGON STATE vs. #3 BOISE STATE 8:00 ABC National

The last time we had Boise State on national television, Kellen Moore only led the Broncos on a 80 yard no timeout game winning drive against Virginia Tech and Bud Foster's defense. Since then, the Virginia Tech win has lost it's luster because of VT's lack of competitive nature. However, they can only control who they play and their style points against said opponents. Oregon State have the brothers Rodgers and Ryan Katz who can put up some points. People will be closely comparing how Boise plays against Oregon State and how TCU played them also. Three and a half on this game just for that reason. Boise and Moore should roll in this game, and then FINALLY will Kellen Moore get put in some Heisman talk.

Over/Under on this face on TV Saturday Night: 8.5

#22 WEST VIRGINIA vs. #15 LSU 9:00 (why in the hell so late?) ESPN2

A couple of 3-0 teams that a lot of America thinks are smokeshows will be playing pretty late on Saturday night in Death Valley. West Virginia really got lucky against Marshall twoweeks ago, but rebounded pretty well against Maryland. LSU on the other hand, has played well the last 2 weeks after almost giving up a 3 score lead against North Carolina. WV can move the ball with Noel Devine and Geno Smith and will do so against LSU's defense which is good but not top 10 in America in scoring D good. On the other hand, Stevan Ridley has been a pretty good suprise to take the pressure off of Jordan Jefferson's forecasted tepid start. Three and three quarters star game here, I'm interested to see if LSU's defense can slow down Noel and Geno enough to have the offense keep up. Think LSU wins a very close low scoring game, take the unders if you get it (for entertainment purposes only, of course!).

Other games of note to keep an eye on:

Northern Colorado at #25 Michigan State: thoughts to Mark D'Antonio, who officially has the biggest onions of any head coach in America after the fake FG winning throw against Notre Dame. Will be interesing to see how the Spartans come out after last week's events.

Virginia Tech at Boston College: The Hokies need this game more than anything, will not have fun against a Eagle defense that brings it at home. Tyrod needs a big game here because he doesn't have Ryan Williams.

UCLA at #7 Texas: Garrett Gilbert should get healthy after this game, and if he doesn't a lot of warning flags will go up. Also, you want to see how Will Muschamp will attack the Pistol formation.

Kentucky at #9 Florida: A game that looked way easier before the season than it does now for Florida and their offensive issues. Brantley had issues last week still, and it has to make you really wonder what's going to happen against teams like, oh, Bama.

#4 TCU at SMU (Friday night): SMU thinks they can play with the Horned Frogs in Dallas. TCU should roll, however I would love to see how many people make the 30 mile drive from Fort Worth to University Park.

THIS WEEK'S CONSUMABLES:

Most of you Northern types are starting to feel some chill in the air. I've been wanting some Chili, so here ya go..

Chunky Chicken and Chorizo Chili

Recipe courtesy Rachael Ray

Ingredients
•1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, 1 turn of the pan
•3/4 pound chorizo, chopped
•2 pounds ground chicken
•3 tablespoons chili powder, 3 palm fulls
•1 tablespoon ground cumin, a palm full
•1 onion, chopped
•3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
•1 red bell pepper, chopped
•1 (15-ounce) can red beans, drained
•1 bottle beer
•1 (28-ounce) can diced fire roasted tomatoes
•Salt
•6 cups chicken stock
•2 cups quick cooking polenta
•2 tablespoons butter
•2 scallions, finely chopped
•2 tablespoons freshly chopped thyme leaves

Directions

Heat a big, deep skillet over medium high heat with 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil. Add chorizo and render its fat, 2 minutes. Push the chorizo off to the sides of the pot and add chicken meat. Brown and crumble the chicken, 5 to 6 minutes. Season the chicken with chili powder and cumin while it cooks. Combine the onions, garlic, peppers and beans to meats and cook another 5 to 6 minutes. Stir the beer into the chili and reduce the liquid a minute then add the tomatoes and heat through. Season the chili with salt, to taste, and reduce heat to low.
Bring 6 cups stock to a boil in a medium pot, stir in polenta and keep stirring until the polenta masses and thickens to a porridge, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in butter, scallions and thyme and season with salt, to taste.
Fill bowls half way with polenta and make a well in the center. Fill up bowls with chili and serve.

Fantastic to eat through the whole day. As a beverage, Arnold Palmers will do the trick. Real Simple:

3/4 quart Lemonade
3/4 quart Iced Tea
1/2 quart Lemon Vodka or Limoncello (optional)

Stir together, enjoy

COACHES WHO REALLY NEED TO CHECK OUT MOVERS ON CRAIGSLIST:

Houston Nutt: we told you here first last week that Vandy wasn't a team to be ignored. Now Fresno State comes to Oxford. IF they lose this one... man, thought there were vultures around the program before... ugh

Ralph Friedgen: Maryland was fairly competitive last week but still lost against West Virginia. Florida International comes to town, and this game will be closer than people think.

Butch Davis: Even though Carolina is 0-2, they have fought very hard against two good teams (LSU, GT) and has been in both games till the end. Just imagine if the NCAA was done and things were back to normal. They could win this week at Rutgers, at the very least they will be in the game.

Mike Locksley: when there are rumors that Mike Leach could take over for you on your bye week, and people say he'd have LESS controversy than you, it's not a good thing.

THE HEISMAN WATCH:

Denard Robinson: didn't have a large letdown last week, think he needs to throw a little more to save his body for the whole year.

Ryan Mallett: you win this week sir, you will leapfrog to the number 1 spot no matter what Robinson does

Terrell Pryor: looked pretty good against Ohio last week. Made up for his mascot's lack of fight.

Taylor Martinez: tough first road start for anyone at Washington, and made them look very slow.

Now, what did DeLoss and Chip want me to say?

THE FINAL RANT:

Dan Beebe.. I have not heard one good word from anyone about him since June. Earlier this week, the Big 12 conference "negotiated" buyouts with Nebraska and Colorado so that both schools could leave the Conference by June 31st, making the Big 12 a ten team league. The big deal about this? Nebraska bought out for about $9.25 million, while Colorado got out for a little over $6 million. Beebe promised the remaining 10 schools that the total buyouts would go almost to $30 million dollars plus. I'm not a math major, but the combined total of a little over than $16 million doesn't really get there, in fact I'm pretty sure that's half. Now, I do get the point of the buyouts and not going to court, as to keep the confidential nature of the talks between all schools, conferences, and Beebe's office private. However, promising several teams $20 million dollars a share isn't a good idea, especially when the first promise you made fell through by a lot. Texas A&M AD Bill Byrne is still holding Beebe to his word that they will receive $20 million in revenue sharing for the 2011 season, as well he should. Beebe has kept telling people that the TV money will make up for this. Don't believe for one moment that ABC/FSN/Versus will double their payout for a conference that, while has one more conference game, will not have a conference title game in Arlington. The Big 12 current TV deal only televises 3 games a week, sometimes 4. I do see it possible that the fifth game will be televised, however I fully believe that the whole conference would not see that extra game (which means PPV more than likely). That could be the next rabbit Beebe pulls out of his hat, but there is no way ABC will pay more for it. Bottom line is this; do not believe anything that Beebe or anyone like Joe Schad or Chip Brown says about what could happen, it's all about what WILL happen.

Enjoy the games this week folks.

Who Will Win the Wild West?

2010-09-17T22:22:00.003-05:00

No, not the American League West. Although, if the Rangers do what the Padres have done and lose 10 in a row. We could very well be having that discussion next week.Three weeks ago, San Diego was more or less running away with the division, they had a seven game lead on the San Fransisco Giants then they have a 10 game losing streak. They are doing right now what every manager hopes he never has to go through. They played great baseball for five months. But in the last 3 weeks everything has gone downhill. The Padres made trades for 2 hitters that really didn't pan out how they wanted so far. They picked up Miguel 'how old am I?' Tejada, and Ryan Ludwick. But, their run scoring really hasn't gotten much better. Really that's been their biggest problem all season. The pitching has been superb. From Cy Young contender Matt Latos to all-star closer Heath Bell. Perhaps they have too many innings on them? Your guess is as good as mine!

San Fransisco has come from nowhere to take over the division lead. Led by first baseman Aubrey Huff, and rookie catcher Buster Posey. Posey will probably be shorted in the voting for rookie of the year, although he has had the stuff to win. He's going to fall in that category of where he has enough games to not be called a rookie next season, but doesn't have enough games to really win the award this season. In reality, who wins the NL West comes down to 1 person. Barry Zito. If he shows up as good as he has a few times this year, the Giants staff is the best in the NL. But if he shows up as bad as we've seen him this year as well, then they are just a mediocre staff. Bullpen wise San Diego has the advantage. When you have the guy with the most strikeouts since the end of the 2007 season in Tim Lincecum, and Matt Cain added with a potential good Barry Zito, you have a very dangerous team for the NL playoffs. the Giants finish the season off with 3 games against the Padres in what will be a very big final series of the regular season.The Colorado Rockies have absolutely come unglued lately having won 10 in a row at one point and have currently won 18 out of their last 23 and are leading the Dodgers in the 5th inning 5-3 right now. With the Padres having already lost, and the Giants being 3 hit and shutout in the 6th inning against Milwaukee tonight. It looks as though at the end of the night the Rockies will be down 1.5 to the Giants in their division. The Rockies have played all they will play against the Padres and only have 3 games left against the Giants. They have been led this season by Ubaldo Jiminez and Carlos Gonzalez. CarGo leads the team in every offensive category, and what he has done this season has really overshadowed the good year that Troy Tulowitski has had.

In the end this is all going to come down to the last series with the Giants and Padres. If Bruce Bochy plays his cards right and can finegle his pitching staff to have Lincecum, Cain, and Zito in the last series against the Padres, I full expect them to win it all.

STUDY HALL- WEEK THREE.

2010-09-17T02:07:00.001-05:00

(Editor's note... Study Hall is our weekly college football preview. Yes, I know it was called the Cheat Sheet.. that changed. Go back a few days and I explained why. HUZZAH!)

Come back soon Mike! I just can't quit you!!!

Week three of the college football season brings more intriguing matchup's while also kicking off conference games for certain teams. The great thing about starting the conference season for every team is that, no matter what happened at the start of the season, you still have a chance to win your conference. Some have better chances than others obviously, but it still gives you reasons to play on! Onto the games and this week's gradescale. All times are Eastern (yes, I changed that too PAY ATTENTION DAMNIT!)
FIVE STARS: you're not doing anything other than keeping your butt on the couch. Whatever needs to be bought can be done either online or Sunday morning. Stay home no matter what.

FOUR STARS: you can leave in case the fridge or washer/dryer dies. But, whereever we go, I'm spending the time in the A/V side where the TV's are. Be careful of saying "get whatever you want honey", because you will be broke after that and won't be able to get the bowl tickets for Shreveport.

THREE STARS: it's okay to leave the house, because you got sattelite radio for this reason. You could tape the game to watch later, in case anything later or early Sunday is unwatchable.

TWO STARS: you have the ESPN app for that reason.

ONE STAR: yes, take me to the mall and do not let me see a television. This game is for the families involved and that's all.

Trust me... no? Why not?

#12 ARKANSAS at GEORGIA Noon-ESPN

Ryan Mallett and his million dollar arm hits Sanford Stadium and faces what should be a better Bulldog defense that got zero help in a loss last week to South Carolina. Mark Richt will be on a massive hotseat if he happens to lose this game and go 2 games under in SEC East play. With an offense that is borderline anemic with no rushing from Washaun Ealey, the defense is going to have to shut down Bobby Petrino's offense and Mallett's arm in order to win this game. The thing that sticks out to me here is that Arkanas hasn't really lit up the building yet, and that makes me wonder. Mark Schlabach is calling the upset of Arkansas here. UGA is the more desperate team here, so that's why I agree and think Georgia will win this one, close game though. Three and a half stars on this one, because the country wants to know how good Georgia's defense AND if Arkansas and Petrino/Mallett can go on the road and play well in conference.

Do you know me? You will soon enough.

#8 NEBRASKA vs. WASHINGTON 3:30- ABC Regional

This is the first test for Nebraska and a team that, while is a top 10 team, no one really knows about. The offense has been better, led by Redshirt Freshman Taylor Martinez, who is in the top 10 in America in rushing. While on the other side, Jake Locker and Steve Sarkasian will be facing the best pass efficency defense in America. If Locker really wants to be a Heisman contender the rest of the season, he MUST prove it against this defense. The problem is, throwing against Prince Amukumara, Alfonso Dennard, and (arguably) the best secondary in college football will hurt. Locker is a career 50% passer, and has shown at times that he rushes in the West Coast system that Sark has installed. Nebraska should win easily here, but it's not a given. The Huskers have not taken care of the ball well and seem sloppy at times offensively. Four star game here; to find out how good Nebraska will be in a tough road enviorment.

HEY KNOXVILLE, MISS MY ASS YET?

#10 FLORIDA vs. TENNESSEE 3:30-CBS

Urban Meyer came out Thursday and told the media how "really upset" he is that the Gators' FBall team can't stay out of trouble with the police. Unfortunately, the dismissal of WR Chris Rainey won't be the only issue this week for him, as he takes his team into Neyland Stadium and faces a Tennessee team that, for all intesive purposes, quit on themselves last week against Oregon. Matt Simms and Tauren Poole have been solid so far for the Vols, but this will be the first true test against a defense that has played fairly well this year so far. John Brantley and Jeffery Demps should have good days against this team, but part of me just wonders how this team, who has pretty much has god awful starts against Miami-Ohio and South Florida will start on the road in front of 100k+. Three and a half here, think Florida wins a ugly yet close game.

Jordan Jefferson didn't lose me another game I WIN BITCHES!

MISSISSIPPI STATE vs #15 LSU 7:00- ESPNU

First off, I don't get how this game got put on ESPNU while Clemson/Auburn made ESPN for the night (TIGERS! TIGERS! COLLEGE FOOTBALL ON ESPN!). However, I do believe that this game is more important because I want to see how much confidence Les Miles has in Jordan Jefferson. It's not like Jarrett Lee is a ton better (there's a reason LSU fan calls him "LottoLee", for all the pick 6's he pitches). Gary Crowton took his best other option at quarterback with Russell Shepard and put him at WR, and he's been one of the best running options this team has. Dan Mullen's Bulldogs, while playing well last week, couldn't stop Cam Newton. I give Miss.St. a pretty good chance in this game, considering they're playing a offense without a whole lot of conference Three stars on this one, pay attention to it while you're at Hooters/BWW as you watch other games.

Ah, the ripples this catch caused in 2008. (p.s.. Fowler's face is still money!!)

#6 TEXAS vs. TEXAS TECH 8:00-ABC National

This is Tommy Tubberville's first true test to see if he can handle the Big 12's ~~self ordained kings~~ team to beat. Mack Brown brings a team that has been considered underacheivers by most of their media followers to Lubbock. Gone is Mike Leach, Crabtree, Colt McCoy and Graham Harrell. Replacing them is Fozzy Whitaker, who has made life easier for Garrett Gilbert, and Taylor Potts, who is playing well enough to keep Steven Sheffield off the field. They will be facing a Texas Defense led by Sam Acho, who has given up a lot of yards but kept teams from scoring. If you're a Big 12 fan, especially in the South, this is Five Star as they get. Great conference opener for both teams, to find out how good Tech can be, and how Texas will handle the crowd at Jones ATT Stadium. A lot of people are calling for the Tech upset, I'm really iffy on this one. Gilbert's first true road game (against Rice, with 80% of 80k wearing burnt orange isn't a road game) , and the unknown of how Tech will respond against a great opponent.

Keep an eye on these games:

UMass at #20 Michigan: Hard to get up for this game after beating Notre Dame. And of course, to see what Denard Robinson does.

Maryland at #21 West Virginia: Bill Stewart got lucky as hell last week. Better focus this week.

Arizona State at #11 Wisconsin: Steven Threet comes to Camp Randall, can he sneak a upset?

Baylor at #4 TCU: Frogs had trouble with Jacquizz Rogers, lets see how they handle Robert Griffin

#9 Iowa at #24 Arizona: I'm not buying Zona being good. This team quit in the Holiday Bowl vs. Nebraska. Hawkeyes should roll in this one.

CONSUMABLES FOR THE WEEK:

Those wings last week and the Long Island's were pretty good I have to admit. This week, I'm feeling a little bit Mexican, so lets go Tacos for food. This one is a little elaborate though, have some friends help:

Skirt Steak Tacos with Roasted Tomato Salsa

Recipe courtesy Bobby Flay

Prep Time:15 min Inactive Prep Time:5 min Cook Time:10 min
Ingredients

•8 (6-inch) flour tortillas
•1 1/2 pounds skirt steak
•2 tablespoons canola oil
•Salt and freshly ground black pepper
•1/2 head romaine lettuce, thinly shredded
•1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
•1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, halved and diced
•Grilled Tomato Salsa, recipe follows
•8 ounces sour cream

Directions

Heat grill to high.
Wrap tortillas in aluminum foil and on the top rack of the grill while the steak is grilling.
Heat grill pan over high heat. Brush steak with oil and season with salt and pepper on both sides. Grill on one side until golden brown and slightly charred, about 3 to 4 minutes. Turn the steak over and cook to medium-rare doneness, about 3 to 4 minutes longer. Let rest 5 minutes then slice against the grain into 1/4-inch thick slices.
Fill each tortilla with some lettuce, 3 to 4 pieces of meat, onion, grilled tomato salsa, sour cream, and avocado.

Grilled Tomato Salsa:

•2 tablespoons canola oil, plus more for brushing tomatoes
•2 serrano chiles
•1 small red onion, coarsely chopped
•4 cloves garlic, peeled
•6 plum tomatoes, halved and seeded
•Salt and freshly ground black pepper
•2 limes, juiced
•1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Heat grill to high.
Heat oil in a small saute pan and saute the chiles, onion, and garlic until soft.
Brush tomatoes with oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill on both sides until slightly charred and soft.
Transfer tomatoes and serrano mixture to a food processor; add the lime juice and salt and pepper and process until smooth. Add the cilantro and pulse a few times (there should be flecks of cilantro in the salsa.) Transfer to a bowl.

Solid work. Beverage this week? Simple, keep with the theme.. SANGRIA:

Sangria Perea

Recipe courtesy Guy Fieri

Prep Time:5 min

Ingredients
•3 cups ice cubes
•1/4 cup lemon slices
•1/4 cup lime slices
•1/4 cup orange, slices
•1/4 cup pineapple chunks
•1/4 cup seedless grapes
•2 cups red wine
•1/2 cup peach brandy
•1 cup orange juice
•1 cup lemon/lime soda

Directions
In a pitcher, add all the ingredients and stir to combine. Ideally, you want to wait about 1 hour for the fruit and the wine to infuse each other, but you can drink it right away.

No mascots to hate on today. I'm full of love and all that mushy crap.

/whip
/mancard removal

Coaches checking their contracts to see how much their buyout is:

Ron Zook: Not fun times in Champagne at all right now. Northern Illinois comes to town this week, better win big. Even if it won't help, but winning huge is better than making it close, or losing.

Butch Davis: Even more interest of the bad type around the football program, no matter who isn't playing or coaching. It's bad when Roy Williams is distancing himself from you, and you share the same campus. And, to make it worse, you have a Georgia Tech team with a pissed off Paul Johnson and Joshua Nesbitt coming into town. Winning goes a long way, losing... not good.

Frank Beamer: You really can't go 0-3 against East Carolina.... can you???

Mike Locksley: Ugly against Texas Tech, gonna get worse against Utah

Houston Nutt: Reverend Nutt BOY WE HANDLED THEM GREEN WAVE NOW DIDN'T WE DON'T LOOK AT THE SMOKESHOW I CALLED THAT PLAY BROTHER.... don't blink, Vandy is better than Jacksonville State (we simulated on NCAA '09, WE KNOW).

THE FINISHING RANT OF THE WEEK:

Lets look at one thing that bothers me about the Reggie Bush/USC/Heisman angle. Take away that the NCAA only punished the school over what they found with Bush's stories (or lack thereof) about being paid while in school, and his surrendering of the Heisman trophy. Think of the money that USC is still going to get paid for being in the PAC 10. Don't forget this one thing.. unless I am mistaken (and I'm fairly sure I am not, if I am, please put in the comments where I am and I will retract this), USC will still get equal bowl revenue from the bowl season that the PAC 10 will receive. In other words, even though they are on a post-season ban, they will get the same amount of $$$ that the last place team (more than likely Wazzu). How is this fair? Yes, I know they have gotten a lot of BCS bowl money for the conference, but that money was already going to end up in the conference. No matter if USC or someone else won the conference, the money was showing up. The only difference is if a second P-10 team made the BCS, and even then it was only a $5 million dollar extra payday. Outside of ticket sales (which schools keep a percentage after selling a certain number), each team got the same amount. The Stanfords got the same as the Cal's and the Washington's, even after the winless season. I already thought that USC should have lost all regional/national TV for the next 2 years, but what would have made a bigger impact is limiting what USC would get monetarily. They should have been made to forfeit a percentage (50% sounds fair) of their conference revenue. It's not like that school is going to hurt for money; they sell out the L.A. Coliseum and do well on gate revenue as well as playing in a large market. The NCAA is huge right now on going a little overboard on punishments for infractions (see Dez Bryant last year), this is a simple case where they didn't go hard enough.

We thank you for visiting us to get your knowledge. Feel free to retweet or put on Facebook our articles (you can click on the logo just below the post). The more people know, the more we can bring you. Have a fun and safe weekend everyone.

Why the New York Yankees are NOT the team to beat this October.

2010-09-16T16:06:00.005-05:00

Yes, I know that they are the defending world champions. Yes, I know that until you are dethroned you are still the king. However, neither the ALCS or World Series goes through New York this year, and here is why.

1) Matchups: Yes, the Yankees have what will be the AL Cy Young award winner. But the other 3 teams that will be in the AL playoffs all match up with the Yanks very well. So far this year against the Tampa Bay Rays the Yanks are 6-6 with 4 games still to go. Against the Rangers they are 4-5 and losing 4 of their last 6 and 3 in a row against them. Against Minnesota they are 4-2. That being said. Yes, they do have a winning record against the rest of the playoff contenders. But by a close margin. 3 games over .500 against 3 teams is not alot.

2) Age: The Yankees average age is 29.37 with 6 players 35 or older. The average age for all MLB players is 27.2 (bleacherreport.com). A-Rod, Jeter, Pettite, Rivera and Posada are all over 35. Jeter has seen a 60 point drop in this batting average over the last year. He is normally a .320 hitter and now he is right at .260.

3) Injuries) Andy Pettite comes back from an injury on Sunday. Meanwhile Nick Swisher was hurt in the series against the Rangers. Jorge Posada has been relegated to pinch hitting duty due to a concussion and Mark Texiera has a broken toe. How healthy they are come postseason time is vital to their success.

4) Peak performance: Yes, both the Yankees and Rays are still playing good baseball, perhaps the Rays better than the Yanks of late. But, nonetheless they are both still great teams. It seems as though the Twins and the Rangers have started peaking at the perfect time, just before the playoffs start. If the Yankees have all of their key components playing and healthy come playoff time, they will be a force to be reckoned with. But with their age, that is a big step right now.

5) scheduling for the rest of the regular season: with 18 games to go, the New York Yankees are half a game out of first, and lead the Red Sox by 6 games in the wild card. they have a 7 game stretch in their final games where they face the Sox for 6 and the Rays for 4. What's not to say that the Sox get fired up and make a late season push for the wildcard? Yes, they are still injured, but they are also still capable. Do i expect this? no. But it is possible.

At the end of the day, the AL East is the most interesting storyline in all of baseball as it is seamingly every season. One thing is for sure. There's still a lot of baseball to be played, and it's going to be fun!

Week 1 Fantasy Impact

2010-09-14T18:57:00.002-05:00

Week 1 of the NFL season is officially in the books, and what a definitely entertaining week 1 it was. From a fantasy football perspective, there were definitely some big performances and developments which will play a huge role all season long. From breakout performances (Arian Fosterand Hakeem Nicks) to damaging injuries (Ryan Grant), the impact will surely be felt by owners.

Biggest developments of the week

Foster scored at will against the Colts
porous run defense in week 1

Arian Foster (RB, Texans) - To the hardcore fantasy football players, this doesn't come as quite as big of a surprise as it does to most others, as with the loss of rookie running back Ben Tate in the preseason and the fact that Steve Slaton has completely fallen out of favor in Houston meant that Foster was the lead guy, and with all the talk of his talent, he was going to bust out at some point, but nobody expected it to be week 1 of the season, against the defending AFC champion Colts, and to this extent. He carved up the porous Colts defense to the tune of 231 yards and 3 TD's on 33 carries, making everyone further forget about Slaton, and remember the terrible Colts run defenses of recent years.

Will he perform like this game in and game out? Well no, that's a phenomenal game and far to much to expect, but he is a definite threat to put up triple digit yards and multiple scores every game, and highly reward fantasy owners who snagged him up anywhere from the 3rd to 6th round.

Ryan Grant (RB, Packers) - This one is nearly as big a story as that of Foster, but unfortunately, for a completely opposite reason. Grant started out his season looking strong in the Packers high octane offense, tallying 45 yards on his first 8 carries. But on that 8th carry, Grant went down wrong on his ankle, and left week 1 with what was said to be a sprained ankle. As a fantasy owner, you hear sprained ankle for a running back, and you hate it, because it could so easily be a high-ankle sprain, and force them to the sidelines for multiple weeks, but you don't ever anticipate to hear out for the season from an ankle sprain.

Well, unfortunately, this case is one of the latter. It has been determined that grant damaged ligaments in his ankle, likely forcing surgery, and ending his season nearly as quickly as it began. This can potentially be devastating to fantasy owners, as he is a late 2nd and early 3rd round pick, and an every week starter. Fantasy owners everywhere will be fighting on the waiver wire to pick up new Packer starter Brandon Jackson, especially owners of Grant. As an owner of Grant myself in a big league, one in which I am left with Beanie Wells and Jerome Harrison as my only 2 backs who will get many touches, it damages my team quickly, because I am in a bad waiver position and will not get Jackson.

Matt Forte catching the go ahead TD,
A catch many receivers may not have made

Matt Forte (RB, Bears) - Yes, it was against the Lions, so owners of Forte need not get over excited, but wow, what a huge game for the 2009 first round fantasy bust Forte. He only had 50 yards rushing on 17 carries (less than 3 yards per carry), but it was as a receiver where Forte blew up. He totaled 151 yards on 7 catches, including an 89 yard catch and run for a score, and later adding an acrobatic 28 yard score, making fantasy owners extremely happy, at least for the time being. He nearly added a 3rd TD but failed to get in from 1-yard out, or else he would have taken over the star of the week and overshadowed Foster.
It is worth noting that Chester Taylor was not completely quiet on the week, as he had 12 touches totaling 73 yards on the day, and will definitely get his share going forward, but owners of Forte are clearly happier this season so far than they were a year ago.

Hakeem Nicks catching
one of his 3 scores

Hakeem Nicks (WR, Giants) - Think Plaxico Burress, take away the gun toting in the nightclub, subtract a few years off his age, and you get Nicks. He showed signs a year ago of being primed to breakout as a star, and in week 1 of his sophomore season, he came through already. He caught only 4 passes on the day from Eli Manning for 75 yards, but 3 of them for scores. He was drafted significantly lower than teammate Steve Smith in fantasy drafts, mainly because Smith will catch a ton of balls, but Nicks will almost undoubtedly have more yards many weeks, and is a much better chance to score. By years end, he will make owners regret drafting Smith over him, although I do think Smith will produce quite well on his own.

Peyton Manning (QB, Colts) - It seems every year he gets bumped down in fantasy drafts by another quarterback or two, going behind Drew Brees and Aaron Rodgers often times this year, but every year, all he does is reward those owners who took him. On Sunday, he put up 433 yards, and 3 scores on 57 pass attempts, AND THEY LOST! That last part was thrown in because it cannot be expected that Manning attempts 57 passes very often, but if their run defense cannot keep teams in check, Manning may be throwing even more, and this is Peyton Manning people, he completes a ton, and makes receivers fantasy stars, as he did with Austin Collie this week, connecting 10 times for 131 yards and a score with the second year wideout, and making people quickly realize that Anthony Gonzalez is the definitely 4th receiver, and 5th option once Dallas Clark is factored in.

Week 1 disappointments

Week in and week out, there are sure to be plenty of disappointments from a fantasy perspective, and the biggest of those usually always comes from the guys who are drafted in the first few rounds, because they have the most stock and hopes put on them, and when they don't put up big numbers, it can mean a loss for an owner, and so often, panic.

The key is to not panic, and relax, and realize, it's one week. You drafted these guys for a reason, and as long as they remain healthy, almost undoubtedly, they will produce for you.

It's those guys who disappoint week after week that you must truly worry about.

There were plenty of highly drafted players who failed to put up numbers to satisfy owners in week 1...

Quarterback

Aaron Rodgers - It may not be his fault, as he has very little time to throw the ball with that line, but if that continues, it will be quite tough for him to threaten 5,000 passing yards, and there will be more turnovers than owners would like to see. He threw for 2 scores, but only 188 yards from Rodgers is far below expectations.

Drew Brees - The Saints took the opening kickoff of the season, marched down field in 2 minutes and 4 second, and scored on a strike from Brees to Dev Henderson, and we all thought, here we go! That was pretty much it for him on the night, however. He got to 237 yards on the night, but only the 1 score, and missed some open receivers on a night when the Vikings were more less than thin at the cornerback position.

Matt Schaub - He puts up 107 yards compared to Manning's 433, and he beat Manning?!? Schaub went only 9 of 17, with 1 score and 1 interception, but all he really needed to do was give it to Foster on the day to win. He will heat up quickly with wideout Andre Johnson and company.

Running backs

Michael Turner - He put up a whopping 42 yards on 19 carries, and only added another 7 yards on one catch. Yes, it was against the Steelers tough defense, but still, it was definitely expected that Turner would average far better than 2.2 yards per carry, but he will be just fine going forward, and there is no sign that any carries will be vultured away from the fantasy workhorse.

Cedric Benson - The guy who it seemed like nobody wanted to buy into as a top tier type running back, and people dreaded drafting because after all, it's still Cedric Benson, and he did little to put owners at ease against New England. Sure, he did score late, but still averaged less than 3 yards per carry on 15 carries. With T.O. in town, and rookies Jermaine Gresham and Jordan Shipley to go along with Chad Ochocinco, the passing game will undoubtedly take away from Benson's opportunities as the year progresses.

Shonn Greene - His chance to take over the starting gig, and what did he do with it? He fumbled twice, one of them caused by his own offensive lineman's backside, and lost 1. All told, he only carried the ball 5 times for 18 whole yards in week 1. Meanwhile, LaDanian Tomlinson took full advantage of his chance, running for 62 yards on 11 carries and adding 16 yards on 2 receptions, all against one of the toughest defenses in all of the league in the Ravens. Perhaps, LT wasn't done after all, and this could get quite interesting going forward.

Wide Receivers

Andre Johnson - The unquestioned star of the receiving group this year did very little in week 1, catching only 3 passes for 33 yards, but this had nothing to do with him not getting open and catching passes, the Texans simply did not have the need to throw with that performance by Arian Foster. He's still Andre Johnson, the Texans will throw plenty, and he will still make owners very happy.

Larry Fitzgerald - The guy who is right there with Johnson as the top receivers in the NFL, also did little in week 1. He did score late to salvage the day a bit, but only caught 3 of 15 passes thrown his way. This is due to the lack of time in the preseason with new quarterback Derek Anderson, and with some time to build some chemistry together, it will most likely be Fitzgerald catching the bulk of the passes for more than 100 yards instead of Steve Breaston. Though it is worth noting that Breaston is poised for a big year with the departure of Anquan Boldin.

Michael Crabtree - This guy wasn't drafted quite as high, but the hopes sure are high for him. He rewarded fantasy owners with a stellar 12 yard performance on 2 catches. This is due in part of Alex Smith, but he must get open. That time not on the field in August showed right away.

Transaction of the week

Ryan Grant (drop) - With the news of Grant being out for the season, he can obviously be dropped in leagues, and owners all over will be going after incumbent running back Brandon Jackson.

Fred Taylor (add) - He showed at the ripe old age of 88, he can still run, racking up 71 yards on 14 carries. With the news coming out today that Laurence Maroney was traded to the Broncos, and Sammy Morris only getting 1 carry on Sunday, this job appears to belong to Taylor.

Mark Clayton (add) - He only joined the Rams just over a week ago, and still has rookie Sam Bradford to toss him the ball, but he got 16 targets, and caught 10 for over 100 yards. He is the most experienced receiver they have, and showed it in week 1.

Mike Thomas (add) - Mike Sims-Walker was drafted relatively high in most drafts. Mike Thomas went largely undrafted. Thomas caught 6 balls for nearly 100 yards. Sims-Walker failed to record a catch. Could be a sign of things to come going forward.

Kyle Orton (add) - This guy seems to continuously be overlooked as a fantasy quarterback. No clue as to why. Is it because people somehow think Tebow is going to take the job? Can't be. He got in for a few plays, but never threw the ball, all the while Orton nearly threw for 300 yards on the day in the sweltering heat, and looks poised to have a very nice season throwing the ball. You can do worse.

Keep and eye on these guys

Lance Moore (WR, Saints) - The Saints throw a ton. Lance Moore was their main guy just 2 seasons ago, before being hurt much of last season. He's the best slot option they have, and is now healthy. He won't be a Wes Welker type out of the slot, but he will work his way back into a bigger role in that high octane offense.

Early Doucet (WR, Cardinals) - The Cardinals will throw a lot with Anderson, contrary to what people thought with the departure of Warner. Doucet, when healthy seeing as how he left week 1, will take over the role that Breaston played for the last few years and can put up some nice games.

Larod Stephens-Howling (RB, Cardinals) - If Hightower continues to have fumbling issues, then even with Wells back, LSH can play a larger role, seeing as how he is the quickest of the backs they have, and a great change of pace guy. If an injury plays a longer role with either Wells or Hightower, he can get some good work in both running and receiving.

Dmitri Nance (RB, Packers) - Brandon Jackson now is the lead guy. John Kuhn is a bruiser who may score the TD's. But Jackson once lost the job before in 2007 to Grant, and he has never shown to take a lot of punishment. Nance was just signed, and most assuredly will get work going forward.

Kevin Faulk (RB, Patriots) - The other 80+ year old back on the Pats. He's the guy who catches a lot of passes, and does a lot with his limited carries. May see a few more touches without Maroney around to take any.

He can win some games for you

Mike Vick (QB, Eagles) - It's not secret what he can do, it's just how often will he get the chances. Kolb may be out a few weeks, so Vick will get his chances for now. Just who knows what chances he will get once Kolb is back. Vick has potential to win you some games.

Don't even bother

Brandon Lloyd (WR, Broncos) - He has teased at times for years, then disappears. He had a nice week 1, but the Broncos and Orton will use Jabar Gaffney, Eric Decker, and Demaryius Thomas more going forward, and Lloyd will probably fade.

Deion Branch (WR, Seahawks) - The guy has done little with the Seahawks. They let go of Houshmandzadeh, so the thought it Branch should get more chances. Sure, he caught a TD in week 1, but only caught 3 balls, and the other Deon is better, and will catch more as weeks go on.

Good luck as your seasons go on. Enjoy football as much as you can, it's not here long enough.

Stay tuned for more fantasy information and my thoughts on the upcoming games as well as each week's recap.

September baseball!

2010-09-14T15:53:00.002-05:00

Once again, it is September and once again, the Colorado Rockies are surging. Having won 17 of their last 22 and just coming off 10 wins in a row they have closed to within 2.5 games of the Padres in their division race and are 3.5 games out in the NL wild card with 18 games left. Of the 18 games left, only 5 of them are against the 2 teams ahead of them in the division. Although, only being down 2.5 games anything can happen.

The NL East is another big story. Two months ago it was seemingly Atlantas division to lose. Well, they have. It seems as though the Phillies just weathered the storm until they had everyone healthy and off to the races they went. The Phillies lead by 1 game, however the Braves lead the wildcard over the Giants by 1.5. The only race in the NL that isnt close by anymeans is the NL Central where Joey Votto and the Reds are rolling along and up by 7 games.

The AL East is a fun one. Everyone knew coming into the year that it was going to be a 3 team race, and it was for a decent portion of the season. Unfortunately for the Red Sox, they couldn't hold off the injury bug, and for about a 2 month stretch, they were playing w/ players i had never heard of. When you lose Ellsbury, Pedroia, Buckholtz, Beckett and Youkilis for a good portion of your season, you are going to hurt for a while. The fact that they are only 7.5 out of first with all of those injuries is a testament to how good of a job Terry Francona does of managing that club. This division will have 2 teams in the playoffs and home field advantage is going to be a dogfight until the end for the Rays and Yankees. If the season ended today, the Rays and Rangers would meet up in the first round, and the Yankees and Twins would meet up in the first round.

Being that it is September it's getting close to time for the 6 major end of season awards. Here are my picks:

NL Rookie of the year: Jason Hayward, He started off strong with a 3-run home run in his first at bat of the season and is ending strong batting nearly .400 for the last 7 days.

NL Cy Young: There can be a case made for Adam Wainwright and Roy Halladay who both are within striking distance of 20 wins. But in my mind it goes to none other than Ubaldo Jiminez. Jiminez is 18-6 with a 2.75 ERA. Yes, this is very comparable to the other two. But, Jiminez pitches in a much more hitter friendly park than that of Halladay or Wainwright. Everygame this guy pitches from here on out is a big game, and he is a big game pitcher. If his team makes the comeback as we have been acustomed to, then he deserves it even more in my opinion.

NL MVP: Since the all-star break, 2 names have been being dropped for the MVP. Alber Pujols and Joey Votto. Both are very good and are having stellar years. We are used to it from Pujols, yes, and in a few years we will be used to it from Votto. I had been on the fence about who i liked in this race. I like Votto's spunk. He has been thrown out of 4 games this year by arguing for himself and his team. Pujols on the other hand is the consumate professional, currently in his 9th straight year with 100 RBI's and a absolute beast at the plate. Tim Hudson was coined with saying "If you get too much of the plate with this guy, you are either backing up 3rd base or getting a new ball." and he is 100% correct. As i said, both are deserving. But my choice for NL MVP is Carlos Gonzalez out of Colorado. He leads both in batting average, is close in RBI's and is only 1 home run behind Votto (neither will catch Pujols). If you take any of the 3 away from their team, the teams are no where close to where they are. CarGo has burst onto the scene and was part of the deal with Matt Holliday a few years ago.

AL Rookie of the Year: Okay, this is the part where you all will call me a Homer. If i had a vote, it would go to Neftali Feliz, he is currently 1 save away from tying the rookie save record set by Kazihiro Sasake of the Seattle Mariners in 2001. Although, any year that a rookie closer has had a comparable year, and another rookie batted .300 or better, the hitter has always won. Austin Jackson of the Tigers is batting .305 this season, but only has 3 HR and 32 RBI's. My choice is still Feliz.

AL Cy Young: I've heard people say Felix Hernandez should be the shoe in, I've heard people say Clay Buckholtz. It seems they are overlooking the most obvious choice. Yes both of those guys have great stuff. But, Felix pitches in no big games, because the M's have been out of it since about May 5th. Buckholtz was injured for around a month. But C.C. Sabathia has been nothing short of stellar this season. He is the best. Without him the Yankees wouldnt be in such a tight race with the Rays right now, and that's a fact.

AL MVP: A month ago. It was Josh Hamiltons, who had done everything and anything for the Rangers, except for pitching (which is what he was drafted for by the Rays). Then he ran into a wall in Minnesota and hasnt played a game since. No player has ever won a MVP and played less than 10 games in the month of September. He is slated to come back on Thursday to open a set with the Mariners. If he does that, he will play around 15 games in September. If he comes back to the way he was the rest of the year. Then yes, he should win the MVP. Otherwise It will be Miguel Cabrera, who is on pace to break the AL record for most intentional walks.

Hope you all have a great day!

Editors note.....

2010-09-14T15:23:00.001-05:00

this is how my Wednesdays feel sometimes..

Hi kids... A couple of changes we are going to make this week...

- the Cheat Sheet will not feature the CFB preview for the week anymore. Instead, the Cheat Sheet will be Tyson's fantasy forecast for the upcoming NFL weekend. We tried to come up with a name for his FF posts, and I couldn't think of anything else, so when you see the Cheat Sheet, know it's not the college forecast.

- The new name for the college preview will be "Study Hall". Sounds more collegiate. I have a friend who is working on better food/beverage combo's, as well as keeping an open mind for other things you folks want to read about.

- I also have been meaning to get out a summarization of the College Football weekend, but due to some time issues on the weekends, I haven't been able to get those out very well, and for that I apologize.

We thank every single one of you for visiting us, no matter what brings you here. Keep visiting, reading, and telling your friends about us.

BT, Tyson, Gid, and DL3

Football Monday; knee-jerk reactions and a deeper look

2010-09-13T10:35:00.001-05:00

With the first Sunday of the new NFL season in the books, and what an extremely entertaining one it was, there will be plenty of knee-jerk reactions to the day's actions, especially by the fans. Many are already approaching freak-out status, while many others are undoubtedly trying to look for deals to Arlington in February for the Super Bowl.

Some of these reactions deserve a deeper look however, and may not be just a jerk of the knee afterall.

What did we gather from this Sunday's action, and even last Thursday with the Saints-Vikings...

1. The Cowboys have a LONG way to go if they are to be true Super Bowl contenders.

You mean you aren't allowed to grab
the neck?

The knee-jerk part: Immediately after the holding call by Alex Barron that will be talked about for weeks because it took away the touchdown that would have won the game as time expired, there are cries all over to just flat out leave the guy in D.C., and even right along side him, leave Tashard Choice after his first half ending fumble which was scooped up by DeAngelo Hall to give the Redskins a 10-0 lead at halftime rather than just 3-0. Never mind looking deeper into it, just cut those guys here and now right?

Taking a step back: Had Alex Barron not grabbed Brian Orakpo by the neck there, it looked like there was a pretty good chance that Orakpo was going to get to the scrambling Tony Romo and perhaps end the game even without a throw, or surely not give him enough time to find Roy Williams in the front corner of the end-zone. Also, it's easy to blame Choice for the fumble, as it is his responsibility to protect the ball and get to the ground there, but why in the world are they running a short dump off pass play like that in the waning seconds when it had no chance of scoring? Jason Garrett must be held accountable for that one right with Choice. Just take a simple knee and go in down 3-0. Instead, with that, you're down 10-0, and it completely changes the complexity of the game. Garrett is moving right up my list of people who should still be cut/fired!!!

Bottom line is the Cowboys had offensive issues all preseason, not being able to move the ball enough to put up points, and while people wanted to say the oft-used phrase "it's only preseason", well, it doesn't appear to be changing much, as the same exact problems persisted. Sure, they can definitely right the ship and win a bunch of ballgames with the talent they have and the line could gel, but until that begins to happen, it's going to be some hard living on the offense, and most notably, the running game.

The Cowboys have been a sexy Super Bowl pick all off season, and really, most people don't know why. They have won a grand total of 1 postseason game in 14 years, and most recently, scored 3 against the Vikings last January, and the line was the big issue then. Romo is doing all he can, but he needs some blocking to get his offense clicking.

2. The AFC South is going to be a ton of fun to watch unfold

Knee-jerk reaction: The division is now the Texans to lose after a 34-24 defeat of the defending AFC Champion Colts. After losing 15 of their first 16 meetings with the Colts, they finally thoroughly outplay Peyton and friends behind the breakout performance of running back Arian Foster (Steve Slaton who?) who rumbled for 231 yards and 3 touchdowns on the day. It's so each to say this is a sign of things to come, but on top of the Colts, there are still the Titans and the pesky Jaguars to deal with.

Taking a step back: This is still Peyton Manning and this is still the Indianapolis Colts, who have all the experience in the world in getting to the second season, compared to none from Houston. Yes, it was a very nice win for the Texans, but the game was in Houston, and playing at home is always an advantage, and they have been showing vast improvement for a few years, but one week is not enough to say it's time for them to own this division. But if Foster keeps running like that and they can win without a big performance by Andre Johnson, and the Colts with Bob Sanders keep struggling against the run, there could be some struggles in this division for the Colts when they still have Chris Johnson and Maurice Jones-Drew to face twice, and we could be in for a very exciting divisional race between these 4 teams.

For 1 week at least, the Colts sit dead last in the AFC South with their 0-1 record.

3. Mike Vick can still play, and play effectively

The decision of who should start got
a bit more cloudy on Sunday, once
Kolb is healthy that is.

Knee-jerk reaction: Vick needs to be the starter for this team and Kolb already should go back to being the back-up, with or without the injury. Vick did play great in place of Kolb after Kolb went down with a concussion, going 16 of 24 for 175 yards and a TD, along with 103 rushing on 11 carries and nearly leading the Eagles to a comeback against the Packers, and he very well may get more time as the starter as a concussion can obviously linger, especially in the case of quarterbacks, but at the very least, Vick has forced Andy Reid to give him more time on the field.

Taking a step back: This is still Mike Vick, the guy who has never been a great passer in the NFL, often times is too quick to abandon the pass and go to the run, and the guy who missed multiple seasons while in prison. He definitely still has all the talent in the world, and is a very dynamic player, but it's far to soon to make the rash decision to give him the starting job once Kolb is healthy and ready to play again, be it next week or in a few weeks.

Either way, it gave the Eagles fans another element to watch for and made the game with Green Bay exciting quickly.

4. Not so fast on the crowing the 49ers NFC West Champs already

Knee-jerk reaction: The knee-jerk reactions for this one began way back in January with the retirement of Kurt Warner, leaving a void at quarterback in Arizona. From that very moment on, it was so trendy to pick the 49ers as easy NFC West Champs in 2010, even before the Super Bowl took place last season.

Then, after the drubbing on Sunday at the hands of the Pete Carroll and the Seattle Seahawks 31-6, all of a sudden the Seahawks are all the way back, and getting ready to re-take control of the division. Suddenly, the 2-time defending champion Arizona Cardinals are a complete afterthought to those with their quick rash reactions.

Taking a step back: I have said all along, that the 49ers are still led by Alex Smith, and are one of the most inconsistent teams in the NFL, right along with the Seahawks. The 49ers have had games over the past couple season where everything clicks and they play well, with games like their dominance over Arizona in December of last season, then have far to many games like this Sunday against the Seahawks. Then, there's the Seahawks, who undoubtedly got a very nice win over San Fran, but may be even more inconsistent than the 49ers, and are still coming off back to back terrible seasons. The Seahawks hype will fade much quicker, but the 49ers still have plenty of issues.

Meanwhile, Arizona goes out, and wins their first game sans Kurt Warner behind new quarterback Derek Anderson. No, it's wasn't pretty by any means in a 17-13 victory over rookie QB Sam Bradford and the Rams, but it was a victory on the road no less, which is always tougher no matter who a team faces. Anderson went 22 of 41 for 297 yards, but most importantly, no interceptions. He had obvious timing issues with star receiver Larry Fitzgerald, who was out for the majority of the preseason, only completing 3 of 15 attempts to him. With some time to build chemistry together and get on the same page, along with Steve Breaston helping people quickly forget about Anquan Boldin, things may only get better. The real issue lies with Tim Hightower and his fumbles, losing 2 yesterday. Beanie Wells has had his issues as well, no doubt, but it's his opportunity to seize after the performance by Hightower.

Bottom line is, it is far to premature to crown the 49ers already. They still have Alex Smith, defensive backfield holes, and Frank Gore showed his inconsistency again with all of 28 yards on 17 carries. The Cardinals are not a team to sleep on just yet. I will stick by my prediction that the Cardinals can still scratch out another divisional title.

5. The Giants are healthy on the defensive line again, and dangerous.

Just going to skip the reactions on this one, and get right to it. Just 2 seasons ago, the Giants dominated the NFC in the regular season following a Super Bowl title before losing to the Eagles in the postseason. Last season, they had all the defensive line issues in the world, and couldn't pressure opposing QB's. They got healthy this off season, with Umenyiora fully healthy to go alongside Justin Tuck, then they added potential superstar Jason Pierre-Paul in the draft. Kenny Phillips is back at safety after missing much of 2009, and Antrel Rolle is next to him back there, both are incredible ball hawking safeties.

Yes, they still have Eli leading them an his tendency to make mistakes, and he was no stranger to them this Sunday with 3 interceptions, but he also threw 3 touchdowns, 2 to up and coming star receiver Hakeem Nicks, and the team finally decided to give Ahmad Bradshaw the bigger share of carries over Brandon Jacobs. Yes, it was against the Panthers, who many feel are in a downward swing currently, but it was a nice win no less.

All that added together, and the Giants are a very dangerous team once again, and a serious contender for the NFC East title. They have been my pick to win that division all along, and with the struggles of Dallas, it looks just a little more like a possibility after 1 week.

Some other quick takes...

-Lions quarterback Matt Stafford already is injured, once again with shoulder issues. The kid has all the talent in the world to be a good QB, but cannot avoid injury early on.

-The Lions also lost after having a go ahead TD taken off the board when Calvin Johnson did not "complete the process of the catch". Yeah, baffled me too. But I suppose the right call. read about it here.

-Matt Forte was a superstar yesterday, but not because of his running, but his receiving, going for 151 yards on 7 catches and 2 TD's, helping make QB Jay Cutler look good. (On a side note, I had the decision to start either Cutler or Stafford at QB on a fantasy team this week. I took Cutler, good call by me)

-The Dolphins and Bills played, and the Dolphins won 15-10, but it was painful to try and watch. little else can be really added, other than the Bills have no clue who should carry the ball. Rookie C.J. Spiller was a complete disappointment in his debut.

-Tebow got on the field against Jacksonville in a 24-17 loss, but did nothing, only totalling 2 yards on 2 carries. Meanwhile, Kyle Orton played quite well, and isn't relinquishing that job anytime soon.

-Atlanta and Pitssburgh got into a field goal battle, went into overtime, and the Steelers finally found the end zone on a 50 yard game winning run by Rashard Mendenhall. Meanwhile, the ageless Hines Ward continues to perform, going for 108 yards on 6 catches, helping ease Dennis Dixon at quarterback.

-Tampa Bay and Cleveland may have been one of the least watched games in recent memory. Are you really surprised? Oh yeah, the Bucs won 17-14 with some help by Peyton Hillis and his red zone fumbling.

-The Saints and Vikings may have been involved in the most disappointing game of the week. We all expected points, points and more points. We got 14-9. Either way, the Saints are defending champs, and already 1-0. A strong start for sure.

With 2 more games tonight yet to go between the Jets/Ravens and Chargers/Chiefs, we still have plenty of football left to feed our never ending desire of football.

I will leave with some quick predictions on the night. The Ravens win 20-13 with some help of Mark Sanchize and his errant passing. LaDanian Tomlinson leads the Jets in rushing on the night.

In the week 1 finale, the Chargers get off on the right foot with a 34-20 victory, with a nice debut from rookie Ryan Matthews.

Once the night is over with, Sunday cannot come soon enough again.

THE CHEAT SHEET- Week 2

2010-09-08T16:13:00.000-05:00

editors note: The Cheat Sheet is our weekly College Football preview

This actually means something for once... maybe....

One of the best weeks ever in College Football is upon us. Week 2 this year has so many great games, you will not be disappointed no matter what region of the country you live in. While all the games have great potential on paper, what they will mean later on in the season isn't so clear right now. While some games will have BCS implications, others will be great as measuring sticks of how good some conferences will be. All times listed are local kickoff.

NOTRE DAME/MICHIGAN 2:30 NBC

Rich Rodriguez's team came out like a champ against a good UConn team Saturday. Denard Robinson set the school record for quarterback rushing in a game. While Brian Kelly had a good win versus Purdue in his debut. I'm very apprehensive to make either team better than they seemed to be from last weekend. Notre Dame had only 25 minutes of possesion, and this is not abnormal from what Kelly did at Cincinatti; the Bearcats ranked at the very bottom of D-1 last year with barely 26 minutes of posession last season. What will make or break Michigan in this game is the defense led by Greg Robinson. They didn't give up a lot of points due to UConn turnovers last week, but you have to wonder how much longer this team can let that happen and keep points off the scoreboard. I think Michigan may have the better offense in this game (although Robinson will not be able to run as much), but Notre Dame should be able to put the ball in the end zone better than UConn was able to. Obviously ball control is much more important to Kelly than time of posession. If ND makes every touch count, look for them to win. This game will be MUCH more important to Rodriguez to win than Brian Kelly. If Robinson struggles and Michigan loses, the outcry for sitting Tate Forcier will go from 0 to light speed in no time flat. The pressure is on for Michigan to win, and winning in South Bend will go a very long way.

at the Horseshoe even. will Miami's crowd travel?

MIAMI/OHIO STATE 2:30 ESPN

First and foremost, the first thing this game ISN'T is a rematch of the NC game, the makeup for the Pass Interference game.. whatever you want to say. Since we're in 2010, you're going to have to move on a little bit for that. This game is the marquee game for Jacory Harris to show America how good everyone tells us he is. Outside of the ACC, this will be the toughest, loudest, and biggest croud he will ever face in his college career. Ohio St.'s defense wasn't really tested by Marshall last week, so they will be challenged in this game. I have told people how much better Terrell Pryor is, and this is the game he has to prove it. Miami's secondary is for the taking in this game, and Pryor looked sharp and tuned in to his receivers, especially Dane Sanzenbacher. Winning this game will go a long way with the voters this year, especially with Boise State breathing down Ohio State and Alabama's neck waiting for a slip-up.

they call you "Big game Bob", right?.... right?

FLORIDA STATE/OKLAHOMA 2:30 ABC National

Bob Stoops used to love games like this. Remember earlier in his career, where he would own games like this ESPECIALLY in Norman? This is the game where he needs to get that feeling back. Florida State looked pretty good last week versus Samford. Christian Ponder had one of his best games in his career, and the 35 points in the second quarter was just like the early 90's in Talahassee. The Sooners, on the other had, struggled in the second half to keep a lead versus Utah State. Defensively, OU lost composure on some plays with needless penalties and secondary breakdowns, while offensively Landry Jones was saved by a great performance by DeMarco Jones. Oklahoma has to make a very big jump in this game, but should be helped by this game being in Norman. Jimbo Fisher's team should be well equipped to come into Gaylord/Memorial and handle whatever Oklahoma can throw them, but I also expect the OU defense to play much better this week.

one of them knows where he is, the other just sharted his pants. GUESS.

PENN STATE/ALABAMA 7:00 ESPN

There will be no White-Out in Tuscaloosa this Saturday Night. Penn State comes into town on the "Joe-Paterno-retirement-that-will-never-happen" tour, and brings a freshman starting quarterback into Bryant-Denny. editors note.. have to wait a moment for Nick Saban to stop drooling.. ok, good to go! While ~~popluarity contest winner~~ Heisman trophy winner Mark Ingram will be missing his second straight game with a knee issue, Greg McElroy and Julio Jones will be more than enough to make up for it. While Stephfon Green and Evan Royster will need to rush JUST A BIT BETTER for Penn State to have any chance. I think Penn State can make this a closer game that most people think, however Alabama is too disciplined to let a freshman QB beat them.

this would worry most teams. Chip Kelly? "child, please."

OREGON/TENNESSEE 6:00 ESPN2

Both teams looked very good last week. Oregon blew New Mexico out of the water in Eugene, while Tennessee kept the money in-state by laying it to Tennessee-Martin (WAY TO SHARE IN THESE ECONOMIC TIMES.) I hope Matt Simms can throw the ball just as well, because Kenjon Barner is going to run all over Tennessee's defense. Tennessee and the SEC, with the way Ole Miss and LSU slacked it off last week, needs this victory more than Oregon at this point in the season. One thing that Tennessee will not be able to take advantage of is the home field advantage of Neyland Stadium. One place that is louder than Neyland is Autzen Stadium, where the Ducks play. Kelly's team will not be scared of the atmosphere because their team creates it so well and can deal with it very well.

Coaches who need to consult realtors to sell multi million dollar homes in these times:

Les Miles - the fact that you chose Jordan Jefferson AGAIN to lead this offense should be the reason you get fired, much less the fact that North Carolina trailed by 20 and threw into the end zone twice in the final minute for the win. This week, LSU goes against Vanderbilt and Robbie Caldwell, who has charm and is pleasing to the press, something Les isn't right now. A combined loss here and to Michigan, and the rumors will start again.

Houston Nutt - It's KARMA that Mississippi lost to JACKSONVILLE STATE YO. What is more shocking is how it happened, with a 3 score lead at halftime. It couldn't have happened to the second most over rated coach the country (unfortunately, #1 is occupied by that doosh in Fayetville, so Nutt can't even win his division there!). Ole Miss gets Tulane this weekend, and I will easily say that if Nutt can't blow the Green Wave out of the building by the third quarter (because whoopin em at half JUST DOESN'T F'ING CUT IT), he will be the first coach fired in 2010. If you're going to trust Masoli, then just give him the ball and milk how he's 'doing the right thing', lord knows your defense s**t the bed.

THIS WEEK'S CONSUMABLES:

It's gonna be a long day watching all this football. Make this twice Saturday. Once early, and then later as you need it:

Buffalo Wings

Recipe courtesy Alton Brown, 2007

Prep Time:15 minInactive Prep Time:1 hr Cook Time: 40 min

Ingredients

•12 whole chicken wings

•3 ounces unsalted butter

•1 small clove garlic, minced

•1/4 cup hot sauce

•1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Directions

Place a 6-quart saucepan with a steamer basket and 1-inch of water in the bottom, over high heat, cover and bring to a boil.

Remove the tips of the wings and discard or save for making stock. Using kitchen shears, or a knife, separate the wings at the joint. Place the wings into the steamer basket, cover, reduce the heat to medium and steam for 10 minutes. Remove the wings from the basket and carefully pat dry. Lay the wings out on a cooling rack set in a half sheet pan lined with paper towels and place in the refrigerator for 1 hour.

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

Replace the paper towels with parchment paper. Roast on the middle rack of the oven for 20 minutes. Turn the wings over and cook another 20 minutes or until meat is cooked through and the skin is golden brown.

While the chicken is roasting, melt the butter in a small bowl along with the garlic. Pour this along with hot sauce and salt into a bowl large enough to hold all of the chicken and stir to combine.

Remove the wings from the oven and transfer to the bowl and toss with the sauce. Serve warm.

As a beverage, use something that will start harsh, yet for some reason feel better later, much like tailgating at the Grove on a Saturday morning:

Long Island Iced Tea (LIT)

Recipe courtesy Ken Hall, Legends of Bartending

Ingredients

•1/2-ounce vodka (recommended: Skyy Vodka)

•1/2-ounce gin (recommended: Beefeater Gin)

•1/2-ounce light rum

•1/2-ounce Triple Sec (recommended: Hiram Walker Triple Sec)

•3 ounces sour mix (recommended: Finest Call Sour Mix)

•Ice

•Cola (recommended: Coca-Cola)

•Lemon wedge, for garnish

Directions

Combine first 5 ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a 14-ounce beverage glass. Top with soda and garnish with a lemon wedge. Serve with a tall straw

AHHHH... so nice, tasty. Enjoy responsibly of course, unless you're home and your team loses. In that case, mix every bottle in a garbage can and dunk your head in it.

CREEPY MASCOT OF THE WEEK: Lil Red

He can bounce on his head, he can convulse violently like a epileptic person at a disco. He scares children as well as old men. And, he is a movie star!

TONIGHT RALPHIE, YOU DINE IN HELL!!!

AND THE FINAL RANT OF THE WEEK:

Is it basketball season yet? Everyone in Lawrence hopes so, because the ole football team at the UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS ESQUIRE decided to give out lobotomy's to the entire team to rid themselves of the memory of Mark Mangino, and they must have dug into the brain too much because Kansas looked like a Russian prison team in LOSING TO SOUTH DAKOTA STATE. Kinda ironic here, because the head coach of Kansas, Turner Gill, happened to lose to a team coached by Craig Bohl. Both coaches were turned down by Nebraska for Bo Pelini (Bohl fired in 2002 from Nebraska, replaced as DC by Pelini, Gill turned down by Tom Osborne for Pelini as HC at the end of 2007). I have severe reservations with Gill being sucessful at Kansas. This team peaked with a BCS appearance after their best season with Mangino, and the school took that money and "improved" the football program with planting trees around the practice field. Memorial Stadium in Lawrence is below par with many of the high profile High School programs in Texas, much less Division 1 or Big 12 schools. It's a basketball school first, foremost, and you better not forget it. And next year, they (along with 8 other schools) will be Texas' BITCH in the Big 12-2/what money Beebe "promises" conference. Dont think that Mangino shouldn't have been ran out of KU; he deserved it with what he said to a lot of players. That being said, don't expect much of anything out of that program in a long time. With this ticket scandal forcing AD Lew Perkins into early retirement, there will be very little attention paid to anything but the moneymaker in Phog Allen Fieldhouse. KU has a history of running out good coaches because they want more attention for their football team (Glen Mason comes to mind).

Enjoy all the games this weekend, folks. I will be back Sunday with a review of the weekend.

Is it Leinart, or perhaps USC?

2010-09-04T19:28:00.000-05:00

With the imminent release of Matt Leinart by the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday, the question of whether or not he will be the future of the Cardinals and the cornerstone of the franchise at quarterback are finally laid to rest.

Following his Heisman Trophy winning junior season at Southern California in 2004, Leinart made the decision to return to the school and give a national title one more run, and in the process turned down the chance to undoubtedly be the #1 overall draft pick in the 2005 NFL draft, instead leaving the 49ers to choose Alex Smith. After one more season at USC, Leinart was once again a Heisman finalist, and would eventually finally be chosen in the draft, only this time, he fell to the Cardinals at 10th instead of going in the top 3 overall (I do not say 1st overall as the Texans and Saints had their quarterbacks at that time), and second amongst quarterbacks.

He was practically handed the keys to the franchise as the only QB on the roster with any real experience was a supposedly washed up Kurt Warner, and it was only a quarter of the way through the 2006 season that Leinart became the starter, and for a rookie, did ok with the job. He began 2007 as the starter as well, but early on in the season, suffered a season ending injury, giving Kurt Warner much of a season to gel with the offense, eventually leading him to win the starting quarterback job in 2008 after Leinart was again called the starter early on. We all know what happened with the Cardinals under Warner after that.

That leads us to 2010, Warner retired, one season standout Derek Anderson brought in to be the backup, and Leinart once again named the starter early on. Once again, he could not hold onto the job, and today, finally was released by the team, ending the roller coaster ride.

It is with this that makes us wonder if this was because of Leinart, or perhaps it goes deeper back to his days at USC, and was he ever really the QB so many thought he would be, or does USC just have that good of a system and surrounding players to lead us all to believe so.

Nowhere will we begin to discuss defensive players from USC, as the vast majority of them are speaking for themselves at the pro level. Same goes with offensive lineman. But we must wonder about the skill players on offense, and were most of them really ever that good?

In the time that Pete Carroll was head coach at USC before moving on to the Seattle Seahawks this season, this seemed so easy for the Trojans out west in the PAC-10. They easily dominated recruiting out west and even had a large footprint nationwide, bringing in numerous 4 and 5 star recruits and littering their roster with them. For the majority of the decade under Carroll, USC was a fixture as a top 10 ranked team. But the players he coached, Leinart included, was it because of some of their superior play, or was it because they were surrounded by teammates who were on the same level as them, far superior to much of their opposition, and padding their numbers?

The first big offensive draft pick under Carroll was that of Carson Palmer going first overall in 2003 to the Cincinnati Bengals, and while he has had a few years in his six year career that were pro bowl caliber, he has been far less than great to this point, especially when he gets compared to a fellow top pick in Peyton Manning, by whom all top draft QB's will always be compared. Only twice has Palmer posted a season rating over 90, and some will point to the fact that he suffered a severe knee injury in the 2006 playoffs, but the second best season of his career was that ensuing 2006 season.

Since Palmer, there have been several highly drafted offensive skill players, or those drafted in the first few rounds with high hopes, and to this point, none have yet to live up the the hype they left school with. Mike Williams was picked 10th overall in 2005 following a season out of football, and never even began to live up to that draft position.

Would the guy on the left
have been the better pick?

2006 brought about the selections of Leinart by Arizona, one spot ahead of Jay Cutler of Vanderbilt, who many analysts thought the Cardinals should have picked, and 2005 Heisman Trophy winning running back Reggie Bush by the Saints, second overall. Bush has never been able to handle being an every down running back, and has been much of a disappointment in his 4 years in the league, being best used as a 3rd down back and punt returner. Along with Leinart and Bush, The Tennessee Titans selected Bush's running mate LenDale White in the second round, who like Bush, was a standout with the Trojans, but as a pro, has battled weight problems and has been little more than a middle of the road running back, even since moving on to and being cut by Carroll as a Seahawk this off season.

Since the selections of Bush and Leinart, there has since only been one first round selection of an offensive skill player out of USC, that being Mark Sanchez at 6th overall in the 2009 draft, who gained increasing hype from the media after the end of the 2008 college season, even after Carroll publicly said he could use one more season of college ball. In his one season as a pro, he was far less than stellar, posting a QB rating of a mere 63.0, nothing to write home about.

Perhaps NFL teams are learning from mistakes of recent draft selections of USC offense skill players, as receivers who shined in college have slipped in drafts, and done little as a pro to this point. Dwayne Jarrett was a star following the departure of Williams, but slipped to the 2nd round in 2007, and has done very little to show he is even worth that. Jarrett's teammate in those years, Steve Smith was taken shortly after him by the Giants, and it took him three years as a pro to do much of anything, and has since begun to show he is worthy, but he was the far overlooked receiver coming out of that draft. Patrick Turner was a 3rd round selection of the Dolphins in 2009, and was just cut in the past two days, ending that tenure quickly.

It appears that perhaps it was not that Matt Leinart just got worse once he became a professional, it appears that he may never have had the ability to begin with that so many believed he had. He dropped to 10th in the 2006 draft for a reason, because his footwork had issues, and he lacked arm strength, problems that never were a problem while at USC when he had the very best lineman blocking for him and some of the best skill players to hand the ball off to and throw to.

Yes, Leinart did nothing but regress from his first year with Arizona to the point of his release, and enough of that was on him. He had a future hall of famer to learn from. He had star wide receivers to throw to in Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. It was up to him to put the work in to take the job, and he never did.

Perhaps when Pete Carroll chose to pass up on his own college running back in Joe McKnight in his first draft with the Seahawks he knew something. He knew that his players while at USC had talent, but knew they were over hyped because they were surrounded by some of the very best players in the college game, and were not quite the NFL star caliber that they were presumed to be.

Top 10 NFL Players who need to be cut

2010-09-01T18:10:00.002-05:00

This list is of 10 players, actually more, but some grouped together, who need to just flat out be cut by the NFL teams for whatever reason, they are annoying, a distraction, or it would just flat out be funny for us fans.

Lately, this is the best place
for Barber to be, the bench.

10. Marion Barber III RB Cowboys - No other running back in the league 'overruns' more than this guy, and rarely has much positive to show for it afterward, yet he still pops up after every 2 foot run bouncing around like a fool and pounding his chest like he did something good. He jumps up like that EVERY SINGLE TIME. Then to add to that, he finds ways to get hurt on open breakaway runs like against the Giants, and annoys fantasy owners nationwide because he gets carries, taking away from the far more talented Felix Jones, and for whatever reason, making the Cowboy coaching staff believe that he is somehow good, and should get carries, relegating the best back on the team, Tashard Choice to Wildcat and bench duty.

Time to go Marion, hear there may be a spot for you in Denver, they don't have enough under performing backs just yet.

He is finding new ways
to butcher the offense.

9. Jason Garrett OC Cowboys - This has nothing to do with Cowboy hating, as there may be a 3rd one later on this list, but most Cowboy fans would have to agree with them all. He has quite possibly the most talented offensive bunch in all of football (Yes Saints fans, more talented then you all), yet consistently finds new ways to do very little with it. After finding a needle in a haystack with Miles Austin last year, and kick starting their offense after Roy Williams forgot everything he once knew, they closed out the regular season with a dominating win over the Eagles, followed by a repeat a week later to start the playoffs. Then came to stellar output of 3, which is exactly how many points they managed to score against the Vikings in a 34-3 drubbing. THREE!!!

If that didn't seem bad enough to end the season, if this year's preseason is any indicator (which we know you can't take a lot from preseason, but still), it's going to be a very long season for the uber talented Cowboy offense. In 4 games, their first team offense has put together 1 TD, and were outscored 20-0 by the Texans first team offense a week ago. The line looks to have no interest in blocking, and Garrett's play calling still appears to be very bland and uninspiring.

Jet fans may not be seeing
this anytime soon again

8. Darrelle Revis CB Jets and Vincent Jackson WR Chargers - These two 'stud' players must be grouped together because they are both on this list for the same annoying reason. They both had extremely good 2009 seasons, breakout seasons for each, and now, heading into the 2010 season, both are still currently holding out wanting more money, AFTER ONE GOOD SEASON! Both have said many times they are willing to sit out the entire season if they need to, and show no signs of changing that stance. Yeah, forget your teams, it's all about you. Both are on teams who would arguably be on a collision course for the AFC Title game, yet both are being so damn selfish and demanding so much money that they are willing to not help.

Again, AFTER ONE GOOD SEASON!!!

While we're at it, let's just add Jackson's teammate Marcus McNeill to the list, although he has done it over a longer period of time.

Who else can this man punch?

7. LeGarrette Blount RB Titans - Strictly making this list not because of his talent, or as a player, but strictly because we all just want to see if he would punch someone in the front office after he is informed he is cut.

He clearly has talent to be a good running back in the NFL, but when he has already punched someone with the Titans, and he has never even played a down in the NFL regular season, he may never get an opportunity to show any of that talent. The man who will be remembered for punching the Boise State player and then QUICKLY back peddling, is now doing his best to be remembered the same way as a pro, even if in a short stint as one.

6. ANY Patriots running back (Or two) - Laurence Maroney, Fred Taylor, Sammy Morris, Kevin Faulk, Benjarvis Green-Ellis, it really doesn't matter, just cut one, maybe even two of them, it's so damn confusing up there in Patriot land. Even Tom Brady is probably thoroughly confused at who he may be turning it around handing it to.

Taylor seems like he's been around forever, still clearly has talent, but only if healthy. Maroney is a career underachiever, and has had numerous problems staying healthy, combined with his stints in Bellichik's doghouse. Who knows about Sammy Morris, who always seems to produce the most, yet suddenly loses carries. Faulk catches a ton of balls, can run, so what's the answer, give him fewer touches.

From a fantasy football perspective, it's a severe headache to deal with it each week and season.

CUT ONE ALREADY!!!

Think the Redskins regret this moment?

5. Albert Haynesworth DT Redskins - The man who may always best be remembered because of his stomp to the head of Andre Gurode while with the Titans, and is now the $100 million mistake in Washington. Signed prior to last season, stayed relatively quiet in 2009, but with the hiring of Mike Shanahan and head coach, and a change in the defensive philosophy, he immediately began throwing a fit, saying he wouldn't play, or wanted to be traded, whatever his whining was in the current week. Then when he decided he would participate and play, he failed multiple conditioning tests before finally figuring out how to pass one. Even Mike Golic demonstrated on ESPN how to pass the test, and he hasn't played IN YEARS.

Even Reggie couldn't get this right.

4. Reggie Bush RB Saints and Darren McFadden RB Raiders - 2 highly touted running backs coming out of college who seemingly can do anything. They can make dynamic plays, have incredible breakaway speed, and can catch and tun a short play into something huge. McFadden could even throw when called upon. Both were highly drafted, Bush 2nd to the Saints after the Texans shocked everyone by drafting Mario Williams #1 overall. McFadden 5th to the Raiders to accommodate JaMarcus Russell (How's that going now?) Neither has done much in the NFL except for try and make plays and consistently be stuff. Oh, and spend time injured, they both have mastered that skill.

The last time Roy Williams
showed any sign of being good

3. Roy E. Williams WR Cowboys - For obvious reasons, he needs to just flat out be cut, and move on. The Cowboys appear to be worried about the money that would be wasted after they signed him to a huge deal prior to the 2009 season, and cut T.O. in the process. All he's done since signing is drop balls, and more balls, and be completely overshadowed by breakout star Miles Austin. He has continued to tell everyone how he's a star and the #1 on the team, yet nobody else associated with the Cowboys knows that information.

It's ok Dallas, the Bengals showed how you can cut someone who you owe a lot to with Antonio Bryant (Who would have made this list). At least the Cowboys got some time from Williams, so there's a plus in there somewhere.

Leinart can't get past these days and
realize a team was handed to him.

2. Matt Leinart QB Cardinals - He may very well be traded in the coming days, or cut, with the longest shot of actually somehow remaining as an Arizona Cardinal come final cut downs. He had the job handed to him after the retirement of future hall of famer Kurt Warner, and has done nothing to show he deserves it. He appears to be in the process of losing it to one season standout Derek Anderson, a man who has done little positive since 2007.

Leinart has done very well at protecting the ball and completing passes in the preseason thus far, but when you have Larry Fitzgerald, Steve Breaston, Early Doucet at your disposal with Beanie Wells and Tim Hightower in the backfield, you need to make plays. At the rate he's going, he may complete 75% of his passes as a starter and average about 142 yards per game. That's not going to cut it in Arizona after the standard Warner set.

Hopefully, some team will give something in return for him.

SERIOUSLY?!?!?

1. Troy Polomalu S Steelers - This has nothing to do with him as a player. He is quite possibly the very best safety in all of the NFL. With him, the Steelers are an extremely dangerous defense. Without him, you get what you got last season while he was injured.

He is here because anybody who insures their hair for $1,000,000 deserves to be cut. Nothing else needs to really be said. It's your hair, it looks absolutely goofy, it's doesn't need to be insured. Time for someone to go Larry Johnson on him and tackle him by it.

Cliff Lee......SABOTAGE?!?!?!?

2010-09-01T10:24:00.001-05:00

Some want to believe this guy is purposely throwing games
for the Rangers.

If you're in an around the DFW area, and heck, even nationwide if you listen to Colin Cowherd's take on Cliff Lee, sabotage and mailing it in is becoming more and more common in recent weeks when people talk about Cliff Lee's performances with the Texas Rangers.

HOW DARE ANYBODY STRUGGLE IN A LONG 6 MONTH SEASON!!!!

Since joining the Rangers just prior to the all-star break this season, he is 2-5 with a 4.69 ERA, double his ERA from the first part of the season with the Mariners, and the mood quickly changed around DFW from pure jubilation for each one of his starts and complaining that he wasn't getting ANY run support to now going so far to calling the trade a complete mistake, and some of the extreme comments saying he is purposely trying to sabotage this team to make sure they do not win and get into the playoffs.

REALLY?!?!?!?

No, the guy has been far from a real shut down ace in his stint with the Rangers thus far. He has had some starts where it was true greatness, like the 13 strikeout 9 inning performance against the A's in late July (not a complete game as the team had to win in extra innings 3-1), and going at least 8 innings in his first 6 starts with the team, but in recent weeks over his last 4 starts, there has been some clear struggles, and now panic is quickly setting in with regards to Lee, some even saying he is not the ace of the staff and doesn't deserve the ball in game 1 of the playoffs, and even saying that he may not be worth the attempt to resign the guy.

Oh how "fans" can jump ship so quickly and bash a guy just like that. Most likely, these are the same "fans" who didn't even give the Rangers a second thought back in April, and constantly found something else to do than follow the Rangers prior to them winning and leading the division.

Let's take a LONG look back in time to oh....2009. He was acquired by Philadelphia just prior to the trade deadline last season, and was nothing short of spectacular in his first month with the team, posting an ERA of 2.00, and going 4-1, but his final start in August, things began to go south. He followed up the stellar first 4 starts with a September ERA of 5.59 and a 4.76 in one October start, going 2-3 and finishing at only 6-4 for the Phillies in the regular season. And this is in Philly, where the fans will bash EVERYONE, including Santa.

Anything look familiar??

Then the 2009 playoffs began, and he quickly quieted ALL skeptics and bashers. He won 4 of his 5 stars, including the only 2 wins the Phillies had in the World Series defeat at the hand of the Yankees, with a no decision in the other game, but the team won all 5 games that he started. By postseasons end, he posted a 4-0 record, with a 1.56 ERA and a 33-6 strikeout to walk total in over 40 innings pitched.

You think by then anyone was spending any time talking about what he did from end of August through the final day of the regular season? ABSOLUTELY NOT!!!!

But here we are in 2010 with the Texas Rangers, a team who has not been to the postseason in over a decade, and finally with a stranglehold on the AL West as we begin the final month of the season, and Cliff Lee is struggling, and some fans who believe they know all have nothing intelligent to say about Cliff Lee other than he is purposely trying to sabotage this team. What player is EVER going to purposely try and sabotage a team he is playing for when they are getting ready to play in the postseason and hopefully make a World Series run? Especially a player who does not yet have a ring himself.

Then again, many of these are the same fans who put far to much stock in the regular season results and want to call the Mavericks and Cowboys champs in the middle of the season after they win a few in a row and get on a roll, and much of the same has happened this year with the Rangers. It's all about the postseason. Once you get there, those regular season performances DO NOT MATTER!

The best in their respective sports know how to turn it back on when the games get bigger after a few regular season struggles. Come October, when Cliff Lee most likely turns everything back around and gives this team some great starts, each one of these fans who bash, Cowherd included, will completely change face, and want right back on the bandwagon that they are currently jumping off of.

THE CHEAT SHEET- Week 1

2010-09-01T00:52:00.000-05:00

Editors note.. The Cheat Sheet is our weekly look at the upcoming college football weekend.

THANK YOU (insert whomever you pray to here), THE SEASON IS FINALLY UPON US! There have been multiple polls, writeup's, blogs, tweets and blerg's about the season. Conferences have gotten stronger, weaker, stayed the same... and yet, it takes PLAYIN THE FREAKIN GAMES to finally make everyone happy. So, without further delay, here is the first Cheat Sheet for 2010.

VIEWERS GUIDE:

Five Stars: You aren't leaving the house for this one.Outside of your wife/kids bleeding to death, you're watching this game. Even then, if you can put duck tape on it for a while, even better.

Four Stars: It isn't life or death to watch this game, but it's a good reason to activate your Slingbox on your dish/cable box and your phone if you do get out of the house.

Three Stars: You could and should be mowing or cleaning the garage, but this game is on and it gives you a good reason to act like your back is hurting for a while till it's not close anymore.

Two Stars: You're out shopping with the wife, planning the wedding with the GF, or actually mowing the yard and cleaning the garage, and this is the game that makes you think "Oh yea, that's on. I should check my phone for the score."

One Star: Go reshingle your doghouse, clean your toilet with your tongue, tar your roof with your bare feet. That would hurt less than watching this trainwreck.

#15 Pittsburgh at Utah, Thursday at 8:30 Eastern, Versus

This is a very tough game for Dave Wannestet and a team that has a suspect offensive line. Kyle Whittingham has a young defense, but playing in Salt Lake City is not a very good starter for anyone, let alone a Big East team that doesn't seem to travel west of the Mississippi very well. Pitt loses this one, and all of a sudden they could be staring a trainwreck start in the face with Miami coming up very soon. This one is a 4-star game because it will tell us a lot about how each team will be standing in the middle of the season. You can't fake it against Utah.

Illinois vs. Missouri, 11:30 Central, FSN

The reason I'm putting this game on is because the loser of this game head coach wise will be COOKING on his chair Monday Morning. Ron Zook has maybe a fifth of the talent he ~~inherited~~ recruited at Florida. How he has made it through to 2010 in Champagne, I really don't know. However, Gary Pinkel is close behind with three DWI's and a Sexual Assult charge against starting Running Back and Captain Derrick Washington, all since the beginning of August. You take that and add the fact that Pinkel didn't really tear it up in 2009, and you have a game that will basically start the death knoll of either head coach if they lose. Zook because he can't beat anyone, Pinkel for not being able to control his team on or off the field. Three and a half stars on this one, it will be good but I think Mizzou should be able to handle it.

Conneticut vs. Michigan, 2:30 Central, ABC

Have you seen the new Michigan Stadium? It looks great. New suites, bigger than ever before... and Fielding Yost will be the only person in the house if RichRod loses this game not to light it on fire as they leave. UConn is not a bad team at all. Randy Edsall's team has won their last 3 road openers by an average of almost 2 touchdowns. Plus, Greg Robinson ~~has pictures of someone's wife and~~ is STILL running this defense. Four star game here. If Tate Forcier can't score, and Michigan gets behind... what kind of mood will overcome The Big House? Plus, with a date in South Bend in week 2... ooh, it could get ugly fast kids.

Washington vs BYU, 6:00 Central

This is the game Jake Locker needs to shine in to be really considered a Heisman candidate. And Steve Sarkasian and Washington will be catching BYU in a pretty busy week. Earlier Wednesday, the school announced they will go Independant in football, while joining the West Coast Conference in every other sport. Opening at LaVell Edwards Stadium isn't normally a good place. However, Sarkasian has improved Locker and Washington so well, it shoudn't matter. Three star game, because this game should kick start the campaign for a West Coast player not playing in LA to win the award.

#24 Oregon State vs #6 TCU (@ Cowboys Stadium, Arlington), 6:00 Central, ESPN

This game is actually disappointing to me through the eyes of TCU. Cowboys Stadium is expecting only 40,000 tickets to be sold. That's a very sad story to me considering that the game is only 20 minutes from Fort Worth. With the expansion of Amon-Carter Stadium, one would think that Gary Patterson and TCU could use this game to kickstart the hype for this season. Oregon State is going to be looking to be the show stealer, and Jacquizz Rodgers is the playmaker that could do it. 2.5 stars on this one. Only diehards will be watching intently, however this is a good game to know how good TCU will be. Expect Andy Dalton to be rock solid as normal.

#21 North Carolina vs. #18 LSU (@ Georgia Dome, Atlanta) 8:00 Eastern, ABC

Two potential good teams here, and two trainwrecks trying to not self-combust all over the field. Les Miles need Gary Crowton and Jordan Jefferson to step up and make the Tigers a good offensive team. Good luck against the Tar Heels. Butch Davis, on the other hand, has had the NCAA investingating a lot of things ending in "gate". Ask Richard Nixon how that ends up. Take the unders on this one. Jefferson will have issues, as well as T.J. Yates. However, the NC Defense will end up winning this one. LSU will play well, but Carolina will be just that much better. Four star game here, one to see how teams that have been touted as being relevant in their divisions/conference should do here.

#3 Boise State vs. #10 Virginia Tech (@ FedEx Field, Landover MD) Monday 8:00 Eastern, ESPN

Two very good teams that should and will win their conferences. This game is Five star as they get early in the year. Tyrod Taylor the playmaker vs. Kellen Moore the winner. Frank Beamer and special teams vs Chris Peterson's never lose gameplan. This is more the game that Boise has to win rather than Virgina Tech can't lose. VaTech can still lose this game and be very relevant in the title hunt. Boise, on the other hand, has to jump on Tech early, hard, and often to win and make an impression to get ranked high enough to be a BCS contender. I do think Boise can win, but it won't be enough to ~~keep the SEC homers from crying how overrated they are~~ make the national writers anywhere but on the West Coast notice.

Coaches who should keep the movers and realtors on speed dial:

Ralph Friedgen: Maryland opens at home against Navy. Better be convincing in your win, and don't ask Charlie Weis how to gameplan that one.
Mike Stoops: Ask Dan Hawkins what it's like to play at Toledo with a underacheiving bunch. Speaking of..
Dan Hawkins: Do they give intramural coaches extentions? Not ones that can't beat Colorado State.
Steve Spurrier: Yes, a SEC team should beat Southern Miss. Thats why you should be worried about Wesley Saunders' issues. This team can barely beat the scout team some weeks, and they need all the help they can get.

Food and Drink option for the weekend:

It's the first weekend of the season. You've been working out and prepping your liver and colon for this one. Therefore, you should take it easy on both of them for now. You need em the first week of November. So for food, we keep it simple with some sliders...

Texas Hold-Ums Mini Chipotle Beef Burgers with Warm Fire Roasted Garlic Ketchup

Ingredients
2 pounds ground sirloin
1 medium onion, peeled and cut in 1/2
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, eyeball it
2 chipotles in adobo and 2 tablespoons of adobo sauce
2 tablespoons grill seasoning, a couple of palm fulls, (recommended: Montreal Steak Seasoning by McCormick)
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus some for drizzling
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1/4 cup vinegar
1 (15-ounce) can crushed fire roasted tomatoes, about 2 cups
Salt and pepper
12 slices, 1/2-inch thick, brick-cut smoked Cheddar or sharp Cheddar, optional
12 small round rolls, split

Directions
Preheat grill pan to high.

Place the meat in a bowl. Cut the onion in half. Grate half the onion into the meat using the small grate on a
box grater. Chop and reserve the other half onion. Add Worcestershire, chipotles and sauce and grill seasoning
to burgers. Drizzle a little extra-virgin olive oil over the bowl and mix meat. Score the meat into 4
sections. Make 3 mini-burgers, each 3 inches wide, 1-inch thick, from each half-pound of meat.

Heat a small sauce pot over medium heat. Add extra-virgin olive oil and garlic. Cook garlic 2 to 3 minutes
then add sugar and vinegar, cook 2 minutes more and stir in tomatoes. Season sauce with salt and pepper and
allow it to reduce 5 to 6 minutes more.

Grill meat 2 to 3 minutes on each side and top with cheese, if you like.

Place burgers on buns and top with raw chopped onions and warm fire roasted ketchup and serve.

MMMMMM... burgers. Keep it simple for the beverage this week. Your favorite American ale (Bud Light, Miller Lite) or even soda pop.

The mascot you love to hate:

Pac 10 version this week. Stanford, you get first dibs!

If you looked like that, you'd have to be drunk too. Wait.. that's encouraged?

AND FINALLY..

I'm not really going to tell you that I feel bad for Jeremiah Masoli, Houston Nutt, and Ole Miss for the NCAA not clearing Masoli for this season because, well, he's not very bright and couldn't keep the gig at Oregon. However, I am going to take an issue with the timing of the announcement and decision by the NCAA. I get that they have been busy in the Carolina's this late summer, however there is no reason this decision should have taken till Tuesday of game week. Remember, this is the same body that decided to keep their hands off of confrerence realignment, even though they are the ones who legislate, govern, and oversee all schools, BCS be damned or not. Personally, I don't think Masoli will make it to next year (although, that's 60-40 depending on his draft stock in January). However, if the NCAA can jump like a little kid scared cause Nick Saban is pissed off because agents hang around Tuscaloosa all day hoping to "run into" Mark Ingram or someone else, then there is no reason that someone at the clearinghouse can get off their asses and make this decision earlier in the process, not 3 days before Mississippi kicks off their season.

GO ENJOY THE WEEK, AND WE WILL BE BACK TUESDAY WITH OUR REVIEW.

The Clipboard duty ACC preview

2010-08-26T15:08:00.000-05:00

There are a lot of ways you could look at the Atlantic Coast Conference for 2010. New coaches have come in (Jimbo Fisher at FSU, Mike London at Virginia), and several coaches that could be heading out (Ralph Friedgen at Maryland, Tom O'Brien at NC State). There are very good quarterbacks (Tyrod Taylor at VaTech, Jacory Harris at Miami), great runners (Joshua Nesbitt of GT), and fantastic receivers (Donovan Varner at Duke).

However, the conference will be decided by who can shut out distractions and just play the best football they possibly can. There is no question the conference is a basketball conference which just so happens to be good at football here and there. I do believe that there are a couple teams that could be great. Lets start with each division.

ATLANTIC DIVISION:

Florida State Seminoles: Last Year 7-6 (4-4)

Whether you believe that Bobby Bowden was fired, pushed, resigned, retired... it was time to go. The program he basically created had become third in the state of Florida. Usually, that still means you have the guns to compete. However, you wonder what restraints Bowden put on his coaches. Jimbo Fischer has already taken those restraints and thrown them away. Practices have quicker paces, there are new assistants that have brought in new systems, and there is new accountability. Does that mean this team will be better? Probably, however it may take a while to see it. Christian Ponder will have to be healthy from a faulty shoulder in order to match the numbers he had last year, which happened to lead the ACC in total offense. Offensively this team will be stacked at both the running back and wideouts. Jermaine Thomas will still be able to run like he did last year, and Bert Reed and Jarmon Fortson will replace the void from Rod Owens' graduation. Mark Stoops is in to run a defense that only has one way to go from being 108th last year. There is some depth questions at secondary, but there will be improvement.

Boston College Eagles: Last Year 8-5 (5-3)

They have the greatest story in college football this year with the return of LB Mark Herzlich from his battle with Ewing's Sarcoma (bone cancer), a very easy schedule, and a defense that doesn't let you run the ball and keeps you out of the end zone. So what's not to like? Well... there are the quarterback questions. Former Twins farmhand Dave Shinskie will get the first shot being the incumbent, but Justin Tuggle will be a option if Shinskie keeps throwing interceptions. Easier said than done with a very young wide receiver corp. The offense will go as long as Montel Harris stays healthy. The line is pretty solid, so I would think Harris can go for a 1300 yard season again. Defensively, this team must get sacks. The secondary was much better than numbers told you because this line, while able to stop any rushing attack, couldn't get a sack when they needed it. They get Virginia Tech and Notre Dame on back to back weeks at home, and if they get through there 4-0, they will have the confidence needed to be a top 10 team.

Clemson Tigers: Last year 9-5 (6-2)

Dabo Sweeney got the most out of his team last year, and it culminated with a division title. However, you lose C.J. Spiller and Jacoby Ford, and you have a very tough time replacing playmakers and leaders. I like Kyle Parker a lot, but the thought of him embracing being the BMOC will never be there with the lingering baseball playing time over his head. Plus, there are a lot of young players at wide receiver and tight end to replace. With no real option at running back yet, Parker will have to bear the load till playmakers emerge. That also puts a lot of pressure on this defense, which was alright last year but will have to be better in order for the Tigers to be winners. The line will have to anchor this team, with Jarvis Jenkins and Miguel Chavis having to be the cornerstones.

Wake Forest Demon Deacons: Last Year 5-7 (3-5)

Jim Grobe's team was one of if not the most unluckiest teams last year. There were countless fumbles, penalties, a muffed punt... well, if you're a fan, you know. To further the issue, this year's team will be one of the youngest ones in FBS. A combination of Skylar Jones and Brendan Cross will replace 4 year starter Riley Skinner at quarterback. Grobe will be hoping that Josh Adams returns to his ACC newcomer of the year status to help out at running back. If you see Jones at quarterback, don't be suprised to see Brandon Pendergrass at running back with him. It could easily be the fastest backfield duo in the conference. There are three great receivers in Marshall Williams, Devon Brown, and Chris Givens to throw to. With a iffy offensive line, look for a lot of perimiter plays and such to get the ball around. The defense will have to get better in the secondary to compete better, and with the trial-by-fire from last year, there is no doubt that there will be improvement.

North Carolina State Wolfpack: Last Year 5-7 (2-6)

The pressure to win in Raleigh is clearly on Tom O'Brien this year. While the schedule offers no favors, I do think, with the issues at Chapel Hill and finally being healthy, he will be alright come January. Russell Wilson is the real deal, and there is a stable of wideouts available starting with Jarvis Williams and Owen Spencer. With the line issues and the uncertainty at running back, this team will have to throw to win. This team must improve defensively from allowing 31 ppg last year. T.J Graham will easily be the premier return man in the ACC again, and Josh Czajkowski is as close to money as they come. For O'Brien to return in 2011, he better be.

Maryland Terrapins: Last Year 2-10 (1-7)

How Ralph Friedgen kept his job, I am still trying to figure out. Maybe he has pictures, blackmail.. I really don't know. This team will be much more experienced this season, however that won't make them necessarily better skill wise. The strength of the team is at linebacker, with Alex Wujack, Darin Drakeford, and Adrian Moten doing work back there. Offensively, wide receiver is and will be the deepest and most talented. Da'Rell Scott and Davin Meggett will be only as good as a experienced yet young line will let them be. Opening against Navy and West Virginia will not help Fridge keep his job.

COASTAL DIVISION

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets: Last Year 11-3 (7-1)

Nobody laughs at Paul Johnson now. Oh, they did when he thought he could bring the double wing option to the ACC. With their first outright conference title since the national title year of 1990, he has brought back life to the Ramblin Wreck. Offensively, they run till till you put 11 in the box, then run some more. Joshua Nesbitt will be the catylist once again, running and throwing for over 2700 yards last year. Expect Anthony Allen to continue the number Jonathan Dwyer came up with. Johnson hired Al Groh to run the defense that was okay, but nothing spectacular last year. He will change to a 3-4 this year, with the main issue replacing ACC defender of the year Derrick Morgan. Expect the secondary to be the strength of the defense. The game in Blacksburg Nov. 4th will be for the division title and possibly have national championship implications for the Yellow Jackets.

Virginia Tech Hokies: Last Year 10-3 (6-2)

Most teams wish they could compete for a conference and national championship while rebuilding. And yet, the Hokies seem to have not done a lot with what they have had available to them. Tyrod Taylor is back, and is looking to finally provide a consistant offense for Frank Beamer. Ryan Williams led the ACC in rushing last year, and Darren Evans returns from a torn ACL to make the attack even more potent. There is youth on defense, but when has Bud Foster ever had a bad unit, age be damned? The opening game against Boise State at FedEx Field will either make the national title hopes rise or crash to the ground. The conference schedule isn't very forgiving (games at GT, NC, Miami) but expect VaTech to be in the mix come December.

Miami Hurricanes: Last Year 9-4 (5-3)

The contract extention finally came to Randy Shannon after a 9 win season, and this team could be even better this season. This team is starting to look physically like the great Miami teams of the 2000's, fast and physical on both sides of the ball. Jacory Harris will still be the man that will lead the offense, throwing to proven playmakers Leonard Hankerson and LaRon Byrd. The defense is loaded in the front seven but shaky in the secondary where they were lit up like the Rockerfeller Christmas Tree during the spring game by everyone but Harris. Matt Bosher is probably the best all-around kicker east of the Mississippi. Games at Ohio State and Pittsburgh will tell soon if this team is going to be as good as last year's group was.

North Carolina Tar Heels: Last Year 8-5 (4-4)

Butch Davis loves to just stockpile talent. Pretty easy with John Blake on your staff to do that. That being said, the NCAA also has an interest in Blake, and that's never good for your program. The Heels are loaded on defense, which will be good with Marvin Austin and Robert Quinn anchoring this line (that's if the NCAA doesn't find anything to keep them out). Quan Sturvant and Bruce Carter are first round draft picks at linebacker. The reason that the Heels have not gone farther is because of an anemic (at best) offense. T.J. Yates is back at quarterback and tight end Zack Pianalto return, along with Ryan Houston who was a nice suprise after injuried depleted the running back spot. Opening against LSU, Georgia Tech, and at Rutgers will test this offense quickly. If there are issues after three games, expect Davis' seat to get very hot very quickly. Carolina doesn't like to lose, and with the NCAA wanting some answers about Blake and Austin, this could get out of hand for Butch easily.

Duke Blue Devils: Last Year 5-7 (3-5)

I really like what David Cutcliffe has done with Duke football. I feel like he wasn't appreciated at Ole Miss, and he is going to show what he can do at Durham. The facilities are getting a much needed facelift, and the team is really competitive for the first time in a while. Donovan Varner is a stud at receiver in a defensively stout division. Sean Renfree is a classic drop back passer who will have Varner and two veteran tight ends to use. However, this team MUST run better to be a threat (last year's rushing leader for Duke was Desmond Scott with 262 yards.). The defense will be young and inexperieced, as graduation and dismissals have thinned out all spots, especially on the line. I expect Duke to make a bowl game this year, and with Alabama coming to town Sept. 18 for a nationally televised game, the exposure will only help Cutcliffe get the Blue Devils even better in the future.

Virginia Cavaliers: Last Year 3-9 (2-6)

Mike London comes into Virginia with a FCS title at Richmond. He knows how to win, but with what Al Groh left him, lets hope he has patience too. This is the third offensive system in as many years in Charlottesville, and the defense will go back to a 4-3. There will be some passing done, as Marc Verica will have a pretty deep wideout crew to throw it to. The defense will not be great, but will get better as players get acclimated to new spots in a new scheme. Without a lot of time to save the recruiting class (only 17 signed, what a concept Houston Nutt!), there will be some lean times for Virginia. They will be better next year, and London has to just make sure they stay focused on the process of becoming a good team.

PREDICTIONS:

Atlantic: Florida State

Coastal: Georgia Tech

Conference Winner: Georgia Tech

The Wreck will be the champion in a very competitive yet rebuilding themed conference. I think Virginia Tech is too green on defense, and Miami is not good enough in the secondary to turn the corner this year. Florida State will have a great rennisance with Jimbo Fisher running the show. However, Paul Johnson has too much discipline in his offense and program to just fold under pressure.

Player of the year: Joshua Nesbitt, Georgia Tech

Coach of the year: Jimbo Fischer, Florida State

The Clipboard Big East Preview

2010-08-25T02:39:00.001-05:00

For a conference that was very good about three years ago, the Big East has fallen on hard times football-wise. From RichRod's failure to take West Virginia to powerhouse status, to Cincinatti going belly-up after Brian Kelly walked away from a undefeated team going to the Sugar Bowl, there has been more wimper than bang at the end of the year. Without a real dominant team this year, I can't really see anyone in this league doing much of anything unless you go on a game-by-game basis.

Contenders:

Connecticut Huskies: Last year 8-5 (3-4)

There was a lot of heartache last year with this team. Not only was there a lot of close games that didn't go Randy Edsall's way, the October death of Jasper Howard made a lot of things come into perspective for such a young team. However, the Huskies stayed the course and finished with a very respectable 8 win season. Virtually every starter comes back, starting with Zack Fraser leading an offense that wasn't bad at all (31.2 ppg, 27th overall in FBS). However, this team will live and die with the secondary, which was a little green last year. Maturity and Edsall's leadership will help this team contend, along with a pretty favorable schedule. They do open at Michigan, and with how everyone in Ann Arbor walking on eggshells to see RichRod finally open with a win, the victory is their's for the taking.

Cincinatii Bearcats: Last year 12-1 (7-0)

Oh, Brian Kelly.. what I would have given to see you go against Florida in the Sugar Bowl. But alas, you had to run to $outh Bend where you needed to get started. There will be two constants from 2009 that will stay in Cincinatti. That Zack Collaros will be just as good if not better than he was while replacing a injured Tony Pike, and how the defense has little to zero depth. Butch Davis will be going to a 3-4, but it won't matter if they are still bad in the secondary. Expect to play the overs a lot from this team, especially when they play in Norman.

Pittsburgh Panthers: Last year 10-3 (5-2)

Remember a couple of years ago when we thought Dave Wannestet was going to go the way of Bill Callahan and flame out as another guy who should stay in the NFL? He's actually done very well now, but there is a consensus that he just can't take the next step. Tino Sunseri steps in to replace much maligned Bill Stull. Expect this defense to be just as good as it was last year, which will be needed because this offense will struggle with interior line issues. Yes, they have Dion Lewis. But it won't matter behind this line. It also doesn't help to start your season at Utah either.

West Virginia Mountaineers: Last year 9-4 (5-2)

Dear Bill Stewart, the natives are restless! They won't care if Geno Smith is a Sophomore, they want to win. Noel Devine is going to have to make or break you, because I have no clue who you expect to throw it to. Defensively, you're going to have to be as good as you think you will be. While I think you will be better than people think, your best way to prove it is going to Death Valley Sept. 25th.

Pretenders:

South Florida Bulls: Last Year 8-5 (3-4)

Jim Leavitt built a lot of this program. Unfortuanely, temper tantrum and beating kids got him a infinite day pass away. I'm not a Skip Holtz fan (i'm not a Holtz fan period, but that's another show), but it's too hard to overlook what they lost on defense. Pierre-Paul, Selvie, and Allen? Gone. Matt Grothe? Gone. B.J. Daniels does have some experience coming back, and they will be closer than people think, but opening with Stony Brook, followed by going to the Swamp will not treat this team well. However, the rest of the out of conference schedule will get them ready for the meat of the schedule.

Syracuse Orangemen: Last Year 4-8 (1-6)

Doug Marone, damnit, you are trying hard! You will probably be 3-1 going into conference play, but not having Delone Carter will hurt you when the weather gets cold and you have to move out of the toasty air of the CarrierDome. Ryan Nassib is a step up from a unwanted Duke point guard, but I can't see you being too much better this year. The max for this team would just to make a bowl game, which would be better than anything Greg Robinson ever did for you.

Louisville Cardinals: Last Year 4-8 (1-6)

Charlie Strong is a great hire for the other team in Kentucky. He is a great offensive mind who can make anything happen.. and even he will have his hands and a dumptruck full trying to get this team over 20 ppg. Adam Froman will get the keys to the Edsel first, but I have a feeling there will be much to see from Justin Burke. With a new offensive scheme and two good runners in Jeremy Wright and Victor Anderson, they will be better, even if the defense can't stop anyone (which they wont).

Rutgers Scarlet Knights: Last Year 9-4 (3-4)

Greg Schiano is a good coach, but it also just seems like he's waiting for JoePa to finally retire from Penn State so he can get out of Jersey. This team came out like champs but fizzled badly last year, and it doesn't help that three offensive line starters need to be replaced. If they can show anything of a running game, Tom Savage will do his thing and be able to move this offense. The schedule helps early (recurring theme with this conference, no?), but when all your tough conference games are on the road, you better be able to move the line of scrimmage on both sides. I don't think they will be able to.

BT'S CONFERENCE WINNER: West Virginia

The differnce that sets WVU over UConn and Pittsburgh is the defense. Bill Stewart has a hot seat in Morgantown (hotter than it should be, because RichRod is coming back?)and will win at Pittsburgh on Nov 26th for the title. Experience isn't a bad thing, and West Virginia has it in the right places for this season.

Player of the Year: Noel Devine

Coach of the Year: Doug Marone (For getting Syracuse to a bowl game? Easy!

Big Ten Preview: Can Ohio State Win the National Championship and Do You Know John Clay?

2010-08-20T14:04:00.002-05:00

College football is just around the corner and while the people in the South, especially the Southeast, believe that they are “football country” but the North is where real football is played. The cold early Saturday mornings will be good watching for football purists again this year with a few schools looking to make a run at Pasadena and one with legitimate national championship dreams.

National Championship Material?
Ohio State University
The Ohio State Buckeyes look to follow the University of Texas 2004-2006 team’s footsteps by using a Rose Bowl win over Oregon as a launching pad to the national championship.

The Buckeyes are led on offense by their ultra-athletic quarterback Tyrelle Pryor and will go as far as he takes them. Pryor is not a shoe in to be great in 2010 though. The QB has been inconsistent at best while in Columbus and part of that is the seeming reluctance of Jim Tressel to truly turn the potential playmaker loose.

The running game will again be the heart and soul of this team. For all of Pryor’s ability he a legit running threat and their offense is built to move the ball five yards at a time. The skill at receiver is pretty low for one of the top five programs in the country reaffirming my belief that the running game will be featured. Pryor can sling it all over the yard but it takes two to complete a pass and they do not have the proven horses to match up with elite secondaries.

If Jim Tressel is the coach you know their team is going to be tough on defense. There is no lack of playmakers on defense and the unit will suffocate opposing attacks. The truth is that outside there is no offense in the Big Ten that matches the Buckeye defense well. Ohio State will be in every game because of this unit.

With a very manageable schedule and more talent than their conference counterparts, Ohio State are looking a possible undefeated regular season. They will get tested by Penn State, Iowa, Michigan, Miami, and Wisconsin but are favorites in every match. If they play to their potential and stick to “Tressel ball” we could see them in Glendale in January of 2011.

Big Games: 9/11 v. Miami (FL), 10/16 at Wisconsin, 11/13 v. Penn State, 11/20 at Iowa, 11/23 v. Michigan

Prediction: Conference Champions, 11-1 with a loss to Iowa

Bowl Game: Rose Bowl

The Contenders
University of Wisconsin
Bret Bielema’s group is not fancy. They are the epitome of Big Ten football. This year will not be any different. They pound the ball for sixty minutes on both sides and I love it! John Clay is the best running back for Wisconsin since Ron Dayne and will receive a similar workload. Running behind an experienced and tough offensive line means that Big Ten defenses better come to play physical. This offense is tailor made for the cold northern winters of the Big Ten and if you love the running game John Clay is a must see. The defense is not flashy but is solid. They wrap up and make tackles. In an offensively challenged Big Ten that is key.

Big Games: 10/16 v. Ohio State, 10/23 at Iowa

Prediction: 11-1 with a loss to Ohio State

Bowl Game: Fiesta Bowl

University of Iowa
Like Ohio State, the Hawkeyes are looking to use a BCS bowl victory as a launching pad for success this season. A team that seemed to play with fire on a weekly basis and survived injury to quarterback Ricky Stanzi somehow made it to the Orange Bowl and beat Georgia Tech. It seems that 2009-2010 was the return of Kirk Ferentz after a few years of sub-par performances.

Their offense is led by Stanzi who is a year older and wiser as a returning starter and senior. Stanzi has three of his top five receivers coming back with him behind an experienced offensive line. For all their experience the Hawkeyes still lack true playmakers but do enough on offense to get the job done. Another year together will not hurt.

Tyler Stash and Jeff Tarpinian lead an experienced a ball hawking defense back. Truth be told, the defense is the reason for Iowa’s success last year. The group is returning upper-classmen at every position and should be able to create the type of play that made the Hawkeyes an 11 win team last year.

Big Games: 10/2 v. Penn State, 10/23 v. Wisconsin, 11/20 v. Ohio State

Prediction: 10-2, losses to Wisconsin and Penn State

Bowl Game: Capitol One Bowl

The Rest
Penn State returns RB Evan Royster but loses a lot with the graduation of QB Daryl Clark. For all the offensive and defensive talent this is a team that will need a quarterback to step up before we know how good they will be, especially in conference play. Sophomore Kevin Newsome is the leader to replace Clark and the kid better be ready to fulfill the expectations in Happy Valley. The defense is good and will keep them in most games behind a strong secondary. Alabama in week two will be tough.

Prediction: 8-4

Michigan State missed a winning season in 2009-2010 with a loss in the Alamo Bowl to Texas Tech. The returns of Kirk Cousins (QB), Greg Jones (OLB), and Eric Gordon (OLB) have me excited about this team making progress. Mike Dantonio is a very good coach and I think he has his team ready to take a step forward. I am interested to see how Keith Nichol transitions from QB to WR this year.

Prediction: 7-5

Michigan is in the “rest” category again. The once storied program is getting more publicity for Rich Rodriquez’ inability to read a clock than their athletes or potential play on the field. Jonas Mouton and Troy Woolfork are good young talents on defense but the loss of Brandon Graham will hurt. Incumbent QB Tate Forcier returns but I wonder how long before Denard Robinson gets the keys to the spread option full-time? I think it is soon if the season starts slow. Is this going to be another bad season in Ann Arbor? If so, Michigan alumni Jim Harbaugh and Les Miles may want to keep their cell phone handy.

Prediction: 7-5

Purdue got an infusion of talent at the quarterback position with Robert Marve transferring from Miami (FL). Purdue returns most of its skill position talent on an offense that is designed to score in bunches. Marve’s ability to pick up the offense and play well will have a huge effect on a team that is replacing three starters on the offensive line and five total on defense. Depending on Marve’s play this team could surprise and win eight games this year.

Prediction: 6-6

Minnesota is at a crossroads in 2010. Coach Tim Brewster as certainly improved the recruiting profile of the program and the new stadium is nice, although it may be the coldest in the NCAA, but that has not translated to on the field success. The Golden Gophers return nine starters on offense, including quarterback Adam Weber and his talented back up Marques Gray. Weber was up and down last year and without star wideout Eric Decker there is a chance Brewster moves the Gophers to a more run based attack and inserts Gray full time. While the Gophers return experience on offense the defense loses nine starters from a sub-par group. It may be another cold long year in Minneapolis but Brewster’s seat may get hotter and hotter as the season progresses.

Prediction: 5-7

Northwestern lost eight guys on defense and twelve on offense from an 8-5 team. Dan Persa will take over at quarterback in an up-tempo offense. Truthfully there is not much to like about this team but their offense always keeps them in games and wacky things seem to happen when they are involved.

Prediction: 5-6

Indiana’s program failed to build off their success in 2008 in the 2009 season. 2010 looks to be another disappointment. The program returns eight starters on offense but only four on defense. Unless success comes with the youth movement it will be another year of looking forward to basketball season. The two bright spots for the Hoosiers are returning starters Ben Chappel (QB) and Darius Willis (HB). Both players could have good seasons.

Prediction: 4-8

Illinois is a rare case of a team losing their four year starting quarterback and having good odds of being better for it. For all his talent, Juice Williams never got close to fulfilling his potential. With no Arrelious Benn and Jon Asamoh the offense for the Fighting Illini is a mystery. Jared Fayson is a talent but there is little else to get excited about in what could be Zook’s final season.

Prediction: 3-9

Game of the Year: 10/16 Ohio State at Wisconsin
Offensive Player of the Year: John Clay, RB, Wisconsin
Defensive Player of the Year: Tie: Jonas Mouton, LB, Michigan/Greg Jones, LB, Michigan State
Freshman of the Year: Jamaal Berry, RB, Ohio State
Coaches that will be fired: Rich Rodriquez, Michigan; Tim Brewster, Minnesota; Ron Zook, Illinois

To the Surprise of Nobody, Brett Favre Returns, AGAIN

2010-08-17T22:55:00.000-05:00

You knew he could not walk away from the game with this look
on his face after the NFC Title game loss to the Saints.

In case somehow you have avoided all things sports in the past month, Brett Favre did some of his usual antics, only this time not going quite so far as if to actually announce an actual retirement, yet still indicating multiple times that he would not 100% for sure be playing in the September 9th opener in New Orleans, a rematch of last season's NFC Title Game, or for that matter, anytime during the 2010 season.

But did anybody really think there was any way he wouldn't be there donning his purple get-up opposite Drew Brees to get the season going?

This guy sure did not, nor do I imagine many others anywhere really had any doubts. Not after the season he had last year. Not after the heartbreaking way it ended. And surely not with the way the schedule begins this season.

But is Brett Favre really to blame at all for this becoming yet another media spectacle, even if it did not even begin to compare to what the sporting world went through in the summer of '09, or is it really the media themselves?

It was almost instantaneous after the loss in New Orleans in January that the media began to talk about whether or not he would return. We would get the occasional break over the next few months when the LeBron talk would heat up, along with the 'where would Tebow end up saga', but throughout it all, any football talk in May and June had to have some mention of whether or not Favre may play in 2010.

As soon as LeBron made his 'DECISION', you almost had to expect that ESPN was doing all they could to get Favre to make his own 'Decision', although ESPN stands by their notion that they had nothing to do with the LeBron ordeal, nor did they benefit from it. But as much as I like ESPN as a network, I fully realize just how much they can beat a story into the ground, and even this summer's Favre saga was no different.

A simple text message from Favre a few weeks back blew up to the fact that he was retiring, and maybe he did actually say to a few friends/teammates that he was stepping away during a down moment because of his ankle, but he stood by his saying that is his ankle was healthy, he would play, and now we have come to realize that was in fact the case.

Viking teammates Steve Hutchinson, Jared Allen and Ryan Longwell flew down to Mississippi, presumably to find out what his decision would be, and maybe to do a little coaxing at the same time, and if so, that is fine. Tedy Bruschi of ESPN says he has lost all respect if that is the case, but WHY? They know full well just who Favre is, and what he means to the team, and in no way do I think that disrespects the other QB's on the team, they just know Favre is a real legend of the game. It was also August 17th, 1 day short of one full year of his return last year, time to get things rolling or move along if he were not going to return.

But now that he is back, the anticipation for the new football season can resume, and the anticipation of one of the best opening night NFL games in recent memory. We do not have to endure another New York/Washington bore fest, or another Pittsburgh/Tennessee defensive battle to get things started. We can sit back and watch the fireworks that the 2 high powered offenses of the Saints and Vikings are sure to provide, and get the season rolling along right away.

We can also rest assured in the world of fantasy football that Favre will indeed be there, and Sidney Rice is not some extremely risky pick in the early rounds as a receiver. But more on all the fantasy talk later.

For the first time in 4 years, this blogger is finally happy that Favre is not leaving the game.

It's time to get ready for football.

2010-07-30T00:22:00.003-05:00

Here at Clipboard Duty, we have been a little slow through the summer. Basically, we have been waiting for football season to start. The time has come for our writers to put their necks out and tell you what will, won't, and may happen for this season.

We will have several writers, both Clipboard writers and guests, preview the NCAA and NFL season's coming up. And during the season, yours truly will be doing a weekly NCAA post, while Tyson (I believe) will be doing his NFL thing.

We will do our best every week for you folks that read us... all.. 18 of you. If you have something to contribute, do not be afraid to share what you feel.

Lebron James did nothing wrong and owes the City of Cleveland nothing!

2010-07-09T08:54:00.003-05:00

Mere seconds after Lebron James uttered the line, "This fall, man this is very tough, um, this fall I'm going to take my talents to South Beach and join the Miami Heat," The city of Cleveland busted out in complete shock and anger, feeling as though they were just completely betrayed by James as he made his "Decision" on a 1-hour ESPN special, or spectacle. It is clear that those in Cleveland, and even many around the country feel as though James owed the Cavaliers something.

Why and what would James owe to the Cavs and the city of Cleveland? Did he somehow owe it to them to stay there and resign, and continue to play with lesser talent surrounding him? Did he somehow owe it to them to stick it out with a team that for 2 straight years had the best regular season record, but in both instances did not advance to the NBA Finals? And did he somehow screw over Cleveland with this decision to join the Heat, leaving them hanging with no real contingency plan?

The answer to all of that is a resounding ABSOLUTELY NOT!!!!

James owed the city and the franchise (and now especially majority owner Dan Gilbert after this childish rant) nothing at this point. He did not owe them to stay with the team and continue to try and win a championship there. He had earned himself the right to decide the best place for himself to play, and he took that right. He gave Cleveland 7 good years of his life and career, and turned a sad franchise around and put them back on the map. If anything, the Cavs and Gilbert owed him more to give him a better chance to win a championship, and they failed to deliver.

After a disappointing end to a 2008-09 season where James and the Cavs were ousted earlier than expected by the Magic, the Cavs "tried" to give James some better surroundings, and I emphasize the word tried because they brought in a seemingly 78 year old Shaquille O'Neal, who at this point, is little more than a cutout of his former self, still a huge body in the middle, but nowhere near the dominant force he was when winning titles with the Lakers, or even near the level when he won in 2006 with Dwyane Wade and the Heat. Mid-season, they brought in Antawn Jamison, who throughout his career has been little more than a highlight reel, never showing any signs of being a winner or a true cog to a championship team. Let's not all get to excited at once.

Fact is James is arguably the best player in the league, and in this blogger's mind, far and away the best player, not taking anything away from Kobe, and did much more than he owed by seriously considering the Cavs offer to return, but he chose a situation that he feels is best for him, sentiments felt by many others, playing alongside Wade and Chris Bosh in Miami, and since when is it wrong for a player to do what's right for him?

Reporters, Columnists, fans and the like in and around Cleveland feel as though he slapped them in the face, and in a small way he did, but only because this was made out to be a big spectacle with the ESPN special, but don't for a second think that ESPN did not want every last part of that as well. Many feel like James is taking the cheap road here, and bailing on his situation and unfinished business, and comparing him to players like Kobe and Dirk, who stuck with their teams when in similar situations.

Well let's take a quick look at that. Kobe had already won 3 titles by the time his chance to go elsewhere had come up a few years back, but he decided to take the money in L.A., continue to play for one of the best coaches ever, and still, did not win again until the Lakers made some key moves, most notably bringing in a superstar big man in his prime in Pau Gasol, and allowing some of the other guys to continue to develop until they won again in 2009. Dirk Nowitzki just in the past few days decided to take the Mavericks offer and remain in Dallas, but until his team brings in another true star to put alongside him, the Mavs will most likely continue to be just like the Cavs with Lebron, great regular seasons, disappointing postseason.

In both cases, they both entertained other offers, and if they were both so loyal to their teams as some want to make it out to seem, then they would have never gotten to that point and signed extensions well before then, but just like James, they explored other opportunities to see if there was anything better. In reality, they are no different than James. They all took the situation they felt was best for them.

James is no different than any other free agent who went to another team, other than the fact that he was by far the most coveted free agent in sports history, but this is becoming a bigger story because people want to make him out to be a bad guy for this.

It seems as though so many feel very threatened by this team comprised of 3 superstars, 2 of which are arguably top 5 in the league, with Bosh not far behind, and are acting out from that by trying to fault James for this. Faulting James for making a decision he felt was right for him, and leaving a situation in Cleveland where the front office frankly was not doing enough to help him win.

He has said all along his biggest thing is winning, and it is now more clear than ever that that is his main focus. He took less money than what he could have gotten in Cleveland, and after 7 years of trying to win there and giving a titles a couple of decent runs, he is going to try and win a title elsewhere, and most likely he will.

Cleveland had their chance with him, and had their chance to put the rest of the pieces of the puzzle together to bring that titles to their city, and failed to do just that.

Gilbert and the Cavs have absolutely nobody but themselves to blame for this. Of course, they will continue to blame James and live with envy.