howtosportsblog

El Clasico del Rey

2012-01-23T09:27:00.000-08:00

After a great first match last Wednesday, el clasico gets set for the second leg this Wednesday and Ronaldo and Real Madrid visit Messi and the rest of the Barcelona squad at Camp Nou. The first game was a good one, but I felt was better played by Barcelona. The first goal, scored by Ronaldo, was a shot inside the box that just went between the goalpost and the goalie. After that, Madrid was playing really conservative and it cost them in the end. You had that corner kick to Puyol for the game-tying match, and afterwards some crafty footwork by Messi and Abidal to take the lead and the goal which would prove to be the game winner. It was a hard fought victory for Barcelona, especially because it was an away game and it was el clasico, the most intense rivalry in La Liga. This was a very physical game, then there was that very cheap move by Pepe to step on Messi's hand while he was on the ground, which proves that this is a no hold barred type of game. Now Real Madrid must fight in Barca territory needing to win 2-0 (counting the aggregate) to advance into the semi finals. Based on their play from last game, I think Barcelona gets it done at home and moves forward in the Copa del Rey. Real Madrid did not get enough good shots in the last game, and Barcelona seemed to have a better fast break team. I'm taking Barcelona. They're at home, they're ahead already on the 2-1 aggregate, and they seem to be the better team right now. As to who goes on into the semi-final in this tournament, we'll have to wait and see this Wednesday, 4pm EST, live from Camp Nou. Let's go Barca, mes que un club!

It's a Fake!

2012-01-16T21:20:00.000-08:00

Now that we're a few games into the NBA season, we've had some real nice surprises both good and bad. We've got pretenders and contender's, so let's take a look. My team, the Knicks, we're pretty much being given the Atlantic Crown, but some poor early play has led to bad losses, I mean the Bobcats, really!? Starting with the Atlantic, the 76ers are looking like a great young team that could be the next Thunder, with a mix of homegrown talent and hustle play, they're looking like legit contenders. The Knicks, despite being in second place right now, should really be higher. They have a bunch of stars on their team and a pretty decent bench, but each game it seems we win with a tight margin or get blown out. Chandler is doing his part, but it seems like if Melo doesn't score 40 a game, they stand no chance. Boston is an aging team, and was something that was expected a long time coming. Allen still drains the 3's and Rondo is a great PG, but this team doesn't dominate as much as it used to. Toronto and New Jersey are just horrible. There's no talent in Toronto and New Jersey needs someone that can collaborate with Deron. Until next year with the big move to Brooklyn, NJ will decide nothing in the Atlantic. The Central will definetaly be won by the team I have picked for this year's NBA Champions, the Chicago Bulls. Great talent on the starting 5 as well as off the bench. And with an easy conference, it should be a first or second seed for the Bulls. Indiana has been a surprise, especially with wins over Boston and Atlanta. If they keep it up, they'll be a presence in the playoffs. The rest of that division is a joke really. The Cavs are a .500 team that has young talent but lacks that ~~Lebron~~ je ne sai pas. Milwaukee just has Jennings, end of story. And the Pistons seem to be doing worse and worse, so hopefully the lottery will cheer em up. Arguably the strongest division in the league is the Southeast, which has Orlando, Miami, and Atlanta, which are all playoff bound teams, along with Charlotte and the lowly Wizards. Orlando, it's a bit tricky to predict how they'll do, considering we don't know if Howard will be traded in the next 5 minutes or not. Miami, the Big 3, what more can you say. I hope they suck, but we know they have that co-MVP callibur team in Lebron and Wade, Bosh can come too. Atlanta is looking like it will make a huge run in the playoffs in my opinion. Charlotte has proven to be a joke, and the Wizards are probably getting the number one pick. So that's the East.

In the West, you have high scoring talent and LOB City. The Northwest really only has two teams competing, including statistically the best team right now in Oklahoma City. Durant, Westbrook, Ibaka is a terrible tandem and that bench is nasty. With great defense and explosive offense, especially with that win over the Mavs earlier, this team will do damage in the playoffs. Utah is a contender, but doesn't have a strong team honestly, it's the weak division that gives it all it's wins. Portland is just hanging around, while Denver and Minnesota have wasted talent. Especially K-Love, who is averaging a ridiculous double double for the season. The Pacific has both good and bad. LOB CITY LOB CITY LOB CITY. It's LA, and it actually exciting on both sides. CP3 and Griffin make a great team, while Kobe seems to be scoring 40 every game lately. Hats of to DeAndre Jordan, who's really made the Clippers a competitive team. Phoenix is a declining team with the great and powerful Steve Nash, who hopefully is traded to a contender. Golden State had high scoring talent, but the record doesn't show for it. I really thought they would have had a better season. Let's not even talk about the Kings. It is le embarassing! The southwest is also a decent division. San Antonio is off to a hot start and I think they can take the division. Despite Manu out for a while, they still seem to keep winning. Dallas is another aging team, and although they have championship calibur players, I don't expect much from them this season. Then again, no one did last year. Memphis, Houston and New Orleans round out the bottom 3. All three teams currently have sub .500 records, and I expect it to stay that way. Bulls, Heat, Clippers, Thunder. These are teams that go above and beyond. Knicks, Lakers, Miami, step ya game up! and Wizards, Suns, Nets, better luck next year. Suck for Luck!

Messi Messi Messi

2012-01-12T13:42:00.000-08:00

The non conventional trifecta of soccer. It wasn't a hat-trick, and it wasn't 3 World Cup appearances. On Monday, Barcelona F Lionel Messi received the FIFA Ballon D'Or, an award which recognizes the best soccer player in the last year. Beating out rival Cristiano Ronaldo and teammate Xavi Hernandez, Messi won his third award in as many years, a first in the presentation of the prestigious award. This 3rd award now puts him in talks of joining greats like Maradona, Pele, Zidane and Ronaldo. Messi scored 61 goals in 71 appearances in 2011, with goals coming in Barcelona or while sporting his native colors of blue and white for Argentina. And while he isn't my favorite player (see, Chicharito Hernandez), I really like Messi. He's just enjoying the game and his time as king. You hardly see him frustrated or calling out teammates. It's like he's a little kid playing his favorite sport. He is the face of the sport right now, yet you don't see him selling out or demanding more money. Not only is he a crowd favorite, but a player favorite as well. He's won multiple championships during his time with Barcelona, all that's left is the World Cup. If and when that happens, I think he'll be a soccer legend for the ages. As for now, he's a tremendous talent on a superior team, and he shows no signs of slowing down. And to Cristiano Ronaldo....

Game of the Century II

2012-01-09T09:06:00.000-08:00

Tonight, you have the #1 team in the nation facing off against the #2 team, as the Alabama Crimson Tide face off against the LSU Tigers. These two SEC teams faced off in early November, and it was a game dubbed as the game of the century. It was a great game that ended in a 9-6 OT win by LSU and gave Bama it's only loss of the season. It was what many expected from the best defenses in the nation, but this time around, expect at least one touchdown scored. The game, which kicks off tonight at 8 ET, features a talented RB in Trent Richardson for Bama against the hard hitting offense of LSU, led by QB Jordan Jefferson. Each team features a lot of players that are set to be first or second round draft picks, and coaches which have proven to be capable of winning bowl games. And after 5 weeks of waiting since the teams were announced to play each other, it is finally decided tonight. Who do I have winning, you might ask? I'll take the same team I took in their first matchup, a loss that cost me my career high 14 game winning streak in ESPN Beat The Streak, Alabama.
I feel that Alabama has a more complete team on both sides of the football. Their defense, not much can be said other that statistically they are the number one team in the nation. As for the offensive side, Bama has a slight advantage in both passing and rushing, while LSU has scored more point per game then it's counterpart. LSU is a perfect 13-0 this year, with all of it's victories coming in double digit fashion, except for one. Alabama. Many, including myself, wondered why the National Championship game wasn't Oklahoma St. or even Stanford against LSU, with Alabama already getting a shot at them? It's what that damned BCS system does to us. It screws the nation of college playoffs to truly determine a national champion, and instead uses those 3 polls to determine the top two schools. But what's done is done, and all we can look forward to now is a new National Champion, and a first SEC loss in the championship game, tonight in New Orleans live from the Superdome. The game will be tonight at 8 ET, in ESPN. Look for a big game for Trent Richardson, a close game until the 4th quarter, and a 3rd national championship for Nick Saban. Roll Tide!

That Wildcard Weekend

2012-01-06T19:10:00.000-08:00

Now that the NFL regular season is over, it means three things. I'm in winter break right now. It's cold as F@#K outside. And it's time for the first wave of NFL playoffs, that exciting wildcard weekend. We've been entertained in past two years, when we had Green Bay taking on the Cardinals in that thrilling overtime game. Or last year, when Lynch went "beast mode" against Porter and that Saints D. It's one of those plays that shows us that during the playoffs, feel free to throw out any regular season records, stats, or performances. The playoffs are exciting because anything can happen. It was expected for teams like the Packers or Saints to make the playoffs, but we've had some surprises like the Texans in the playoffs for the first time in franchise history or my New York Football Giants getting into the playoffs on the final game of the season. What do these playoffs have in store for us this year. Hopefully excitement, drama, and a whole lot of beast mode in every game.

Bengals @ TEXANS
The Texans are really hurting at the quarterback position, even more so with an injured Andre Johnson at wide receiver. That leaves the offense to be carried by Arian Foster and Ben Tate. This is a great 1-2 combo that allows for a powerful and effective run game all day. The offense will struggle in the air though, as Tar Heel T.J.Yates will make his first playoff start in his rookie year. The Bengals have great youth talent at quarterback and receiver A.J. Green, but lack in offensive explosion. And this is a team going up against the second best defense in the league. I'll take the Texans at home in this one.
Lions @ SAINTS
Perhaps the highest scoring affair this weekend will be when the Detroit Lions take on the New Orleans Saints, home of this year's BCS National Championship Game on Monday. Drew Brees has had a record year in passing yards and seeks to add to the legend by defeating the dangerous combo of Stafford to Megatron. While the Saints have a slight statistical advantage at offense, I give the Lions the edge at defense. If the silver lioning can get to the quarterback a few times, it will change the Saints from a west coast offense to a pound the football team, something I wouldn't want with Ingram out as your pounding back. The Saints are undefeated at home and have great, super bowl calibur, talent and chemistry. Saints beat the Lions.
Falcons @ GIANTS
A game I'll be watching with my heart racing at every snap. Matt Ryan and the Atlanta Falcons take on Eli Manning and the New York Giants to kick off the second half of wildcard weekend. Tremendous talent on both ends, from Turner and Jones on the Falcons to Cruz and Pierre-Paul. Both teams are capable of scoring multiple touchdowns, and I expect turnovers to decide this one. Manning, who is having a career year, is spreading the ball more and the Giants are splitting snaps between Jacobs and Bradshaw. The Falcons rely on Turner for the most part, but burn blitz's with a Ryan bomb into the endzone. I feel like the Giants have a more complete team, and have more momentum coming in, beating the cross town rival Jets and division rival Cowboys on back-to-back weeks. They're capable of containing Turner and forcing the Falcons to throw the ball, which will lead to multiple sacks in this game for the Giants. Giants win in front of a home crowd.
STEELERS @ Broncos
Probably the most one-sided contest this week, the Steelers take on the team with the worst record to make it to the playoffs, the 8-8 Broncos. Credit to Tim Tebow for leading them into the playoffs with a strong mid-season run, but this team is struggling hard. Week 15 and 16, they gave up 40 points to the Patriots and Broncos. Then in Week 17, with a chance to win the AFC West, they lose a low scoring affair with Tebow looking like a true rookie with a laughable performance. Not the momentum you want coming into the playoffs. And while the Steelers are hurting at both quarterback and running back position, with Mendenhall out for the season and Big Ben battling a bad ankle, the defense will get to the quarterback multiple times. I see this as a complete blowout, advantage Steelers.

2012 Forecast

2012-01-03T16:29:00.000-08:00

With the new year here, we've got a new year to wish, to dream, to hope that our team wins the championship. I myself am guilty of that, hoping that my Mets will at least finish .500, or that the Giants make great strides in the playoffs this year. What else do we have to look forward to? Well on the 9th of January, we'll have a new BCS National Champion, with wither Alabama or LSU taking it all. I've got my money on Alabama, since I feel like they have a better defense and can make more explosive plays. Trent Richardson was held in check last game, but surely that'll change this game. If bowl season has taught us anything, it's that you better score 40 points to have a chance. Ok, that's a bit of a stretch, but this game will have at least three touchdowns, not like the "thrilling" 9-6 victory LSU had over Bama to give the school it's only loss of the year. So Roll Tide on this one.
On February 5th, expect a record crowd to view the Superbowl, an event that will be streamed live on NBC for the first time ever. And while we're far from knowing who will participate, I'll take a stab at determining the NFC and AFC championship games. On the AFC side I've got the Patriots and the Ravens facing off, considering the Texans have issues at QB and the Steelers are very down on offense right now. The Broncos, with a QB that completes 2/20 passes and the Bengals with inconsistent offense shouldn't make it far in the playoffs. In the NFC I have the Giants and the Saints facing off. Detroit has an explosive offense but it's defense will give up a few touchdown to Drew Brees, while the 49ers don't have enough offense to compete with these MVP quarterbacks and the Packers barely edged out the Giants last time they met, a lineup that had their starting RB on the bench at the time. These games will be great though, so lets go Giants!
March Madness comes after, with favorites like Syracuse, Duke and North Carolina leading the charge. I really like Duke this year, with outstanding athletes Seth Curry and Austin Rivers leading the charge. Surely my bracket won't be busted like a last year, so no Butler and VCU in this championship matchup this year. Don't expect much from my Scarlet Knights, who play in the toughest conference known as the Big East. With lots of ranked teams in the Big East, they'll make noise in the tournament but won't win it all.
April brings the opening of the MLB season. Just like the scene from Family Guy for my Mets, "And here's the first pitch...and the season's over". That pretty much sums it up for my team. Although we do have excitement brewing across the NL East. The Phillies still have the strongest pitching staff. The Marlins are know the Miami Marlins and took he-who-must-not-be-named as their new SS and Buehrle to go with Johnson in that pitching staff. The Braves have great talent in Heyward and McCann, and just missed the playoffs last year. While the Nationals have a very intriguing team with Werth, Strasburg coming back, Harper possibly being called up, and Fielder potentially signing with them. And on the AL side we have a new manager for the Red Sox in one of my favorite managers, Bobby Valentine. We also have Pujols sporting new wings and a relentless Rangers team who has lost the past two World Series. The new Buffalo Bill's? Only time will tell.

Perhaps the biggest sports tournament this year will be the 2012 Summer Olympics. Before, I wasn't a huge fan of the games in 2004, but the games won my heart in 2008. I watched live as Michael Phelps won his second gold against the French, and Usain Bolt breaking every track record. Plus I am guilty of watching the woman's gymnastics, purely for the sake of competition., yeah. We also had the great American Redeem Team led by LeBron James and Dwight Howard. This year the headlines should be the continuing domination of Phelps, a second gold for USA men's basketball, and Spain or Brazil taking the soccer gold.
In September the NBA season commences (but it just started!). That's weird, but this year brings the free agency of Dwight Howard and the movement of the New Jersey Nets to Brooklyn and the Barclays Center. Exciting time for Jay-Z's team. Let's keep the bandwagoning to a minimum guys. Hopefully before the season starts, LeBron hasn't won a championship, the new look Knicks are NBA champions, and Steve Nash hasn't retired!
In the last 3 months, you have the World Series and hockey/basketball/football in full swing. Championships will be won and lost. Legends will be born and fall. It's the beauty of sports. All can go right or everything will erupt in your face. I can't wait to see what this year brings!

4th and Goal

2011-12-30T20:52:00.000-08:00

Thought the title is fitting. This is it. The end of 2011. Whether you dun goofed earlier a lot this year or really made it a memorable one, it's almost time for 2012. Time to look back, reflect for a bit, and look forward to the promise land. 2012 brings new hope, new chances, and new dreams. Kinda corny, but I really don't give a sh--.
As we move into 2012, dreams will be made and lost on Day 1/365. The NFL regular season comes to an end, there will be a few playoff spots open and the playoffs won't be set in stone until the final game, and arguably the biggest of the day, between the Cowboys @ Giants is played. So here are my picks for Week 17. Last week I got 2 picks wrong, so let's see if we can keep this going. All the bottom you'll see the teams that I have going into the playoffs. And here's to 2012. Cheers \_/

LIONS vs Packers
The Packers are still wondering whether or not to even play Aaron Rodgers and who can blame em? The Lions have one of the best defensive lines and Suh will likely get to the quarterback more than once. With the first round bye and home field advantage locked up for the playoffs, along with a perfect season gone, no reason for the Packers to play with a purpose. I say Lions take it by less that 10.
Titans vs TEXANS
The Texans are a bit banged up offensively, with their 1st and 2nd string quarterbacks out, and Andre just coming back from injury this week. There should be limited action for Foster this week, so look for Tate to take most of the load in the running game. Meanwhile, CJ2K is nowhere to be found. Sucks to be you if you drafted him. Texans win at home.
Colts vs JAGUARS
The Colts will lock up the number one pick in next years draft with a loss, and that's exactly what will happen. The Colts have one of the worst rushing defenses in the league, and the Jaguars have the NFL rushing leader in MJD. Look for multiple scores from MJD in this rout.
JETS vs Dolphins
Jets need a win and more in order to get into the playoffs. I see them winning this game, with a big game from Mark Sanchez. The Dolphins have nothing to play for, and now with their star RB Reggie Bush out, either Matt Moore goes off for 300 yards and 3 scores, or the Jets win. Yeah no, Jets win this one.
BEARS vs Vikings
Da Bears. The Bears had their playoff dreams gone when they lost RB Forte to injury, and with shaky quarterbacks on the roster, the Bears still have a silver lining in pleasant RB Khalil Bell. Bell has had double digit fantasy point performances his last 2 games, and will probably carry the team to a victory over the AP-less Vikings. Jared Allen will get a few hits on the QB, so you have that to look forward to Vikings fans.
Bills vs PATRIOTS
Take Drew Brees out of the equation, and Brady would be needing less than 200 yards in order to break Dan Marino's record. He's having a great season, but is looking at limited action this week. Look for him to sit perhaps after the second half, but still I have the Patriots winning at home.
Panthers vs SAINTS
Coach Payton has said that the Saints will go about business as usual for this game. So I'm calling it right now, all out shoot out. You have the ROY in Cam Newton going up against the should be MVP in Drew Brees in the Big Easy. Look for double digits on both sides, and expect big gains from these players fantasy wise. The biggest toss up for me this week, I have the Saints by 7.
Redskins vs EAGLES
The Eagles had nothing to play for last week, but they played their hearts out. The awesome tandem of Vick and McCoy proves for a lot of Sportscenter Top 10 moments, and look for even more as the Eagles play at home for week 17. The Redskins have nothing going for them this year, and with bad defense against an explosive offense, Eagles are taking this. What a season, dream team!
49ERS vs Rams
With this win, the 49ers could clinch the first round bye, and that's probably what will happen. Their awesome rushing defense goes up against a tough Action Jackson. After that, the Rams have no QB with Bradford out, and a bad defense overall. While the 49ers starters sitting towards the end, they should have enough to lock up the first round bye. Welcome back 49ers football.
Seahawks vs CARDINALS
This not so thrilling matchup provides some star players playing for nothing, except bragging rights. Anyone hear a Cardinals fan? Didn't think so, but they will win this week. Last week I called Larry Fitz for a big game, and it didn't happen. Hopefully that changes this week. My fantasy league is counting on it!
Buccaneers vs FALCONS
The Falcons are hosting the Bucs in what could determine whether the Falcons finish 5th or 6th. While Ryan and Turner should be benched after 30 or so plays, the Falcons have enough depth to hold on to the win. While the Bucs had a promising year coming with an exciting QB/RB duo, look for them to get a few scores this week, but the inevitable loss.
RAVENS vs Bengals
Ravens have said to be treating this like a playoff game, and why not. They can finish anywhere from 2nd, 5th, or 6th in the seeding and determine whether the Bengals get into the playoffs or not. Flacco will need to have a decent game, and the defense will have to contain the Bengals passing game. While the Bengals won't just move over, it should be a defensive game that I have the Ravens winning 20-14.
STEELERS vs Browns
QB Ben Roethlisberger has been listed as probable for this game, but has been said to be limited to 25-30 snaps this game. With a win, the Steelers would also win the AFC North crown and a first round bye. The defense should be coming out and hitting hard against a poor Browns offense, and while Peyton Hillis has been looking good lately, it will probably will not be enough. Steelers win on the road.
Chiefs vs BRONCOS
TEEEBOOOOW. The mile-high city is riding high on the QB out of Florida, riding him all the way to an AFC West title. The Broncos have the control of their own destiny in this matchup, but it will provide to be an interesting one as you have former Broncos QB Orton on the other side of the field. Both quarterbacks will play aggressive, but the Broncos seem to have a slight edge. Given the Broncos have given up back-to-back 40 point games, one was against the Patriots and the other was from 2 pick-6's via Tim Tebow. I don't believe in God. I do believe in Tim Tebow. Broncos win in Denver.
CHARGERS vs Raiders
A interesting AFC matchup that has pro-bowl QB Rivers at one side and start RB's in McFadden and Bush on the other side. The Raiders can still make the playoffs, but I don't see that happening. Rivers should find Gates and Floyd in the endzone in this week 17 win.
Cowboys vs GIANTS
Thank god for flex scheduling, amirite!? The grand daddy of em all, well at least week 17, has the NFC East title, playoff implication, and a nasty rivalry all in one game. You win, you're in is what coaches will be telling players this week. Great matchups all around, from Romo vs. Manning to Ware vs. Pierre-Paul. With Romo playing with a bad hand and the Giants defense getting better every game, including a huge win last week, Giants should edge out the Cowboys, not without a few punches being thrown in the mix.
With these wins holding up, you have the AFC with the Patriots and Ravens getting first round byes. The Jets would be at Texans and Steelers at Broncos during Wildcard weekend. On the NFC side, the Packers and 49ers would have first round byes. Falcons would take on the Saints in New Orleans, and the Giants would host the Lions. Happy New Year, and let's go GIANTS!!!!

It's R Time

2011-12-29T17:24:00.000-08:00

It's time to dedicate an entry to my alma mater with a recap of the year and a small preview of tomorrow's bowl game. As they get ready to play in the New Era Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium, my Rutgers Scarlet Knights (8-4) get set to play Iowa State (6-6). Being a Rutgers fan was a nice surprise this year, as we were picked to finish last in the pre-season polls and finished a win away from a share of the Big East Championship and a potential Orange Bowl bid. Unfortunately, the Scarlet Knights lost their final regular season game at UConn due to awful rushing and bad defense. It wasn't a horrible year though, as we had two overtime wins against conference opponents, a good win against Pitt who at the time had the nation's leading rusher in Graham.

The loss against West Virginia was a sloppy one, a game played on October 29, 2012. I remember it as part of Halloween weekend, and it was to date the only day it snowed in the year. I would say we got around 6 inches, and it made for very sloppy playing conditions. This game was the big return of paralyzed Rutgers player Eric Legrand, accompanied by his teammates, out of the tunnel which was an awesome moment. The grounds crew had to plow the end zones after every drive. During one punt you had like 5 players falling just because the field was so slippery. The best win though came at our final home game. I went with some friends and the feel was electric, the fans came out on November 19 in full force, pom poms at hand, cheering on the Scarlet Knights. The 20-3 win over Cincy had us at the cusp of a championship. The MVP of the team, without a doubt, and today was named the Maxwell Club Tri-State Player of the Year, WR #6 Mohammed Sanu. This guy's been awfully impressive all year long, and will no doubt be at the NFL level soon.

Looking over at Iowa's 6-6 record, they had a decent record the the schedule they faced. With the final polls, you see that Iowa faced 7 ranked teams, it's the kind of thing that happens when you play in the Big 12. Started out 3-0, so things looked promising. Then a loss to the Longhorns at home, and a loss to the would be Heisman winning QB in Griffin III and the Baylor Bears. The worst loss was a 52-17 blowout by the Mizz Tigers, but the best win was arguably the biggest upset of the year, a thrilling 2OT against Oklahoma State, a win that probably kept us from watching LSU vs. OKS at the National Championship game. Not very impressive numbers for either team, so this game should be close at least for most of the game. Rutgers is technically playing at home and has one of the nation's best defenses, while Iowa really only has the running game to their advantage. I think Rutgers takes this game, and gives coach Schiano a 5-1 bowl record, with a final of Rutgers 28, Iowa 17.RU RAH RAH!

Aloha, Pro Bowlers

2011-12-27T23:22:00.000-08:00

The participants of the 2012 NFL Pro Bowl were revealed Tuesday night, with some great picks and some awful snubs.

Starting with the AFC, Brady and Roethlisberger were great picks as they are up there in terms of yards and touchdowns, as well as leading their teams into the playoffs. Rivers was a bit of a head scratcher, as he has too many interceptions, and I personally would have picked Tebow or Flacco even, instead of Rivers. The running backs are lead by Ray Rice out of Rutgers, who's the NFL leader in yards from scrimmage and tied for the AFC lead with 10 rushing touchdowns. The league leader in rushing yards, MJD got the nod, as well as Texans RB Arian Foster. Welker and Mike Wallace, who are in the top 10 in receiving, got the starting picks for the Pro-Bowl. The standout TE from New England, Rob Gronkowski, who set the record for touchdowns for a TE in a single season, will also be starting. The defense is where there are a few mis-picks in my opinion. You have Pittsburgh and Houston being the 1-2 leaders in terms of statistically being the best defenses in the AFC, and you only have Troy Polamalu and CB Joseph there, now there is something seriously wrong. Denver, though, got some great guys in with Bailey, Dumervil, and Von Miller. Revis and Ray Lewis have become standards in setting a pro-bowl roster it seems. New England is sending the most players into the Pro-Bowl with 8 for the AFC.
The NFC is also a bit mis-picked. The quarterbacks are perfect, though, as you have MVP candidates in Aaron Rodgers and Drew Brees leading the way, with Eli Manning as the extra reserve. Stafford is a player that might have been snubbed. RB's were also picked well, as the NFC rushing leader in McCoy getting the starting job, with injured RB Forte finishing second, and the 49ers Frank Gore finishing third. I would have picked Seattle RB Marshawn Lynch over Forte, since Forte has been out for weeks, and Skittles has been a powerful RB that seems to make the highlight reel every week. At wide receivers, you have brand name players in Larry Fitzgerald and Calvin Johnson starting, but missing is Giants WR Victor Cruz, who was not on the starting ballot because of being injured early in the year. Cruz is in the top 5 in receiving in the league, including a 99 yard reception in week 16. At tight end you have Saints standout Jimmy Graham and future hall of famer Tony Gonzalez as the reserve. On defense, you have 4 of the 5 league leaders in sacks getting into the Pro-Bowl, except for LB Aldon Smith from San Francisco. He really needed to be elected. He as 14 sacks and is a big reason the 49ers are the best rushing defense in the NFL. The league leader in tackles, London Fletcher, is also missing from the list. No Rams love on this ballot. The 49ers lead the NFC charge with 8 players headed to Hawaii. The Pro Bowl takes place the week before the Superbowl, January 29, 2012.

An Oldie But A Goodie

2011-12-26T22:11:00.000-08:00

With the NBA season in full swing now, the typical players are making the headlines. From LeBron dropping 30, to Griffin's sick dunk, to Howard's tough block. How bout some love for a two time MVP, seven time all star, 3 time all-nba first team, and my favorite player in the NBA, Steve Nash. This guy is scary good, almost averaging a double-double for his career to go with Nashty passes and a .900 career FT percentage. So he doesn't dunk, and doesn't get crazy blocks. What he does do is crazy crossovers, pinpoint passing, clutch scores, and makes every player around him better. The MVP point guard was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, but grew up in Canada. He always loved sports, and was highly involved in soccer and ice hockey, but didn't start playing basketball until he was eight. From there he went to St. Michaels University school where he nearly averaged a triple double for his senior year. After high school, Nash went to Santa Clara University and would later be drafter by the Suns. After two seasons with the Suns, Nash went to Dallas but returned to Phoenix in 2004, and has been there ever since. He's had great seasons with players like Stoudemire and Nowitzki, but there's no player like Nash. He does so much for the team and for his community, always involved in charity's and bettering the Phoenix community, that makes him my favorite player. He'll play injured, he'll play in the clutch, and he'll play until the clock reads zero.
Nash has also brought us some thrillers, particularly some playoff games against the Spurs and the Lakers. Nash won his MVP's in back-to-back years (2005-06), joining the exclusive club with names like Larry Bird, LeBron James, and Michael Jordan. This two time MVP does so much for a team in terms of numbers and leadership that it often goes overlooked. Along with being a gifted basketball player, Nash also had the opportunity to play soccer for the National Canadian Team. Although he declined the offer, he has done great strides in Major League Soccer too, as he helped bring the expansion Vancouver Team to life, and holds a strong interest in becoming a minority owner of a Premier League team, preferably his favorite team, Tottenham Hotspur. He's also trained with the New York Red Bulls and hosts soccer charity games with superstars like Thierry Henry and Kaka.

He's a team leader who, as Charles Barkley once put it, he doesn't have it in his cards to win an NBA Championship. With weak offensive players put around Nash for this season, I highly doubt they make the playoffs, and guarantee that they won't win the championship this season. He has only a handful of years left in him, with his prime well behind him, but it happens to even the greatest of players. Sometimes it just doesn't work out.

Move Over Marino, Cool Brees Coming Through

2011-12-25T22:01:00.000-08:00

Coming into the Monday Night Football Game, Drew Brees of the New Orleans Saints needs 305 yards to break Dan Marino's 1984 record of most yards in a single season, which currently stands at 5,084. Prior to this season, the 27 year old record was thought to be unbreakable, with Brees coming within 15 yards of breaking the record 3 years ago. Now all he needs is 305 yards in front of what is sure to be a sold out crowd at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome to etch his name into NFL History. Along with a record breaking performance potential, the Saints have a chance to clinch the NFC South by beating the Atlanta Falcons, who currently trail the Saints by 2 games with 2 games to go. Brees is having an MVP type season, throwing for 4,780 yards to go with 37 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. This shouldn't prove to be an easy victory, and Matt Ryan and the Atlanta Falcons have already clinched a playoff berth with a 9-5 record and have a dynamic QB-WR-RB trio. Their first meeting resulted in a 26-23 Saints overtime victory.
Currently ranked first in yards and second in points scored in the league, the Saints are undefeated at home and hope to keep up with the 49ers to potentially get the number two seed for the playoffs. With passing targets that include star TE Jimmy Graham and a returning-to-form Colston, the QB should have no problem getting the 305 yards along with multiple scores in the Monday Night Football game. I have a bit of a soft spot for this particular record, not overlooking previous records like Newton's passing of Manning's rookie record or Cruz's NFL tying 99-yard pass in Week 16. I drafted Brees the last two years as my QB in fantasy football, so it brings me a lot of joy to see him have an MVP year and the potential to break Marino's record.
Look for Drew Brees to lead the Saints to victory, as well as break one of the longest standing records in NFL history, Monday night live from New Orleans, 8:20 ET.

Christmas Day Picks

2011-12-25T00:01:00.000-08:00

We've been waiting all year long for this. It'll be a shortened season, but who gives a F---. The NBA is back, and we've got 5 great games for tip off. Big stories for the year include the signing of Chandler to the Knicks, Paul's trade to L.A., and the Heatles going for round 2 of their run. Already dubbed as the favorites, the Heat look to rebound after last year loss in the NBA finals. Rose has admitted that he hasn't forgotten about last year, and Kobe has been vocal about the lack of management in the loss of Odom and the miss for CP3. As we look forward to the NBA Christmas day games, we look forward to the season long, never ending drama of "As the NBA World Turns".

Teams in CAPS are the teams I have winning.
Celtics vs. KNICKS
Tipin it off in the capital of the world, as we have the Knicks showing off their brand new player in Tyson Chandler to go along with Amare and Melo. And while the Boston three party comes to crash New York's party, we're in new york, they've got an electric offense, and they didn't go quietly last season. I've got the Knicks taking this high scoring affair.
HEAT vs. Mavericks
The rematch of the NBA Finals last year, as the Sith battle the Jedi for control of the galaxy. Where have I seen this before? Anyway, James and Wade, and the third wheel, go into Dallas to face Dirk and the defending champions. The camera will be focused on James as those banners go up, and look for James to take control of this game. An aging Mavs squad won't keep up with the flaming Heat, so I've got the Heat winning, say by 10.
BULLS vs. Lakers
It's the showdown of MVP's in a Hollywood showdown. D-Rose and crew face Kobe in what should prove to be the game of the day. The Lakers, who recently lost Odom, look to prove that they are L.A.'s A-Team, while Rose goes out to prove that his number last year were no fluke. I have them as the NBA champs, and my pick for tomorrow. Too much depth for L.A. to handle. Bulls are taking this.
Magic vs. THUNDER
Whether D12 would remain in Orlando during the post lockout was up in the air every single day. To my surprise, they never gave him up, and now they have 1 season left before he becomes a free agent. That means they must be able to show they can compete with the best in the league. Enter Thunder. This young, exciting team features the high flying antics of Durant and the dominating defense of Surge I-block-ya. With a playoff atmosphere in the arena, look for Durant to overcome the Defensive P-O-Y and his magic in O.K.C.
CLIPPERS vs. Warriors
Here's one of the more exciting teams in the league with Griffin making the jams, even more now that they added Paul and give Kobe a run for his money. While the Warriors do have a good team, the Clippers will simply over match them in this Golden State matchup. Now let the dunks begin!

Christmas Eve Picks

2011-12-23T19:22:00.000-08:00

My first blog, and its a special one. A Christmas Eve edition. Tomorrow means big implications for some playoff hopeful teams, and then there are teams that are trying to "Suck for Luck" (sup Colts). Two great games include the Big Apple Bowl (Giants vs Jets), or the Big Easy Battle between the Matty Ice and Breesus. Let's just hope we all get what we want for Christmas tomorrow, so lets go BIG BLUE!

I have the winning teams in bold.

Browns vs. RAVENS

Ray Rice. He should run circles around this defense. With 20 carries, there's no doubt they win. I wouldn't expect much from Flacco, especially now that one of his WR's is out. Browns have no offense, and the Ravens have one of the league's best defenses.

BRONCOS vs Bills

Is it Tebow Time? Not till there's 5 minutes left in the 4th. But I wouldn't wait that long. Tebow should have a good game, and coming off a humiliating loss last week, the Broncos defense should look sharp against a struggling offense. Expect Fitzy to get big yards, but still suffer a loss.

Buccaneers vs. PANTHERS

It's time for the rookie of the year to make more highlights. Like Brady to Moss 4 years ago, its Cam to Smith all day. And after an embarrassing offensive performance last week, the Bucs won't get that to change this week.

CARDINALS vs. Bengals

Kolb has been rules out for this week, giving John Skelton the start. That's proved great for Larry Fitz, who gets more looks his way during Skeltons' starts. Expect Fitzgerald to get over 100 yards in this Week 16 win.

RAIDERS vs. Chiefs

Dolphins vs. PATRIOTS

The Patriots are coming off a great win against ~~Jesus~~ Tebow, and since they're playing at home against the Fins, this should be gg. Welker is questionable, but with targets like Ochocinco, Hernandez, Branch, or Gronkowski, Brady should have no problem finding the endzone more than once this week.

GIANTS vs. Jets

By far the game I'm most excited to see. The Big Apple Battle. The MetLife Matchup. *Insert Pun Here*. After days of smack talk, one team will come up and one will shut up. I really see this as a shoot out, with Manning having a career year and Sanchez being stellar at home. I see Manning slipping by Revis Island and Sanchez eating dirt multiple times, courtesy of JPP & crew.

Rams vs. STEELERS

Roethlisburger out. Start Batch. I lol'd. But Steelers should win. They're at home. They've got a reason to play. And with the best defense in the league and other playmakers on offense, Pittsburgh will beat out the offenseless Rams.

Jaguars vs. TITANS

This was a big tossup for me. It really comes down to what MJD can do, while if CJ2K shows up. Will we get the 200 yard threat, or the 5 fantasy point running back no one wants to bench, you know, because he maybe decides to show up this week. Titans win by less than 2 possessions.

VIKINGS vs. Redskins

Ponder is having a great year, expect for the big number of interceptions. Despite their record, the Vikings can still go head to head with a top 5 team and fight hard. Even more so, Peterson will be back this week. Highlight reels gonna highlight reel.

Chargers vs. LIONS

Down by 3 scores. Comeback and win. No, its not Tebow Time. It's just Stafford's way of saying this team never gives up. The Silver Lioning came up big last week in the game winning block. With great offense and a big play defense, the playoff bound Lions will win big in Detroit.

EAGLES vs. Cowboys

The Dream Team is back. No, not the Heat. Talking about the Dream Team in Philly. Vick is looking better than ever, and McCoy is always a big play threat. CB Samuels is out, so their defense will be a bit bad vs a resurgent Romo. Another NFC East shootout. If you've got an offensive weapon on fantasy football for either team, you should be good. Let's go Felix Jones!

49ERS vs. Seahawks

49ers already have the NFC West. It's all cruise control here until the playoffs. They might rest some players in the second half, but they still will beat out Skittles and co. It won't be a huge margin though, since we're at Qwest Field, home of the 12th man.

Bears vs. PACKERS

They finally lost. To the Chiefs. So they are beatable. Not this week though. After losing Forte weeks ago, Marion Barber is doubtful this week. So there goes that offense. And while Rodgers was held to a season low 22 fantasy points, he should be good this week. Expect an early benching from Rodgers and other starters, but a Weeks 16 win nonetheless.

Falcons vs. SAINTS

Drew Brees needs 305 yards to break Marino's record. Excpet about 350. It's the Saints at home, with an NFC South Title in reach. While the Falcons have looked great the last few weeks, Brees, Graham, and Colston will find a way to beat you. Saints by 10. check em'