Northside Sports Chatter

The Breakfast Blend...the best part of waking up

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 15:19:00 +0000

By WAM

OLYMPIC HOCKEY, THE MAVERICKS, THE COMBINE AND THE END OF A STREAK

Here's my take on this morning's headlines:

The final four of the Olympic hockey tournament is set, with the United States, Finland, Slovakia and Canada advancing to the semifinals with wins yesterday. Team USA had to battle past a constrictive Swiss team who's strategy was simply to bore the Americans to death by playing what amounted to a prevent defense all game long. It almost worked but Zach Parise got a lucky bounce on a power-play and later buried an empty netter for the 2-0 win. Sure, the Americans were not as sharp as they could have been but the key continues to be the play of goalie Ryan Miller. Miller pitched a shutout on 18 shots and has stopped 60 of 63 shots in his last two games. That's the kind of goaltending that can carry a team to a gold medal. Meanwhile, the home team (Canada) responded from their loss to the Americans with an impressive 7-3 win over a very good Russian team. The game was over as quickly as it started, with the Canadians taking leads of 3-0, 4-0 and 6-1 by the second period. Maybe their loss on Sunday has woken this team up and that is a scary thought for the other three teams left in the tournament. Barring an upset, it appears we are set up for a US-Canada rematch in the gold medal game.

The Dallas Mavericks defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 101-96 last night in a match-up of two of the best teams in the Western Conference. Playing without newly acquired forward (the guy they traded for to guard Kobe Bryant) Caron Butler, the Mavs found a way to limit Bryant to just 20 points on 9-23 shooting. Jason Terry scored 30 points off the bench and Dirk Nowitzki led all scorers with 31 points, including 13 in the fourth quarter. Most importantly, the addition of Brendan Haywood (and Butler once he returns) allows the Mavericks to match-up with the Lakers better than any team in the West. They currently sit at the fourth spot in the West but should be able to move into the top three if they continue to play well. Right now, I have to put Dallas at the top of the list of challenger's to the Lakers in the West.

The NFL combine kicks off today and the annual showcase of speed and skill figures to once again provide plenty of highlights. The combine means far more to some teams than others (see: Raiders, Oakland) but it still signifies the start of the NFL offseason and really gets the draft process rolling for every team and fan alike. Some guys will drastically help their draft stock while others will hurt it just as much so here are some names to keep an eye on this weekend:

Gerald McCoy (DT, Oklahoma) - the Oklahoma defensive tackle is the only real threat to Ndamukong Suh to be the first pick in the draft. A good weekend here could actually make the Rams think long and hard about which dominating defensive lineman to take
Rolando McClain (LB, Alabama) - McClain was the heart and soul of the Tide's defense and no-doubt has the size to be a big-time player in the league. The question about McClain is his speed and if he can be a three-down linebacker; a good 40-time will wipe away all doubts and solidify his spot as a top-12 pick.
Dez Bryant (WR, Oklahoma St.) - After being suspended last year for illegal contact with Deion Sanders, Bryant needs to show he stayed in shape and mentally was not affected by the time-off. He should do fine and end up being the first receiver taken in the draft.
Taylor Mays (S, USC) - Mays looked like a top-5 pick entering this season but had a disappointing senior season. Many feel Mays is a straight-line player who cannot tackle and may be too slow to play in an NFL secondary. Probably no player has more riding on this weekend than Mays.
Terence Cody (DT, Alabama) - There is no denying Cody's ability to be a block-eater in the middle but the big issue is that he is also an eater off the field. Cody came into the Senior Bowl at a comical 375 pounds and needs to be in better shape this week if he wants to remain a first-round pick.
Jahvid Best & Dexter McCluster (RB's, California and Ole Miss) - C.J. Spiller will be the first running back taken in the draft and Jonathan Dwyer is the best traditional running back option. Both Best and McCluster are small, explosive backs and with the recent success of Chris Johnson, both could benefit huge from great 40-times.
Demaryius Thomas & Arrelious Benn (WR's, Georgia Tech and Illinois) - After Bryant, the second receiver spot is up-for-grabs and these two guys are next in line. Thomas continues to move-up draft boards but Benn can move ahead of Thomas with a good weekend.

After 29 games of 25 points or more, Oklahoma City forward Kevin Durant was held to 21 points last night in the Thunder's loss at San Antonio. Durant led the Thunder to a 20-9 record during that span, dating back to December 22nd, and he is the main reason they sit in sixth position in the West. This streak helped vault Durant into the MVP conversation and the 21-year-old is establishing himself as one of the league's four best players. Now that the streak is over, the key is for Durant to continue to help his team win games and make the playoffs in what is becoming a very surprising season for the Thunder.

Finally, I need some help with a survey. Some of you have already participated but, if you have not, please take a minute or two and fill this out for me. You can find the link here - thanks for your help.

Big Ten Sports Survey

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 02:44:00 +0000

Click here to take survey

NBA - Week 17 Power Rankings & Awards Watch

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 19:57:00 +0000

By WAM

NBA WEEK 17 POWER RANKINGS

1. Los Angeles Lakers (42-14) - The Lakers' only loss in their five games without Kobe Bryant was a one-point defeat at the hands of the Celtics on Thursday night. Black Mamba is expected to return from the ankle injury on Tuesday in time for big match-ups with Dallas and Denver.

2. Cleveland Cavaliers (43-14) - An 0-3 start was not the way Danny Ferry envisioned his team playing with the addition of Antawn Jamison. Despite losing three straight for the first time since 2008, Cleveland still holds a five-game lead for the East's top spot.

3. Utah Jazz (36-19) - The Jazz have won 17 of their last 19 games and the schedule over the next few weeks set-ups nicely for Jerry Sloan's team. With games against Charlotte, Sacramento and Houston this week, Utah should be in second place in the West by week's end.

4. Denver Nuggets (37-19) - Carmelo Anthony is getting back on track after missing eight games with an injured ankle. Anthony has scored 86 points in his last three games, including a monster 40-point effort in the Nuggets win at Cleveland last week. Huge game at Los Angeles on Sunday.

5. Orlando Magic (38-19) - Orlando is quietly separating themselves from Boston and Atlanta in both the standings and their performance on the court. As the season winds down, the Magic should be in great shape to hold onto that second spot - they are the deepest team in the NBA.

6. Dallas Mavericks (35-21) - Caron Butler had a nice first week with his new team, averaging 17.4 points and 5.2 rebounds in four games. Wednesday night's showdown with the Lakers will give Butler a chance to show another reason why Dallas acquired him, guarding Kobe Bryant.

7. Boston Celtics (35-19) - Boston closed out a tough five-game west coast road trip with a nine-point loss at Denver. Still, the Celtics finished the trip 3-2 with nice wins at Portland and the Lakers. Kevin Garnett is struggling big time and needs to be a major contributor down the stretch.

8. Atlanta Hawks (34-20) - Atlanta continues to round out the East's top four teams and their youth should give them the upper-hand on Boston for the third seed. They need Marvin Williams to break-out of a slump if they want to challenge Orlando.

9. Oklahoma City Thunder (33-21) - With four of their next five games at home, the Thunder could add to their current nine-game winning streak. Kevin Durant has scored 25 points or more in 28 straight games and he has vaulted himself into the top-three for league MVP (James, Bryant).

10. Phoenix Suns (32-23) - Now that trade talks are over, Phoenix can finally focus on winning games and climbing the standings. They've done a good job with the former, winning eight of their last 10, but have to continue this trend if they want to accomplish the latter.

11. Portland Trail Blazers (32-26) - Brandon Roy's health is the determining factor to Portland's season so registering 34 minutes in consecutive games is a good sign. Marcus Camby is not used to his new team and will have to adjust quickly as the Blazers embark on a five-game east coast road trip.

12. San Antonio Spurs (31-23) - San Antonio is 7-10 since January 15th and have two big home games with Oklahoma City and Phoenix this week. They need to string together some wins if they want to remain a playoff team in the uber-competitive Western conference.

13. Toronto Raptors (31-24) - I was surprised to see that Toronto is fourth in the league in scoring, behind (no surprises here) Phoenix, Golden State and Denver. The Raptors will need big efforts on both ends this week with games against Portland, Cleveland and Oklahoma City.

14. Chicago Bulls (29-26) - Since reports surfaced that Vinny Del Negro was going to be fired, the Bulls have gone 19-9 and have won four in a row since the All-Star break. A weak schedule has helped but Vinny deserves credit for taking the reigns off of Derrick Rose and moving Kirk Hinrich and Taj Gibson into the starting lineup.

15. Miami Heat (29-28) - It's been a rough week for the Heat. After missing out at the trade deadline, Dwayne Wade goes down and will miss a few more games. Miami better hold onto a playoff spot or Wade may be looking to play elsewhere next year.

16. New Orleans (30-26) - Rookie Darren Collison is playing great since taking over Chris Paul's minutes, cracking 20 points in five of his last six games. The Hornets face a tough battle to make the playoffs, with San Antonio and Portland ahead of them and Houston and Memphis right behind them.

17. Houston Rockets (28-27) - The Rockets are 4-9 in their last 13 games and have three games with playoff teams (Orlando, San Antonio, Utah) this week. I may be wrong but I think the deadline addition of Kevin Martin will break them out of this slump and challenge for the eighth seed in the west.

18. Charlotte Bobcats (27-27) - Charlotte is struggling to hang out to the last playoff spot in the east and Tuesday's loss at home to the Nets did not help. Neither did Saturday's loss to the team closest to them in the standings (Milwaukee). The Bobcats have to find a way to win on the road.

19. Milwaukee Bucks (26-28) - The Bucks are 6-3 in February and the addition of John Salmons has paid big dividends already. Milwaukee has a huge week upcoming with five games, including four road games and two back-to-backs.

20. Memphis Grizzlies (28-27) - March cannot come soon enough for the Grizzlies who have won just three games in nine attempts this month. Their playoff dreams are still alive but Memphis has to crank up the intensity of defense.

21. Philadelphia 76ers (21-34) - Philadelphia has followed up a season-high five-game winning streak with three losses in their last four games. After Tuesday's game at Golden State, the Sixers play six consecutive playoff teams - a run that will determine if they can stay in the hunt for the final playoff spot in the east.

22. Los Angeles Clippers (22-33) - With just two wins (and 10 losses) since January 25th, Clippers fans can only hope for a big splash in free agency and a healthy Blake Griffin. DeAndre Jordan has a chance to prove he is not a bust now that Marcus Camby is out of the picture.

23. Detroit Pistons (20-35) - 7, 26, 5, 18, 3, 8, 6, 4, 21. Those are Ben Gordon's scoring outputs for February, a month in which he is averaging 22.9 minutes per game. And that is why I'm glad the Bulls did not match the five-year, $58 million dollar contract the Pistons gave Gordon last summer.

24. Washington Wizards (19-34) - When I lived in Washington DC, the talk about the Wizards surrounded a three-month stretch in 2007 when they had the best record in the east. Fast forward a few years and the three main players on that team are all gone or soon-to-be gone. Let the rebuilding begin.

25. Golden State Warriors (16-39) - If the Warriors played in the East, they may be a playoff team. Led by Monta Ellis, there is not a more fun "bad" team to watch than Golden State. Stephen Curry is making a lot of teams regret passing on him in last years' draft.

26. Sacramento Kings (18-38) - The Kings are a dreadful 4-21 in 2010 and their promising start to the season means nothing more than another lottery appearance. With Tyreke Evans, Omri Casspi, Jason Thompson and the newly-acquired Carl Landry, there are a lot of nice pieces for Kings' to build on, however.

27. New York Knicks (19-35) - Obviously, the focus in New York is on this summer but the players themselves need to understand they too are playing for jobs next year. Just one win in February is not a good way to audition for a spot.

28. Indiana Pacers (19-36) - Hampered by big, bad contracts, the Pacers were unable to make any move at the trade deadline and continue to run in place. At least Danny Granger gives the people of Indianapolis something decent to watch.

29. Minnesota Timberwolves (13-44) - The draft-day trade of O.J. Mayo for Kevin Love is one of the best in recent memory because both teams came out on top. I'll argue that Love (15 points, 11.4 rebounds per game) is and will be the better player, though.

30. New Jersey Nets (5-51) - New Jersey's surprising win at Charlotte moved them ahead of the pace for the worst record in NBA history (albeit by just one game). On the bright side, outside of Chicago, is there a team that passed on Brook Lopez (who went 10th in the 2008 draft) that would pass on him again? Probably not.

AWARDS WATCH

MVP - LeBron James (Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant, Steve Nash)

Sixth Man - Jamal Crawford (Lamar Odom, Jason Terry)

Def. Player - Dwight Howard (Josh Smith, Gerald Wallace)

Rookie of the Year - Tyreke Evans (Stephen Curry, Brandon Jennings)

Most Improved Player - Joakim Noah (Marc Gasol, Josh Smith)

Coach - Scott Brooks (Jerry Sloan, Vinny Del Negro)

The Breakfast Blend...the best part of waking up

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:26:00 +0000

By WAM

USA HOCKEY, THE BLACKHAWKS AND OTHER OLYMPIC THOUGHTS

Here's my take on this morning's headlines:

Just hours before the 30th anniversary of the the program's most significant win, Team USA hockey delivered another upset last night in their surprising 5-3 win over the heavily favored host-country Canadian team. And while yesterday's win was nowhere near as great as the 1980 victory over Russia, beating mighty Team Canada on their ice should certainly give the Americans the confidence they will need as they head to the medal round. From the beginning of the game Team USA was the faster, more aggressive team and no play signified this more than Ryan Kesler's ridiculous empty-netter late in the game. Kesler, Ryan Suter, Brian Rafalski and captain Jamie Langenbrunner were the star skaters for the US but no player was more impressive than goalie Ryan Miller. Doing his best Jim Craig impression, Miller stopped 42 of 45 shots including an unbelievable flurry of attempts over the game's final three minutes. Both teams now continue on to the medal round, albeit in reverse positions of all predictions. The Canadians are the sixth seed and will play Germany tomorrow while the Americans get an extra day of rest and will play the winner of Switzerland-Belarus. Perhaps we may be set up for a rematch in the gold medal game and, if yesterday was any indication, the real winners will be the fans. As NBC play-by-play announcer Mike Emrick said before the game, there are about a million hockey players between these two countries and yesterday's contest featured the best 46.

Four of those players are Chicago Blackhawks and it was great to see them all play a huge role in such a big game. The lone American, Patrick Kane, struggled early and did not contribute a point but overall he played really fast and created some great opportunities. He continues to be a top-option on the power play and Kane will need to find the back of the net if Team USA wants to win gold. On the Canadian side, Jonathan Toews , Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook combined for four points. Toews assisted on two goals, was the only +2 on the roster and was one of the two or three best forwards for Mike Babcock's team. Seabrook had an assist but played limited minutes late in the game. His defensive partner, Keith, led all Canadians in ice-time and had an assist as he played in virtually every situation as Team Canada's #1 defense-man. With his performance yesterday (and this NHL season), Keith proved he is probably the best blue-liner in the world. Grades: Kane B-, Toews A-, Seabrook B, Keith A.

Here are some other Olympic thoughts:

Bode Miller finally won a gold medal yesterday in the super-combi event. He has battled personal demons and failures to get back to this point and it was great to see his hard work pay-off.
I still cannot believe NBC chose to put the hockey game on MSNBC instead of the mother-ship. The game was the biggest non-gold medal event of the Olympics and this morning NBC executives are probably regretting their decision.
To make matters worse, NBC had the second round of ice dancing on the main channel. What were they thinking?
As a Blackhawks fan, I have the privilege of listening to color-commentator Eddie Olczyk on a regular basis and he has been awesome during these Olympics. Eddie O is always pointing out the intricacies of the game and does a fantastic job providing the right amount of emotion for the situation. As the game ended, he said it was "tremendously tremendous" - what a perfect way to describe last night.
Week 1 of the Olympics is in the books and the story so far has been the domination of the American team. Led by our stars (Shani Davis, Anton Apolo Ohno, Evan Lysacek, Shaun White, Lindsey Vonn, Bode Miller, hockey), Team USA has racked up an Olympic-best 7 gold medals and 24 overall medals. A gold medal in hockey may make this one of the greatest winter games performances of all-time. The women's hockey team also has a chance to win gold.
Unfortunately, the US curling teams are not on that list.
Here's what I'm looking forward to this week: Bobsled, curling/hockey elimination rounds, women's figure skating, freestyle skiing.

NBA Trade Deadline Wrap-Up

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 21:27:00 +0000

By WAM

NBA TRADE DEADLINE WRAP-UP

The NBA trade deadline has passed as some teams spent the last week trying to add that one missing piece while others simply focused on reducing costs in anticipation of the 2010 free agent class. Several contenders really helped themselves while others failed to make a move so here's a look at the winners and losers of the NBA's annual trade festival.

Winners

Houston Rockets

I really liked what the Rockets accomplished today and it is not surprising that the Rockets were the big winners - Daryl Morey continues to prove he is one of the league's best general managers. Morey turned Tracy McGrady's $22.8M expiring contract and forward Carl Landry into Kevin Martin, Jared Jeffries and two first round draft picks from the New York Knicks (a top-1 protected selection in 2011 and a top-5 protected selection in 2012). Martin is a very good player who just did not have a spot anymore in Sacramento's rotation and is exactly the kind of back-court outside presence the Rockets desperately need. He is under contract through 2013 for a very reasonable $11.8M average. Jeffries provides depth and his $6.8M cap number next year (assuming he picks up his player-option) will be a nice piece come next year's trade season. And with uncertainties in New York, both of those picks could turn into top-8 selections. On the other side of things, McGrady has been done in Houston for a long time so his loss means nothing (he was not even playing). Landry is a solid player at a very good price but Houston is deep in the front-court and could afford to move one player.

Dallas Mavericks

Dallas made their big move last Saturday but that does not mean they should not be mentioned. Adding Caron Butler and Brendan Haywood for Josh Howard and change was a great swap for Mark Cuban's squad. Butler gives the Mavericks a more consistent version of Howard who is still relatively young and is a hard-nosed player. Haywood adds depth to a front-line that needs it and should get big crunch-time minutes while Erick Dampier comes back from injury. Dallas is surprising a lot of teams this year with their consistent play and this move propels them past Denver and Utah as the West's second best team, in my opinion.

Chicago Bulls

For the second straight year, the Bulls improved their salary-cap situation without sacrificing the current product on the court and that has to be considered a big win for Chicago. In two separate moves, the Bulls traded John Salmons (and his $6.5M player option for 2010) and draft-bust Tyrus Thomas for Hakim Warrick and Joe Alexander from Milwaukee and Acie Law, Flip Murray and a protected first-round pick from the Charlotte Bobcats. Murray, Law and Warrick add depth to a very short bench but the real story is that the Bulls will be about $20M under the salary cap entering free agency, allowing them to offer a max-contract to LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh or any other big-time free agent. With Miami's failures on trade-day (more on this below), Chicago may be the top destination for a max-contract player come this summer.

Ehhhhh....

New York Knicks

After years of speculation, the Knicks had to wait until the final minutes of the trade deadline to finally find the cap-relief they need to offer a max-contract this summer. McGrady sounds very excited to be headed to New York and he is auditioning for one more deal so he should play well for the Knicks down the stretch. As for free agency, New York is undeniably a top destination for obvious reasons but unfortunately none (except Madison Square Garden) have anything to do with basketball. The Knicks are banking on a guy like James or Wade wanting to play in New York because it's New York - and they are asking these same guys to forget the fact that the team has no talent (outside of David Lee who will probably sign elsewhere this summer), has no young pieces (you can keep Danilo Gallinari) and will not have a top draft pick in 2011 or 2012. If the Knicks can land a top-3 pick in this year's draft and convince James (or maybe Wade) to sign, the future will be bright. If not, the Knicks may be headed for another insufferable decade.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Look, there is no denying the fact that Antawn Jamison makes the Cavaliers better this season and the next two. But I still do not like what they have done to keep LeBron happy and in a Cleveland uniform. To illustrate this point, let's look at perhaps the league's next-best young superstar, Kevin Durant. Durant is currently the alpha-player on an Oklahoma City team where the next four guys in minutes per game are 25 or younger. This means Durant(chula) is going to grow as a NBA player with a group of core players that he has been with for years. Cleveland has not given LeBron this opportunity. They have decided to walk through door #2: win a championship and hope LeBron wants to stay. Jamison may help accomplish this goal but he is not the guy LeBron can grow old with, for lack of a better term. Maybe Amare Stoudemire would have been a better choice. Again, time will tell.

La-hew Za-her

Phoenix Suns

The Suns have been in limbo for the better part of the decade. They were serious title contenders a few years ago - one big suspension may have cost them a championship - and have been fighting to stay in the West's elite for the last few seasons. They currently sit in seventh place at 32-23 but probably cannot beat any of the four teams ahead of them in a seven-game series. General manager had a chance to start rebuilding while still fielding a competitive team but decided not to trade Amare Stoudemire today. Stoudemire could have brought Phoenix a good young player and draft picks but now the Suns have some major long-term questions. Maybe the offers for Stoudemire were not that great - I can defend Kerr if that was the case. But if the various reports are true, Phoenix missed the boat and will pay for it the next few years.

San Antonio Spurs

More often than not, trade deadline losers are contending teams that did not help themselves and San Antonio is the first of these teams in this analysis. The Spurs have some major problems and did nothing to help their team. San Antonio, while currently tied for fifth in the West, looks very old and the combination of Manu Ginobli, Tony Parker and Richard Jefferson just is not working. Rookie DaJaun Blair is being asked to do too-much as well. San Antonio would have been wise to add an athletic front-line player who can match-up with big-men like Pau Gasol, Dirk Nowitzki and Stoudemire. Tyrus Thomas looked like a great option for that role.

Boston Celtics

Like the Spurs, Boston is old and does not have a lot of depth. They added Nate Robinson to try and get a spark off the bench but he is the kind of scorer who needs a lot of shots to get his points. Defense is also optional for Robinson so it's hard to imagine him fitting in too well on this roster. Maybe the Celtics should have taken a run at Kevin Martin by offering Ray Allen and his $19.7M expiring contract. The #2 spot in the East is still up for grabs and it's surprising to see Boston not try to make a run at it. I just don't think this current roster, given their age and injury concerns, can compete for another three months.

The Breakfast Blend...the best part of waking up

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 15:46:00 +0000

By WAM

THE OLYMPICS, ANTAWN JAMISON, NBA TRADE CHATTER & TIGER WOODS

Here's my take on this morning's headlines:

After a few days of solid yet unspectacular Olympic performances, Wednesday night was the first chance for the Americans to really show off the goods with their four biggest "stars" competing. And while Apolo Anton Ohno set himself up for another medal in qualifying last night, Lindsey Vonn, Shani Davis and Shaun White were all competing for gold - and did they ever deliver. All three took home gold medals in spectacular fashion in what may be the night we most remember about the 2010 Olympic games. Vonn proved her injured shin will not hamper her Olympic performance in her first event, women's downhill alpine skiing. Davis became the first man to win back-to-back gold medals in the 1000 meter speed skating event and is quickly changing the face of the winter Olympics. The night was capped-off with White winning his second straight gold medal in the men's half-pipe. Superlatives do not do justice to White's performance and overall dominance in his sport. He secured gold with his first run and used his victory lap to break out the much talked-about McTwist trick and up his score to a near flawless 48.4 score. It was a great night for the Americans and tonight can be just as great. Ohno will attempt to break the winter Olympics medal record and figure skater Evan Lysacek will try to become the first American man to win gold since 1988.

The Cleveland Cavaliers acquired Antawn Jamison from the Washington Wizards in a three-team deal that solidifies their place as the team to beat in the Eastern Conference. It's fair to say that for the first time in his career, LeBron James has a legitimate second-option to play with as Jamison, although he is 33, is still playing at a very high level, averaging 20.5 points and 8.8 rebounds this season. On the surface, this move may be the one that keeps LeBron in Cleveland for years to come. But is this really the case? The Cavaliers have been so focused on winning a championship that they have refused to get a young player or two who James can grow with over the course of his career and yesterday's move was no different. Sure, Amare Stoudemire has his deficiencies, particularly on defense, but he is only 27 and may be the better long-term option. If James resigns with the Cavaliers, he will have another two years with Jamison where he could have had five or even six years with Stoudemire. Time will tell if this was the right move but it is probably will be for the 2009-2010 season.

With more trades coming before today's 3ET deadline, we will certainly see some more head-scratcher's from teams looking to dump salary. Look at what Washington got in return for Jamison: Zydrunas Ilgauskas (whom they will release), the rights to Emir Preldzic, Al Thornton (from the Clippers) and Cleveland's first-round pick (which will probably be somewhere between 26-30). Basically, the Wizards got nothing and this is becoming the norm in today's NBA. There used to be a time where "sellers" would at least get a good, young player and a prospect at the trade deadline but those days are long gone. Now teams are dumping legitimate stars for nothing but cap-relief and this could set-up a dangerous talent differential between the haves and the have-nots for years to come.

Tiger Woods is finally ready to talk and tomorrow's press conference cannot come soon enough for the world of sports journalists. Of course, Woods will not take questions - he is simply preparing for his return before this years' Masters. He has followed the book on how to suppress a scandal perfectly: admit your wrongdoing, stay out of the public eye for a few months, make a statement, have a one-on-one with a big-time reporter (still to come) and then return to action. Tomorrow should be very interesting but the real story will come when Woods returns to the course sometime in late March or early April.

NFL - Biggest Offseason Questions, Fantasy Outlook & Playoff Predictions

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 21:04:00 +0000

By WAM

NFL 2010 - BIGGEST OFFSEASON QUESTIONS, FANTASY OUTLOOK & PLAYOFF PREDICTIONS

After taking an early look at every team in the league, it is time to rundown the 10 biggest questions of the NFL offseason, take a look at the fantasy outlook and make a few bold, premature playoff predictions. Obviously a lot will change from now until the start of the season and the questions below will dictate a lot of the movement.

10 Biggest Offseason Questions

(10) Who's my quarterback?

By my count, there are eight teams that are or may be looking for a quarterback. Arizona (Matt Leinart), San Francisco (Alex Smith), Cleveland (Brady Quinn or Derek Anderson) and Carolina (Jake Delhomme or Matt Moore) have quarterbacks on their rosters with starting experience but may entertain the idea of bringing in someone else. St. Louis and Oakland could decide to stay with someone in-house as well but both desperately need an upgrade. Buffalo and Washington are almost guaranteed to have new signal-callers. If Washington lets Jason Campbell go, he will be an attractive option to one of the other seven teams mentioned.

(9) Will Ed Reed retire?

Reed has been the best safety in the NFL over the last ten seasons but injuries are really starting to catch up to him. Following the Ravens defeat by the Colts in the AFC Divisional Round, Reed said retirement is an option and he has still not made a decision. The Ravens certainly hope Reed decides to come back and play, as do most NFL fans. I think he will play again but you never know.

(8) Can the Patriots "reload" and make another Super Bowl run?

I call it reloading but in all fairness the Patriots are pretty stacked with talent. The thought of them having five draft picks in the first three rounds has to be scary to the rest of the league. If New England drafts well (or uses some picks to add a premier player), they could easily become the league's best team once again. Tom Brady is 32-years-old so the time to make a move is now.

(7) What will happen with Reggie Bush?

Bush is owed a whopping $8 million next season and $11.8 million in 2011. That is a lot of money for a non-featured running back who catches some passes and is a solid punt returner. Add in the fact that starting running back Pierre Thomas needs a new contract and the Saints have to do something about Bush's cap number. They will probably ask him to restructure his contract to be more incentive laden but, if Bush denies their request, the Saints may be forced to trade him.

(6) What can Lovie Smith do to keep his job in Chicago?

The simple answer is win but that is not going to be easy given the Bears' lack of talent, numerous expensive contracts and lack of draft picks. Both Smith and general manager Jerry Angelo know they have to make the playoffs if they want to keep their jobs so they will put in extra hours this offseason to better the team. Smith started the process with the hiring of offensive coordinator Mike Martz, a good move for his short-term future.

(5) What will San Diego do with two of their former stars?

Both Ladainian Tomlinson and Shawne Merriman have been vital figures in the Chargers organization for the better part of the decade but both are well past their primes. Merriman will be easily replaced with 2009 first-round pick Larry English; replacing Tomlinson may not be so easy. Tomlinson was the best running back this decade but his days in San Diego appear to be over. Aside from replacing his declining production, it will be hard to replace his popularity in the clubhouse and amongst fans.

(4) Where will Brandon Marshall be playing next season?

Marshall's talent is undeniable, as evidenced by his 21 catch, 200 yard game in Week 14 at Indianapolis. But Marshall is a nightmare off-the-field and has butted heads with coach Josh McDaniels from day one and the Broncos are now forced to move him. There will be a number of suitors for the 25-year-old star wide receiver and whichever team lands Marshall is getting a great player, on the field.

(3) What will happen with Julius Peppers?

Peppers is the kind of pass-rusher every team in the league wants and Carolina cannot afford to pay him - using the franchise tag would result in a cap hit of approximately $21.8 million. If they do not sign him by March 5th, Peppers will become the most sought after unrestricted free agent in the league. Teams like New England, Chicago, Atlanta and Tennessee will be competing for his services.

(2) Will Donovan McNabb be traded?

Eagles fans have grown tired of the McNabb-Andy Reid combination but has the organization? McNabb is still playing at a very high level but Philadelphia likes the idea of Kevin Kolb becoming their starting quarterback. The market for McNabb would be huge, particularly if Brett Favre retires, and the Eagles could get an offer that is too good to refuse. If Favre returns, expect Arizona, Carolina, San Francisco and Buffalo all to make runs at McNabb.

(1) Will Brett Favre retire?

Of course, once again, Brett Favre is the main story of the NFL offseason. This time, however, it is for good reason. If Favre walks, Minnesota is not a Super Bowl team unless they trade for McNabb. If Favre returns, the Vikings might be the favorites to win the NFC. After the way last season ended (and how well he played in 2009), it is hard to imagine Favre retiring for good. 2010 will be the last time Favre chases that elusive second Lombardi Trophy.

Fantasy Forecast (an early look at the top-five at each position and one sleeper pick)

Quarterback: Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees, Philip Rivers, Peyton Manning, Tony Romo, Carson Palmer (sleeper)

Running Back: Chris Johnson, Maurice Jones-Drew, Adrian Peterson, Frank Gore, Ray Rice, Felix Jones (sleeper)

Wide Receiver: Andre Johnson, Miles Austin, Larry Fitzgerald, Roddy White, Vincent Jackson, Devin Aromashodu/Kenny Britt (sleepers)

Tight End: Dallas Clark, Antonio Gates, Jason Witten, Tony Gonzalez, Jermichael Finley, Dustin Keller (sleeper)

Defense: Jets, Packers, Cowboys, Steelers, Vikings, Titans (sleeper)

Kicker: Stephen Gostkowski, Mason Crosby, Nate Kaeding, Ryan Longwell, Rob Bironas, David Buehler (sleeper)

Playoff Predictions

AFC

1. Indianapolis Colts

2. New England Patriots

3. San Diego Chargers

4. Pittsburgh Steelers

5. Tennessee Titans

6. New York Jets

First Round: Chargers over Jets, Titans over Steelers

Second Round: Patriots over Chargers, Colts over Titans

Third Round: Patriots over Colts

NFC

1. Minnesota Vikings

2. Dallas Cowboys

3. New Orleans Saints

4. San Francisco 49ers

5. New York Giants

6. Green Bay Packers

First Round: Saints over Packers, Giants over 49ers

Second Round: Cowboys over Saints, Vikings over Giants

Third Round: Cowboys over Vikings

Super Bowl: Cowboys over Patriots

NFL - AFC East & NFC North 2010 Preview

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 17:48:00 +0000

By WAM

AFC EAST & NFC NORTH 2010 PREVIEW

In part four of our five-part preview on the 2010 NFL season, we will look at the AFC East & NFC North divisions. Click here for part one (NFC South & AFC West), here for part two (AFC South & NFC West) and here for part three (AFC North & NFC East). Do not forget to vote either!

AFC East (Teams will play AFC North & NFC North divisions)

New England Patriots

2009 Review: The Patriots were among the league favorites to win the Super Bowl last season but sluggishly played their way to a 10-6 record and a first-round playoff loss. Statistically, the Patriots were in the NFL's top-10 in yards and points, both on offense and defense. New England lacked the "it" factor this season, failing to make crucial plays when they had to, on both sides of the ball.
2009 MVP: Tie between quarterback Tom Brady and wide receiver Wes Welker
Offseason Questions: The injury to Welker in a meaningless Week 17 game is a tough loss as the league's leading pass-catcher will spend the offseason rehabbing instead of training. Welker may not be ready to play when the season starts. Also, can coach Bill Belichick, a renowned defensive guru, get his defense back to playing at an elite level?
Biggest Free Agents: Defensive tackle Vince Wilfork, running back Kevin Faulk, guard Logan Mankins, defensive end Jarvis Green, linebacker Tully Banta-Cain, corner Leigh Bodden.
2010 Upgrades: It's hard to believe that the Team of the Decade had just two 1,000 yard rushers. But the running back position has not been a strength in New England since Corey Dillon in 2004 and the team has been hurt by this lack of talent the last three seasons. The Patriots have to address it this offseason. New England also has to re-tool the defense and add some young talent to the core they already have.
Draft: New England has five picks in the first three rounds so the options are numerous. With the 22nd overall pick, Belichick will certainly take a defensive player, probably a linebacker. The three second-round picks give New England lots of options but drafting a running back is high on that list. Do not forget that the Patriots own the Raiders 2011 first-round pick, which should be a top-8 selection. Can they use these draft picks to pry away DeAngelo Williams from Carolina?
2010 Breakout Player: Cornerback Darius Butler had a fine rookie season and, under Belichick's tutelage, should make a big jump in year two as the Patriots look for an injection of youth on defense.
Schedule: It's become the norm for the Patriots to play a first-place schedule and 2010 will be no different. For the first time in seemingly forever, the Colts will play at New England, as will the Packers, Vikings, Ravens and Bengals. The Patriots will play at Chicago, Pittsburgh and San Diego.

New York Jets

2009 Review: The Jets looked dead in late November but reeled-off five victories in their final six games to make the playoffs and then used that momentum to make a run to the AFC Championship game. Not a bad season for rookie head coach Rex Ryan and his team, led by rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez. Ryan proved to be a terrific motivator and Sanchez really shined in the playoffs. The future is very bright for the Jets.
2009 MVP: Cornerback Darrelle Revis
Offseason Questions: Can the Jets build on their unexpected success? Is Braylon Edwards in the teams' long-term plans? What about Leon Washington? How much will Sanchez grow in year two?
Biggest Free Agents: Edwards, Washington, fullback Tony Richardson, defensive end Marques Douglas.
2010 Upgrades: The Jets really have a good, young roster and there are only two areas that they need to address. Finding a wide receiver is objective #1 as it appears the Jets do not feel Edwards can be that guy. They also need to find another corner to pair with Revis, the NFL's best cover-man. After that, any other additions are bonuses.
Draft: Last year the Jets traded up for Mark Sanchez and then traded every day-two pick for the first selection in round three to select running back Shonn Greene. Both contributed immediately and look like cornerstones of the future. With the 29th pick, the Jets will have to take a wide receiver, even if they decide to keep Edwards.
2010 Breakout Player: Greene is the obvious choice. Thomas Jones has been great for the Jets but is 31 and you have to think he will slow down at some point soon. Greene showed tremendous talent late in the season and particularly in the playoffs so, if he gets the carries, he should explode in the Jets run-heavy offense.
Schedule: Like the Patriots, the Jets get the two best inter-conference teams (Green Bay and Minnesota) at home while playing Chicago and Detroit on the road. They also play Pittsburgh at home and Baltimore and Houston on the road.

Miami Dolphins

2009 Review: After a surprising 11-5 2008 season following a 1-15 campaign, the Dolphins struggled to regain that magic last season as injuries and a difficult schedule doomed Miami to a 7-9 record. They had a chance to reach the playoffs but lost their final three games.
2009 MVP: Running back Ricky Williams
Offseason Questions: After Chad Pennington went down with a season-ending injury, second-year quarterback Chad Henne stepped into the starting role and played well enough to prove he is the quarterback of the future. How much he develops in year three is a major story. The Dolphins also have to address a major lack of talent in their front-seven.
Biggest Free Agents: Running back Ronnie Brown (only if a CBA deal is reached), linebacker Joey Porter, tight end Anthony Fasano, defensive tackle Jason Ferguson, defensive end Jason Taylor.
2010 Upgrades: Ferguson is the point-man in the 3-4 system but he is 35 so the Dolphins need to find a replacement up-front. The linebacking core really needs some help as well. And it appears that Ted Ginn Jr. will never develop into a top-receiver so Miami will be in the market for one.
Draft: It's never a bad thing when Bill Parcells is the guy calling the shots in your draft room. Inside linebacker Rolando McClain will likely be available at 12 and the Dolphins would be wise to take him.
2010 Breakout Player: Henne really impressed me last season and he has all the tools to become a great quarterback. He needs some help on the outside but should make solid improvement in 2010. Keep an eye on former Canadian Football League star Cameron Wake. As the season went on, Wake started to make an impact and, with Porter's departure imminent, Wake could be a double-digit sack guy.
Schedule: The Dolphins had the toughest schedule in the league in 2009 so 2010 will be much more kind. Home games against Minnesota, Green Bay and Baltimore will tough, as will road games at Pittsburgh, Tennessee and Chicago.

Buffalo Bills

2009 Review: The Bills completed the decade without a single playoff appearance as the "rebuilding" process continues. Buffalo has hired Chan Gailey to turn the franchise around and his focus has to be finding a franchise quarterback.
2009 MVP: Running back Fred Jackson
Offseason Questions: The quarterback situation is obviously a big issue in Buffalo and has been for years. The Bills also have a difficult decision to make at running back. Marshawn Lynch looked like a franchise back early in his career but has struggled with off-the-field issues. Jackson has stepped up in his absence and been a surprise star. Will the Bills go with both Lynch and Jackson or try to move Lynch?
Biggest Free Agents: Wide receiver Lee Evans, wide receiver Terrell Owens, cornerback Ashton Youboty.
2010 Upgrades: Outside of quarterback, the Bills offensive line was a disaster in 2009, at times starting four rookies. The defense was not much better, ranking 19th in the league despite having the second best pass defense. In general, this roster needs a lot of work.
Draft: Buffalo has to get a quarterback and it is widely assumed they will select Jimmy Clausen with the ninth pick. Clausen played in a pro-style offense and looks like a great prospect so he should offer a great starting point for the Bills' renewal.
2010 Breakout Player: He does not qualify as a "breakout" player but Lee Evans is certainly a candidate for a bounce-back season. Evans continues to be one of the best kept secrets in the NFL and with the addition of Clausen, plus the departure of Owens, Evans should reclaim his spot as the Bills #1 receiver and top 1,000 yards for the third time in his career.
Schedule: Road match-ups with Baltimore, Cincinnati, Green Bay and Minnesota spell disaster for Buffalo. They may get their franchise quarterback this year but reaching four wins may be a stretch for the Bills in 2010.

Conference Outlook: Patriots (12-4, first-round bye contention), Jets (10-6), Dolphins (8-8), Bills (3-13)

NFC North (Teams will play AFC East & NFC East divisions)

Minnesota Vikings

2009 Review: Fresh off a division title in 2008, the Vikings were favorites to repeat in 2009 despite their lack of a quarterback. Then Brett Favre came out of retirement and the rest is history. Before the Saints Super Bowl win, a strong case could be made for Minnesota as the NFC's best team.
2009 MVP: Favre
Offseason Questions: Obviously the whole league will be following the Favre situation. If he returns, Minnesota is a Super Bowl contender. If he does not, Minnesota will battle for a wildcard spot. Outside of Favre, can Adrian Peterson learn how to hang onto the football? Do the Vikings need some help at safety? What can they do to improve their kick-coverage unit?
Biggest Free Agents: Running back Chester Taylor, defensive end Ray Edwards, corner Benny Sapp.
2010 Upgrades: If Favre does not return, the quarterback position will be huge. With Taylor likely departing, the Vikings will need to find a solid backup for Peterson. They may want to add a guard along the offensive line. Perhaps the Vikings will bring in a veteran linebacker to push Ben Leber for the starting strong-side spot. Antoine Winfield broke down last year so the Vikings will either resign Sapp or add another corner.
Draft: The Vikings are in a position to draft to famous best-available player. Whether it is a corner, safety or defensive lineman, the 30th pick will likely be a defensive player.
2010 Breakout Player: Cedric Griffin is quietly becoming one the best cornerbacks in the NFC and, with Winfield starting to look old, may take over the top-spot in the Vikings secondary. Griffin is a big, physical guy who excels against the run but will make more plays in the passing-game in 2010.
Schedule: The road back to a first-round bye will be difficult for Minnesota, with road games at New Orleans, New England, the Jets and Philadelphia. The home schedule is a bit easier but still features Dallas, the Giants and Arizona.

Green Bay Packers

2009 Review: After a sub-par 2008 season with a disappointing defense, the Packers switched to a 3-4 alignment and were one of the two best defense's in the NFL in 2009. Aaron Rodgers continues to develop and is now in the conversation with the top-five quarterbacks in the league. Green Bay was the youngest team in the NFL for the third time in four years and the future for the Packers may be brighter than any other team.
2009 MVP: Tie, Rodgers and cornerback Charles Woodson
Offseason Questions: How much will rookies Clay Matthews and BJ Raji improve in year two? Can 35-year-old receiver Donald Driver continue to put up 1,000 yard seasons? Was the defense exposed in the playoffs or was Kurt Warner simply on-fire? What will they do with Aaron Kampman?
Biggest Free Agents: Kampman, defensive lineman Johnny Jolly and Ryan Pickett, corner Will Blackmon, safeties Atari Bigby and Nick Collins
2010 Upgrades: The only real weak-spot on this team is the offensive line. Rodgers was sacked a league-leading 51 times last year and it's incredible he played as well as he did given his blocking group. Expect the Packers to add multiple offensive lineman, upwards of five.
Draft: Not to be a broken-record but this draft is full of defensive lineman and offensive lineman. With the 23rd pick, Green Bay will take an offensive lineman unless someone falls to them that is too good pass up. Remember, that's how Rodgers became their quarterback.
2010 Breakout Player: I'd love to say Jermichael Finley but I think 2009 was his breakout year. Finley can be a top-eight tight end next year. With either Jolly or Pickett likely to leave, Raji stands to get ample playing time and the former first-round pick should make a huge impact.
Schedule: The Packers play Philadelphia, Atlanta, New England and the Jets on the road and Dallas, San Francisco and the Giants at home. The schedule sets up nicely for Green Bay to earn a playoff birth.

Chicago Bears

2009 Review: Outside of maybe Pittsburgh, it's hard to find a more disappointing team in 2009 than the Bears. After trading for Jay Cutler, the Bears were excited to finally have a franchise quarterback but those feelings quickly vanished. Cutler struggled, leading the league in interceptions, but, more importantly, the once dominating defense was a disaster at every level.
2009 MVP: Linebacker Lance Briggs
Offseason Questions: Lovie Smith tops the list of coaches on the hot seat so he has to figure out a way to win 10 games and make playoffs. Will new offensive coordinator Mike Martz work well with Jay Cutler? Can Matt Forte rebound from a bad sophomore season? What about the offensive line? And on defense, who can rush the passer or make plays in the secondary? Can Tommie Harris return to his pro-bowl form? That's a lot of questions for a team without a first or second round draft pick.
Biggest Free Agents: Defensive end Adewale Ogunleye, linebackers Nick Roach and Jamar Williams, safety Daniel Manning.
2010 Upgrades: The receiver position has been an issue in Chicago for many years but it will have to wait once again - this roster has too many other holes. Specifically, the offensive line needs a player or two, the secondary needs a play-maker (safety) and the defensive line needs pass-rushers. In order of importance, it goes pass-rusher, offensive line, safety.
Draft: No first or second round pick in one of the deepest drafts in recent memory is not a good way to save your job. The Bears will either have to do an incredible job late in the draft or will have to find a trade to get back into the second round.
2010 Breakout Player: For all the talk about a lack of receivers, the group actually did a fairly nice job thanks to the emergence of Earl Bennett and fifth-round draft pick Johnny Knox. Cutler's favorite target in training camp was Devin Aromashodu but he was hurt for most of the season. Aromashodu finally got some playing time in the final weeks and responded with 22 catches for 286 yards and four touchdowns. A full year for Aromashodu could mean big numbers.
Schedule: The Bears get the tougher AFC opponents (New England and the Jets) at home coupled with road games at Dallas, Miami, the Giants and Carolina. The bottom line is Lovie Smith better find 10 wins in the group.

Detroit Lions

2009 Review: Don't let the 2-14 record fool you - 2009 was a big step in the right direction for the lowly Lions. Most importantly, it appears they may have finally figured out the quarterback position with Matthew Stafford. Now the challenge is building the rest of the team.
2009 MVP: Wide receiver Calvin Johnson
Offseason Questions: Head coach Jim Schwartz proved he may be the right man for the job and 2010 has to be another good offseason. Detroit must find a way to protect Stafford so his second season is not injury-riddled like 2009 was. Who is the leader of the defense?
Biggest Free Agents: Defensive end Jason Hunter, corners Anthony Henry and William James.
2010 Upgrades: For a team that has been rebuilding for a long time, it's hard to believe the Lions had the oldest defense in the NFL last season. While finding some offensive lineman is crucial, the defense really needs a face-lift.
Draft: Detroit will get one of the top-two defensive players with the second pick. Whether that player is Gerald McCoy or Ndamukong Suh, the Lions will happily welcome either disruptive tackle.
2010 Breakout Player: Tight end Brandon Pettigrew looks like a good bet and someone on the defense will emerge. 2009 third-round pick DeAndre Levy was third on the team in tackles and looks like a steal. Levy could be the face of the new Lions defense.
Schedule: Look, Detroit is going to be underdogs in virtually every game and it does not help that they have to play New England, the Jets, Dallas, Philadelphia, the Giants, Miami and Minnesota and Green Bay twice. It's safe to say Detroit will be selecting in the top-five again next year but they are moving in the right direction.

Conference Outlook (with Favre): Vikings (13-3, first-round bye), Packers (10-6, wildcard contention), Bears (5-11), Lions (3-13)

Conference Outlook (without Favre): Packers (11-5, division winner), Vikings (9-7), Bears (6-10), Lions (3-13)

2010 Olympics Preview

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 19:22:00 +0000

By WAM

2010 VANCOUVER OLYMPICS PREVIEW

The American sporting world will take a backseat for the next few weeks as the Vancouver Olympics will take center stage. While a lot of eyes will focus solely on the hockey competition (and rightfully so), the Games offer a lot of exciting medal-action from beginning to end. I may not be up-to-date on my Swiss downhill skiing knowledge but I can offer an elementary viewers-guide for the upcoming festivities (obviously focusing on Americans).

Lindsey Vonn

Vonn is quickly becoming the early story of the Olympics. A heavy favorite in Alpine Skiing, Vonn injured herself last week while training and is questionable to participate in some, if not all, events. Vonn is scheduled to compete in all five events but may miss the first two events because of the injury. Unfortunately, the second of those events (Downhill) is the two most important in Alpine Skiing so hopefully Vonn is ready to go. Her biggest competition is Germany's Maria Riesch.

Bode Miller

The much-maligned Miller will try his hand once again at the Olympic games in Men's Alpine Skiing. Miller has been training by himself for the past two years and will rejoin Team USA in Vancouver. He still has the talent to the world's best Alpine skier but you have to question his mental makeup. Vancouver native Manuel Osborne-Paradis looks to take gold on February 13 in the Downhill event.

"Night Train"

The American four-man bobsled team, led by Steven Holcomb, has a legitimate chance to bring the gold medal to the States for the first time since 1948. The reigning world champions will be pushed hard by the perennial powerhouse German team.

Curling

Is curling the second most popular event at the winter Olympics behind hockey? In Canada, the answer is yes and both the men's and women's teams are favorites to take home the gold. The last two nights of the Games could be legendary in Canadian sports: Saturday is the Men's Curling final and Sunday is the Men's Hockey final.

Evan Lysacek

For years we have been asking ourselves "what would Brian Boitano do". Well, Lysacek hopes to take this saying literally in Men's Figure Skating as he aims to become the first American male to win gold since Boitano did 22 years ago. Lysacek placed fourth in Turin and won the gold medal at the 2009 world championship. Lysacek's pursuit of gold will be one of the Games biggest stories.

Kim Yu-Na

On the women's side, it appears to be South Korean Kim Yu-Na and everyone else. Yu-Na was too young to compete in 2006 but, since then, has been far and away the best female figure skater in the world. Yu-Na is projected to gain such an advantage in the short-program that no one will be able to come close.

Apolo Anton Ohno

A winner of five medals in his previous two Olympics, Ohno has a chance to become the most decorated winter athlete in U.S. history (he is one medal shy of Bonnie Blair). Ohno is probably the biggest star on the US Team. His biggest competition comes from an unlikely country. South Korea has quietly become a factory of quality winer Olympians.

Shaun White, Kelly Clark and Louie Vito

These three Americans should dominate the half-pipe events with White being the clear favorite to win Men's gold and Clark the same in the women's competition. Outside of the half-pipe, American Lindsey Jacobellis looks to win gold after her loss at Turin in which Jacobellis, well out in front of the pack, decided to celebrate with a jump and fell, costing her a gold medal.

Shani Davis

After becoming the first black athlete to win a gold medal at the winter Olympics four years ago, Davis returns to the Games with hopes of adding to his collection. Davis will be the overwhelming favorite in 1,000 and 1,500 meters but will once again not participate in the team events.

Women's Hockey

The two powerhouses of the sport, Team USA and Team Canada, are likely to meet in the gold medal game on February 25th with neither team heavily favored. Sweden, China and Finland round out the top-five in the competition.

Men's Hockey

The bottom-line is that this is the grand-daddy of Olympic sports, both summer and winter. Few sporting competitions offer such a combination of talent, intensity and excitement. In fact, outside of the Super Bowl, the World Cup and March Madness, it would be hard to find a better sporting event than hockey in the Olympics. What makes hockey so special (as opposed to say basketball) is the quality of talent from around the world. There are about ten teams that are loaded with NHL talent - not to mention the best non-NHL players. It would take too much time to look at each roster so here's a great link where you can read more. The Canadian's are the favorites and rightfully so but the Russian's, led by Alexander Ovechkin, are not far behind. The next four seeds, Sweden, Finland, Czech Republic and USA, are all capable of making a run and Team Slovakia could be a sleeper. All-in-all this sport will be must-see TV that will culminate with the Olympics' final event, the Men's Hockey gold medal game on Sunday the 28th at 3pm. It's hard to imagine the home-country team (who just so happens to be the best team as well) not taking home the gold after a disappointing seventh-place finish in Turin.

NFL - AFC North & NFC East 2010 Preview

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 18:08:00 +0000

By WAM

AFC NORTH & NFC EAST 2010 PREVIEW

Today is part three of our five-part preview of the 2010 NFL offseason. Click here for part one (NFC South & AFC West) and click here for part two (AFC South & NFC West).

AFC North (Teams will play AFC East & NFC South divisions)

Cincinnati Bengals

2009 Review: The Bengals were the most surprising story of the 2009 season. Few saw this team competing for a playoff spot let alone going 6-0 in the rugged AFC North and winning the division. Cincinnati did so behind a strong running game and an even stronger defense. The Bengals also faced some difficult off-the-field situations and were one-and-done in the playoffs. Still, 2009 has to be viewed as a successful season for Cincinnati.
2009 MVP: Head coach Marvin Lewis
Offseason Questions: When a team like the Bengals comes out of nowhere to make a playoff run, its natural to wonder if they can maintain success the following year. On-the-field, the Bengals have to figure out what is wrong with Carson Palmer. Palmer was moving up the list of top quarterbacks in the league three years ago but suddenly has looked very average (likely due to numerous injuries). Can he return to that elite level is a big storyline in Cincinnati this offseason.
Biggest Free Agents: Defensive tackle Domata Peko, defensive tackle Tank Johnson, safety Roy Williams, tight end Reggie Kelly.
2010 Upgrades: The defense is very young and talented and, once they lock-up Peko, will only have to address the safety position. The downfall of the Bengals late in the season and in the playoffs was the lack of threats in the passing game outside of Chad Ochocinco. Adding a receiver or two and a tight end is a must for the Bengals.
Draft: As I've said before, the front-end of the draft is very defensive heavy so the options will be relatively limited for the Bengals at the 21st selection. Receiver Golden Tate or one of the draft's top two tight ends (Aaron Hernandez and Jermaine Gresham) make sense for Cincinnati.
2010 Breakout Player: Former first-round pick Keith Rivers has had two solid seasons in the league and looks like he can make a big jump in year three. With a strong defensive line and fellow linebackers, Rivers could become an impact player.
Schedule: Four games with Baltimore and Pittsburgh are always difficult and playing a first-place schedule means if will be very tough for Cincinnati to repeat 2009's success. The Bengals will play Miami, New Orleans, San Diego, Atlanta, New England, the Jets and Indianapolis.

Baltimore Ravens

2009 Review: After a strong start was nullified by some sloppy losses, the Ravens benefited from a weak December schedule and made the playoffs where they annihilated the Patriots. The Colts eliminated Baltimore but back-to-back playoff appearances is great for any team.
2009 MVP: Running back Ray Rice
Offseason Questions: Safety Ed Reed has mentioned retirement so that is something to keep an eye on. Joe Flacco has been a nice surprise at quarterback but they need to surround him with some weapons - the Ravens are too one-dimensional (Rice) on offense.
Biggest Free Agents: Fullback Le'Ron McClain, tackle Jared Gaither, receiver Derrick Mason, linebacker Antwan Barnes, safety Dawan Landry.
2010 Upgrades: The Ravens have to no-brainer positions they have to address: wide receiver and cornerback. Both desperately need some youth, speed and skill. The Ravens will also look to add a kicker after a season in which that position cost them some games.
Draft: While a receiver is a huge need, there may not be one to take at 25. The Ravens may go with a tight end in that situation just to get some kind of pass-catching threat. It would not surprise me to see the Ravens make a serious run at soon-to-be ex-Bronco Brandon Marshall.
2010 Breakout Player: The middle linebacker spot next to Ray Lewis is up for grabs and undrafted rookie Dannell Ellerbe played very well down the stretch in 2009. Baltimore has a history of great linebackers and Ellerbe could be next in line, if he wins the starting job over Tavares Gooden.
Schedule: Tough games on the road at New England, the Jets and Houston pair with home games against New Orleans and Miami. This division, as always, will come down to games with Cincinnati and Pittsburgh.

Pittsburgh Steelers

2009 Review: It was a disappointing season for the defending champs as injuries and inconsistent play led to a 9-7 season. Safety Troy Polamalu missed most of the year and that injury alone may have kept the Steelers out of the playoffs. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger had a terrific season and running back Rashard Mendenhall cemented his spot as the Steelers #1 back.
2009 MVP: Roethlisberger
Offseason Questions: The pieces are in place for the Steelers to make another Super Bowl run but the offensive line has to be addressed. Roethlisberger, who has a tendency to hold onto the ball, was sacked 50 times, second most in the NFL. The defensive line needs some youth as well.
Biggest Free Agents: Running back Willie Parker, center Justin Hartwig, defensive tackle Casey Hampton, corners William Gay and Deshea Townsend, safety Ryan Clark.
2010 Upgrades: The offensive line needs a complete overhaul so expect the Steelers to sign two starters and draft another. With Willie Parker likely departing, the Steelers may add a back-up running back as well.
Draft: With the 18th pick, it is almost a guarantee the Steelers will take an offensive lineman. The team may in fact draft offensive lineman with their first two draft picks.
2010 Breakout Player: Linebacker Lawrence Timmons has developed nicely and shined last year as a starter for the first time. Timmons has the speed and strength to be a pro-bowl linebacker and will lead the team in tackles in 2010.
Schedule: Pittsburgh has a surprisingly difficult schedule for a third-place team but most of their difficult games will be played at home. Those include New England, the Jets, Atlanta and Carolina with road games against New Orleans, Tennessee and Miami.

Cleveland Browns

2009 Review: Once again, the Browns had a rough season. The Browns did, however, win their final four games and now have Mike Holmgren in charge of their personnel. The 2009 season saw the seemingly never-ending quarterback carousel continue, with neither Brady Quinn nor Derek Anderson assuming control of the position.
2009 MVP: Wide receiver/kick returned Josh Cribbs
Offseason Questions: Holmgren takes over a team in complete rebuilding mode so there is a lot of work to do. That process starts with the quarterback position. Holmgren has to decide if either Quinn or Anderson is the future and, if not, the Browns will likely explore trade options and may even draft a quarterback.
Biggest Free Agents: Running back Jerome Harrison, linebacker D'Qwell Jackson, safety Brodney Pool.
2010 Upgrades: Outside of the quarterback position, the Browns need a lot of help. The defense really lack play-makers but Holmgren is an offensive guy so he may look to build the offensive line and find some receivers.
Draft: The top-10 of the draft is looking like very few, if any, skill position players will be taken so it's hard to imagine Holmgren reaching for a receiver at this spot. The Browns will draft an offensive lineman or a defensive player they think can make an immediate impact, like cornerback Joe Haden.
2010 Breakout Player: Rookie receiver Mohamed Massaquoi had a terrific season and, with the lack of any other passing options, should increase his numbers in 2010 significantly.
Schedule: The Browns have a favorable schedule, with their two toughest non-division games (Patriots and Jets) at home. Despite the schedule, Cleveland will struggle in 2010 as they continue to rebuild.

Conference Outlook: Steelers (10-6, division winner), Ravens (9-7), Bengals (6-10), Browns (2-14)

NFC East (Teams will play AFC South & NFC North divisions)

Dallas Cowboys

2009 Review: The Cowboys looked headed for another disappointing late-season collapse but exploded in December and looked like serious contenders in the NFC. They were over-matched in Minnesota but enter the offseason in great shape after a solid year.
2009 MVP: Wide receiver Miles Austin
Offseason Questions: The Cowboys have to build off the momentum they established in the 2009 season as they are set up to make a Super Bowl run. Can Miles Austin repeat his 2009 breakout season? Can they get the kicking game fixed?
Biggest Free Agents: Austin, defensive end Marcus Spears, corner Terence Newman, safety Gerald Sensabaugh.
2010 Upgrades: The offensive line was exposed against the Vikings so priority #1 is to add to that group. Dallas also needs to find another wide receiver. Defensively, an upgrade at safety could happen and a kicker is a must.
Draft: Even though the Cowboys will select 27th overall, they will be able to get a solid offensive lineman who can start from day one. If safety Taylor Mays were available at this spot, Jerry Jones may be tempted to take him.
2010 Breakout Player: After injury ended his rookie season, running back Felix Jones was great down the stretch in 2009. Jones is one of the most explosive backs in the league and may pass Marion Barber on the depth chart. Expect big, big things from Jones in 2010.
Schedule: Dallas faces a tough road to the playoffs but they have the team to win a lot of games. Home games against Chicago and Detroit should ease the pain of a road slate that features Green Bay, Minnesota, Arizona, Houston and Indianapolis.

Philadelphia Eagles

2009 Review: If the Super Bowl were played in December, the Eagles may have well won it. Unfortunately, it was not and the Eagles were ousted in the first round of the playoffs. This scenario of peaking mid-season and falling short in the playoffs is becoming eerily consistent in Philadelphia.
2009 MVP: Wide receiver DeSean Jackson
Offseason Questions: All eyes will be on Philadelphia this offseason. Donovan McNabb is still a great quarterback but fans have grown tired of the McNabb-Andy Reid combination that has fallen short year after year. Will the Eagles trade McNabb? If they do, is Kevin Kolb ready to lead the Eagles back to the playoffs?
Biggest Free Agents: Fullback Leonard Weaver, linebacker Omar Gaither, linebacker Akeem Jordan, corner Ellis Hobbs.
2010 Upgrades: Philadelphia's offense is loaded with youth and speed and they have built a great offensive line. The safety position needs work and Philadelphia went through a half-dozen middle linebackers last season. Defense needs to be the focus of this offseason.
Draft: The first round has a few good linebacker prospects and the Eagles should have a good selection to pick from with the 24th pick. Brandon Spikes or Navorro Bowman would be welcome additions to the Eagles defense.
2010 Breakout Player: Running back LeSean McCoy took over once Brian Westbrook went down with injury and showed tons of talent. Both he and fellow rookie Jeremy Maclin should put up good numbers on an explosive offense.
Schedule: Philadelphia catches a break because they play most of their difficult games at home. These include Minnesota, Green Bay, Indianapolis, Houston and Atlanta. Road games at Chicago, Tennessee and San Francisco are not gimmes.

New York Giants

2009 Review: For most teams, an 8-8 season that ended just short of a playoff birth is a solid year. This is not the case for the Giants, however, who failed to meet high expectations. After a 6-0 start that made the Giants look like the NFL's best team, New York fell apart en route to a 2-8 finish. The talent level on this team is still very, very high.
2009 MVP: Wide receiver Steve Smith
Offseason Questions: The big difference between the 2007 and 2008 Giants and last season's team was the defense. Injuries certainly played a part but the bottom line is the group did not play well, as evidenced by their 44-7 loss at Minnesota in Week 17. Did the Giants defense become dominant because of the players or the system run by former defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo?
Biggest Free Agents: Guard Kevin Boothe, defensive tackles Barry Cofield and Fred Robbins, corner Kevin Dockery.
2010 Upgrades: Entering the 2009 season, there were a lot of questions about the Giants receiving core but the emergence of Smith, Mario Manningham and rookie Hakeem Nicks seem to have fixed this issue. On defense, the secondary was exposed last year, mostly because of injuries, but also because the team lacked the dominating pass-rush of years past. Particularly, the interior of the defensive line did not play so the Giants will try to fix this position.
Draft: Like the Steelers and Titans, the Giants are a good team that had a rough year but will benefit by getting a great draft pick to add to their already loaded roster. With the 14th pick, New York will certainly go defensive line and whether the pick is an end or tackle will depend on best available player.
2010 Breakout Player: Steve Smith was great last year as a possession receiver (107 catches, 1,220 yards). Smith should see tighter coverage and the Giants will need a deep-threat. Hakeem Nicks contributed immediately, something receivers usually do not do, and could be in for an even better sophomore season. Nicks will lead the Giants in yards per catch and touchdowns.
Schedule: As is the case with the Cowboys, the Giants have a very tough road schedule (Green Bay, Minnesota, Indianapolis and Houston) balanced with a favorable home schedule (Chicago, Detroit and Jacksonville).

Washington Redskins

2009 Review: It was another season with a similar result for the Redskins, who have had just two winning seasons since 2000. Quarterback Jason Campbell has not done enough to prove he can be a franchise guy and the offense in general lacks talent, evidenced by their 266 total points (26th in the NFL). The defense has played pretty well but they are asked to do too much. Rebuilding continues in Washington but now Mike Shanahan is in charge.
2009 MVP: Linebacker London Fletcher
Offseason Questions: Shanahan takes over a difficult situation and it starts with the staggering number of large contracts owed to under-performing players. For a team that has been bad for a while, there is not a lot of good, young talent either (with the exception of Brian Orakpo). Being an offensive coach, Shanahan's first goal will be to address the quarterback position. Does he think Jason Campbell is good enough? That question may not be as crazy as it sounds: although Campbell is behind schedule for a four-year player, he did have his best year as a pro, completing 65% of his passes and throwing for 3,618 yards. Maybe Shanahan thinks Campbell can work in his system.
Biggest Free Agents: Campbell, tackle Stephon Heyer, center Casey Rabach, linebacker Rocky McIntosh, corner Carlos Rodgers.
2010 Upgrades: Quarterback position aside, the offense needs a complete face-lift. The line is old and the receivers are too small. The secondary needs a player or two as well.
Draft: With the fourth pick in the draft, most expect Shanahan to start his tenure by drafting a franchise quarterback, presumably Oklahoma's Sam Bradford. The Redskins may feel they can draft Bradford later in the top-12 and try to move down and pick up an extra third-round pick to help fill other needs.
2010 Breakout Player: Tight end Fred Davis would be a great pick but with Chris Cooley returning from injury, his opportunities may be limited. A receiver will eventually step up and it will be either Malcolm Kelly or Devin Thomas. Both were second-round picks in 2008 and have lots of talent but I think Thomas has more upside. He could finally give the Redskins a real threat on the outside.
Schedule: The Redskins get Indianapolis, Houston, Minnesota and Green Bay at home so they have a chance to pick up some wins. This team is still too far away to expect a big turnaround, however.

Conference Outlook: Cowboys (12-4, division winner), Giants (10-6, wildcard contention), Eagles (9-7), Redskins (4-12)

Friday (2/12) - AFC East & NFC North

Friday (2/12) - Biggest Offseason Questions & Early Fantasy/Playoff Predictions

NFL - AFC South & NFC West 2010 Preview

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 18:14:00 +0000

By WAM

AFC SOUTH & NFC WEST 2010 PREVIEW

Today features part two of our five-part preview of the 2010 NFL offseason. Click here for part one (NFC South & AFC West).

AFC South (Teams will play AFC West & NFC East divisions)

Indianapolis Colts

2009 Review: For a team that lost only three games all season long, the Colts view 2009 as another disappointing season because they came up short in the Super Bowl. Peyton Manning had arguably his finest season as a pro and won an NFL-record fourth MVP trophy. Wide receivers Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie turned out to be more than adequate replacements for Marvin Harrison and the injured Anthony Gonzalez and as long as Manning is under center, the Colts are Super Bowl contenders.
2009 MVP: Manning
Offseason Questions: The Colts do not have many weaknesses. General manager Bill Polian has done a tremendous job in the draft so the Colts will not be too active in free agency, with the exception of retaining their own players. At this point, the only thing Colts fans worry about is how can this team become more consistent in the playoffs.
Biggest Free Agents: Linebacker Gary Brackett, tackle Charlie Johnson, cornerback Marlin Jackson, safety Antoine Bethea.
2010 Upgrades: There are two areas where this team was solid but unspectacular last season: offensive line and secondary. The secondary would get a tremendous boost if Bob Sanders could stay healthy and the offensive line was relatively young but both need an influx of new talent. It would not surprise me to see Polian add some depth on the defensive line as well.
Draft: With the success Polian has had in recent years, the Colts will likely find an immediate contributor with the 31st selection. They will take an offensive lineman or defensive lineman; it just depends on who is rated highest on their board.
2010 Breakout Player: Garcon had 765 receiving yards in 2009 on just 47 catches and the latter should greatly increase in 2010 after his playoff performance. Garcon is the most likely breakout player on a team filled with stars.
Schedule: The Colts are used to playing a first-place schedule - they have done so six of the past seven seasons. With the exception of games at Philadelphia and New England, the road schedule is fairly light while the Colts' home games (Dallas, San Diego, New York Giants, Cincinnati) will be far more challenging.

Houston Texans

2009 Review: The 2009 season looked like the year the Texans would finally break-through and reach the playoffs for the first time in franchise history. But three straight losses in late-November left the Texans at 5-7. They responded with a four-game winning streak to end the season (and finish above .500 for the first time) but once again were done playing football in Week 17.
2009 MVP: Quarterback Matt Schaub
Offseason Questions: Head coach Gary Kubiak's future with the team is no longer in question but this is a franchise that needs to take the next step. Schaub has become a franchise quarterback, Andre Johnson is the league's best receiver in my opinion and the defense has some good, young talent, led by linebackers DeMeco Ryans and reigning defensive rookie of the year Brian Cushing. Can the Texans make the right moves to finally make the playoffs?
Biggest Free Agents: Ryans, receiver Kevin Walter, tight end Owen Daniels, cornerback Dunta Robinson, safety Bernard Pollard.
2010 Upgrades: There are a few areas on this roster that need some work, particularly the defensive line and the secondary. Cushing showed he could be a solid pass-rusher from the linebacker spot but if I'm running the show, my #1 priority is finding an edge-rusher to pair with former No. 1 overall pick Mario Williams. And don't be surprised to see the Texans bring in a veteran running back (Ladainian Tomlinson?) to help solidify the position.
Draft: The 20th pick could go any number of ways but it's safe to say they will pick a defensive player (unless a good offensive lineman falls). Safety Taylor Mays, cornerback Kyle Wilson or defensive end Everson Griffen would all be welcome additions.
2010 Breakout Player: Defensive tackle Amobi Okoye has been in the league for three years but is still only 22 years old. Finally living up to his first-round potential would give the Texans an enormous boost.
Schedule: Simply put, brutal. Two games each with the Colts, Jaguars and Titans are always tough. Add in contests with the Chargers, Ravens, Cowboys, Giants, Jets, Broncos and Eagles and the Texans face one of the toughest schedules in the league.

Tennessee Titans

2009 Review: The Titans, fresh off a 13-3 2008 campaign, started 2009 0-6 but returned from their bye week to finish the season 8-2 and made one of the most dramatic playoff-pushes of all-time. In the end, they fell short but Tennessee showed a lot of heart and talent late in the season.
2009 MVP: Running back Chris Johnson
Offseason Questions: Quarterback Vince Young's status as a NFL starter has been one of the biggest issues in the league for the last few seasons. Young proved many of his doubters wrong when he returned to the starting lineup and led his team to an 8-2 record last year. 2010 will be his year from day one and this team will go as far as Young can take them.
Biggest Free Agents: Running back LenDale White, tight end Alge Crumpler, center Kevin Mawae, defensive tackle Tony Brown, defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch, linebacker Keith Bulluck, linebacker Stephen Tulloch, cornerback Nick Harper.
2010 Upgrades: Wide receiver has been a weak-spot of this team for several years but they appear to figured it out with the additions of Kenny Britt and Nate Washington. The Titans are built around defensive line play and that group needs some new, young talent.
Draft: With the 17th pick, the Titans will have a good chance to land one of the draft's top pass-rushers and should not hesitate to do so.
2010 Breakout Player: Britt exceeded expectations as a rookie, particularly once Young became quarterback. The 6'3" receiver is very fast for his size and should be the teams first 1,000 yard receiver since 2004.
Schedule: Tough road games at San Diego, Miami, Dallas and the Giants compliment a home slate that features the Steelers, Eagles and Broncos. Every year we see a team that was not very good the year before surprise the league and make a playoff run. Maybe the Titans got an early jump on that process in 2009, but right now they are my pick for a big turnaround in 2010.

Jacksonville Jaguars

2009 Review: The Jaguars looked like a fringe playoff team midway through 2009 but they fell apart, finishing the season with losses in four of their last five games. Running back Maurice Jones-Drew continues to be a dominating player on an otherwise average team.
2009 MVP: Jones-Drew
Offseason Questions: If the Carolina Panthers have the most important on-the-field offseason of any team, the Jaguars are running-away with the title of most important off-the-field offseason. Simply put, Jacksonville is in serious danger of having to relocate. The Jaguars have to figure out a way to get Jacksonville's football fans excited about this team.
Biggest Free Agents: Linebacker Clint Ingram, defensive end Reggie Hayward.
2010 Upgrades: The Jaguars need to get more explosive on offense and have to get a weapon or two - they are too reliant on Jones-Drew. Defensively, their 25 takeaways ranked in the bottom third of the league and their 14 sacks were eight fewer than any other team in the NFL. Either way, they have to add players who will get fans talking and wanting to come to games.
Draft: The best thing the Jaguars can do to stay in Jacksonville is win and they have to upgrade their pass-rush if they want to do that more consistently. Luckily, this draft is very deep in defensive ends so the Jaguars will have the pick of the litter at nine or 10 (coin toss to determine pick).
2010 Breakout Player: Tight end Marcedes Lewis has real talent but has yet to deliver in his first four seasons. At 25, this will be a make-or-break year for Lewis and the Jaguars would be wise to give him ample opportunities to prove himself.
Schedule: On the road at San Diego, Dallas and the Giants will be tough but the AFC South comes down to divisional games. If the Jaguars cannot find a way to beat Tennessee, Houston and Indianapolis, they may be playing in Los Angeles in 2012.

Conference Outlook: Colts (13-3, first-round bye), Titans (11-5, wildcard), Texans (8-8), Jaguars (5-11)

NFC West (Teams will play AFC West & NFC South divisions)

Arizona Cardinals

2009 Review: After coming within minutes of winning the Super Bowl two years ago, the Cardinals entered 2009 with high expectations but were plagued by inconsistency. Arizona finished 10-6 and won a playoff game before getting blown-out by the eventual Super Bowl champions.
2009 MVP: Quarterback Kurt Warner
Offseason Questions: The 38-year-old Warner turned the Cardinals into title contenders the last two seasons but has retired, leaving former first-round pick Matt Leinart as the teams' starting quarterback. Either Leinart is ready to be an NFL quarterback or the Cardinals 2010 season will be a struggle.
Biggest Free Agents: Linebacker Karlos Dansby, receiver Steve Breaston, center Lyle Sendlein, linebacker Chike Okeafor.
2010 Upgrades: With Warner out of the picture, the Cardinals want to become a more balanced team offensively. Running back Beanie Wells looks like a steal as last year's 31st pick but the offensive line will need to be improved if they want to run more. Dansby should receive a huge pay-day and Arizona needs to add some youth and speed to the rest of the linebacking core.
Draft: The 26th pick should be a game-time decision for the Cardinals. A highly-rated offensive lineman makes sense, as does a front-seven player on defense. Expect Arizona to get the highest value they can with this pick out of those two areas.
2010 Breakout Player: Wells is a logical choice and I'm not willing to gamble on Leinart. I predict Arizona will move Anquan Boldin this offseason, which opens the door for one of their young receivers to step-up. Early Doucet showed some real talent in the playoffs and, if Boldin is gone, Doucet could have a monster season.
Schedule: If Arizona wants to make the playoffs for a third straight season, they will have to win on the road - something they have excelled at in recent years. They travel to play Atlanta, Carolina, Minnesota and San Diego and have home games with New Orleans and Dallas.

San Francisco 49ers

2009 Review: The Niners have been down for several years but 2009 was a huge step in the right direction. After a fast 3-1 start, San Francisco lost four straight but ended the season on a high-note, winning four of their last six games. Quarterback Alex Smith played well enough at times to give Niners' fans some hope entering next season.
2009 MVP: Tight end Vernon Davis (honorable mention to Frank Gore)
Offseason Questions: Head coach Mike Singletary and general manager Scot McCloughan have put together a good, young team. There is talent at every level but the quarterback position is still in question. Smith was decent in his first real playing-time since 2007 but is he the quarterback of the future?
Biggest Free Agents: Defensive tackle Aubrayo Franklin, linebacker Ahmad Brooks, offensive lineman David Baas, Tony Pashos and Barry Sims.
2010 Upgrades: With building blocks all over the field, the Niners must compliment this talent with a combination of veterans and youth. Particularly, the offensive line and secondary need work.
Draft: The Niners have two first-round picks in a very good draft and both picks are in the top-16. They will probably go offensive line and secondary but, with a team like Philadelphia rostering two starting quarterbacks, they could use one of these picks to trade for a guy like Kevin Kolb.
2010 Breakout Player: In my mind, this is the biggest no-brainer in the NFL. Receiver Michael Crabtree was a draft-day gift last year and, once he got on the field, showed why he is an elite talent. In 11 games, Crabtree caught 48 passes for 625 yards and two touchdowns. Depending on the quarterback situation, Crabtree could be a top-five receiver next season.
Schedule: If the Niners can go 4-0 against Seattle and St. Louis, they can make the playoffs for the first time since 2002. They face New Orleans and Philadelphia in San Francisco and travel to play Atlanta, Carolina, Green Bay and San Diego.

Seattle Seahawks

2009 Review: For the second straight season, the Seahawks looked old and slow and struggled to compete. The bottom fell out with a 24-7 loss at home against the lowly Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck is old and they are still looking for a running back to replace Shaun Alexander, who left Seattle in 2007. Enter coach Pete Carroll.
2009 MVP: Linebacker David Hawthorne
Offseason Questions: Carroll last coached in the NFL in 2000 but is ready to try his hand again at the Sunday version after unparalleled success at USC. As is the case for most new coaches, there is a lot of work to be done. Carroll's skills will be tested as he tries to overall this aging roster.
Biggest Free Agents: Receiver Nate Burleson, defensive end Darryl Tapp, fullback Justin Griffith, kicker Olindo Mare.
2010 Upgrades: Not to beat a dead horse but the Seahawks have to get younger and must do so at virtually every position. The offensive line needs to be completely re-worked and Carroll must decide if Justin Forsett can be a lead-back in the NFL. Defensively, Seattle needs play-makers at every position and have to improve a pass-rush that ranked 26th in the league a year ago.
Draft: Like their division rivals from San Francisco, the Seahawks have two first-round draft picks within the top 14. If Carroll is going to turn this franchise around, it all starts with two "hits" this year. With the sixth pick, Seattle will probably draft a defensive lineman and could hit the jackpot at 14 if running back C.J. Spiller is available, as predicted by several mock drafts.
2010 Breakout Player: The Seahawks defense has some solid candidates, starting with Aaron Curry who had a somewhat disappointing rookie season. Hawthorne is one of the most underrated players in the league as well. But my choice is defensive end Lawrence Jackson, who played for Carroll at USC. Jackson has big-time talent and showed signs of improvement with 4.5 sacks last year. That number should increase in year three for Jackson.
Schedule: With non-divisional road games at New Orleans, Chicago, Tampa Bay, Oakland and Denver, the Seahawks should be able to get to six wins. In the end, Seattle is rebuilding and expectations will not be very high in 2010.

St. Louis Rams

2009 Review: It has been an ugly five-year run for the Rams low-lighted by a one-win 2009 season that placed them in last place in the NFC West for the third straight year. The only highlight of the season was a seven point win at two-win Detroit in Week 8.
2009 MVP: Running back Steven Jackson
Offseason Questions: The Rams pinned their future on Marc Bulger and he has played behind a dreadful offensive line, has gotten hurt and just played poorly. Normally a team in this situation would take a quarterback with the #1 overall pick but there is not a player to justify the pick. St. Louis will have to wait to figure out the quarterback situation.
Biggest Free Agents: Safety Oshiomogho Atogwe, tackle Alex Barron, tight end Randy McMichael, defensive end Leonard Little.
2010 Upgrades: If head coach Steve Spagnuolo is content on giving Marc Bulger (or Kyle Boller for that matter) another chance to prove himself, he has to shore up the offensive line. The Rams ranked 25th in sacks allowed last season and the defense was not much better, ranking 30th in sacks. The 436 points they allowed was second worst in the NFL as well.
Draft: Although there is not a quarterback for the Rams to draft, they get a nice consolation prize in dominating defensive lineman Ndamukong Suh. Suh is the consensus #1 pick and is a fierce player against both the run and the pass. Given Spagnuolo's success with defensive lineman in New York, Suh should excel as a Ram and be one of the league's best players' for years to come.
2010 Breakout Player: Chris Long has not the impact the Rams thought he would when they selected him second overall in the 2008 draft. The addition of Suh should open-up more one-on-one situations for Long and, with another year of coaching from Spagnuolo, Long could double his five sacks from 2009.
Schedule: The Rams play a last-place schedule with games against Tampa Bay, Oakland, Kansas City and Washington. Unfortunately, given the many holes on this team, their rematch with Detroit may once again determine who gets the first pick in the 2011 draft.

Conference Outlook: 49ers (10-6, division winner), Cardinals (8-8), Seahawks (6-10), Rams (0-16)

Thursday (2/11) - AFC North & NFC East

Friday (2/12) - AFC East & NFC North

Friday (2/12) - Biggest Offseason Questions & Early Fantasy/Playoff Predictions

NFL - NFC South & AFC West 2010 Preview

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 20:53:00 +0000

By Willie Mullen

NFC South & AFC West 2010 Preview

As is always the case in professional sports, it's never too early to look ahead to next season. A lot will change between now and training camp and the ongoing labor negotiations make this offseason even more unpredictable. For the sake of this preview, we will operate under the assumption that there will be no salary cap next year. In its simplest form, this means players with four-year's experience (who would normally be unrestricted free agents) are restricted free agents, allowing their current teams the opportunity to match any contract offers. Additionally, players with six-year tenures are unrestricted free agents. Here is part one of a five-part preview of the 2010-2011 NFL season.

NFC South (Teams will play AFC North & NFC West divisions)

New Orleans Saints

2009 Review: What a year it was for the Saints. They started the season with 13 wins, locked up home-field advantage in the NFC and pulled off a fairly big upset in the Super Bowl to win the first championship in the franchises' 43 year history. Quarterback Drew Brees ascended to the top echelon of NFL signal-callers, joining Tom Brady and Peyton Manning, and Sean Payton established himself as an elite head coach after a marvelous performance in the Super Bowl.
2009 MVP: Brees (safety Darren Sharper was a very close second)
Offseason Questions: The biggest issue facing the Saints is the well-documented "disease of more". When teams win championships, players up-and-down the roster look for pay increases, a bigger role or simply become complaisant so the Saints have to handle these inevitable situations delicately.
Biggest Free Agents: Sharper, safety Roman Harper, running back Pierre Thomas, guard Jahri Evans, tackle Jammal Brown, tackle Jermon Bushrod, linebacker Scott Fujita.
2010 Upgrades: This is a young team that just won the Super Bowl so the Saints have very few weak spots. They will look to upgrade their pass-rush with a defensive end and could look to get faster on defense at outside linebacker.
Draft: This is a very, very deep draft so the Saints should get a good player at #32. A defensive end or linebacker will be the pick.
2010 Breakout Player: 2009 first round pick Malcolm Jenkins struggled at times this season but really played well in the playoffs. He had the best game of his young career in the Super Bowl and looks poised to make a big jump in year two.
Schedule: Nothing is more important to NFL parody than scheduling and the Saints will face fellow NFC division winners Arizona, Minnesota and Dallas in addition to a difficult AFC North division. Carolina and Atlanta make for four tough division games as well. The Saints will also try to become the first team to win back-to-back NFC South titles in the eight-year history of the division.

Atlanta Falcons

2009 Review: It was an up-and-down year for the Falcons as injuries to quarterback Matt Ryan and running back Michael Turner crushed their hopes of making the playoffs for a second straight year. Tight end Tony Gonzalez was a great addition.
2009 MVP: Wide receiver Roddy White
Offseason Questions: The Falcons had high expectations entering last season after a surprising playoff appearance but proved to be a team that overachieved in 2008 and needs some work to become a serious contender. Specifically, the defense has holes and desperately needs to add a play-maker. Turner struggled last season, even before his was injured, and needs to return to elite form.
Biggest Free Agents: Running back Jerious Norwood, guard Harvey Dahl, tackle Tyson Clabo, running back Jason Snelling.
2010 Upgrades: This offseason will be all about defense in Atlanta where the Falcons need help at every level. There are some good pieces on the defensive line and linebacker Curtis Lofton has been terrific in the middle but the secondary needs a lot of work.
Draft: Atlanta cannot wait for the draft because it will be filled with big-time defensive prospects. An interesting name here is USC safety Taylor Mays. Mays looked like a sure-fire top five pick last year but had a disappointing season and is free-falling down draft boards. If the Falcons like Mays, he could be the play-maker in the secondary they desperately need.
2010 Breakout Player: Defensive end Jamaal Anderson has been a huge bust and may be relegated to a back-up role if the Falcons add one or two pass-rushers. But Anderson is only 24 and could still become an impact player. This is more of a make-or-break selection on a team with few breakout candidates.
Schedule: Outside of pre-set division opponents, the Falcons will play second-place NFC teams (Green Bay, San Francisco, Philadelphia).

Carolina Panthers

2009 Review: A year after a 12-4 record that resulted in a first-round bye in the playoffs, the Panthers struggled mightily last year, posting a 5-8 record before finally winning three straight games to end the season. Overall, it was a disappointing season for Carolina.
2009 MVP: Running back Jonathan Stewart
Offseason Questions: General manager Marty Hurney faces the most important and difficult offseason of any team in the NFL. Defensive end Julius Peppers is a free agent and the team must decide if he is in their long-term plans. Quarterback Jake Delhomme is signed through 2014 and proved that he is not a franchise player anymore. To make matters worse, the Panthers do not have a first-round draft pick.
Biggest Free Agents: Peppers, cornerback Richard Marshall, wide receiver Mushin Muhammad.
2010 Upgrades: Carolina's defense was in the top-third of the NFL is most statistics last year with the exception of their run defense, which was largely because of injuries. The offense features one of the league's best lines and the NFL's top 1-2 running back combination in Stewart and DeAngelo Williams. They need another receiver to pair with Steve Smith but nothing is more important than figuring out the quarterback position. What the Panthers do with Jake Delhomme (give him another year, trade him, cut him, bench him) is one of the top questions this offseason.
Draft: San Francisco owns the Panthers first-round pick so immediate help may not be on the way. But with what looks like two of the ten best running backs in the league on their roster, Carolina may decide to trade one (Williams) in exchange for a first-round pick. The Seahawks (two first-round picks) and the Patriots (five picks in first three rounds) could be trade partners.
2010 Breakout Player: Stewart broke-out last season and, if he is the featured back, could be even better in 2010. Behind a great offensive line and with more carries, Stewart could be a 1,500 yard, 15 touchdown running back.
Schedule: Carolina will play the Bears and the Giants are a result of their 2009 season but the four games against Atlanta and New Orleans will dictate how their season turns out.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

2009 Review: Two of the Bucs three wins were against NFC playoff teams and they finished a dreadful season with two wins in their final three games. Quarterback Josh Freeman stepped in as starter during the final nine games and the 2009 first-round pick showed some promise in an otherwise forgettable year.
2009 MVP: Cornerback Aqib Talib
Offseason Questions: Tampa Bay is in a full-scale rebuilding mode but getting a starting quarterback last year may help speed-up this process. There are some young pieces to like on the roster and they have to continue to add talent if they want to compete in the difficult NFC South.
Biggest Free Agents: Running back Cadillac Williams, wide receiver Antonio Bryant, tackle Jeremy Trueblood, linebacker Barrett Ruud.
2010 Upgrades: Obviously a 3-13 team needs help at a lot of positions. Offensively, they need to surround Freeman with some weapons and a receiver tops that list. Tight end Kellen Winslow led the team with 77 catches but next best was Bryant with just 39. The defense needs a pass-rusher as Stylez White's six and a half sacks led the team.
Draft: With the third pick, the Bucs are in a good position to land an elite defensive prospect. The organization and fans alike would be doing back-flips if all-world safety Eric Berry were available at this spot (as he's projected to be).
2010 Breakout Player: I see Berry as a future All-Pro caliber player so, if he is the pick, Berry will make an immediate impact and is my favorite for defensive rookie of the year.
Schedule: The Redskins and Lions will play Tampa Bay and games against Seattle, St. Louis and Cleveland should mean more than three victories for the Bucs. But this team is still a few years away from being any sort of threat.

Conference Outlook: Saints (12-4, first-round bye), Falcons (10-6, wildcard), Panthers (7-9), Buccaneers (4-12)

AFC West (Teams will play AFC South & NFC West divisions)

San Diego Chargers

2009 Review: It's hard to call a 13-3 season a disappoint but that's exactly what the 2009 season was for the Chargers. San Diego was great during the regular season and looked poised to make a Super Bowl run but once again fell short in the playoffs, losing to the Jets in their first game.
2009 MVP: Quarterback Philip Rivers
Offseason Questions: The Chargers will have to make big decisions on two guys who have been key franchise players for the better part of the last 10 years, linebacker Shawne Merriman and running back Ladainian Tomlinson. Both will probably be on the move.
Biggest Free Agents: Merriman, wide receiver Vincent Jackson, tackle Marcus McNeill, wide receiver Malcolm Floyd.
2010 Upgrades: 13-win teams usually do not have many needs and the Chargers are no different. They have to figure out the running back position and expect San Diego to bring in a safety.
Draft: Unfortunately for the Chargers, this draft lacks offensive weapons and the elite guys will be gone by the 28th pick. Once Tomlinson is moved, this selection becomes a no-brainer: the Chargers will take the running back with the highest rating who is still on the board. Interesting scenario: San Diego trades Tomlinson and the 28th pick to move up and select the draft's most explosive running back, CJ Spiller.
2010 Breakout Player: 2009 first-round pick Larry English. English is a prototypical 3-4 pass-rushing outside linebacker and, with Merriman's departure, he could be a double-digit sack man for the next five years.
Schedule: Playing the NFC West, in addition to four games against the Chiefs and Raiders, makes the Chargers a candidate for the NFL's best record. Even with difficult games against the Colts, Patriots, Titans, Texans and Bengals, the Chargers will battle for home-field advantage in the AFC.

Denver Broncos

2009 Review: 2009 was a tale of two seasons for the Broncos. After a surprising 6-0 start to their year, the Broncos fell and fell hard, finishing the year 2-8 and missing the playoffs. All in all, it was a better than good year for first-year head coach Josh McDaniels.
2009 MVP: Linebacker Elvis Dumervil
Offseason Questions: After the great start, the Broncos quickly found out that Kyle Orton, although a serviceable option, is not a franchise quarterback but he will have next year to prove himself once and for all. Star wide receiver Brandon Marshall is one of the best in the league but is he worth all the headaches, even after a 100 catch, 1,100 yard, 10 touchdown season?
Biggest Free Agents: Dumervil, Marshall, Orton, center Casey Wiegmann, tight end Tony Scheffler.
2010 Upgrades: The difference between the 6-0 Broncos and the 2-8 version was the play of their defense. Dumervil is a star but the secondary, although very solid, is old and lacks speed. Even though there is not a premium on line-play in the 3-4 alignment, the Broncos could use some help at defensive tackle and end.
Draft: The Broncos own the Chicago Bears first-round pick from the Jay Cutler trade and that pick will either be the ninth or tenth selection, depending on a coin-toss. If Marshall is let go (and it appears he will be), they will need a receiver and Dez Bryant would be a great replacement. If Marshall somehow stays, the Broncos will go defense with the pick. That could mean any number of possibilities: safety Earl Thomas, linebacker Roland McClain or one of the numerous first-round d-linemen.
Schedule: The Broncos will face the Jets, Ravens and Texans thanks to their second-place finish. The Colts and Titans are difficult match-ups as well. But Denver has a favorable home schedule so another eight win season is well within reach.

Oakland Raiders

2009 Review: It was business as usual in Oakland during the 2009 season with poor draft picks, worse play and bizarre coaching issues. The Raiders finished 5-11 and have gone 29-83 since losing Super Bowl XXXVII in January of 2003. Three different quarterbacks saw significant playing time yet the team still does not have a capable man under center.
2009 MVP: Punter Shane Lechler
Offseason Questions: With head coach Tom Cable's job apparently safe next season, the attention shifts to the product on the field. There is a lot of work to be done with this team and it comes as no surprise that it all starts with the quarterback. JaMarcus Russell would have to pull off one of the greatest career turnarounds in league history to not be considered a bust and neither Bruce Gradkowski or Charlie Frye is the long-term solution. The Raiders will be looking for a quarterback and there are some options out there: Chad Pennington, Jason Campbell and Michael Vick should draw interest from Oakland. Until they get the quarterback situation figured out, the other holes on this team will have to wait.
Biggest Free Agents: Tackle Khalif Barnes, defensive end Richard Seymour, linebacker Thomas Howard, linebacker Kirk Morrison, kicker Sebastian Janikowski.
2010 Upgrades: Quarterback position aside, the Raiders need help on the offensive line and could use an influx of talent on defense, particularly in the linebacking core. But for the Raiders to turn the corner, they need their last two first-round picks, running back Darren McFadden and wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey, to live up to their potential.
Draft: For all the problems this organization has, the draft is core issue plaguing the franchise. Heyward-Bey, McFadden and Russell were top-10 picks the last three years and have yet to pan out. Safety Michael Huff, the next on the Raiders' draft list, has been up-and-down, mostly down. The major mock drafts have the Raiders going offensive line with the eight pick but you have a better chance of winning the lottery than guessing who Al Davis will select.
2010 Breakout Player: There are probably 10 players on this roster that are very skilled and under-performing but no one fits this mold better than McFadden. With improved quarterback play (an "if") and an improved ability to hold onto the football (a bigger "if"), McFadden could become the explosive running/pass-catching threat he was drafted to be.
Schedule: When you are this dysfunctional, you cannot afford to worry about the schedule. But just to make matters worse, the Raiders play road games at Pittsburgh, Tennessee, Jacksonville, Arizona and San Francisco, in addition to division rivals San Diego and Denver. Indianapolis, Houston and Miami at home do not help the cause either.

Kansas City Chiefs

2009 Review: The Chiefs were over-matched all season long because of a bad offensive line and a defense that lacks talent. Quarterback Matt Cassel struggled in his first season as a starter in the NFL but is a nice option at the position going forward. Running back Jamaal Charles really exploded once he became the lead-back, rushing for 1,120 yards on 5.9 yards per carry, and receiver Chris Chambers provided a nice boost midway through the season.
2009 MVP: Charles
Offseason Questions: With only two playoff appearances (and zero wins) since 1998, the Chiefs have been in rebuilding mode for quite some time and need to start making some noise. The jury is still out on Todd Haley as a head coach but general manager Scott Pioli is considered one of the league's best personnel talents.
Biggest Free Agents: Chambers, tight end Sean Ryan, linebacker Derrick Johnson.
2010 Upgrades: The focus in Kansas City has been on defense for the last six years but there are still big holes that need to be filled. Cornerbacks Brandon Flowers and Brandon Carr are developing nicely and the Chiefs need a few more play-makers like these two to really improve. Offensively, Cassel, Charles and receiver Dwayne Bowe are solid players so the offensive line will be the focus this offseason.
Draft: Four of the last six first-round picks for the Chiefs have been defensive players so it does not make sense for them to go back to that side of the ball with the fifth pick. An offensive lineman is the obvious choice. If Eric Berry were available for Kansas City, they would have an interesting choice to make.
2010 Breakout Player: In the last eight games of the season, Charles compiled 968 rushing yards, 158 receiving yards, 365 return yards and nine total touchdowns. A full 16-game season as the featured back should result in huge numbers for Charles.
Schedule: Besides road games at Indianapolis, Houston, San Diego and Denver, the Chiefs have a favorable schedule with more difficult games at home. With a good offseason and draft, the Chiefs could move out of the bottom of the AFC West for the first time since 2007.

Conference Outlook: Chargers (12-4, first-round bye contention), Broncos (7-9), Chiefs (5-11), Raiders (2-14)

Wednesday (2/10) - AFC South & NFC West

Thursday (2/11) - AFC North & NFC East

Friday (2/11) - AFC East & NFC North

Friday (2/11) - Biggest Offseason Questions & Early Fantasy/Playoff Predictions

The Breakfast Blend...the best part of waking up

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:35:00 +0000

By Willie Mullen

Super Bowl XLIV, Drew Brees, Sean Payton and the Colts

Here's my take on this morning's headlines:

For the first time in franchise history, the New Orleans Saints are Super Bowl champions after yesterday's 31-17 win over the Indianapolis Colts. The underdog Saints were simply the better team last night and perfectly executed an "upset" gameplan. They did not turn the ball over, they made gutsy play-calls at crucial moments and, as the game went on, momentum shifted more and more to their side of the field. No play was more important to the outcome of this game than the Saints' decision to onside kick to start the second half (more on this later) and Tracy Porter's interception return for a touchdown with just over three minutes to go sealed the game. After the game, several of us were talking and we all wondered just exactly how the Saints won this game. Looking at the box score, turnover margin is the only stat that has a real difference. And although it says Colts 1 - Saints 0, in actuality the Colts had three turnovers: Porter's interception, the onside kick and Matt Stover's missed field goal early in the fourth quarter. There were a few other important plays I will mention later but what amounts to a +3 turnover advantage for the Saints was the key to the game. Turnovers are the great equalizer and the team that has won the turnover battle is now 32-3 in the Super Bowl. It also helped that the Saints had Drew Brees playing quarterback.

Brees was named the Super Bowl MVP after completing 32 passes (tying a SB record) for 288 yards and two touchdowns. After a first quarter in which Brees and his teammates looked a little nervous and out of sync and found themselves facing a 10-0 deficit, the all-world quarterback was spectacular. Behind an offensive line that allowed Brees more than enough time to find open receivers, Brees meticulously marched the Saints up-and-down the field. Clearly the Saints offense (that made a living off of big-plays all season) wanted to shorten the game by calling short routes and moving the ball six to ten yards at a time. Yesterday was the ultimate redemption for Brees. After the 2005 season, and coming off of shoulder surgery, Brees was a free agent and received interest from two teams: the Saints and the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins medical reports raised some questions so Brees signed with the only team that offered him a contract. Since then, Brees has been selected to three Pro-Bowl's and is now a Super Bowl MVP. I'm willing to bet that 25 or so teams would like a do-over.

If such a thing were possible, Saints head coach Sean Payton should have won the MVP of yesterday's game. Payton arrived in New Orleans the same year as Brees and has proved to be a great coach but his performance in the Super Bowl was one for the ages. There were two plays that really stood out to me and the first was the decision to go for a touchdown late in the second half on fourth down. Although the Saints did not score, this play proved to be a great snapshot of Payton's belief in his team. This was also the case with the onside kick. It was a gutsy call but one that will live in Saints and Super Bowl history forever. The game was won on that play in my opinion. Payton was also responsible for bringing in defensive coordinator Gregg Williams and that decision paid huge dividends all year long. Williams was able to limit Peyton Manning throughout the game and his ball-hawking philosophy allowed Porter to jump Manning's throw and return the ball for the game-clinching touchdown. From the offensive and defensive gameplan's to timely decisions, Payton and his coaching staff put together one of the greatest coaching performances in Super Bowl history.

As for the Colts, the game just did not play out in their favor after the first quarter. They could not stop the Saints from extending drives and they had some uncharacteristic mistakes on offense. Manning was very good but he was outplayed by Brees. Joseph Addai had a terrific game but they got nothing from Reggie Wayne. Dwight Freeney's injured ankle was a big factor in the second half and the secondary really struggled. Again, there were a few plays that really stood out and all three occurred on third down. The first was the failed third and one attempt late in the first half that allowed the Saints to score three points and gain the momentum before halftime. Pierre Garcon had a big drop on a third down that looked like it could be a big play and I have to question the decision to run the ball on third and goal with just over one minute to go. I would also point out the decision to try a 51-yard field goal instead of punting the ball deep and playing field position as a questionable move. All-in-all it was not a good night for Jim Caldwell. What's worse is that now the question of resting starters at the end of the season will not go away, much to my chagrin.

Some other quick thoughts:

Reggie Wayne was either hurt (odds-on favorite) or had the worst game of his career
Saints left tackle Jermon Bushrod was headed for the doghouse before Freeney's ankle prevented him from being a factor
If Brees and Payton are MVPs one and two, Saints linebacker Jonathan Vilma was number three, making tackles all over the field and getting great depth in zone coverage protecting the middle of the field - just an awesome game by Vilma
The Saints have found a niche of taking players no one wants and it is working: Brees, Vilma, Jeremy Shockey, Pierre Thomas, Marques Colston and Darren Sharper were all major pieces to this championship run
Garrett Hartley had a great game (3-3, all over 40 yards) and had a great playoff performance
The Saints defense faced three Hall-of-Fame-bound quarterbacks in a row (Kurt Warner, Brett Favre, Manning) and more than held their own with four interceptions and just two touchdowns allowed
Saints rookie punter Thomas Morstead, who also handles kickoff duties, never tried an onside kick until yesterday and did not even practice them until 12 days ago
Joseph Addai really had a great game and I don't know if the Colts needed to draft Donald Brown last year
If I had told you the Saints would win by two touchdowns, you would have assumed Reggie Bush had an impact but that was not the case (in a related note, where was Kim Kardashian?)
For two explosive offenses like these, it's hard to believe the longest offensive touchdown was 19 yards
Instead of basing the decision on the "home team", fans should be able to vote for the uniform combination at the Super Bowl - The Saints black jerseys and the Colts white jerseys are the better of the two and we got the exact opposite
Mardi Gras is in eight days and I fully expect the party that started last night to continue until then

NFL - Super Bowl XLIV Preview & Pick

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 16:15:00 +0000

By Willie Mullen

Super Bowl XLIV Preview

New Orleans Saints (15-3) @ Indianapolis Colts -5 (16-2)

Saints: New Orleans is just over 50 hours away from playing in their first Super Bowl in franchise history. Since Hurricane Katrina, this moment has felt like destiny for the once downtrodden 'Aints, and it all began with the hiring of coach Sean Payton and the signing of free agent quarterback Drew Brees. Led by these two, the Saints have become a vehicle of hope for the city of New Orleans and Sunday has a chance to be one of the greatest collisions of life and sports in history. If the Saints were to win, the party on Bourbon Street may never stop. On the field, New Orleans was outplayed by the Vikings in the NFC title game but somehow they found a way to win. Watching that game (and several others throughout the year) and as I said on December 8th, this season feels like the Year of the Saints.

Colts: Despite losing a Hall-of-Fame coach and a future Hall-of-Fame wide receiver, the Colts posted the best regular season record in the NFL and are favorites to win their second Super Bowl in four years. The defense is as good as it has been in the last 10 years and unknown players like Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie have risen to the occasion to become vital weapons on offense. But make no mistake about it, Indianapolis will play for a title on Sunday because of Peyton Manning. Manning is coming off perhaps his greatest game and that is saying something considering his never-ending list of accomplishments. A win on Sunday will cement Manning's place as the greatest quarterback in NFL history, in my opinion.

Preview: For the first time since 1993, the two #1 seeds have advanced to the Super Bowl and the Saints and Colts have been in first place in their conference's virtually all season long. Both teams feature high-octane offenses that score early, often and quickly. In fact, the over/under (56.5) is the highest in Super Bowl history so expect both teams to go up-and-down the field with regularity. Both Manning and Brees excel at taking what the defense gives them and will spread the ball around to their various targets with unmatched precision. Defensively, the Colts and Saints have differing philosophies. Indianapolis relies heavily on a four-man pass rush and a bend-but-don't-break style. The speed of the Colts defense is difficult to match and they particularly excel inside the red-zone, frequently holding teams to three points instead of seven. The Saints, meanwhile, are a blitzing team that takes more chances for turnovers while exposing themselves to some big plays. Throughout the season, New Orleans has successfully executed this plan but they will need to have their best game on Sunday if they want to win.

Coaching: As a play-caller, Sean Payton is as good as it gets and his offense has so many play-makers that he should find some beneficial mismatches. Colts coach Jim Caldwell has proven to be a great decision-maker and time-manager and trusts his assistant coaches more than any other coach in the league. Manning is a coach on the field while Brees is his teams emotional leader. Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams is the coach who will decide the outcome of this game in my opinion. Right now, coaching is a push until we see how Williams responds.

Key Matchup: The obvious choice is Williams vs. Manning. Williams was not shy about his gameplan, saying he wants his team to bring the heat and hit Manning hard. Manning faced the league's best defense (and it's best defensive mind) last week and shredded the Jets by adjusting to their complicated blitz packages and making quick, good decisions. After hearing Williams' comments, expect Manning to go out and make a statement on the field. If they win, I'm sure Peyton will make a small comment about the Saints defensive coordinator's choice words. Other matchup's to keep an eye on: Garcon vs. Tracy Porter, the Colts linebacker's vs. Reggie Bush, Indy's kick coverage vs. Saints return game.

Two Stats That Will Tell The Story: Points scored in the last two minutes of the first half and Reggie Wayne receiving yards. No one in league history is better late in the first half than Peyton Manning. The AFC Championship game was won by the Colts when Manning led a touchdown drive before halftime to cut the score to 17-13. If the game is close late in the first half (and it should be), the Saints cannot allow Manning time to lead a late scoring drive before the break. Wayne was not a factor two weeks ago because of the presence of Jets corner Darrelle Revis. The Saints do not have a true shut-down corner so Manning should look to his top receiver more than he did against New York. And while Garcon, Collie and Dallas Clark made big plays, a Saints victory still starts with limiting Wayne and forcing Manning to go to those other three.

The Saints will win if...Reggie Bush plays like he did against Arizona three weeks ago. Bush is the ultimate x-factor and can go the distance on any touch. New Orleans will have to score a lot of points to win the game so Reggie will need to make some big plays. He can also help swing field position with punt returns. Obviously, if New Orleans can make Manning uncomfortable and force turnovers they can win as well.

The Colts will win if...they protect Peyton Manning. If they nullify the blitz and allow Manning time to find open receivers, the Colts will hoist the Lombardi Trophy. It's that simple. Another thing will be preventing unforced errors, and particularly, they cannot shoot themselves in the foot with a fumble on a kick or punt return.

Prediction: This is a hard game for me to pick because it's a heart vs. head situation. It's fair to say everyone who is not a Colts fan, Manning fan or a Tennessee fan will be rooting for the Saints and I am no different. But picking against Peyton Manning is a stupid thing to do. Manning's career reminds me of another "greatest to ever play the game". Once Michael Jordan got over the hump and tasted victory, he never relinquished that ability to will his team to win. Manning struggled in big games early on but, since his win over the Bears in Super Bowl XLI, he has taken his game to a different level. It's hard to imagine Manning not winning this game. That being said, I am going to listen to my heart. If this game were played 10 times, the Colts may win eight but Sunday is going to be one of those two games. There is something magical about this Saints team - from their improbable win at Washington to the NFC Championship game they have felt like a team of destiny all season long. Behind emotional leaders Drew Brees and Darren Sharper, the Saints will use the "no one believes in us" mantra to propel themselves to a Super Bowl title. And if I'm wrong, I won't be the first to say "Well, that's why you don't pick against Peyton Manning". Saints 34 - Colts 31

The Breakfast Blend...the best part of waking up

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 16:13:00 +0000

By Willie Mullen

Amare Stoudemire, The Bulls, Tim Tebow and The Team That Cannot Find Coaches

Here's my take on this morning's headlines:

Numerous media outlets are reporting that the Phoenix Suns have decided to trade 27-year-old All-Star Amare Stoudemire. Stoudemire is having another great season, averaging 20.6 points per game and 8.4 rebounds per game. Of the guys younger than 30 in the much-heralded free agent class of 2010, Stoudemire figures to be the fourth or fifth most desirable player for teams looking to make add a superstar, behind Lebron James, Dewayne Wade, Chris Bosh and perhaps Joe Johnson (depending on need). With that being the case, the trade market for Stoudemire should be very competitive between teams looking to shed some salary for a big-time player on loan with an expiring contract and teams looking to acquire Stoudemire with the intention of giving him the maximum contract he is expected to command on the open market prior to reaching free agency. Then there is Cleveland and Miami; both teams would like to get Stoudemire to show their own superstar (James and Wade, respectively) that they are committed to winning in hopes of keeping them after this year. These two teams are my favorites to make this trade - they have too much riding on the next six months to not make something happen before half of the teams in the NBA make contract offers to their best players. And as far as Cleveland goes, they currently have the best record in the league and the addition of Stoudemire would significantly increase their chances of winning a championship this season. Expect Cavaliers general manager Danny Ferry to try everything within his power to get this deal done.

The Chicago Bulls are playing terrific basketball lately and look like they are going to make yet another second-half run. Not surprisingly, the teams' good play coincides with better shooting, better defense and, most importantly, better play from Derrick Rose. Last year's number one overall pick was hurt during training camp and is just now rounding into form. His numbers tell the story. In November, Rose averaged 16.2 ppg, 5.3 apg, 2.9 rpg and shot 46.4% from the field. Last month those numbers jumped to 20.4/6.1/3.8/45% and have gone up in January to 23.3/6.5/4.5/51%. Right now it would be hard to name ten players in the league playing better than Rose. There are other factors that have contributed to the recent success. Kirk Hinrich and Tyrus Thomas are healthy, John Salmons has been a more consistent shooter (so has Hinrich) and Joakim Noah continues to play like an All-Star center. The team also looks to have rallied around head coach Vinny Del Negro after reports surfaced that the coach was as-good-as-gone in late December. But what is most exciting about the Bulls is the future. With numerous contracts expiring after the season, the Bulls figure to have a good chance to land one of the big names (listed above) in free agency. Furthermore, rumors have the Bulls looking to move Kirk Hinrich and, if they could find a taker, the team would have enough money to acquire two big-names. Several NBA insiders have heard that James and Bosh want to end up in the same place if (and that's a big "if") they leave their current teams. Moving Hinrich could open-up the possibility of those two coming to Chicago, giving the Bulls a rotation of Rose-Luol Deng-James-Bosh-Noah for years to come. If that dream scenario does not play out, the Bulls should still land a big-man like Bosh and a guard like Johnson. I hope the team does not get involved in the Stoudemire sweepstakes; he lacks the rebounding and defensive abilities, not to mention injury concerns, I want in a max-contract big-man. For now, times are good with this team and the future is very bright.

For every NFL team not named New Orleans or Indianapolis, all eyes are on this week's Senior Bowl and, specifically, a certain left-handed quarterback who had one of the most decorated collegiate careers ever. Tim Tebow did it all at Florida but there are questions about how his skills will translate to Sunday's version. Certainly no one will question his heart and leadership abilities. But Tebow doubters' point to his run-first strictly shotgun-snap offense and slow throwing motion as reasons why he cannot be an NFL quarterback. And early reports from Senior Bowl practices have not been good, either. Tebow has fumbled snaps under-center, has been slow delivering the football and has been very inaccurate. ESPN's draft guru Todd McShay went as far as to say Tebow was not even one of the three best quarterbacks at the event and should be taken in the draft before the third round. The interesting thing about Tebow's draft status is his popularity. With several teams struggling to fill their stadiums (namely the Jacksonville Jaguars), an organization may draft Tebow in an effort to sell-out games despite feeling he cannot play quarterback. Only time will tell but there is no doubt that the most interesting story of the 2010 draft will be Tebow.

The Chicago Bears are not looking for a quarterback but they are still looking for both an offensive and defensive coordinator. In all likelihood, the new defensive coordinator is already on the staff and Lovie Smith intends to promote a position coach (Rod Marinelli is the favorite). But the team has had no success finding an offensive coordinator. Most recently, former Ravens quarterbacks coach Hue Jackson took the same position with the Raiders and turned down an interview with Chicago. It's hard to imagine someone taking a job with the Raiders over the Bears but that is how this search has gone. Some say candidates are not excited to work with Jay Cutler and that may have something to do with it. But the underlying message is job security and clearly the coaches who have interviewed with the Bears got the feeling that Lovie Smith is on the hottest of hot seats. The team will eventually find someone, even if it is option number 32. But the message is clear: the Bears have to win 10 or 11 games and make the playoffs if Lovie Smith and Jerry Angelo have any chance of keeping their jobs. My ideal scenario is this: the Bears go 5-11, they clean house and Bill Cowher takes over the reigns. Maybe I'm dreaming but this is certainly a possibility. I will take another bad season to have Cowher running the show for the next five years.

The Breakfast Blend...the best part of waking up

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 16:19:00 +0000

By Willie Mullen

Championship Sunday

Here's my take on this morning's headlines:

Led by the NFL's only four-time MVP, Peyton Manning, the Indianapolis Colts are headed to the Super Bowl for the second time in four seasons. The New York Jets put up a great fight and had a 17-6 lead with just over two minutes left in the first half. But Manning led a touchdown drive late in the half and another on the Colts first possession of the second half to start a 24-0 scoring run by the Colts that put this game away. Early on, the Jets pressured Manning and got some big plays offensively but, as the game went on, Manning figured out their blitz schemes and the Jets offense stalled, ultimately dooming this years' Cinderella. I wrote in Friday's preview that Manning would have to out-wit Rex Ryan and he and center Jeff Saturday would have to win the alignment battle at the line of scrimmage - the Colts did both. The Colts defense deserves a lot of credit as well. Take away the two big plays that led to 14 points and the defense allowed just three points and prevented the Jets from moving the ball consistently. The defense will have their hands full in two weeks but for now they have a chance to rest, get healthy and begin preparation. But yesterday's game was all about Manning. He threw for 377 yards and three touchdowns against the league's best defense. When the Jets took away top-targets Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark, Manning looked to Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie and both responded in impressive fashion. Even before Manning takes the field to win his second title, its hard not to think we are watching the greatest quarterback in the history of the NFL. Manning makes elite defenses look pedestrian, turns no-names into superstars and controls his offense with more precision and efficiency than any signal-caller that has ever played. He is in position to win his second Super Bowl and he still has a lot of good years left. It is not a far stretch to imagine Manning winning multiple championships in the coming years.

The Saints will make an appearance on Super Bowl Sunday for the first time in franchise history thanks to yesterday's overtime victory of the Minnesota Vikings. The Saints were in charge of the NFC from Week 1 and make for a great story. Their offense is dynamic, their defense is a turnover machine and they can certainly pull-off the upset in two weeks. That being said, yesterday's game was not won by the Saints - it was lost by the Vikings. Minnesota is the better team and even found a way to nullify the Saints' home-field advantage. Their defense slowed down the Saints high-powered attack and they consistently moved the ball. But turnovers are the great equalizer and the Vikings killed themselves by putting the ball on the ground six times, losing three fumbles, and Brett Favre threw a dagger of an interception, his second of the game, near the end of regulation as the Vikings were on the fringe of field-goal range. Minnesota out gained New Orleans 475 yards to 257 but committed five turnovers to the Saints one. The Vikings were also four of six inside the red zone. Minnesota has a past filled with lots of heart-break but yesterday's game has to rank at the top of the list. If Brett Favre comes back, the Vikings will once again be Super Bowl contenders and should have a chance to make up for yesterday's loss. If Favre retires (for good), the Vikings will have to find a quarterback and yesterday's loss could sting for a long, long time. Give the Saints credit - they made the most out of the opportunities and won the game in the end. For a city that was devastated by disaster just four years ago, New Orleans has a lot to be excited about and the next two weeks should be all-kinds-of-fun for Saints fans.

One last thing about yesterday's Saints-Vikings game. In my opinion, the officiating left a lot to be desired. I have no problem with the amount of flags because most of them were justified. There are two calls that really stuck out, however. First, Vikings punt returned Darius Reynaud called for a fair-catch but muffed the punt. Reynaud recovered the ball and was hit hard by Saints linebacker Jonathan Casillas. Casillas was flagged for a 15-yard roughing penalty but here's my question: if a punt is muffed (regardless of the fair-catch), it becomes a live-ball and therefore Casillas essentially tackled Reynaud, albeit Reynaud was not trying to advance the ball. Why is that a penalty? The second call I took issue with was the "too many men in the huddle" flag that was thrown late in the game against the Vikings. Coming out of a timeout, 12-men were in the huddle and Brett Favre appeared to recognize this mistake and call a timeout. The referees issued a five-yard penalty instead of a 15-yard penalty for calling back-to-back timeouts. Maybe the referees determined the penalty occurred before the timeout but that needed to be relayed to the viewers because I thought a 15-yard delay of game was the right call.

NFL - Championship Round Preview & Picks

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:17:00 +0000

By Willie Mullen

NFL Championship Round Preview and Picks

New York Jets (11-7) @ Indianapolis Colts -7.5 (15-2)

Jets: The Jets are proving that a throw-back team built on a strong running game and defense can win in today's pass-happy high-scoring NFL. Even more impressive than their surprising playoff run is the fact that they are led by a rookie quarterback (Mark Sanchez) and a rookie head coach (Rex Ryan), with a rookie running back (Shonn Greene) making major contributions. The offense has done enough to win but the defense is the real story for the Jets. Led by corner Darrelle Revis, the Jets continue to shut down opposing offenses and force turnovers at critical times. With one more win, the Jets will make their first Super Bowl appearance since 1968-1969.
Colts: Indianapolis showed no rust following a few weeks off in their 20-3 win over the Ravens last Saturday. As always, Peyton Manning and the offense are in high-gear and will be ready for Sunday's game. The Colts under-sized defense continues to keep opponents out of the endzone and their speed is difficult for offenses, particularly offensive lines, to handle. Peyton Manning is hoping to lead his team to their second Super Bowl appearance in four years.
Preview: In my opinion, the Jets are very similar to the Ravens, whom the Colts defeated last week. They run the ball a lot and will rely on their defense to keep them in the game. There are two big differences however: (1) Mark Sanchez is playing much better football than was Joe Flacco and (2) the Jets commit far fewer penalties than the Ravens. The Jets will look to keep this game close early so they can wear down the Colts defensive line and have success running the ball in the second half. The Colts offense continues to define efficiency and they will have their hands full Sunday against the league's top-ranked defense
Coaching: Rex Ryan was a hot name for a head coaching position for several years and you have to think some of the teams that passed on him are regretting their decision. He has proven to be an incredible motivator and leader; his team is prepared, relaxed and they believe they will beat anyone. The future is very, very bright for the Jets under Ryan. Jim Caldwell also deserves a lot of credit. It's never easy to replace a great coach but Caldwell has picked-up where Tony Dungy left-off, winning 15 games and on the verge of a Super Bowl berth. But the advantage goes to Ryan in this one.
Key Matchup: Rex Ryan vs. Peyton Manning. Ryan is quickly becoming the best defensive mind in the NFL and we all know how Manning runs the Colts offense with unmatched precision and efficiency. Manning will spend a lot of time at the line of scrimmage trying to get Ryan to tip his hand and, if the Jets show their attack a second too soon, Manning will carve them up. Expect the Jets to counter Manning's "audibles" with movement of their own.
Two Stats That Will Tell The Story: Jets 3rd down conversion percentage and red zone touchdown percentage. If the Jets are to pull off the upset, they have to keep Peyton Manning on the sidelines so converting third downs to extend drives is a must. Once they get in the red zone, the Jets have to score touchdowns instead of field goals; the Colts are one of the best in the league at keeping opponents out of the end zone.
The Jets will win if...Dustin Keller, Braylon Edwards, Jerricho Cotchery and Brad Smith make some plays. New York's pass-catchers have to help move the chains and gain some yards after the catch. It will help if Mark Sanchez does turn the ball over as well.
The Colts will win if...Jeff Saturday and Peyton Manning properly align their protection schemes. The Jets blitzed the Chargers 60% of the time last week so these two must be able to locate the extra pass-rushers and adjust their teammates accordingly. Home-field advantage should pay huge dividends in this aspect by allowing communication to be fairly easy.
Prediction: It's easy to sympathize with tormented Jets fans and the underdog (although I'm sure Rex Ryan would not call his team that) is always easy to cheer for. When he was hired, Ryan said his team will visit the White House as Super Bowl champions sometime very soon but I do not think this is the year. Unless Mark Sanchez has the game of his life, the Jets do not have enough fire-power to pull off the upset. Peyton Manning is the best quarterback in the NFL and should lead his team back to the Super Bowl in Miami for the second straight time. Colts 24 - Jets 17

Minnesota Vikings (13-4) @ New Orleans Saints -3.5 (14-3)

Vikings: Minnesota was absolutely dominating, rebounding from some late-season struggles. Adrian Peterson continues to fight for yards but Brett Favre is on-fire and the defense, led by a suffocating pass-rush, is controlling the field. Favre torched Dallas' defense, throwing for 234 yards and four touchdowns, and the Vikings defense had six sacks, forced three turnovers and held the Cowboys to 130 yards after the first quarter.
Saints: Similar to the Vikings, the Saints ended all speculation surrounding their late-season woes with an impressive 45-14 over the Cardinals last weekend. Drew Brees and the offense found their groove and Reggie Bush had the best game of his career with 217 total yards and two touchdowns. Defensively, the Saints prevented Arizona from consistently moving the football and rebounded nicely after allowing a touchdown on the first play of the game.
Preview: The NFC looked to be wide-open when the playoffs started. Teams like Green Bay, Philadelphia and Dallas appeared to be the conferences' best at times but, in the end, it is the two teams who have been on-top all season that will play for a Super Bowl birth. Both the Saints and Vikings are balanced on offense and rely on a heavy pass-rush from their front-four to lead their defenses. Both are suspect in the secondary and the Saints will take a few more chances in hopes of a turnover than will the Vikings. This game figures to be very close and the spread tells me that Vegas sees it as a 50/50 matchup.
Coaching: Defensive coordinators Gregg Williams and Leslie Frazier are among the league's best and both will have to contain high-scoring offenses. Aside from his choice of headset, Brad Childress has had a great year thanks to the addition of Favre and a team built to win a championship. Sean Payton got his offense back on track last week and there is not a quarterback-coach combination more in sync that Payton-Brees. Payton has the edge but Childress can prove his doubters wrong with a win on Sunday.
Key Matchup: The obvious choice is both offensive lines against the pass-rushers, particularly Jermon Bushrod and Jared Allen. But my selection is Jabari Greer and Tracy Porter vs. Sidney Rice. The addition of Favre has turned Rice into an elite receiver and he is a tough matchup for opposing corners. Rice is big and fast and he is a terrific route runner who attacks the ball when it is thrown his way. Greer and Porter have to make someone other than Rice beat them in the passing game. Expect Darren Sharper to offer a lot of over-the-top help on Rice.
Two Stats That Will Tell The Story: Combined sacks and pressures from Saints defense and plays over 20 yards for both teams. The Saints will bring extra rushers in passing situations as they cannot allow Favre time to find open receivers. Defensive ends Will Smith and Charles Grant must win their battles with the Vikings tackles. Look at these weapons: (Vikings) Peterson, Rice, Chester Taylor, Bernard Berrian, Percy Harvin, Visanthe Shiancoe - (Saints) Bush, Pierre Thomas, Marques Colston, Robert Meachem, Devery Henderson, Jeremy Shockey. Both teams get explosive plays from all over the field so this game will hinge on which team gets more.
The Vikings will win if...Adrian Peterson gains over 120 yards. I expect Jared Allen and the Vikings defensive line to pressure Drew Brees but Peterson has to have a few big runs. Teams are really preventing Peterson from beating them and Favre has benefited. The Saints may do more to stop Favre so Peterson needs to respond. He also needs to hold onto the football, something that has troubled him throughout his career.
The Saints will win if...Reggis Bush plays like he did last week. Simply put, Bush was incredible last Saturday. Too often in his career has Bush danced around at the line of scrimmage and ran east-west instead of north-south. Well something clicked last weekend and Bush ran with never-before-seen toughness. With his speed and agility, Bush is unstoppable if he continues to run that way.
Prediction: It's hard to ignore the magic that surrounds Brett Favre and this season has been truly remarkable. This Vikings team, led by the 40-year-old gun-slinger, almost feels destined to win a championship. But the Saints are playing for the franchises' first ever Super Bowl birth and we all know how loud and intense the Superdome will be come Sunday (in fact, the party is probably starting right now). Add in the fact that the Vikings looked very average on the road late in the season (3 straight losses) and I think the emotion in the building will be enough to carry the Saints to Miami. Saints 38 - Vikings 35

The Breakfast Blend...the best part of waking up

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 15:13:00 +0000

By Willie Mullen

Norv Turner, Chan Gailey and the Seattle Mariners

Here's my take on this morning's headlines:

Despite their downright dreadful performance against the New York Jets on Sunday, the San Diego Chargers have decided to extend head coach Norv Turner's contract through the 2013 season. The book on Turner was displayed beautifully this season: a great regular season followed by post-season disappointment. So why did the Chargers choose to sign on for three more seasons of certain playoff failure? There's no denying Turner's ability to coach an offense and Philip Rivers has become a top-5 NFL quarterback under his guidance. And to be fair, Turner's career playoff record is 5-5 - not exactly as bad a post-season record as we all think - and the Chargers have gone 32-16 since Turner became coach in 2007. Sunday's loss was definitely surprising but the Jets deserve more credit for the win than the Chargers do blame for the loss. If Ron Rivera can find a way to get the Chargers defense to return to their place among the NFL's best, the Chargers will be Super Bowl contenders for the duration of Turner's new contract and he will have many chances to prove all of his doubters wrong.

In other NFL news, the Buffalo Bills will reportedly name Chan Gailey their new head coach. Gailey, who turned 58 last week, coached the Dallas Cowboys in 1998 and 1999 and coached the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets from 2002 to 2007. Gailey has been a staple in the NFL and college football since 1984 and certainly no one can question his experience or previous success. However, this hiring carries with it little to no excitement because it's just another example of a team trying to re-hash a coach from the league's "good ol' boy" fraternity. Buffalo was in a situation where they had to do something to get their fans interested and talking about the team. The Bills went after several young up-and-coming coaches but could not seal the deal for some reason. If I were a Bills fan, I would be very upset my team could not land a coach like Leslie Frazier or Brian Schottenheimer - two guys who appear ready to become head coaches and are familiar with the "modern" NFL and players. Something tells me Buffalo will be in this same situation in a few years.

Much to the delight of Seattle Mariners' fans everywhere, Felix Hernandez has agreed to a 5-year, $80 million extension with the team. Hernandez, 23, was baseball's next big thing a few years ago and produced his best year last season, winning 19 games and finishing second in the AL Cy Young voting. Hernandez is one of the three best young pitchers in baseball and should be a dominating figure in the AL West for years to come. The Mariners have had a tremendous off-season, adding Chone Figgins via free agency and Cliff Lee via trade. They will have to make a decision on whether or not to re-sign Cliff Lee (or even trade him mid-season for prospects) but, for 2010, the Mariners are the favorites to win the AL West and look to be serious contenders in the American League.

NFL - Divisional Round Preview & Picks

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 21:35:00 +0000

By Willie Mullen

NFL Divisional Round Preview & Picks

Arizona Cardinals (11-6) @ New Orleans Saints -7 (13-3)

Cardinals: What a crazy win for the Cardinals last Sunday against Green Bay. Kurt Warner was, once again, spectacular in a playoff game and has hit legendary status when it comes to quarterback play in the postseason. Kudos to Steve Breaston and Early Doucet for replacing the injured Anquan Boldin in impressive style. The defense struggled to make stops late but came up with the game-winning play when they needed to.
Saints: The mighty Saints looked anything but mighty down the stretch as they found life at the top to be very difficult. Injuries have hurt but the bottom line is the Saints have not played well since December 6th, losing their last three games - two of which were at home. Here lies the biggest question of the weekend: can New Orleans get back into the groove they had during their dominating season-opening 13 game winning streak?
Preview: Drew Brees and the Saints offense will be ready to put up big numbers against an Arizona defense that struggles to stop the pass. Brees is as accurate a passer as there is in the league and he has more receiving weapons to work with than any other quarterback. To make matters worse for the Cardinals D, Sean Payton is one of the best play-callers in the NFL. For me, this game comes down to the Saints defense. Kurt Warner proved last week that, given time to find open receivers, he will shred even the league's best defenses and Arizona runs the ball with just enough effectiveness to keep defenses honest. New Orleans must find ways to pressure Kurt Warner to allow their ball-hawking secondary, led by Pro-Bowler Darren Sharper, to make plays on rushed or errant throws. Creativity will be key for the Saints when blitzing because Warner does an excellent job at recognizing coverages pre-snap.
Coaching: Ken Whisenhunt continues to get his team ready to play come playoff time but he better have his defense in position to succeed or the Cardinals could be in for a long day. As I said earlier, Sean Payton is an offensive genius so the pressure in this contest falls on the shoulders of defensive coordinator Gregg Williams.
Prediction: The Cardinals defy all logic come playoff time because of their suspect defense and inconsistency. Picking against them may once again come back to bite me. But I think New Orleans, playing at home, has a lot to prove and Drew Brees is the kind of emotional leader I want to back in a game like this. Saints 34 - Cardinals 24

Baltimore Ravens (10-7) @ Indianapolis Colts -6.5 (14-2)

Ravens: Baltimore was incredibly impressive in their 33-14 at New England last Sunday. The running game was relentless, the pass-rush was fast and the secondary made plays when presented with opportunities. The Ravens confidence has to be very high but eventually Joe Flacco will have to make something happen in the passing game.
Colts: It's crazy to think that the two teams that started the season the best (New Orleans and Indianapolis) are the teams with the most to prove in their first playoff game. The decision to pass on an undefeated season in favor of good health puts a lot of pressure on the Colts to prove they made the right choice. I can say this much about this move: the Colts enter the postseason rested and healthy and should make a serious run at a championship.
Preview: This matchup figures to be a great clash of differing styles. The Ravens want to run the ball and play tough, aggressive defense while the Colts will make plays in the passing game and try to get their defense to trade field goals for touchdowns. Ray Rice continues to prove he is among the league's best running backs and he needs to have a huge game for the Ravens to win. The keys for Baltimore are simple: convert on third downs to keep Peyton Manning off the field and they have to score touchdowns when they get in the red zone. Manning, fresh off winning his NFL record fourth MVP, will spread the ball around to his various targets making it very difficult for Baltimore to key on any one guy.
Coaching: Aside for failing to challenge a fumbled-punt, John Harbaugh and his crew were at their best against the Patriots. Cam Cameron, with the help of a very special young man, has done a great job protecting Joe Flacco. On the other side, Jim Caldwell is under pressure to prove resting his players was the right call so expect the Colts to be very focused. Peyton Manning is the best on-the-field coach in the league so the Colts have a big advantage when he is at the line of scrimmage.
Prediction: There is no doubt in my mind that Peyton Manning will bring his A-game and the rest of the Colts always seem well prepared and ready to play. Behind their strong running game and attacking defense, the Ravens should be able to keep this game close. In the end, however, Joe Flacco will not be able to make a play when Baltimore has to have one and that is why their season will end Saturday night. Colts 27 - Ravens 21

Dallas Cowboys (12-5) @ Minnesota Vikings -2.5 (12-4)

Cowboys: Dallas in on fire and look like the best Cowboys team in recent years. Last Saturday night was no different: they got their first playoff win since 1996, Tony Romo proved to be much more than a regular season star and the defense is playing their best football of the season. Good times in Big D.
Vikings: Minnesota dominated the early part of the season but ran into some tough times late losing three of their last five games. The Vikings did achieve their most important goal up to this point: Brett Favre is completely healthy entering the playoffs. The bye week also helped several other key players (namely Antoine Winfield and Percy Harvin) get healthy. Adrian Peterson has not rushed for over 100 yards in his last seven games and is averaging just 3.5 yards per carry over that time.
Preview: Both of these teams are really, really good. They are balanced on offense and defense and this looks like it could be one of the best games of the year. With Marion Barber battling injuries, the Cowboys have turned to Felix Jones and Tashard Choice and both have responded with great play. Miles Austin figures to see a lot of Antoine Winfield so expect Tony Romo to look over the middle where tight end Jason Witten will create mismatches against the Vikings' linebackers and safeties. Vikings' tackels Bryant McKinnie and Phil Loadholt will have their hands' full with DeMarcus Ware and Anthony Spencer. Both Romo and Favre have a history of making mistakes at inopportune times and this game will come down to who makes the big turnover.
Coaching: Wade Phillips saved his job with last week's win and a win on Sunday could offer him a high level of security going forward. You have to give the Cowboys staff credit for getting their team to play their best football at exactly the right time. A lot is riding on this game for Brad Childress. He has put all of his eggs in the Brett Favre basket but he must find a way to get Adrian Peterson going if the Vikings want to play in Miami.
Prediction: It's very, very difficult to pick against a team playing as well as the Cowboys are right now. They are firing on all cylinders and peaking at exactly the right time. But I'm an NFC North homer and I think Adrian Peterson has a big game and Jared Allen makes mince-meat out of Cowboys tackle Flozell Adams. If that doesn't happen, at least the Vikings hold a sizable advantage in field goal kicker Ryan Longwell and home-field advantage. Vikings 31 - Cowboys 28

New York Jets (10-7) @ San Diego Chargers -7 (13-3)

Jets: Who says Mark Sanchez isn't ready for prime time? Sanchez led the Jets to a solid victory in Cincinnati, completing 80% of his passes for 182 yards and one touchdown. Rookie running back Shonn Greene shined while replacing the injured Thomas Jones and the defense continues to dominate.
Chargers: Of the four teams who had a bye last week, the Chargers are the only one who does not have questions surrounding their late-season performance. In Week 17, playing mostly backups, the Chargers were able to extend their winning streak to 11 games. The Chargers struggle to run the ball and have some holes on defense but they make up for these shortcomings with a passing game that no team in the NFL can matchup against.
Preview: The Jets are committed to running the ball and playing good defense and I expect Sunday to be no different. Without big nose tackle Jamal Williams, the Chargers run defense can be beaten and the Jets should have success behind their talented offensive line. Sanchez will once again have to play smart, efficient football and not turn the ball over. San Diego does not have the same running game they have in years past but it does not seem to bother them. Four of the Chargers top five receivers are six-foot-two or taller and Philip Rivers is excellent at throwing the ball up and giving his big guys a chance to make plays over smaller defenders. Rivers' number one target, Vincent Jackson, will be matched up with All-World cornerback Darrelle Revis so expect Malcolm Floyd and Antonio Gates to receive a majority of the targets.
Coaching: Rex Ryan is making quite a name for himself in his first year as a head coach. He backs up his honest, bizarre antics with a prepared team on game day and offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer is a big reason why. No coach enters this weekend with more on the line than Chargers coach Norv Turner. Turner has made a living off of great regular seasons but has repeatedly come up short in the playoffs. I give Ryan the advantage in this game.
Prediction: As much as I like their offensive line and defense, its hard to imagine the Jets winning this game. They lack a difference-making wide receiver and are going to struggle matching up with the Chargers outside of Revis. The only hope the Jets have is forcing 3+ turnovers and Norv Turner. In the end, it will not be enough to stop the red-hot Chargers. Chargers 27 - Jets 13

The Breakfast Blend...the best part of waking up

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 15:48:00 +0000

By Willie Mullen

Mark McGwire, Lane Kiffin and Chicago's "Search" For New Coaches

Here's my take on this morning's (and yesterday's) headlines:

Mark McGwire finally came clean and admitted he used steroids and HGH throughout his career. With McGwire returning to baseball as the St. Louis Cardinals hitting coach, it was only a matter of time before he would have had to address the steroids issue publicly and apparently he felt it was in the best interest of his career (both past and future) to admit his wrongdoings now. This news should be in no way surprising to anyone; it was clear McGwire, like most players during that era, was using some sort of performance enhancer. And for what it's worth, I appreciate players coming clean when it comes to this issue. McGwire joins the likes of Jason Giambi, Andy Pettite and Alex Rodriguez, all players who admitted using steroids and have since been forgiven. Sure their supposed reasons for taking illegal substances can be questioned but the fact they owned up to their mistakes, although mostly long overdue, matters to me. I have little respect for guys who act like positive steroid tests or strong accusations carry no weight (I'm talking to you, Roger Clemens and Sammy Sosa). I do, however, have two issues with the McGwire situation. First, how can "Big Mac" honestly say these substances did not help him hit more home runs? While steroids do not help improve hand-eye coordination, they certainly help build muscle and, stay with me, more muscle = more power = more home runs. Secondly, I am sick of this stupid steroid dance we are all performing. It feels like every three months or so we are talking about a new "superstar" testing positive. Remember, there are still another 100 or so names on "the list" that will be leaked out over time. Either there needs to be a big "coming clean" event (televised on ESPN of course) where hundreds and hundreds of players are in a big banquet hall and take turns admitting their steroid use or there needs to be a weekly show where one or two names are revealed. That way there will be an end date in sight - at our current pace, steroids users who played in 2001 will be talking about their use in 2037. Either way would be better than our current system. But for now, I'm glad McGwire did what he did and hopefully more players will follow suit soon.

Lane Kiffin left his job at Tennessee after only one season to take the head coaching position at USC. I understand why he made this move: although Tennessee is a top program, few (if any) universities are as elite in the college football world as USC. Kiffin was also an assistant at USC so familiarity and comfort had to be a factor. That being said, Kiffin appears to be a guy who does not know what he wants and is completely selfish in his actions. Just look at his past few years: hired as Oakland Raiders head coach in 2007, leaves after one season in 2008 to join Tennessee only to leave one year later for Southern California. It's hard to blame Kiffin for fleeing Oakland - that place is a black hole. But to dump Tennessee, and more importantly, all the players he recruited through trust and respect after one season is ridiculous. Tennessee will be better off without Kiffin because a guy like him is easy to see through and will struggle to build a program. But looking ahead, how does USC expect their current players to trust Kiffin? Players in the locker room, particularly the younger ones, will be skeptical of Kiffin's true intentions and year one may be very rough. Sure, top recruits will still go to USC but they are more likely to do so because of the program as opposed to the coach. That to me sounds like a recipe for disaster.

The Chicago Bears are still looking for offensive and defensive coordinators. Ten days ago general manager Jerry Angelo assured fans they would have no trouble getting top coaches because Chicago is a great destination. News flash: right now, it's not. The reason is simple: Lovie Smith is on the super-hot-seat so any coach who joins the team may be looking for a new job come 2011, maybe sooner. Add in the fact that Lovie Smith has a history of throwing his coaches under the bus and the Bears may not be able to get anyone with any sort of competency to take these jobs. So I offer a solution: hire two more "yes" men to "coordinate" these units, muddle through another 7-9 season and clean house in January of 2011 to make room for Bill Cowher. Unfortunately, something tells me the Bears will find a way to screw this up, just like every first round draft pick and free agent signing.

The Breakfast Blend...the best part of waking up

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 17:06:00 +0000

By Willie Mullen

The NFL Playoffs & Pete Carroll

Here's my take on this morning's headlines:

The NFL gods did us fans a solid with yesterday's Packers-Cardinals game. Preceded by three blow-out duds, the last of the wildcard games proved to be the best and has to rank among the best first round playoff games ever. Go figure: in a game that featured the highest point total in NFL playoff history, it was a defensive play that won the game for the Cardinals. So much happened in this game:

Nerves had to have been a factor early on for the Packers, especially Aaron Rodgers, whose first pass was uncharacteristically intercepted. After that first attempt, Rodgers produced these numbers: 28/41, 422 yards, 4 tds, 0 ints, 1 rush td. If there was ever a doubt Rodgers is a big-time franchise quarterback (and there shouldn't have been), it was completely annihilated yesterday. He was incredible.
While Rodgers is the best young quarterback in the league, his performance was overshadowed by 38-year-old signal-caller Kurt Warner. Warner said after the game that he felt "on" and knew he was going to have a good day. Then he went out and did this: 29/33, 379 yards, 5tds, 0 ints. Uh, you think he felt good? More touchdowns than incompletions? I don't think I have ever seen that before. Many questioned Kurt Warner's place in NFL history prior to last season's run to the Super Bowl. Now, there is no question: Warner is one of the great passers of all-time and will be a Hall-of-Famer.
I loved the way the Cardinals game-planned without their #2 receiver, Anquan Boldin. Instead of looking to one guy to fill his shoes, Arizona used multiple guys to replace one and it worked. Be it Steve Breaston, Early Doucet or LaRod Stephens-Howling, Warner found open players all over the field and that was the difference in the game.
Speaking of pass-catchers, let's give some love to Breaston, Greg Jennings, Larry Fitzgerald and Jermichael Finley. All four put up great numbers and each had a few catches that made you say "wow". The quarterbacks were red-hot but they got a lot of help from these four.
In the end, this game falls on the Packers defense in my opinion. That unit played too well all season long to lay an egg like they did yesterday. Give Arizona's offense a lot of credit, particularly the offensive line which did a great job allowing Kurt Warner time to throw. But Green Bay could not handle Arizona's speed, could not cover the middle of the field and could not make a stop when they had to have one. This was a bad game at the worst possible time.

Prior to the game of the year (so far), the Baltimore Ravens handled the New England Patriots from beginning to end in their 33-14 win on Sunday. From the first play of the game, an 83-yard touchdown run by Ray Rice, the Ravens were the faster, more physical team. Their offensive line is big and nasty, paving the way for a power running game featuring three legitimate ball-carriers and the defense is hard-hitting, emphasis on hard. Joe Flacco will have to make some plays next weekend in Indianapolis but if they can control time of possession and force Peyton Manning into a few mistakes, Baltimore could be headed to their second straight AFC Championship game. As for New England, all season long they looked like a team without an identity and the house of cards came crumbling down yesterday. The Patriots defense could not stop the run, Tom Brady was not anywhere near 100% healthy and Randy Moss might as well have been sitting next to Wes Welker in owner Robert Kraft's suite. But don't mistake this loss for the end of an era: Tom Brady will be back to form next season, the young defense got a ton of experience and the Patriots have a boatload of draft picks to resupply their roster with front-end talent and depth.

The Dallas Cowboys finally won a playoff game and continued to play great football in their 34-14 win over the Philadelphia Eagles. After Michael Vick hit Jeremy Maclin for a 76-yard touchdown to tie the game at seven, the Cowboys went on a 27-0 run to turn this game into a blowout. What impresses me about Dallas is the number of ways they can beat you. Great quarterback play? Check. Play-makers on the ground and at wide receiver? Check. A defense that pressures the quarterback, stops the run and forces turnovers? Check, check, check. All-in-all Dallas is a dangerous team and looks like a serious contender. Next week's matchup at Minnesota should be the divisional rounds' best game and the Cowboys can advance if they continue to execute at such a high level. For Eagles' fans, this season was more of the same that has plagued them throughout the Donovan McNabb-Andy Reid era. High expectations, great play and, in the end, just not enough to get over the hump. Following another heart-breaking season, you have to wonder if this combination will be back together next season.

The New York J-E-T-S move-on to the second round after defeating the Cincinnati Bengals 24-14 on Saturday, thanks in large part to three rookies. Quarterback Mark Sanchez (182 yards, 1td, 80%cmp) proved he can be an efficient quarterback under pressure, running back Shonn Greene (135 yards, 1td) was stellar in place of Thomas Jones and head coach Rex Ryan drew up a great gameplan to maximize his teams' success. Kudos to kicker Jay Feely as well for taking on punting duties after regular punter Steve Weatherford was unable to play. Feely did not boom any punts but he did not screw any up either, allowing just one punt to be returned, in addition to connecting on one field goal and all three point after attempts. In today's pass-happy NFL, the Jets are a throwback of sorts and they rely on a formula that looked to be past its prime: run the ball, play great defense and do not turn the ball over. They executed all three to perfection on Saturday and will need much more of the same if they have any chance of defeating the San Diego Chargers next week. The Bengals season ended because of their inability to make plays in the passing game. This was Cincy's Achilles' heel all season and proved to be too much to overcome. And while Cedric Benson continues to develop into a premier back and the defense is getting better every week, Bengals fans have to wonder if Carson Palmer will ever return to the form that made him a Pro-Bowler in 2005 and 2006.

In other NFL news, Pete Carroll has accepted an offer to become the next head coach of the Seattle Seahawks. It's only natural to wonder why Carroll would leave such a great situation at USC to once again try his hand at the NFL level. After going just 33-31 on Sunday's, Carroll was 97-19 with two national titles at USC. Perhaps Carroll, like most coaches, is always up for a challenge and believes he will succeed despite his previous struggles. But its hard not too look at this move and consider other factors, most notably potential NCAA sanctions resulting from several situations currently under investigation. Carroll has constantly had to answer questions about Reggie Bush, Joe McKnight and other alleged violations of NCAA rules and it is fair to speculate that USC is about to be disciplined. So Carroll may have jumped ship, knowing sometime soon USC will lose scholarships, vacate wins and be placed on probation. Again, this is all speculation and personal opinion. But if that is the case, Carroll has effectively removed himself from personal and professional damage, albeit damage he himself caused. Only time will tell and, for now, Carroll looks like a man ready to roam an NFL sideline and Seahawks fans should be excited about their future with Pete Carroll, the coach.

NFL - Wildcard Weekend Preview & Picks

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 21:46:00 +0000

By Willie Mullen

NFL Wildcard Weekend Preview & Picks - Awards

New York Jets (9-7) @ Cincinnati Bengals -2.5 (10-6)

Jets: Needing wins in each of their final two games, the Jets got a big gift from the football gods in Weeks 16 and 17. First, they faced a Colts team that sat Peyton Manning in the second half and then they faced a Bengals team that had nothing to play for. The result? Two wins and a playoff birth. But don't be mistaken: the Jets rank #1 in rushing offense and the defense ranks #1 in both yards against and points allowed.
Bengals: Cincinnati's rise to the top of the AFC North has to be one of biggest stories of the 2009-2010 NFL season. A heartbreaking Week 1 loss, the death of defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer's wife and the tragic loss of teammate Chris Henry have been major obstacles for this team to overcome. They have met each and every challenge and, behind a stifling defense and a strong running game, the Bengals find themselves hosting a playoff game.
Preview: This game figures to be a smash-mouth contest between two teams who love to run the ball and play attacking defense. In games like these, there are three things that will determine the outcome: field position, turnovers and third down conversions. The Jets had a -2 turnover margin while the Bengals were +3 in that area. Cincinnati was slightly better on third down but the Jets defense ranked #1 on third downs while the Bengals ranked #16. Carson Palmer holds a big advantage over Mark Sanchez but his favorite target, Chad Ochocinco, will be matched up all day against Darrelle Revis, the NFL's best cornerback. Neither team is great in the passing game so the game will be won and lost on the shoulders of Thomas Jones and Cedric Benson.
Coaching: For me, coaching has a far greater impact in the playoffs than the regular season. Marvin Lewis has proven to be a great motivator and Mike Zimmer has changed the face of the Bengals defense. Rex Ryan is tough to scheme against because of his creativity and ability to confuse quarterbacks. On the other side, this is Ryan's first playoff appearance and he is starting a rookie quarterback. Still, I give Ryan a slight advantage.
Prediction: Cincinnati has struggled of late, going 1-3 in their last four games, and they were just 4-6 outside of their division. Meanwhile, the Jets have won five of their last six and most of the damage in their 37-0 win over the Bengals last week was done with Cincinnati's starters in the game. The Jets have to be confident heading into this matchup and their defense should shut down the one-dimensional Bengals. Jets 21 - Bengals 13

Philadelphia Eagles (11-5) @ Dallas Cowboys -4 (11-5)

Eagles: Prior to Week 17, Philadelphia looked to be headed towards a deep playoff run having won six games in a row in impressive fashion. But the Eagles were dominated by the Cowboys 24-0 in last week's game to decide the NFC East champion and now return to Dallas for a rematch. Philadelphia was fifth in the league in scoring so another shutout is highly unlikely.
Cowboys: The Cowboys cannot win a game in December? That was so 2008. These 'Boys have won three straight behind a great pass rush and Tony Romo playing the best football of his career. There is no doubt about it: the Cowboys are the trendy pick to win the NFC but let's hold off on that talk until they win their first playoff game since 1996.
Preview: The Eagles have to find a way to start fast as the crowd is sure to be excited for the first playoff game in the new Cowboys Stadium. The Eagles' offensive line has to give Donovan McNabb enough time to find open receivers and, in order to do so, Philadelphia should use a lot of screen passes and draw plays to slow down the Dallas pass-rush. If executed correctly, McNabb should have the time and space to find DeSean Jackson and Brent Celek for some big plays. Michael Vick could have an impact on the game as well - he gives Andy Reid another option to slow down Dallas' front seven. Defensively, the Eagles will have their hands full with a Dallas offense that is on fire. If Philadelphia wants to keep this game close, they have to limit big plays from Miles Austin, Jason Witten and Felix Jones. It is also crucial for the Eagles to bring Tony Romo to the ground when they get a hand on him because Romo is the best in the league at keeping plays alive and creating opportunities. And what can you say about the Dallas defense? They are peaking at the right time and it feels like DeMarcus Ware and Anthony Spencer are getting to the quarterback on virtually every snap.
Coaching: Andy Reid is 4-0 all-time in Wild Card games and the Eagles have been regulars in the NFC playoff scene this decade. Wade Phillips may in fact still be coaching for his job next season but, given the Cowboys recent play, he has to like his chances to finally move beyond the first round. But despite the fact that he is one of the worst game managers (in terms of timeouts and challenges) in the league, Andy Reid still gives the Eagles a big advantage on the sidelines.
Prediction: One of the hardest things to do in the NFL is to beat the same team three times in one season. The familiarity between division foes often negates strategic advantages. I just cannot overlook the fact that Philadelphia was playing for a division title and the #2 seed in the NFC last week and completely failed to show up - not a good sign for this weekend. Add in the fact that Tony Romo is on a roll and Dallas is extremely confident and this game could be lopsided. Cowboys 34 - Eagles 17

Baltimore Ravens (9-7) @ New England Patriots -3 (10-6)

Ravens: The Ravens took care of business down the stretch, winning three of their last four to earn a playoff birth. After hitting a wall early in the season, Joe Flacco turned it around during the last few weeks, completing 61% of his pass and throwing seven touchdowns and only one interception. More importantly, however, was the growth of the Ravens defense throughout the season. After struggling early on, the defense rebounded to rank third in the league in both yards against and points allowed and tied for the AFC lead with 30 takeaways. Getting Ed Reed back after missing four games is a big boost as well.
Patriots: Uncharacteristically, the Patriots have been a difficult team to figure out this season. One week they look like world-beaters and the next they look very beatable. New England is near the top of the AFC in most statistical categories but the Pats have not had the same number of big plays this season as they have in previous years. The injury to Wes Welker is devastating: Welker led the league in receptions and was second in both yards and first downs.
Preview: This is the only game that is not a rematch of Week 17 but these two teams did meet back in Week 4 at Foxboro. The Patriots won that game 27-21 but the Ravens had a good chance to win the game late. New England's defense will have their hands full with Ray Rice but luckily for them the Ravens have few play-makers to contain. Baltimore's defense will certainly bring intensity, led by Ray Lewis. And Welker's injury impacts two important aspects of the Ravens gameplan. First, Baltimore does not have to worry about Welker running around underneath coverage, allowing their linebackers to play more aggressively and opening up all kinds of blitz options. Secondly, the Ravens can key on stopping the Patriots deep-threat, Randy Moss, by allowing Ed Reed to provide over-the-top coverage help for his slow, aging cornerbacks. For the Patriots to be successful, they must: (1) be able to run out of passing formations, (2) protect Tom Brady and, most importantly, (3) get their tight ends (particularly Ben Watson) involved early and often.
Coaching: John Harbaugh is one of the league's best young coaches. Along with offensive coordinator Cam Cameron, he has shown tremendous offensive creativity, using trick-plays, unbalanced lines and lots of motion to keep opposing defenses off-balance. Unfortunately for Harbaugh, Bill Belichick is this era's premiere coach and no one in the league is better at setting a gameplan around his opponent's weaknesses. Advantage Patriots.
Prediction: Ray Rice is the kind of player who can swing a game like this with a few big plays but the Ravens do not have any other threats offensively. Remember when Tom Brady won all those Super Bowls with a nondescript supporting cast? With the Ravens sure focus on Randy Moss, Brady will have to recall some of that old magic and look to guys like Julian Edelman, Sam Aiken and Isaiah Stanback to move the chains. This game should be close and the Patriots hold a huge advantage in the kicking game. Patriots 24 - Baltimore 23

Green Bay Packers (11-5) @ Arizona Cardinals -1 (10-6)

Packers: Fresh off a tremendous draft and an even better preseason, the Packers entered this season with high expectations. It took them some time to get going but, once they found their groove, they have been among the leagues' best. After an embarrassing Week 9 loss at Tampa Bay, the Packers have gone 7-1 and have outscored their opponents 236-125. Aaron Rodgers, who threw three interceptions in that loss to the Bucs, has been lights out as well, with 2,179 yards, 14 touchdowns and two interceptions, while completing 66% of his passes, during this stretch. And with each passing week the defense becomes more comfortable in their 3-4 alignment, finishing the season second in the NFL in both yards allowed and takeaways.
Cardinals: Arizona is hoping to capture some of that momentum that carried them to within minutes of a Super Bowl title during last years' playoffs. Much like last season, the Cardinals struggled with consistency but, with little competition in the NFC West, the Cardinals were able to coast into the playoffs. The key for them will be the continued health of Kurt Warner and the addition of Beanie Wells in the backfield has proven to be a great way to protect the 38-year-old quarterback.
Preview: The Cardinals knew they would face Green Bay again in the playoffs prior to last week's 33-7 Packers win so they played that game very conservatively in terms of both personnel and play-calling. But the Packers came out firing and made a loud statement in my opinion. Arizona will have a difficult time stopping the Packers balanced offensive attack. Whether it's Ryan Grant running the ball or Rodgers throwing to his numerous targets, the Packers are a threat to run any play in any situation, a nightmare for defensive coordinators. But the Packers biggest strength is their protection of the football. Green Bay committed just 15 turnovers all season en route to a league-leading +22 turnover margin. Arizona's offense may be without one of its tops weapons, wide receiver Anquan Boldin, for Sunday's game. Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald make up the best 1-2 receiving core in the league and his absence would be devastating. Kurt Warner must be careful with the football as the Packers secondary features a bevy of ball-hawkers, including Charles Woodson, the favorite for NFL Defensive Player of the Year. Green Bay's young linebacking core will have to slow down the big, powerful Cardinal running backs, led by Wells.
Coaching: Mike McCarthy is a terrific play-caller and Dom Capers has done wonders to the Packers defense. Perhaps the only negative about Green Bay is discipline: the Packers led the NFL in penalties. Ken Whisenhunt has turned the Cardinals into the dominant team in the NFC West but the Cardinals are too hot and cold for my liking. Capers gives the Packers a small advantage.
Prediction: While researching this game, I found myself wondering what the Arizona Cardinals do very well. They can throw the ball but are not among the league's best. Their running game was second to last in the NFC. Their defense ranks 13th in yards allowed and 14th in points against in the NFL. Then I found it: the Cardinals led the league in red zone scoring. That's a great starting point but unfortunately it will not be enough to beat a very good Green Bay team. Packers 27 - Cardinals 20

Now for my entire playoff predictions (winner in italics):

Divisional Round

Green Bay @ New Orleans

New York @ Indianapolis

Dallas @ Minnesota

New England @ San Diego

Championship Round

Green Bay @ Minnesota (Favre vs. the Pack Round 3 - could it be another other way?)

San Diego @ Indianapolis

Super Bowl

Green Bay @ San Diego Chargers

Awards

MVP - Peyton Manning (Drew Brees, Philip Rivers, Aaron Rodgers)

Off. Player - Chris Johnson (Drew Brees, Philip Rivers)

Def. Player - Charles Woodson (Darren Sharper, Jared Allen, Patrick Willis)

Off. Rookie - Percy Harvin (Hakeem Nicks, Knowshon Moreno)

Def. Rookie - Brian Cushing (Clay Matthews, Jairus Byrd)

Coach - Marvin Lewis (Jim Caldwell, Norv Turner)

The Breakfast Blend...the best part of waking up

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 15:55:00 +0000

By Willie Mullen

All About the BCS: Alabama, Nick Saban and Texas

Here's my take on this morning's headlines:

The Alabama Crimson Tide defeated the Texas Longhorns 37-21 last night to win their first national championship since 1992. And while the thing most of us will remember about this game was the injury to Texas quarterback Colt McCoy, Alabama's terrific season and performance last night should not be overlooked by any means. Yesterday, the Tide relied on the same formula that carried them throughout the regular season: a very strong running game and a fast, hard-hitting, dominating defense. Heisman trophy winner Mark Ingram rushed for 116 yards and two touchdowns and backup Trent Richardson added 109 yards and two scores. In fact, the running game was so strong that Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy attempted just 11 passes. The thing that is so impressive about Alabama's defense is that they will beat you at every level. The defensive line, led by 365-pound tackle Terrence Cody, sets the stage by eating up blocks and collapsing the pocket. The secondary features ball-hawks who can cover one-on-one, allowing the coaches to call blitzes whenever the situation dictates. It is the linebackers, however, who are the key to the Tide's dominance. Whether playing the run, blitzing or dropping into coverage, this group is as fast as any I have seen and when they make a tackle, they hit hard. All in all, Alabama's team was solid from top to bottom and the SEC has separated itself from every other conference, winning four straight national championships (all in decisive fashion). The rest of college football is not excited to learn that most of this teams key players return next season, a fact that will certainly make Alabama a near (if not completely) unanimous preseason #1 in the polls and a heavy favorite to reach the title game next year.
I was not the biggest believer in Nick Saban when he was hired by Alabama just three years ago. Sure he turned around a struggling Michigan State program. And what coach could not succeed at LSU given the hotbed of recruiting talent? Then he ran out of Miami so fast you would think the building was on fire. But in just three years at Alabama, he has completely changed my perception of his coaching abilities. After a transition-year 7-6 record his first season, the Tide went 12-0 last year before losing their last two games and obviously completed an undefeated season last night. Alabama was a sleeping football giant when Saban arrived and he has woken this monster with alarming quickness. After winning a championship in year three, he is in great position to repeat in year four and top recruits from all over the country are lining up for a chance to play for Saban. The reason for the latter is because of his style. Much like fellow recruiting genius USC coach Pete Carroll, Saban runs a pro-style offense that is extremely attractive to top high school players with dreams of playing on Sundays. And Saban is all-business, completely in control and demands excellence but does so in a very professional manner. Right now, it appears Nick Saban's tenure at Alabama may have limitless success.
Alabama aside, there was another big story from last night's BCS title game. Colt McCoy, a home-grown Texas talent with a decorated career, was injured on Texas' first possession and you got the feeling the Longhorns had no chance to win without him. I sympathize with Colt: he worked his entire career to get to that game and it was hard to watch him standing on the sidelines. But Mack Brown's team earned a ton of respect for the way they rebounded from the loss of their on-the-field and off-the-field leader. After a terrible second quarter in which they were outscored 24-0, Texas played with a purpose in the second half and had a chance to win the game late. You always learn a lot about a team when they appear to be down-and-out. The Longhorns showed tons of heart and Mack Brown proved to be a great motivator. Freshman quarterback Garrett Gilbert played admirably in place of McCoy and gained invaluable, albeit unexpected, experience. Although the "what if Colt did not get hurt" will always surround this game for Longhorn nation, Texas players should not hang their heads. In the words of Herm Edwards, "we can build on this!" The future is bright in Austin.

Check back later today for a complete breakdown of this weekend's NFL wildcard round.

The Breakfast Blend...the best part of waking up

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 16:00:00 +0000

By Willie Mullen

Quick Hits

It's been a while since my last posting and there have been a lot of interesting stories so here's my take on what's happened in the past 10 days:

Texas Tech fired coach Mike Leach after he reportedly stuffed a player in an electrical closet. This surfaced just a few weeks after Kansas fired then-coach Mark Mangino for being overly abusive to his players. What has gotten into college football coaches? Look, if you played sports growing up, you probably had a coach who was way too intense considering he was coaching something like 5th grade basketball. I'm sure some college coaches who have climbed through the ranks feel the only way to run a team through control and discipline. And there is nothing wrong with requiring your players to follow the rules. But when emotional or physical attacks are the source of a coaches power, a line must be drawn and I applaud both Kansas and Texas Tech for stepping in and handling the situations quickly and with decisive force.
I don't even know what to make of the Gilbert Arenas situation. When it comes to the NBA, there are apparently only two things that create problems between players: women and cards. The former needs no explanation. For the latter, card games and gambling are part of every NBA locker room and failing to make good on a bet is a good way to find yourself in trouble. Reports indicate Arenas owed teammate Javaris Crittenton some money from a card game and, when confronted by Crittenton, "Agent 0" pulled out three guns and a standoff ensued. While pulling guns on each other is ridiculous, the worst part of this situation is that it took place inside the Washington Wizards locker room, meaning they compromised the security of the entire arena and everyone inside. I hope David Stern chooses to suspend Arenas and Crittenton for the rest of the season, without pay. I also hope the Wizards release both players as a sign of goodwill to Wizards fans. I would not be surprised to see legal action be taken as well. There is absolutely no place for behavior like this anywhere, let alone a professional sports arena, and both men should pay a very steep price.
Bowl season has delivered some great games and individual performances. Tim Tebow ended his incredible career in impressive fashion and it should be interesting to see where he fits in at the next level. I loved Northwestern going for the win in overtime against Auburn. Maybe the play call left a little to be desired but Pat Fitzgerald showed guts and confidence and he has the program headed in a great direction. Ohio State quarterback Terrelle Pryor finally lived up to the great hype in a fantastic Rose Bowl performance, much to the delight of Big Ten and Buckeye fans alike. Ohio State has been mocked for their recent performances in BCS games but they answered the call in Pasadena and should enter next season as a top three team and serious title contender.

The NFL regular season has ended and there will be much more to come on both the season and the playoffs.

The Breakfast Blend...the best part of waking up

willie.mullen@gmail.com (Willie Mullen) — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 15:26:00 +0000

By Willie Mullen

The Playoff Picture

Here's my take on this morning's headlines:

NFC: This Monday morning feels a whole lot different than the previous 14. With losses by the Saints and Vikings, the gap that existed between those top two teams and the next three or four contenders in the NFC has seemingly closed. Three weeks ago, the NFC was appeared destined for a Minnesota-New Orleans championship game but after week 15, that is no longer the case. Sure, the Vikes and Saints will probably be the top two seeds in the playoffs. And they are still the best teams in the NFC, for now. But Philadelphia is on fire, having won five straight, and the Eagles offense is capable of scoring a lot of points on any defense. The Cowboys may have finally broken the curse of December and are dangerous without that monkey on their back. Arizona, despite some recent struggles, is back in the playoffs and it was just over 12 months ago that the Cardinals stormed through the conference and came within minutes of winning the Super Bowl. As far as the last playoff spot is concerned, the Packers are still in good position despite their last-second loss at Pittsburgh and they will be rooting hard for the Redskins to defeat the Giants tonight. If the Giants lose, the six teams will be virtually locked in the playoffs with only some positioning to settle. A Giants victory still leaves them hope of making a run. Either way, after this weekend's action, the NFC is a much tighter race than it was just a few weeks ago.
AFC: Meanwhile, the top two teams in the AFC (Indianapolis and San Diego) solidified their hold on those spots and are playing at extremely high levels. New England was the biggest winner on Sunday as the combination of their victory and losses by Miami and the Jets have virtually locked-up the AFC East. Cincinnati is still in good position to win the AFC North or at least make the playoffs in a worst case scenario. The Broncos and Ravens are both 8-6 and control their own destiny. Denver lost at home to the Raiders and have to travel to Philadelphia in week 16. They are in a dangerous spot of surprisingly missing the playoffs after a 6-0 start. The Ravens were also big winners as they were finally able to separate themselves from the pack. Now at 8-6, the Ravens control their own fate but a loss in the final two weeks will open the door for one of the six 7-7 teams to make the playoffs. It should be a great race for the last two spots in the AFC as multiple combinations involving five to six teams is possible. In a surprising twist, week 15 actually confused the playoff picture more than it clarified the road to the Super Bowl.